Recount and the U.S. Supreme Court Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Recount and the U.S. Supreme Court - Essay Example a political battle ended by the federal courts as the Florida Supreme Court ordered for a state-wide recount which is later on brought to an end by the U.S. Supreme Court. In this case, the Supreme Court resolved whether the recount is constitutional and identified a remedy once deemed unconstitutional. Within the American Judiciary, a writ of certiorari could be granted only for compelling reasons but of judicial discretion. One of the grounds cited by the judges, as per asserted in Rule 10, was the occurrence of discrepancy on the decision of Florida Supreme Court for ballot recounts. It could be recalled that in December of the same year, the Florida Supreme Court stated multiple court decisions regarding the presidential election and the process of manual recount which was mandated to be statewide and even with the appeal of Bush, were ordered for stay. Justice Scalia argued that the petitioner Gore has a substantial probability of success and a manual recount was granted in order to count the legally casted votes that may not be counted by the machine such as in cases of dimpled chad. Moreover, it was accounted by the justice that halting the pro cess of recounting votes will inevitably shed a confusion of the legitimacy of the election. Yet the issue remains, why did the U.S. Supreme Court overturn the decision of Florida Supreme Court on its mandated recount? The majority of the justices elected that the decision of Florida Supreme Court for state-wide manual recounting was unconstitutional as they reckon that the Florida Legislature aimed to utilize the â€Å"safe-harbor† benefits of â€Å"determination of controversy as to appointment of electors† as stated in Title 3 of the United States Code  § 5. Three justices, Rehnquist, Scalia and Thomas, claimed that the Florida Supreme Court’s decision violated the intent of Florida legislature while seven of them concurred that there was a defiance of the Equal Protection Clause in manual counting as there has

The Cuban Missile Crisis Essay Example for Free

The Cuban Missile Crisis Essay Historians describe the 1962 crisis as a tripartite affair between Cuba, Soviet Union and America. Each country had the power or the probability of affecting the outcome of the crisis in any way it deemed fit. However, contrary to numerous beliefs on the crisis, Cuba was alone as it could not count on the support of the Soviet Union for long. Worse still, Cuba was continually threatened by America; thus, Cuba’s approach was to support radical movements across Africa, Asia, and Latin America to progress a league of like-minded nations. To Cubans the 1962 crisis dates back in 1959 when the Cuban uprising occurred without any Soviet aid. During the Bays of Pigs incursion in 1961, Fidel Castro termed the revolution socialist since the country believed that America was intent on obliterating the uprising. This led to the fear of a U.S. incursion; thus, Cuba looked for ways to defend itself. Cubans attest that the countries did not resolve the crisis amongst themselves since America’s aim of destroying the Cuban rebellion continued even after the October crisis wherein the Soviet Union agreed to America’s demand. The crisis, fought from three main fronts may have instigated a nuclear war. However, several actions and counter-actions ensured that the crisis did not blow to a full blown war. In this regards, Cuba played an important role during the entire crisis. The Cubans saw the Cuban Rebellion as the main cause of the crisis although the Soviet and America thought otherwise. The evaluation of the crisis provides alternative and comprehensive outlook of the causes, impacts, and issues surrounding the crisis from the Cuban standpoint. This led to the fear of a U.S. incursion; thus, Cuba looked for ways to defend itself. Cubans attest that the countries did not resolve the crisis amongst themselves since America’s aim of destroying the Cuban rebellion continued even after the October crisis wherein the Soviet Union agreed to America’s demand. The crisis, fought from three main fronts may have instigated a nuclear war. However, several actions and counter-actions ensured that the crisis did not blow to a full blown war. In this regards, Cuba played an important role during the entire crisis. The Cubans saw the Cuban Rebellion as the main cause of the crisis although the Soviet and America thought otherwise. The evaluation of the crisis provides alternative and comprehensive outlook of the causes, impacts, and issues surrounding the crisis from the Cuban standpoint. Background               The Cuban Crisis of 1962 was the most significant incident of the Cold War.  Ã‚  Ã‚  For 13 days, the America and the Soviet went at each other’s stand on superiority in a period crisis that almost created a nuclear war.  Ã‚  Inexorably, chronological assessments of the Crisis center on the power struggle between the Soviet and America.  Ã‚  Infrequently, people do not consider it indispensable or essential to regard Cuba as a main actor of the crisis. Therefore, to entirely appreciate and comprehend the lessons of the Crisis,  it is essential to value Cubas role in the predicament.  Ã‚  More significantly, though, as the Cold War fades and the world takes shape of a new order, the significance of comprehending the events of the crisis and the main antagonists of the crisis to construct upon the current view of the world and prepare for future crisis becomes more imperative.  Ã‚  Abiding amid those actors, subsequently,  is Cuba.  Ã‚  Ev en though now obviously missing Soviet martial services and financial support, Cuba, today remains a region of significant to America general defense interests.  Ã‚  In this regards, providing an imperative foundation of literary information on the crisis, a link between Cuba and America relations, and the military oppression or missiles predicaments following the crisis may offer future intuition on America’s intent during the crisis. More significantly, though, as the Cold War fades and the world takes shape of a new order, the significance of comprehending the events of the crisis and the main antagonists of the crisis to construct upon the current view of the world and prepare for future crisis becomes more imperative.  Ã‚  Abiding amid those actors, subsequently,  is Cuba.  Ã‚  Even though now obviously missing Soviet martial services and financial support, Cuba, today remains a region of significant to America general defense interests.  Ã‚  In this regards, providing an imperative foundation of literary information on the crisis, a link between Cuba and America relations, and the military oppression or missiles predicaments following the crisis may offer future intuition on America’s intent during the crisis. Discussion             The crisis involved three main countries i.e. America, Cuba, and the Soviet Union. However other countries such as Turkey and Germany were indirectly involved in the crisis. At the occurrence of the predicament, America and the Soviet were the most significant and deterministic countries. The Soviet sough to help Cuba fight off an impending invasion by America as a result of Cuba’s stand in socialists views. Later, Khrushchev termed the missiles as protective precautions against any invasion. Kennedy administration’s disinclination to admit to the status quo in Cuba may have caused the crisis. Unwaveringly disparate to Castro, Kennedy’s administration ordered an ill-fated incursion of Cuba by anti-Castro expatriates in 1961 April. Following the â€Å"Bay of Pigs† debacle, the CIA sought to murder Castro and backed clandestine operations against Cuba. In addition, America’s Department of State ordered a monetary and opinionated em bargo of the country while the Pentagon prepared a full-blown incursion of Cuba. On the other hand, the Soviet Union had become intensely engaged to the Castro regime since 1960, and it was pleased with Cuba’s call for socialism. In fact, Khrushchev viewed Castro as modern Lenin; thus, he knew he was doing something important to liberate Cuba. Cuba knew that Operation Mongoose was meant to destabilize the country and overturn the gains that the country had made over the years; thus, the country was prepared to fight any America’s invasion tactics. In fact, Cuba guessed correctly that the preparations of Pentagon, CIA, and Department of State were preparations for Kennedy administration’s disinclination to admit to the status quo in Cuba may have caused the crisis. Unwaveringly disparate to Castro, Kennedy’s administration ordered an ill-fated incursion of Cuba by anti-Castro expatriates in 1961 April. Following the â€Å"Bay of Pigs† debacle, the CIA sought to murder Castro and backed clandestine operations against Cuba. In addition, America’s Department of State ordered a monetary and opinionated embargo of the country while the Pentagon prepared a full-blown incursion of Cuba. On the other hand, the Soviet Union had become intensely engaged to the Castro regime since 1960, and it was pleased with Cuba’s call for socialism. In fact, Khrushchev viewed Castro as modern Lenin; thus, he knew he was doing something important to liberate Cuba. Cuba knew that Operation Mongoose was meant to destabilize the country and overturn the gains that the country had made over the years; thus, the country was prepared to fi ght any America’s invasion tactics. In fact, Cuba guessed correctly that the preparations of Pentagon, CIA, and Department of State were preparations for On the other hand, the Soviet Union had become intensely engaged to the Castro regime since 1960, and it was pleased with Cuba’s call for socialism. In fact, Khrushchev viewed Castro as modern Lenin; thus, he knew he was doing something important to liberate Cuba. Cuba knew that Operation Mongoose was meant to destabilize the country and overturn the gains that the country had made over the years; thus, the country was prepared to fight any America’s invasion tactics. In fact, Cuba guessed correctly that the preparations of Pentagon, CIA, and Department of State were preparations for future assault on the Cuban soil. In this regards, Cuba acknowledged the Soviet strategy to mount missiles in May of 1962 to prevent any America assault. Furthermore, the installation of the missiles meant that Cuba would become a de facto partner of the Soviet Union. Since America’s estimation of armed Cuban was 100,000, Cuba planed to stage a surprise; thus, had about 270,000 armed Cubans by October 22, 1962. Cuba knew that Kennedy’s administration would not honor its pledge of not invading Cuba; thus, called on the Soviet Union not to withdraw its bombers from Cuba. However, Khrushchev agreed to Kennedy’s terms, which persuaded Cuba that it could not rely on the Soviet Union any longer. In this regards, Cubans saw the crisis as lasting for 6 years during which tension existed between the country and America. In fact, Castro’s administration asserted that the crisis was never resolved amicably. Although the countries realized peace, the aim of the crisis continued to dissipate i.e. America’s aim to destroy the Cuban rebellion continued; thus, according to Cubans, the crisis never ended. Since America’s estimation of armed Cuban was 100,000, Cuba planed to stage a surprise; thus, had about 270,000 armed Cubans by October 22, 1962. Cuba knew that Kennedy’s administration would not honor its pledge of not invading Cuba; thus, called on the Soviet Union not to withdraw its bombers from Cuba. However, Khrushchev agreed to Kennedy’s terms, which persuaded Cuba that it could not rely on the Soviet Union any longer. In this regards, Cubans saw the crisis as lasting for 6 years during which tension existed between the country and America. In fact, Castro’s administration asserted that the crisis was never resolved amicably. Although the countries realized peace, the aim of the crisis continued to dissipate i.e. America’s aim to destroy the Cuban rebellion continued; thus, according to Cubans, the crisis never ended.             Historians have accorded Cuba little regard concerning the crisis even if though they were the main antagonists to the crisis. In fact, were it not for the Cuban Rebellion, America would not have shown an outstanding interest to invade Cuba. Analysts should give credibility to the assertion that both Cuba and the Soviet Union observed the missiles as a restraint against America’s incursion. Although Cuba did not have a missiles; thus, its negligible powers to affect the outcome of the crisis, analysts fail to address the Cuban Rebellion as a key deterrent to any invasion. In fact, the fact that an amicable resolution did not emanate reveals Cuba’s significant to the crisis. More often, historians see Cuba as a colony of the Soviet Union in the crisis; hence, it only acted on the Soviet Union’s powers. However, the Soviet’s agreement to America’s terms after the crisis 13 days demonstrates that Cuba was not an outpost of any count ry. In fact, Cuba was an antagonist of both the Soviet and America. Cuba affected the history the crisis through many aspects of its socialist ideas and the rebellion, and although the countries did not resolve the crisis amicably, facts show that Cuba’s motives, actions, insights, and behaviors during the three stages of the crisis i.e. October 22, October 22 to 28, and October 28 to November 20. More often, historians see Cuba as a colony of the Soviet Union in the crisis; hence, it only acted on the Soviet Union’s powers. However, the Soviet’s agreement to America’s terms after the crisis 13 days demonstrates that Cuba was not an outpost of any country. In fact, Cuba was an antagonist of both the Soviet and America. Cuba affected the history the crisis through many aspects of its socialist ideas and the rebellion, and although the countries did not resolve the crisis amicably, facts show that Cuba’s motives, actions, insights, and behaviors during the three stages of the crisis i.e. October 22, October 22 to 28, and October 28 to November 20.          People view the Missile predicament as the pinnacle of the Cold War albeit it was only 13-days long to America and the Soviet Union. Cuba sought out support from the Soviet Union as a result of the imminent America’s invasion of Cuba, and the Soviets installed missiles all over Cuba. America viewed this as an intimidation from the Soviet Union wherein she prepared for the invasion with economic embargoes on Cuba and plans to assassinate Castro. However, after 13 days of plans and predicaments, America and the Soviet came to an agreement that saw the Soviet withdraw its missiles from Cuba. This left Cuba at a crossroad on the permanence of the crisis since its standoff with America remained. On the other hand, following the agreement America and the Soviet were cautious of using missiles during the entire period to the end of the Cold War. Cubans do not relate the crisis to the Cold war; thus, the difference in thinking between the primary viewpoint on the crisis and Cubans’ viewpoint. Before 1962 October 22          Between 1898 and 1959 America and Cuba were allies. However, after Castro took authority from Fulgencio Batista America cultivated enmity with Cuba that saw several embargoes against Cuba. After Castro took over the authority of the country he called for socialism, which angered the Americans. Further, following the swearing-in of Castro, Cuba experienced the Cuban Rebellion, which Cubans see as the cause of the crisis. The rebellion forced America to think of ways of ending the revolution and the calls for a socialist society; hence, America’s ideas of obliterating the rebellion caused the Cuban Crisis. Economic embargoes and institutions of seditious forces against Cuba, and the Bay of Pigs incursion demonstrated America’s intent to invade Cuba. This caused Castro means of defending Cuba; thus, he turned to the Soviet for help who were more than willing to help Cuba. In fact, Cubans were afraid of any direct incursion by America since they had witnessed the horrors committed in Dominican Republic and Vietnam. Leaders from Cuba believed that America reacted to the 1961 Bay of Pigs fiasco by organizing for much superior invasion of Cuba. Actually, the leaders believed that Americans were intent on overthrowing Cuba’s leadership with the help of America’s military forces. The Soviets shared Cuba’s sentiment; hence, offered to help with the installation of several missiles across Cuba. Cubans’ interpretation of America’s hostility led inescapably to the conclusion of an impending America invasion. This caused Castro means of defending Cuba; thus, he turned to the Soviet for help who were more than willing to help Cuba. In fact, Cubans were afraid of any direct incursion by America since they had witnessed the horrors committed in Dominican Republic and Vietnam. Leaders from Cuba believed that America reacted to the 1961 Bay of Pigs fiasco by organizing for much superior invasion of Cuba. Actually, the leaders believed that Americans were intent on overthrowing Cuba’s leadership with the help of America’s military forces. The Soviets shared Cuba’s sentiment; hence, offered to help with the installation of several missiles across Cuba. Cubans’ interpretation of America’s hostility led inescapably to the conclusion of an impending America invasion.            In 1962, Cuba was suspended from OAS (Organization of American States), which stimulated. Cuba’s reservations of an impending incursion. In June  1962,  however,  Kennedy concluded strategies to contain Cubas political separation by speaking to the forum of OAS symposium at Punta del Este, Uruguay.  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the proposals of America, the OAS affirmed Castros administration irreconcilable with the inter-American organization and, closing that Cuba should be debarred from the OAS, corresponded with America suggestions to enforce an arms ban. With hindsight, then, both America and Cub held each other responsible for their shared animosity and the twisting of trepidation and resentment leading Crisis. For Castro, this resentment was entrenched in his obligation to break Cubas reliance on America and make Cuba a socialist nation.  Ã‚  Castro was persuaded that American regalism had caused Cubas tribulations and that only the eradication of Cubas relia nce on America could overturn the tribulations.  Ã‚  In spite of untimely America’s endeavors to work with the Castro’s administration, Castro had no intent of joining forces America.  Ã‚  To a certain extent, Castro looked for any excuse to break the two countries’ ties. With hindsight, then, both America and Cub held each other responsible for their shared animosity and the twisting of trepidation and resentment leading Crisis. For Castro, this resentment was entrenched in his obligation to break Cubas reliance on America and make Cuba a socialist nation.  Ã‚  Castro was persuaded that American regalism had caused Cubas tribulations and that only the eradication of Cubas reliance on America could overturn the tribulations.  Ã‚  In spite of untimely America’s endeavors to work with the Castro’s administration, Castro had no intent of joining forces America.  Ã‚  To a certain extent, Castro looked for any excuse to break the two countries’ ties.               Cuba saw the suspension as a preparation tactic or diplomatic action taken prior to an invasion. Several reports of an impending invasion followed the action with Miro Cardona indicating that John Kennedy planned on invading Cuba. Following the reports, America threatened to extend its economic restrictions to countries that traded with Cuba. In fact, America tried hard to frustrate Cuba’s trade negotiations with countries such as Japan, Israel, Jordan, Iran, and Greece. Cuban leaders interpreted the America’s orchestrated activities as part of a well schemed strategy to destabilize and destroy Cuba. Furthermore, the Cubans saw the Operation Mongoose as an orchestrated plan meant to bring about a rebellion of the Cubans. America wanted a revolt that would overthrow Castro’s government. The operation was a vast strategy that included blowing up bridges, cutting communication, destruction of sugar mills, and oil facilities, and sabotage of m achines. The CIA and secret radio broadcasts infiltrated numerous teams to support guerrilla forces in Cuba. Cubans saw the guerrilla warfare as an integral strategy aimed at assassinating Castro. In fact, America did not want to replace Castro’s administration with Che Guevara, and they organized for a military invasion that would see major invasions after the death of Castro. Conversely, Cub believed that the exiles would not overthrow the government, a fact best demonstrated by Castro’s interview with Prada. Reports indicate that Cuba was aware of the operation Mongoose since Cuban agents penetrated the Mongoose team. Events preceding the operation and America’s impending invasion may have stimulated Cuba’s decision to accept Soviet’s missile operation. Furthermore, the Cubans saw the Operation Mongoose as an orchestrated plan meant to bring about a rebellion of the Cubans. America wanted a revolt that would overthrow Castro’s government. The operation was a vast strategy that included blowing up bridges, cutting communication, destruction of sugar mills, and oil facilities, and sabotage of machines. The CIA and secret radio broadcasts infiltrated numerous teams to support guerrilla forces in Cuba. Cubans saw the guerrilla warfare as an integral strategy aimed at assassinating Castro. In fact, America did not want to replace Castro’s administration with Che Guevara, and they organized for a military invasion that would see major invasions after the death of Castro. Conversely, Cub believed that the exiles would not overthrow the government, a fact best demonstrated by Castro’s interview with Prada. Reports indicate that Cuba was aware of the operation Mongoose since Cuban agents penetrated the Mongoose team. Eve nts preceding the operation and America’s impending invasion may have stimulated Cuba’s decision to accept Soviet’s missile operation. In fact, America did not want to replace Castro’s administration with Che Guevara, and they organized for a military invasion that would see major invasions after the death of Castro. Conversely, Cub believed that the exiles would not overthrow the government, a fact best demonstrated by Castro’s interview with Prada. Reports indicate that Cuba was aware of the operation Mongoose since Cuban agents penetrated the Mongoose team. Events preceding the operation and America’s impending invasion may have stimulated Cuba’s decision to accept Soviet’s missile operation.            Accordingly, the Kennedy’s government seemed to straighten out  on a strategy of pestering and ambassadorial segregation in order to restrain Castro and keep him uneven.  Ã‚  Ã‚  The aggravation incorporated the use of operations such as Operation Mongoose, and clandestine operations between Cuba and Florida, demolishing factories, and performing hit-and-run assaults alongside the Cuban coast. America formerly intended to storm the Bay of Pigs another time, but then, the humiliation the country underwent forced it forego the plans. America feared Cuba’s relationship with the Soviet. The operations and America’s harassment strategies point to the fact that America intended to wholly disintegrate Castro’s government. The crisis               President Kennedy, in his October 22nd report to the American people, he referred to the existence of standard and long-range ballistic  artillery  in  Cuba.  Prior to the address, the CIA had indicated the existence of two IRBM and four MRBM instigation sites in diverse stages of manufacture and structured into a minimum of three regiments.  Ã‚  Of these sites, two contingents of eight missile launcher each were supposed to be portable and structured to instigate the MRBMs while people believed the one contingent of eight permanent launchers to be designed for the IRBMs. This evaluation shows or clarifies the true threat that faced America at the time of the crisis. The missiles and rocket launchers showed Soviet’s intent to help Cuba fight off any invasion that America planned to carry out in an objective to end the Castro’s uprising. During the crisis, Cuba harbored about 42,000 Soviet military personnel. In addition, Cuba had about 270,000 armed people, which meant that America would have suffered enormous losses coming after the Vietnam War. An air assault would not have shattered all the missiles installed across Cuba, which meant America would have at the end of the assault forced to open war. This would have provided Cuba and the Soviet with a chance to crush America’s army. However, the war would have meant that Cuba suffer the greatest loss since the war was supposed to be in its soil. Besides, with Cuba and the Soviets prepared to battle to the very last man, a lengthy, prolonged war could well have been anticipated.  Ã‚  Accordingly, Castro,  faced with just an alternative to fight agreed  to  the  employment  of  missiles  in  Cuba. The missiles and rocket launchers showed Soviet’s intent to help Cuba fight off any invasion that America planned to carry out in an objective to end the Castro’s uprising. During the crisis, Cuba harbored about 42,000 Soviet military personnel. In addition, Cuba had about 270,000 armed people, which meant that America would have suffered enormous losses coming after the Vietnam War. An air assault would not have shattered all the missiles installed across Cuba, which meant America would have at the end of the assault forced to open war. This would have provided Cuba and the Soviet with a chance to crush America’s army. However, the war would have meant that Cuba suffer the greatest loss since the war was supposed to be in its soil. Besides, with Cuba and the Soviets prepared to battle to the very last man, a lengthy, prolonged war could well have been anticipated.  Ã‚  Accordingly, Castro,  faced with just an alternative to fight agreed  to  the  emplo yment  of  missiles  in  Cuba. The missiles and rocket launchers showed Soviet’s intent to help Cuba fight off any invasion that America planned to carry out in an objective to end the Castro’s uprising. During the crisis, Cuba harbored about 42,000 Soviet military personnel. In addition, Cuba had about 270,000 armed people, which meant that America would have suffered enormous losses coming after the Vietnam War. An air assault would not have shattered all the missiles installed across Cuba, which meant America would have at the end of the assault forced to open war. This would have provided Cuba and the Soviet with a chance to crush America’s army. However, the war would have meant that Cuba suffer the greatest loss since the war was supposed to be in its soil. Besides, with Cuba and the Soviets prepared to battle to the very last man, a lengthy, prolonged war could well have been anticipated.  Ã‚  Accordingly, Castro,  faced with just an alternative to fight agreed  to  the  emplo yment  of  missiles  in  Cuba. The missiles and rocket launchers showed Soviet’s intent to help Cuba fight off any invasion that America planned to carry out in an objective to end the Castro’s uprising. During the crisis, Cuba harbored about 42,000 Soviet military personnel. In addition, Cuba had about 270,000 armed people, which meant that America would have suffered enormous losses coming after the Vietnam War. An air assault would not have shattered all the missiles installed across Cuba, which meant America would have at the end of the assault forced to open war. This would have provided Cuba and the Soviet with a chance to crush America’s army. However, the war would have meant that Cuba suffer the greatest loss since the war was supposed to be in its soil. Besides, with Cuba and the Soviets prepared to battle to the very last man, a lengthy, prolonged war could well have been anticipated.  Ã‚  Accordingly, Castro,  faced with just an alternative to fight agreed  to  the  emplo yment  of  missiles  in  Cuba. This evaluation shows or clarifies the true threat that faced America at the time of the crisis. The missiles and rocket launchers showed Soviet’s intent to help Cuba fight off any invasion that America planned to carry out in an objective to end the Castro’s uprising. During the crisis, Cuba harbored about 42,000 Soviet military personnel. In addition, Cuba had about 270,000 armed people, which meant that America would have suffered enormous losses coming after the Vietnam War. An air assault would not have shattered all the missiles installed across Cuba, which meant America would have at the end of the assault forced to open war. This would have provided Cuba and the Soviet with a chance to crush America’s army. However, the war would have meant that Cuba suffer the greatest loss since the war was supposed to be in its soil. Besides, with Cuba and the Soviets prepared to battle to the very last man, a lengthy, prolonged war could well have been anticipated.  Ã‚  Accordingly, Castro,  faced with just an alternative to fight agreed  to  the  employment  of  missiles  in  Cuba. Cuba’s Involvement               Cuba was involved in the crisis as much as the Soviet and America were involved. In fact, some people point out that Cuba remained the main antagonist during the entire crisis since America wanted to invade it and the Soviet provided missiles to the country. In addition, since the crisis was tied to the invasion of the Bay of Pigs, Cubans understood that the invasion was between America and Cuba. The Soviet plans to support Cuba were always in ambiguity. On one hand, the Soviet claimed that its aim was to support Cuba from America while Cuba saw it as a support to its interests. The agreement between Cuba and the Soviet saw the Soviet place the missiles to support Cuba. However, the aim of the Soviet to resolve the issue remained ambiguous even to Cubans. The decision to remove the missiles after 13 days demonstrated Soviet’s unwillingness to support â€Å"Little Cuba† as it claimed. This shows that the animosity that existed between America and Cuba continued. Cubans, therefore, saw the Soviets help as more than support against America. In fact, the Soviet sought to repay America’s unkindness for surrounding the Soviet Confederation with missiles and military base. Since Cuba is strategically located near America, the Soviet saw the crisis as a major chance to demonstrate to America its happiness. Khrushchev also intended to use the missiles as bargaining whittles during the U.N. forums and to further its ideals during the Cold War. In this regards, Cuba understood its stand during the crisis, and after the Soviet agreed to America’s terms it was not left with any chance, but to resort to socialism calls. Castro understood all along that America was intent on invading Cuba no because of the crisis, but mainly because of the Cuban Rebellion.               Cubans understood their importance during the crisis; thus, Castro’s administration planned well throughout the crisis. The administration understood that the crisis emanated as a result of Cuba’s calls for socialism and not because of the missiles. In this regards, the government understood that even after agreeing to the terms of the deal between the Soviets and America, it remained free of both countries. However, the administration knew that the crisis still existed since the main issues surrounding the crisis were never resolved. In this regards, Cuba played the most significant role in the progress of the crisis and the conclusion of the crisis six years later. Although most people think that the crisis ended after 13 days, it continued with animosity between America and Cuba rising continually each day. Although Castro denied the claims that he instigated an appeal to place the missiles, he stated during a speech in 1963 that the installat ion of the missiles was a mutual accord between Cuba and the Soviet. However, data shows that Castro instigated a plan that would compel the Soviet to provide the missiles to Cuba. In fact, Castro influenced the activities and actions that led to the Soviets agreement to deploy the missiles to Cuba. The missiles provided Cuba to deter any America’s invasion and reduce the country’s reliance to America. By possessing the missiles, Castro knew that he would retaliate to any America’s oppression especially the oppression that Cuba had suffered for more than 200 years under the hands of America. The lack of any battle during the crisis helped deter any warfare that would have emerged. In addition, had America invaded Cuba, Cuba would have realized guerrilla warfare across the whole nation; thus, the withdrawal of the missiles may have offered a chance for the countries to remain at peace with each other. Conclusion            During the period of the Crisis, people believed that America had attained an enormous triumph. In addition, Cubans believed that there was no resolution in regards to the crisis; thus, they remained the main losers to the crisis. After the agreement between the Soviets and America, the Soviets removed the missiles from Cuba, which left Cuba with no support. This shows that Cuba was solitary in its endeavors during the crisis, and the crisis was nothing but America’s intent to crush socialism in Cuba.   Furthermore, the agreement between the Soviet and America forced Cuba to agree to the requisites of the deal; thus, Castros reputation inside Latin America suffered significantly. However, Cubans understood that America did not win during the crisis since Kennedy did not achieve his goal of overthrowing Castro. Although the Soviet removed the missiles, Castro remained the president. In fact, today, America enforces an economic embargo against Cuba, which sh ows that there was no resolution on the crisis. America still enforces a restriction on Cuba while Castro persists to be a nuisance to U.S aims in the Caribbean. Accordingly, even though Cuba does not enjoy Russia’s economic subventions and military aid, the struggle between America’s egalitarian principles and Castros socialism continues.  Ã‚  While America’s efforts concerning Cuba have realized little victory, it is noticeable that Castro still holds Cuba’s administration, and that communism and an intrinsic mistrust of America remains.               The crisis demonstrates the antagonism and repressions that existed between the three countries. Although people see the war as a supreme battle between America and the Soviet, Cuba’s involvement in the crisis demonstrates that the crisis was between America and Cuba with the help of the Soviet for some times. However, after the agreement to withdraw the missiles the crisis remained a contention between America and Cuba. Indeed, the countries did not resolve the crisis since the animosity between America and Cuba remains to date. Conclusively, the crisis offers a chance for historians to rethink the roles of the country during the crisis. References Chrisp, Peter.  The Cuban Missile Crisis. Milwaukee, WI: World Almanac Library, 2002. Haas, Mark L.. Prospect Theory And The Cuban Missile Crisis.  International Studies Quarterly  45, no. 2 (2001): 241-270. Immell, Myra.  The Cuban Missile Crisis. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2011. Laffey, Mark, and Jutta Weldes. Decolonizing The Cuban Missile Crisis.International Studies Quarterly  52, no. 3 (2008): 555-577. Renshon, Jonathan. Mirroring Risk: The Cuban Missile Estimation.  Intelligence and National Security  24, no. 3 (2009): 315-338. Source document

Ban Spam :: essays research papers fc

Ban Spam   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is a new day at the office, and workers are getting online to check their electronic mail, only to find that it has been over run by unsolicited junk mail. This mail, more commonly referred to as spam has been around since the beginning of the Internet, and according to a recent article, as the Internet has grown, so has spam (†Spam Spam† E.L.) A recent study by Star Internet, based on the typical number of staff spending ten minutes a day checking their mail, indicates that spam costs companies in the U.K. 472 dollars a year per worker, and on a national scale, spam costs U.K. firms 4.6 billion dollars a year (Gold F.A.). This is just one reason why bulk unsolicited (spam) e-mail is costly, time consuming, and should be banned.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The term spam for unsolicited e-mail is believed to have originated from a Monty Python skit in which the dialogue was drowned out by shouting out the word â€Å"spam†(â€Å"How to Avoid† F.A.). This is much the way spam drowns out other messages in in-boxes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although spam is a problem for businesses, it is certainly not limited to them. A large amount of spam mail is targeted at anyone who has an e-mail address, and many adults are therefore concerned at some of the content that is sometimes received with these inconvenient messages. Some spam messages may contain explicit content, such as subject headers that display sexually explicit words and phrases that may be unsuitable for children who have access to the Internet.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Even though spam can contain some sexually explicit material, there are generally twelve spam scams that seem to be popular. According to one article, many spam messages may contain promises of business opportunities, making money scams, work-at-home schemes, health and diet scams, easy money, getting free merchandise, chain letters, getting free merchandise, investment opportunities, cable scrambler kits, guaranteed loans or credit with easy terms, credit repair, and vacation prize promotions (Gardner E.L.). These are the most popular, but certainly not the only spam scams that are out there today.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are many ways to receive spam mail, or get on a spammer’s list. Many times, e-mail addresses that are given out while filling out forms over the Internet end up on a spammer’s list. According to one article, this is generally because spammers use special harvesting software for retrieving e-mail addresses, and many times there isn’t a privacy policy that prevents companies from giving out e-mail addresses to other companies.

Censorship In Europe :: essays research papers

Americans think of Europeans as essentially like themselves. They believe European societies are like their own-rooted in the rule of law, freedom of religion, democratic government, market competition, and an unfettered press. In recent years, however, Europeans have given up an essential liberty: freedom of speech. It is true that in the United States prevailing orthodoxies on some questions are ruthlessly enforced but it is still legal to say just about anything. Not so in much of Europe. In the last decade or so countries we think of as fellow democracies-France, Germany, Switzerland and others-have passed laws that limit free speech for the same crude ideological reasons that drove the brief, unsuccessful vogue of campus speech codes in the United States. Today in Europe there are laws as bad as anything George Orwell could have imagined. In some countries courts have ruled that the facts are irrelevant, and that certain things must not be said whether they are true or false. In others, a defendant in court who tries to explain or defend a forbidden view will be charged on the spot with a fresh offense. Even his lawyer can be fined or go to jail for trying to mount a defense. In one case a judge ordered that a bookseller's entire stock-innocent as well as offending titles-be burned! Just as Eastern Europe is emerging from it, Western Europe has entered the thought-crime era, in a return to the mentality that launched the Inquisition and the wars of religion. It is a tyranny of the left practiced by the very people who profess shock at the tactics of Joseph McCarthy, an exercise of raw power in the service of pure ideology. The desire not merely to debate one's opponents but to disgrace them, muzzle them, fine them, jail them is utterly contrary to the spirit of civilized discourse. It is profoundly disturbing to find this ugly sentiment codified into law in some of the countries we think of as pillars of Western Civilization. At the same time, these laws cannot help but draw attention to the very ideas they forbid. Truth does not generally require the help of censors. There are two subjects about which Europeans can no longer speak freely. One is race and the other is Nazi Germany. "Anti-racism" laws generally take the form of forbidding the expression of opinions that might stir up "hatred" against any racial or ethnic group.

Second Foundation 18. Ghost of a World

Trantor was a world in dregs and rebirth. Set like a faded jewel in the midst of the bewildering crowd of suns at the center of the Galaxy – in the heaps and clusters of stars piled high with aimless prodigality – it alternately dreamed of past and future. Time had been when the insubstantial ribbons of control had stretched out from its metal coating to the very edges of stardom. It had been a single city, housing four hundred billion administrators; the mightiest capital that had ever been. Until the decay of the Empire eventually reached it and in the Great Sack of a century ago, its drooping powers had been bent back upon themselves and broken forever. In the blasting ruin of death, the metal shell that circled the planet wrinkled and crumpled into an aching mock of its own grandeur. The survivors tore up the metal plating and sold it to other planets for seed and cattle. The soil was uncovered once more and the planet returned to its beginnings. In the spreading areas of primitive agriculture, it forgot its intricate and colossal past. Or would have but for the still mighty shards that heaped their massive ruins toward the sky in bitter and dignified silence. Arcadia watched the metal rim of the horizon with a stirring of the heart. The village in which the Palvers lived was but a huddle of houses to her – small and primitive. The fields that surrounded it were golden-yellow, wheat-cIogged tracts. But there, just past the reaching point was the memory of the past, still glowing in unrusted splendor, and burning with fire where the sun of Trantor caught it in gleaming highlights. She had been there once during the months since she had arrived at Trantor. She had climbed onto the smooth, unjointed pavement and ventured into the silent dust-streaked structures, where the light entered through the jags of broken walls and partitions. It had been solidified heartache. It had been blasphemy. She had left, clangingly – running until her feet pounded softly on earth once more. And then she could only look back longingly. She dared not disturb that mighty brooding once more. Somewhere on this world, she knew, she had been born – near the old Imperial Library, which was the veriest Trantor of Trantor. It was the sacred of the sacred; the holy of holies! Of all the world, it alone had survived the Great Sack and for a century it had remained complete and untouched; defiant of the universe. There Hari Seldon and his group had woven their unimaginable web. There Ebling Mis pierced the secret, and sat numbed in his vast surprise, until he was killed to prevent the secret from going further. There at the Imperial Library, her grandparents had lived for ten years, until the Mule died, and they could return to the reborn Foundation. There at the Imperial Library, her own father returned with his bride to find the Second Foundation once again, but failed. There, she had been born and there her mother had died. She would have liked to visit the Library, but Preem Palver shook his round head. â€Å"It's thousands of miles, Arkady, and there's so much to do here. Besides, it's not good to bother there. You know; it's a shrine-â€Å" But Arcadia knew that he had no desire to visit the Library; that it was a case of the Mule's Palace over again. There was this superstitious fear on the part of the pygmies of the present for the relies of the giants of the past. Yet it would have been horrible to feel a grudge against the funny little man for that. She had been on Trantor now for nearly three months and in all that time, he and she – Pappa and Mamma – had been wonderful to her- And what was her return? Why, to involve them in the common ruin. Had she warned them that she was marked for destruction, perhaps? No! She let them assume the deadly role of protectors. Her conscience panged unbearably – yet what choice had she? She stepped reluctantly down the stairs to breakfast. The voices reached her. Preem Palver had tucked the napkin down his shirt collar with a twist of his plump neck and had reached for his poached eggs with an uninhibited satisfaction. â€Å"I was down in the city yesterday, Mamma,† he said, wielding his fork and nearly drowning the words with a capacious mouthful. â€Å"And what is down in the city, Pappa?† asked Mamma indifferently, sitting down, looking sharply about the table, and rising again for the salt. â€Å"Ah, not so good. A ship came in from out Kalgan-way with newspapers from there. It's war there.† â€Å"War! So! Well, let them break their heads, if they have no more sense inside. Did your pay check come yet? Pappa, I'm telling you again. You warn old man Cosker this isn't the only cooperative in the world. It's bad enough they pay you what I'm ashamed to tell my friends, but at least on time they could be!† â€Å"Time; shmime,† said Pappa, irritably. â€Å"Look, don't make me silly talk at breakfast, it should choke me each bite in the throat,† and he wreaked havoc among the buttered toast as he said it. He added, somewhat more moderately, â€Å"The fighting is between Kalgan and the Foundation, and for two months, they've been at it.† His hands lunged at one another in mock-representation of a space fight. â€Å"Um-m-m. And what's doing?† â€Å"Bad for the Foundation. Well, you saw Kalgan; all soldiers. They were ready. The Foundation was not, and so – poof!† And suddenly, Mamma laid down her fork and hissed, â€Å"Fool!† â€Å"Huh?† â€Å"Dumb-head! Your big mouth is always moving and wagging.† She was pointing quickly and when Pappa looked over his shoulder, there was Arcadia, frozen in the doorway. She said, â€Å"The Foundation is at war?† Pappa looked helplessly at Mamma, then nodded. â€Å"And they're losing?† Again the nod. Arcadia felt the unbearable catch in her throat, and slowly approached the table. â€Å"Is it over?† she whispered. â€Å"Over?† repeated Pappa, with false heartiness. â€Å"Who said it was over? In war, lots of things can happen. And†¦ and-â€Å" â€Å"Sit down, darling,† said Mamma, soothingly. â€Å"No one should talk before breakfast. You're not in a healthy condition with no food in the stomach.† But Arcadia ignored her. â€Å"Are the Kalganians on Terminus?† â€Å"No,† said Pappa, seriously. â€Å"The news is from last week, and Terminus is still fighting. This is honest. I'm telling the truth. And the Foundation is still strong. Do you want me to get you the newspapers?† â€Å"Yes!† She read them over what she could eat of her breakfast and her eyes blurred as she read. Santanni and Korell were gone – without a fight. A squadron of the Foundation's navy had been trapped in the sparsely-sunned Ifni sector and wiped out to almost the last ship. And now the Foundation was back to the Four-Kingdom core – the original Realm which had been built up under Salvor Hardin, the first mayor. But still it fought – and still there might be a chance-and whatever happened, she must inform her father. She must somehow reach his ear. She must! But how? With a war in the way. She asked Pappa after breakfast, â€Å"Are you going out on a new mission soon, Mr. Palver?† Pappa was on the large chair on the front lawn, sunning himself. A fat cigar smoldered between his plump fingers and he looked like a beatific pug-dog. â€Å"A mission?† he repeated, lazily. â€Å"Who knows? It's a nice vacation and my leave isn't up. Why talk about new missions? You're restless, Arkady?† â€Å"Me? No, I like it here. You're very good to me, you and Mrs. Palver.† He waved his hand at her, brushing away her words. Arcadia said, â€Å"I was thinking about the war.† â€Å"But don't think about it. What can you do? If it's something you can't help, why hurt yourself over it?† â€Å"But I was thinking that the Foundation has lost most of its farming worlds. They're probably rationing food there.† Pappa looked uncomfortable. â€Å"Don't worry. It'll be all right.† She scarcely listened. â€Å"I wish I could carry food to them, that's what. You know after the Mule died, and the Foundation rebelled, Terminus was just about isolated for a time and General Han Pritcher, who succeeded the Mule for a while was laying siege to it. Food was running awfully low and my father says that his father told him that they only had dry amino-acid concentrates that tasted terrible. Why, one egg cost two hundred credits. And then they broke the siege just in time and food ships came through from Santanni. It must have been an awful time. Probably it's happening all over, now.† There was a pause, and then Arcadia said, â€Å"You know, I'll bet the Foundation would be willing to pay smuggler's prices for food now. Double and triple and more. Gee, if any co-operative, f'r instance, here on Trantor took over the job, they might lose some ships, but, I'll bet they'd be war millionaires before it was over. The Foundation Traders in the old days used to do that all the time. There'd be a war, so they'd sell whatever was needed bad and take their chances. Golly, they used to make as much as two million dollars out of one trip – profit. That was just out of what they could carry on one ship, too.† Pappa stirred. His cigar had gone out, unnoticed. â€Å"A deal for food, huh? Hm-m-m- But the Foundation is so far away.† â€Å"Oh, I know. I guess you couldn't do it from here. If you took a regular liner you probably couldn't get closer than Massena or Smushyk, and after that you'd have to hire a small scoutship or something to slip you through the lines.† Pappa's hand brushed at his hair, as he calculated. *** Two weeks later, arrangements for the mission were completed. Mamma railed for most of the time – First, at the incurable obstinacy with which he courted suicide. Then, at the incredible obstinacy with which he refused to allow her to accompany him. Pappa said, â€Å"Mamma, why do you act like an old lady. I can't take you. It's a man's work. What do you think a war is? Fun? Child's play?† â€Å"Then why do you go? Are you a man, you old fool – with a leg and half an arm in the grave. Let some of the young ones go – not a fat bald-head like you?† â€Å"I'm not a bald-head,† retorted Pappa, with dignity. â€Å"I got yet lots of hair. And why should it not be me that gets the commission? Why, a young fellow? Listen, this could mean millions?† She knew that and she subsided. Arcadia saw him once before he left. She said, â€Å"Are you going to Terminus?† â€Å"Why not? You say yourself they need bread and rice and potatoes. Well, I'll make a deal with them, and they'll get it.† â€Å"Well, then – just one thing: If you're going to Terminus, could you†¦ would you see my father?† And Pappa's face crinkled and seemed to melt into sympathy, â€Å"Oh – and I have to wait for you to tell me. Sure, I'll see him. I'll tell him you're safe and everything's O.K., and when the war is over, I'll bring you back.† â€Å"Thanks. I'll tell you how to find him. His name is Dr. Toran Darell and he lives in Stanmark. That's just outside Terminus City, and you can get a little commuting plane that goes there. We're at 55 Channel Drive.† â€Å"Wait, and I'll write it down.† â€Å"No, no,† Arcadia's arm shot out. â€Å"You mustn't write anything down. You must remember – and find him without anybody's help.† Pappa looked puzzled. Then he shrugged his shoulders. â€Å"All right, then. It's 55 Channel Drive in Stanmark, outside Terminus City, and you commute there by plane. All right?† â€Å"One other thing.† â€Å"Yes?† â€Å"Would you tell him something from me?† â€Å"Sure.† â€Å"I want to whisper it to you.† He leaned his plump cheek toward her, and the little whispered sound passed from one to the other. Pappa's eyes were round. â€Å"That's what you want me to say? But it doesn't make sense.† â€Å"He'll know what you mean. Just say I sent it and that I said he would know what it means. And you say it exactly the way I told you. No different. You won't forget it?† â€Å"How can I forget it? Five little words. Look-â€Å" â€Å"No, no.† She hopped up and down in the intensity of her feelings. â€Å"Don't repeat it. Don't ever repeat it to anyone. Forget all about it except to my father. Promise me.† Pappa shrugged again. â€Å"I promise! All right!† â€Å"All right,† she said, mournfully, and as he passed down the drive to where the air taxi waited to take him to the spaceport, she wondered if she had signed his death warrant. She wondered if she would ever see him again. She scarcely dared to walk into the house again to face the good, kind Mamma. Maybe when it was all over, she had better kill herself for what she had done to them.

Liberalism vs. Antiliberism essays

Liberalism vs. Antiliberism essays Political scientists have long debated the proper course to consider, resolve, and overcome conflict so to maintain order. In particular, the conflicts of the individual vs. society the rights of the individual vs. the rights he or she must relinquish in order to be a part of society have generated much controversy. Man has proved to be an insatiable creature, perpetually hungry for that which he does not have. As mans desires grow, so does his want for money and power. The quest for such, which represent societal status, consumes his life. Indeed, man is inherently selfish. He holds an innate disposition against sharing wealth and power with others. However, this conflict must be resolved in order for man to live in society. Through the ages, many have tried to propose an incisive solution to this problem. To fit the political and socioeconomic conditions of the time, those solutions have employed and manipulated the ideas of past thinkers. Two starkly contrasting ideolo gies emerged: liberalism and antiliberalism. In this paper, I will reference several prominent thinkers of both ideologies. I will highlight their ideas within the historical context they formulated them. This analysis will serve to contrast the differences between liberalism and antiliberalism. Liberalism is based on the philosophy of freedom and equal rights. From its rise as an anti-Roman Catholic reaction, it is a repudiation of absolute rule. Liberalism called for the liberation of those oppressed under absolute rule; it is the belief that all human beings possess rights. Moreover, it asserts that humans are endowed with the ability to realize their rights. As rational and equal human beings, individuals have the ability to recognize problems and solve them. This enables a natural progressive improvement in society. John Locke is considered as the founder of liberalist political thought. In fact, Lockian political tho...

Defining And Analysing Groupwork Social Work Essay Essay Example

Defining And Analysing Groupwork Social Work Essay Essay Example Defining And Analysing Groupwork Social Work Essay Paper Defining And Analysing Groupwork Social Work Essay Paper Groups may be defined in many ways, so supplying an absolute definition of a group, as with much of the theory around group work, is extremely debatable and contestable. However for the intents of discoursing groupwork within a context of working with immature people we may specify a group as a little assemblage of immature people. Group work may simplistically be described as the survey and application of the procedures and results experienced when a little group comes together. Konopka ( 1963 ) defines groupwork as a method of societal work that is utilised in order to `help persons to heighten their societal operation through purposeful group experiences, and to get by more efficaciously with their personal, group or community problems` . This definition shows a tradition within groupwork of assisting persons with jobs. Brown provides a modernized and more comprehensive definition of group work ( 1994, p.8 ) . He states that `groupwork provides a context in which persons help each other ; it is a method of assisting groups every bit good as assisting persons ; and it can enable persons and groups to influenceand changepersonal, group, organizational and community problems` ( original accent ) . He goes on to separate between `relatively little and neighbourhood centred` work and `macro, social and political approaches` within community work, explicating that merely the former may be decently classified as groupwork. Therefore the function of groupwork can be seen as one which places accent on sharing of ideas, thoughts, jobs and activities. Functions within Groups Each person within a group has a function to play in the development of that group to a greater or lesser extent. Through observation, apprehension of difference, consciousness of personal resourcesand effectual communicating ( Douglas, 1995 ) , each member may impact group procedures and single emotions. Functions develop within groups both through formal assignment and because of the personal features and interpersonal relationships that develop between members. Roles which develop can be constructive and back up the group and its members in accomplishing its ends, or can be destructive and work against the overall group aims. Persons within the group can develop several functions and at times these may struggle. For illustration a PTV member who was designated as leaderfor a specific undertaking, besides played a clownand was fond of practical gags. The gulling about led to a deficiency of trust from other group members making a struggle with the leading function. As the group begins to develop an apprehension of four things can be observed: Observation: the manner we behave is based upon what we observe of ourselves, and what we make of others and their reactions to us. Differences: personally and socially generated ; the effects they have on behaviors and apprehension. Resources: often stemming from difference but are the beginning of possible power for a group and an person. Communication: considered to be natural but capable to many barriers that remain mostly unknown unless a witting attempt is made to happen them: ( Douglas, 1995, p. 80-97 ) A Through supportive functions, groups may play a portion in cut downing subjugation generated externally to the group. Groupwork can be used as a medium for laden groups to `help these groups adjust in society` , and furthermore to assist society to set towards these groups. This can be achieved by `individual rehabilitation` in which we can `help persons to set to societal life and manage aˆÂ ¦ tenseness aˆÂ ¦ addition assurance, high ego esteem` , and in `getting and maintaining employment etc.` . `Societal or community rehabilitation` involves `helping the society to hold meaningful contact` with persons and groups which are discriminated against and laden ( Osei-Hwedie, Mwansa, and Mufune, 1990, p. 188 ) . Preston-Shoot describes groupwork making a `sense of belonging and common identity` promoting `the formation of relationships which foster common designation and influence` , therefore feelings of isolation and uniqueness with issues of difference and subjugation may be reduced. Besides, the group may be encouraged to utilize its internal resources to travel towards single or group `problem-resolution` , cut downing feelings of weakness, constructing self deserving, and detering worker dependence ( Preston-Shoot, 1987, p. 6-28 ) . Smith concurs with this position of the suitableness of groupwork, saying `Groups are obvious sites of interaction and within them a sense of connection or community with others can be fostered` ( Smith, 1994, p.111 ) . This `connectedness` is a valuable tool with which to dispute favoritism and subjugation, for as Piven and Cloward argue, it is merely when we act jointly that alteration can get down ( Piven and Cloward, 1993 ) . Decision: Group Work Double Edged Sword? To province that group work is non an exact scientific discipline is something of an understatement. As we have seen, it is debatable to even specify what is meant by a group as no absolute definition exists. Similarly most, if non all, constructs within group work theory can be, and are, contested. Groups are highly of import in the lives of all persons. Johnson and Johnson ( 1975, p1-2 ) province `many of our ends can be achieved merely with the cooperation and coordination of others` . However `the success of any group depends on the ability of its members to interchange thoughts freely and to experience involved in the life and determinations of the group` ( Massallay, 1990 ) . All groups within young person work have ends, i.e. a future province of personal businesss. It is of import that short term and long term ends are set realistically if the group is to develop and work efficaciously. These maps are achieved through the way of leading and the development of single functions within each group. A group is said to be successful if it: 1.A A A A A accomplishes group undertakings 2.A A A A A maintains the group internally, and ; 3.A A A A A develops and adapts to better effectivity. ( Massallay, 1990 ) Groupwork can be used as an effectual tool for many young person work state of affairss, non least of which is as a medium for disputing subjugation both within groups and persons. Therefore, we have seen the outgrowth and development of misss issue groups and black immature people s undertakings that offer common support every bit good as working to dispute subjugation. Yet we have seen that through the development phases of a groups life there are many chances for persons to develop and concentrate oppressive behavior internally within a group. A appreciation of theoretical apprehension of group behavior and operation can assist to explicate single and group behavior, and assist us to accomplish our ultimate purpose as young person workers, that of informal instruction. It is of import non to handle group work as an exact scientific discipline with unequivocal replies. Indeed many of the questionswe must inquire ourselves are ill-defined, therefore the answersare a best conjecture, or a benchmark that we can develop on and work about. Finally, allow us see briefly the historical context of group work development and the intent it has non merely within young person work, but society at big. As Taylor reminds us `A minute s contemplation shows that the societal groupwork beloved of liberalism is the merchandise of the American capitalist concern to develop more sophisticated direction techniques` ( Taylor, 1987, p. 140 ) . Let us be careful to utilize group work to advance democracy and non fall into the trap of utilizing group work as yet another tool for advancing societal control in a capitalistic province. A © Student Youth Work Online 1999-2001 Please ever cite the writer of this page. References A ; Recommended Reading Adair, J. ( 1988 ) Effective LeadershipLondon: Pan Barker, L. L. , Cegala, D. J. , Kibler, R. J. and Wahlers, K. J. Groups In ProcessNew Jersey, USA: Prentice-Hall Chemical bond, T. ( 1986 ) Games for Social and Life SkillsLondon: Hutchinson Brandes, D. and Phillips, H ( 1977 ) Gamesters HandbookGreat Britain: Stanley Thornes Brown, A. ( 1994 ) Groupwork 3rdEditionGreat Yarmouth: Ashgate Publishing Dearling, A. and Armstrong, H. ( 1994 ) The New Youth Games BookGreat Britain: Russell House Printing Douglas, T. ( 1983 ) Groups: Understanding Peoples Gathered TogetherLondon: Routledge Douglas, T. ( 1995 ) Survival In Groups: The Basics of Group MembershipBuckingham: Open University Press Dynes, R. ( 1990 ) Creative Games in GroupworkGreat Britain: Winslow Imperativeness Garland, J. Jones, H. and Kolody, R. ( 1968 ) `A theoretical account for phases of development in societal workgroups` in Bernstein, S. ( Ed. ) Explorations in GroupworkBoston: Boston University School of Social Work Heap, K. ( 1977 ) Group Theory for Social WorkersGreat Britain: Pergamon Press Konopka, G. ( 1963 ) Social Group Work: a Helping Process Englewood Cliffs, N.J. : Prentice Hall Leech, N. and Wooster, A. D. ( 1986 ) Personal and Social Skills A Practical Approach for the ClassroomGreat Britain: RMEP Massallay, J. L. ( 1990 ) `Methods, Techniques and Skills of Youth and Community Work: Community Action and Group Work` Chapter 4. In Osei-Hwedie, K. , Mwansa, L-K. and Mufune, P. ( Eds. ) Young person and Community Work PracticeZambia: Mission Imperativeness Osei-Hwedie, K. , Mwansa, L-K. and Mufune, P. ( 1990 ) Young person and Community Work Practice: Methods, Techniques and SkillsZambia: Mission Imperativeness Piven, F. F. and Cloward, R. A. ( 1993 ) Regulating the Poor: The Functions of Public Welfare USA: Vintage Books Preston-Shoot, M. ( 1987 ) Effective GroupworkHampshire: Macmillan Rogers, C. R. ( 1967 ) `The procedure of basic brush group` In Bugental, J. F. T. ( Ed. ) TheChallenges of Human PsychologyNew York: McGraw-Hill Sessoms, H. Massachusetts, D. and Stevenson, J. L. ( 1981 ) Leadership and Group Dynamics in Recreation ServicesUSA: Allyn and Bacon Smith, M. K. ( 1994 ) Local Education: Community, Conversation, PraxisGreat Britain: Open University Press Taylor, T. ( 1987 ) `Youth Workers as Character Builders` Chapter 9. In Jeffs, T and Smith, M. ( Eds. ) Youth WorkBasingstoke: MacMillan Tuckman, B. W. ( 1965 ) `Developmental Sequences in Small Groups` in Psychological BulletinNo. 63 p. 384-399 hypertext transfer protocol: //youthworkcentral.tripod.com/sean3.htm

Comparative Newspaper Project Essays

Comparative Newspaper Project Essays Comparative Newspaper Project Essay Comparative Newspaper Project Essay In this investigation I am going to look at the difference between two types of newspaper: tabloids, and broadsheets. I could compare the number of letters in a word, the proportion of text to images, or the perhaps the number of words with 3 or more syllables, but I have chosen to compare the lengths of sentences. This is because I think broadsheets will have longer sentences on average, as they are more intellectual newspapers. They are not like tabloids that are easy to dip into for news for busy working class people, but are there specifically for people who want to, and have the time to, to read the news fully, and in more depth. In addition, this will not be too complicated to find out, as, for example, finding the proportion of text to images is more open to error.For this investigation I am going to take a sample size of 175 for two different newspapers, one national tabloid, and one national broadsheet, the parent population being sentence lengths in national daily newspaper s across the country. Im assuming that all broadsheets and all tabloids are similar. Ive used a sample size of 175, as it is large enough to be reasonably accurate, but not too large that it would take too long to collect the data. It is also quite sensible, as I am collecting data in a group of 7, so everyone can count 25 sentences from each newspaper.To make this sample more reliable, each sample is going to be selected at random, but first Im going to choose two newspapers at random using a random number generator on my calculator. (Listed alphabetically to ensue fairness.)I also used this method to (Ran# * 7) top generate the day on which to buy the relevant newspapers (including numbers less than 1 this time).The way in which I selected each sentence was as follows:E.g. Ran# = 0 . 1 2 3 4 5Disregarding any number generated that does not work.E.g. 0 . 9 4 3 1 2 page number too high0 . 1 6 9 0 8 column number too high0 . 3 4 2 9 9 line number too high0 . 0 7 0 4 1 no column selec tedSee separate sheets for lists of raw dataAnother sampling method I considered was to count all the sentences in one particular article for each paper, i.e. front-page story. A disadvantage to this is that it wouldnt be random, but I would be certain that a topic of the same importance and subject was measured. However, this would pose problems such as there may be more sentences in the Broadsheet article than in the Tabloid article. My method ensures that the same numbers of sentences are counted, and the randomness ensues fairness amongst which articles and adverts are looked at, and which are not.Calculating Distribution Measurements:See separate sheet Distribution for TelegraphSee separate sheet Distribution for SunMean (Telegraph):=21.5Mean (Sun):= 18.2Variance (Telegraph):= 141.7127= 141.71Variance (Sun):= 57.24428= 57.24Standard Deviation (Telegraph):= 11.90431= 11.90Standard Deviation (Sun):= 7.565995= 7.57It is clear that the sample of sentences from the Telegraph has a larger mean than the sample of sentences from the Sun. Suggesting that the sentences, on average, are longer in the Telegraph. However this is not conclusive, so further calculations will have to be made. The Telegraph also has a larger standard deviation and variance, meaning that the data is more spread out away from the mean, and the Suns sentences are more consistent in length; which is further evidenced in the diagram below.Box and Whisker Plots: (using medians, upper quartiles and lower quartiles calculated from separate stem and leaf diagrams)Telegraph:Sun:Stem and Leaf Diagrams:See separate sheet Stem and Leaf DiagramsThese diagrams, again, show the fact that there are longer sentences in the Telegraph, however, they bring new information to light. As I had expected, the data has a roughly normal distribution, in both cases. However, the data from both newspapers is slightly positively skewed. To look at this in more detail, I will draw a frequency density graphs.Frequency Density Graphs:Telegraph:Class IntervalfFromToClass WidthF.D.0-935-0.59.51035/10=3.5010-14239.514.5523/5=4.6015-192614.520.5526/5=5.2020-242320.524.5523/5=4.6025-292524.529.5525/5=5.0030-341829.534.5518/5=3.6035-542534.554.52025/20=1.25Sun:Class IntervalfFromToClass WidthF.D.0-924-0.59.51024/10=2.4010-14219.514.5521/5=4.2015-195514.520.5555/5=11.0020-244120.524.5541/5=8.2025-292324.529.5523/5=4.6030-34729.534.557/5=1.4035-54434.554.5204/20=0.20See separate sheet Frequency Density GraphsThese frequency density graphs show that The graphs do look quite sensible, partly due to the sample size being so large.Parent Populations:To make these results more definite, I need to apply what I have already found out, into predicting the mean, standard deviation and variance of the parent population, British national newspapers.The sample mean () is a good, unbiased estimator of the mean of the parent population (). Therefore I can predict that the means of the parent populations are as follow s:Mean:Broadsheets (Telegraph) 21.486Tabloids (Sun) 18.217However, the sample variance () is not an unbiased estimator of the variance of the parent population (). As is not known, then an estimate is used instead.of parent populationStandard deviation:Broadsheets (Telegraph) 11.9384711Tabloids (Sun) 7.587710231Variance:Broadsheets (Telegraph)Tabloids (Sun)Confidence Intervals:This graph shows the distribution of the sample means, that I can assume has an approximately normal distribution due to the central limit theorem, see later. To find a confidence interval, of say 95%, means that I can be 95% sure that the mean of the parent population is between the value on the left and the value on the right.Telegraph:Estimate of parent population:= 11.9384711Standard error1.96*0.902=1.76792I am 95% confident that the mean of the parent population, lies between 19.72 and 23.25.Standard error2.17*0.902=1.95734I am 97% confident that the mean of the parent population, lies between 19.53 and 2 3.44.Standard error2.326*0.902=2.098052I am 98% confident that the mean of the parent population, lies between 19.39 and 23.58.Sun:Estimate of parent population:= 7.587710231Standard error1.96*0.574=1.12504I am 95% confident that the mean of the parent population, lies between 17.09 and 19.34.Standard error2.17*0.574=1.24558I am 97% confident that the mean of the parent population, lies between 16.97 and 19.46.Standard error2.326*0.574=1.335124I am 98% confident that the mean of the parent population, lies between 16.88 and 19.55.The 95% confidence intervals do not overlap. I then thought I would try and calculate these as accurate as I could without them overlapping, as this would mean that Broadsheets mean sentences are clearly longer than tabloids. The 97% intervals do not overlap, but the 98% intervals do. As a result, I can be 97% that Broadsheet means are longer than Tabloid means as they do not overap. Therefore I can conclude that the mean sentence length of British national broadsheets is nearly certain to be longer than that of the national tabloids. This supports my initial hypothesis that broadsheets have longer sentences on average. Because Also, the data was positively skewed. This was becauseThis investigation, although the data was collected randomly and fairly, may not be 100% accurate. This may be because of many things. 7 people were responsible for data collection, and although we discussed the way in which we were going to do this beforehand, I cannot be sure that every person collected the data in the same way. A limitation that I had was that I only looked at one tabloid and one broadsheet. The newspapers that we selected may not be typical of those kinds of paper, so it would have been an advantage to sample more papers. If I were to repeat this investigation, or extend it I would sample more newspapers, but it was not possible to do it this time because it would be so time-consuming. If it were feasible to collect data like this for ma ny samples, then Id plot an accurate graph for the means of the means of the sample, which would be normally distributed, as long as the sample were large enough The Central Limit Theorem states that If the sample size is large enough then the distribution of the sample means is approximately Normal, irrespective of the distribution of the parent population. It would then be easier to predict more accurately the mean of the parent populations.To develop this investigation, I can use the data already collected to find out other information, such as how many sentences from a sample of, say, 100 chosen from a tabloid newspaper at random are 24 lines long or more. To do this I am assuming that the population is normal.

Merger Control Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Merger Control - Essay Example In order to ensure free competition in the Single Market, agreements which not only have a significant effect on the trade between the Member States but also prevent, restrict or distort competition in the Single Market are prohibited by Article 81. Prohibition of behaviour which discourages competition is described in Article 81 (1) of the EC Treaty. In respect of investigations relating to mergers, to determine whether Article 81 EC will be applcable and to justify exceptions to the rule that there exists a distinction between merger control and the general competition law, a casual link must be established between the merger and the restriction of competition. In the absence of such a link, "the relevant coordination of the participants must be assessed in a separate proceeding under Article 81 (1) EC rather than as part of the merger control investigation under the E.C.M.R." An assessment under Article 81 of the EC, leads to the stoppage of the merger from going through and this constitutes an early attack on the parties. Investigation under Article 81 EC results in leaving the concentration untouched and this necessitates the intervention of the European Commission to correct this behaviour. ... The European Commission, while analyzing a merger under Article 81 (1) of the EC, considers in particular whether "two or more participating companies retain to a significant extent activities in the same market as the joint venture, or in a market which is downstream or upstream from that of the joint venture, or in a neighbouring market closely related to the relevant market." The final issue to be decided is whether the coordination, resulting from the creation of the joint venture, enables the participants to eliminate competition in respect of a major portion of the products or services being dealt with. The interstate clause defines the boundary in-between the areas respectively covered by the law of the Member States and the Community law. Agreements which do not affect trade between member states are not covered by Article 81 EC. These agreements are the exclusive domain of the national authorities. This basic test of whether or not interstate trade was affected or not was dealt with by the E.C.J. in Socit Technique Minire v. Maschinenbau Ulm1, the E.C.J. held that "it must be possible to foresee with a sufficient degree of probability on the basis of a set of objective factors of law or of fact that the agreement in question may have an influence, direct or indirect, actual or potential, on the pattern of trade between Member States." In respect of B2Bs, the test developed in Socit Technique Minire v. Maschinenbau Ulm, is apparently cleared without much difficulty, because of the type of the platforms, which function by utilizing the Internet. It is required by Article 81 (1) EC for every agreement to have as its objective or effect the prevention, restriction or distortion of fair competition. "The E.C.J. has held that these

Communication in an Organization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Communication in an Organization - Essay Example However, those with a good communication, they are able to overcome most of the hurdles that might be faced in the organization. Having effective form of communication in an organization is very important to both the employer and employees to maintain an essential relationship between them. Incase anything needs to be done in the organization; the manager has to pass the information to the employees. This information has to be passed effectively or else, any breakdown will result in the poor communication thus affecting the whole system. A good communication takes place when the manager has got some tips on how to effectively communicate with his employees. Therefore, it can be correctly argued that with good communication, the organization will be faced with few or no chances of misunderstanding and misrepresentation, thus reducing the cases of management problems. Another importance of good communication to be considered is that it is an important tool that can be used to motivate the employees in the organization. Poor communication in the organization has been the main cause of conflict between the employees and the management thus resulting in too low morale among the employees during the working period. To increase the morale, the managers should be able to clarify to employees what is to be done and how well to be executed, and as well what can be done to improve their motivation at work. A manager can outline the company objectives to the employees so that they are able to merge them with their personal objectives so that they have a common goal for the organization. Employees can use communication to air their grievances to their seniors or the management. A speedy and effective communication in the organization helps the employees to avoid such cases as delays and misunderstandings in the organization. In the end, it is possible that with this, there will always be harmony in the organization, particularly between the employees and the employers. Communication in the organization can either be verbal or written. Written communication needs to be clear and precise in order to avoid any cases of misinterpretation of the information. Written communication is advantageous as it provides a record for future reference and allows the employees to put their comments or suggestions in writing, which it can also be found for future reference. Good communication in the organization can be a very important factor in creating a stronger relationship as well improving the bottom line. "The 2005/2006 Communications ROI Study conducted by Watson Wyatt Worldwide found that between 2000 and 2004, companies with the most effective employee communication programs returned 57 percent more to their shareholders than companies with the least effective communications programs", (http://www.ceridian.com/myceridian/connection/content/1,4268,13444-60420,00.html para 2). It has thus been found out that communication is important in driving superior performance of the organization. This is due to various reasons. One is that, with good communication, the employees feel that they have a certain connection to the business, in which, it will be possible for them to understand their actions within the organization and thus be in position to support it. This can as well be very important to the new employees as they will be able to adapt easily to the company's culture. Furthermore, good

In depth analysis about article Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

In depth analysis about article - Essay Example The "instrumental view" implies that the right is important for the accomplishment of the deed but if it is not fulfilled, there is no moral issue. The "constraint view" obliges that the right be fulfilled without taking into account moral issues. Gasoline has to be purchased by the end user at the price it is being sold. The "goal view" differs as it is intrinsically important but it is not required. It is considered essential if the goal is to be completed, taking into account the infringement of other peoples fulfillment of their personal rights. The goal view encompasses moral accounting. Dual roles of rights exist where some rights may be intrinsically important and instrumentally valuable: the right to be free from hunger, the right to work. These imply the duality of the instrumental and goal view. The intrinsic value of a right is subjective and can be considered positive or negative. All moral assessments of a right must include the political, social and moral acceptation and consequences. Starvation is in relation to the structuring of property rights. In simplistic terms, the right to property is the right to food. Henry George said "Give the product to the producer". The Neoclassical theory does not take into account casual influences. The classical labor theory ignores internal conflicts; and the socio/psychological theory does not take into account the level of production. Starvation must take into account a system of encompassing all property right theories which encompasses also the positive and negative intrinsic moral values. One of the principle causes of famine is the lack of a legal system of property rights or entitlements. The entitlement approach is the "endowment" which includes man power, fields, factories, labor, etc.; and exchange entitlement mapping of production or trade (production and distribution channels). If the system does not produce enough food or the distribution of food is poorly managed famines

Carol-Columbia-essay2,3-0923-ec 19970 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Carol-Columbia-essay2,3-0923-ec 19970 - Essay Example The case was not much different with the ‘Standard Translation Planning and Management System’ (TPMS), a tool for managing the IBM globalization and localization process. The generation system set as per the standard protocols of the related technology, developed by a team of engineers from Egypt, failed poorly with regard to utility, steadily affecting customer satisfaction. In 2007, I was appointed as Manager of a new team with the responsibility of renovating the existing system and developing a Next Generation TPMS .An extensive research into the technicalities of the system, and upon taking the opinion of the clients, I could detect four major drawbacks of the ‘standard’ system .They were ‘very slow performance’, ‘lesser customer utility’, ‘too complicated advanced features’ and an ‘unfriendly user interface’. A shift in the focus from the theoretical technology standards to very practical customer friendliness was the basic change needed. The primary attention in the architecture of the new system was to select tools as per user’s requirement. On a customer based investigation, some users required the replacement of ‘desktop application’ with ‘web application’ so as to enjoy a clean application added with the ease to use. As the others’ concern was system response time, they opted for desktop application which was faster than the web application. A trial to integrate the requirements of this wide range of customers gave us the thought of blending both the applications which was quite new to the knowledge base and expertise of IBM. The product was to be formulated based on practical mix of both the tools. The challenge was to bridge the standard framework and the practical architectural tools. The effort started with a feasibility study and I gradually led the process of prototype development. Finally we invented a desktop web-client architecture which ensured

Senior Project Team Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Senior Project Team - Essay Example The business plan will provide a foundation upon which future plans can be built with all of the business goals in mind and with a clear direction in which the company can journey. In creating a business plan, the first recommended course of actions is for the company to set on paper the mission of the company. Creating a mission statement allows a company to provide an overall goal through which all other goals can be measured and assessed. The mission statement would include ideas about the values and purposes that the business intends for being in business. This creates a doorway to understanding why the business exists. As business decisions are made, the mission statement creates a centered platform from which those decisions will support the goals that are being set for the company. Taking the time to create a solid mission statement of the business is highly recommended as a first step towards creating a workable business plan that allows for the goals of the company to be ach ieved. Through this mission statement it will be clear when the company is meandering off point, heading towards an outcome that is not really a part of the intended future of the company. It is highly recommended that this be the first step towards creating a more organized set of goals for the company. The important goal that will be achieved through creating the business plan is an organized and ordered set of goals that can be formulated through specified strategies. When a company does not adhere to a set of strategies, eventually it will wander into a trap that will negatively affect their overall performance. Ordered and organized strategies will prevent the company from meandering into a trap that is off mission and outside of the goals that are intended. Strategy is the final step before implementing a plan towards a goal. The goal must be identified with the strategy to meet that goal then created. Through a well organized business plan, the best strategies for a company w ill be revealed and goals can be met in ways that will have wonderful and surprising results. It is not the path towards the goal that should be full of surprises, but the results of meeting the goal so that the best possible outcome can be achieved. In recommending that Can-Go create a business plan, the consultants are looking towards the best possible future for the company as it designs its set of goals and creates strategies through which to meet them. The mission statement will provide the company with a commonly understood meaning so that all the ideas that the employees bring to the table can be assessed and goals can be created towards meeting those ideas that fall into the purpose that has been designated through the mission statement. Once the ideas are assessed and created into goals, tasks can be designed to meet those goals. Goals become the functional outcome of the business plan, creating a framework in which strategy can be set. The one thing that must be remembered in creating a business plan is that it is flexible and will change as the business changes and grows. While a static mission statement is best, the details that surround that mission statement will provide for the expected growth that a company will achieve. The goals of a company will change as expected outcomes are met and new goals are created towards a bigger and

Carol-Columbia-essay2,3-0923-ec 19970 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Carol-Columbia-essay2,3-0923-ec 19970 - Essay Example The case was not much different with the ‘Standard Translation Planning and Management System’ (TPMS), a tool for managing the IBM globalization and localization process. The generation system set as per the standard protocols of the related technology, developed by a team of engineers from Egypt, failed poorly with regard to utility, steadily affecting customer satisfaction. In 2007, I was appointed as Manager of a new team with the responsibility of renovating the existing system and developing a Next Generation TPMS .An extensive research into the technicalities of the system, and upon taking the opinion of the clients, I could detect four major drawbacks of the ‘standard’ system .They were ‘very slow performance’, ‘lesser customer utility’, ‘too complicated advanced features’ and an ‘unfriendly user interface’. A shift in the focus from the theoretical technology standards to very practical customer friendliness was the basic change needed. The primary attention in the architecture of the new system was to select tools as per user’s requirement. On a customer based investigation, some users required the replacement of ‘desktop application’ with ‘web application’ so as to enjoy a clean application added with the ease to use. As the others’ concern was system response time, they opted for desktop application which was faster than the web application. A trial to integrate the requirements of this wide range of customers gave us the thought of blending both the applications which was quite new to the knowledge base and expertise of IBM. The product was to be formulated based on practical mix of both the tools. The challenge was to bridge the standard framework and the practical architectural tools. The effort started with a feasibility study and I gradually led the process of prototype development. Finally we invented a desktop web-client architecture which ensured

Annotate bibliography Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Annotate bibliography - Essay Example Thus, all the authors were accredited medical practitioners in wellness programs. Consequently, all the articles selected were secondary sources since information pertaining to workplace wellness programs were derived from pre existing data of existing employer workplace programs. The article delves into the identification of risk factors affecting employee health, and consequently formulating appropriate mitigation mechanisms that are concomitant to workplace lifestyle and logical change process. Moreover, the authors have cited employer initiatives for actively involving and engaging workers in the wellness program. The sole aim is for workers to have a healthier personal outlook, minimize workplace stress and better working environment. Consequently, intervention wellness programs highlighted include the creation of health education plan against smoking, healthy nutrition choice, weight loss program, control of alcohol consumption, and individual stress reduction regiments. Lastly, the article defines the ultimate goals employee wellness programs. These are to increase employer and employee satisfaction through the decrease in absenteeism, enhanced productivity, and better interpersonal relationship between all the actors in the work environment. The article reiterates the importance of wellness programs to both employees and community at large. Consequently, the authors state that workplace health and wellness programs extends to the community by raising awareness on preventive measures for common diseases, like diabetes, obesity, cardio vascular disease, and high blood pressure. Furthermore, Edelman et al. emphasize on the importance of creating wellness as well as motivating employees to participate in the program. Thus, the authors recommend employee programs such as flexible work hours, sufficient break periods, psychosocial support, and reward systems for workers actively involved in the wellness

Chapter 2 - research methodology Essay Example for Free

Chapter 2 research methodology Essay Aim and Objectives. The aim of the research is to undertake an analysis of the Chinese banking industry systems, processes and products through a case study of Bank of China and HSBC, London. Objectives. The research objectives are as follows :- 1. Assess the overall state of the Chinese banking systems, processes and products. 2. Evaluate implementation of systems, practices and processes of the modern banking industry. 3. Evaluate areas for further growth and development by Chinese banks. This chapter aims to illustrate the methodology of the research. It describes; common research philosophies, research approaches and the research strategy. Veal (2000) has described research as â€Å"systematic and careful inquiry and search for the truth† or an investigation into a subject to discover facts. What is Research? Research is a well defined area of study of a particular problem or issue in its totality or in specific to a particular area of concern. (Veal, 2000). Research should entail the following characteristics, which will be kept in mind by the author while evaluating the subject (Morgan, 2000):- (a) Systematic collection of data. (b) Analytical interpretation of data. (c) Developing a theory and conclusion. The Research Philosophy Modern research has three models; these are positivism, realism and interpretivism. (Cantrell, D. C. (n. d. )). Positivism Positivism entails a scientific stance for research and interpretation of data. Thus only those phenomenon which are observable and measurable are regarded as knowledge. Positivists maintain an independent and objective stance. (Cantrell, D. C. (n. d. )). Phenomenology (Interpretivism) This is opposite of the positivistic approach and is known as interpretivism or phenomenology. (Cantrell, D. C. (n. d. )). Though positivistic and interpretivism paradigm are two extremes, most researchers use elements of both practices, which is implied in realism. This approach is considered the most appropriate for the project as the writer will be carrying out a comparative analysis of the Chinese and the British Banking system with a case study of the Bank of China vis a vis HSBC, London. Since banking systems are not just financial and economic systems but involve social issues in the context of a broader socio-political environment, a realistic approach to research is considered the most suitable. Research Approach There are two strands, which can be adopted, deductive and inductive. The deductive approach is used when a hypothesis is developed and the research design has to test that hypothesis. The deductive approach is amplified by means of a diagram at Figure 1 (Trochim, 2000). Figure 1 On the other hand the inductive approach is related to qualitative data, as a sample used in a case study as contrasting to the large quantum of data which is used in the deductive approach. A theory is said to be developed from data collection in this approach. A diagram showing the inductive approach is at Figure 2 below (Trochim, 2000):-Figure 2 The dynamic nature of the research will entail application of both approaches by the author as in practice almost all the research projects have elements of both the approaches in view of the importance of including both qualitative and quantitative findings. Research Data In general data contains information collected and recorded in note books, questionnaires, audiotapes, videotapes, models, photographs, films and test responses. (Veal, 2000). Research data in this case will be the response of selected customers and managers of Bank of China and HSBC, London. based on a questionnaire.

Key Critical Success Factors Of Ryanair Management Essay

Key Critical Success Factors Of Ryanair Management Essay RYANAIR- The Irish low cost airline was founded in 1985 by the Ryan family as a small competitor to Irish national airline Aer Lingus. As Ryanair walked on the same business model as that of its competitors. But this strategy adopted by Ryanair never turned out as a profitable one and took it nowhere. In 1990s, Ryanair transformed its strategy and under the leadership of Michael OLeary it decided to restructure and model itself after Southwest Airlines, the successful US Carrier and then enter into British Isles, and then in to whole of Europe. (Johnson, et al, 2008). The move of effective resource planning and redesigning Ryanair under the leadership of Michael OLeary was the turning point for the airlines. The Mantra of maintaining Low costs and No Frills worked wonders for Ryanair. Its effective resource planning and core competency helped Ryanair to develop and grow throughout years. Using regional and secondary airports, not to charge customers for fuel surcharge, reducing operational and handling charges were on the main agenda on Ryanair. Due to combination of all these activities Ryanair was able to maintain low costs and thus earn profits out of it. Ryanair faced many hurdles to reach where it is today .Sudden rise in fuel cost, compensations to passengers, aftermaths terrorist attacks, environmental taxation schemes, fraught relationship with pilots and staff, sundry legal action and many more acted as potholes to Ryanairs smooth ride. But Michael OLeary who was called everything from arrogant pig to messiah (Johnson, et al, 2008), balanced every sector of the organisation and scripted the success diary of Ryanairs. As per ELFAA (European Low Fares Airline Association)2010 statistics, in the year 2009, Ryanair topped the list with maximum number of passengers among its European low cost competitors. It covered 28.67% (i.e. 65.3m) passengers share among its ELFAA counterparts and travels over 150 destinations throughout Europe, and operates 1070 daily flights over 1000 routes(Anon, 2010) KEY CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS LOW PRICES As Ryanair operated in short-haul trips, it helped Ryanair to maintain low fares. Low fares helped to motivate demand, particularly from fare conscious travellers who would have rather opted for either means of transportation. The European Low Fares Airline Association (ELFAA) announced that last year its members carried 162.5 million passengers, representing an 8.7% increase on the previous year(Anon, 2010).This showed that, let it be for leisure or business, European consumers are chosing low fare airlines as it provides them Best Value for Money air services. POINT-TO-POINT MODEL Point to Point Model Figure 1: point to point model (Source: http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/aviation/airlinebusinessmodel.htm ) Ryanair operates in short-haul routes, which connects secondary and regional airports of the travelling destination. Ryanair carries out its point-to-point operations on a regular and frequent basis which has helped airlines to eliminate the necessity of frills services to its customers, which becomes quite necessary in long-haul routes. This point-to-point service helped Ryanair to serve non-stop and direct routes to its customers, and thus eliminate extra costs which are involved in long-haul routes. It also helped airlines to thus reduce its unit costs as aircrafts are utilised more. It helps in reducing operating costs, as flights are direct and does not involve any connecting flights and further expenses involved in it. NO FRILLS Ancillary revenues are regarded by analysts as a lucrative source of revenue growth for Ryanair at high margins(Milmo and Griffiths, 2006) Ryanair believed in No Frills policy .There is also no complimentary food and drink;instead this is sold on board(Anon, 2004).It earned revenue by imposing charges on hotels, travel, excess baggage,flight change fees, in flight retail and other such facilities. This helped Ryanair to maximise its Ancillary revenue. Keeping focus on this No Frills policy, Airline chief Michael OLeary suggested that installing pay toilets would lower ticket costs and make flying, somehow, easier for all (POGATCHNIK, 2009). He believed this will further help in generating ancillary revenue and thus will further support in reduction on fares. CHOICES OF ROUTES According to Pitt and Brown(2001) at present, there is a clear gain in terms of the time in which the air carriers can physically move customers from one point to the other, basically speaking there is very little disparity in terms of the total journey duration when we allow for airport processes and procedures and thus comparing it with the time taken to reach to the departure airport and to transfer from the arrival airport to the final destination. It was for the same motive that regional and secondary airports were majoritily connected by Ryanair as this helped in keeping the airport and handling cost low as compared to the main congested airports. Thus choices of routes was made by keeping Ryanairs Budget airline model in mind as it strengthens the competitiveness of the airline.It also enabled to make quicker departures, and quicker flight turnovers. LOW OPERATING COSTS Ryanair strategies and action plans had made it Europes biggest low fare carrier. As Ryanair operates in short-haul routes; it aims at reducing ; aircraft equipment costs by using single type of aircrafts which later on upgraded to new generation aircrafts due to stiff competiton and environmental needs and regulations; personnel expenses by improving productivity of its present staff by providing productivity- based incentives, on-board sales incentives for flight attendants, number of hours flown by pilot and the cabin crew within the set time limits, this motivated the staff to work for more hours. customer service costs by attaining competitive rates by signing multi-year contracts with third party contractors for aircraft and passenger handling, ticketing and other services:.As Ryanair was the largest travel website in Europe and fifth most recognised website in Europe,thus internet booking has immensely helped to reduce the customer service cost and also remove commission charges of the agents; and airport access and handling costs which is the also the key competency of Ryanair.Intorduction of web-based check-in and priority boarding helped Ryanair to enhance cost cutting in airport access charges. Also introduction of charges on check-in bags helped in reduction of baggages and saved costs and enhanced the performance and the speed of the aircraft. Ryanair kept its fleets cost under control by solely operating Boeings-737 jets and thus kept training, maintenance and operating costs under check(Anon, 2004). BRAND Ryanair is a very well-positioned brand, You know exactly what it stands for not something you can say too often in the travel business( McGuinness, 2010). Imposing toilet fee, excess baggage restriction, charges on credit cards, allegations of overstressing of staffs,environmental issues, sundry legal actions and many other such issues provided Brand Ryanair free of cost publicity and thus promoted itself as lowest fare airlines in Europe.Ryanair fifth most searched website worldwide, this show the potency of the its low cost carrier brand. (OConnell and Williams, 2005). TECHNOLOGY Web based check-in helped in reduction of airport costs for the Ryanair. Officials at the no-frills Irish airline said by lowering its airport costs they can pass th savings to passengers by lowering the fares further(Pugh, 2009). It saved check-in time and also reduce check-in staff costs and thus helps in maximising profits. Ryanair fleet of 130 Boeing 737-800s, is the youngest fleet and emits fewer gases than its older aircrafts( Chesshyre, 2007).This made Ryanair environment friendly and thus follow all environmental norms. STRATEGIC CAPABILITY RESOURCES Ryanair is a non-union operation having its headquarter in Dublin, Ireland(Box, 2007). Ryanair mainly carries out its operations from secondary and regional airports. In the year 2006 Ryanairs saw growth in its traffic by 26% to 34.8 million passengers and even ancillary revenues grew by 36%, which was higher than passengers revenues. Ryanair had a fleet of around 100 new Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which was the youngest fleet having an average age of 2.4 years. These new aircrafts were environmental friendly and also consumed lesser fuel. Ryanairs stock was up by 12% in a year to 9.28euros per share.Ryanair manpower grew to 3500 employees. Ryanair being a brand in airline sector, made profits due to its adequate fund and resources. CORE COMPETENCES A core competence is a set of skills and technologies, which enables a company to achieve a particular benefit to customers(Hamel and Prahalad,1994). It would not compulsorily be product-specific,but represent a very unique and difficult-to -imitate practices, which certainly stands as a pillar for the firms competitiveness. It would not be generally an asset or a value that can be seen in a firms balance sheet, it is a skill for doing things. Initially Ryanair focused on customer service and also wanted to provide lower fares than its fellow airlines-British Airways and Aer Lingus(Gillen and Lall, 2004). In the 1990s Ryanair copied Southwest Ailrlines,US business model and chose a new way to establish itself as Low Fare Carrier Airline in Europe. Ryanair took the Southwest operational efficiency to the next step by providing no service-no food; no jet ways; no frequent flyer programme; no refunds; no travel agents; no tickets; no connects (Gillen and Lall, 2004). Ryanair mainly focussed on providing low cost, competent, regular connections and subsequently offering no other frills or supporting services(Kangis and OReilly, 2003). This policy helped Ryanair to generate revenue. Numerous possibilities for non-price differentiation exist focusing on features such as punctuality, high frequencies and timing of flights (Klophaus, 2005). Ryanair adopted point-to-point routes as the it is not delayed by interlining passengers. Check-in is more faster because the point-to-point journey is simple than an interline one as choice is of regional and secondary airports. Boarding is rapid as seat choice is better for passengers who arrive early at the departure gate( Barrett, 2004). This also helped in maintaining high punctuality for Ryanair. Lower costs also stem from reduced complexity in activities (Gillen and Lall, 2004). Further Ryanair outsourced its activities as Outsourcing brings a flexibility to an airline in choosing between different suppliers of services such as aircraft maintenance, handling at airports, catering, and inflight magazines. Outsourcing brings flexibility to the company in choosing whether or not to renew contracts as they expire. In inflexible labour markets securing efficiency gains from an inhouse labour force is likely to be more difficult and involve compensation for change( Barrett, 2004). By adopting outsourcing Ryanair has made its development much easier and has expanded quite uncompromisingly which has given it a initial mover benefit in negotiating with airports and allowed it to sign long-term contracts( Gillen and Lall, 2004) PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS BCG MATRIX Boston Matrix diagram (Source:http://www.oup.com/elt/catalogue/teachersites/oald7/wotm/wotm_archive/boston_matrix?cc=global) The market share and the growth of market are the two contingent variables which determine the position of the firm. According to Seeger(1984) it is one of the simplest and most vivid concepts which consists of two impotant variables of the market i.e. market growth and market share. Ryanair falls under Cash Cows as it growing slowly even though its market share is high. It heavily targeted at maximising its market share and cash flow.As ryanair adopted no frills policy and outsourcing, the investments needed by it has to be low.Even though having high revenue Ryanair cannot expand its activities into other product lines, as its competitive advantage of low fare can be disturbed by certain small change in charges or taxes. VALUE CHAIN The purpose of the value-chain model is to assist companies to evaluate and select the optimum set of activities and methods of performing them to create the most value for the firm (McPhee, 2004). It incorporates both traditional business activities that provides continuous value to the organization and wide range of activities from modern strategic theory. Very Impotantly , expanded activites i.e Supply chain management, Product use,End of primary use,External networks, ensures that no potential strategic activity is elapsed and no opportunity for enhancing value is ignored. INFRASTRUCTURE Minimum Corporate HQ HRM Low Cost Training Limited staff Management control In-house Performance contracts TECHNOLGY DEVELOPMENT Internet Web information Integrated Internet sales PROCUREMENT Discount on aircrafts Alliances Outsourced Private Low cost Low cost suppliers Airport agreements Low cost No frills Fast turnaround Reliable service Low cost promotions Free publicity due to controversies Internet sales Limited resources High productivity Inbound logistics Operations Outbound logistics Marketing and sales High productivity RYANAIR VALU CHAIN Ryanair has least infrastructure required for corporate HQ. HRM involves Low cost training, limited crew, control of management, in-house and performance contracts that is done by developing technologically such as internet and low tech marketing on internet sales(McPhee, 2004). The procurement of low cost training is done with discount from Boeing, limited crew procurement involved alliances which result in No frills and low cost operations, management control is outsourced for quicker turnaround and reliable services. Marketing and sales incurs very less expenses as there is more internet sales involvement with little promotion costs, free publicity through controversies and yield management. Performance contracts are low cost productivity based which utilizes the less available productive resources STRENGTHS The Mantra Ever decreasing costs .Point to point flights, No frill policy ,and innovative ancillary schemes led to growth in revenues and thus made Ryanair financially strong and successful Ryanair has a very strong Brand and reputation in the European market, which enables them to adopt aggressive pricing stratergy. Ryanair can credit much of its success to its wily chief executive, Michael OLeary, who has used a combination of Irish blarney and sheer bloody-minded effrontery to achieve growth for his airline(Anon, 2010). He readily faced all the hurdles that came in Ryanairs way and thus with his innovative style converted these controversies it into publicity for Ryanair. Ryanair has the youngest single aircraft Boeing 737-800 fleet which has high seat density and also helped in reduction of maintanace and training costs Secondary and regional airport approach helped Ryanair in maintaining operations in busiest aviation traffic areas and thus reduce airport handling and flight turnover times. Web-based ticketing and check-in have been attracting people as it is time saving and also feasible for them. Ryanair has a huge future because of the untapped market. Lower fares help Ryanair to attract customers who use non-aircraft modes for travelling longer distances. WEAKNESS Customer relationship is very poor. Ryanairs operates from secondary and regional airports, which sometimes are very far away from the actual destination. Ryanair had weak employee relations. As Ryanair is a low cost fare carrier any new tax or charges effects its profits greatly. Ryanair is prone to bad controversial issue in the press, which gives a negative picture about the Brand Ryanair LEADERSHIP Developing Ryanair from the point of closure to the top profit making low fare airline, handling all controversial issues and media, motivating and energising people, facing legal actions and competitors. There is little doubt that OLearys confrontational personality has ruffled more than a few feathers amongst his rivals (Anon, 2004). But for Michael OLeary, any criticisms of him or his airline were looked up as giddy and completely pointless methods to divert Ryanair from its mission. All this is enough to prove that Michael was an efficient and innovative leader with every quality which a modern leader must pursue in order to achieve goals. Conclusion Ryanair by choosing a Low Cost Carrier Approach, have achieved it through simplicity of product design, simplicity of processes and simplicity of organization (Gillen And Lall, 2004). Thus we can see Ryanair have restructured the European markets competitive environment and made an impact on the worlds domestic airlines market, which was monoploised by huge airlines(OConnell and Williams, 2005).