How Globalization Affects small businesses Essay

How Globalization Affects small businesses - Essay Example ization affecting the current experiences in small business venture?† The increasing changes in business climate are a possible result of globalization effect. Many small and medium enterprises are not able to realize how this phenomenon is influencing the business environment. â€Å"Have you noted any unexplained changes in competition, consumer behavior, price changes and business rules and regulations which are derived from the globalization?† Such an approach to discussing the issue of globalization will evoke the interest of the reader due to the sensitivity of the question in respect of the widespread startup firms and increasing competition in small and medium enterprise in this era of globalization (Friedlander, Edward and John 56). This journalism lead approach is more appropriate in the case of using pictures and diagram to make a visual appeal to the underlying issues being addressed (Ballenger 163-4). It serves the purpose of a visual impression and gives the reader an overview of the topic being addressed. This is a critical tool of captivating the attention of the reader through proper pictorial presentation and precise expression of ideas (Friedlander, Edward and John 61-6). From the picture above it can be noted that the increasing technological application in small businesses is a culmination of the rising competition in various industries. Cost reduction measure versus high quality output is a major goal of the profit oriented small enterprises operators. In this respect, non-price competitive strategies are at play and this sums up as a culmination of the globalization effect. To contain the gap between well-established multinational corporations and startup firms, information technology application provides a level ground for survival and this one aspect of globalization. In this case, the critical concepts of globalization and its effect on small business are addressed through visual presentation and the reader has grasped important facts

Dessler Chapter Essay Example for Free

Dessler Chapter Essay 1) Which Amendment to the U. S. Constitution states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law? A) First Amendment B) Fifth Amendment C) Tenth Amendment D) Thirteenth Amendment E) Fourteenth Amendment Answer: B Explanation: The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution (ratified in 1791) states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law. The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 2) The ________ Amendment to the U. S. Constitution outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. A) First B) Fifth C) Tenth D) Thirteenth E) Fourteenth Answer: D Explanation: The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution (ratified in 1791) states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 3) The 13th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution addresses the subject of ________. A) due process B) slavery C) private property D) trial by jury E) womens rights Answer: B Explanation: The 13th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution abolished slavery and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. The 5th Amendment addresses due process, and the 6th Amendment requires a trial by jury. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 4) The ________ gives all persons the same right to make and enforce contracts and to benefit from the laws of the land. A) Fifth Amendment B) Civil Rights Act of 1866 C) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act D) Civil Rights Act of 1991 E) Thirteenth Amendment Answer: B Explanation: The Civil Rights Act of 1866 gives all persons the same right to make and enforce contracts and to benefit from U. S. laws. The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution (ratified in 1791) states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law. The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act states that employers cannot discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 5) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act explicitly prohibits employers from discrimination based on all of the following characteristics EXCEPT ________. A) race B) religion C) color D) sexual orientation E) national origin Answer: D Explanation: Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act states that an employer cannot discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Title VII bars discrimination on the part of most employers both public and private with 15 or more employees. Sexual orientation is not directly addressed under the law. Diff: 1Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 6) According to Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which of the following employers would be legally allowed to refuse employment to an individual based on race, religion, or sex? A) a state agency with 65 employees B) a medical office with 25 employees C) a local restaurant with 10 employees D) a department store with 100 employees E) a public school with 30 employees Answer: C Explanation: Title VII bars discrimination on the part of most employers, including all public or private employers of 15 or more persons. It also covers all private and public educational institutions, the federal government, and state and local governments. A business with fewer than 15 employees would legally be allowed to refuse employment based on race, religion, sex, or national origin. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Application 7) Which legislation was responsible for the creation of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission? A) 13th Amendment B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Civil Rights Act of 1866 D) Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 E) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act Answer: E Explanation: Title VII established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to administer and enforce the Civil Rights law at work. The commission itself consists of five members appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate. Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 established the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 8) The EEOC was initially established to investigate complaints about ________. A) job discrimination B) unfair business practices C) sexual harassment in schools D) structural accommodations for disabled people E) overtime payments for labor union members Answer: A Explanation: Title VII established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to administer and enforce the Civil Rights law at work. The EEOC receives and investigates job discrimination complaints from aggrieved individuals. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 9) How many members serve on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission? A) 3 B) 5 C) 9 D) 10 E) 12 Answer: B Explanation: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) consists of five members appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate. Each member serves a 5-year term. Diff: 1Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 10) Which of the following appoints the members of the EEOC? A) U. S. Congress B) U. S. Supreme Court C) President of the United States D) Department of Justice E) American voters Answer: C Explanation: The EEOC consists of five members appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate. Each member serves a 5-year term. Diff: 1Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 11) Which of the following requires equal pay for equal work regardless of sex? A) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Executive Order 11246 D) Pay Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 E) Civil Rights Act of 1991 Answer: B Explanation: Under the Equal Pay Act of 1963 (amended in 1972), it is unlawful to discriminate in pay on the basis of sex when jobs involve equal work; require equivalent skills, effort, and responsibility; and are performed under similar working conditions. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 12) When companies utilize ________, they take steps to eliminate the present effects of past discrimination. A) affirmative action B) executive orders C) rehabilitation action D) civil rights guidelines E) equal pay rules Answer: A Explanation: Affirmative action refers to steps that are taken for the purpose of eliminating the present effects of past discrimination. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 requires employers to pay equal pay for equal work, and the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires employers with federal contracts of more than $2,500 to take affirmative action in employing disabled persons. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 13) Which of the following is responsible for implementing Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 that were issued by the Johnson administration? A) Equal Employment Opportunity Commission B) Pension Benefits Guarantee Corporation C) Occupational Safety and Health Administration D) National Labor Relations Board E) Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Answer: E Explanation: The Johnson administration (1963–1969) issued Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 which didnt just ban discrimination but also required that government contractors with contracts of over $50,000 and 50 or more employees take affirmative action to ensure employment opportunity for those who may have suffered past discrimination. These orders also established the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) to implement the orders and ensure compliance. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 14) Which of the following factors is NOT an acceptable basis for different pay for equal work under the Equal Pay Act of 1963? A) merit B) seniority C) gender D) production quality E) production quantity Answer: C Explanation: Under the Equal Pay Act of 1963 (amended in 1972), it is unlawful to discriminate in pay on the basis of sex when jobs involve equal work; require equivalent skills, effort, and responsibility; and are performed under similar working conditions. Pay differences derived from seniority systems, merit systems, and systems that measure earnings by production quantity or quality or from any factor other than sex do not violate the act. Diff: 2Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 15) Paul is a 49-year-old American of Anglo-Saxon descent. What legislation is most likely intended to protect Paul from discrimination? A) Executive Order 11375 B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Executive Order 11246 D) Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 E) Thirteenth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution Answer: D Explanation: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) made it unlawful to discriminate against employees or applicants who are between 40 and 65 years of age. Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 require government contractors to take affirmative action, the 13th Amendment barred slavery, and the Equal Pay Act made it unlawful to discriminate in pay based on the employees gender. Diff: 2Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Application 16) According to the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, it is unlawful to ________. A) sue an employer for age-based pay B) fire older employees for insubordination C) require employees to retire at age 65 D) allow juries to determine age discrimination E) institute a minimum age for employees Answer: C Explanation: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) made it unlawful to discriminate against employees or applicants who are between 40 and 65 years of age. Subsequent amendments eliminated the age cap, effectively ending most mandatory retirement at age 65. The ADEA allows jury trials. Diff: 2Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 17) The ________ requires certain federal contractors to take affirmative action for disabled persons. A) Equal Pay Act B) Vocational Rehabilitation Act C) Age Discrimination in Employment Act D) Americans with Disabilities Act E) Civil Rights Act Answer: B Explanation: The Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires employers with federal contracts of more than $2,500 to take affirmative action in employing disabled persons. It does not require hiring unqualified people. It does require an employer to take steps to accommodate a disabled worker unless doing so imposes an undue hardship on the employer, which is addressed by the ADA. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 18) Which of the following refers to highly recommended procedures issued by federal agencies regarding employee selection, record keeping, and preemployment inquiries? A) job specifications B) employment metrics C) process charts D) uniform guidelines E) applicant tracking systems Answer: D Explanation: Uniform guidelines are issued by federal agencies charged with ensuring compliance with equal employment federal legislation explaining recommended employer procedures in detail. They set forth highly recommended procedures regarding things like employee selection, record keeping, and preemployment inquiries. Diff: 1Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 19) Which of the following does NOT participate in the issuance of uniform guidelines? A) EEOC B) Department of Labor C) Better Business Bureau D) Department of Justice E) Civil Service Commission Answer: C Explanation: The EEOC, Civil Service Commission, Department of Labor, and Department of Justice together issued uniform guidelines. These set forth highly recommended procedures regarding things like employee selection, record keeping, and preemployment inquiries. The Better Business Bureau is not involved in issuing uniform guidelines. Diff: 1Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 20) Uniform guidelines from the EEOC are recommended for employers to use in matters regarding all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) employee selection B) record keeping C) preemployment inquiries D) sexual harassment E) psychological testing Answer: E Explanation: The EEOC, Civil Service Commission, Department of Labor, and Department of Justice together issue uniform guidelines. These set forth highly recommended procedures regarding things like employee selection, record keeping, sexual harassment, and preemployment inquiries. The American Psychological Association has its own non-legally binding Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Diff: 2Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 21) Which Supreme Court case was used to define unfair discrimination in conjunction with EEO laws? A) Buckley v. Valeo B) Brown v. Board of Education C) Griggs v. Duke Power Company D) West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish E) Abington School District v. Schempp Answer: C Explanation: Griggs v. Duke Power Company was a landmark Supreme Court case used to define unfair discrimination as put forth in EEO laws such as Title VII. The Court ruled that employment practices must be job related and that discrimination does not have to be overt to be illegal. Brown v. Board of Education held that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Choices A, D, and E were not cases related to EEO laws. Diff: 2Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 22) In Griggs v. Duke Power Company, Griggs sued the power company because it required coal handlers to be high school graduates. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Griggs because ________. A) high school diplomas were not related to success as a coal handler B) Duke Power Company intentionally discriminated based on race C) no business necessity existed for Duke Power Company D) Title VII forbids job testing E) Griggs held a GED Answer: A Explanation: The Court ruled in favor of Griggs because having a high school diploma was not relevant to the job of coal handler. The Court held that an employment practice must be job related if it has an unequal impact on members of a protected class. Diff: 2Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 23) If a person is in a protected class, he or she is protected by which of the following? A) Department of Labor guidelines B) Sarbanes-Oxley Act C) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act D) Consumer Protection Act E) National Labor Relations Board Answer: C Explanation: The term protected class refers to persons such as minorities and women who are protected by equal opportunity laws, including Title VII. Choices A, B, D, and E are not equal opportunity laws. Diff: 1Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 24) All of the following are principles established by Griggs v. Duke Power Company EXCEPT ________. A) burden of proof is on the employer B) performance standards should be unambiguous C) business necessity is a defense for an existing program D) employment selection practices must be job related E) discrimination does not have to be overt to be illegal Answer: B Explanation: The Court ruled in Griggs v. Duke Power Company that the burden of proof is on the employer to show that a hiring practice such as testing is job related. The Court also ruled that business necessity is the defense for any existing program that has adverse impact and that discrimination does not have to be overt to be illegal. The case did not address performance standards. Diff: 3Page Ref: 34-35 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 25) Under the principles established by Griggs v. Duke Power Company, ________ can be used as a defense for any existing program that has adverse impact. A) occupational qualification B) business necessity C) affirmative action D) burden of proof E) fair in form Answer: B Explanation: Business necessity is the defense for any existing program that has adverse impact according to Griggs. The court did not define business necessity. Diff: 2Page Ref: 35 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 26) Which court case provided details regarding how employers could validate the relationship between screening tools and job performance? A) West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish B) Albemarle Paper Company v. Moody C) Griggs v. Duke Power Company D) Burlington Industries v. Ellerth E) Ward Cove v. Atonio Answer: B Explanation: In the Albemarle case, the Court provided more details on how employers could prove that tests or other screening tools relate to job performance. For example, the Court said that if an employer wants to test candidates for a job, then the employer should first clearly document and understand the jobs duties and responsibilities. Diff: 2Page Ref: 35 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 27) Under the Civil Rights Act of 1991, once a plaintiff shows disparate impact, who has the burden of proving that the challenged practice is job related? A) plaintiff B) employee C) employer D) judge E) EEOC Answer: C Explanation: According to the Civil Rights Act of 1991, once an aggrieved applicant or employee demonstrates that an employment practice (such as must lift 100 pounds) has a disparate (or adverse) impact on a particular group, then the burden of proof shifts to the employer, who must show that the challenged practice is job related. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 28) According to the Civil Rights Act of 1991, an employee who claims intentional discrimination can sue for all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) back pay B) job reinstatement C) punitive damages D) compensatory damages E) substantive consolidation Answer: E Explanation: According to the Civil Rights Act of 1991, an employee who claims intentional discrimination can sue for back pay, attorneys fees, court costs, job reinstatement, punitive damages, and compensatory damages. Substantive consolidation is a legal term referring to debt consolidation. Diff: 2Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 29) Race, color, religion, sex, or national origin is a motivating factor in a termination, but the employee would have been terminated for failure to perform anyway. Which of the following most likely exists in this situation? A) mixed motive B) business necessity C) disparate impact D) liability defense E) burden of proof Answer: A Explanation: An unlawful employment practice is established when the complaining party demonstrates that race, color, religion, sex, or national origin was a motivating factor for any employment practice, even though other factors also motivated the practice. Some employers in so-called mixed motive cases had taken the position that even though their actions were discriminatory, other factors like the employees dubious behavior made the job action acceptable. Under CRA 1991, an employer cannot avoid liability by proving it would have taken the same action—such as terminating someone—even without the discriminatory motive. Diff: 3Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Application 30) Which of the following requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for disabled employees? A) Civil Rights Act of 1991 B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 D) Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 E) Disability Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 Answer: C Explanation: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 prohibits employment discrimination against qualified disabled individuals. It also says employers must make reasonable accommodations for physical or mental limitations unless doing so imposes an undue hardship on the business. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 31) According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which of the following would be considered a disability? A) homosexuality B) voyeurism C) pyromania D) compulsive gambling E) AIDS Answer: E Explanation: The ADA specifies conditions that it does not regard as disabilities, including homosexuality, bisexuality, voyeurism, compulsive gambling, pyromania, and certain disorders resulting from the current illegal use of drugs. The EEOCs position is that the ADA prohibits discriminating against people with HIV/AIDS. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 32) Which type of disability accounts for the greatest number of ADA claims? A) drug-related B) cosmetic C) mental D) vision E) hearing Answer: C Explanation: Mental disabilities account for the greatest number of ADA claims. Under EEOC ADA guidelines, mental impairment includes any mental or psychological disorder, such as . . . emotional or mental illness. Drug-related conditions are generally not regarded as disabilities. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 33) Under ADA, those who can carry out the essential functions of the job are known as which of the following? A) protected class B) line managers C) career anchors D) staff authorities E) qualified individuals Answer: E Explanation: The ADA prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals—those who, with (or without) a reasonable accommodation, can carry out the essential functions of the job. The individual must have the requisite skills, educational background, and experience to do the job. Diff: 1Page Ref: 37 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 34) Which of the following best explains why employers win the majority of ADA cases? A) Employers make the necessary reasonable accommodations for employees. B) Employers prove that age negatively impacts an employees job performance. C) Employees fail to prove that they are disabled yet qualified to perform a job. D) Conservative judges are sympathetic towards small-business owners. E) Employee attorneys fail to draw connections between Title VII and ADA. Answer: C Explanation: Employers traditionally prevailed in almost all—96%—federal circuit court ADA decisions. A main reason is that employees were failing to show that they were disabled and qualified to do the job. Unlike with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the employee must establish that he or she has a disability that fits under the ADA. Diff: 3Page Ref: 38 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 35) Which of the following will be the most likely result of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008? A) Employees will find it easier to prove that their disabilities are limiting. B) The number of major life activities considered disabilities will be narrowed. C) Employers will be required to make fewer accommodations for workers with disabilities. D) Employers will be required to hire a specific percentage of disabled workers to be in compliance. E) Employees will apply for more jobs knowing that the legislation guarantees their employment. Answer: A Explanation: The new ADAAs basic effect will be to make it much easier for employees to show that their disabilities are limiting. For example, the new act makes it easier for an employee to show that his or her disability is influencing one of the employees major life activities. It does this by adding examples like reading, concentrating, thinking, sleeping, and communicating to the list of ADA major life activities. Diff: 3Page Ref: 38 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 36) In which of the following situations does sexual harassment NOT violate Title VII? A) if the conduct substantially interferes with a persons work performance B) if the conduct creates an intimidating work environment C) if the conduct creates a hostile work environment D) if the conduct is motivated by both age and gender E) if the conduct creates an offensive work environment Answer: D Explanation: Under Title VII, sexual harassment generally refers to harassment on the basis of sex when such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with a persons work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Sexual harassment violates Title VII. The motivation behind the conduct is not relevant to Title VII violations. Diff: 3Page Ref: 39 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 37) The ________ provides that a person who commits a crime of violence motivated by gender shall be liable to the party injured. A) Civil Rights Act of 1991 B) Federal Violence Against Women Act of 1994 C) Pregnancy Discrimination Act D) Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 E) Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Answer: B Explanation: The Federal Violence Against Women Act of 1994 provides that a person who commits a crime of violence motivated by gender shall be liable to the party injured. The law offers an additional path women can use to seek relief for violent sexual harassment. Diff: 1Page Ref: 40 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 38) Which of the following is NOT a form of sexual harassment according to EEOC guidelines? A) unwelcome sexual advances that create an intimidating work environment B) requests for sexual favors made implicitly as a condition of employment C) verbal conduct of a sexual nature that unreasonably interferes with work performance D) physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates an offensive work environment E) mutually consensual physical conduct of a sexual nature between co-workers Answer: E Explanation: EEOC guidelines define sexual harassment as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment or interfere with work performance. Requests for sexual favors that are used as the basis for employment decisions are also considered sexual harassment. Consensual sex between co-workers is not considered sexual harassment. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 39) All of the following are ways for an employee to prove sexual harassment EXCEPT by proving that ________. A) the verbal remarks of a co-worker were sexually flirtatious B) the rejection of a supervisors sexual advances led to a demotion C) a hostile work environment was created by a co-workers sexual conversation D) a hostile work environment was created by a nonemployees sexual advances E) a hostile work environment was created by a supervisors sexually abusive conduct Answer: A Explanation: The U. S. Supreme Court held that sexual harassment law doesnt cover ordinary intersexual flirtation. Someone can prove sexual harassment if rejecting a supervisors sexual advances led to a demotion, firing, or altered work assignment. Sexual harassment can also be proven if a hostile work environment is created by the sexual conduct of supervisors, co-workers, or nonemployees. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Application 40) Judy was up for a promotion at Simpson Consulting when her supervisor, Will, encouraged her to develop a sexual relationship with him. He suggested that her promotion would be a sure thing if they were involved. When Judy declined his advances, Will fired her. Which of the following would Judy most likely be able to prove in court if she decided to sue Simpson Consulting? A) hostile environment created by nonemployees B) hostile environment created by supervisors C) hostile environment created by co-workers D) disparate treatment E) quid pro quo Answer: E Explanation: Quid pro quo (something for something) is the most direct way to prove that rejecting a supervisors advances adversely affected what the EEOC calls a tangible employment action such as hiring, firing, promotion, demotion, and/or work assignment. Quid pro quo would be the best option for Judy if she sues the firm for Wills actions. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Application 41) Gus is always making sexual jokes at work. Many employees find the jokes funny, but Shelley, Guss executive assistant, is uncomfortable with the jokes. Eventually, she decides to quit her job rather than endure the jokes any longer. What form of sexual harassment has Shelley experienced? A) quid pro quo B) hostile environment created by supervisors C) hostile environment created by co-workers D) hostile environment created by nonemployees E) none of the above; Shelley is not a victim of sexual harassment Answer: B Explanation: As Shelleys supervisor, Gus created a hostile environment according to the EEOC. A claimant does not need to show that the harassment had tangible consequences such as demotion. It is sufficient in many cases to prove that a supervisors sexual harassment substantially affected an employees emotional and psychological abilities. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Application 42) All of the following are ways that an employer can minimize liability in sexual harassment claims EXCEPT ________. A) maintaining thorough records of all sexual harassment complaints B) informing all employees about sexual harassment investigations C) instituting a sexual harassment reporting process D) training employees in sexual harassment policies E) investigating sexual harassment charges promptly Answer: B Explanation: Maintaining records of complaints, instituting a reporting policy, providing sexual harassment training, and investigating charges quickly are ways that employers can show that they took reasonable care to prevent and correct sexual harassment, which will minimize the employers liability. Sexual harassment investigations should be conducted privately, and the information should not be made available to all employees. Diff: 3Page Ref: 42 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 43) Sanders Sporting Goods, an international sporting goods chain, is being sued for sexual harassment by a former Sanders employee. The plaintiff asserts that she was the victim of numerous unwanted sexual advances from a male co-worker. The woman claims that Sanders management condoned a hostile work environment and that the company is liable for the actions of the male employee. Which of the following, if true, would best support the plaintiffs argument that Sanders is liable for sexual harassment? A) Sanders re-published its sexual harassment policy twice within the last year. B) The HR department at Sanders has records of the plaintiffs initial complaints. C) Exit interviews of outgoing Sanders employees include questions about sexual harassment. D) Sanders lacks a management response system for handling sexual harassment complaints. E) Sanders recently lost a court case filed by former employees who claimed disparate treatment. Answer: D Explanation: Employers can minimize their liability in sexual harassment claims by showing that they have a response system set up for handling sexual harassment complaints, so Sanders may be liable if it lacks a system. Firms that re-publish their sexual harassment policies frequently, keep thorough records of complaints, and address sexual harassment issues during exit interviews are able to show that they took reasonable care to prevent sexual harassment. Disparate treatment refers to discrimination claims rather than sexual harassment claims. Diff: 3Page Ref: 42 AACSB: Reflective Thinking Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Critical Thinking 44) Sanders Sporting Goods, an international sporting goods chain, is being sued for sexual harassment by a former Sanders employee. The plaintiff asserts that she was the victim of numerous unwanted sexual advances from a male co-worker. The woman claims that Sanders management condoned a hostile work environment and that the company is liable for the actions of the male employee. Which of the following, if true, would most likely undermine the plaintiffs claim that Sanders is liable for the male employees conduct? A) The male employee physically threatened the plaintiff on three occasions. B) The male employee made sexual advances towards the plaintiff on a daily basis. C) The male employee was required by HR to participate in a sexual harassment awareness course. D) The male employees conduct significantly interfered with the plaintiffs ability to perform her job. E) The plaintiff discussed her concerns about the male employees conduct with female co-workers. Answer: C Explanation: If the male employee was required to take a sexual harassment course, then that action shows Sanders was making a reasonable attempt to stop the behavior. Choices A, B, and D support the plaintiffs claim that ther

Disrespect in The Sailor who Fell From Grace with the Sea and Wonderful

Disrespect in The Sailor who Fell From Grace with the Sea and Wonderful Fool   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Throughout various works of world literature, respect is a major concern amongst the characters. This manifests itself in how the relationships between characters in the work are characterized. Sometimes lack of proper respect can be an auxiliary cause for conflict, while in other cases it can be the root of it. In Japanese culture, respect is considered very important in the relationships between different people; for example, it is customary to bow to one's elders and respect those of superior knowledge and ability. Failure to show such respect is taken offensively and considered extremely disrespectful. This important concept of disrespect is quite prevalent in both The Sailor who Fell From Grace with the Sea and Wonderful Fool, where the relationship characterization of the two main characters reflect this idea through the conflicts. In the former, Ryuji shows disrespect by patronizing Noboru, which causes conflict; in the latter, Gaston's lack o f response to the gangster Endo's disrespect is an auxiliary cause to the main conflict between them.    In Yukio Mishima's The Sailor who Fell From Grace with the Sea, Noboru has a very high opinion of his intellectual acumen. "At thirteen, Noboru was convinced of his own genius (each of the others in the gang felt the same way) . . ." (Mishima 8). Noboru, along with the other members of his gang, view themselves to be mature and intelligent. They believe that societal hierarchy restricts their intellect. They feel it to be their "special privilege" and that "[the gang members] are the ones who do the permitting . Teachers, schools, fathers, society - we permit all tho... ...ren are susceptible to this sort of flattery, and like it. However, since Noboru views himself as the farthest thing from a child, he is deeply offended; he views this patronization as disrespect. In Wonderful Fool, Gaston's unresponsiveness to Endo's disrespect becomes a secondary cause to the main conflict between them. Endo does not want Gaston around because to him Gaston represents sentimentality; therefore Endo tries to get rid of him by verbally berating him and at one point striking him. These conflicts resolve in different manners, however this concept of disrespect is a contributing factor to those conflicts and provoke the antagonism of each work.    Works Cited Endo, Shusaku. Wonderful Fool. London: Peter Owen Publishers, 1995. Mishima, Yukio. The Sailor Who Fell From Grace with the Sea. New York: Vintage International, 1993.   

Mountain man brewing company case study solutions Essay

Radico Khaitan’s young and enthusiastic sales force services retail outlets across the country, understanding requirements and fulfilling them, thereby developing enduring relationships. The Sales team comprises professionals with vast domain expertise, years of experience in the liquor industry and a deep understanding of varied markets. Support Services The MIS & IT Department leverages technology to help Radico Khaitan gain a competitive edge. Radico Khaitan was among the first companies in the liquor industry to implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), using SAP, to streamline processes, optimize workflow management, manage inventories and reduce costs. The ready availability of reporting information has facilitated more efficient decision-making and improved customer management. Accounts & Finance Services Radico Khaitan Ltd has been continuously showing growth over previous years and registering healthy profits. This has been made possible through the steps taken by the Finance department like bringing down the cost of borrowings substantially.The Efforts of the finance department has made Radico one of the best prospects for timely repayment of debts and providing the highest safety of funds for lenders. The department also has excellent financial management with strong fundamentals in the short and medium term. Marketing Services In the short span of time, Radico Khaitan has been able to make the transition from being a manufacturer of Extra Neutral Alcohol to being a company with a portfolio of hugely successful brands. Our understanding of market demands and ability to satisfy consumer needs has been responsible for this. Consistently superior quality, a wide range of products, innovative packaging, pricing to suit all pockets, a nation-wide distribution network that covers 95% of retail points, clubs and bars in the country, effective advertising, and popular events and promotions. Other Products & Services Enterprise Resource Planning(ERP) Services 2. Objectives To understand the problems faced by the company before implementation of ERP and the process of ERP system implementation. In addition to this, analysis of the present ERP and suggestion of some improvements. 3. Methodology We would study the different processes in the company and then we will study the problems faced by company before implementing ERP. Prepare the questionnaire to collect data from the company and study the solutions given by the SAP consultant. 3.1.Need For ERP Improve alignment of strategies and operations Improve productivity and insight. Reduce costs through increased flexibility. Support changing industry requirements – Take advantage of the SAP Web-based technology to integrate your end-to-end processes seamlessly. Improve financial management and corporate governance – Gain deep visibility into with financial and management accounting functionality combined with business analytics. Gain higher ROI faster – Install SAP ERP using rapid-implementation techniques that cost less than half what traditional approaches cost. Provide immediate access to enterprise information – Give employees new ways to access the enterprise information required for their daily activities.

Komatsu Case Study Essay

1. How was Komatsu able to evolve from a $169 million company with low-quality products to become a real challenge to Caterpillar by the early 1980s? How would you evaluate Mr. Kawai’s performance? The long-term vision of â€Å"catch up and surpass CAT† opened up different product offerings and the extension of the Komatsu market. Initiating Total Quality Control (TQC) helped to develop a strategy to acquire and develop advanced technology. Project A also sought to raise the quality to match CAT’s levels, which marked the beginning of the Plan Do Check Act (PDAC) cycle. Kawai’s performance and policies to make Komatsu internationally competitive in cost and quality leads me to think he did a great job in his role. The company was growing in sales and increasing quality and cost, actually making CAT nervous about competing with Komatsu. 2. Why did performance deteriorate so rapidly in the mid-1980s? What grade would you give to Mr. Nogawa’s term as CEO? 1982 marked the beginning of an era of falling demand, worldwide price wars, a rapid appreciating yen, and heightened trade frictions throughout the industry. Nogawa also focused more on cost cutting and aggressive sales tactics than he did on internationalization or the stagnating construction industry. I don’t think Nogawa was a great CEO because he ignored focusing on improving the company and instead tried to cut too man costs risking quality and holding the business back during his term as CEO. 3. How appropriately did Mr. Tanaka deal with the problems he inherited? What is your evaluation of his brief tenure as CEO? I believe Tanaka dealt with the issues pretty well with a good strategy to get away from overall growth and focusing on profits. Although his strategy was well planned, Tanaka lacked the leadership that would have made him more successful. He did well in terms of profit, but failed to compete on market share against CAT, as had been the norm of his predecessors. 4. How effectively did Mr. Katada take charge? How would you assess his new vision for the company? His new strategy? His new cultural and behavioral objectives? What grade would you give him for his performance? Katada effectively took charge and was able to return to good performance and connect his strategy with his management style. Katada’s new vision for the company, including new company goals and culture, affected the entire company but because of his long-term commitment with Komatsu, employees were accepting and trusting of the changes he made. Katada changed with the times and the industry, putting Komatsu back into competition with CAT. Katada focused on active participation with all employees instead of a top-down directive approach. Employees, at all levels, were encouraged to bring ideas to management and be actively involved in the vision, path, and overall success of the company.

Free Essays on The Problem Of Evil In Macbeth

Decisions are sometimes hard to make, but they have to be made everyday. People often tend to put pressure on others to force them to make the wrong decisions. In Macbeth’s case, Lady Macbeth and the three witches are highly responsible for the evil acts done by Macbeth. By forcing him to make the wrong choices, Lady Macbeth and these three witches put Macbeth’s life and leadership at stake. In Macbeth, there is a sequence of events that begins with good news for Macbeth but ends in tragedy due to the evilness of Lady Macbeth and the witches. The three witches start the chain of events that lead to the downfall of Macbeth. August Wilhelm Shlegel says, â€Å"†¦They (the witches) are ignoble instruments of hell† (959). William Hazlitt agrees with him by saying, â€Å"†¦The witches are instrumental in urging Macbeth to his fate for the mere love of mischief and from a disinterested delight in deformity and cruelty† (962). During the time in which Macbeth takes place, it was against the law to consult any evil or cursed spirit. If a person was caught consulting a spirit, that person could be killed. Therefore, it is hard to understand why Macbeth listens to these witches, knowing he could be executed if he is caught. Shlegel states, â€Å"The weird sisters surprise Macbeth in the moment of intoxication of victory when his love of glory has been gratified; they cheat his eyes by exhibiting to him as the work of fate† (959). When Lady Macbeth finds out about the prophecy that states Macbeth will become king, she believes that she and Macbeth should kill King Duncan. However, Macbeth feels there is no reason to kill this man just to expedite the time in which he is crowned king or to make certain he is crowned king. King Duncan is a friend, a good man, and a good king. Macbeth feels it is ludicrous to commit this heinous act of treachery. Macbeth says, "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me without my stir"(Shakespear... Free Essays on The Problem Of Evil In Macbeth Free Essays on The Problem Of Evil In Macbeth Decisions are sometimes hard to make, but they have to be made everyday. People often tend to put pressure on others to force them to make the wrong decisions. In Macbeth’s case, Lady Macbeth and the three witches are highly responsible for the evil acts done by Macbeth. By forcing him to make the wrong choices, Lady Macbeth and these three witches put Macbeth’s life and leadership at stake. In Macbeth, there is a sequence of events that begins with good news for Macbeth but ends in tragedy due to the evilness of Lady Macbeth and the witches. The three witches start the chain of events that lead to the downfall of Macbeth. August Wilhelm Shlegel says, â€Å"†¦They (the witches) are ignoble instruments of hell† (959). William Hazlitt agrees with him by saying, â€Å"†¦The witches are instrumental in urging Macbeth to his fate for the mere love of mischief and from a disinterested delight in deformity and cruelty† (962). During the time in which Macbeth takes place, it was against the law to consult any evil or cursed spirit. If a person was caught consulting a spirit, that person could be killed. Therefore, it is hard to understand why Macbeth listens to these witches, knowing he could be executed if he is caught. Shlegel states, â€Å"The weird sisters surprise Macbeth in the moment of intoxication of victory when his love of glory has been gratified; they cheat his eyes by exhibiting to him as the work of fate† (959). When Lady Macbeth finds out about the prophecy that states Macbeth will become king, she believes that she and Macbeth should kill King Duncan. However, Macbeth feels there is no reason to kill this man just to expedite the time in which he is crowned king or to make certain he is crowned king. King Duncan is a friend, a good man, and a good king. Macbeth feels it is ludicrous to commit this heinous act of treachery. Macbeth says, "If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me without my stir"(Shakespear...

Four Dimensions of Human Resource Management Practice Essays

Four Dimensions of Human Resource Management Practice Essays Four Dimensions of Human Resource Management Practice Essay Four Dimensions of Human Resource Management Practice Essay Human resource environment is a great factor which can directly affects employees morale and productivity if not properly managed. After internal and external environmental factors are well taken care of, employee can concentrate on their task at hand. A positive and friendly environment makes work more enjoyable for the employee and it help to develop sense of belonging to the organization. Areas of the management of human resource environment includes Strategic human resource management which combined human resource practices with organizations business policies to helps the organization to achieve its goal. It involves a pattern of planned human resource deployment and activity which can improved the organizations productivity. Next, we need to ensure that the organizations human resources management practices are complied with federal, states and countrys law. As the organization is set-up for business. Policies are being developed to support its operations. We need to determined if these policies are legal with the legislative and regulatory agencies of the country. This is critical to the organization as legal issues can affects organizations operation and become a burden to organizations success and survival. Lastly, we look at design and review of jobs that can motivates and satisfies the employee and therefore, increasing productivity and maximizes customer service with better quality of work. With motivated and satisfied employee, there will not be much changes of the companys human resource as people are happy with their work and unlikely to leave the organization. : This result in a reduction in resources need to train new employee annually. Acquiring and preparing human resources As customer needs for new product and services, organizations need to forecast the number of employees need and type of workers that meets the demand. Organization have to measure its present human resources configuration and relates it to future demand. Base on its knowledge of the workers personality, organizations need to decide on termination of service for unproductive employee, promotion and also plan for employees retirement. Getting the right people to replace them can be quite challenging task. This area includes recruitment, employee selection, human resource planning and training for workers to perform their task. They have to keep a lookout for potential individual who are able to deliver what customer wants. It is important to minimize errors in selection and placement of employee as it affects the organization ability to compete with rivals and also the applicants life. Employee will not do well in wrong area of job scope allocated and will in future become a burden to the company and effects ones social life. Training helps employee to develop skills which is need to perform for task base on organization requirement. As the employee can do his job well, he will become positive and motivated to make more contribution for the company and therefore, improve productivity. Assessment and development of human resources Managers and employee have the necessary skills to perform current job and to develop new skills to be able to cope with future assignment as more advance method of operation and technology have been introduced to the organization. In this area of human resources management, we need to measure the employees performance in term of weakness and strength and plan necessary development for them. Preparing the employee for future work roles and resolve any issue that is affecting them in work. We also need to ensure that employee have the competencies necessary for the task for organizations present and future operation. Educating employee with organizations long term goals and values in the industry. Develop interest for employee to work for the organization, creating a relationship between the organization and the employee. Justification for productive employee by promotion and bonus will retain them from competitors. Discipline and layoff unproductive employee as they are obstructive to organization progress and fellow employee. The objective is to achieve an ideal employment relationship and working environment that will benefit both the company and employee. Compensating human resources Pay and benefits are used to reward employees contribution to the company and also to attracts new workers. Other than interests in work, the next incentives that workers look forward to is pay and benefit. Positive influence on new work design, new technology and quality demands on production can be damaged if employee are compensated unfairly. This area of human resources management includes creating of a good pay system, reward employee contributions and provide them with benefits for working in the company. Using salary and benefits to recognize and reward employee base on performance, seniority and skills will helps to retain experience and productive personnel. Frequent change of employee will result in a slow down in companys operation as they are lack of experience and cohesiveness.

Introduction to the Periodic Table of Elements

Introduction to the Periodic Table of Elements Dmitri Mendeleev published the first periodic table in 1869. He showed that when the elements were ordered according to atomic weight, a pattern resulted where similar properties for elements recurred periodically. Based on the work of physicist Henry Moseley, the periodic table was reorganized on the basis of increasing atomic number rather than on atomic weight. The revised table could be used to predict the properties of elements that had yet to be discovered. Many of these predictions were later substantiated through experimentation. This led to the formulation of the periodic law, which states that the chemical properties of the elements are dependent on their atomic numbers. Organization of the Periodic Table The periodic table lists elements by atomic number, which is the number of protons in every atom of that element.  Atoms of an atomic number  may have varying numbers of neutrons (isotopes) and electrons (ions), yet remain the same chemical element. Elements in the periodic table are arranged in periods (rows) and groups (columns). Each of the seven periods is filled sequentially by atomic number. Groups include elements having the same electron configuration in their outer shell, which results in group elements sharing similar chemical properties. The electrons in the outer shell are termed valence electrons. Valence electrons determine the properties and chemical reactivity of the element and participate in chemical bonding. The Roman numerals found above each group specify the usual number of valence electrons. There are two sets of groups. The group A elements are the representative elements, which have s or p sublevels as their outer orbitals. The group B elements are the nonrepresentative elements, which have partly filled d sublevels (the transition elements) or partly filled f sublevels (the lanthanide series and the actinide series). The Roman numeral and letter designations give the electron configuration for the valence electrons (e.g., the valence electron configuration of a group VA element will be s2p3 with 5 valence electrons). Another way to categorize elements is according to whether they behave as metals or nonmetals. Most elements are metals. They are found on the lefthand side of the table. The far right side contains the nonmetals, plus hydrogen displays nonmetal characteristics under ordinary conditions. Elements that have some properties of metals and some properties of nonmetals are called metalloids or semimetals. These elements are found along a zig-zag line that runs from the upper left of group 13 to the bottom right of group 16. Metals are generally good conductors of heat and electricity, are malleable and ductile, and have a lustrous metallic appearance. In contrast, most nonmetals are poor conductors of heat and electricity, tend to be brittle solids, and can assume any of a number of physical forms. While all of the metals except mercury are solid under ordinary conditions, nonmetals may be solids, liquids, or gases at room temperature and pressure. Elements may be further subdivided into groups. Groups of metals include the alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, basic metals, lanthanides, and actinides. Groups of nonmetals include the nonmetals, halogens, and noble gases. Periodic Table Trends The organization of the periodic table leads to recurring properties or periodic table trends. These properties and their trends are: Ionization Energy - energy needed to remove an electron from a gaseous atom or ion. Ionization energy increases moving left to right and decreases moving down an element group (column).Electronegativity - how likely an atom is to form a chemical bond. Electronegativity increases moving left to right and decreases moving down a group. The noble gases are an exception, with an electronegativity approaching zero.Atomic Radius (and Ionic Radius) - a measure of the size of an atom. Atomic and ionic radius decreases moving left to right across a row (period) and increases moving down a group.Electron Affinity - how readily an atom accepts an electron. Electron affinity increases moving across a period and decreases moving down a group. Electron affinity is nearly zero for noble gases.

Bush Administration and sanctions on policy of torture on detainees Research Paper

Bush Administration and sanctions on policy of torture on detainees - Research Paper Example 7 6. Conclusion†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 7 7. Works Cited†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 8 Torture is an unquestionable crime and cannot be justified with any rationale, no matter how reasonable it may sound. Torture is prohibited by all civilized societies and both the US and International laws hold it in strict abhorrence. According to the US as well as International laws, those convicted of assault and tortures are liable to be punished. The US code lays out strict rules on torture and all other acts that come under its purview, with clear orders on the punishments and penalties that should be meted out to its violators. In spite of such regulations, it is alleged that the US administration under the presidency of George W. Bush, indulged in torturing detainees alleged for terrorism and other crimes. The entire world expressed outrage over such US policies, blaming them to be the reason behind the increased insurgence of terrorism and the lack of support from allies, however, it is surprising to note that many others justified it as being legal and the need of the hour. The Bush Administration refuted all such claims, saying that no such policies on torture of detainees were sanctioned, but the piling list of evidences against it speaks otherwise. This calls for a formal inquiry by the Obama Administration as well as the US Justice Department into all the policies sanctioned under the Bush Administration. If President Bush and all the other policy makers are convicted of resorting to torture, they must be brought to book and should be penalized with full justification to the US penal code, failing which wou ld be the greatest failure of law and order in our times. According to the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Third and Fourth Geneva Conventions, the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, torture is a punishable act and the violators of these are bound to be penalized. Accordingly, the Bush Administration is punishable by law, as its secret policies on torture are not secret anymore. Tortures under the Bush administration According to Taylor1, the US government recognized all the international conventions against torture. Nevertheless, the Bush administration secretly sanctioned torture methods for the interrogation of detainees of its â€Å"War on terror† post September 11. It justified such acts as being legal and â€Å"morally permissible†, when they became known in public. The Bush administration sanctioned water boarding, forced nudity, slee p deprivation, temperature extremes, stress position and prolonged isolation as "safe, legal, ethical, and effective" enhanced interrogation techniques which were previously considered torture and forbidden by the United Nations Committee Against Torture1. Torture became a state policy of the United States under Bush administration wherein prisoners of War on Terror were tortured as a matter of policy and practice at Abu Ghraib prison by American troops as well as more experienced torturers (Masciulli, Molchanov and Knight 349). According to news reports, President Bush had authorized the use of waterboarding2 and other inhumane tortures against criminals in its war on terror. Innumerable evidences of torture are

Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 7

Management - Assignment Example The company also has strong marketing and advertising capabilities; it spends its advertising money more efficiently that its rivals are thereby getting greater returns in terms of revenue and product awareness (Böhm, 58). Such strong marketing and advertising capabilities have provided the company with a competitive advantage in the market than its closest rival. The market share of the company I likely to increased due to increased demand for glass products, necessitated by rising need for scientific research as well as education. The company, therefore, should aim at increasing its productivity to meet that demand. This will help  the  R&H Filter Company to use the opportunity as a competitive advantage. The R&H Filter Company mostly used waste glasses as raw materials; it recycles glass products. The company has a positive attitude towards green environment, which has offered it a positive public image. It has been seen as conserving and preserving the environment. Therefore, a new wave for stricter regulations regarding emission of CO2 and carbon monoxide would positively affect the company. The company should put the rapid changes in technology into use to develop high-quality and innovative products so as to be able to tackle the intense competition in glass products. Even though, the company’s high investment in research and development lead to high revenue volumes, The R&H Filter Company still has a high cost structure, the costs are driven by their generous employee compensation, benefits and pension plans (Ferrell and Michael,

Discuss the socio-economic, philosophic and theological bases for the Essay

Discuss the socio-economic, philosophic and theological bases for the status of women in the middle ages - Essay Example The middle ages run from 1066 through 1485. The lives of women during these times were dependent on their roles and social status. It was a societal expectation that all women were subservient to men in their families and society. Women were required to serve and please men. The middle ages era was a male dominated one. The women were completely dominated by the men in their families. It was required of women to instantly obey their fathers, brothers and all other males in the family. Socially, women had no say over any matter. Any girl who dared to be unruly was beaten and forced into submission. In fact, disobedience was seen as a serious crime. The freedoms and entitlements for women and girls were grossly abused, suppressed or ignored in many places (Gordon, 2002). Economically, women were the least empowered humans. The English common law of the 12th century required that a wife submits all the property owned by her to her husband when she is married. All her property became the possession of her husband. Women’s wages and real estate were controlled by their husbands once they got married. In some regions, they were not even allowed to work outside their homes. They only remained at home to serve the males in their families. ... Women later on began to challenge this and demand for their property rights. Socially, women were not allowed to engage in politics or hold leadership position unless the belonged to royal families. Leadership and politics were male dominated. No woman could be allowed to stand against a man for leadership positions. Initially, women were also not allowed to vote or participate in making laws. According to ancient Roman law for example, women could only be citizens. They were not allowed to vote or run for political office. The women had no political freedom in their society. Women had no power to exercise their birth control rights like the contemporary woman. The number of children that a woman would bear would all depend on the choice made by their husbands. It was for the husbands to decide how many children they want (Gordon, 2002). The work of the women was only to sire and take care of these children. The situation later changed but there were still a lot of restrictions and r eservations from society. The women who dared to stand for leadership positions were viewed as rebels who had no respect for men. This took a different twist later on with more and more women seeking to empower and free themselves from bondage. Later on, women began to demand for their right to vote and participate in constituting of laws in their countries. Women’s legal rights were grossly abused and violated. Women could not defend themselves in courts of law without the consent of their husbands. Women could also not engage others in legal suits. French women who were married are known to have suffered from numerous restrictions on their legal capacities until recent reforms. In some parts of the East, women were treated as untouchable. They had little or no rights

Legal Systems and Contract Law Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Legal Systems and Contract Law - Assignment Example The scenario presented by the case of Arju, a consumer who went to purchase a power washer at a local store whereby she was assisted by three different people. This case involves a number of parties and therefore, the Scots contract law will be applied in this case. Question A1 In this scenario, we witness a customer who advised Arju to purchase a certain power washer (AK47 Watersquirt). Arju purchased the water washer based on the recommendation of the customer. In this scenario, as the lawyer representing Arju, I would advise him not to pursue this case in a court of law. This is because the customer’s recommendation amounted to something more or else of a promise. According to the Scots Law of contract, a unilateral promise is not recognised as a contract. The provisions of the Scots Law of contract do not recognize unilateral promises which are against the provisions of this law. This is similar to the case of Punit Beriwala v. Suva Sanyal [1998], whereby Suva had sued Pun it for breach of contract based on a marriage promise. The court held that the promise was not enforceable and therefore the promise could not be considered as a binding contract. According to the Scots law of contracts, for a contract to be binding it must be a bilateral agreement between two parties. On the other hand a contract can exist whereby a person has obligation to perform duties in relation to another person. This type of contract is referred to as a gratuitous  contract (Douglas,  56). In the case of Arju, she was not advised by the customer in this scenario but the customer was merely expressing her opinion. As a result, a court of law would not recognize this as a breach of contract since there was no contract in the first place. According to the Scots Law of contracts, a contract is an agreement between two or more parties with the intention of creating legally binding obligations. Therefore, the customer’s recommendation had no intention of creating legall y binding agreement. As the legal representative of Arju, I would advise her not to pursue a case against the said customer but instead try to be careful the next time. Question A2 In another scenario, we witness a sales assistant who is not familiar with power washers but goes ahead to assure Arju that the store sells quality goods. However, the sales assistant omitted information concerning customer recalls on goods on faulty goods. Based on the information provided by this case, as the lawyer for Arju, I would advise her to sue the sales assistant and the shop for breach of contract. According to the Scots Law of contracts, a contract is an agreement between two or more parties. In terms of promises one makes to another, the Scots Law of contracts requires the promise to be done in writing or be proved by a writ or oath. However, this provision excludes undertaking done under businesses. Therefore, the sales assistant’s reassurance of the good quality of goods sold by the store amounted to a breach of contract. The promise given to Arju by the sales assistant compelled Arju to purchase from the store leading to a loss (Hare, 64). As a result, Arju should sue the store based on the information provided by the sales assistant. Another provision of the Scots Law of contract is that for a contract to be legal and binding there must be free and genuine consent of the parties. In this scenario, the sales assist

Sexual behavior since the AIDS Epidemic Research Paper

Sexual behavior since the AIDS Epidemic - Research Paper Example There is need to understand the use of contraceptive among college students. Such knowledge will help in ensuring that there is enough education to these students on the use of contraceptives. The incidence of unintended pregnancy and the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have increased since the 1980’s (Lundgaard, 2010). Many studies that have been done in the past show that there is a high rate of unintended pregnancies. It is in the US that higher incidencecs of unintended preganancies are found but now days it is a replication all over the globe. However, European teens are more likely to use contraceptives than United States teens therefore lower pregnancy rates that in U.S. (Kaye, 2009). This shows that there is no proper use of contraceptives among college students in the United States. This therefore calls for a study to what could be the cause of such behavior and attitude of contraceptives among college students in the United States. Thesis Statement Many people do not use contraceptives because of misconceptions about contraceptives, negative attitude about contraceptives, failure to recognize the risk of pregnancy, inability to communicate with their partners, disapproval by partners and worry about side effects.

ACCT310 U5 IP Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

ACCT310 U5 IP - Research Paper Example Therefore, the ski lift will be more profitable in an after tax situation and will add more to the company’s wealth. However, there are several subjective factors that can affect the investment decision. The company can only assume additional number of ski tickets after the installation of the new lifts. Nonetheless, this value can vary to a great extent. A troubled weather for a few days will cost the lodge hundreds of visitors every day. Similarly, the new lifts are not a surety for attracting hundred of more visitors to the resort. The company must have other plans to attract the customers to the lodge, and then convince them to use the ski lifts and other accessories. Therefore, the new ski lift is, in itself, a profitable investment based on the net present values; nonetheless, there are many others subjective factors that need to be looked upon before making a final investment

Sexual behavior since the AIDS Epidemic Research Paper

Sexual behavior since the AIDS Epidemic - Research Paper Example There is need to understand the use of contraceptive among college students. Such knowledge will help in ensuring that there is enough education to these students on the use of contraceptives. The incidence of unintended pregnancy and the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have increased since the 1980’s (Lundgaard, 2010). Many studies that have been done in the past show that there is a high rate of unintended pregnancies. It is in the US that higher incidencecs of unintended preganancies are found but now days it is a replication all over the globe. However, European teens are more likely to use contraceptives than United States teens therefore lower pregnancy rates that in U.S. (Kaye, 2009). This shows that there is no proper use of contraceptives among college students in the United States. This therefore calls for a study to what could be the cause of such behavior and attitude of contraceptives among college students in the United States. Thesis Statement Many people do not use contraceptives because of misconceptions about contraceptives, negative attitude about contraceptives, failure to recognize the risk of pregnancy, inability to communicate with their partners, disapproval by partners and worry about side effects.

Ause and Effect on Rhabdomyosarcoma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ause and Effect on Rhabdomyosarcoma - Essay Example Such genetic problems cause very quick development of the new cells and also cause the old cells to live for a very long period. The number of cells keeps increasing as a result of this, thus creating tumors. Certain genetic disorders can also cause damage to the DNA. However, in a vast majority of cases, doctors are unaware of the exact causes of abnormalities of the DNA which cause rhabdomyosarcoma in an individual. â€Å"There are no known lifestyle-related or environmental causes of RMS, so it is important to know that there is nothing these children or their parents could have done to prevent these cancers† (â€Å"Rhabdomyosarcoma† a). Risk Factors Although there is a lot of subjectivity about the real causes of rhabdomyosarcoma, yet there are certain risk factors that increase an individual’s susceptibility to acquiring rhabdomyosarcoma. These risk factors include but are not limited to age, gender, and inherited conditions. The population that is most freq uently affected by rhabdomyosarcoma is of children below ten years of age, though rhabdomyosarcoma may also be observed in adolescents, teenagers, and adults. Rhabdomyosarcoma is more frequently seen in boys or men as compared to girls or women. People inherit their risk to fall prey to different kinds of cancer. The DNA inherited by an individual from the parents may have some changes to cause this tendency. The risk of rhabdomyosarcoma is increased by some inherited conditions, though they are generally very rare. For example, people with a family history of Li-Fraumeni syndrome have increased risk of acquiring different kinds of sacromas including rhabdomyosarcoma. Patients of Beckwith-Wierdemann syndrome are at great risk of development of the Wilms tumor. Effects There are a lot of effects of rhabdomyosarcoma, some of which are discussed here. Rhabdomyosarcoma creates a mass inside the body which at times is painful while at other times, is not painful. Rhabdomyosarcoma causes development of tumors in the throat or nose. The development of tumors is accompanied with the symptoms of congestion, bleeding. Or neurological problems upon extension into brain. In some cases, the patient may experience problems in the process of swallowing. Sometimes, rhabdomyosarcoma in the patient causes the development of tumors around the eyes which can cause such harmful effects as the eye’s bulging, and swelling. In a vast majority of cases when this happens, the individual experiences problems with vision. Rhabdomyosarcoma causes development of tumors inside the ears due to which, the patient suffers from a loss of hearing ability and also experiences swelling inside the ear. Rhabdomyosarcoma also causes the tumors to develop inside the vagina, and they may be visible from the vagina’s opening. Tumors in such regions as vagina and bladder not only decline an individual’s control over urine, but also affect the sexual life of the individual. Tumors in the muscles are also a great source of pain. Owing to this, many patients interpret the muscle tumors as injuries. Treatment Treatment of rhabdomyosarcoma is complicated. It requires mutual effort of several nurses, doctors, and physicians. The most effective treatment option is worked out jointly by the pediatric oncologists, oncology nurses, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. â€Å"

Greek mathematician Pythagoras Essay Example for Free

Greek mathematician Pythagoras Essay Pythagoras was a Greek philosopher and mathematician. He was born in Samos, Ionia around 580 b.c. Thales, who was another philosopher was the main teacher of Pythagoras. Pythagoras went to study further in Egypt so Thales couldnt teach him anymore. In Pythagoras teenage years, he began to become known for his philosophic ideas. He also succeeded in math, astronomy, wrestling, and music. In music, he figured out that when a string is vibrating, the longer or shorter it is makes a difference in the tune of the note. In astronomy, he taught that the earth was a sphere, and in math he compared the difference between composite and prime numbers, discovered irrational numbers, and proved the Pythagorean Theorem. This stated that when the two shorter sides in a right triangle were squared and then added, it would equal the square of the longest side or hypotenuse. This was known earlier, but he was the first one to really prove it was true. He soon moved from his home in Italy to a place called Crotona. In Crotona, he found a wife named Theano and founded a school based on philosophy and religion. While in Crotona he discovered many things and even had some followers. Pythagoras followers called themselves the Pythagoreans. In order to become a Pythagorean , you had to follow a couple of strict rules. One of the rules was silence. This meant that you could never share any of your own ideas with the others and that you could only listen to your fellow Pythagoreans. Another rule was avoiding the ingestion of meat. An interesting thing about his school was that if you joined you were automatically a Pythagorean so that meant if you were a student, youd have to obey the rules also. His followers also believed in reincarnation. Reincarnation- when one dies, their soul is transferred to another human beings body. Pythagoras died in Metapontum, Lucania in 500 b.c. Historians think that he  fled and just barely escaped death when violence broke out in Crotona. When he died, a lot of his ideas were forgotten. We will always miss our dear Pythagorus.

THE END JUSTIFIES THE MEANS

THE END JUSTIFIES THE MEANS Doctor Faustus is a play written by Christopher Marlowe, based on the Faust story, in which a man sells his soul to the devil for power and knowledge. Doctor Faustus was first published in 1604, eleven years after Marlowes death and at least twelve years after the first performance of the play. Faustus is seen as a tragic hero since he is a character that makes an error of judgment or has a fatal flaw which combined with fate external forces, brings on a tragedy. This tragic flaw leading to either action or inaction is the beginning of the characters downward sprial, which was originally caused by his great character trait. Faustus is a scholar who has great intelligence, ambition and honor; these aspects of his personality are often his weakness, as well as his greatest personality trait, leads him into conflict. He is not a villain, his aims are good but means to achieve it are not. Faustus comments that he has reached the end of every subject he has studied. He appreciates Logic as being a tool for arguing; Medicine as being unvalued unless it allowed raising the dead and immortality; Law as being upstanding and above him; Divinity as useless because he feels that all humans commit sin, and thus to have sins punished by death complicates the logic of Divinity. He dismisses it as What doctrine call you this? (What will be, shall be). Actually, he was aware of every art that mankind could be able to learn. Philosophy is odious and obscure, Both law and physic are for petty wits, Divinity is basest of the three- Unpleasant, harsh, contemptible and vile. Tis magic, magic that hath ravished me! Then, gentle friends, aid me in this attempt (100 105) You shouldnt finish your paragraph with a quotation. You should devote a line or two to analyse it and try to connect it to the point you want to prove, which is that Faustus is a tragic hero. Nonetheless, he was not satisfied with everything he knew so he called upon his servant Wagner to bring for Valdes and Cornelius, two famous magicians. The good angel and the bad angel dispense their own perspective of his interest in Satan. Though Faustus is momentarily dissuaded, proclaiming How am I glutted with conceit of this? He is apparently won over by the possibilities Magic offers to him. Valdes declares that if Faustus devotes himself to Magic, he must vow not to study anything else and points out that great things are indeed possible with someone of Faustus standing. The miracles that magic will perform Will make thee vow to study nothing else. (130 131) Thereafter, Doctor Faustus makes an accord with the Devil in order to achieve what he wants. Right there, Faustus, Lucifer and other devils created a circle and speak an incantation. Then a devil named Mephistopheles appears before him. Faustus is unable to tolerate the hideous looks of the devil and commands it to change its appearance. Faustus, in seeing the obedience of the devil (for changing form), takes pride in his skill. He tries to bind the devil to his service but is unable to because Mephistopheles already serves Lucifer, the prince of devils. Mephistopheles also reveals that it was not Faustuss power that summoned him but rather anyone that abjured the scriptures would result in the devil coming to claim ones soul. Again you are re-telling me the story, but I can ´t see the point when you connect the characteristics of the tragic hero with those present in Faustus. I charge you to return and change thy shape, Thou art too ugly to attend on me. Go, and return an old Franciscan friar: That holy shape becomes a devil best How pliant is this Mephistopheles, Full of obedience and humility, Such is the force of magic and my spells (Iii 25 33) I am a servant of to great Lucifer And may not follow thee without his leave. No more than he commands must we perform (Iii 39 41) Using Mephistopheles as a messenger, Faustus strikes a deal with Lucifer: he is to be allotted twenty-four years of life on Earth, during which time he will have Mephistopheles as his personal servant. At the end he will give his soul over to Lucifer as payment and spend the rest of time as one damned to Hell. This deal is to be sealed in Faustus own blood. After having cut his arm, the wound is divinely healed and the Latin words Homo, fuge! (Man, fly!) appear upon it. Despite the dramatic nature of this obvious divine intervention, Faustus disregards the inscription with the presumption that he is already damned by his actions thus far, therefore left with no place to which he could flee. Mephistopheles brings coals to break the wound open again, and thus Mephistopheles begins his servitude and Faustus his oath. To sum up, Faustus own greed drove him to the grave and ruin. The Devil claimed his property and take Doctor Faustus to the depths forever. Juan, Im sorry to tell you but althugh this essay strangely displays a perfect grammar (for evidently theres cut and paste from wikipedia for MOST of the essay) you are not proving the point you are supposed to. Bear in mind the characteristics of the tragic hero and connect them to evidence y the text. Im quite disappointed, in fact. Mark: 4 (four)

A Comparison of the Divided Self in Wuthering Heights and Frankenstein :: comparison compare contrast essays

Wuthering Heights and Frankenstein - Theme of the divided self Theme of the divided self within Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights and Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Thematically, the divided self is one of the most interesting themes within both novels and is of great importance to the development or ruin of the characters in both 'Wuthering Heights' and 'Frankenstein.' Both authors when primarily exploring this theme focus upon the physical, mental or spiritual division within certain characters. In Emily Bronte's novel 'Wuthering Heights,' the principal characters Cathy and Heathcliff are presented as needing this division within themselves to recognise their need for each other. This endurance of physical, mental and spiritual division whilst alive, allows them only tragically to experience when in death, complete entity within themselves. Primarily Cathy is not depicted as divided; instead, she is presented as belonging to a family unit, which seems to stay intact until the arrival of a 'gypsy brat.' Although Heathcliff creates a divide within the family due to his arrival, Cathy is seen to gain a friend with whom she feels she has an affinity both physically, spiritually and mentally, which will become increasingly evident as the novel progresses. However, this alliance throughout the novel is frequently thrown into turmoil by outside influences or factors. As we are informed from the onset, the "greatest punishment" that could be bestowed upon Cathy was separation from Heathcliff. Cathy and Heathcliff's separation only therefore ensues as a result of their initial outing to Thrushcross Grange. Their promise to grow up together as 'rude as savages,' is destroyed when Cathy and Heathcliff are separated physically by many factors resulting from this visitation. Just as the Linton's dog 'holds' Cathy, so too is the Linton's house symbolically presented as separating her from Heathcliff, when Heathcliff resorts to peering in through their 'great glass panes' to see Cathy, after being physically 'dragged' out of Thrushcross Grange. Cathy is also depicted as physically separated from Heathcliff even when she returns to Wuthering Heights. Instead of a 'wild, hatless little savage' with whom Heathcliff has an affinity with, she returns as a 'very dignified person.' Heathcliff is now therefore separated physically from Cathy, not only by appearance but as he said in the previous chapter, her superiority "to everybody," including him. The presentation of Cathy and Heathcliff as physically divided is not only literally seen through the differing households but also through Cathy's own actions and attire.

Movie Review of Maria Full of Grace and De Nadie Essay

Maria Full of Grace is a film by Joshua Marston revealing drug trafficking world. The desperation of people sue to poverty is depicted well in this movie Columbian drug lords use mules to transport cocaine to the U. S. Mules are actually humans used to carry drugs to be transported to other countries without being detected. The mechanism is through the ingestion of capsules containing the product and stores it in the mule’s stomach, after which it will be expelled. Many people are attracted to this type of job because the drug lords will try to convince you that the job is easy plus it involves a large amount of money in exchange of your service to them. However, if any of the drug products was lost during the transport, you will have to deal with the brutal consequences and it means exchange of your life or your family’s life as the mules are no more important as any other plastic containers (Berardinelli, 2004, p. n. pag. ). Maria, performed by Catalina Sandino Moreno is a 17-year old young girl who hates her job as a â€Å"de-thorner† in a factory. Her family that includes her mother, grandmother, and unmarried sister however relies on Maria’s salary to survive. Maria then quits her lifeless job and finds out that she is pregnant but her boyfriend refuses to marry her. After this devastating event of her life, she accepted the offer a man gave her to be a mule of the Columbian-New York run. Together with two young girls Blanca (Yenny Paola Vega), and Lucy (Guilied Lopez), Maria thought the job was easy and was blinded by the money she will earn in this type of job. In addition, Lucy grabs the opportunity to go to New York to reunite with her sister. The three girls were not forced to be in this kind of business; they chose their own path because of their greed and need for money. They thought of United States as their only way out of poverty especially Maria as she prepares herself for her unborn unwanted child (Berardinelli, 2004, p. n. pag. ). The dramatization built by Marston in the film is flawless as he developed each character. The story is very moving as it is very realistic because of the increasing poverty in third-world countries. Moreno gives a memorable performance as she flawlessly portrayed Maria as a hopeless, desperate and selfish girl who greed for money (Berardinelli, 2004, p. n. pag. ). De Nadie Another documentary film showing the desperation of people driven by poverty is De Nadie. This film directed by Tim Dirdamal brings us to the world of migrants from South America looking for a way to enter North America. They believe that migration to the United States is the only way to get rid of poverty. However, their search for a route is often illegal and migrates from the Central America who initially has to cross Mexico before going to United States are given less attention (Coupeau, 2006, p. n. pag. ). The process of migration is by a fast moving cargo train crossing the Mexican territory. However, many aspiring migrants die or amputated as they fall and pushed off the fast moving train. This unimaginable risk is taken by those people as a solution to their miserable poor life. Se Maria, a Honduran migrant whose life was changed after seeking help in the hands of a group of Mexican nuns who conducted a fund raising activity using raffle draws. Madres de la Patrona gave food to the immigrants taking risks to enter United States (Coupeau, 2006, p. n. pag. ). . Compare and Contrast Both films are political as they expose the desperation of many people in order to escape poverty. The directors are not biased in their portrayal of poverty and the hopelessness and greed of people for money. Also, the aspiration of many people from all countries to go to United States is because of their belief that when you go to U. S, poverty will go away. What they don’t know is due to global crisis, many people in the U. S are now unemployed and also experiencing financial problems. Both Maria Full of Grace and De Navie showed that people’s principles are easily swayed when money is involved. The natural greed of humans to money made the characters Maria, Blanca and Lucy of Maria Full of Grace and Maria of De Navierisk their lives. They took what they though the one chance that will get them out of their miserable lives. Also, both are very realistic films since it cannot be denied that drug trafficking and illegal immigrations are two of the most known illegitimate money-making businesses. Both films showed that no one is to be blamed other than yourself because it was shown in both movies that no one forced the characters to enter drug trafficking and illegal immigration. Although they are both victims of poverty, they are not innocent victims of drug trafficking and illegal immigration. I find Maria Full of Grace more moving than De Navie since more lives are ruined in drug trafficking than in illegal immigration. Drug trafficking is a more serious problem in that the mules that act as carriers of drugs doesn’t realize that they are tolerating the business that ruins many lives and families. Bibliography Berardinelli, J. (2004). Maria Full of Grace. Retrieved May 2, 2010, from http://www. reelviews. net/movies/m/maria_full. html Coupeau, D. S. (2006, August 2006). Alterinfos America Latina. Retrieved May 2, 2010, from http://www. alterinfos. org/spip. php? article465

Literature Review and Learning Journal

Energy is an extremely significant cost factor in managing the United States petrochemical industry (Neelis et. al, 2008). According to the current business scenario, US faces an increasingly competitive and challenging business environment all over the globe, the US petrochemical industry seeks out to curtail their production costs without affecting their production output or yield. The uncertainty in oil prices is one of the most crucial factors that have a negative impact on forecasted earnings of the petrochemical industry. The most applicable method of price forecasting in petrochemical industry is making the estimations of average cost that has to be produced in a new plant in order to determine the economic size and eventually the reasonable profit. Viable and cost-effective investment in the petrochemical industry through installing energy efficient practices as well as technologies meets the tremendous challenge of preserving the maintenance of a high quality energy product. Energy usage is a significant source of emissions incorporated in the petrochemicals industry. This source of emission in the petrochemical industry causes a tremendous improvement in energy efficiency. Also the competitive factors comprising of number of manufacturer as well the employment of new technologies for the development of petrochemicals are the cause of strategic options employed in the manufacture of petrochemicals. Discussion Strategic management evaluates critically the significant initiatives taken by an organization’s top management to allocate its resources efficiently and effectively in order to attain maximum business feasibility nd profitability. The Chinese petrochemicals companies are Petro China Company limited and China National Petroleum Corporation. CNPC holds approximately total reserves of 3. 7 billion barrels (590,000,000 m3) of oil equivalent. CNPC produced approximately 54 billion cubic metres of natural gas in 2007. CNPC invested most of its domestic assets into a separate company known as Petro China, during a plan of restructuring their organization. CNPC has around 30 international production as well as exploration projects. These projects are completed in joint coopeartion with numerous Asian, European, American as well as several countries that are included in USSR. The countries that are included comprised of Azerbaijan, , Peru, Sudan, Thailand, Canada, Iran, Indonesia, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, Myanmar, Oman. The exploration projects, both domestic and overseas, are run by a wholly owned subsidiary, the Great Wall Drilling Company (GWDC). So, strategic management consists of making clear the organization’s mission, business goals that are necessary to be achieved for the survival of business as well as its objectives. Public sector does not measure in cost but it is equivalent that is very much central to the production as well as delivery of public commodities and services. The market failure occurs because the goal of private sector in the economy organizations is usually to increase efficiency and effectiveness, thus attaining the business objective of producing the goods and services at a lower cost in comparison to the prevailing production costs in the industry (Baume & Tolbert, 1985). As private sector failed because of the market failure, public sector does fails because of the higher inefficiencies in the deliverance of service. The most common example of these inefficiencies is regarded as Public Education. The area of public education has immensely failed to match up to the level of Private Institutes that are operating independently in providing quality education as well as incorporate improved learning with the students. There have been dire movements that consist of demanding the transfer of the Public Education charter into the cruel hands of the Private sector NPO’s. If the public sector is to collaborate effectively with the private sector, the most important decision is to tackle the appropriate selection of organization related to that sector (Bryson, 211, pp. 473). The discussion of the most eligible alternative that is widely known as public choice is very critical. This also holds true for how values that are holding private sector’s infrastructure can be institutionalized into public sector. Institution itself is independent (Olson & Euyong, 1998). It is the design that is the most integral part of any organizations goal realization. Conclusion: Furthur research and development should be conducted in order to set up plants for producing oil efficiently and effectively. Also, there is a need to eliminate and reduce oil wastage in order to maximize oil production. 2nd literature review Introduction: This literature review highlights the issue of building up manpower through effective human resource management skills. Setting up an oil company requires good people management skills as any good organization always requires the capable human resources to fulfill the needs of a successful and viable organization. Organizations work through people and these people need some skills and competencies to perform their duties. Today, skillful workforce is considered as a single source of gaining sustainable competitive advantage and to manage this force human resource departments are established and huge amount of budget is allocated for this purpose. Recently training is taken as a critical component for the success of any organization. Therefore, companies are increasing their investment in training programs to improve employees’ performance that in turn can give rise to overall performance of organization. Basically training is conducted because of current or expected performance deficiency related to skills, knowledge, and abilities. So, undoubtedly, training and performance is naturally interlinked. When any management person realizes the problem in productivity they identify which type of training is required for solving the issue. Discussion Employee training in an oil sector is an important factor in the success of an organization. Also the labor is particularly cheap in China so it requires effective management in working efficiently and effectively (Armstrong, 2000). Training is not a single step process but it is a group of activities to provide employees with required or improved KSA’s that helps them to perform efficiently and in accomplishment of organization’s goals. It provides organizations increased employee commitment, improved job performance, enhance organization flexibility to adopt changes due to internal and external factors, reduce conflicts among employees, gives high motivation, improve thinking, creativity and physical competencies, and create an overall environment of dedication towards organizational objectives. Training is a five step process that starts from the training need analysis and ends at evaluation stage. Training is not only provided to improve and teach new skills but also to refresh existing skills with the alignment of new technologies and other factors. According to the research, there are five major benefits of training programs. First one is enhanced skills, second is succession planning, decrease time of supervision, management of risk, and improved motivation. Performance management is also a major function of Human Resource Management. It has different components related to measures of managing and assessing employee performance. Performance management includes improvement of individual and overall performance, delivering expectations of management from supervisors and managers, promote communication between management and employees, supervising subordinates to improve their performance by rewarding and recognizing them, and solve poor performance issues. Performance management comprise of five key factors as motivation, appraisals, promotions, coaching or supervising, and poor performance issues are resolved. The US petro chemical company operating in China needs to set up a learning organization in order to enhance faster growth and sustainability in the region. The successful organizations have focused on creating learning organizations through incorporating the five disciplines of personal mastery, mental models, building shared vision, team learning and systems thinking (Senge, 2010). As human resources are the assets of an organization they need to be developed efficiently and effectively through the approaches of gaining personal mastery. Personal mastery is a discipline that focuses on creating and broadening personal vision as an employee to gain focus and motivation for achieving better results in terms of output and profit as well as personal development (Senge, 2010). Mental models describe the perspectives, generalizations and assumptions that the employees hold in their minds about the world. If the mental models are negative then it can hamper the employees in their personal growth as well as in attainment organizational objectives and vision. Positive attitudes of employees helps build up a shared vision towards organizational success. (Senge, 2010). This can be major human resource gap. Human resource development is an strategy to fill out HR gaps that causes major problems in achieving effective organizational performance and profitability (Ulrich, 2012). Human resource development encompasses human resource practices that are crucial to the effective, competitive and sustainable development of human resource management system. The categorization of human capital has been sub-divided into three categories which are intellectual capital, social capital and organizational capital. Human resource development encompasses crucial aspects of effective work practices that include recruitment and selection processes, employee training and development and performance management and compensation management to enhance the knowledge, skills and abilities of employees. These HRM practices conducted effectively results in the retention of quality employees and the dismissal of shirkers. One is of the major aspect of human resource development and management is the recruitment and selection of employees (Senge, 2010). Job Assignment, Recruitment and Selection Recruitment and selections are crucial for the organization, because it makes sure that the right kind of individual is selected so that they can bring success to the company (Senge, 2010). The strategic fit between the individual and the organization is done through recruitment and selection and it can be seen in the following diagram. Recruitment and selection is one of the most crucial and important phases of human resource development. It is the most initial phase in human resource development and management. As a first step a pool of candidates are selected that meet the eligibility standards for the jobs in an organizations, then out of these pool of candidates the most suitable ones are screened and selected through various tests and interviews by which their knowledge, skills and abilities are analyzed. After the recruitment and selection phase comes the next crucial step of training and development of employees. Conclusion It is a fact that China is a very successful company and its overall economic performance is improving year after year. The proof of its success can be seen in its wide operations in almost every country. Training and performance management as HR functions are very important for developing a sound management in the petrochemical sector of the country. So, the US management believes on the key role of performance management system and training programs in retaining and attracting high performers that in turn leads to improved overall business performance and gives extreme consideration to these functions. So, in the success or increasing financial results training and performance management functions are playing vital role. In conclusion, performance management is directly related to business performance or success. Training is indirectly related to business success because without measuring performance gap, need of training cannot be identified and performance management helps in recognizing this need. Training is directly related to performance management because when training is given it increases performance of individuals that leads to improve business performance and when a business perform well it becomes successful. The success of an organization is based on attracting and retaining the right kind of individuals. The process of recruitment tends to discover the sources of human resources to meet the requirements of staffing of the company and to implement effective measures so that talent could be attracted to fulfill the positions within the organization (Senge, 2010). Recruitment is very much Recruitment and selection are one of the major functions of the HR department. Recruitment process is based on a systematic procedure that starts from sourcing the talent and ending on interviews (Ulrich, 2012). There is a major gap in efficient recruitment procedures if they are not planned by keeping in mind the HR needs of an organization. (Senge, 2012) Recruitment procedures can be conducted effectively by laying out a proper recruitment plan through extensive research and analysis by creating a strategic human resource management plan and recruiting employees to create a competitive advantage in the industry. It is a strategic task and forms the basis for how the company is able to grow and achieve their business targets (Ulrich, 2012). Learning Journal Introduction The United States of America is faced with cut throat competitive and challenging business environment all over the globe, the US petrochemical industry seeks out to curtail their production costs without affecting their production output or yield. The uncertainty in oil prices is one of the most crucial factors that have a negative impact on forecasted earnings of the petrochemical industry. The most applicable method of price forecasting in petrochemical industry is making the estimations of average cost that has to be produced in a new plant in order to determine the economic size and eventually the reasonable profit The modules I have chosen are strategic management to gain competitive advantage and development of a core competency that is what others do not have is the key to implement a successful business strategy as is the case with the globally successful business schools of the world. Micheal Porter’s five forces also impacts to a great extent in the viable strategic management of a business. These forces are bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of customers, threat of new entrants, existing rivals and threat of substitute products and services. These are the industrial competitive forces that have to be analyzed and assessed for capturing the market by implementing a viable strategy. The mangers who are involved in the strategic planning concerned with the business of petrochemicals must be concerned with the future prices forecasting of petrochemicals as well as the factors that regulate these prices. Strategic management is concerned with developing effective policies as well as strategic plans, more often related to projects and the programs. These projects and programs are effectively developed and designed to accomplish and achieve these goals and objectives. After that the allocation of resources is done to implement strategically these policies as well as plans, in addition to projects and programs. A balanced scorecard is often used to evaluate the overall performance of the business and its progress towards achievement of its business goals and objectives efficiently and effectively. Recent studies and leading management theorists have advocated that strategy needs to start with stakeholders expectations and use a modified balanced scorecard which includes all stakeholders. I learnt that the collaboration between the public and private sector organizations is inevitable to ensure that the public policy has been implemented and met. Public sector organizations are mostly government owned. They cannot ensure efficiency in every public goods and service they are providing. This is the system where private sector organizations are offered the tenders from public sector in order to carry out the production as well as deliverance of different varieties of public goods. Personal development is one of the major factors of attaining success in achieving one’s learning objectives as well as career development. Personality traits, economic stability, social status, institutional, cultural and dispositional variables are some of the most important factors when people decide upon their career decisions. Career development and decisions are one of the most crucial decisions of one’s life as they shape a person’s future prospects and sets out his vision for future. Discussion Economic stability is one of the major factors that influence the role in executing one’s career objectives. The ever increasing tuition fee is one of the major causes that affect students of not so high calibre for students who could not get into the university they choose. There seems to be a dearth of good educational institutions particularly in Asian countries because many high achievers in academics do get scholarships for getting into the best university. The students who cannot get scholarship are often the ones who have the aptitude for the subject but just because they have not secured good grades they are left out from scholarships. There is a contrasting situation if we analyze the European countries and United States as there is a wide range of good universities to take into account when applying for higher education in universities (Daib, 1999). Psychological factors also impacts to a great extent on career choices. The introverts and the extroverts are the two major personality categories; the introverts choose to vary in their selection of subjects as compared to extroverts. There is also a third category of individuals which is known as extroverted introverts ( The extroverts usually choose careers that require field work whereas the introverted personalities choose careers that will not let them reach out from their comfort zones. Both can choose the same career fields relating to the level of how introverted or extroverted are they (Wright, 1987). The extroverted introvert individuals are one of the important and complex personalities when it comes to analyzing their career choices (Sofer and Raimes, 2002). They pose a defensive self which reflects their extroverted side whereas deep inside themselves they know that they are introverts. Their career choices can be unexpected as compared to both the categories of individuals that is the extroverted and the introverted (Blackhall and Michelle, 2010). There are four stages of career development that consists of exploration, option analysis and decision-making, planning and implementation (Sofer and Raimes, 2002). The stage of exploration consists of analyzing different career options and exploring a wide range of career options including different studies and aptitudes required. The stage of option analysis comprises of the options available to make a successful and promising career as well as the fulfilment of learning objectives (Underwood,1989). The third stage is planning in which you plan to tread on the way as a career you have chosen for yourself (Bouma and Atkinson, 1995). The research and development should have to be enhanced in order to support the further viability of the new petrochemical setup in China Conclusion The module also helped me in understanding personal development. Personal development is one of the major factors of attaining success in achieving one’s learning objectives as well as career development. Personality traits, economic stability, social status, institutional, cultural and dispositional variables are some of the most important factors when people decide upon their career decisions. Career development and decisions are one of the most crucial decisions of one’s life as they shape a person’s future prospects and sets out his vision for future. The determination of career and learning objectives is one of the basic human rights and it is the right of every person to have his dreams of education and careers fulfilled. Also, it is of utmost importance that an individual should make a right career choice irrespective of the cultural, social and other pressures that have an impact on the long term mission and vision of an individual. With many factors influencing the career choices and learning objectives it is imperative that the right learning and career choices should be made in order to have a promising and successful future. Direction For Furthur Research How can the strategic management of the US petrochemical industry be improved to gain more markets in China? What are the ways to attract ideal employees for the organizational setup for petro chemical industries in China?