Classical and post-Classical periods Essay

The Silk Roads were created when classical empires were established, and the scope of long distance trade expanded, connecting much of Eurasia. Throughout the Classical and post-Classical periods, the Silk Roads provided a way for not only goods to be introduced to new lands, but also ideas, religions and technology. The Silk Roads changed drastically due to expanding empires, new technology and diseases. Although the effects and empires with which the Silk Road was connected changed continuously throughout the Classical and post-Classical period, the thing that remained constant was the trade of spices and goods to and from Asia and Europe, and the Silk Road never lost its importance to the economies of the empires. The growing empires directly affected the Silk Roads. The growth and spread of empires was a direct result of who had the most control over the routes and what ideas were being spread, for instance religion. When disease decreased much of a population, that empire would stop trade with other nations and focus on interregional trade, until their empire was back up on its feet, and then it would again join in trade on the silk roads. This constantly happened with the introduction of new diseases to empires throughout the end of the Classical period and all of the post-Classical period. One example of this was China, when diseases were brought to its shore from the ships, its population decimated and they stopped trading with vast nations for luxuries and kept the trade within its empire till its economy grew and then they continued in trade throughout the silk road. The new technology introduced to the Silk Road had the most impact on the trade patterns. Throughout the classical period not many changes in technology occurred, however during the post-Classical, you start to see many new technologies introduced to the Silk Road. Yolks, saddles and stirrups were just some of the new transportation technology developed. In the 600s B.C.E., yolks, saddles and stirrups were used to allow more goods to be carried on horse, camels and ox and allowed them to travel further distance. Saddles were first developed in Southern Arabia for transportation. Then, Stirrups first appeared in Afghanistan, created by the Kushan folk. The stirrup is a piece of equipment that extends from a saddle on both sides, and the person sitting in the saddle can put their feet into the stirrup while riding to gain better control of the animal being ridden and to be more secure on the animals back. Lastly, the yoke allowed for more than one ox to plow fields. The yoke would link the two oxen together and attach them to something heavy, like a plow or a tool used for turning the earth. Another invention, which came from China, was a compass, which pointed north, and allowed sailor to navigate more easily. They also invented better-equipped, long-lasting ships to travel greater distances for the sole purpose of acquiring goods that people at home in China so desperately desired. These boats were called junks, and allowed for the Chinese to sail great distances for the goods they desired. However, they were not alone in the making of these big ships, Indians also began to craft larger and improved boats called dhows. Another major innovation that fueled trade was the Grand Canal. Created under the authority of Sui Yangdi in the Sui Dynasty. The Chinese needed a fast and easy way to transport essential crops, such as rice, from the Yangzi River to the North. Therefore they built the Grande Canal running through North and Southern China, creating an efficient way to transport good through northern and southern China. Other than transportation technology, there was other technology introduced in the post-Classical period. The Chinese invented printing and paper, which created an even faster and easier way to spread ideas, religion, and technology throughout the Silk Roads. Although the Silk Roads had many positive features, along with the spread of ideas came the spread of disease. This occurred throughout the whole period. Unbeknownst to the traders the ships and caravans, with which they traded, brought disease along with their many goods. Worlds apart, neither the two parties, the transmitter and the infected, were aware, at least primarily, of what the devastating effects would be when coming in contact with these diseases. Due to the fact that they were from different parts of the world, and seas away from each other, those who were infected were not immune yet to the diseases the merchants carried, and it had devastating effects of the population. These massive disease outbreaks resulted in drastic changes, beginning at the end of the Classical period. As the germs traveled from one side of the world to the other, they became more dangerous. One of the most obvious examples of what disease did throughout the Silk Road was in the Americas. When European settlers came to colonize America, they brought with them infectious diseases such as the bubonic plague, and malaria, killing off almost 90% of the native people. This made it especially easy to conquer lands and force Natives to work, and when they were running out of native workers, they just imported slaves from Africa. The diseases they brought made it possible for them to conquer as much land as they did and it also made it possible for the Europeans to destroy many of the Natives history, because the Natives could not stop them, for they only had few people left. Other than the natives in the Americas, both the Han Empire and the Roman Empire, tremendous trade destinations, had immense problems with disease in the 100s and the 200s C.E.: most likely these people experienced the bubonic plague, smallpox, and measles. For example, in the 100s C.E., about 45 million people lived in the Roman Empire, but in the 400s C.E. the population dropped at least 5 million. Likewise, the population in China dropped by 10 million in the 200 years following 200 C.E., sinking to 50 million. Unfortunately, the transfer of these devastating diseases to places without natural immunity to them caused devastating population decline throughout the classical and post-classical period. Despite the constant changes in materials traded, the original purpose of the Silk Road remained undamaged throughout the Classical and Post-Classical period. Asian goods were traded with European merchants along the Silk Road and vice versa. In particular, spices from Asia, which were traded with most wealthy empires, particularly Europe, fueled Asia’s economy. These spices were wanted by the Europeans constantly and elaborated the importance of the Silk Road. During the Post-Classical period, many countries like Portugal and Spain, tried to take control of the Spice trade. Although unsuccessful, it shows the importance of the spice trade to the Silk Roads. The spice trade created an economic boom in Asia and every other country wanted that leading to wars and a race to find the quickest route to Asia. Furthermore, Asia’s economy, specifically China’s economy, was dependent on the money from trade on the Silk Road, regardless the type of goods that were traded to fuel their economy. Likewise, Asian trades drove Europe’s economy. Throughout 200 B.C.E to 1450 C.E., the Silk Roads had drastic changes due to its growing empires, new technology and spread of diseases. One thing that remained constant was trade between Asia and Europe and their economies’ reliance on such trade. The effect the Silk Road had on empires and how it allowed ideas, like religion and philosophies, to be spread throughout the Silk Roads also remained constant throughout the Classical and Post-Classical period. Growing empires contributed new ideas, technology and crops. It also controlled much of the influence throughout Eurasia. New technology provided better transportation and faster ways to spread ideas. Lastly, diseases directly affected populations that were not immune to foreign diseases such as the bubonic plague, malaria and small pox and decimated populations.

Impacting moment in my Life Essay

It is difficult for me to explain a situation that has impacted my life. When God created the earth he decided that every person would be different, some big others small, some thick others thin. He also decided that everyone would have different behaviors. Some people would be shy and calm with little talking, while others the total opposite loud and more extravagant. Between all these categories I represent the shy and calm, for this reason it is very hard for me to express an impacting moment in my life. The most impacting moment in my life occurred many years ago when I started living my life fully and felt complete. My parents decided to register me to a public school in the city Guayama and I did not dominate well the language Spanish. For me this news was very impacting. One of the reasons I was scared of learning a second language I didnt dominate, another reason was losing all the friends I had made and had kept me company for many years but the major reason was leaving the house in the military base Roosevelt roads. Everything happened when my father decided it was time to retire the military service because he had given 20 years of his life and was tired of the same routine he had daily in the service. I counted on the short age of 13 and was enrolled in the 7th grade in the military base Roosevelt roads in Cieba Puerto Rico. I had been 6 years cursing in military schools; previously I had lived in different military bases in the United States and also Cuba. I always had fluent English teachers, and although I lived in Puerto Rico all my friends lived in the base and talked English. Due to the style of life I was accustomed to live was changing I started to feel panic and very scared. Read more:Â  Proudest Moment To find out that my parents decided to stay in the island for one more year because they hadnt thought of where to move in the United States made me worry. My mother decided to enroll me in a private school where English was the main language, but I opposed on her decision because I wanted to be in the same school as my cousin was. Due that I was afraid to express myself in Spanish since it was not my first language, I felt more secure having a family member close so it would be easier for me. My mother always showed us the importance it was to dominate 2 languages, but due to always being surrounded by people who spoke, read, and wrote English was easier for me to focus only in the English language. Arriving to the school in Guayama and seeing the school system and the environment of students was very different from what I was used of seeing I felt alone and lost. Due to how timid I was it was hard for me to make friends. Speaking Spanish wasnt the main problem, understanding what people tried to tell me was the problem. Reading and writing Spanish was also an obstacle in the school I assisted. The teachers were very patient with me and in some way they would always try to help me. My cousin was a very important factor that helped me overcome obstacles. Another reason that I felt sad and mad was having to leave my friends from the base. Practically I lived four years of my life where everyone knew each other and the register of the school was so small that every teacher knew each student. The majority of the military parents extended their orders because they felt safe and secure in Roosevelt roads. To have lived in that base for four years was magnificent and are moments I will treasure always with love. For this reason it was hard for me to proceed from leaving that place. I couldnt accept a drastic change of the commodities I had enjoyed. Finally I will mention that although the impact of changing schools, learning a new language, leaving old friends and a military base affected my life in that precise moment, it also helped me grow as a human and mature. After many years I understood why my mom pushed me in knowing two languages. I realized it when I started the university and saw how important knowing two languages are. Ive also lived it; since my mother is a teacher in Orlando and dominates two languages she has more opportunities in schools. Due that I wanted to expand my horizons educative I decided to come to Puerto Rico with the purpose of learning more of the language in Spanish. Today I thank God and my parents for the most impacting moment I had years ago because now my major interest is to dominate two languages so much in English as much in Spanish to become a bilingual teacher and help students that face the same problem I once did.

Metals and corronslon Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Metals and corronslon - Lab Report Example These conditions are air and water. In test, tube II there was also more brown color indicating that rusting took place. Salt, air, and water favored the process of rusting. In test tube, III there was no observable color change on the oil. This is because the water was boiled which expelled all the oxygen. Secondly, the oil film prevented oxygen from entering the tube therefore rusting did not take place. The brown color was missing in test tube III. From the experiment conducted above, we can clearly conclude that the process of resulting requires the presence of water and air, which is oxygen to be specific. This is the reason why nails in test tube II and I ended up in brown color. Iron nail in test tube III did not rust due to the absence of oxygen (Holleman and Wiberg). Copper is the best conductor of electricity while it is also the most brittle. Brass, which is an alloy of copper and iron, is the harder of the two. Rusting can be prevented through various means. One of the methods to prevent rust is by oiling. Oiling prevents entry of oxygen, which is an essential condition necessary for rusting. Painting is also another possible means of preventing rust. Galvanization is the process of applying a coat of layer that is resistant to rust. This process also helps in preventing rust in metals. Method of storage is also amongst the simple ways in which corrosion can be prevented. Ensure that metals are stored in a cool and dry place to prevent rusting. In conclusion, water and oxygen are the necessary conditions for rusting to occur. The experiment was a complete success showing also the rate of conductivity between brass, copper, and iron. In summary copper is the best conductor of electricity as compared to brass and iron. Painting, coating, galvanizing, and method of storage are some of the ways that can be used to prevent the process of

Nursing Shift Handover Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Nursing Shift Handover - Research Paper Example The key feature not present in this approach is the individual care planning and the gathering of all the information about patients was written inward diaries using nurses notes (Kasseau). In post-modern nursing, shift handover includes communication between the change of shift, communication between care providers about patient needs, handoff, records and information tools to assist communication between care providers about the care provided for patients (Clinical handover). Shift handover procedures are essential when considering that nurses take breaks from tasks of which they have joint responsibility and that under these conditions communication fosters coordination of activities and accountability. Nursing provides continuous care services to patients and a shift handover is generally a time of; preparation by outgoing personnel; shift handover wherein incoming and outgoing nurses exchange information; and cross-checking of information by the incoming nurses as they take on the responsibility for tasks. The ideal outcome of shift handover is precise and reliable communication of task-relevant information across shifts to guarantee continuity of safe and efficient working environments.   Hospital in the UK, and a relevant literature review. Firstly, an example of a shift handover will be presented. Secondly, a literature review will outline communication theory in regards to nursing handover, as well as review the most up-to-date studies into efficient shift handover in a nursing setting. Thirdly, the key principles involved in developing efficient shift handover will be listed.  Ã‚  

How has social Merida use as a marketing and distribution tool changed Dissertation

How has social Merida use as a marketing and distribution tool changed the way we consume audio visual media, and what effect ha - Dissertation Example Moreover, the aim of the study which has been achieved was to understand social media as a marketing and distribution tool. Using an interview question based on 11 questions, 8 respondents from UK, the study found that social media has brought a major influence on each of the music industry players, artists, distributors and audiences. Some of the respondents including artists and listeners described about social media positive influence, while the others like distributors claimed that social media has negatively affected them. The study concludes that that social media has become one prominent element in the music industry and it’s affects on participants of the industry are quite prominent. Affects like artist promotion and free access download for listeners are quite prevalent through social media on music industry. Table of Contents Acknowledgement 2 Abstract 3 Chapter 1: Introduction 6 Chapter 2: Literature Review 11 Chapter 3: Research Methodology 23 Chapter 4: Findings and Discussion 29 Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations 41 List of References 44 Appendix A: Interview Guideline 46 Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1. ... The research done by Kaplan & Haenlein (2010) illustrates that the older forms of media were not communication but in fact were information channels, where one would deliver and the rest would simply listen. What social media has done is that it has initiated two sided communication, where the listener can be the speaker or deliverer at the same time. Kaplan and Haenlein (2010) define that â€Å"Social media is a group of internet based applications that builds on the ideological and technological foundations of Web 2.0, and it allows the creation and exchange of user-generated content†. The term Web 2.0 refers to websites with which users can connect to the World Wide Web, and the content available on the website is not restricted to a single source or person (Kaplan & Haenlein, 2010). Social media has not only changed the way people used to interact or share their feelings and experience, but has changed the way people used to perceive, behave and act. Margiotta (2012) under lines the fact that with such easy access to information and other people, it is hard to confine them to a single brand, a single website or a single interest. The time when sellers used to dominate and purchasers used to follow them is way gone. With the power of social media, the table has been turned a whole 180 degree, and brand loyalty is diminished by the emergence of customer interest and satisfaction. Also, it is evident that with greater awareness of products in the market, through word of mouth and blogging on the social media websites, it is now far more difficult to expect users to follow the sellers (Margiotta, 2012). It has been found by several researchers including Elberse (2010), Noteberg

Inclusive Science Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Inclusive Science Education - Essay Example 5). People with physical impairments have long encountered barriers to pursuing careers in science. These barriers come in various forms, including historical, institutional, physical, attitudinal, and curricular hindrances. The CLASS Project uses professional development workshops to prepare educators for inclusive classrooms, thereby helping them do away with obstacles for their students. (Bargerhuff, 2004, p-319) The eventual objective of the project is to augment the depiction of individuals with disabilities pursuing careers in or related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Persons having impairments have worked hard for decades to attain reasonable outcomes in all areas of their lives, employment, independent living, and education. Until the passage of the Education of All Handicapped Children Act (EHA) in 1975, many students with disabilities were regularly excluded from public school.

Efficient Xml (extensible Markup Language) and AJAX Essay

Efficient Xml (extensible Markup Language) and AJAX - Essay Example n be used all the way through the organizations, allowing the description, communication, corroboration, and interpretation of data among applications and between organizations. XML has also verified its usefulness for connecting inherited information to the Web, for the reason that the XML tags are utilized to describe data as it is configured in the legacy data lay up, therefore eradicating the necessity to reconfigure it. XML is quickly turning out to be a standard for e-commerce content. While HTML, documents oversee the demonstration of data and information in a Web browser, XML deals with the configuration and handling of the data engaged. Consequently, XML makes it feasible to store data objects that are constantly established all the way through the businesses, and XML is turning out to be the standard for e-commerce data exchange. XML is not substitute for HTML; however it performs its job with HTML to assist the transmission, exchange, and handling of data. Therefore, all c ategories of content can be arranged by means of XML, such as images files and sound files. Data that need to be distributed outside the organization should stick to widely defined XML framework. On the other hand, inside data should be defined particularly in XML (Hoffer, Prescott, & McFadden, 2007) and (Hoffer, Prescott, & McFadden, 2007, pp. 399-400).The trend of using XML as a constant storage arrangement is becoming more and more widespread for the configuration of data and information, as a transitional database layout, as well as for semantic annotation (MSDN, 2007). The procedure of standardization is itself an enormously complicated one. If one planed a standard too soon, the standard does not regard as sufficient information and is consequently not assumed. If the standard is planned excessively late, as well a lot of people will have assumed their own methods, and the standard will be unnoticed. A number of instances of standards that came too soon or too behind include,

First native women Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

First native women - Essay Example The basis for Lavell and Bedard for their claim of discrimination was how Aboriginal women would lose their Indian status when a non-Indian or a non-registered Indian married them. In addition, it meant that Lavell’s children would be deprived of their Indian status. Lavell argued that Section 12 (1) (b) discriminated the women gender, and the sections should be repealed, in relation to the 1960 Bill of Rights (5). Lavell’s case was the first that dealt with discrimination because of sex. Because of these discriminatory sections, many Indian women were denied their heritage, and not by the will, but because of an archaic law. Lavell did not like how the acts that were set to govern the Indian reserves were being operated, whereby it stated who is not and who is acknowledged as an Indian. Lavell was furious about how the Indian Act allowed the male Indian, who happened to marry out retained their status and were able to pass it on to their non-Indian wives and to their c hildren. The male Indian wives, even though they sometimes did not have First Nation ancestry; they were entitled to full status. The result of the discriminatory sections was the practical ostracism of more than ninety thousand women, their children and their spouses from their societies and traditional homelands (Lavell 7). It caused great emotional, psychological and economic suffering to the affected people. Lavell was not pleased with this outcome because when she married she was sent a notice submitting that she was no longer identified as an Indian as stated in Section 12 (1) (b) of the Indian Act. It is because she was a no native who had married David Lavell a native. These grave effects for enfranchised First Nation women made Lavell go to court to challenge the Indian Act. Lavell’s claim was supported by Bedard, who joined her in 1973 when she appealed for her case after losing it at trial. Lavell had lost her case on the basis that the Canadian Bill of right

Eminent domain Essay Example for Free

Eminent domain Essay Eminent domain refers to the authority to sequester the private property of an individual, including his rights, without the need of obtaining the consent of the owner (Ryskamp, 2006). This power is also known as compulsory purchase, resumption acquisition or expropriation in other countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. The confiscation of private property is generally performed in order for the government of use the aforesaid property. In other cases, the expropriation is conducted in order for the public to make use of the property (United States v. CARMACK, 1946). The most frequent reasons for implementing eminent domain actions include the construction of public utilities as well as highways and railroads (United States v. Gettysburg Electric Railway Company, 1896). The concept of eminent domain should not be interchanged and confused with cases wherein a private property is confiscated by a government that is in a revolutionary situation. Eminent domain is also different from the concept of forfeiture because the sequestration of the private property in forfeiture is based on breaching of a mortgage contract while eminent domain is based on the sequestration of a private property for the use of the government. Eminent domain is associated with condemnation, which pertains to an action that is implemented by the government that results in the transfer of the title of a property from the original owner to the government. The term condemnation that is associated with eminent domain should also not be confused with the condemnation that is related to the classification of buildings that are considered to be unsafe for entry and habitation by people due to natural disasters such as earthquakes and other physical damages due to man- or nature-caused events. Condemnation that is associated with eminent domain states that the government is obtaining a private property or shows an interest in the private property, such as an easement. Generally, the only thing that remains to be determined and finalized is when a condemnation action is filed in the amount of the appropriate compensation. However, there are also some cases wherein the right to sequester is challenged by the owner of the private property, based on the premise that the attempted sequestration is not for public use, or has not been legally approved or endorsed by the court, or simply because the condemnor did not abide by the standard or proper procedure required by law (Greenhut, 2004). The exercise of eminent domain is not solely applied to real property (Galperin, 2007). Governments also have the authority to condemn personal property, including supplies that will be employed for military warfare, franchises, as well as other intangible property such as contracts, patents, trade secrets and copyrights. The first case of eminent domain in English law was known as the Dobbie Process or the Kings Prerogative in Saltpeter Case. The English king required saltpeter as ammunitions of his military and he acquired saltpeter mine that was privately owned. The owner of the private real property sued the king, resulting in the action of the court of establishing the right of the sovereign to sequester any form of private property that has been determined to be needed for public use, without issues of being accused for trespassing. However, such acquisition requires payment or some form of compensation for the taken saltpeter. When the colonies became the United States and the English Common Law was adopted as the law of the new nation, this principle was accepted. However, different from popular belief, the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution did not describe this right in the United States because this policy was already inherent in common law. The Fifth Amendment restricted the power of eminent domain by requiring that any confiscations be plainly for public use and that an appropriate compensation be provided to the owner of the sequestered private property.

Tetra Packs Essay Example for Free

Tetra Packs Essay Selling of milk,first in glass bottles,then in packets ,then tetra packs and vending machines indicates how over the years the means of packaging have changed. This is done so as to reduce costs or improve the goodwill by innovating the mode of packaging. For instance, tetra pack keeps the milk safe for months and is made of paper and can be recycled. Similarly, plastic packets involve lesser costs and vending machines in itself have no packaging cost Selling of milk,first in glass bottles,then in packets ,then tetra packs and vending machines indicates how over the years the means of packaging have changed. This is done so as to reduce costs or improve the goodwill by innovating the mode of packaging. For instance, tetra pack keeps the milk safe for months and is made of paper and can be recycled. Similarly, plastic packets involve lesser costs and vending machines in itself have no packaging cost Selling of milk,first in glass bottles,then in packets ,then tetra packs and vending machines indicates how over the years the means of packaging have changed. This is done so as to reduce costs or improve the goodwill by innovating the mode of packaging. For instance, tetra pack keeps the milk safe for months and is made of paper and can be recycled. Similarly, plastic packets involve lesser costs and vending machines in itself have no packaging costSelling of milk,first in glass bottles,then in packets ,then tetra packs and vending machines indicates how over the years the means of packaging have changed. This is done so as to reduce costs or improve the goodwill by innovating the mode of packaging. For instance, tetra pack keeps the milk safe for months and is made of paper and can be recycled. Similarly, plastic packets involve lesser costs and vending machines in itself have no packaging costSelling of milk,first in glass bottles,then in packets ,then tetra packs and vending machines indicates how over the years the means of packaging have changed. This is done so as to reduce costs or improve the goodwill by innovating the mode of pac kaging. For instance, tetra pack keeps the milk safe for months and is made of paper and can be recycled.

SWOT Analysis of Performance Analysis of Primark

SWOT Analysis of Performance Analysis of Primark PowerPoint Presentation and Written Assessment Executive Summary This report provides information to potential investors using ratio analysis to examine profitability, liquidity, efficiency, the gearing of Primark Ltd for 2015. The report will pay much attention to earning power, liquidity, credit management, debt management, inventory management, and capital structure of Primark by comparing it with three other competitors: Next Plc, TJX UK and House of Fraser. The report highlight on major strength, weakness, opportunities and threats of Primark within the Fashion retail business to aid potential to make a better-informed decision to invest in Primark. The report analyses the financial situation of Primark with its competitors and provides a recommendation for improvement. Primark recorded a significant increase of 7.57% of Return on Capital Employed (ROCE). 2015 saw an increase of 3.76% in turnover. Business and Financial Situation Primark is a subsidiary of the Association of British Food (ABF) Group. The company was incorporated in 1969 in Ireland trading with the name Pennys. Primark is headquartered in Dublin. Primark has grown over the years to carve a niche for itself to be a major high street clothing retailer with an appearance of over 238 branches in UK, Ireland and Europe. Primark offers inventive, trendy clothes at value-for-money prices. Like several fashion retail companies, Primark does not manufacture its products itself. The firm works with suppliers to produce to its requirement. The firm relies on low cost, economies of scale and efficient distribution strategies to sustain its competitive market position. Turnover of Primark between the financial years 2015 and 2014 increased from 2,786,250,000 to 2,890,892,000 which indicates an increase of 3.76% of the 2014 turnover. Primark recorded an 80.47% Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) for 2015 which is 7.57% increase of 2014 ROCE. Profitability of Primark for the year under review did not see much improvement. Primark gained a feeble 0.74% and 0.40% for gross profit margin and operating profit margin respectively. The net profit margin, on the other hand, saw a partly 0.35% in net margin. Overall, profitability grew under 1% for the year under review. There could be many factors causing this partly less than 1% increase in profitability. Competition, increase in operating expenses, the general economy, etc. The Liquidity ratios analyse Primarks ability to meet its short-term obligations as and when they fall due. In general, the ratio assesses how easy it is for Primark to convert its assets into cash. The acceptable range of current ratio is between 0.5 and 2.0. Current ratio and quick ratio saw a partly increase of 0.09 and 0.02 respectively which indicates Primark is operating outside the acceptable range of current ratio. In reality, the current and acid test ratios do not indicate Primark is risky for investors, but Primark operates in an industry where cash is the standard Primarks activity ratios show how it has been effective in utilising its assets to generate income, how long it takes to collect cash from its sales and also make payment for its purchases. Primarks inventory turnover times saw a drop of 1 stock turnover times in 2015 which translated into an increase in the number of inventory turnover period by 8days. This means Primark now require 8 more days to sell off its inventory. Primark has a favourable creditors collection period which allows them ample time to sell off inventory then make payment to suppliers. A 0.10 drop in accounts payable turnover translates into 12 days reduction in creditors collection periods in 2015 which is still favourable to Primark. This indicates Primark mostly buy its inventory on credit. Receivables turnover has reduced from 127 times in 2014 to 50.41 times in 2015. This reduction in receivables turnover translates into an increase of 4 days from 2.87 days in 2014 to 7.24 days in 2015. The increases of 0.05 in asset turnover in 2015 translated into an increase of 3.76% in sales in 2015. Primark is not a highly geared company, this show that the operation of the company is financed through equity. There is a slight decline on the dependence on outside sources of funding from 8.80% to 8%. This is good news for Primark. This indicates that for every  £1 of capital employed 8% is debt and the rest of capital employed financed through equity. The debt to equity ratio of Primark is very high debt-to-equity ratio. There is a slight reduction in the debt-to-equity ratio from 4.62:1 in 2014 to 3.83:1 in 2015. The debt-to-equity ratio indicates that the proportion of Primarks assets financed by creditors are 4.62 and 3.83 times more in 2015 and 2014 respectively than the proportion of assets financed through Primarks equity. The ratio also indicates that, for every  £4.62 total liabilities in 2015 and every  £3.83 of total liabilities in 2014, equity can pay  £1 of it. The acceptable debt-to-equity ratio for most companies is 1.5 2. Primarks high debt-to-equity ratio is as a result of purchasing most of its inventory on credit. The high debt-to-equity ratio does not necessarily mean Primark is risky for investors. Primark is able to generate enough cash because it sells for cash and has also got a favourable creditors collection period of 203 days. Evaluation of Primark with Peers Profitability Primark and Next Plc managed less than 1% increase in gross margin for the year 2015. Next saw a little over one 1% increase in gross margin whilst House of Fraser recorded a decrease of 0.25% in gross margin for 2015. The gross margin of the four firms shows stability in gross margin. Operating margin saw an increase between 0.4% and 1.33% for Primark, Next Plc and TJX UK with only House of Fraser achieving -1.36% in operating margin. House of Fraser with its 58.72% gross margin could manage only 2.64% as operating margin. This is very bad. The picture shows House of Fraser is practising the premium pricing strategy where businesses set cost higher than their competitors as result records low sales. The operating profit margin of Next Plc is almost twice as much of Primarks operating margin. Primark also recorded operating margin little below twice the operating margin of TJX UK whilst TJX UK recorded operating margin little over twice that of House of Fraser. Primark on profitabili ty is doing well looking at the intense competition within the clothing retail industry. Liquidity Liquidity for Primark, Next Plc and TJX UK saw a slight increase in House of Fraser recording a decrease in current ratio. The slight increase in currency ratio means Primark earned 10p, Next Plc earned 6p, and TJX UK earned 28p more of current assets to pay short-term obligations. House of Fraser on the other hand lost 5p of current assets to pay short-term liabilities. The quick ratio is an indication that Primark, TJX UK and House of Fraser have inventory as the larger portion of current assets. Lenders and creditors are very much interested in this ratio as it helps them determine whether Primark, Next Plc, TJX UK and House of Fraser would be able to meet its future obligations. Primark has the least current and quick ratios of 0.37 and 0.05 respectively to  £1 of current liabilities. Efficiency The efficiency with which Primark, Next Plc and House of Fraser use to turn its inventory into sale has reduced. Primark, Next Plc and House of Fraser all had a reduction in their stock turnover times for 2015 with only TJX UK having a slight increase in their stock turnover times which reduced their stock turnover periods by 1.02 days. The decrease in stock turnover for Primark, Next Plc and House of Fraser is insignificant at stock turnover ratio but that is not the same at the stock turnover periods level. The decrease in stock turnover led to an increase of 8 days in stock turnover periods for Primark and Next Plc with House of Fraser having 3.8 days increase in stock turnover periods. All other things being equal, a higher stock turnover and lower stock turnover periods are better. The receivables turnover and receivables turnover periods indicates House of Fraser performed a little better than Primark, Next Plc and TJX UK. The ratios indicate Primark and Next Plc have relaxed credit policies for which debtor are taking advantage of it or they are having problems collecting from customers. All else equal, higher receivables turnover with lower receivables turnover period is better. The 203 days accounts payable days of Primark shows Primark takes more than 6 months to pay creditors, House of Fraser takes more than 2 years to pay its creditors with its 733.67 accounts payable days. The account payable days of Primark and House of Fraser is an indication that they are paying creditors slowly which is good for Primark and House of Fraser on the other hand, its an indication of worsening financial conditions. Creditors would be comfortable with 28.97 days and 36.37 days account payable days of Next Plc and TJX UK respectively. Analysis of the current business environment affecting UK clothing Retail Industry The environments that affect the UK clothing industry can be categorised into Macro and microenvironment. The macro environments consist of factors that affect all organisations across industries. These factors would be analysed using the Porters Five Forces Analysis. According to Grant 2005, the varying degrees of the factors within the business environment (industry) would determine the pressure, competition level and the profit it will make. The five sources analysed by Michael Porter are competition from new entrants, Competition from established rivals, competition from substitutes, bargaining power of buyers and bargaining power of suppliers. Markets that are profitable keep on attracting new entrants and the clothing retail market is no exception. With a minimum capital requirement of the clothing retail market, its easy for new companies to enter and as a result of the eventual profits across the industry decrease. The only way that Primark and other big firms can secure their market is to take advantage of their economies of scale. Establish more outlets to enable them to sell at a cheaper price to induce sales. By this, new entrants would not be able to compete. Customers have got over thousand and one substitutes to choose from within the clothing retail market. There are many well-established competitors and well-branded substitutes within the clothing retail market for customers to make a choice but the ultimate goal of the customer is to pay less for better quality. Primark should offer the best quality at an affordable price that customers would be able to pay. The clothing industry is fragmented with the intense rivalry between retail companies. Next Plc, JTX UK and House of Fraser are all rivals to Primark but Primark has got some loyal customers who are satisfied with Primarks brand. Primark should protect its brand as customers are interested in the brand they associated themselves with. Any negative reputation will affect Primarks image which competitors would take advantage of. The saturation of the clothing retail market has led to a highly competitive environment where customers have many brands to choose from. Buyers power is high as they have lots of alternatives to choose from. For Primark to defuse this power, it must offer lower prices, varieties of unique designs, high quality, quality customer service and solid brand image that customers would not be able to reject. With the aim of attracting every potential buyer, suppliers of Primark would have lower supplier power the firm tries to satisfy the needs of its customers with variety. Primark source its products from cheap economies and suppliers have to supply based on agreed standards and designs. SWOT Analysis of Primark The SWOT Analysis provides strategic analysis of Primarks business operations which would provide a competitive advantage over its competitors. This analysis shows the strength, weakness, opportunities and threats of Primark within the clothing retail market. Strengths The business model of Primark is based on high sales volumes and lower retail margins with minimal advertising which enable it to offer low prices to customers. Primark takes advantage of bulk buying which help it to enjoy economies of scale to enables it to keep cost down. Primark has an extensive range of products including childrenswear, menswear, lingerie, accessories and footwear. Primark has got strong presence across UK and Europe with over 280 stores and also known in Ireland as Penneys. Primark employs about 50000 people around the world Weakness Primark has outsourced its manufacturing line and this may lead to inconsistencies in quality. The slow economic growth of UK and EU has held the group profit back. The online retail channel is the fasters retail market in the UK and Primark has no presence for the online market. Opportunities Clothing is an essential product for everyone especially the youth population and that there is a constant demand for clothing. Primark should extend its presence to the USA, Africa, Middle East, China and India. One of the fastest growing segments of Primark is sportswear. Threats Primark has got no presence in emerging markets like Africa and its sales are dependent on the health of the UK and EU economy so any shock to the economy would be a disaster. There is an intense competition between online retailers and physical retailers and Primark is no exception. Businesses like Primark with operations in Europe are griped with fear as the government approach to Brexit saga would affect their operations in EU market. Share Valuation of Primark Primarks shares could be currently valued at  £6.98 per share. Looking at the performance of Primark with its peers the stock price of Primark could be sold at a premium. I would recommend a  £10 price per share for Primarks stock in the IPO. Conclusion Primark rub shoulders with the big brands within the industry in terms of sales and have the potential for IPO. The corporate governance of Primark must be strengthening so that directors and officers would not take advantage of weak corporate government structure. With the worsening performance of the British pounds against the Euro and the US dollar, a critical assessment of the UK governments Brexit policies and the impact that Brexit would have on the UK economy and its relationship with the rest of Europe must be done. For now, I would recommend suspension of Primarks IPO, to enable it to conduct a critical analysis of the Brexit Policies of the UK government and the impact it would have on businesses. Forecast With the financial year 2014 to 2015, Primarks turnover increased by 3.76% we still presume that Primark would be able to achieve 3.5% increase in sales revenue. The weakening value of the British pounds as a result of Brexit will hit Primark because it sources its product in the US dollar. This would increase the cost of sales, operating cost and interest payable of Primark. The 3.5% expected increase in sales revenue and 3% increase in the cost of sale would result in an increase of 5.52% in gross profit. In all, it is estimated that Primark would be able to achieve about 2.53% increase in Profit after Tax for the year 2016. Factors That May Impact Primarks Share Valuation Investors must carefully evaluate the information they obtain about an organisation to help develop current and future expectation value. The value of Primark would be determined by both internal factors, which are under the control of the management of Primark. Key factor that would influence the value of Primark are; Profitability The ability of Primark to generate a profit would attract investors to invest their resources into the company. Investors want to see appreciable returns on their investments and Primark has the prospect and ability to generate profit to multiply shareholders wealth. Growth For all other things being equal, companies with a strong demonstration of growth trends attracts potential investors and commands higher multiples. As Primark expand its presence in Europe, US, India and other emerging markets, it will create an opportunity for higher sales and profitability for which investors would be attracted to. Risk Investor wants to protect their investment by avoiding high-risk companies for less risk once. Investors would use any of the following to evaluate Primark as a high risk or less Risk Company. Market analysis the clothing retail market is open and there are no barriers to entry, Primark should put enough strategies in place so that the activities of new entrants would not affect it. Management Primark needs people with vast knowledge and experience on its management to implement its policies and strategies and set effective succession plan. Internal control investors would want to see the review and audit Primarks financial statements. Financial situation investor would want to see Primark with the strong balance sheet to prove its financial position, capital structure this will help them determine if Primark would be able to meet its financial obligations. Corporate Governance Recommendation Its a legal requirement of all companies seeking to get listed on the LSE to have a suitable corporate governance system impaled. Corporate governance is special machinery for regulating risk in organisations activities by preventing corporate disasters, scandals, and consequential losses and damages to investors, society and staff. To this end, Primark must have a suitable corporate governance policy in placed. We would recommend Primark to adopt the corporate governance structure below. Annual General Meeting That is the highest decision-making body where directors would render accounts of their stewardship to shareholders and shareholders would have the opportunity to evaluate the report of directors to give them the opportunity to continue their stewardship or vote them out. Board of Directors Primark should have a board where each member has the appropriate set of experience, independence, skills and knowledge to manage Primark. Audit Committee there must be audit committee who will report to the board. Members of the audit committee should comprise of only members of Primarks board whose responsibility would be to identify matters that needs action is taken or improvements and make recommendations with the processes to be taken. The audit committee has the duty to review internal controls, the integrity of financial statements and internal audit. Management Board Primark should have a strong and well-experienced management board that would be responsible for the implementation of policy direction and strategies set by the board and the day-to-day running of the business. Internal Audit there should be an internal audit unit that would provide an independent assurance that Primarks risk management, internal control system and governance are operating effectively. External Auditor as part of the requirements to list on the London stock Exchange, Primark needs to appoint an independent external auditor who will provide an independent opinion whether management has fairly presented the information provided in Primarks financial statements. Annual Report management of Primark should provide an annual report and get it approved by shareholders at the annual general meeting. Benefits of Corporate Governance Good corporate governance ensures corporate success and economic growth. Strong corporate governance maintains investors confidence, as a result of which, company can raise capital efficiently and effectively. It lowers the cost of capital. There is a positive impact on the share price. It provides proper inducement to the owners as well as managers to achive objectives that are in interests of the shareholders and the organisation. Good corporate governance also minimises wasteges, corruption, risk and mismanagement. It hepls in brand formation and development. It ensures organisation is managed in a manner that fits the best interest of all. Reference Atrill, P., McLaney, E. (2010a). Accounting and finance for non-specialists (7th ed.). Harlow, England: Financial Times/Prentice Hall. Atrill, P., McLaney, E. (2010b). Accounting and finance for non-specialists (7th ed.). Harlow, England: Financial Times/Prentice Hall. Berk, J., DeMarzo, P., Harford, J., jo.., jarrad harford, jarrad harford jonathan berk peter demarzo (2008). Fundamentals of corporate finance international financial reporting standards edition (Softcover Internatinal). Boston: Pearson Education (US). Board, F. A. S., St, F. A., ., ards, Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) (2004). Statements of financial accounting concepts: Accounting standards as of June 1, 2004. New York: Financial Accounting Standards Board. Coltman, Coltman, E. (2012). Refreshingly simple finance for small business: A straight-talking guide to finance and accounting. United Kingdom: Brightword Publishing. Crowther, D., Crowther, P. D. (2012). A social critique of corporate reporting: Semiotics and web-based integrated reporting (2nd ed.). Aldershot, England: Ashgate Publishing. Emmanuel, C. R., Otley, D., Merchant, K. (1995). Readings in accounting for management control (the Chapman hall series in accounting and finance) (2nd ed.). London: International Thomson Business Press. European edition. (2017, January 5). Retrieved January 6, 2017, from bloomberg.com, https://www.bloomberg.com/europe Fund prices and data. (2016). Retrieved January 6, 2017, from Morningstar, http://www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/ Horner, D., Gillespie, A. (2000a). Accounting and finance: An analytical and evaluative approach to business studies (A level B.. London: Hodder Stoughton Educational. Horner, D., Gillespie, A. (2000b). Accounting and finance: An analytical and evaluative approach to business studies (A level B.. London: Hodder Stoughton Educational. Hrsg (2013a). Integrated reporting: Concepts and cases that redefine corporate accountability. Dordrecht: Springer International Publishing AG. Hrsg (2013b). Integrated reporting: Concepts and cases that redefine corporate accountability. Dordrecht: Springer International Publishing AG. Kim, S. H. (1998). Global corporate finance: Text and cases (4th ed.). Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishers. Lee, T. A. (2006). Corporate governance and financial reporting. Chichester, United Kingdom: Wiley, John Sons. Limited, K. N. (2016, June 10). Primark stores limited. Retrieved January 6, 2017, from www.keynote.co.uk, https://www.keynote.co.uk/company-report/financials/profit-loss/00453448 (Limited, 2016) Media, B. L. (2017). ACCA P2 corporate reporting (international UK): Study text. United Kingdom: BPP Learning Media. Appendixes

Environmental Ethics Essay -- shallow ecological thinking, deep ecolog

"If we each take responsibility in shifting our own behavior, we can trigger the type of change that is necessary to achieve sustainability for our race or this planet. We change our planet, our environment, our humanity every day, every year, every decade, and every millennia." -- Yehuda Berg The state of our environment has been deteriorating for centuries. Every part of the planet has been negatively impacted by man. Environmental degradation was greatly accelerated by the industrial revolution that took place in the 19th century. The industrial revolution mechanized the production of goods and introduced the use of machinery and other heavy equipment which were fueled by dirty sources of energy. At first, wood and coal powered the engines of industry, later they were replaced by natural gas and petroleum(Alters 51-63). At this point, it simply is not enough to just "do no harm" to the environment. We must immediately begin to act on behalf of the environment, instead of just not against it. My ethics concerning the environment have always run along the lines of "shallow ecological thinking,(Naess)" as Arne Naess called it. I choose to avoid pollution and to reduce, reuse, and recycle because these actions seem beneficial to humans in one way or another. This reasoning is shared by many people in regards to the environment and animal rights considering anything as a means to human ends, rather than as ends in themselves. Even the above passage from the Bible seems to allocate all the goods of the earth to humans and puts all the natural resources under their direct supervision. I understand the above passage to mean that man is obliged to look after the environment and to protect it, much like a mother looks after her chi... ...ered by a world of people. We need to keep in mind, however, that ethics do not develop spontaneously, so we must allow a bit of leeway, some room to move, grow, and evolve. With this mindset, the environmental damage can first be slowed, then stopped, and eventually reversed and mended. It may seem drastic, but this plan of action may be more necessary than the people of our needy planet realize. Works Cited Alters, Sandra, ed., â€Å"Coal.† Energy: Supplies, Sustainability and Costs. Detroit: Thomson Gale, 2007. 51-63. EBC. OhioLINK Scholarly and Reference E-Books. Web. 17 Apr. 2015 Naess, Arne. "THE SHALLOW AND THE DEEP, LONG RANGE ECOLOGY MOVEMENTS" Inquiry (Oslo), 16 (1973). Web. 5 May 2015 http://www.alamut.com/subj/ideologies/pessimism/Naess_deepEcology.html Singer, Peter. Practical Ethics. Second ed. New York: Cambridge University Press, 1998.

People with Chronic Diseases :: Health, Diseases

There are many diseases in the world that affect patient’s life. WOH has mentioned that chronic conditions might lead to disability in the future which leads to spend a lot of money to treat patients (WHO, 2005). Chronic condition has been defined as â€Å"health problems that require ongoing management over a period of years or decades, and include: diabetes, heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary Disease (COPD), cancer, HIV/AIDS, depression, and physical disabilities. To control chronic diseases and prevent patients from getting worse, all health professional and patients should be aware about self management. Therefore, this assignment will explain that ‘Self-management is an important component of effective management of people with chronic conditions and implant current self management models in health care can help to improve the quality of outcomes for patients and health care system. Self management can be defined as â€Å"Involves (the person with the chronic disease) engaging in activities that protect and promote health, monitoring and managing of symptoms and signs of illness, managing the impacts of illness on functioning, emotions and interpersonal relationships and adhering to treatment regimes.† (flinders) The main goal of self management is to strength and increase patient’s confidence and aware about managing their health problems (self management toolkit 2011). Self-management of chronic conditions is should consider many factors which are Patients and their family and the health providers should be involved in the plan with consideration all the medical and psycho-social components of a condition in order to empowering the patient through proactive and adaptive strategies (W. Battersby, et al, 2003 p. 43). Self management toolkit showed that engage the patient and make him/her be involved in goals sitting is a good way to improve patie nts self management and increase the relationship between patients and the providers which may led to increase patient's confidence (self management toolkit 2011).Self management toolkit shows good communication strategies for improving self management in patients with chronic diseases which are engaging the patients, exploring importance ambivalence and collaborative action planning (self management toolkit 2011). In addition, W. Battersby, et al has mentioned that a comprehensive definition of self management is: Self-management should involve the patient who is working in partnership with their carers and health professionals (W. Battersby, et al, 2003 p. 43). Many studies showed that self management program can improve quality of life of patients with chronic diseases and improve the quality of health care organizations. People with Chronic Diseases :: Health, Diseases There are many diseases in the world that affect patient’s life. WOH has mentioned that chronic conditions might lead to disability in the future which leads to spend a lot of money to treat patients (WHO, 2005). Chronic condition has been defined as â€Å"health problems that require ongoing management over a period of years or decades, and include: diabetes, heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary Disease (COPD), cancer, HIV/AIDS, depression, and physical disabilities. To control chronic diseases and prevent patients from getting worse, all health professional and patients should be aware about self management. Therefore, this assignment will explain that ‘Self-management is an important component of effective management of people with chronic conditions and implant current self management models in health care can help to improve the quality of outcomes for patients and health care system. Self management can be defined as â€Å"Involves (the person with the chronic disease) engaging in activities that protect and promote health, monitoring and managing of symptoms and signs of illness, managing the impacts of illness on functioning, emotions and interpersonal relationships and adhering to treatment regimes.† (flinders) The main goal of self management is to strength and increase patient’s confidence and aware about managing their health problems (self management toolkit 2011). Self-management of chronic conditions is should consider many factors which are Patients and their family and the health providers should be involved in the plan with consideration all the medical and psycho-social components of a condition in order to empowering the patient through proactive and adaptive strategies (W. Battersby, et al, 2003 p. 43). Self management toolkit showed that engage the patient and make him/her be involved in goals sitting is a good way to improve patie nts self management and increase the relationship between patients and the providers which may led to increase patient's confidence (self management toolkit 2011).Self management toolkit shows good communication strategies for improving self management in patients with chronic diseases which are engaging the patients, exploring importance ambivalence and collaborative action planning (self management toolkit 2011). In addition, W. Battersby, et al has mentioned that a comprehensive definition of self management is: Self-management should involve the patient who is working in partnership with their carers and health professionals (W. Battersby, et al, 2003 p. 43). Many studies showed that self management program can improve quality of life of patients with chronic diseases and improve the quality of health care organizations.

The Workforce

The workforce is contingent with the teamwork of personnel and state. The workforce remain the main concern of employers everywhere. All areas of employment are touched by economics and its affected by births, plus the quality of training each person receives. 100 years ago, jobs were manufacturing in nature, what I mean is that individuals worked in factories or on an assembly lines. These types of positions weren't very challenging because it's a situation that was repetitious as the worker repeat steps. Subsequently new technology happens to be more demanding, very aggressive and creative. Women are employed within position that once was considered â€Å"only men were productive in. Work shifts are divided into three shifts for several organizations. They're basically eight hours a shift and the employee usually work forty hours a week. Over the years the workforce has added four generation of workers. This has caused a distinctive effect on the workforce causing them to face the age differences. The HR knows that the workforce of the past consequencely will impact the future status of many organizations. They know that achieving their goal depends on how they hire workers. Also, the facts show that countless people are not retiring but are carrying on working well past the age of 65. HR specialists find that they're having to formulate additional resolutions to link the demands relating to the workforce with the aging workers. Which requires HR specialists to understand and be able to execute ways to create jobs and to fill them with acceptable workers. Meanwhile workers and jobs are always transforming so organizations realize that they have diversity and the skill to maintain a balanced workforce being competent to accomplish their goals for the future of the organization. Also, companies have moved to global level with improved technology and communication. Besides more women employees entered the workforce which was not the state 100 years ago where women lives tended to be centered around their families. During World War I changed who the workforce would use once the men were either volunteering or being drafted to serve in the military which resulted in there was no one to fill the positions. So businesses hired the women to work in the men's place. After showing the factories that the women were capable to carry out the duties that the men could do, but they were paid less for the same job. Since then women have demanded rights for equal pay and equal treatment. Because the workforce have become more diverse with gender, age, and culture it has caused organizations to change how they attain workers and maintain their numbers. The older workers are still present in the workforce is making HR to consider alternative ways for hiring, training, and what type of benefits plans to offer as enticements.Today HR managers needs to spend considerable time and money in training in new technology and keep them updated. The future US workforce groups in 2025 would be mostly aged population over 60 years. The workforce I filled with many kinds of technology such as computers, internet, smart phones and many mobile devices that has opened communication where everything seems to move at the speed of light. Therefore, HR will need to be on their toes to meet every task in the future.

Expository – Unpolished Gem

Expository Essay Prompt: The power of the group is often the cause of losing our individual identity â€Å"Our identities have no bodies, so, unlike you, we cannot obtain order by physical coercion. We believe that from ethics, enlightened self-interest, and the commonweal, our governance will emerge. † – A quote from John Perry Barlow. This quote describes how our identity will emerge through the different ethic influences as well as our self – interests. Personal identity is about knowing who you are and what you are the eyes of others. Every different person is different in their own persona.We all come from different families and cultures as well as social groups who influence the way our individual identity is sculpted. Being part of a group can change and/or influence our identity as well as the choices we make. This is commonly known as peer pressure. During adolescence we experience an insurmountable number of changes to our social well-being including th e way we interact with others and what peer groups we associate ourselves with. Throughout this time we learn from many mistakes that usually evolve around our social life including what actions we undertake as a part of our peer group.As depicted in today’s society, a large amount of these groups have negative effects on the individuals that are part of these groups and are therefore judged by society not knowing the individual identity of the people in that group. This is the time where identity is discovered and maintained throughout our maturity into adulthood. Individuality is something all people naturally have that develops into an identity. The definition of â€Å"identity† is the collective aspect of the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognizable or known.Throughout the course of life, people encounter many obstacles that they must overcome and conquer in order to complete the process of learning. Your reputation is determined by the actions that you complete as a result of an association with certain social groups. That reputation translated to a key part of discovering your individual identity. Family groups can complete change the way you express yourself and showing your identity. Every family is different and expect many different characteristics in your identity which include appearance, personality and beliefs.A person can have two separate identities, one they use for family groups and culture and the other for their social groups. How you interact with people from your family group can sometimes interfere and change the way we interact with our social groups making it a negative and positive effect. The cultures in which we live in also alter how we express ourselves and interact with others. Many people with the same cultural background usually form their own group together and sometimes dislike or do not accept other groups because of their cultural backgrounds.In conclusion, the power of groups can c ompletely alter a person’s individual identity through Social group influences and family/cultural influences. The different influences can alter decisions you make as well as the way you act around certain people of society. All around the world people make assumptions and conclusions on a person’s identity through the different groups they are associated with. These different assumptions lead to the world problems of racism, religious wars and also in some aspects war itself.This alone displays the power of the group identity can have over a development of an individual’s sense of identity. Reflective response This essay was basically a replication of how my individuality was/is determined and developed throughout my life. I included the many different influences that had a heavy effect on my personal identity which included the most powerful influence of a group. Being part of a group pretty much disintegrated my identity unless I was identified on my own wit h people from another group.The audience is basically anyone who wants to learn more about how their Individual identity may be developed without knowing when or in what way it had developed. Many adolescences can relate to these influences as they are my fellow peers who are experiences many of these things that shape who we are and aren’t. However it was quite a challenge to try include these influences and explain them so many people who be the audience of this will have to have some sort of understanding about identity in general so that they can relate to the purpose and context of the text.

Unit 4 P5

Life Stages I will be explaining the physical and psychological changes which may be associated with ageing. Physical changes – skin, bones and joints * Skin becomes more wrinkled, thinner and less elastic. * Bones are less dense and are more likely to suffer from minor or serve injuries. * Joints stiffen and can be more painful as the bones thin out. * Muscles become weakened and loosen. * The spine may round which leads to hunched backs and other spine conditions. Senses: * Vision is not as good as it use to be, sometimes with ageing comes an eye condition known as cataracts. Deteriorating may occur within the senses of taste and smell. * Sense of hearing will deteriorate becoming more difficult to hear low pitch sounds. * Balance senses become poor. Organs: * Organ muscles become weaker in which could create risks of constipation. * Blood pressure increases. * Breathing starts to change. * Nutrients from foods don’t often get taken in as well as before when younger. Respiratory System: When blood is not being pumped around the body properly, breathlessness will result. Common disorders in the respiratory system which will occur include common diseases such as Bronchitis.Chest muscles could reduce with ageing and lungs could deteriorate. Hearing: Most individuals over the age of 60+ suffer from hearing impairment. Most elderly people by the time they have reached 70+have lost their hearing. This could happen due to the sensitivity of the nerve cells decreasing. Learning: It takes longer for an older person to learn something than it once was for them when they were younger; this is to do with the functioning of the brain, as you get older your brain functions slower. Memory Loss: Aging has a substantial affect on the brain. The brain stores all the information that was once learnt in their life.Short-term memories are not usually affected by aging but your recent memory will be affected. Older people generally tend to forget names or their own n ames. This is a normal change within the body. Confusion: Confusion is a common problem in individuals over 65 years old. Confusion may occur fast or slowly over time, depending on the cause. Sometimes confusion can be temporary. Reactions Time: As we get older we tend to process information at a slower pace. This means it can take longer to figure out what is going on and what to do about it. This is usually due to the changes in the nervous system over time.

“Barbie Doll” by Marge Piercy Essay

The poem, â€Å"Barbie Doll†, is about a girl who was growing up in a society which regard highly of female beauty. The title illustrates that most females were expected to be like Barbie dolls. These dolls cast pressure on the girl to be like supermodel. In this story, the girl failed to meet the standards of society and viewed as a social outcast.The first paragraph describes a growing girl who was presented with dolls, miniature GE stoves, irons and lipsticks. This will ensure that the girl will know which gender roles she should be and not too deviate from the accepted social custom. The mood of the poem changes when the author describes, the magic of puberty. Here, it refers to a time of emotional crisis that the girl went through as she matures. She is constantly teased for not looking like the typical Barbie dolls. The second paragraph began with mentioning the girls positive aspects, such as She was healthy, tested intelligent, possesses strong arms and back and abundant sexual drive and manual dexterity, These sentences portray the girl image (female) to male characteristics. The tome in the poem changes again when the author stated, the girl went to and fro apologizing, and everyone still say she had a fat nose and thick legs, the society again, scorn at the ugly appearance of the girl. In the third paragraph, line twelve to sixteen, the girl is expected to fake her natural behavior, emotion and characteristics. The fan belt was used to exemplify that one cannot endure the pressure placed by society to meet their standards and will wear out eventually. Consequently, she cut off her nose and legs. Therefore, the last paragraph expressed her death as consummation at last. Dont she look pretty? Everyone said. In this line, the author wants the reader to make good judgment to the senseless situation in which society judge beauty to female. I think that children, especially boys, are not born with hatred or feelings of enmity towards female who have physical figures below social standards. They are all programmed that way by selfish or ignorant male adults. If these male adults can only take a look at themselves and see that all they have done is to destroy. The lives of their opposite sex, driving down their  self-esteem to the deepest pit, then this society will be a better place to live in.

Accidents Happen All the Time

It involved a car border line illegal with balding tires, and brakes set on suicide mode. The person driving the vehicle of doom was a struggling college student, with little and or no money. The lady driving a car right off the lot spoke with thick New York accent and had the temper to match. It’s funny how at any moment, thoughts turn into actions, actions turn into events, and suddenly were left to face the aftermath. That day specifically was a mess of intertwining events that lead to two people meeting in unfavorable circumstances. Everyone gets involved in accidents, whether they’re cautious or reckless. The driver of a black kia death machine was especially cautious considering she knew it was not the best in regards to safety. She knew it wasn’t long before some freak accident would cross his path, but she would try to avoid it like hell. The fact is life is a recycling wheel, in which past leads to present, and every action has its foot print in the future. It was early in the morning, around 7:30 and the streets were busy with stop and go traffic in every direction. The sky was overcast, gray clouds blocking all sunlight, with rain pouring down in scatters. The streets were glossy with rain, and the reflection of the lights shone on the surface. Traffic was absolutely ridiculous and early commuters are often aggressive if not outright maniacs. The young woman was driving her way home from a late night with friends, still a little groggy since she wasn’t use to being up so early. She had driven down that road a million times and never had any issues with the morning flow. She was just about to merge into the next lane, since the turn for the highway was coming up further ahead. She started to drive over and saw the car ahead break lights shining brightly through the light rain. She began to pump the breaks, when suddenly the car didn’t slow down as expected. The car ahead seems to being nearing quickly, and her heart started to race. She pulls the emergency break and feels the drive of the car as it pushes forward regardless. In mere moments a normal drive home turned into a scary event. The sound of screeching tires pierced the air, a loud thud broke the morning silence, and what followed can be described as an atmosphere of confusion and anger. The driver in the black kia didn’t know what to do. She had just hit a car from behind, and she knew he had to get out and confront the other driver. It was raining, which made it entirely more uncomfortable, and all around him cars honked and whizzed by in frustration. She opened the door cautiously with shaking hands. A head a lady comes at her with craziness in her eyes, staring directly at her. â€Å"You little punk, are you freaking blind†. The lady that hit the car was trying to stay calm saying â€Å"Lady, get a grip. Your car is still drivable†¦ my bumper is sitting on the ground†. The lady was furious; she screamed for 5 minutes before she noticed the other driver wasn’t saying anything and then she apologized. The two began to explore the damage, which inflicted much more harm on the kia then the new 2013 escalade. The new car had a few scratches, but the young college student’s car looked like it had a head on collision with a semi-truck. It wasn’t even the worst Part of everything because the faulted driver had no insurance, and she knew she was going to get totally screwed by the man in blue because she has zero car insurance. The cops arrived on scenes approximately two hours later. The thought of fleeing the scene had cross the faulted drivers mind more than a few times. If it weren’t for a bumper half on the ground, and an exchange of information holding her back, she has been half way home and scott free. Three hundred dollars in fines, and lawsuit pending, that young driver figured something crucial out. Don’t drive without insurance, and if you are don’t do it with a car with bad breaks because you will inevitably screw your life over and get into an accident. Accidents Happen All the Time It involved a car border line illegal with balding tires, and brakes set on suicide mode. The person driving the vehicle of doom was a struggling college student, with little and or no money. The lady driving a car right off the lot spoke with thick New York accent and had the temper to match. It’s funny how at any moment, thoughts turn into actions, actions turn into events, and suddenly were left to face the aftermath. That day specifically was a mess of intertwining events that lead to two people meeting in unfavorable circumstances. Everyone gets involved in accidents, whether they’re cautious or reckless. The driver of a black kia death machine was especially cautious considering she knew it was not the best in regards to safety. She knew it wasn’t long before some freak accident would cross his path, but she would try to avoid it like hell. The fact is life is a recycling wheel, in which past leads to present, and every action has its foot print in the future. It was early in the morning, around 7:30 and the streets were busy with stop and go traffic in every direction. The sky was overcast, gray clouds blocking all sunlight, with rain pouring down in scatters. The streets were glossy with rain, and the reflection of the lights shone on the surface. Traffic was absolutely ridiculous and early commuters are often aggressive if not outright maniacs. The young woman was driving her way home from a late night with friends, still a little groggy since she wasn’t use to being up so early. She had driven down that road a million times and never had any issues with the morning flow. She was just about to merge into the next lane, since the turn for the highway was coming up further ahead. She started to drive over and saw the car ahead break lights shining brightly through the light rain. She began to pump the breaks, when suddenly the car didn’t slow down as expected. The car ahead seems to being nearing quickly, and her heart started to race. She pulls the emergency break and feels the drive of the car as it pushes forward regardless. In mere moments a normal drive home turned into a scary event. The sound of screeching tires pierced the air, a loud thud broke the morning silence, and what followed can be described as an atmosphere of confusion and anger. The driver in the black kia didn’t know what to do. She had just hit a car from behind, and she knew he had to get out and confront the other driver. It was raining, which made it entirely more uncomfortable, and all around him cars honked and whizzed by in frustration. She opened the door cautiously with shaking hands. A head a lady comes at her with craziness in her eyes, staring directly at her. â€Å"You little punk, are you freaking blind†. The lady that hit the car was trying to stay calm saying â€Å"Lady, get a grip. Your car is still drivable†¦ my bumper is sitting on the ground†. The lady was furious; she screamed for 5 minutes before she noticed the other driver wasn’t saying anything and then she apologized. The two began to explore the damage, which inflicted much more harm on the kia then the new 2013 escalade. The new car had a few scratches, but the young college student’s car looked like it had a head on collision with a semi-truck. It wasn’t even the worst Part of everything because the faulted driver had no insurance, and she knew she was going to get totally screwed by the man in blue because she has zero car insurance. The cops arrived on scenes approximately two hours later. The thought of fleeing the scene had cross the faulted drivers mind more than a few times. If it weren’t for a bumper half on the ground, and an exchange of information holding her back, she has been half way home and scott free. Three hundred dollars in fines, and lawsuit pending, that young driver figured something crucial out. Don’t drive without insurance, and if you are don’t do it with a car with bad breaks because you will inevitably screw your life over and get into an accident.

Merger or Acquisition Case Study (Report) Essay

Merger or Acquisition Case Study (Report) - Essay Example On the other hand, if the organization feels it is not performing up to the expected levels, and needs some pep up from external forces, then also they can merge with or acquire company, which is also â€Å"sailing in the same boat† and thus facing the same issues. Thus, M&A can be both a successful strategy and at the same time survival strategy, aiding the organizations in the short as well as in the long run. Immediately it can fulfill the short term targets, and in the long run, probably after five years, it can satisfy each entities long term goals. So, this paper focusing on the merger of AT&T and BellSouth will first discuss the stated aims of that deal and the extent to which these aims have been fulfilled or being fulfilled. AT&T Inc is USA’s largest fixed telephony as well as mobile telephony provider. AT&T has reached its present status, after going through a series of break-ups and mergers. The original AT&T was divided in 1983 as a result of the United Stat es vs. AT&T antitrust suit, and Southwestern Bell Corporation (SBC) came into existence as the newer version of AT&T. Then in 1995, SBC changed its name to SBC Communications Inc. Then, finally in 2005, SBC Communications Inc. became AT&T Inc. ... One of the main aims of this acquisition by AT&T is to create a ‘super-sized’ AT&T, with largest customer base. In case of mergers and acquisitions, in particular acquisitions, the aim of the acquiring company is to further expand its size, operations, reach, etc, by absorbing all the resources of the acquired company. Likewise, in the case of AT&T, it is already a major corporation, while BellSouth was a middle player. Thus, AT&T wanted to further accentuate its size, reach and importantly customer numbers, and this acquisition of BellSouth provided the needed leverage and the numbers. The other associated aim of the acquisition is to control more than half of the telephone as well as internet broadband lines in USA. This way, it also wanted or aimed to beat their competitors. Competition is part of every business, and only if the concerned organization comes up with effective and sometimes â€Å"out of the box† strategy, it can beat off the competition. Thus, th is way AT&T can beat of its competitors like Verizon, Comcast, etc. With Verizon close on its heels, AT&T wanted to accumulate a customer base, which will be ahead of Verizon and other competitors. So, its aim to garner half of the total telephone and internet lines also pushed it to acquire BellSouth. Apart from these AT&T centric aims, the acquisition was also carried out with another aim of propping up Cingular Wireless, the mobile telephony wing. Even before the acquisition, both AT&T and BellSouth only managed Cingular’s operations, but without an single administrative setup. So, both AT&T and BellSouth through the acquisition process aimed to create a more efficient Cingular Wireless. Firstly, the merger

Analytics, Interfaces, and Cloud Technology Assignment

Analytics, Interfaces, and Cloud Technology - Assignment Example However, the options and methods are critically examined helping the financial executives to deploy effectively. Once the procedures are scanned carefully the decision is made on the bases of available information (GRIFFIN & DANSON, 2012). Several organizations prefer to deploy analytics or a division of analytics capability through a method named as â€Å"Cloud†. The Cloud computing is not new in business organizations. For the past three decades, the remote access towards applications, platforms and infrastructure has been attached with the corporate of information technology operations and organizations (GRIFFIN & DANSON, 2012). Therefore, in recent years the difference is in the degree and effectiveness in which Cloud computing can be deployed. In addition, the Cloud computing operation means that the all applications, platforms and infrastructure of any organization must be managed by the third party. The advantages related to the Cloud include both cost saving as, well a s logistical benefits. Thus, these benefits are utilized by the organizations that are suffering from three trouble making forces that are joining along with other organizations. Moreover, on the global level; huge information, improved mobility and business oriented social media can change the way business is conducted in organizations. It is possible that the business rules are revised and the operations are re calculated that will affect the customer’s interaction with the organization. In modern days, many companies and other organizations are now realizing the importance of the Cloud for future strategies in the field of Information Technology. (GRIFFIN & DANSON, 2012) A recent Deloitte survey, Mid-market Perspectives: 2012Report on America’s Economic Engine reports that 40 percent of mid-market companies think that leveraging the Cloud will be an integral part of their ongoing IT strategy in 2012 and beyond. This is up 38 percent from 2011. In order to deal with the sudden increase of information, the demand is increased for the mobility options and the response of social media influence must recognize the prospective of the Cloud. How the CLOUD Control Distractions The most effective sources that influence customer’s sentiments and reactions are considered huge information, mobility and evaluation of social media that helps to estimate the user’s potential and interest towards information technology. But on the other hand, if it is for in business then it can be troublesome as usual. However, the financial executives can control the past and future operations and can construct a firm foundation that helps an organization in achieving their goals (GRIFFIN & DANSON, 2012). Cloud Computing Storage The storage of cloud computing requires a lot of space, in fact humongous data centers where data is collected and managed. These data centers pose several threats and security risk that may impact these data storage machines. The thre at may be from a professional hacker and also in the form of the cloud provider itself, if data is not adequately dealt with. A minor security incident or mis configuration can lead to a system failure or unavailability. For instance, in 2008, only a tiny corrupted bit integrated with a message that was used by the servers of Amazon’s Simple Storage Service (S3) that provide services of online data storage imposed a system shutdown for many hours (Talbot, 2010). Moreover,

American CEOs Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

American CEOs - Research Paper Example This is because the public is concerned that unfair CEO compensation can lead to disproportionate distribution of wealth. This paper argues that outrageous CEO compensation can result in depriving the shareholders, force the workers to accept reduced pay and lead to an imbalance which could be unsustainable in the long run for the organization as well as for the shareholders. The different forms in which CEOs were compensated have evolved over the years. In the 1980s the CEO compensation comprised mainly of cash salary and bonus with only 30% CEOs being granted the stock options. By 1994 options became a major component comprising of 70% of the CEOs receiving new option grants (Core, Guay and Larcker, 2003). Stock options thus became a major component of the CEO equity incentives. Theories have been cited to explain the CEO pay packages but according to Otten (2208) the executive pay packages are set by â€Å"simple† economics. It is often believed that the CEOs need to be com pensated for the risks they take and hence the market forces set the packages. Qualified professionals are few and hence valuable. They have to be offered incentives as they take on additional risks for value-increasing decisions, it is argued. Compensation takes various forms such as bonuses, shares and option grants. In other words, Otten argues, they are paid by performance and based on experience and seniority. If CEO pay could boost firm performance then imbalance would not occur but there is no support in empirical studies that there is a link between corporate financial performance and executive pay. Professor Kaplan argues that CEOs are underpaid and their compensation is based on the stock performance of the company. Walsh (2008) counters this stating that it is difficult to ascertain whether the CEO has been paid for his own performance or for his predecessors. Besides, the stock prices are always industry-adjusted and do not reflect the actual performance of the company. Since compensation is based on level of seniority and qualifications, the CEOs take home much more money than an average American worker (Walsh, 2008). The disproportionate distribution of wealth is evident from the fact that in 1980 the CEO made 42 times the average worker’s salary. This ratio increased to 107 in 1990 and 525 in 2000. The top 1000 CEOs took home 7% of their sales in 2005 which collectively amounts to Bolivia’s GDP, says Walsh. The Director compensation at Enron was $380,619 in cash and stock, which was the seventh highest director remuneration at that time (Brick, Palmon & Wald, 2006). Locke (2008) contends that the average workers’ pay adjusted for inflation increased by only 4.3% while the CEO compensation increased by 298 percent. While the median US salary in 2008 was $36,140, the CEO of Washington Mutual earned $5.8 million; the CEO of Boeing earned $19 million while a Church Facilities Manager earned $42,000. The imbalance is further endo rsed by Baker and Fung (2002) who argue that the wages of workers have been declining since the 1980s while the CEO pay has been increasing. Even before taking into account the value of stock options and bonuses, the CEOs in the US received compensation that was twice as high as any other nation. There is no evidence that the CEOs of the US firms are more productive than the CEOs of other nations. The markets know that the true cost of CEO is deliberately hidden (Baker & Fung, 2002).

AD campaign Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

AD campaign - Essay Example These reports are majorly based and founded typically on psychological insights. A real campaign regularly assists brands in avoid commoditization the pressure of competing with the only the only price. Goodwill and loyalty are increased and encouraging buying of across more items within the umbrella brand. Finding of the relevant secret message behind the brand is not easy to be found broadly, and its productions will be done well. The database used in the report is the document-oriented and public domain. The validity found in the assessment of the presented reports revealed that in the campaign, there is a production of the metrics needed by the end user so that the campaign will be well understood (Belch, 2004). In document-oriented database format, the campaigns in most circumstances, store and retrieve their information on the computer. Compared to a relational database, text-oriented has a bigger difference. The encoding of some information that is readable to the user through the sense of English is a central concept of this database. In the other perspective, public domain uses a principal that the information available can be used by anyone in any form and for the user’s desired purpose (Belch, 2004). Complying with relevant rules is a requirement for the proper attribution of the author. Along these reports, there are some disadvantages. The operation of sending out the unidirectional message to the entire audience at the same time through general advertising and sustainability advertising is created. Ability to connect with a consumer and the changes for the response incurred is somehow limited. From this connection inability, generation of feedback relationships and cooperation to the consumers is also disadvantaged. Another challenge faced in these reports is the complexity of the risk message that needs

Concert review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Concert review - Essay Example They can either play with a director or not depending on the occasion. This was the Concerto Stella Matutina’s debut in the Rheingau music festival. The group was led by Rolf Lislevant, who is the group’s baroque guitarist (Manson, 2013). Rolf Lislevant has had a major role in the development of early music performances. This he has done by not just using original music and period instruments, but he also reinstated missing elements of imprecision. This technique was well established and widely used when the music was originally composed. However, its use has become rare in the classic and baroque music. Lislevant was accompanied by two of his colleagues from Kapsberger Ensemble: Thoharald Johnsen a former student and compatriot and Bjorn Kjellemyr. They primarily played in Jazz style on the double bass, using the fingers instead of the bow. Thoharald Johnsen can also play the Renaissance lute, baroque guitar and chitarra battente (Buelow, 2004). The flagship location f or the Rheingau music festival was at the Kloster Eberbach, a former imposing monastery. The concert was sold out, and the attendance was up to one thousand people, who came together for a music session known as â€Å"Early Music Meets Jazz†. The first concert took place in February 2012 in Australia. This concert was one of the most memorable and scintillating that has ever been witnessed in recent years. The change in the venue from their first concert which was done in a concert hall, to cavernous Basilica had some major impacts on several aspects of sound projection. This was mostly experienced with the lowest register instruments. The amplified bass experienced this as it generated a lot of reverberations and the baroque was most of the distinguishable. The brass instruments also at some point could not be heard through the acoustic space. However, this did not prevent players from rocking the concert as they took the problem as a motivation to play better. This gave thi s different concert much joy (Manson, 2013). The pieces that were mostly played dated back to the 16th century, which is very much close to the lutenists’ remit. There were also two pieces from a field that is considered to have been rather neglected by recent  music composers. This is the Australian High Baroque which the Concerto Stella Matutina has made to be their own. One of the Australian High Baroque founding fathers is Johann Heinrich Schmeltzer. His Sonata a 3 was a slow graceful work which since Heinrich’s time has showed the Cornett player’s technical abilities. During that time, the Cornett players were seen on the basis of virtuosity as equals to the violin. Then to the evening’s main business, here the jazz started meeting the earlier music such as the performance of the Aria di Firenze composed in the 16th century. The composer of the lyrics is anonymous. The two guitarists with their fluid and crisp flow of rhythmic precision alternating improvisation and melody vividly brought the out concert’s latest dance theme. This was subsequently supplemented by jazzy trombone. The second half started close to night fall with breathtaking music by Thor-Heralds Johnsen’s alteration of the Kapsberger’s Toccata 2. This was developed by the seamlessly movement of Lislevant’s guitar through Aria Di Passacaglia by Frescobaldi to his electrifying arrangement of Passacaglia Andaluz by an anonymous composer. The two performances by Francesco da Milano were the main highlights of

Apple Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Apple - Essay Example The case study of Apple Incorporation talked about by Baltzan and Phillips elucidates the general inventiveness by Apple Incorporation and Steve Jobs through information systems management. The case gives details on information systems management in four segments relating to Apple making the most on novel developments; getting the most out of the iPod and in the future and iPhone bring about the accomplishment of Apple (Baltzan & Phillips, 2009). Previous to the establishment of iTunes and the iPod, the Corporation had dropped out of competition. Novel organizations for instance Napster had capitalized on the novel development of making use of computers to create audio CD’s. Subsequent to discovering its position, Apple and Sound Scan created iTunes with the use of ISM systems. Apple has acquired the potency to take over ISM systems by integrating skill, business and amusement into a solitary class.Present study has signified that Apple is the peak supplier for portable MP3 Players. From 2001, Apple has traded six billion songs from the time when they initiated (O’Bien, 2005). The structure of organization of apple with its international presence and diverse domains in the industry of electronics would necessitate a method of information dissemination, which permits accessibility of accurate information to the necessary persons and at the appropriate time to guarantee that the business choices embarked on by them are constant and accompanied with apposite accessibility of information. The key objective has at all times been to be the leader of innovation. The equivalent value expands even to the mode in which they deal with their interior communication which platforms their dominance. According to this conception the majority of the developments, which are virtualized, as the organization deems that virtualization is the aspect, which will offer the