Kerala from Sangam to Dutch Period

Introduction. ?Kerala has a unique Geographical position. ?Kerala has a rich culture and is the meeting point of many types of ideologies, Ideas and religious views. ?Travelers, merchants and rulers visited kerala and influenced its History. ?Story Behind the birth Of Kerala. ?Parasurama the 6th Incarnation of Lord Vishnuthrew an axe far into the sea and commanded the sea to retreat. ?The land that emerged from the waters became Kerala. ?From where does the term kerala come from ? ?Sanskrit scholars derive the name from â€Å"Kera or coconut†,which is a staple product of kerala. Others say it is derived from the Tamil word â€Å"Charal† meaning Mountain slope. ?Arab and Persian writers and early Malayalam and medieval Tamil Literature say that the word kerala means the land of hills and mountains. Traditional sources. ?Early history of kerala is based on traditions. The two major sources are : ? Archaeological Sources. ?Archaeological survey and excavations were started in Kerala by Ward and Conor in 1819. ? there are 3 relics of the Historical period found in the various parts of Kerala. They are : 1. monuments 2. coins 3. inscription. ?Monuments. 1.Stone images of Buddha, reflect the culture of kerala during the Buddhist era. 2. Religious monuments : Temples , Churches, Mosques and Synagogues. 3. Palaces – famous Padmanabhapuram palace in Kanyakumari district and Dutch palace in Fort Cochin. 4. Forts and historical sites. ?Coins. ? Many foreign and indigenous coins have been found in kerala. †¢ Rast is the oldest of them. †¢Roman coins are the oldest Foreign coins. †¢Rulers of Travancore and Cochin Had their own independent coinage. †¢Dutch copper coins and British Indian Coins give valuable information to historians. ?Inscriptions . Throw light on the political,Cultural, and social life of the People of Kerala. 2. Give insight into working conditions of local assemblies, how temples were managed, Relationship between the landlord and tenant and functioning Of educational institutions. 3. Some inscriptions testify the liberal policy of religious tolerationfollowed by the ancient rulers of Kerala. ?Sangam Age(1-500 A. D. ) ? Sangam Literature was composed, In which the Works of poets and writers threw light upon cultural, economic, political, Social and other aspects of the kingdoms of the South. Through these works we get to know what happened during the first 500 years of Christian Era : I. there was monarchy and patrilineal system of succession, II. Women were well educated and had a good position in society, III. Monogamy was the norm, widow remarriage was permitted, Child marriage was not there. ?No division of society into high and low castes,there was no untouchability, ? Rice was the staple food, people had no restrictions regarding beef eating and other non-veg items. Rice-wine was a popular drink. ?It was rare to find Brahmins though some were there as Aryan Brahmins in the royal court. Agriculture was a major occupation and due to trade with countries like Rome, they flourished as a prosperous set of people. Post Sangam Period (500-800 A. D. ) ?Main rulers of this period were Cheraman Perumal and Kulasekara Alwar. ?The former became a Vaishnavite Poet and the latter accepted Islam and went to Mecca. ?Adi Shankara (788-820 A. D. ) lived and propogated the Advaida philosophy during this period. ?After the creation of Kerala it was believed that Parasurama planted sixty-four joint Brahmin Families and gave them rules which would govern them. The Brahmins invited rulers called â€Å"Perumals â€Å" to rule them and each ruler was appointed for a period of 12 years to rule over them. The Kollam Epoch (800-1200A. D) ?Politically Kerala was under the Cholas and Pandyas. †¢A temple was constructed at almost every town and village in Kerala †¢ the Quilon calendar was introduced during this time in 25 July 825 A. D. ? Festivals like onam and vishu came to be cel ebrated. ? The 9th century A. D. saw Malayalam growing as a distinct language. ? Educational institutions like â€Å"Salai† came into existance. ? This period also saw the grow of trade and commerce. There was trade between China and Kerala. ?Tenant system was prevalent whereby the feudal lords enjoyed life at the cost of the poor tenants. ?Sales and tax on vehicles fetched a revenue for the state. ?Ravi Varma Epoch (1200-1500 A. D) ? During this period the land relations showed certain important features : ? Increase of intermediaries as temporary holders of land. ?Increased measures to expand cultivable land and enhance income from land. ?The emergence of cash money in obtaining land rights. ?Traditional landowners held the right of ownership of land. ?Pledging of land of debt on interest. Agriculture was the main occupation. ?There were other occupations like ritual-cum-medicine men, astrologers, washer men and so on. ?There was growth of trade and trading centres; ?Trade was at 3 levels : ?Transport system was essential for trade and in this context there were many boats, ships; even bridges over waterways was essential. ?Portugese Rule In Kerala. ?Political authority was fragmented by the time the Portuguese came to kerala. ?In 1498, Vasco-do-Gamma reached Kappad near Kozhikode. ?Portugese, was the first to achieve a stronghold in Kerala ?A number of battles were fought between the provincial rulers and the Portugese. In 1524 Gamma was appointed the Portugese viceroy of Kerala. ?Apart from commerce, they were also interested in imparting their faith to the people. ?Many people were forced to convert. ?In 1550’s , St. Francis Xavier converted many fisher folk and other socially backward sections along the coastal regions of southern Kerala. ?The chiefs in the state (except the Muslims to whom the Portuguese were hostile) did not resist the conversion as long as they had freedom to do trade and commercial activities and the economic fabric of society was not disturbed. The Portuguese used their own tactics of divide and rule policy for fulfilling their commercial interests in the state. ?New towns had risen and old towns decayed. eg. Calicut, Cochin, Chaliyam gained importance while Quilon and Cranganore languished. ?Crops like cashewnuts, tobacco, custard apple, guava, pineapple and papaya were introduced. ?Gunpowder increased the importance of artillery. This brought unemployment among the Nairs who were well trained in swords and shields. †¢They established seminaries and colleges in Cochin, Angamali and Cranganore. For gtting Christian priests. †¢St.Francis Xavier translated Catechism into Malayalam. †¢Fearing ?The Dutch in Kerala. ?Dutch East India Company was established in the year 1592. ?In 1604 they came to the Malabar coast. ?There was rivalry btw Cochin and Kozhikode during that time and they took advantage of this situation. ?However like the Portuguese their involvement in the local politics w as minimal. ?However they had conflicts btw Marthanda Varma of Thiruvithankur and Samuthiri of Kozhikode. ?The Dutch had the main power over the Trade activities. ?Pepper and spices were exported by merchants only after the consent of the Dutch people. They constructed forts and factories here like the Portuguese. ?They sold Indonesian spices and sugar to those ships which were going to Cochin. It turned out to be a success. ?But this didn’t last for long as it declined from 1783 and was completely stopped by 1793 due to poor demand. ?Conclusion ?The History of kerala is very essential part of the heritage of the state and country as well. ?If we study History well then we would know about the real background in which our state developed through the years. ?We can also see the contrasting practices that were in vogue during the ancient and medieval and the present kerala society.

Trifles Symbolism

For centuries people have been writing dramas, but witnessing the drama of a story is a different kind of experience. There are many elements that make up dramas, including sets/setting, plot, conflict, symbolism, point of view, irony etc. Symbolism is something that can be hard to look for in a drama. A symbol is something that represents more than itself. In a drama props, clothing, or sets could all be used as symbols. When symbolism is added to a play it becomes more sophisticated. A symbol can put a play on a whole new level and get an audience to think of the play in a whole new way. Symbols are often hard to find and many times you have to re read work to find them. In an article by Hickett she helps readers understand ways to find symbols â€Å"There are several ways to recognize symbolism in literature. One is the frequency an object or character is mentioned in a piece of literature–if it is mentioned often, it is probably important. Another way to find a symbol is to look at how much detail is used in describing an object† (1). Susan Glaspell uses many symbols in her play Trifles. Glaspell uses symbols such as a canary, quilt, birdcage, rocking chair, cherry preserves all have symbolism given to them by Glaspell in the play. She uses her props very well to give them dual meanings that could easily pass ones eye. Each thing has a meaning to help solve the case, and even show who Mrs. Wright really is. One of the main symbols in the story was the canary. The dead canary shows that Mrs. Wright is capable of murder. Since the bird had a broken neck it shows that it did not die of natural causes. This means that the birds death could also symbolize Mr. Wright’s death. It is up to a reader to determine if Mr. Wright killed the bird so Mrs. Wright killed him, or if Mrs. Wright were to kill both. The Canary could also symbolize the life and happiness Mrs. Wright once experienced but how it was killed by Mr. Wright. Another key symbol in this story was the bird cage. It symbolizes a guard. Mrs. Wright had a guard up of how her life really was and the way Mr. Wright treated her. She could not show what she was actually going through. It shows how after marriage her life became secluded, like a bird in the cage would be. The next symbol found in Trifles is the rocking chair. The chair symbolizes calmness. It shows throughout everything that Mrs. Wright is going through and how nervous she may be, while Hale is questioning her she can still remain calm. It shows that the chair was a place of tranquility, somewhere she could spend her time and be in peace.

What is Automobility?

Automobility is a concept based on two fundamental ideas.   Autonomy is the self-directing or self-governing freedom of an individual.   Mobility is the movement or travel of an individual.Therefore, automobility is the independent, self-governing movement of an individual.   The concept sounds valid and many people would believe it to be so, however, after a more detailed look automobility may not be as mobile or self-regulating as first thought.Automobility has several factions that claim to define this system of automobility (3).   First is the socio-technical facet that defines automobility as the organization of modern concepts.   The political definition is the regulation and practices of movement.Others see it as the legitimization of the differences between man and machine, and man's dominance over the machine (3).   The one concept that is equivalent in all these definitions is the fact that automobility is a patterned system that creates a cohesive understanding of both autonomy and mobility (4).Upon a closer look, it becomes obvious that this system is really a regime based on truth, power, and subjectivity (8). To understand automobility in these terms, we must define the concept of mobility.   Universally it would be considered an automobile, but other modes of travel are available, such as bicycling, public transportation and taxis, and travelling by telephone and internet.These are all modes of travel, and are all self-regulated by the individual, thus giving them all the title of automobility, however, the car is the most often associated with this concept (6).Truth in this regime of automobility is the concept of driving the car (6).   Power is the brute for of the vehicle, such as trucks and sport utility vehicles which over power most other vehicle and modes of transportation (7). Another part of power are the governmental regulations and rules that accompany the driving of a vehicle, which has created a large amount of govern mental bodies to help keep the driver moving within the laws of automobility (7).While automobility is based in an individual’s freedom of movement, it also causes more regulations to be put on the individual and thus is the power of automobility (7). Subjectivity is the last part of the regime.The subjectivity can be a form of hierarchy or of self-monitoring.   Either way, the ideas of one group or class get put on others.   For example, cyclists are not considered when planning for roads and highways, thus those that drive cars, trucks, and such are putting their views and using their power.Social stigmatisms can also be place in this part, because the subjectivity of a person who views people taking public transportation as failures can lead to incorrect assumptions (8). In any case the three facets of the regime create the concept of automobility (8).There are four problems associated with automobility that affect the world at large.   First problem is the congestio n created with the number of cars and vehicles on the road and the planning of those roads being inadequate (9).The second is the ecological and environmental effects of automobility (9).   Third is the geopolitical factor that causes governments to spend money to find, store, and process the oil needed for the vehicles as well as the possibility of war to ensure the oil supply keeps coming.   The last problem is the deaths and accidents that occur, but are considered a normal part of automobility (10).The fact of the matter is that the concept automobility is virtually and completely impossible, since the concept itself requires external forces to allow it to be used.   For example, roads need to be created and maintained, licensure and driver education to ensure the regulations of the roads are followed, and even walking require sidewalks (11-12).Therefore, automobility is neither mobile nor individually self-regulated.   In fact the governmental bodies created by this con cept are now changing the rules and trying to alleviate or eliminate some of the problems associated with automobility (13 – 14).   In any case, changes are coming and the fragility of automobility has become more obvious, and yet the concept continues.

Q1 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Q1 - Assignment Example However, the insurance companies will have to provide coverage to every individual, without limit even to those with pre-existing health conditions. This process has been termed unconstitutional by US state supreme courts, arguing that the Americans should not be forced into health care coverage. Whether or not the bill solves the issue of health care as a privilege depends on the general implication of implementing the bill. The bill is likely to throw away individual mandate if implemented. What this means for the healthcare industry is that the pricing policies in the industry are prone to enormous changes that may not end up favoring the end user of the health insurance. Individual mandate provides a constant and a large pool of insurance coverage purchasers. In this regard, repealing the individual mandate is likely to increase American health insurance premiums. It is important to point out that the Americans who will be without insurance cover will opt to make use of emergency rooms as their healthcare procedure. As a result, the accrued costs from emergency rooms procedure will be shifted to the insured. The law’s purpose is to extend health insurance coverage to the American community. However, the law is prone to failure in the context of the high insurance premiums. This bill therefore, and the resultant law therein may not solve the health care issue as anticipated. The new health care bill has taken ethical and legal turns, with its applicability and benefit to the American society questioned. The Americans are expected to be health insured by the year 2014. Violation of this law will attract penalties as outlined in the law. However, the entire process has been termed unethical, because the law seeks to force people to comply. Freedoms of choice are hereby violated. The insurance companies will also be forces to cover all individuals, those with pre-existing

Henri Fayol Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Henri Fayol - Essay Example Organizing is the next step of management after planning. The materials or resources required for the project must identified at the planning stage itself which should be arranged at the organizing stage. The next step is to co-ordinate between different players of the project. For example, different types of works may be required for a project which may be done partly at different places. There should be a co-ordination between the members of the project in order to ensure the success of the project. The manager must act as a link in the co-ordination process. Commanding and controlling are the last step in management action. If the project is done partly at different places, nobody, except the manger knows about the final outcome of the project. So commanding and controlling of the project must be done by the manager. For example, in tire manufacturing industry, various parts of the tire, tread, beads, plies, etc. are manufacturing at different places of the plant. These parts have different specifications for different types of tires like car tire truck tire etc. The manager is the only person who has better idea about which tire should be manufactured with priority and for that purpose which parts need to be manufactured at other locations. Based on that, he has to advice the workers at different sections like bead section, tread section, and ply section. â€Å"Henri Fayol, an advocate of the experimental method, built his administrative theory from his experiences† (Wren). Today’s managers heavily depend on academic credentials for solving problems. They are totally wrong. They must realize that as in the case of every other segment of life, practice makes a person perfect. No academy or institution can give us readymade solutions for everyday problems face by the mangers. Education can only guide a manager to arrive at conclusions rather than taking decisions. Decisions of managers must be custom made for the organization he is working

Legalization of marijuana Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Legalization of marijuana - Research Paper Example However, there is very little evidence to prove the claims of negative effects of Marijuana on a person. The purpose of this paper is to discuss both sides of the issue while championing the side of legalized Marijuana sale and use based upon factual evidence from highly reputable newspaper and similar sources. Let me start off this discussion with the beliefs of the naysayers. Marijuana has always been listed as an illegal drug. This classification means that Marijuana, even when used for medical purposes will cause an addiction among its users. More so if people are allowed open access to the drug from an early age. Those who are opposed to the legalization of Marijuana continue to do so even if there are claims of medical benefits from its use. According to these people, there have not been any significant clinical studies to prove that the plant actually has any medical benefits that will aid a patient during his healing process (â€Å"In Our Opinion: Marijuana Should Not Be Mad e Legal†). So their argument is that the claims of medicinal use for the plant are baseless and are merely debate points that the supporters of the legalization of Marijuana use in a futile attempt to get Marijuana declared legal, at least for medicinal purposes. The opinion of the naysayers is that even as a medicinal drug, Marijuana has the ability to have debilitating effects upon the user. In the Netherlands, a study showed that 50 % of the patients with psychosis are Marijuana users. While there is a 4.5 chance that heavy users will develop psychosis. Even as the medical content of Marijuana, known as CBD or Cannibol shows some promise of being an effective medicinal tool to some extent, it is important to remember that Marijuana is still considered a criminal drug and as such may cause serious side effects (â€Å"Marijuana Shouldn't be Legalized†). Due to the ease that accompanies the cultivation of Marijuana, it is readily available, which is the major factor in the drug being the most highly abused in the United States. It is this sort of addiction that produced a great cost that resulted in the prohibition of Marijuana. Readily available information dictates that: Marijuana is currently the leading cause of substance dependence other than alcohol in the U.S. In 2008, marijuana use accounted for 4.2 million of the 7 million people aged 12 or older classified with dependence on or abuse of an illicit drug. This means that about two thirds of Americans suffering from any substance use disorder are suffering from marijuana abuse or marijuana dependence (â€Å"Why We Should Not Legalize Marijuana†). . Contrary to the opinion of those who support the medical legalization of Marijuana, the drug can actually be more dangerous than the cure. Since Marijuana actually contains a higher level of toxins than regular cigarettes due to the pure form that it is smoked in, a single joint can have the same harmful effect as smoking five cigarette st icks. It also activates cancer causing agents within the body of the user in the case of non-cancerous users. Aside from the fact that Marijuana is a carrier for the Kaposis Sarcoma disease, regular pot users also find themselves with a higher rate of lung destruction that a regular cigarette smoker (Enyart, Bob â€Å"Why Marijuana Should Be Illegal†). The prohibition of

Potential employees use of google and Facebook to assess applicants Assignment

Potential employees use of google and Facebook to assess applicants - Assignment Example ’t give to potential employees private lives outside work, principals for employment professionals, Face book policies, legal implications of the use of Google and face book to scrutinize applicants just to mention a few. These areas of scrutiny lead to a number of findings which are discussed in the discussion area in relation to literature. The paper also presents a number of recommendations in relation to the findings of the research. Technology which has remained indispensable to most organizations today is undoubtedly changing and advancing their internal operations. The work of human resource departments specifically has been made easier with the advent of technology especially social networks, because they can easily evaluate the integrity and moral life of the applicant outside the professional field. Most firms would wish their employees to uphold high level of integrity within and without job settings because everywhere they are they represent the organizations image. (Zeidner,2007) This paper will try to evaluate the legal and professional implications of applying the utilitarian approach of ethics which is purely meant to ensure employers full satisfaction with a least harm to the affected i.e. customers, employees, shareholders, community and the environment. The investigation will offer more information on the legal implications of invading applicant’s privacy and also the need for the applicants to enhance their privacy settings besides minding what they post to the public. The key question that this paper will address is on whether employers should invade the applicant’s privacy during recruiting process. In order to complete this research work successfully, there are different aspects of methodology which were used. One of them was the sampling of participants who included employers, employees and job seekers in the proportion of 5, 7, and 8 respectively. They were emailed structured questionnaire which was later received and the

Biography of Huey Long Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Biography of Huey Long - Essay Example This paper will discuss the biography of Huey Pierce Long and his career as a senator of Louisiana. Huey was born on 30th august 1893 at Winn parish in Winnfield, a small town at the north of the state (Collins and Smith 1). His father was Senior Huey Pierce Long (1852-1937), and a descendant of Tison William and Sarah Tison. Huey attended local schools at his young age, where he became a brilliant student. He was later expelled from school in 1908 after protesting against the 12th grade requirement for graduation. He had won a scholarship to Louisiana University, but did not afford textbooks to attend. He spent four years as a salesperson selling canned goods, books, patent medicine and as an auctioneer (Collins and Smith 2). In 1913, he got married to Rose McConnell, who was a stenographer. They got two sons Russel and Palmer and a daughter named Rose. During World War 1, the sales job became scarce and Long decided to attend Oklahoma Baptist University for seminary classes. He later joined the law school at Tulane University in New Orleans. Having studied law for one year at Tulane University, he took the state bar exam where he passed well and began private practice of law at Winnfield. He worked for 10 years representing plaintiffs against enormous businesses. He never took cases involving poor people. He became famous when he took on standard oil company for unacceptable business practices. He continued to challenge the company’s influence over the state politics and exploitation of the oil and gas deposits in the state (Boulard 49). At the age of 25, Long was appointed in Louisiana railroad commission in 1918 based on anti-standard oil company platform in 1918. He utilized the position at this commission to perfect his political career. He was a strong opponent of enormous utility and oil companies and fought against pipeline

Global and Corporate Strategies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Global and Corporate Strategies - Essay Example These are intended strategies which the management effects though intense, circumspect, deliberate planning, organising and executing, after considering all aspects and after giving these strategies a careful and through study. These strategies are well intentioned and management are well aware, from the initial stages itself, about the objectives these strategies would realise. However, emergent strategies are the realised strategies or the result of completed actions. While deliberate strategies are deliberate and planned, emergent strategies may be accidental and may not be really planned or deliberated. In real terms, deliberateness is the result of planned, well thought out, formulated, deigned, strategised and conceived strategies, while emergence may be in terms of innovative, accidental, spontaneous, instinctive and intuitive planning. In certain cases, management needs to take an immediate and critical decision, regarding clinching a competitive bid, or buying of a new unit. In such cases, strategic planning may not work and it would be necessary to rely on intuition, or instinctive nature of the decision maker. It may be proved correct or wrong at a later stage, or carried out "with practical and ethical difficulties." (Macrae 1998). But the fact remains that it is a spur-of -the movement decision and not one arrived after long, deliberate, and planned sessions. This is because "all corporations experience problems in implementing and using a formal planning system." (Henry 1977, p.40-45). Explanation of both strategies - deliberateness and emergence: Planning is a key aspect in deliberateness. Without planning, the question of strategising does not arise. In order to enforce deliberateness, strategies need to imbue it with time, efforts and mental thoughts. All relevant information are put into the decision theory, the options are weighed and assessed, different alternatives courses are considered, extensive analysis of the situation are considered, and then final deliberativeness are made. Therefore, it could be said that rigidity and lack of flexibility could be a main criteria in deliberateness" that might effectively narrow the gap between what-is and what-ought-to-be." (Eppel). Once strategic plans are drafted and finalised, the options for changes or modifications are minimal. Therefore, it would not be wrong to assume that bureaucratic elements are very much present in deliberateness since the laid out systems are to be maintained and followed. Thus a manager becomes restrained and restricted in his functioning, under the deliberateness strategy, since he has to follow the stipulated guidelines in totality, and flexibility, or innovative thinking may not be possible. However, emergent strategies are highly flexible and accommodating. In the case of any disruption or unthought-of threat, the deliberate strategy may be rendered ineffective, or unusable. Under such circumstances, emergent strategies seek to offer alternative solutions, in terms of unplanned, innovative perceptions that may be able to control the situation effectively and find a viable solution. This is

Business Proposal Final for Thomas Money Service Essay Example for Free

Business Proposal Final for Thomas Money Service Essay The current financial status of Thomas Money Service Inc. needs attention to help improve its existing goods and services to overcome the challenges faced by the economy downturn. This proposal will address those issues effecting the profitability of Thomas Money Service Inc. and strategize affective ways to overcome those obstacles to return to profitability. â€Å"Thomas Money Service Inc. (TMS) has been in business since 1940† (University of Phoenix, 2012). The company started out granting small loans for consumer needs and evolved into offering business loans, business acquisition financing, and commercial real estate loans, (University of Phoenix, 2012). TMS expanded into equipment financing in 1946 under the subsidiary of Future Growth Inc. (FGI), (University of Phoenix, 2012). The venture in turn became very lucrative for TMS because of a huge demand in construction and forestry equipment after World War II (University of Phoenix, 2012). In 1951, FGI purchased an equipment manufacturing company building, selling, and financing their own building and forestry equipment and discontinued financing other equipment (University of Phoenix, 2012). For over 67 years it has been profitable and has stated in previous economic downturns that the company never had to lay off any of its workers, (University of Phoenix, 2012). However, in the current recession and after several natural disasters affecting forestry states, FGI profits declined last year by 30%. Home sales also declined, constructions slowed and caused FGI to repossess equipment and sell it at a discounted price. With the changing economic environment and profit loss Thomas Money Services Inc. has requested recommendations to help increase its revenue, determine its profit maximizing quantity, increase product differentiation, increase barriers to entry, and minimize cost of production. Market Structure and Elasticity of Demand Thomas Money Services Inc. operates in a monopolistic competition by offering products and services that can be differentiated and is very competitive with other sellers offering similar products for consumption. By creating an environment in which consumers looking to purchase equipment could receive financing and goods in a one stop shop has positioned TMS as leader in the market share in the construction industry prior to the recession. Because there are similar products available for consumers to obtain instead of FGI’s equipment, it has to differentiate its product and services as the best to have by nonpricing competition. The price elasticity of demand for Thomas Money Services Inc. from its original price of $1990.1 to its new price of $1732.0 shows the responsiveness of consumer to the quantity demanded of goods and services at its new demand of 182 million units from it its original demand of 123 million units shows that the PEoD is 3.70 resulting in TMS being very elastic. Although Thomas Money Services Inc. has not been a price taker but a price maker distinguishing it has a one stop shop for consumer’s construction equipment. The market has changed resulting in consumer finding alternatives to TMS goods and services decreasing revenue over the last year. â€Å"There are many domestic and international companies manufacturing construction and forestry equipment† (University of Phoenix, 2012). Because TMS offers elastic goods and services it has to continue to monitor the market to understand the demand. Recommendation Increase Revenue Increasing revenue is the objective for Thomas Money Services Inc. regardless of how the economy is doing. Because the market has declined in home sales, individual construction, and forestry equipment TMS should focus its marketing on hospital and nursing homes. According to University of Phoenix, not all sectors have been affected by the economic downturn hospital and nursing homes still have a high demand for new building (2012). These sectors are potential areas to increase revenue for TMS. Another area is in the price of equipment. To continue success in the marketplace the elasticity of demand plays a vital role. Currently, FGI has repossessed equipment and selling each unit at $1,732. From the demand chart below it will acquire revenue in the amount of $315,224 for the sale of 182 units. If FGI were to decrease the price to $1,634.3 per unit from the demand chart  below the demand will increase to 350 units sold, resulting in $572,005 in revenue. This will increase revenue b y $256,781 resulting in more profit to invest back into the company. Over the past years the data for demand is in millions. Table 1 Price Demand 1,990.1 123 1,732.0 182 1,634.3 350 1,252.0 380 732.1 400 622.3 456 Profit-Maximizing Quantity The monopolistic competitor maximizes profit by producing the output at which marginal revenue equals marginal cost (McConnell, Brue, Flynn, 2009). Marginal cost is the additional cost it would take to produce another unit of good or service. Marginal revenue is the additional revenue acquired from selling the additional unit. To reach profit-maximizing quantity Thomas Money Services will need to continue to increase output until its marginal revenue equals its marginal cost. Because TMS has been in business for more than 60 plus years it is currently operating in a long run curve where it earns a normal profit. Barriers to Entry Unfortunately, because Thomas Money Service Inc. operates in monopolistic competition there is relatively easy entry and exit into the market. When demand is high for construction and forestry equipment there will be surge of newer firms to enter the market because capital requirements are low. However, during this economic downturn many newer firms will exit because they will be unable to differentiate themselves from the longstanding branding and reputation that Thomas Money Services Inc. has had in the market. By making it more difficult to imitate TMS goods and service will result in an increase barrier to entry for newer competitors. Product  Differentiation In recent years, Thomas Money Service Inc. has decreased it advertisement revenue to having a commercial in the Super Bowl and a few other sporting events (University of Phoenix, 2012). In order to increase its product differentiation it will need to increase advertisement revenue to inform consumers of product differences, thus increase product branding and consumer loyalty. Since TMS operates in a monopolistic competition it has to advertise heavily to inform consumers of the benefits of its goods and services, especially in nursing home and construction magazines. When consumers prefer a specific product then within limits they will pay more to satisfy their preferences, thus making the product more inelastic to changes in the price in the long run (McConnell et al., 2009). Minimize Cost of Production While fixed costs have stay constant for various outputs of production for Thomas Money Services Inc. there are still ways to minimize cost. Installing proper equipment for processing and manufacturing the equipment and staying aware of the latest technology will help in cutting cost. By TMS shopping around for the best bargain in raw material and continually monitor variable cost to not exceed output of production. Combine project to offset prices for material for future projects Conclusion In conclusion, Thomas Money Service Inc. is a sound company that needs to adjust its strategy during this global recession to improve profits. This business proposal has addressed some of those issues to help increase its revenue, maximize profits, minimize cost, and differentiate it from its competitors. These recommendations are only few ways to overcome the challenges faced by TMS. Thomas Money Services Inc. will need to continue to monitor the market and their effectiveness to adjust to the ever changing-market. References McConnell, C. R., Brue, S. L., Flynn, S. M. (2009). Economics: Principles, problems, and policies (18th ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Irwin. University of Phoenix. (2012). Thomas Money Service Inc. Scenario [Multimedia]. Retrieved from University of Phoenix, ECO/561 website.

Holistic and Academic Education

Holistic and Academic Education Holistic education is a discipline of education based on the premise that each person finds, meaning, identity and purpose in life through connections to the natural world, to the community, and to humanitarian values such as peace and compassion. Holistic education aims to call forth from people an intrinsic reverence for life and a passionate love of learning. This is the definition given by Miller, editor, founder and author of the journal Holistic Education. The term holistic education is often used to refer to the more democratic and humanistic types of alternative education. Flake, C. L (1998) describes this further by stating, What distinguishes holistic education from other forms of education, at its most general level, are its objectives, its focus to learning through experience, its goals and the significance it places on primary human values and relationships, within a learning environment. The concept of holism refers to the idea that all the properties of a given system in any field of study cannot be determined or explained by the sum of its component parts [Forbes, S. H, 1996]. The system as a whole instead determines the behavior of its parts. There is no single source for a holistic education movement. There is neither a major form of expression nor a predominant proponent. It is difficult to define clearly a holistic education. There are a number of perceptions and values, however that most schools claiming to be holistic would follow [Miller.R, 2010]. A holistic way of thinking rather than defining human possibilities narrowly, literally tries to integrate and encompass multiple layers of experience and meaning. Teaching Methodologies There are several methodologies adopted by schools that preach holistic education: Religion as a part of life: Holistic education cultivates religious values as a part of the life. There are classes that insist and preach moral values such as divinity, spirituality, realization of self, morality, mortality, serving the community and much more. Live Workshops: Education through experience is the main motto of holistic education. Everything is made live in the form of workshops. Scholars from various disciplines interact with the students and conduct real-time workshops rather than imparting the bookish knowledge. Children or students literally do what they learn and learn what they do. This make the children gain experience in each and every subject they learn. Science Fairs and Exhibitions: The institutions spent a lot of amount in gather people of same likes and interests at a single place and share their views on thoughts. Knowledge is the only resource that multiplies on sharing. Knowledge transfer is accomplished in holistic education due to many fairs and exhibitions. Special Training Programs: Training programs to develop various technical, managerial and behavioral skills are conducted often by these institutions. Some of the most significant training programs are leadership training, team building training, communication training, psychological training, orientation training and religious training. Mentors The teachers in the holistic schools are not strict as that of regular academic schools. Rather than threatening the students by exercising strict control over them, these teachers act as real friends and mentors of the students. The children can get guidance from their mentors very easily and without a hesitation. The barrier between the teacher- student relationships is completely broken in holistic education. Thus holistic education is far beyond the styles adopted by conventional academic learning. With acts like terrorism, crime and violence increasing in the society, holistic learning, obviously is the need of the hour. Aims and objectives of the study Primary Objective: To understand the key concepts and options of holistic education. To analyze the difference between academic and holistic education. To identify the need for holistic education. To study the process of education followed in holistic institutions in India. To evaluate the effectiveness of holistic education systems. Secondary Objective: To create awareness about holistic education among people of India. To emphasis the need for holistic education in India. To encourage the people to seek holistic education rather than conventional academic education. Review of literature The Indian educational history has always been glorified by the presence of universities like Nalanda, Vikramshila and Taxila, from the ancient period. India has got the privilege of establishing universities, even before there were universities in continents like Europe. The contributions of Arya Bhatta, Chanakya, Kalidasa and Baskaracharyya could not be forgotten by the whole world. Be it mathematics, science, literature or technology, India would be in the list of one of the historic contributors irrespective of the discipline of education. Indians have produced many of the most successful and remarkable insights, thoughts and inventions. However, on examining the post independent era, the scenario of growth in the present Indian education is remarkably low and in fact pitiable. The 65 years of post independence has not made much difference in Indian education, especially in rural India. Independent India however has stood unique by setting up over seventy education commission or education committee. Out of the 94 developing countries in the world, the position of India is 76th in terms of overall educational development index [EDI]. The percentage of students enrolled in first standard (Class I) and reached to fifth standard (Class V) is 77 in other developing countries. Controversially in India it is only 60%. [Krishnamurthy, 1994]. This statistical data is significant enough to understand the deteriorating situation of present India. India ranks a low 105 out of 127 nations in UNESCOs Education for All Development Index (EDI) for 2004, despite its much-prevalent Education for All (Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan) initiative. The worst part of it is that the United Nation body says it is doubtful if India would be able to achieve the EFA (Education for All) goal. The EFA goals concentrates on 100% enrolment in primary schools by the year 2015 and it is one of the U Ns Millennium Development Goals (MDG). All this has happened only because of the conventional educational system that focuses much on making the children to pile up with loads of books rather than understanding the true value of education. The conventional academic education ruins the imaginative power of kids. Especially the academic educational system in India is so strict that it does not give place for creativity and human values. On the other hand, an alternative educational system also known as holistic education is emerging in India. Unlike the conventional system, holistic education concentrates on learning through experience. This gives a new definition and style to education. By this system, children can learn by doing whatever they love to do. This system induces an interest for learning among children and education is being made a fun by this process. Holistic learning is also known as transformative learning. Jack Mezirow (2000), Neuman (1998), Boyd Meyers and Edmond OSullivan, (1988) have contributed to the research of transformative learning and have identified a new framework or pedagogy that is to be demonstrated in holistic programs. According to Mezirow, the goal of education is to help the individual become a more autonomous thinker by learning to negotiate his or her own values, meanings, and purpose rather than uncritically acting on those of others[Mezirow ,2000]. According to Edmond OSullivan, transformative learning involves experiencing a deep, structural shift in the basic premises of thought, feelings, and actions. It is a shift of consciousness that dramatically and permanently alters our way of being in the world. [Edmond OSullivan, 1988]. OSullivan E., has identified five themes as the fundamental to transformative learning. The connection or relationship that humans have with the natural world also known as the consciousness of the environment Conscious world citizens, equality, peace, world citizenship, interdependency, narratives of inclusion and interconnectedness Integral curriculum; integral development-from the personal to the planetary, contextual-holistic vs. content-informational An experience of belonging: community, a place, roots A sense of the sacred: integrative dimension of experience, awe, respect for life, connections to the spirit [Jack Mezirow, 2000], On the other hand has specified ten elements that provide a strong foundation for transformative learning. A sense of safety, openness, trust; egalitarian, nonjudgmental and non-competitive environment A learner centered approach Critical reflection and explorations of alternative personal perspectives Affective learning, emotions and feelings discussed Solitude, self dialogue Handling disagreement, confronting rather than avoiding Experiential learning Acknowledging many ways of knowing and learning; multiple intelligences Questioning our assumptions, beliefs The use of rational discourse, dialogue [Boyd and Meyers, 1988], include supporting students to recognize their spirit-a knowing or a truth that resides in them, in promoting transformative learning. [Neuman, 1996] expands the acknowledgment of the importance of feelings and emotions to the transformative aspects of learning experiences. Research methodology Two forms of research are undertaken in order for the purpose of satisfying the objectives of the study: Primary Research: Data collected through first-hand sources Secondary Research: Second-hand data collected through different sources Primary research- Quantitative Research Quantitative research method will be followed in order to create a detailed analysis of consumers perception regarding emails and direct mails as marketing medium in India. Quantitative research offers several advantages to the study: Brower et al (2000, pg. 366) assert that quantitative researchers pursue- and insist that they generate- value-free, unbiased data. Similarly, McLaughlin et al (2002) highlight the following uses of quantitative approach: Research and establish explicit hypotheses Uses accurate measures of concepts Uses tests of statistical significance Uses controls for other explanatory variables Provides a clear theoretical context Case-studies The term case-study usually refers to a fairly intensive examination of a single unit such as a person, a small group of people, or a single company. Case-studies involve measuring what is there and how it got there. In this sense, it is historical. It can enable the researcher to explore, unravel and understand problems, issues and relationships. It cannot, however, allow the researcher to generalize, that is, to argue that from one case-study the results, findings or theory developed apply to other similar case-studies. The case looked at may be unique and, therefore not representative of other instances. It is, of course, possible to look at several case-studies to represent certain features of management that we are interested in studying. The case-study approach is often done to make practical improvements. Contributions to general knowledge are incidental. The case-study method has four steps: Determine the present situation. Gather background information about the past and key variables. Test hypotheses. The background information collected will have been analyzed for possible hypotheses. In this step, specific evidence about each hypothesis can be gathered. This step aims to eliminate possibilities which conflict with the evidence collected and to gain confidence for the important hypotheses. The culmination of this step might be the development of an experimental design to test out more rigorously the hypotheses developed, or it might be to take action to remedy the problem. Take remedial action. The aim is to check that the hypotheses tested actually work out in practice. Some action, correction or improvement is made and a re-check carried out on the situation to see what effect the change has brought about. The case-study enables rich information to be gathered from which potentially useful hypotheses can be generated. It can be a time-consuming process. It is also inefficient in researching situations which are already well structured and where the important variables have been identified. They lack utility when attempting to reach rigorous conclusions or determining precise relationships between variables. Sample size This study takes into consideration ten different holistic schools functioning in India. Secondary Research Secondary data is the information what was collected in the past for some other purpose. Usually, researchers start their investigation by studying a rich variety of already accessible data, to see if they can make a breakthrough in the study partly or wholly, without the use of expensive, time-consuming first-hand research. The following forms of secondary data will be used to research purpose: Books Journals and articles Newspapers Magazines Online web portals Annual Reports Government Agencies Independent Agencies Government official reports Limitations of the study- .5 page This concentrates on the holistic educational practices in India and not any other type of education. This study focuses exclusively on alternate schools. This study involves the holistic schools in India alone. This study is applicable for holistic schools that have been successfully serving the society for not less than eight years.

United Nations Childrens Fund :: essays research papers

Introduction (United Nations Children's Fund [UNICF], n.d.)The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is a leading advocate for women and children rights. Founded in 1946 and active in 157 countries and territories around the world. The UNICEF has committed it resources to achieve results for children in five major areas: Rights to an education Best possible start in life Safeguard against disease, provide immunizations Stop spread of AIDS/HIV and care for those already infected Protection from violence, exploitation, abuse and discrimination UNICEF’s mission is to remain focus on these five priorities all over the world in all circumstances including conflicts, war, natural disasters, emergencies and also in times of peace. In order to accomplish their mission UNICEF’s management must take into account ethics in planning and the factors of strategy, tactics, operations and contingency which influence each plan in management. Strategy   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Management at The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) must have a strategic plan which serves as the framework to build â€Å"A World Fit for Children.†(UNICEF [UNICEF], 1998) To plan strategically management must take into account UNCEF vision and mission and there strengths, weakness and threats to accomplish their goals.(World Health Organization [WHO], 2003, 1) An example of this is UNICEF working with all those who share their commitment to the rights of every child. Organizations such as World Health Organization (WHO) who have been working with UNICEF on a strategy to fight vaccine-preventable diseases called The Global Immunization Vision and Strategy (GIVS) goal is to fight vaccine-preventable diseases, which kill more than two million people every year, two thirds of those killed are children. WHO and UNICEF will assist governments in designing, financing and implementing national immunization programs while also taking into account et hics involving culture and religious beliefs of those who do not believe in immunizations. Tactical The tactical plan of United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) management must describe how the organizations goals will be met and by when. It must also entail plans to help assure ethical business practices throughout UNICEF. The success of these goals will depend on the quality of there programs, information, communication, advocacy and the excellence of their internal management and operations. UNICEF management must hold them selves accountable to do all that they can for the success of their goals by planning, monitoring, evaluating, and reporting to achieve the results in the five major areas to change the world to serve the best interest of the child. Operational Operational planning in Management at the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is setting out clearly the implementation of the strategic plan against specific objectives.

Cultural Values in The Left Hand of Darkness, The Fellowship of the Rin

Shaping of Cultural Values Through Environment in The Left Hand of Darkness, The Fellowship of the Ring, and Dune      Ã‚   Ursuala K. LeGuin's The Left Hand of Darkness was written after J.R.R. Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring and Frank Herbert's Dune. One of the most interesting comparisons between the three novels is how the authors treat the issue of cross-cultural misunderstandings. All three works contain many incidents where people of one race or planet encounter people of a different race or from a different planet. Tolkien treats this issue in a 'specisitc' or physiological manner. The cultural misunderstandings and clashes that arise in The Fellowship of the Ring are due to the differing physiology of the characters. Herbert deals with cultural misunderstandings in an environmental manner. In Herbert's world, cultural values depend less on which species a character belong to (because all characters seem to be "roughly" human) and instead depend on environmental variables. In The Left Hand of Darkness, LeGuin combines both approaches. The cultural misunderstandings betwe en Genly Ai and Gethenians are due both to difference in physiology and different cultural values imprinted by environmental factors .   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Tolkien's physiological approach is best seen by examining the hobbits attitude towards the outside world. The hobbits are suspicious of, and generally do not understand, non-Hobbits. This can be seen by the Shire's constant suspicion of Bilbo's past adventures. The miller Sandyman comments on Bilbo's adventures: "Elves and Dragons! I says to him. Cabbages and potatoes are better for me and you. Don't go getting mixed up in the business of your betters, or you'll land in trouble too... ...iologically different from the Gethenians and comes from a planet with a totally different environment. Both of these factors lead to numerous misunderstandings in LeGuin's novel. The difference in the three authors approaches may be seen in the debate between genetics and environment may be the broader issue. Tolkien seems to take the genetics side, Herbert takes the environmental side, and LeGuin, being the daughter of an anthropologist, realizes that both genetics and environment determine cultural values. These values often come into conflict, and when they do, misconceptions and misunderstandings are almost inevitable.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   Works Cited Herbert, Frank. Dune: 1984, Chilton Book Company LeGuin, Ursula L. The Left Hand of Darkness: 1969, Ace Book Company Tolkien, J.R.R. The Fellowship of the Ring: 1993, Houghton Mifflin Company  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Autism :: Psychology, Mental Health

Autism   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Autism is one of the mental, emotional, and behavior disorders that appears in early childhood. Autism, or autistic disorder, almost always develops within the first 3 years of a child's life. Children and adolescents with autism cannot interact normally with other people. Autism thus affects many aspects of their development.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Children with and adolescents with autism typically: -have a difficult time communicating with others -exhibit very repetitious behaviors (like rocking back and forth, head banging, or touching or twirling objects); -have a limited range of interests and activities; and -may became upset at a small change in their environment or daily routine.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although symptoms of autistic disorder sometimes can be seen in early infancy, the condition can appear after months of normal development. In most cases, it is not possible to identify any specific event that triggers autistic disorder. About 7 in every 10 children and adolescents with autistic disorder also have mental retardation or other problems with their brain function or structure.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Recent studies estimate that as many as 14 children out of 10,000 may have autism or a related condition. About 125,000 Americans are affected by these disorders, and nearly 4,000 families across the country have two or more children with autism. Three times as many boys as girls have autism.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Researchers are still unsure about what causes autism. Several studies suggest that autistic disorder might be caused by a combination of biological factors, including exposure to a virus before birth, a problem with the immune system, or genetics.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Scientists also have identified chemicals in the brain and the immune

Changing Self Essay Essay

How do composers use texts to explore concepts of Changing Self? Discuss ideas and techniques. In Gwen Harwood’s poems Prize-Giving and The Glass Jar, the prescribed text Sky-High, and the novel White Teeth by Zadie Smith, the composer have used many varying ideas and techniques to investigate and illustrate concepts of Changing Self effectively. The ideas looked at in Gwen Harwood’s poetry include imagery, retrospect, metaphor, and inversion of the connotation of adjectives. Ideas conveyed in Sky-High include imagery, retrospect, and comparison. The techniques and ideas in White Teeth, to name the most important, are long and erratic chronology, removing characters for a period and the exposing of the least important change are evident in the texts that are compared. In Gwen Harwood’s poem Prize-Giving, the composer has adeptly used imagery to examine and represent the Changing Self evident in this poem. This striking imagery at first portrays an egotistical middle aged man, such as his inurbane behaviour when he â€Å"scowled with violent distaste†. This works in revealing the major change of Eisenbart, in comparing the self-righteous man at the start of the poem, to the awkward and confused man at the end. The imagery used to describe the titian haired girl is also evocative, especially when comparing her supposed insignificance in contrast to Eisenbart, and the affect she has on him. She seems to be nothing but a cheeky, though attractive, schoolgirl: â€Å"one girl sat grinning.† This thought of her insignificance is reinforced when she â€Å"winked at nearby friends†, possibly reinforcing to Eisenbart her immaturity that was earlier established through her audacious behaviour during the opening prayer. However, Eisenbart was flung from his â€Å"calm age and power† merely by a touch of this ‘immature schoolgirl’, indicating a change. This change in the girl’s attitude is reinforced when she changed â€Å"her casual schoolgirl’s for a master’s air†, indicating the power that she has that Eisenbart has not detected thus far. In the text Sky-High by Hannah Robert, the concept of Changing Self is analysed and emphasized through retrospect, apt imagery, and change of language. â€Å"The best climbing tree† indicates the experiences of a child and their joy in everything no matter how small. However, the responsibility in the statement â€Å"it is unlikely the washing line could support me† divulges that the persona is now more responsible, and, it is discovered, also older, revealing a physical change of self. The comparisons in the final stanza show the insight that the persona now has; as seen in â€Å"I was once the curious onlooker, I now write my own semaphore secrets in colourful t-shirts†. It also shows, however, that no matter how much a person changes, that he or she is still the same person, and that they still retain what they were before. The metaphors used in The Glass Jar, and the way in which they are developed and often exaggerated, shows and typifies the change of self that is experienced by the persona, so that greater audiences may understand the experiences of a small child. Only a small child could imagine an ordinary glass jar as a â€Å"monstrance† in which the sun could be caught for the night. This vision of the â€Å"holy commonplace of field and flower† coming to save the boy is lost when he awakes from his nightmares. The religious metaphor is now lost except for the mocking image of the â€Å"resurrected sun† in the final stanza. The inversion of the usual use of adjectives shows the confusion associated with the change of self for the persona, such as the â€Å"malignant ballet†. The novel White Teeth, by Zadie Smith, develops the concept of Changing Self with a long and somewhat inconsistent chronology. All the characters in this novel, which reaches from World War Two to the end of the century, obviously change physically due to this long chronology. However, the retrospect as to how much the characters have changed in other ways is far more potent because of the extensive chronology. The comparison, for example, Josh Chalfen turning away from his family and becoming less of a nerd: he was the kind of guy â€Å"who could measure an eighth with his eyes closed (so fuck you, Millat)†. The original focus of the book on Archie Jones beguiles the reader into thinking that he is the main focus for the book. However, Archie serves  merely as a connection between all the original characters. From these characters the Jones, Iqbal, Chalfen and Bowden families and their stories emerge, and all the adults, in the end, only accentuate the changes that the children (Irie, Millat, Magid, and Josh) undergo, that is, comparing where the children have ended up to what their parents expected of them. The later and extended focus of the novel on Millat Iqbal, who changes in the most radical way out of all the characters, hides the slow and, in the sense that Millat changes, insignificant changes of Irie Jones, but her changes are more symbolic and emotional. The removal of Magid from the story means that his change of self seems sudden, because the persona is taken away at the age of nine years and only returned at the age of seventeen. In the texts Prize-Giving and The Glass Jar by Gwen Harwood, Sky-High by Hannah Robert, and White Teeth by Zadie Smith, ideas and techniques are flaunted in terms of how they are used to display the change of self in the personas. The numerous ideas used in each of the texts, often overlapping to be used in more than one text show the skill of the composers and their flexibility in applying various techniques.

Assignment Analysis of Ethical Dilemma Essay

This document contains PSYCH 610 Week 2 Learning Team Assignment Analysis of Ethical Dilemma Psychology – General Psychology Read the following scenario: A well-known researcher at a major university has two graduate student assistants. He conducts three studies in his laboratory, all of which involve very labor-intensive procedures. The graduate research assistants complete all of the data collection. They also assist in writing the Discussion section of the final article, adding their thoughts and suggestions to the various drafts. The article is accepted into a leading journal for publication. The primary researcher lists only himself as author of the article, claiming that he wrote at least 75% of the final paper. Write a 300- to 500-word discussion of the following: Describe the ethical consideration(s) with the scenario. Has the primary researcher committed an ethical violation? Use the appropriate section of the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists to justify your response. Format consistent with APA guidelines. To help you be successful in college talk with graduates from the college. This can include friends and family members. They will be able to offer advice such as which courses you should take and which ones are unnecessary. By employing the help of those who have attended the college you are going to, you can rest assured they will steer you in the right direction.

What is the relationship between leadership and stress?

In a rapidly changing world where individuals and communities live 24 by 7, communicate with different cultures at increasing internet speeds, work two to three jobs a day just to support a standardized lifestyles, leaders take the toll a level higher. Stress is evident in leadership brought about by both internal and external elements. But stress and leadership cannot be taken apart. These two elements interact and connive to bring out the best and the worst in the individual who is mandated to show the vision and lead the way no matter what. â€Å"Stress levels rocketed in 2005 – all around the world, whether economic activity was picking up or slowing down,† said Andrew Godfrey, partner at Grant Thornton. Keeping up with fast growth or combating recession are both equally stressful, although Asian business leaders are under particular strain, as their businesses and markets continue to show phenomenal growth.† (BBC, 2006) But John C. Maxwell relates adversity that causes stress as great opportunities for leaders to develop the limits of their potential. When leaders find themselves stressed out, their wisdom is challenged because it is those very moments when an individual gives in to his weaknesses. But for leaders who are experienced enough they would very well know what to do when they find themselves in the middle of a stressful situation. Congruently, leaders would often times cause stress themselves as they aim for more efficient, effective and economical ways of leading the community or the team. In this light, stress becomes a tool of the leader to forge new paths, new solutions and innovations to help the team reach their goals. In many ways, stress and leadership has always been in tandem with each other. The relationship between these two concepts has essentially led to greater heights of civilization, socialization and camaraderie between individuals, groups and cultures. At best, stress and leadership has always forged man to develop into the best possible leaders an individual can become. References BBC News. (2006, February 17) Business stress levels ‘double' BBC News Retrieved October 30, 2006, from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4720684.stm Blanchard, Kenneth Ph.D. and M.D. Spencer Johnson. 1983. The One Minute Manager. Berkley Trade Maxwell, John C. 2003. Real Leadership: The 101 Collection. Maxwell Motivation Inc. Georgia.   

Etiquette and Rule Essay

In todays modern era we are surrounded by technology all over the place. This technology Is constantly being Improved everyday. One of the most widely used technologies In the world Is the computer. Almost everything can be done on the computer these days. There are a lot of rules people need to follow on the Internet and they can all be categorized under Netiquette. Netiquette is really just a set of rules to follow in order to behave properly online. It is extremely important to know how to behave online because it can affect you in the real world as well. There are many rules In Netiquette. One of the main sets of rules is called the Ten Core Rules of Netiquette. These rules help a person be who they really are online and In reality. The flrst rule In this set Is spell check. Whenever you are communicating with someone online it is always important to spell check and proofread. Errors and misspelling can make you look less professional and it can also reduce the meaning of the message. The second rule is to never use â€Å"ALL CAPS†. This is because when somebody uses all caps online it Is considered that you are shouting at them. The recipient of the message can take this the wrong way and get offended. The third rule of the ten states, † Tell the truth†. Basically what this means Is to be honest on social networking websites and to not write anything but the truth. Lies can cause problems for you, so it is Just better to tell the truth to begin with. The fourth rule states† Be yourself’ which means be the same person online that you would be in the real world. Do not say or do things that you would not normally do. Pretending to be someone you are not online can ruin your Image. The fifth rule in this set is Do not flame or respond to flames. You should not do this because It Is unclvlllzed and a flame Is an Insult. Continuing with the ten core rules, the sixth rule is to not click on any spam or send any spam. These pop ups and spam can lead to malware, viruses, and malware. These viruses can damage your computer software and slow down the performance. The seventh rule of the code is to be conservative in the emails you send. This is because it Is better to have quality over quantity; It Is better to get straight to the point. The eight rule also has to do with email. This rule Is to not send email late at night. If you send a email late at night It might make the employer or recipient wonder what you are doing up that late. The ninth rule is to shop on secure websites. This is important because you do not want to disclose any personal information on the Internet. Lastly the tenth rule of this code is to always be discreet with what you do online. This can include making profiles, posting comments and sending messages. You never know who Is watching and what can be on the line. Of course you must exercise these rules more when you are not using your own computer. For example if you are using a school laptop and you cannot log into your personal accounts, because if you forget to sign out somebody can send all sorts of hings out and create a bad image of you. Additionally when you use someone else’s computer or laptop, you have to avoid going to websites that have too many pop up links or follow up any spam. The reason to this Is because it can lead to viruses, which will not content the owner of the computer or laptop. Some people think that because nothing you do on the Internet is private or gone forever. Once you send a message there is no way off getting it back, The person reading the message can save your email or can also forward it to others. This is why writing appropriate and not offensive are one of the important rules to follow as well. There are many reasons why it is important to communicate appropriately online. The reason why is because it shows the reader you are serious and it also gives them a clue of what kind of person you are.. The reader can automatically tell what kind of person you are once you send them your email by the way you talk in the email. You have to be as clear and to the point as possible to avoid any conflict and keep your job. I have seen many situations in where there was good etiquette and bad etiquette used. One example of good netiquette that I have see was when my dad was going to uy something online he made sure that every website had the secure check on it. This helped to protect personal information while checking out. One example of bad netiquette that I have seen was when a student from my old school was emailing a teacher and he was using slang in the message. This was unprofessional and I told him to fix it before he sent it. Overall when you are using the Internet there are a lot of rules to follow so that you don’t look unprofessional. These netiquette rules help many people be themselves online and also help a lot of people keep their Jobs.

Write a critical review of Plutarch Life of Crassus Essay

Write a critical review of Plutarch Life of Crassus - Essay Example s necessary to take into account inappropriate behavior of the great ancient leaders and it would be better to focus on their strengths and not on their vices. There is no need to focus on the biography of Crassus if not to consider moral and ethical implications provided by Plutarch in this biography. There is a lot of incongruence and the biography of Crassus is rather imbalanced. The way Plutarch describes Crassus head, which is served to the Parthian king is a way of ambitious depiction of the negative side of glory. There are two main drawbacks, which Crassus has: the first one is his ambition and the second one is avarice. Plutarch is a magnificent bibliographer. The lives of ancient Greeks are highly informative and the personalities, who were described by Plutarch, are extraordinary and leading people of the ancient times. The main feature of bibliographical discussions by Plutarch is the reflection of his personal opinion. The Life of Crassus is evidently considered from a negative perspective. On the example of Crassus Plutarch intends to teach a moral lesson to his readers. The main negative feature of Crassus was his avarice. Moreover, this vice was dominant over all other vices, because the other vices could be crossed by the vice of avarice (Plutarch, The Life of Crassus). This claim was positioned by Plutarch in the beginning of biography of Crassus. Therefore, the readers consider Crassus from a negative perspective. Other virtues of Crassus are opposed to the main vice of the main character. Plutarch underlines the main vice of Crassus in an intensive manner (Zadorojniy, 1997). Otherwise, the readers would not be so much concerned about avarice as the main vice of Crassus. In such a way, Plutarch positions greed as the main destructive feature of Crassus. Still, Crassus is positioned as a kind man and we cannot claim that this character is bad to the bones. He often helped people in time and thus people relied on him greatly. Moreover,

Traveling Abroad Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Traveling Abroad - Essay Example Venezuela, Russia, South Korea and China, have also been enlisted to be ranked in the category of projecting unfriendliness towards foreign visitors (Cha, 2013). Nevertheless, as these places present some unique tourism cultures and attractions, tourists can take certain preventive measures when visiting these places. It is worth mentioning in this context that the top priority of every tourist or traveller should be to look forward to his/her own safety first and then, worry about their travelling experiences. An individual should also take into consideration certain essential facts before going for an international trip. Above all, the most important fact is that every foreign visitor, no matter to whichever nation they visit, should go through the past records of every foreign visitor related crime that occurred within that nation and take requisite measures thereto (U. S. Passport & International Travel, 2014). They should also have some formulated backup planning about how to save themselves in case they get into any sort of trouble. Apart from this, the travelers should also book travel packages through registered traveling agencies. Adding to that, they should continuously keep in touch with their family members or some local law authorities who might be helpful in case the travelling individuals get into any sort of trouble (U. S. Passport & International Travel, 2014). Moreover, every international airport is quite likely to maintain a certain degree of safety and an authoritative body who can provide necessary information on the risk rates of various areas within their countries. Apart from these safety measures, the tourists should also keep hold of their necessary identification documents. They should avoid high level of exposure and contact with local inhabitants as well. The visitors should further keep

U.S. History Civil War-Present Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

U.S. History Civil War-Present - Assignment Example On the other hand, social conservatism were those who were staunch supporters of social values. The two types of conservatives have worked towards building the political position of America up o where it is as of now. Different leaders supported conservatism in their own ways. For instance, President J. F. Kennedy, illuminated conservatism by advocating that all rights of the people are protected. During the 80’s president Ronald Regan favored the conservative side by reducing taxes, deregulation, increasing the US military budget, just to mention but a few (Berkin, 1865). This era was dubbed as the ‘’Regan era’’. Initially, conservatism was only associated with the Republican Party. However, things started changing in the 50’s where southerners became conservatives due to segregation. This triggered a coalition that helped to foster domestic legislation. The union of the two conservatives came up with ideologies that were not well received by the Soviet Union. In the end, the Soviet Union could no longer trust the United States hence the beginning of a historical rivalry (Berkin, 1865). The Soviet Union was so engrossed in its bid to expand communism that it started creating alliances with different nations against America. In the end, America is seen as a country whose cultural structure influences how politics are run. And this works best for America as a nation. In as much as the Soviet Union was not impressed by this move, the American culture stood the test of time of the soviet’s opposition. The 1980s American history shaped the nature of difference in cultural and social standings in the state. Reagan’s administration applied various responsive measures to balance these differences. A later influx of other cultures such as Latinos and Asians made these efforts more difficult. In the 1980s the United States embarked on a worldwide mission to spread its democratic ideals. It is the systems and institutions set up during this time that

Social Web Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Social Web - Research Paper Example Besides pros there are several cons of maintaining these connections as well. This is a very grave issue as these side effects are negatively shaping the human society and leading it into a dangerous future. The current report mentions what negative effects these advancements are having on the individuals of the society and thus on the society as a whole. Some future trends of the so called social web are also highlighted along with addressing some measures that should be looked up by governing authorities. This is essential for a safer and prosperous future. INTRODUCTION Social Web is the new terminology with which the visual social connections of each digital device are connected to each other via the internet. The platforms that support the evolution and maintenance of the social connections are various and limitless. Examples of platforms supporting social web profiles are Facebook, Twitter, Orkut LinkdIn etc. The globalization of today’s world sees it as such that virtual ly every human being is connected to the web in one way or the other. People connected to the internet have the privilege of accessing all other sorts of information on it. Via the Internet anyone connected to it can stay up-to-date with the very latest information, can telecommute, check stock prices, compare prices and shop online, communicate with others in chat rooms or on bulletin boards, take different online learning courses, learn how to cook food, train tickets and even earn an accredited degree.... BACKGROUND/HISTORY The roots of communications and information technology can roughly be dated back to the advent of ‘telephone’ by Graham Bell in the year 1875 (Saari, 2006). It is the tenure from the analog telephone to the most well equipped cell phones today that modified the lifestyles of their users’ en-route. Thus behavioral changes on the fronts of societies were also exhibited. American computer scientist Alan Kay said, "Technology is all that stuff that wasn't around when (you) were born   because the stuff that was around when you were born   was just part of the landscape. Like the pencil." Also, McLuhan (1960) said, "The new electronic interdependence recreates the world in the image of a global village"   Once, invented the technological changes went on at a very rapid rate, quick decisions were made regarding the changes in each decade. Presently, decisions need to be formulated that would cater to the long lasting consequences of the very adv anced changes on the society. The social and economic impacts of these technologies are the most important changes that should never be overlooked. As said by mathematician Konsbruck Lee Robert, (n.d.) â€Å"Today, innovations in information technology are having wide-ranging effects across numerous domains of society, and policy makers are acting on issues involving economic productivity, intellectual property rights, privacy protection, and affordability of and access to information. Choices made now will have long- lasting consequences, and attention must be paid to their social and economic impacts.† The social impacts of Information and technology advancements have turned the present human society upside down from what it used

Entrepreneurship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Entrepreneurship - Essay Example Individuals who qualify to be entrepreneurs must be creative with abilities to come up with solutions to curb the emerging challenges in the business atmosphere. As a result of their efforts to utilize the resources available and exploit the opportunities available, entrepreneurs enjoy rewards in the form of increased profits and strong customer loyalty. Leadership and creative characteristics of an entrepreneur One of the major leadership characteristics of an entrepreneur is the ability to form strong teams that are vital in the achievement of their own goals as well as those of the entire business. Additionally, management skills are essential for the success of any entrepreneur. For example, since most of the entrepreneurs are manage and control their employees without being accountable to the directors or other senior people, they should have excellent management skills. In this way, they are able to formulate effective policies that guide other employees in their responsibiliti es. In the same way, entrepreneur must have adequate marketing skills. In this way, they will be able to come up with innovative products that will effectively face off their competitors in the market. Skills in customer care and environment analysis are additional characteristics that assist an entrepreneur in maintaining high level of customer loyalty. Skills in environment analysis are fundamental in the sense that they helps an entrepreneur when undertaking a SWOT analysis especially when expanding his or her venture, while contemplating on going global or when forming merger with related firms. How to become a successful entrepreneur One of the major ways to become a successful entrepreneur is by doing what you enjoy most. By undertaking a business venture in the field that one enjoys, an individual will gain from personal satisfaction and financial gain. To ensure a successful business, an entrepreneur should adopt the culture of planning all his or her undertakings. Business planning is vital on the bases that it helps business owners in analyzing business situation thus making a viable conclusion. Additionally, business planning assists entrepreneurs in developing individual and corporate goals. Being used as a yardstick of raising the business to the next level, business plan is used by successful entrepreneurs, as an avenue of raising extra capital from the investors and financial institutions. Successful companies manage money wisely. In order to ensure that businesses meet the short-term and long-term liabilities it is fundamental to ensure that cash outflow is maintained at the minimum level while the inflows are maximized. A successful entrepreneur must be able to pay for the inventory and services as well as replace tools and equipments that are used in the production facility. One of the major ways of effective money management is to ensure that income generated from the exchange of goods and services is appropriately utilized. In this way, a b usiness is able to meet its goals. Secondly, an entrepreneur must ensure that adequate money is kept to cater for wages, supplies and inventory that are vital for the daily

For and Against Nuclear Power Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

For and Against Nuclear Power - Essay Example There has been varying views about nuclear power. Some people are against nuclear while others support nuclear power as a source of energy and electricity. Nuclear power is believed to be an alternative to threats of global warming. In addition, it offers unlimited source of electricity and energy. Actually, green house emissions contribute to rise globally causing an increased temperature rise. Electricity generation is a major contributor of greenhouse gas mainly due to burning of fossil fuels. On the other hand, nuclear plant does not emit carbon dioxide that is one of the major components of green house gas. Therefore nuclear power acts as a complement to other non-polluting source liken wind and solar. Moreover, nuclear power is the most reliable source of energy. There is possibility of having reliable and enough energy from nuclear plant twenty with no disruption. Nuclear power is not subject to wind, sun or tides. The amount of energy needed can be regulated. Additionally, wa ste resulting from nuclear power is minimal and accumulates after many years. Hence, there is no harm to the environment. In addition, nuclear power increases country dependence on its own source of energy. This will help a country avoid unstable supply of oil and gas usually due to conflicts arising in source countries. Hence, Supply disruption will not affect countries that have adopted nuclear power (Ferguson, & Council on Foreign Relations, 2007). However, there are still some disadvantages of nuclear power. Of the most important is the cost of building a nuclear plant. In fact, it is uneconomical compared top other source of energy. Country economy is affected significantly. Moreover, nuclear power site are becoming the target for terrorist attack. Such an attack is likely to affect the country involved significantly. Nuclear plant releases harmful chemicals with long-term consequences to the general population. Chronic diseases

Causal Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Causal Analysis - Essay Example Thus, economic freedom characterized by an individual's increased autonomy in making decisions regarding his income and an increase in wealth-creating opportunities made available to him; is an important means to achieving political freedom because of its dispersing effect in the concentration of power (Freidman 9). Friedman illustrates this through historical evidence where capitalism, an economic arrangement focused on free markets and economic freedoms, effectively restricted centralized power from abusing its control on the political and civil liberties of citizens (10). Hence, individuals who experience economic freedom through controlling the means of production and owning private property are given a share in the political power of that society, taking power away from the central government. This shift in power structure creates incentives for governments to give in to demands for civil and political liberties, creating the necessary conditions to achieve political freedoms an d democracy (Friedman 11). Economic freedom is therefore a necessary cause of political freedom and democracy.

Financial Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2

Financial Analysis - Essay Example The weak market efficiency version is supported for the Pace Plc group based on the information available from the share prices. The share prices have shown fluctuating trends. While compared with those of the trends in the market indices like FTSE 250 index and technology, hardware and equipment index the trends are similar and in some years outperformed the market movements and have not declined significantly, which supports the weak form of market efficiency for the company. Hence based on the analysis in this report, it can be recommended that investors can buy the stocks of the company in spite of the fact that the company has shown poor performance in the context of global economic crisis in 2007. The evidence shows support in favour of improved financial performance in 2008 and 2009 and is still going on increasing. Financial Statements of a company are intended to give valuable information about the financial health of the company to its owner investors and lenders (Tracy, 2004). In other words, they are supposed to give information about the financial position, performance and changes in financial position of the company. In this report, the financial performance of Pace Plc listed in the London Stock Exchange is analyzed. The objective of the study is to analyze the financial performance of the group and to recommend whether or not to invest in the company’s shares based on the analysis. The financial performance is analyzed using financial ratio analysis and share price analysis. This report is organized as follows. Section 2 discusses the company history and business. Section 3 discusses the methodology. Section 4 discusses the analysis and results. Section 5 concludes the report. Pace Plc is one of the most famous digital TV technology developers in the pay TV industry, with its headquarters in Saltaire, UK (Pace Plc, 2009a). It was founded in 1982. It has

Getting The Extra Bit Out Of Your Employees Essay Example for Free

Getting The Extra Bit Out Of Your Employees Essay An employee is required to contribute 40 to 48 hours of productive work in terms of service or visible output. The very purpose of employment is for the employer to generate enough revenue so that he can not only pay your wages, but also make some profit for himself and retain a portion of the profits for contingencies. It is widely accepted that in most cases though the employer is required by law to pay the employee for all the 365 days of the year, the employee output is restricted to some 250 days or in that region. Thus, even when the employee is not working, the employer has to support him/her. The manufacturing sector can lay down norms to measure the output of each employee and relate it to the quantum of work produced. But, in the services sector it is difficult to quantify the output of each individual. The flow of work can also not be uniform in the case of the services sector. Evaluation: In this context, let us examine the working of a Supermarket. The flow of customers into the supermarket will vary during the day as also during the month. In most cases, the evenings will see more customers coming in, while the mornings will see fewer of them. The noon period of the day can be thinner still. Thus, we have a situation where the productive output of the employee is not available to the employer all through the 7 or 8 hours that he/she spends in the Supermarket. So, the effective throughput (actual time spent in producing goods/services) diminishes to anywhere between 5 and 6 or 4 and 6 hours. The employer has to earn adequate revenue to compensate the employees and even take care of eventualities. Therefore, in most parts of the world, employers, particularly in the services sector, manage to get that extra bit of work done by each employee. Institutions, enterprises or organizations strive continuously to optimize their return on investment and use employee motivation as a major tool to achieve this. After all, it is the collective performance of employees that would manifest itself into a successful enterprise. It is not essential at all times to monetize motivation. There are several other means of motivating the employees to get optimal results. For example, in the case under discussion, we need to get an extra 30 minutes of work from each employee. The employer is unwilling to pay for that extra time or simply cannot afford to. So many terminologies and reasons will be attributed to safeguard that extra bit of money. But, heads of departments still have to achieve the desired results and with no extra money available in their hands. Conclusion: Though money is very important to employees, other factors go into employment. In the instant case, the manager can explain to the employees that by spending an extra 30 minutes after the scheduled time and reorganizing the merchandise for the next day, they will be able to start right away when they commence work on the following day. Customers walking in during the first hour will be able to transact their business quickly and this in turn will bring in more of such early customers. Another method is to address all the employees together and evolve a pattern whereby some employees can report early for work and leave at the scheduled time, some employees can shrink their breaks to accommodate the extra time required, and some can even leave late. After all, every one of us spend a lions share of the daylight hours in our respective breadwinning activity. With the correct methodology employed, getting employees to contribute 30 minutes of extra work per day can be achieved without denting the employer’s purse.

Psychological Well-being and Job Performance Relationship

Psychological Well-being and Job Performance Relationship Introduction Psychological conceptions and treatments of well-being are a prominent feature of psychological literature particularly in relation to mental health from a social-psychological point of view. The fundamental questions asked in this area are arguably concerned with the way and means of understanding the psychological reactions of individuals to the stresses and challenges of modern day life activities, (Bradburn, 1969). With work being one of the major activities of life it is reasonable to surmise work will have a significant impact on mental health and that vice versa mental health will have a significant impact on a person’s performance and experience of work. With the diversity of criteria which can be used to judge mental health the psychological aspects to mental health have become increasingly important associated in human resource management literature as well organisational behaviour research because of the suggested strong relationship between an individual’s p sychological condition and job performance. Researchers such as David and Smeeding (1985) and more recently Wright and Cropanzano (2004) argue that psychological well-being in terms of happiness contributes to maximising both personal health as well as job performance in terms of organisational productivity. It is reasonable to believe that such a consideration of mental health has valuable implications in managing human resources. With links to employee motivation and job performance management and from an organisational perspective the theoretical framework offered by mental health provides a useful tool in understanding an organisation’s behaviour through reference to the psychological well-being of individuals within the organisational context. In one way then considering for example staff retention which is a key element of organisational strategies since human resources have been viewed recently as one of the most important resources for any organisation, (Torrington, Hall and Taylor (2002). Furthermore happy employees tend to be more productive and contribute more in creation and innovation activities which are crucial activities for organisations given the competitive realities of the modern business world, (Wright and Cropanzano, 2004). However currently there is no gener al agreement about the best way to measure, assess and/or evaluate people’s psychological states. Terms such as self-esteem, self adjustment in dealing with work stress have critical influences on the level of well-being. Social support at work related to psychological well-being may be said to affect productivity of employees which itself is argued to have positive effects on job control, lower job depression and generate higher productivity. Nevertheless the extent to which social support contributes to better performance remains unclear due to the complexities of psychological reactions and the processes comprising them. Discussion An important perspective on well-being originates from the social-psychological perspective which focuses on viewing well-being in both an individual and social sense. One means of conceptualising well-being is in an individual psychological manner where the subject is linked with economic models in that individuals make rational responses in changing their behaviour due to changing prices and incomes. Another traditional aspect of the subjective activity of well-being focuses on the measurement of well-being for social policy purposes which historically has been concerned with tax return, pensions, use of health care resources and work environment affairs, (David Smeeding, 1985). From this point of view there are vital implications in the sense of the psychological subject in human resource management and studies dealing with organisational behaviour since people as the essential elements performing tasks in these contexts. For example the recent broaden-and-build model has been de signed to provide relevant evidence towards explaining the possible interactive role of physiological well-being (PWB) associated with job satisfaction and job performance which demonstrates significant relationships to employee performance, (Wright and Cropanzano, 2004). This is to say illustrating the strength of the correlation between the happier an employee feeling with the more productive they are in their everyday job performance. Based on this viewpoint then human resource management approaches have aimed at building management models which draw from and benefit from PWB in order to improve an organisation’s performance in terms of quality and quantity. A principal point of consideration in this then is the environment in which people are working in as detrimental work environments pose potential health risks to individuals. Health risks can be seen in terms of the physical harm done to people’s bodies but also as having negative influences in a psychological manner including depression and stress which results in poor job performance and lowered productivity. Thus PWB suggests that a better and healthier working environment will be able to make employee feels more comfortable and happier through health gains in harm avoidance in the work place. In HRM literature environment not only includes physical environments such as machinery, organisational structure but also intangible contexts like orga nisational culture and leadership styles and these are equally as important in terms of employee well-being. Therefore Beardwell, Holden and Claydon (2004) argue that appropriate organisational structures in terms of physical power distance as well as intangible distance such as leadership style are important in contributing to employees job performance. Research suggests that long power distances result in staff at lower levels within an organisation feeling powerless and vulnerable with the consequences being they suffer stress at work since there is a lack of opportunity in expressing themselves within the decision making processes affecting them, (Hersey, Blanchard Johnson, 2001). Additionally the corporate environment in terms of employment contracts themselves a process of socio-economic exchange often in national contexts is particularly crucial as it defines formalised arrangements between employee and the organisation employing, (Clark, 2004). Contracts between employee and employer determine the terms and conditions of employment like security and health issues related to the job and contractual employment rights. Clark (2004) points out that the relationship between employees and management teams not only impacts on corporate performance but also influences how successful and organisation is at retaining its workforce. While Wright and Cropanzano (2004) concentrate on the psychological meaning of well-being in contributing to better job performance David and Smeeding (1985) propose that significant attention be paid to well-being from an economic perspective. Economic elements such as changing prices compared to incomes then are proposed as affecting people’s behaviours and psychological reactions. For instance research has demonstrated that higher income individuals are more likely than lower income individuals to report themselves as enjoying higher levels of happiness, (David and Smeeding, 1985). It hence is unsurprising to note that traditional human resource management approaches view performance management as enhancing individual performance by assessing past performance and rewarding improvements in terms of tangible economic benefits, (Walker, 1992). Jacques (1962) claims that every employee displays strong feeling towards to the level of payment in that such payments correspond to t he perceived values attached to the performance of tasks associated with the job. This economic model closely reflects psychological conceptions in that when employees feel they are underpaid job performance will suffer in terms of productivity and efficiency. Wright and Cropanzano’s model suggests that fair payment contributes to the happiness level of staff however it is vital to mention that the expectation of employee namely the subjectivity of well-being largely indicates different attitudes towards fairness. This is to say the employee who is paid comparably higher than others due to higher levels of education and vocational skill might feel unhappy because the pay level is still lower than the expected level. This is similar with subjective accounts of poverty of the unemployed being more a negative experience than poverty as a student dependent on their ability to adjust the reality of situations with their expectations. This corresponds with David and Smeeding’s (1985) framework on the subjectivity of well-being as a personalised experience. Recent research carried out by Gregg and Wadsworth (1999) illustrated that a good number of employee departures was due to either poorly managed expectations or ineffective induc tions into positions. This is an important point in considering psychological well-being and individual productivity as well as organisational performance illustrating that tangible economic benefits or objective conditions attached to jobs may be perceived in many different ways as a result of individual subjectivity. Wright and Hobfoll’s (2004) work linked with Wright and Cropanzano’s (2004) research in demonstrating that psychological well-being has both positive and negative influences on job performance. One such concept is that of employee burnout which refers to emotional and/or physical exhaustion and reduced personal accomplishment amongst sufferers. Employees tend to feel dissatisfied due to poor task completion and personal achievement in turn. Past experiences of failure in dealing with customers for example is suggested as being one prime means of reducing motivational attitudes towards work. With people being considered as the most important resource in contributing to organisational performance then human resource management has itself been put in a critical position in strategic decision making processes. Aspects of managing human resources have become involved in a wide range of issues such as recruitment and retention related to development, reward and relationship m anagement of employees are arguably the basic HRM functions. The process of retention of workforces lays the foundation for obtaining suitably qualified employees in order to contribute in the most effective manner to achieving corporate goals in a cost-effective manner, (Foot Hook, 1999). The relationship to these HR principles of the thesis of psychological well-being in one ways shows clearly that motivation in the employee retention process as well as better performance is a principal factor determining organisational success in these areas. Also from an individual’s perspective burnout as suggested by research tends to result in ineffectiveness and failure in job performance due to a lack of energy levels in an emotional and physical sense. This leads to stress which in turn can cause ill-health both physical and mental. Similarly from the organisation’s perspective innovation levels tends to decrease which as has been argued is important in maintaining competiti ve position for companies operating in intensively competitive industries, (Maslach Jackson, 1986; Lee Ashforth, 1996). Based on this analysis and discussion of psychological well being it would appear that a useful measure is to examine the various approaches used to improve job performance and productivity at personal and organisational levels. People are motivated by different things dependent on different individual value systems and expectations. As such in order to increase well being levels among employees organisations attempt to create better working environments relying on supportive corporate cultures, effective leadership styles and the provision of accessible communication channels. An awareness that motivation does not necessarily flow from positive salary arrangements alone is necessary as often such is considered as the most effective tool in rewarding and motivating employees. Instead potential career development opportunities for employees, employee friendly working environments and supportive management methods exert strong influences on feelings of well-being among employees. For example positive rewards in a tangible way and intangible confirmations related to good performance should encourage employees to repeat the same activities since the rewarding of successful behaviour contributes to employee’s levels of self esteem. In many ways then it is fair to say that psychological processes and subjective feelings and experiences remain complex phenomena and would seem to be influenced by a range of factors such as national cultures and the effects of reference groups like families and peer groups in for example expected income levels and job status, (Mullins, 2005). The measurement of psychological well-being contributing to better performance is conditionally true yet it must be acknowledged that the methods used in research such as by Wright and Cropanzano’s (2004) exhibit and are limited by the potential problems related to subjective reactions and perceptions of job performance by employees. Conclusion Models and theories of psychological well-being are established topics in Psychology which is held as being closely linked with conceptualisations of mental health and the mental well being of individuals. The variety of psychological reactions of individuals to stress and daily life can all result in feeling of happiness, mental health or illness depending on situational factors which has effects on people’s performance at work. As a result then psychological conceptions of well-being are widely used in considering the relationship between well-being and job performance in an organisational context. Studies have demonstrated the positive effects of employee well-being on their job performance in terms of better productivity yet due to the complex psychological processes which are involved in the condition of well-being there is still a lack of definitive evidence in demonstrating to what extent psychological well-being contributes to better job performance. Such evidence is d ifficult to produce for example bearing in mind complicated human behavioural patterns and experiences in relation to work. Linked to this definitions of happiness remain unclear and is an area which requires further research along with further explorations of the reasons feeling of satisfaction and happiness with work increases productivity. However it is fair to say that better health levels in terms of psychological well being influences people in terms of motivation and attitudes toward work as well as their capacity and ability to work. The reduction of employee sickness whether major or minor due to poor working conditions and the impact this has on organisational performance is one aspect any organisation should seek to reduce and minimise as a strategic goal. References Beardwell, I., Holden, L. Claydon, T. (2004) Human Resource Management: A Contemporary Approach 4th edition, FT Prentice Hall, London UK. Bradburn, N.M. (1969) The Structure of Psychological Well-Being, Aldine Publishing Company, Chicago. David, M. Smeeding T. (1985) Introduction, in David, M. Smeeding, T. (eds) Horizontal Equity, Uncertainty, and Economic Well-Being, National Bureau of Economic Research, Studies in Income and Wealth, Vol. 50. Foot, M. Hook, C. (1999) Introducing Human Resource Management 2nd edition, Pearson Education Limited, UK. Gregg, P. Wadsworth, J. (1999) Job Tenure 1995-98 in Gregg, P. Wadsworth (eds) The State of Working Britain, Manchester University Press, UK. Hersey, P., Blanchard, K.H. Johnson, D. (2001) Management of Organizational Behavior: Leading Human Resources, Prentice Hall, USA. Jacques, C. (1962) Objective Measures for Pay Differentials, Harvard Business Review, January-February. Lee, R.T. Ashforth, B.E. (1996) A Meta-analytic Examination of the Correlates of the Three Dimensions of Job Burnout, Journal of Applied Psychology, Vol. 81. Maslach, C. Jackson, S.E. (1986) Maslach Burnout Inventory 2nd edition, Consulting Psychologists Press, USA. Mullins, L.J. (2005) Management and Organisational Behaviour 7th edition, FT Prentice Hall, Harlow UK. Park, K., Wilson, M.G. Lee, M.S. (2004) Effects of Social Support at Work on Depression and Organisational Productivity, American Journal of Health Behaviour, Vol. 28 Issue 5. Torrington, D., Hall, L. Taylor, S. (2002) Human Resource Management, FT Prentice Hall, Harlow UK Walker, K.W. (1992) Human Resource Strategy, McGraw-Hill, New York USA. Wright, T.A. Cropanzano, R. (2004) The Role of Psychological Well-Being in Job Performance: a Fresh Look at an Age-Old Quest, Organizational Dynamics, Vol.33 Issue 4. Wright, T.A. Hobfoll, S.E. (2004) Commitment, Psychological Well-Being, and Job Performance: An Examination of Conservation of Resources Theory and Job Burnout, Journal of Business and Management, Winter Vol.9 Issue 4.