Case Study Apple Inc. Essay - 1382 Words

SEATTLE PACIFIC UNIVERSITY APPLE INC. INDUSTRY ANALYSIS QING JIA (900278801) BUS 6110: MACROECONOMICS FOR MANAGERS PROF. JENNIFER MEREDITH NOVEMBER 6, 2016 Apple Inc. Industry Analysis Part B a. Source: Apple This graph shows the total number of Apple employees at the end of each fiscal year from 2005 to 2016. As of 2016, the total number of full-time employees had reached more than 110 thousand. Apple is the most valuable brand in the world in 2016 (Forbes, 2016), but it is not the world’s largest companies in terms of staff. A lot of companies in technology industry, such as Amazon and Samsung, have a larger number of employees than Apple. The median annual salary for computer science and information technology was $81,430 in May 2015 (Bureau of Labor Statistics,2015). The average salary for a manager in Apple is $80,168. If we take the bonuses and compensation into consideration, a manager can reach to an average of $92,887 (Glassdoor). Unemployment rate in the U.S. information sector Industry Number of unemployed persons in information (in thousands) Unemployment rates in information Average unemployment rate in the U.S. Sept. 2015 Sept. 2016 Sept. 2015 Sept. 2016 Sept. 2015 Sept. 2016 Information 126 139 4.7 5.2 5.1 5.0 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics This table shows the number of unemployed persons and unemployment rate in the information sector on September 2015 and September 2016. According to the â€Å"Labor ForceShow MoreRelatedCase Study : Apple Inc.1349 Words   |  6 Pages Case Analysis: APPLE INC.: IPODS AND ITUNES Donna Martinelli TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY September 3, 2014 Table of Contents Executive Summary..................................................................................................3 Introduction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..3 Defining the Challenge...............................................................................................3 Analyzing the case data....................Read MoreCase Study : Apple Inc. Essay1422 Words   |  6 PagesCase Study: Apple Apple Inc. focuses on the design, manufacture, and marketing of personal computers, mobile phones, multimedia devices, and portable music players. Apple Inc. offers consumers manufactured goods under the brand names Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad, Mac, iPod, and Apple TV. Enhancing the customer experience through their proprietary software applications iOS, X, OS, and watchOS brands; and services across their Apple Pay and iCloud products (Forbes.com, 2016). Explored in detail, Apple’sRead MoreApple Inc. Case Study1494 Words   |  6 PagesApple Inc. Case Study TABLE OF CONTENTS COMPANY OVERVIEW General Description Historical Outline Industry Current Challenges Ethics and Responsibility STRATEGIC INFORMATION Mission Statement Competition SWOT Analysis HISTORICAL FINANCIAL ANALYSIS Historical Financial Information Competitive Financial Analysis Summary FUTURE PLANS Competitive Advantage Recent Performance Business Environment Recommendations Zackery Butler, Connor Daugherty, Stanashia Davis, Gabrielle Drohan, and Lauren SpearsRead MoreCase Study : Apple Inc.1971 Words   |  8 PagesCritical Essay Introduction Apple Inc. is a globally recognised pioneer in the tech industry. It is a corporation that designs, develops and sells electronic products such as tablets, computers and phones. Founded by Ronald Wayne, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1976, it is a multinational corporation with headquarters in Cupertino, California. Tim Cook has been CEO since Jobs’ passing in 2011. Labour conditions Despite its global recognition and status, Apple Inc. has come under scrutiny in recentRead MoreCase Study : Apple Inc.2083 Words   |  9 PagesBackground This paper presents a case study of Apple Inc. Apple Inc. is a technology based corporation with emphasis on computer software and hardware (MAC and Apps), tablets (IPad), smart phones (IPhone), and mp3 plays, (ITouch). Apple Inc. has grown tremendously over the years and ever since 2001 has expanded its brand and retail stores to over 375 stores/outlets globally. The business has seventy two thousand eight hundred employees in thirty eight countries. Apple Inc. has truly become one of theRead MoreCase Study : Apple Inc. Essay6014 Words   |  25 PagesIntroduction On a daily basis we all encounter all forms of technology. There are several technological corporations in the current industry but one stands out†¦.Apple Inc. Apple Inc. is an international corporation, situated in Cupertino, California. The company designs, manufactures and markets consumer electronics and computer software products. Apple is well known for its hardware products such as Macintosh computers, the iPod, the iPhone and its innovative software such as the Mac OS X operating systemRead MoreCase Study : Apple Inc.1943 Words   |  8 Pages Apple Inc was incorporated in 1977 by Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs. As a startup company Apple Inc went through several management changes and conflicts which caused the company to lose some of its competitive advantage against companies like Dell, Gateway and Microsoft. The company designs and manufactures various products in the computer and music industry. Apple being strictly a personal computer company decided to venture into marketing other products like the iPod, a digital music player, andRead MoreApple Inc Case Study851 Words   |  4 PagesApple inc. 1) Introduction Background and summary This article present the story of Steve Jobs and it’s Apple company through two aspects. From the company history perspective and the product industry perspective. On company history side: Apple was founded by two Steves. Apple board later fired Jobs and gradually went near bankruptcy. Till 1997, Apple brought back Jobs and became the most valuable company in the world in 2012. On the product industry side, Article dig into the fieldRead MoreCase Study : Apple Inc.1417 Words   |  6 Pageschanged the world with Apple Inc Company. Both of them was out of college, they were making so much money in the computer company Apple was started with introduction of computer I computer on April 1, 1976. Apple was incorporated January 3, 1977. The Apple II was introduced on April 16, 1977 at the first West Coast computer Faire. The Apple II was chosen to be the desktop platform for the ground breaking use call spreadsheet program. He was created a business market for the Apple II and gave home usersRead MoreCase Study : Apple Inc.1732 Words   |  7 PagesApple Inc. is a California based company that was incorporated in 1977. According to University of Oregon Investment Group, â€Å"Apple operates out of 8 different segments: Desktops, Portables, iPod, iPhone, iPad, other music related products and services, peripherals and other hardware, software, service and oth er sales† (2012). According to the company’s 2013 10-K, â€Å"Apple sells its products worldwide through its retail stores, online stores, and direct sales force, as well as through third-party cellular

Pros And Cons Of Assisted Suicide - 1743 Words

What is assisted suicide? Merriam-Webster lists assisted suicide as â€Å"suicide committed by someone with assistance from another† (Assisted Suicide, n.d.). Particularly by a licensed health care provider/physician willing to participate and authorized by the state. The physician will assist with, in administering an approved prescription drug and a lethal dosage. Assisted suicide acts upon the legal request and approval of state law and patient request for the reasons of a terminal condition in order to end unbearable suffering. Not all states in the U.S. are authorized or have approval to perform such patient request. CNN article lists the states mandated by state law as Oregon, Vermont, Washington, California, Colorado, and the District†¦show more content†¦Article 2). The human being has rights and religious beliefs that must be respectfully accepted and recognized as such. The human rights declaration is stated to be the freedom, justice and peace of the nations. Overall, the rights of fairness, freedom to make own our decisions and opinion known, reasonable justice in accordance to the people, and tranquility. The United Nations and a general consent for the purpose of all people and nations declared the Universal Declaration of Human Rights official. The declaration is translated into 500 languages and available for anyone. The morale right to choose freely and having the option for physician-assisted suicide can decrease self- suicides and the consequences from a loved one having to take action on their own behalf. Loved ones do all they can to alleviate, decrease, and take mind off heighten senses due to pain and suffering. If a strong belief in something exists, sometimes having the option can change the end decision. Not having the option can push a person to commit irreversible actions. The importance is having the right to decide. The declaration states, â€Å"All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights† (Universal Declaration of Human Rights, n.d.Show MoreRelatedPros And Cons Of Assisted Suicide1609 Words   |  7 PagesAssisted Suicide Assisted suicide is when you give someone else permission like a physician, to kill you. Assisted suicide is legal in at least six states (Tolle, 1996) and there is lots of people who wanted to die because the disease they might have at the moment is just too much for them. If a patient that wanted to die the they would either talk to a physician or their doctor and give the doctor permission to just kill the patient. Assisted suicide can only happen when your medication is notRead MorePros and Cons on Assisted Suicide - Essay1221 Words   |  5 PagesKeri Starkel Pros and cons on assisted suicide Pages 5 What happens to a person when they get so depressed that they are on the verge of suicide? Well the only answer would be to commit it but what if that person cant find the guts to go through it alone. Well then they ask for assistance. This is called assisted suicide. Assisted suicide or in other words euthanasia is the killing by an act of an independent human being for their own benefit. There are many kinds of definitions that one mustRead MoreAssisted Suicide878 Words   |  4 PagesPersuasive  Essay  Ã‚     Assisted  suicide  is  the  suicide  of  a  person,  done  with  the  help  of  another  person  but   mostly  a  physician.  (Wikipedia)  This  can  be  a  very  debatable  topic  because  it  has  actually  been   legalized  in  different  parts  of  the  world.  By  having  this  act  legalized,  it  doesn’t  really  mean  that   the  assistor  won’t  get  persecuted.  Many  people  may  not  agree  with  my  point  of  view,  but  in  my   opinion  assisted  suicide  should  not  be  legalized  at  all.      First  of  all,  there  are  many  pros  such  as  ,  a  patients  pain  and  suffering  will  be  coming  to  Read MoreA Day The Thackstons Went For Their Daily Run1583 Words   |  7 Pageskidneys. He would only be around for another two or three months. He and his wife Julie asked the doctor what to do. Dr. Bennet said â€Å"There is a way to end it all quickly.† The Thackstons asked, â€Å"How doctor?† His reply â€Å"There is this aid called assisted suicide; it is where doctors can give the patient a pill and he or she will die immediately. Some patients recommend the pill if they only have months to live.† Mrs. Thackston said â€Å"Don’t think about leaving me behind. I have family and friends to supportRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide : A Right Of The People1700 Words   |  7 PagesPhysician-Assisted Suicide: A Right of the People Most people have seen at least one person in their life suffering in unbearable pain up to their death, and it’s never something people find joy in. There is nothing pleasing about being in pain or watching someone be in pain. For those people whose pain does not respond to methods of modern medicine, there should be the option of physician-assisted suicide. â€Å"Physician-assisted suicide refers to the practice of a physician prescribing or regulatingRead MoreEuthanasia 1044 Words   |  5 Pagesdrastically been modified. While the literal practice of euthanasia is illegal in the United States, Physician-Assisted-Suicide (PAS) has been made legal in several states (â€Å"Euthanasia Historical Timeline†). The difference between euthanasia and PAS is quite simple. Euthanasia involves the direct administration of drugs by the physician to the patient via an injection. However, in Physician-Assisted-Suicide, the physician provides all the information, drugs, and appara tus needed in achieving death but the patientRead MorePhysician Assisted Suicide1249 Words   |  5 Pagesallowed to help patients with suicide. Dr. Jack Kevorkian brought it to the forefront when he was arrested and senteced to over 60 years in prison even though the families of his patients showed their gratitude towards him. Recent laws in Montana, Oregon, and Washington have started the trend of Physican assisted suicide, but the U.S Attorney General’s office, are determined to prevent such laws from passing. In the following pages we will look at the pros and cons of this highly debatable issueRead MoreEuthanasia, Mercy Killing, And Euthanasia1101 Words   |  5 Pages Euthanasia, mercy killing, assisted suicide, no matter what you call it, the topic is very controversial. Personally, I would have to agree with the concept. I know that there are people who are completely against it, and there are those that would consider it in certain situations. By covering this topic maybe I can share some light on the pros of euthanasia for those against it. Euthanasia by definition is the act or practice of killing or permitting the death of hopelessly sick or injured individualsRead MoreThe Fight Over Assisted Suicide1746 Words   |  7 Pagesthirty years the fight over assisted suicide has earned a spot in the national spotlight, for both positive and negative reasons depending on your stance on the issue. There have been challenges made based off the constitution, the right to privacy and moral reasons for both sides. While there have been many notable persons of interest during this time some have helped the cause as others have hindered progress. There have been attempts to challenge physician assisted suicide based off the FourteenthRead MoreThe Legalization Of Physician Assisted Suicide1265 Words   |  6 PagesParker March, 14, 2015 Assisted Suicide Introduction There are several ethical and legal issues that are raised by the majority concerning the legalization of physician assisted suicide and the role of nurses in the process. Assisted suicide is a legal act of assisting those who are suffering from a deadly illness in ending their lives by providing them the means to do it (Griffith, 2014). Netherland was the first country to legalize physician assisted suicide. In 1994, Oregon became

What Made Canada a Leader in Human Rights Free Essays

What made Canada a world leader in Human Rights? Experiences memory of the Holocaust and the horrors of discrimination had shaped Canada’s role as a world leader in human rights. Canada had done numerous measures to eliminate racial discrimination and as well as giving Canadians equal rights they deserve. Such as drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Ontario Human rights code, Canadian Human rights Act, and as well as the Canadian Charter of rights. We will write a custom essay sample on What Made Canada a Leader in Human Rights or any similar topic only for you Order Now First, Canada’s participation and corporation in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is influential and significant, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a major milestone in the history of human rights, and many policies made by different countries are based on the declaration, such as the Canadian Charter of Rights. John Peters Humphrey, a Canadian was appointed to by the United Nations to be the principle drafter of the International Bill of Rights, which would eventually become the UN Declaration of Human Rights.He was also appointed as the Director of Human rights at the time representing 19 nations ranging from Australia to Yugoslavia, his work had definitely played an important role in drafting the Declaration. The declaration stated clearly that everybody has the equal rights, to be treated with dignity, and that nobody should be subject for torture in contrast of the treatment the Jews got from the Nazi Party. And many other rights such as right to life, liberty, and security, right to education, right to participate with cultural life, freedom of thought, conscience and religion.Without the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the whole world would be very different, for example racial discrimination would’ve been still here, meaning that another holocaust could still be possib le. Therefore Canada’s participation was rather important. Next, The Ontario Human Rights Code introduced in in 1962 was policy introduced to Ontario by the Federal Government of Canada to further more protect and to comply with the declaration of Human Rights. This proves that Canada is committed to protect and respect the declaration of human rights. It was written in six parts, each dealing with one form or discrimination. Generally, it deals with work place discrimination and racial discrimination. Such as in Part one, it states that symbols, signs, emblems or any form of logo should not to published or displayed with intentions to discriminate people, an obvious response to the Swastika made by the Nazi Party.Next, it was stated that employers or work unions cannot refuse or continue to employ a person because of their physical appearance, race, nationality or place of origin, this was probably stated because of the White People Job Position Domination in Nazi Germany during the War. Equal pay for female worker and a male worker was also mentioned in the Code that is applicable when there is a female worker and a male worker in the same working position but have a different pay.The rest of the code is about the Ontario Human rights com mission, how it is applicable for everybody in case of a complain, and rules such as complaints must be submitted in forms will be written in forms of a letter mailed or delivered to the Office of the Ontario Human Rights Commission. Essentially the whole matter about the Ontario Human Rights code is to father more reinforce the Human Rights for the people in Ontario, and an addition to eliminate sexual discriminated based on a traditional misconception that men are superior to women.Next is the Canadian Human Rights Act passed in 1977, this is an act that will establish the Canadian Human Rights Commission that will be assigned to justify and look into possible cases of Human Rights violation in Canada. The whole point of the Act is to ensure that everybody gets the equal chance and quality of employment with government positions unaffected by their race, sex, origin or any other personal traits all across Canada and not just Ontario. Canadians all have the same chance of employment as a civil worker in federal departments, chartered banks, airlines, radio stations, telephone companies and many others.And finally, there are policies established at a provincial level to each of the provinces in Canada such as th e Alberta Human Rights and Citizenship Commission, Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and many others following the Act. They specifically gave protection to human rights and work place equality to each of the provinces. In addition, since 2005, the government launched a programme called LEEP (Legislated Equality Employment Programme) to further more ensure equal opportunities to be employed in private companies registered in the programme. In Conclusion, this Act gave all Canadians a guarantee of equality in government job positions. Last but not least, the Canadian charter of Rightswas introduced in Canada as part of the Constitution Act of 1982. The Canadian Charter of Rights is a combination, improvement and addition to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Canadian Charter of Rights is a Bill of Rights that lists political and civil rights to everybody in Canada. It came into effect along with the Constitution Act of 1982 and was signed by the Queen Elizabeth II of England.Under the Charter, every Canadian essentially has several rights. Such as Fundamental Rights, ranging from freedom of religion, conscience, thought, belief, expression, speech, assembly and press, Democratic Rights, such as right to vote in an election every five years. Mobility Rights, rights to move in and out of Canada, LegalRightslike rights to be told why a Canadian is arrested and presumed innocent until proven guilty in court, Equality rights, equal treatment in courts and protection by the law.Language rights, rights to speak English or French in Canada no matter where you are and finally Minority Rights, people that are considered minority population in Canada has the rights to be educated in their own languages, that mostly is applicable to the Aboriginals. The Canadian Charter of Rights is a list of rights every Canadian is entitled to similar to the basic human rights, but with addition that will fit Canada better such as rights to speak English or French in any province in Canada.In Conclusion, Canada had done lots of effort to promote human rights, both locally and internationally after realizing the horrors of Holocaust during WWII and had done best of its ability to prevent another one. Gaining knowledge and experience over the matt er over the years had made Canada a successful leader in human rights. Canada’s effort such as the participation in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was extremely important as it was the beginning of human rights. As a result, the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Charter of Rights were subsequently introduced to Canada and changed everything forever. Works Cited â€Å"CANADIAN CHARTER OF RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS. â€Å"Electronic Frontier Canada — www. efc. ca. N. p. , n. d. Web. 21 Nov. 2010. lt;http://www. efc. ca/pages/law/charter/charter. text. htmlgt;. â€Å"Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom. â€Å"Canada Heritage. N. p. , n. d. Web. 21 Nov. 2010. lt;www. pch. gc. ca/pgm/pdp-hrp/canada/frdm-eng. cfmgt;. â€Å"Canadian Human Rights Commission :: Home :: Resources :: Links. † Canadian Human Rights Commission / Commission canadienne des droits de la personne. N. p. , n. d. Web. 21 Nov. 2010. lt;http://www. chrc-ccdp. a/links/default-eng. aspx#provincialgt;. â€Å"Onatrio Human Rights Code Chapter 93. â€Å"History of Rights. N. p. , n. d. Web. 21 Nov. 2010. lt;www. historyofrights. com/statute_pdfs/Provincial%20Statutes/Ontario%20Human%20Rights%20Code%201962. pdfgt;. Pearson, Lester. â€Å"Canada and Human Rights. â€Å"UN Canada. N. p. , n. d. Web. 21 Nov. 2010. lt;www. unac. org/rights/actguide/canada. htmlgt;. â€Å"Questions and answers about the Universal Declaration. † UNA-Canada : : ACNU. N. p. , n. d. Web. 21 Nov. 2010. lt;http://www. unac. org/rights/question. htmlgt;. How to cite What Made Canada a Leader in Human Rights, Papers

Understanding Human Resources Democratic Leadership Style

Question: 1. Identify the various forms of organisational structure, culture and management styles and to be able to give examples. 2. Describe the role of an HR department within the context of an organisation. 3. Demonstrate key activities managers undertake and the skills required when managing people within an organisation. Answer: Introduction HRM refers to the formal systems which are managed by the HR managers of an organisation in order to generate revenue by managing the concerns of the people associated with the company. Human Resource Management includes many aspects such as staffing, compensation, and employee benefits. The essay focuses on HRM functions of Capco. Human Resource Management of Capco is designed in a way to maximise the performance of employees in the context of strategic objectives of a particular employee. Different concepts of human resources included in HRM are personnel management, employee relations, performance management, leadership, and retention. 1. The flat organisational structure is suitable for Capco. The organisational culture of Capco is driven by team spirit, entrepreneurship and innovation. Capco is a multinational organisation operating over 20 locations worldwide. According to the nature of the organisational culture, flat structure is best for Capco. In a flat structure, there are very few numbers of middle management. Flat structure organisation will perfectly define the organisational nature and culture of Capco (Lustenberger 2014). The managers and the consultants of Capco are allowed to enjoy individuality and entrepreneurship within the company. Tall structure organisation will not allow this type of organisational culture. There will be many hierarchies in between where staffs and executives have to report for their specific work. The flat structure will enable smooth maintenance of open line of communication between the middle management with the junior executives (Smith et al. 2013). Integrity and openness are easy to follow while having a flat organisational structure in a company. Decentralised decision-making is possible in flat structure through employee involvement. In this structure, executives receive fast feedback from their seniors due to few middle-level managers in the organisation. Hence, quick decisions are taken regarding customer feedback or strategic perspectives (Nrman, Johnson and Gingnell 2016). Self-managing teams are encouraged in Capco for excellent performance. 2. The span of control is defined as the number of subordinates present in an organisation. Many businesses in human resource management use this term. It is discussed earlier that Capco will flourish if the company follows flat structure (Wallin, Pousette and Dellve 2014). Self-directed teams are there in Capco that have a specific level of the span of control. The span of control creates positive impact on employee motivation. The organisational culture of Capco encourages entrepreneurship, individuality, openness, good communication, etc. Employees of Capco are motivated, as they enjoy less span of control from their superiors. They are also allowed to work individually in a creative way (Wong et al. 2015). Hierarchy is an essential element in the organisational structure of a company. Different companies follow a different style of hierarchy. Being a flat organisation or a tall organisation, the hierarchy will be present in every organisation. Hierarchies of management are not only formed for controlling different activities but also for employee motivation. Employees will work hard to reach themselves in higher levels of management in the organisation (Diefenbach 2013). Employees of Capco are provided with many opportunities in socialising and grow their career within the organisation. Higher post in the hierarchy of Capco will provide employees benefits and responsibilities that are more interesting as well as challenging. 3. Among the three leadership styles mentioned in the question, the leaders of the organisation follow democratic leadership style in Capco. Democratic leadership is also known as participative leadership. As Capco is a consulting firm, democratic leadership is the best form of leadership that explores problems and finding solutions. This form of leadership will help consultants and executives to experiment the possibilities in depth leading to a discussion among different level of employees along with sharing of ideas in order to provide solutions for the problems (Goleman, Boyatzis and McKee 2013). New ideas will flow smoothly in Capco that will allow more flexibility among the employees to communicate with each other. Participative or democratic leadership include supervisors and consultants in providing ideas regarding business solutions, as well as they, can participate in the major decision-making process of the company (Teles 2015). Openness in working environment is maintaine d in Capco that can be possible by following democratic leadership within the organisation. This form of leadership is responsible for bringing the best from an experienced professional team. Democratic leaders capitalise on the talents and skills of the consultants by providing them with an opportunity in sharing their views in front of everyone rather than simply expecting the employees to conform (Bhatti et al. 2012). 4. Performance management is a vital aspect of an organisation that ensures meeting goals in an efficient manner. The focus of performance management is measuring the performance of the employees as well as the organisation in a broader concept (Buckingham and Goodall 2015). Capco will formulate performance management in a way that will lead to improved management control, motivated workforce, increased financial gain, etc. Organisational development will also be included in performance management of Capco through performance appraisal, performance planning and performance coaching. Capco should focus on the aspect of performance appraisal where individual performance is measured along with feedback provided to the consultants (De Waal 2013). Reward management is related to the performance management system of Capco. Capco sets rewards based on performance of consultants. Reward management of a company refers to implementation and formulation of policies and strategies that aim in rewarding people consistently, equitably and fairly according to the performance and their values within the organisation (Rose 2014). Reward management of Capco includes controlling and analysing compensation, remuneration, incentives, monetary and non-monetary benefits for the employees. It is a part of employee motivation that can also includes non-monetary rewards such as recognition, development and training. Capco will concentrate both on extrinsic and intrinsic rewards. Conclusion and Recommendations Creativity, individuality, openness are the main characteristics of organisational culture which influence the employees of the organisation to grow their career and contribute their ideas to the business development of Capco. Capco is a consultant that has to focus on different aspects of human resource management such as rewards, performance appraisal, democratic leadership, the flat organisational structure in order to develop organisational culture as well as the development of employees associated with the company. It is recommended that Capco have to focus on different forms of rewards especially, which will improve the personal satisfaction of employees such as recognition, empowerment, trust, feedback, information, etc. References Bhatti, N., Maitlo, G.M., Shaikh, N., Hashmi, M.A. and Shaikh, F.M., 2012. The impact of autocratic and democratic leadership style on job satisfaction. International Business Research,5(2), p.192. Buckingham, M. and Goodall, A., 2015. Reinventing performance management.Harvard Business Review,93(4), pp.40-50. De Waal, A., 2013.Strategic Performance Management: A managerial and behavioral approach. Palgrave Macmillan. Diefenbach, T., 2013.Hierarchy and organisation: Toward a general theory of hierarchical social systems. Routledge. Goleman, D., Boyatzis, R. and McKee, A., 2013.Primal leadership: Unleashing the power of emotional intelligence. Harvard Business Press. Lustenberger, F., 2014. Organizational hierarchy and how to maintain flexibility.IEEE Engineering Management Review,42(2), pp.10-11. Nrman, P., Johnson, P. and Gingnell, L., 2016. Using enterprise architecture to analyse how organisational structure impact motivation and learning. Enterprise Information Systems,10(5), pp.523-562. Rose, M., 2014.Reward management(Vol. 5). Kogan Page Publishers. Smith, A., Meade, M., Wolf, D. and Song, J., 2013. The CSFs, quality governance, BPR performance and gaining competitive advantage.International Journal of Business and Management,8(24), p.48. Teles, F., 2015. The distinctiveness of democratic political leadership. Political Studies Review,13(1), pp.22-36. Wallin, L., Pousette, A. and Dellve, L., 2014. Span of control and the significance for public sector managers job demands: A multilevel study. Economic and Industrial Democracy,35(3), pp.455-481. Wong, C.A., Elliottà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Miller, P., Laschinger, H., Cuddihy, M., Meyer, R.M., Keatings, M., Burnett, C. and Szudy, N., 2015. Examining the relationships between span of control and manager job and unit performance outcomes. Journal of nursing management,23(2), pp.156-168.

Slaughterhouse Five Essay Research Paper This first free essay sample

Slaughterhouse Five Essay, Research Paper This first chapter, a foreword, is repetitive on the fact that the book is based on existent events. Vonnegut, like our storyteller, is a veteran of World War II, a former captive of war, and a informant to a great slaughter, and that fact lends a certain authorization to what follows. Vonnegut portions with us his digesting inability to render in composing the horror of Dresden. There is nil intelligent to state about a slaughter, yet he feels the demand to state something. The book unabashedly charts the writer # 8217 ; s battle to happen a manner to compose about what he saw in a manner that neither belittles nor glorifies it. This battle we keep in the dorsum of our heads as we proceed to read of Billy Pilgrim # 8217 ; s life. The writer besides irrevocably creates himself as a character in the narrative. It is Kurt Vonnegut, the author, the former POW, who speaks of the many times he has tried and failed to compose this book. We will write a custom essay sample on Slaughterhouse Five Essay Research Paper This first or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It is Kurt Vonnegut, excessively, who utters the first # 8220 ; So it goes # 8221 ; after associating that the female parent of his cab driver during his visit to Dresden in 1967 was incinerated in the Dresden onslaught. â€Å"So it goes† is repeated after every study of every decease. It becomes a mantra of surrender, of credence, of a supremely Tralfamadorian doctrine ( something we will be introduced to subsequently ) . But because the phrase is foremost uttered by Vonnegut composing as Vonnegut, each â€Å"So it goes† seems to come straight from the writer and from the universe outside the fiction of the text. Chapter One besides hints that clip will be an of import portion of the fiction to follow. The writer was traveling about and about in circles seeking to make a additive narrative. He felt like he was stuck inside a kids # 8217 ; s vocal that continued indefinitely, its last line maddeningly functioning every bit besides as its first. Merely when he begins to believe about inactive clip, about returning infinitely to the events of one # 8217 ; s life, about minutes bing for infinity in no peculiar order, is he able to interrupt through 20 old ages of defeat and write Slaughterhouse Five.

We Dont See Things As They Are; We See Them As We Are

We Dont See Things As They Are; We See Them As We Are Introduction People will seldom experience absolute truth. What is perceived and heard is the basis for a conclusion that is made. The act of seeing and hearing gives the experience required to make a final decision. For instance, the magician as an entertainer deliberately focuses the acts on the audience perception. The audience way of perceiving the acts suggest the occurrence as impossible and thus the ability to have the magic acts. (82)Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on We Dont See Things As They Are; We See Them As We Are specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The act of perceiving things as we are instead of as they are is observable in our daily lives for instance if control over one issue is overtaken by another urgent one then the perception is from the mind or thoughts. Considering the scenario where a man fails to control his children in the public until they become annoyance to others may be acting so because o f other thoughts that may be disturbing the mind such as illness or death of the wife, or job related issues. The people who the children annoy would chaotically confront this person because as per their thoughts, he must be ignorant to a point of not controlling the children. They are not in a position to see the issues as they are because their perception only focuses on the children. At the workplace, the same perception of things as we are other than as they are is noticeable. People make assumptions about state of affairs of fellow workmates basing them on past experiences which have no relationship or are not relevant to the present undertakings or situation. The expectations are always different when the assumptions were based on the past wrong premises are used. (Warren and Warren, 41) On the example of the workplace, majority of the employees would pick the salary, allowances, bonuses and benefits are more important factors for a job as opposed to interest, decision making, training, feedback or respect. In the same work setting, if managers are asked what the motivators to their work would be, most of them would choose to first rank the money items such as interest, decision making, benefits, perquisites and respect. This is a clear indication that they lack appreciation of the workforce. What they will be undertaking in the firms would be wrong because they have attitude created by the environment. This makes them not to understand the needs of the workforce but think as per believes that might be there. They ought to understand or be made to that the great divide between their thinking criteria and the workforce is output demand. The manager’s decision is erroneous based on demand from the workforce. If a manager is able to understand that this difference exists, then it is possible to have a manager continue the managerial tasks without contradicting the organizational needs. Based on decisions making, the decisions concerning the company o ught to be supportive to the support staff thus the manager must inquire for their thoughts over the importance.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More These methods of inquiry criteria enables the managers to practically fan-out the workforce real needs and by asking them, the manager promote rapport and group participation over decision-making procedures and this means that they are able to take ownership of the organization. The simplest perceptions are a basis for some assumptions, which are out of sight. According to Warren and Warren (41), the questions one should ask are whether the mind natures the world in accordance with requests of knowledge, if culture limits insight or understanding and whether human beings experience comparable realities. In the world of scientist, they use knowledge to come-up with evidence for approval and disapproval of theories. It is the need to understand that drives the breakthroughs. The already acquired knowledge brings-out supportive objective truth. The scientist understanding is the basis for discoveries in the world today. They utilize it to bring out objective truth for the societal benefit. Existence of a basis for an argument is a stepping-stone for the scientist to claim correctness and thus the ability to support it as a scientific fact that is independent of human thought or feelings. This applies even when the emotions and perceptions dominate the argument. Knowledge is the control to reality. The mind can only comprehend what one exposes to it when viewing something that is explicable and this is an indication that human mind seeks experience to solve issues. Ways of knowing There are innumerable paradigms of perception, used in understanding reality. People often think that their chosen opinion is right but there are many shortcomings or contradictions even over the most treasured explanations. This raises the question over preference of choice. Arguably, the choice depends on the various methods of knowing. The philosophy is concern with the abstract mind, which helps in the way of thinking about and understanding the natural history of reality as opposed to jumping into conclusions. Rationalism calls for one to reject realities that lack immediate evidence. The emotion way of knowing is concern with psychophysical techniques and language calls for a level of wisdom and understanding. (Allan and Evans, 165) Some of the life assumptions that premise articulation and exploration of cultural, value and processes include the facts that personal values create identity and informs why or how things are the way they are, determines experiences of the world and influences the fundamental professional choices and practices. The world constructs the personal values and the culture in which people operate affects personal identity or these values.Advertising We will write a custom essa y sample on We Dont See Things As They Are; We See Them As We Are specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Sometimes the culture compromises cultural personal values. Tension, stress and conflict can arise when the dominant paradigm such as personal values are challenged. Other than considering it as a way of acquiring communicative means, acquisition of language entails use of senses, personal reasoning and feelings. â€Å"How religion affects peoples understanding of things† Considering a workgroup made of members who share common goals and personal values as the drive for attending to clients, some of the similarities ought to employ for catering of the differences. Such a team should have the client centred practice where the focus is the clients who are treated as experts or determinants for the future of the group. The belief on this setup is that people choose growth and the clients should have the freedom to understand their own situa tion and determine their future. This is enforcement of client independence where the service group only assists in decision-making. Some of the common personal values the team may have include equity. This calls for a common personal value that allows equitable treatment of clients accessing support. The value of equity is achievable through quality education. Education helps one to become informed, understand opportunities, choices or responsibilities. Secondly, there is need for provision of information. To promote equity for such a workgroup people ought to be well-up about participating in the decision-making procedures. Requirements for promoting culturally constructed service delivery unit include accountability or support. In line with Allan and Evans, (152) common values should not compromise relevance and legitimacy of members of the group. The values need to be explicitly understood when people from diverse cultural groups are interacting or working as a unit. Such team m embers would face great challenges concerning how to react in a culturally responsive manner and still maintain truthfulness over personal values. The field of human service is full of tension brought about by cultural differences and believes. Expectation is for members to maintain similarity of services but at the same time, there should be enough flexibility to cater for individual differences and needs.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Conclusion The main issue of concern is that people tend to see similar things but perceive them in different ways due to the differences in unique aspects of life such as understanding or the way used to know and interpret the outcome. The personal unique ways of perception to life and different knowledge are the factors that bring about the differences in understanding. Some of the factors may also include the life experiences, cultural differences, gender, religion and personality. The experience is a huge contributor to decision making. Bad experience makes someone avoid repeating the act or task while good ones catalyze decision-making procedures. Different personally give different perceptions. The gender differences affect emotions thus making people to react and make decisions based on their emotions. Religious and cultural values effect the way people react by catalyzing believes or devout teachings. These aspects would make us conclude that seeing things the way we are oth er than the way they are depends on the way our practices are, how personal values shape them and the amount of pressure between the values and our efforts in enlightening response. Allan, George and Evans, Malcolm D. A different three Rs for education: reason, Relationally. Amsterdam/New York, NY: Rodopi, 2006, VII, 192 pp. Danesi, Marcel. Of cigarettes, high heels, and other interesting things: an Introduction to semiotics Semaphores and signs. New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan, 1999 Warren, Rick and Warren, Richard. The purpose-driven life: what am I Here for? Issue 1 of Purpose Driven Life Series Volume 1 of Purpose Driven(r) Life the Purpose Driven(r) Life. Zondervan, 2002

LLI Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

LLI - Research Paper Example One of my major strengths lies on my ability to innovate. Innovation is a very important skill that an individual must have. This is because an innovative person will have the capability to come up with products and services which can satisfy the needs and requirements of a customer. From the score card, I was able to gather a score of more than number 6 (NCHL, 2010). From the performance evaluation matrix, this indicates that I am competent and very capable when it comes to issues dealing with innovation. My other strength lies on my capability to gather information concerning the various health care needs of customers. Research skills are a very important element that a health care individual must possess. This is because information collected can help an individual to make good decisions that are of benefit to himself, the customer and the organization that he or she works for (Jarvis, 2004). From the performance evaluation matrix, my information gathering skills lies on an average of 7.8 (NCHL, 2010). This proves that ability to gather information is one of my major strengths. A skill that goes hand in hand with information gathering is ability to collaborate with other stakeholders in the health and medical field (Jarvis, 2004). Through collaboration, I am able to acquire knowledge that was not within my possession. I can also use this type of knowledge to advance my career, and improve on the quality of services that I give to my customers. From the lifelong evaluation score card, I managed to garner a score of between numbers 7 to 9 (NCHL, 2010). This score card denotes that I have excellent collaborative skills, and it is one of my strengths. It is within my belief that collaboration does not only entail gathering information, but also sharing of resources for purposes of achieving a common good. In as much as I have these stronger points, I also have numerous weaknesses. I am unable to

English - Thesis Statement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

English - Thesis Statement - Essay Example Of course, like any other human construct, online education has its weaknesses. However, merely citing the weaknesses of this alternative module as a way of forestalling its growth is to fail to grasp the very essence, purpose of education, IT technological development and globalization. The same approach also reeks of the absence of pragmatism since pragmatism may help to practically integrate desirable elements outside online learning modules. Body There are many who propose the disbandment of distance learning merely because of its alleged shortcomings. However, this approach is not only akin to throwing out the baby with the bathwater, but also fails to grasp the main purpose of distance learning, as shall be seen forthwith. First, it will be important to absolve high school and elementary level of education from the use of distance learning. This is mainly because elementary and high school going students are still too young to benefit from distance learning. The nature of dista nce learning on the other hand accords the subscriber a laissez faire condition in terms of time allocation, concentration and the degree of input. The corollary to this is that distance learning heavily relies on self-discipline on the side of the student. It is highly uncertain that high school students will have the degree of self-control to consistently steer clear of the allure of online social networks for instance. Likewise, it is very unlikely that high school students and elementary school goers have a strong grasp on foundational knowledge necessary for independently tolerating and grasping extensive and more complex distance learning discourse. The crux of the matter herein is that with concepts being taught without an actual instructor to give a blow-by- blow account or illustration of a concept, high school and elementary learners are likely to be left more confused than enlightened. On the other hand, students in tertiary level of learning are more intellectually matur e, disciplined and self-accountable. The intellectual maturity of this group is one that is readily manifested by the qualification for college or university entry. Self-discipline is high in this group, when compared to high school and elementary students. The degree of self-accountability among learners in tertiary level of education is underscored by this group being self-reliant. For instance, this group is the most economically responsible. In the same vein, the failure to concentrate in education is bound to bear directly on the group’s economic success, career or the prospects of getting or securing a decent job. Therefore, it is better and more meaningful to engage adults in tertiary level of learning. Secondly, in order to make ameliorations on distance learning, regulating operations of universities and colleges must be taken seriously. The gravity of the foregoing is that community colleges that wish to offer distance learning should be restricted to the issuance o f technical and trade certifications. All degree-issuing learning institutions that operate through distance learning must have a charter that belongs to a physical university, if they must issue these degrees. The gravity of this proposal is that no distance or online learning university operates on its own. The academic and nonacademic prerequisites that are to be used for admission must be uniform. The cutoff points that are being used to admit pupils into colleges or universities must also be applicable in distance

Assess the Changing Politics of Environmentalism in Chinese Civil Essay - 1

Assess the Changing Politics of Environmentalism in Chinese Civil Society - Essay Example Thus, in the hopes of assessing the changing politics of environmentalism in the Chinese civic culture, this essay briefly narrates the history of environmentalism in the country and how it changed overtime. In addition, the essay presents examples of online environmental initiatives, their hard line activities, and the corresponding impact of these internet-facilitated activities on civil society. The Chinese people have once more proven to the world their innovative prowess with the onslaught of online green social movements. Rapid development in technology has assisted the wake of environmentalism among the Chinese. â€Å"Environmental activism in China critically diverges from the popular image of social movements as ‘masses of people taking to the streets and erecting barricades’ (Peter ho and Edmonds 216). The country has wakened up to the alarming needs to protect its environment as a measure to prevent possible calamities and widespread communicable diseases with a view to minimize the operation costs in the administration of the country. In the past, Mao introduced a revolutionary industrialization program in which he insisted falling trees and leveling the surface of the land in order to support the growth of industry in China. The depletion of environmental balance in the country was constituted mainly by Mao’s policies as per the references of many a historian in the world. For instance, the agricultural policies like ‘close plating of seedlings, deep planting, the double- blade plow, peculiar fertilization techniques’ were of negative impacts on the environment (Shapiro 76). In addition, Mao’s political line was rather utopian as he considered nature his most prolific enemy to be conquered. He associated a ‘mass culture’ in China with which he formulated his policies and executed the destruction of forests. It has to be observed that

The Causes Of The Revolutions History Essay

The Causes Of The Revolutions History Essay Described as the year of the avalanche, the events of 1989 proved to be some of the most surprising and cataclysmic of the twentieth century. In early 1989, few would have dared to predict the unprecedented events which were to occur. In the space of a matter of months, the communist regimes across the Eastern Bloc began to crumble as the Soviet grip on the states lessened. However, the fact that the communist regimes in Poland, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania all fell with such quick succession can lead to the misconception that the revolutions shared the same causes. However, the conventional tendency to assess the causes of the fall of communism collectively is particularly unhelpful; this essay will argue that, despite sharing the same fundamental long-term causes, the salience of these causes, as well as a number of other short term factors, did in fact vary. In making this assertion, the essay will adopt a thematic approach, assessing a range of fact ors which contributed to the events of 1989. Whilst acknowledging that everything was interconnected, each factor will be evaluated with regard to the six East European countries previously mentioned.  [2]  Thus, economic failure, regime problems, outside influences and popular protest will all be considered. It is important to note that the factors which caused the revolutions across Eastern Europe can be divided into both long and short term factors. Crucially, economic stagnation and underdevelopment proved to be central to the revolutions which occurred Eastern Europe. After all, as noted by Brown, economic failure stimulated and consolidated societal opposition in most Eastern European countries.  [3]  This view is supported by Chirot who asserts that economic stagnation and crisis was the most visible reason for the collapse of communism.  [4]  However, it is at this point that it is necessary to distinguish between the various Eastern European countries. Chirot describes how, although not impoverished on the scale of nations, such as Ethiopia, Romania and Poland were headed in that direction, while countries, such as Czechoslovakia, Hungary and East Germany were economically failing when compared to countries in Western Europe.  [5]  However, all of the six nations stru ggled with economic inefficiency and production inadequacies and were, thus, unable to act as competitive rivals to the capitalist economies of Western Europe. Economic stagnation affected the population significantly as there was a shortage of consumer goods, while the commitment to full employment and low food prices further damaged the economies of Eastern Europe.  [6]   However, the failing economy in these countries was arguably linked to regime problems; economic decisions were taken with primary consideration for the maintenance of party rule and the current system, not what was best for the economy. As a result, decisions were largely based on political will, rather than economic necessity.  [7]  Thus, a strong case can be made to suggest that inherent problems with the regimes hindered economic progress. For instance, rather than using foreign loans to invest in new technology or improvements to infrastructure, the communist regimes in Poland and Hungary instead used foreign loans to purchase consumer goods to make people happy, [an attempt to] shore up the crumbling legitimacy of [their] regimes.  [8]  As a result, it is clear that that the economic problems which gripped Eastern Europe arguably exacerbated the problems faced by the communist regimes regarding their fundamental à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ illegitimacy.  [9]  Overall, it is cle ar that the countries of Eastern Europe all experienced varying degrees of economic difficulties and, thus, the economy acted as a contributing factor to the revolutions. However, the key word here is varying. The most severe economic problems were experienced in Bulgaria, Romania and Poland, while the state of the economy was arguably a less significant cause of the revolutions in East Germany and Czechoslovakia as they were more prosperous than their communist neighbours. Furthermore, arguably one of the most crucial long term factors which contributed to the events of 1989 were regime problems and failings. Fundamentally, a strong case can be made to support the assertion that the communist regimes lacked legitimacy and it was this which ultimately rendered revolution a certainty rather than a possibility.  [10]  Crucially, the communist regimes made a fatal error in confusing authority and legitimacy. It was the misguided belief that authority delivered legitimacy which proved ultimately disastrous.  [11]  After over four decades of communist rule, by 1989, citizens arguably began to realise that, not only did the regimes lack legitimacy, but that the authority which they had previously exerted was open to challenge. Thus, it is evident that the illegitimacy of the communist regimes in all of the Eastern European countries directly contributed to the rise in opposition towards communist rule. Moreover, a strong case can be made to support the assertion that this was underpinned by an increasing realisation that the communist party could no longer use force to maintain control. After all, what little legitimacy the regimes initially had gradually eroded over time; the years of repression, terror and misery of life à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ created a general malaise.  [12]  For instance, in East Germany, Honecker utilised repression as a tool for maintaining control; once repressive tactics had been abandoned, however, the system collapsed in a few weeks.  [13]  Therefore, this highlights how, once fear had been removed, the illegitimacy of the regimes were exposed and their future was thus limited. Significantly, however, it is possible to assert that attempts to reform and negotiate with the opposition, as occurred in Poland throughout 1989, were an attempt at re-legitimising the communist regimes in order to preserve their power. After all, there was notable success for Ja ruzelski in Poland following the total amnesty he announced in the mid-1980s. Describing the effect of this, Brown asserts that, while the regime gained ground, the opposition seemed to be in disarray.  [14]   In addition, the communist regimes across Eastern Europe faced even greater problems than their illegitimacy. Notably, communist leaders had to find a balance between what was best for their country as well as avoiding disapproval from the Soviet Union. However, this was arguably extremely different; each Soviet leader pursued different policies towards Eastern Europe, with significant contrast between the approach adopted by leaders, such as Khrushchev and Brezhnev, and leaders, such as Gorbachev, for example.  [15]  This highlights the interdependence of the factors which combined to cause the revolutions in 1989; in this sense, regime problems were also dependent upon outside influences, namely the role of the Soviet Union. What is more, elderly leaders, who were increasingly out of touch with the needs of their people, also proved problematic.  [16]  This was arguably the case for Ceausescu, the communist leader of Romania. At the time of his fall from power, Ceausescu wa s 71 years-old and had been in office for 22 years.  [17]  Thus, a logical case can be made to draw links between his age and length of tenure and his uncompromising response to opposition and inability to sense the mood of the country, resulting in a rebellion which cost him his life.  [18]  Overall, a strong case can be made to support the assertion that regime problems and failings played a key role in all of the revolutions across Eastern Europe. However, whilst all of the European states shared this fundamental long term cause of unrest, the salience of the short term factors varied greatly between countries. What is more, another factor which arguably contributed to the revolutions of 1989 can be collectively referred to as outside factors. This is a reference to the range of short term factors which were outside the control of the communist regimes, including geographical issues, the role of Gorbachev, the significance of the domino effect and also the increased awareness of life in the West. In terms of geography, it is important to consider the location of the East European countries as a strong case can be made to suggest that this had a bearing on the events of 1989. For instance, East Germany was a front-line state due to its position bordering the capitalist West Germany.  [19]  Moreover, the population was also more western, with many citizens being able to remember a time when Germany was still unified. Thus, East Germany had a stronger permeation of Western culture than many of the other countries in Eastern Europe.  [20]  What is more, as the European continent has few natural borders, it is clear that events occurring in one country are likely to have a knock-on effect in neighbouring countries. For instance, following the opening of the Hungarian border with Austria, East Germany was severely affected; the opening of the border triggered an emigration crisis, with hundreds of thousands of East Germans attempting to escape due to their demoralisation and disgust with the regime.  [21]  This proved highly damaging for the East German regime; the exposure of the illegitimacy of the regime proved fatal. Thus, this highlights not only the importance of the increased awareness of life in the West, but also the significant role played by geography in terms of exposure to images of both life in the West as well as western media. However, these factors are clearly more important in explaining the causes of the revolutions in those countries which were geographically close to West Europe than those which were closer to the Soviet Union. Moreover, the role of the domino effect was arguably crucial, acting as a catalyst and thus explaining the spread of the revolution. Whilst the effect that images from the West had on frontline states was significant, a convincing case can be made to suggest that it was in fact images of life in the Soviet Union and, later, in neighbouring states which proved to be the ultimate short-term cause of the revolutions across Eastern Europe. The effect of such images arguably served to undermine the regimes in the eyes of the dissenting minority and, crucially, also the loyal minority.  [22]  The notion that the revolutions were in some way contagious is highly significant.  [23]  After all, the fall of communism in Poland paved the way for the overthrow of the communist regimes in Hungary, East Germany, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia and, finally, Romania. Whilst the argument that the revolutions were contagious is somewhat oversimplifying the intricacies and distinctiveness of the circ umstances which occurred in each of the states, it is still a useful analysis as it emphasises the importance of the spread of ideas and confidence.  [24]  For instance, the successful non-violent overthrow of the communist regime in Poland arguably led to a growth of confidence throughout the Eastern Bloc as a precedent had effectively been established. The effect of such newfound confidence cannot be overestimated, with the contemporary example of the Arab Spring bearing similarities with events in Eastern Europe, for example. Thus, overall, it is clear that the domino effect played a crucial role in all of the countries following the precedent which was established in Poland. However, it is important not to overstate the role of the domino effect; had there not been numerous problems and rising discontent in the states, the revolutions would undoubtedly have been seen as isolated rather than contagious. Furthermore, an additional outside factor which arguably played a key role in the events of 1989 was the attitude and policies pursued by the Soviet leader, Gorbachev. In fact, Brown goes as far as asserting that the revolutions could not have happened without Gorbachev.  [25]  Gorbachevs policy of lessening the Soviet grip on the Eastern Bloc and effectively removing the Soviet rod which had previously reinforced the communist regimes of Eastern Europe arguably had a galvanising effect.  [26]  Not only did it bring together opposition groups and politically-minded youths, but, in Poland and Hungary in particular, it also served to stimulate reformers within the regimes themselves.  [27]  Gorbachevs policy of non-intervention arguably exposed the illegitimacy of the regimes as even their authority was now in question. This was particularly the case in countries, such as Czechoslovakia, where the communist regime did not wish to reform as, if Gorbachev was seen to be corre ct, it effectively validated the attempted rebellion in 1968. Moreover, a further result of Gorbachevs policy was that it increased the evaporation of fear amongst the population, thus explaining the rise in the number and vociferousness of public protest and opposition movements.  [28]  However, whilst Gorbachevs policy had a direct effect on those countries, such as Czechoslovakia and East Germany which had close ties to the Soviet Union, countries, such as Romania were not affected as much due to Romanias remoteness from the Soviet Union. However, despite clear variations in the importance of the role of Gorbachev in contributing to the revolutions, a convincing case can be made to support the assertion that, overall, Gorbachev played a key role. After all, previous attempts at rebellion in Hungary in 1956 and Czechoslovakia in 1968, for example, had been crushed by the Soviet Union. With this threat removed, surely it was only a matter of time before the unpopular regimes fa ced a challenge. Finally, popular protest and organised opposition was arguably the short term catalyst for the events of 1989. The long term factors previously discussed, including regime problems, economic failure and outside influences all combined, thus leading to an increase in opposition. However, despite the significance of popular protest, it is important not to overstate how widespread such protest was; regimes were undermined by the active opposition of a minority, not by the masses.  [29]  For instance, demonstrations were by no means universal, mainly attracting the younger generation who were more akin to western culture and also had less to lose than older generations. Crucially, the role played by protest and organised opposition varies between countries. In Poland, for example, organised opposition was strong in the form of the Solidarity Movement. Moreover, whilst signs of protest in Hungary initially suggest that there was visible opposition to the regime, most of the protests w hich occurred were focussed on non-regime issues, such as ecological problems, for instance.  [30]  In contrast to Poland, Chirot notes how there was little organised opposition in Czechoslovakia and Bulgaria except for seemingly isolated intellectuals [who] had no followers.  [31]  What is more, in East Germany there was only a small peace movement, but the regime had never been directly threatened, while in Romania, although there had been a riot in Brasov in 1987, intellectual protest was muted.  [32]  Thus, it is clear that popular protest played a more crucial role in contributing towards the revolutions in countries where the regimes refused to initiate reform or negotiate with opposition. Overall, it is clear that the revolutions in the countries of Eastern Europe all shared the same fundamental causes. What differed, however, was the significance of each factor, thus dispelling the conventional wisdom that a combination of popular protest and the domino effect provides for a definitive understanding of the causes of the revolutions. However, although this essay has offered a discussion of both the common causes of the revolutions as well as national differentiation, it is also important to question why 1989 was the year in which these revolutions took place. Arguably, 1989 proved to be the tipping point following the accumulation of decades of rot in the foundations of the communist system.  [33]  Ultimately, however, Gorbachev proved to be the catalyst, render[ing] the revolutions in Eastern Europe both inevitable and successful.  [34]  After all, the tinder was already there but it needed Gorbachev to light it.  [35]  

An Economic Approach To Surfing :: essays research papers fc

An Economic Approach to Surfing   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The following represents a specified depiction of a typical day of surfing for me, in a manner described using economic terminology. Although there are many definitions of surfing these days, including surfing the internet, surfing departments stores, magazine surfing, etc., we will focus on the meaning of surfing as it was originally intended, defined as â€Å"The water sport of riding the surf into shore† (Webster’s New World Dictionary, p.739) Using this, I will recount a surf trip a friend and I made to the beach a few years ago, beginning and ending at my home in Valley Center California. The Events I experienced will be depicted using primarily economic concepts. What would seem like ordinary events will be portrayed using an economic microscope of interpretation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is five A.M. on a scorching Saturday morning in the summer of 1998, and I am awakened by the unpleasant sound of my alarm clock. Now you may be wondering why I am crazy enough to wake up this early on a Saturday, but for the dedicated surfer it is a necessity that one must take in order to maximize utility. Utility is defined as â€Å"A measure of the satisfaction, happiness, or benefit that results from the consumption of a good† (Arnold, p. 849). The good in this case being surfing, and in order for me to be fully satisfied, receive happiness, and benefit optimally from this good, I must awake early. By awaking at five A.M., I can prepare for surfing without other members of my family inhibiting me because they will all be asleep. Everything is quiet and peaceful, and this factor alone allows me to start my day in a sort of positive and spiritual mode.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The roads at this time in the morning are virtually empty, which enable me to arrive at the beach in approximately 20 minutes as opposed to 35 minutes during regular hours. The main concept explaining this circumstance has to do with supply and demand. At five A.M. the amount of traffic in relation to spaces available on streets and freeways is relatively small. At eight A.M. however, the amount of traffic in relation to spaces available on streets and freeways is relatively large, often causing extremely congested circumstances. Granted, my surf trip is on a Saturday, and most people have the weekend off from work, but the same economic concept applies on the weekend as it does during the week, but not as drastically.

Romeo and Juliet – Guilty Deaths

Deaths The Shakespearian play Romeo and Juliet is a well known story about star-crossed lovers whose fates end in tragedy. The deaths of these two lovers can be held responsible on two main characters, Friar Lawrence and the Nurse yet out of the two, who is more liable? Friar Lawrence is a priest who marries the two lovers, gives Juliet a fake potion to prevent her from marrying Paris, fails to send the letter to Romeo telling him about his plan and selfishly runs away from Juliet in fear that he would get into trouble for his involvement.The Nurse is Juliet’s lifelong caregiver who helps Juliet and her lover get married, becomes their â€Å"messenger† and later on in the play, changes her mind on who Juliet should be with. The physical actions and guidance of both the Friar and Nurse demonstrate their liability for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. Although, it is undeniable that Friar Lawrence is more to blame than the Nurse on the deaths of Romeo and Juliet through his guidance, advice and physical actions throughout the play.In the play, Romeo and Juliet are very young and constantly seek advice and guidance of people older and supposedly wiser than them, like Friar Lawrence and the Nurse. What is unclear to them is that the advice and guidance that they receive comes with many consequences, and for Romeo and Juliet, it is death. Throughout the course of the Shakespearian play, Friar Lawrence gives the couple a lot of advice and guidance. To avoid marrying Paris, he tells Juliet to pretend to be dead with the help of a special potion he made.As part of the plan, he was supposed to inform Romeo of this arrangement yet he fails which later costs him his own life along with Juliet’s. â€Å"Come I’ll dispose of thee/ Among a sisterhood of holy nuns/ Stay not to question, for the watch is coming/ Come, go good Juliet. I dare no longer stay/† (Shakespeare 5. 3 155) demonstrates how selfish he was as he left the Capulet tomb and le t Juliet kill herself instead of attempting to help her. By letting her die alongside Romeo, he is more responsible for their deaths. The second character that holds responsibility for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet through her advice to Juliet is the Nurse.Throughout, the Nurse seems to admire Romeo. She praises him for his love for Juliet and seems to be fond of their marital union. After Atabani 2 a heated discussion between Lady Capulet, Capulet and Juliet about whether or not she should marry Paris, she changes her mind about Romeo and their marriage. She believes that because he is exiled from Verona that he should be dead to Juliet. Romeo is banished, and all the world to nothing. That he dares ne'er come back to challenge you. Or, if he do, it needs must be by stealth. Then, since the case so stands as now it doth.I think it best you married with the county. Oh, he’s a lovely gentleman. Romeo’s a dishclout to him. An eagle, madam, Hath not so green, so quick, s o fair an eye As Paris hath. Beshrew my very heart. I think you are happy in this second match. For it excels your first. Or if it did not. Your first is dead, or ’twere as good he were. As living here and you no use of him (3. 5 88) All through the play, it is clear that the Nurse is a very mother like character to Juliet therefore when she gave Juliet advice on who to marry, the Nurse was attempting to advocate bigamy.This upsets Juliet and because of the advice the Nurse gives her, she goes to Friar Lawrence in seek of a remedy for her aching heart. Although both the Nurse and Friar Lawrence may have seemed to have good intentions in giving advice to Romeo and Juliet about their star-crossed love, the Friar’s words of advice makes him more accountable for their deaths. In Romeo and Juliet, the fulfillment of certain actions leads to the play's tragic ending, death. In the play Friar Lawrence is one of the characters whom commits physical acts that makes him responsi ble for the deaths of the lovers.Firstly, he marries the two lovers in a secret ceremony with only the Nurse attending. By performing their marriage, he defies their fates and bonds them as star-crossed lovers, which leads to their devastating deaths. After, the Friar’s realization of their forbidden love he states â€Å"In one respect I’ll thy assistant be/ For this alliance may so happy prove/ To turn your households rancor to pure love† (2. 3 46). He marries them against Atabani 3their families in hopes that he may end the feud that divides the Capulets and the Montagues.By creating a marital union between the Juliet and Romeo, the Friar creates more hatred between the families that builds up to the conclusion. By marrying them, the Friar makes himself more accountable for the suicides of Romeo and Juliet. The second character who is physically liable for the deaths of the star – crossed lovers is the Nurse. After the Prince exiles Romeo to Mantua for murdering Tybalt, the Nurse plays a â€Å"messenger† role, in which she continuously goes back and forth between the two lovers. She helps them be Atabani 3 ogether even though she knows that both the Capulets and Montagues would disapprove. The Nurse would also constantly bring news from Romeo to Juliet about their blooming love and later, their marriage. Now, afore God, I am so vexed that every part about me quivers. Scurvy knave! Pray you, sir, a word And as I told you my young lady bid me inquire you out. What she bade me say, I will keep to myself. But first let me tell ye, if ye should lead her into a fool’s paradise as they say, it were a very gross kind of behavior, as they say.For the gentlewoman is young, and therefore, if you should deal double with her, truly it were an ill thing to be offered to any gentlewoman and very weak dealing (2. 4 53) are the words of The Nurse while she is explaining to Romeo about her role as a messenger between both Juliet and R omeo. If the Nurse had considered what would happen to this couple, she may not have wanted to become their messenger and risk their lives like she did. As a result of both the Friar and the Nurse’s involvement physically they can both be held accountable for the deaths of the lovers, yet it is evident that Friar Lawrence can be considered more responsible.Through his guidance, advice and physical actions throughout the play, it is undeniable that Friar Lawrence is more to blame than the Nurse on the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. The Shakespearian play Romeo and Juliet written in 1590 explores many different themes including fate, love and death. The deaths of the protagonists Romeo and Juliet can be blamed on the physical actions, guidance and advice of both the Friar and Nurse. This later demonstrates who is more responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet.The Nurse’s actions, advice and assistance includes helping the lovers get their marriage, becoming their †Å"messenger† and later on in the play and changing her overall idea about the marriage between Juliet and Romeo. The actions, guidance and advice that Friar Lawrence administrates to both Romeo and Juliet include marrying the two lovers, giving Juliet the potion, failing to send the letter to Romeo in time and selfishly running away from Juliet in fear that he would get into trouble for his involvement make him more responsible than the Nurse.

Emily and Calixtas Destructive behavior

Emily and Calixtas Destructive behavior Free Online Research Papers Emily Grierson is an unstable women who becomes isolated after the death of her father. Her father was the only love she ever experienced, only because her father did not allow her to experience the joys of doing things on her own nor the feelings of love and friendship. She lives a life void of love and affection. During this time Emily falls in love with Homer Barron. As she experiences love for the first time in her life, Miss Grierson’s relationship with homer becomes ill and short lived. Emily Grierson’s relationship with Homer Barron is a very unhealthy, destructive relationship. Homer is Emily’s first love and she wants to marry him but soon realizes he does not want to marry her. She is unable to cope with losing another man in her life and decides to take fate into her own hands. Emily decides to poison homer with arsenic, after doing so she keeps his body and continues to act as if he is still alive. Emily continues to sleep next to homer every night as indicated by the grey hairs found on the pillow next to homer’s remains. Emily’s perception of reality is clearly distorted when it comes to men as is her ability to allow change to occur in her life. Calixta is a mother, a wife and homemaker. She is beautiful with blue eyes and yellow hair an all around idea of a perfect women. Calixta sews, cooks, and she looks after the well being of her family quite well. She’s been married to Bobinot for five years and seems very happy with the life she lives. She has an affair with a man named Alcee Laballiere, this relationship is not as destructive as Emily’s because Calixta is not in love with Alcee and is already married. The affair is short lived, only occurring once and is unknown to everyone else. It was one night and one mistake neither was in love or emotionally involved as Emily was with Homer. There are many differences between Emily and Calixta. Differences between these two women include their background and lifestyle, Emily Grierson grew up with only the love of her father while Calaxta was free to date and love whom ever she desired. Also Emily does not commit adultery as Calaxta does. Emily does not have children to take care of and does not keep up well with herself or the house in which she lives. Calixta on the other hand has a child and a husband and takes care of the house the cooking and sewing. The main difference between Emily and Calixta is that Emily’s relationship with Homer Barron is very destructive in that she becomes ill over him and kills him, not to mention Emily is in love with a man that does not love her back. Calixta’s relationship with Alcee is not destructive because she is not in love with him nor is he in love with her. Research Papers on Emily and Calixta's Destructive behaviorComparison: Letter from Birmingham and CritoHonest Iagos Truth through DeceptionPersonal Experience with Teen Pregnancy19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows EssayInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesAnalysis Of A Cosmetics AdvertisementThe Fifth HorsemanEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenCapital Punishment

An Ethical Review Example

An Ethical Review Example An Ethical Review – Coursework Example An Ethical Review al Affiliation Elbogen & Johnson (2009) carried out a research to determine the relationship between mental illness and violence in different settings. In order to meet the objectives of the study, the researchers used longitudinal data from a sample population in the United States of America. Some of the conditions that were considered as mental illnesses included schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression. The study utilized a sample population of 43653 people. From the data collected, it was concluded that there was no directs relationship been mental illness and violent behavior.If I were to work with the population that was used in Elbogen & Johnson (2009), I would prepare myself for the study by doing a background study on the sample population. By doing a background check, I will be able to understand the characteristics associated with the members of this particular sample group. Moreover, the background study helps in determining the various ethical iss ues which may arise in the course of the study (Kimmel, 2009). In the study conducted by Elbogen & Johnson (2009), there was no deception used since the data was collected from people who were willing take part in the study. The analysis and discussion were also done on the basis of the collected data. The use of any form of deception would have compromised the validity of the findings. If the study was to be conducted again, the participants can be protected by fully making them aware of the objectives of the research and ensuring that their responses are kept private. One major ethical issue that normally arises in the cause of a study is the privacy of the data collected. Some participants do not give valid and honest responses out of the fear that the information may end up in the wrong hands. By assuring them about their privacy, this issue can be effectively handled (Kimmel, 2009).ReferencesElbogen, E. B, Johnson, S.C. (2009). The intricate link between violence and mental dis order: results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. Arch Gen Psychiatry, 66(2), 152-161.Kimmel, A. (2009). Ethical Issues in Behavioral Research: Basic and Applied Perspectives. Malden: Blackwell Publishing.

Drawing on the literature, critically discuss the positive and Essay

Drawing on the literature, critically discuss the positive and negative factors that may directly or indirectly influence services workers job performance - Essay Example This is because; the potential buyers formulate their own perceptions regarding the organization and its service quality on grounds of its staff efficiency and service performance (Brown, et al., 2002). This research paper aims to critically analyze the positive and negative impacts of service worker’s job performance. It is highly rational to conduct this critical analysis because it aims to estimate the factors that might both directly and indirectly influence the quality of working within a service providing organization. In this era of â€Å"consumerism†, the firms aim to maximize utility of its potential buyers and hence their business revenue. However, it should be noted that customers satisfaction derived from the products or services of an organization considerably depends on the quality of services provided by the employees of the company. Thus, from the analysis and implications of this essay, managerial authorities of different companies can eradicate the pot ential problems faced by them in human resource management and hence improve the quality of their working in long run (Brown, et al., 2002). Economists treat labour resource of an organization as a type of capital. This is because a worker earns money with the help of acquired education, work experience and knowledge. Originally human capital was perceived to be a microeconomic concept but over time its implications are also linked up with the field of macroeconomics. Lucas introduced the â€Å"New Growth Theory† of economics and claimed that human capital productivity and economic growth is directly proportional to each other (Brown, et al., 2002). A rise in the efficiency level of human capital helps to augment economic surplus procured by the profit making firms within a country and finally leads to growth of its national domestic productivity level. Researchers have stated that quality of schooling, educational level of parents, before and on-the-job training significantly influences the

U.S. criminal justice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

U.S. criminal justice - Essay Example The objectives of the criminal justice system ensure safety of the society through justice for individual, personal liberty and the right to due process.All these objectives make it absolutely certain that rule of law prevail and justice is served. The 17,500 law enforcement agencies of the country are trying very hard to achieve these objectives (Hudzik, J. 2010).The extent to which the United States criminal justice system has achieved these goals. It has been successful in securing the rights of the individuals. United States of America is considered a just society all over the world because of its justice system however there are many improvements that can be made to better beef up the process of criminal justice. But at the same it is important to understand what individuals demand from the criminal justice system and how these demands are fulfilled. Goals of individuals include social justice, equality before law, protection of society and freedom for fear. All these goals safe guard the interest of the individuals. The extent to which these goals are covered by U.S. criminal justice system is difficult to say because some of these goals are of conflicting nature but at the same time we cannot dismiss the criminal justice system of the country. United States criminal justice system is doing a very good job in allowing personal liberty and the right to due process. All these goals are being achieved and one can say this because all the procedures are followed and there are less loop holes in the system. The 4th, 5th, 6th and 8th amendments secure personal rights and liberties, and protect citizens from unreasonable searches (Howard, J. 2009). There are still roam for injustices but United States criminal justice system is going in the right direction in fulfilling its goal. Prejudice is an element that cannot be ignored and that restrains the objectivity of the criminal justice system. This has been seen in the case of minorities because minorities do not g et proportional representation in courts and that affects the criminal justice system (Santiago, C. 2011). This is another way in which the goal of individual justice is not fully achieved by the criminal justice system. The goal of human dignity is sometimes not fully achieved under the criminal justice system of the country. The reason being that maximum protection prison face mistreatment and also the criminals convicted of hideous crimes like child abuse or serial killing face treatment that is not fit for human (Sociology of Criminal Justice, 2010). Human dignity is important for even the cruelest of criminals but it is hard to attain this goal given that the emotions of guards and other prison officers also come into play. This is one grey area where attention is needed. There are both conflicts and similarities between the goals of the criminal justice system and the goals of the individual. The criminal justice system cares about individuals so that no one is wrongfully conv icted. This is especially important to ensure that everyone gets a fair chance to trail and all the rights of the individuals are safeguarded. Personal liberty is one of the goals of criminal justice system that conflicts with the goal of the individual for protection of society. Society may need protection more than ever in this age of terrorism. Getting warrants from the proper authorities might take long and that can allow the terrorists to come into action and as a result valuable lives are put to risk. The security risk in United States is so much that people protested on the trial of 9/11 attacks that were being held in Newburg (Livingston, B. 2010). This shows the conflict between goals of individual and goal of criminal justice. Justice for individual is another goal criminal justice system that clashes with the idea of social justice in some ways. When a murderer is

Food Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Food Policy - Essay Example I refer to the year 1992 when the "Single European Market" (SEM, one supposes!) is due to take effect as most trade barriers within Western Europe, or at least in the Common Market, are to be dismantled. The UK government is currently investing over ten million pounds in television campaign to promote all businessmen to be ready to take benefits of these great news sales opportunities. With respect of this, all EEC countries crave to increase their exports into a static consumer market. Certainly, in some sections in the UK business industry there will be winner or looser. Confederation of British (CBI) industry, are already crying foul because to some extent they think that Western Europeans countries will try to buy the UK base corporations. If it happens, simultaneously the British mergers legislations will deter domestic companies in hope to get competitive advantages over international based organizations. This explains the fact, why so many British organizations have setup their business in the USA. But how will SEM affect the quick frozen food industry within the Common Market Maybe not nearly as much as it will some other markets partly because of the strong share of the total market held by Unilever and Nestle. Easily the largest slice of that total is Unilever's with their Birds Eye brand in the U.K., the Findus brand in Italy and Igloo just about everywhere else. Nestle, the Switzerland-based Corporation, use the Findus brand in the U.K. and in some of the other Common Market countries. Nestle use the Stouffer brand in the U.S.A. It has been proved that there is a big difference between brand name and corporate name. This is further evidenced by the variety of brand names used by the United Biscuits frozen food subsidiary, UB-Ross-Youngs, who apart from the brands Ross and Youngs use McVities and Mama Mia--and one or two others--in the U.K. Similarly another U.K.-based enterprise, Rank Hovis McDougal, use the brands Sharwoods (Indian specialties), Tiffany's (pies), Heinzel (cakes) and have now begun to use Mr. Kipling, a brand they have made renowned in the ambient cake sector, for a new variety of frozen hot puddings.' One does marvel what strategy these two major food groups will follow in preparation for the SEM. In contrast the Campbell Soup Company has given some sign as to their intention because having bought the U.K.-based Fresh bake Foods, one of the top three or four domestic frozen food companies; they have renamed themselves in Europe: Campbell's Foods. Campbell's were already using the brands Ungers in the U.K. and Groko on the Continent, but this writer imagines it is going to be Campbell's on everything from now on. At least Sara Lee and McCain's have a one brand strategy for Europe. Heinz has, more recently, entered the European QFF scene with a heavily supported launch of their Weight Watchers brand--of course they use the Ore-Ida brand on potato products in the States. Then there remains the mystery as to what the frozen food marketing future holds for the Pillsbury and Kraft companies under new managements. Pillsbury had just given up using the Fiesta brand in the U.K. to concentrate on Green Giant, and may continue to do so in Europe. Meanwhile, Kraft's new owners, the Philip Morris Group, also own General Foods but the Birds Eye brand

Shark evolution Essay Example for Free

Shark evolution Essay Sharks, commonly referred to as fish are in fact quite different from the regular bony fish. Sharks have a cartilaginous skeleton, which is does not fossilize well, but despite this sharks have left a considerable fossil record. Shark evolution is in fact one of the most successful cases of phylogenic development. The evidence of sharks dates back to over 400 million years ago, almost 200 million years before the first dinosaurs, and before the evolution of any land vertebrates, in the Ordovician period, at the start of the Palezoic era. The only fossils of the oldest sharks are the scales and teeth, the teeth being quite durable and easily mineralized. The teeth in particular reveal that the oldest sharks were quite different from their modern descendants. And even through vertebrates like dinosaurs were eliminated centuries ago, sharks continue to exist today, with almost 1100 species. Among the most primitive sharks was the Cretaceous, discovered in Texas. The Cretaceous is believed to be about 65 million years old. The earliest life on earth dates back to almost 4 billion years ago, to a group called the prokaryotes, which includes the first bacteria. The prokaryotes did not even have a defined nucleus. The oldest eukaryotes, which were more advanced, and had specialized organelles evolved about 2 billion years ago. These included the famous amoeba. But the first multicelluar life form dates back to about 600 million years ago, to the â€Å"Edicarian assemblage† in Australia. Jawless fishes are believed to be the first vertebrates to have evolved, and date back to about 500 million years ago. Sharks then appeared about 450 million years ago. But even though paleontologists have considerable evidence, shark evolution posed many problems because of the fossils. With time, most of the evidence was eliminated. The scales are mostly very small in size, and have many impressions of soft tissues. But despite these drawbacks, studies reveal a rich history. The oldest shark scales go back to about 455 million years ago. But since they are quite different from those in modern sharks, most paleontologists agree that they are not from sharks. The first acknowledged fossil dates back to 420 million years ago in Siberia. These have been classified under the genus of Elegestolepis. Others, discovered from Mongolia have been classified in the genera Mongolepis and Polymerolepis. But apart for these almost classifications, little is actually known about these primitive sharks. But with the beginning of the Devonian period, shark record becomes quite varied. The first teeth of about 400 million years ago were discovered from Europe. These teeth belong to the ancient Leonodus. Leonodus had characteristic double cusped teeth. The oldest shark cranium was discovered in Australia, and dates back to about 380 million years ago, and is believed to be from a shark specie xenacanth. Earlier in fact the Leonodus and xenacanth were thought to be related because of their similar crown shaped teeth. The first partially fossilized shark shark was discovered by a geologist Gavin Young in Antarctica. But this fossil displayed an odd mix of features. Possibility exists that this too may be a xenacanth, but Young named it Antarctilamna. The Antarctilamna was 16-inches long, and was a diplodont, resembling the xenacanth. Antarctilamna’s fin though was directed dorsally. The xenacanth in contrast was exclusively a freshwater shark, and had a long fin directed rearward, just behind the cranium. But with the passage of time, sharks have endured tremendous changes of environment, and yet, have managed to survive. But like all other creatures, the species had to either adapt to the change, or end. Each time a large scale shift occurred; a number of species found the new environment incompatible and became extinct. Sharks though displayed immense diversity, and helping then expand into new habitats. â€Å"Such explosive increases in variety are termed ‘adaptive radiations[1]. ’† Over such a huge span of geologic time, sharks have has two adaptive radiations, and have survived up to five mass extinctions. Many also agree that since most shark fossils have been found either from Australia, or Antarctica, sharks may have originated in the southern hemisphere. The first radiation was in the Carboniferous period, roughly 30 million years ago. This was characterized by the flourishing of the stethacanthids. The second major radiation occurred in the Jurassic Period, about 170 million years ago. During this time both land and air was dominated by reptiles. This was the time when the hybodonts developed. Many believe that the hybodonts were the ancestors of all modern sharks, but evidence is scanty. While the hybodonts shows many obvious similarities to the modern shark, it has characteristic features not found in sharks today. One of these includes the horns behind the eyes. But now, the earliest known modern shark is believed to be the Mcmurdodus from the mid-Devonian time. The basis for this is the Mcmurdodus tooth. The tooth shows is of the same type found in modern sharks, but not in the ancient ones. But â€Å"there is a 190-million-year gap in the fossil record between the last Mcmurdodus and the first unquestionable cowshark [1]. † Even though research continues to unveil the evolution of this epic animal, a complete evolutionary record is difficult to draw. The earliest known sharks in fact were quite different from the modern counterparts. But in some respects they were very close to the modern sharks of today, having the same cartilaginous skeletons, replaceable teeth and multiple gill slits. And with time sharks have endured great geologic change, adapting to different environments, evolving to change, and have thus survived as one the most durable animals on the planet. References 1. Martin, R. Aidan. ReefQuest Centre for Shark Research. Biology of Sharks and Rays. Retrieved from (http://www. elasmo-research. org/education/evolution/evol_s_predator. htm)