International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International Business - Essay Example Japan is experiencing an intensive change as a result of its aging population and decrease in labour force. The country has faced challenge from deflation from previous years, but due to the help of government and political factors, the country is gradually gaining economic advantages at present. In this paper, major business sectors of Japan will be discussed. Socio-economic and political issues have a serious impact on the business growth, GDP growth along with economic development of the country. The growth of business has an impact on population of the country, which has been discussed in this paper as well. 2.0 Principal Business Sector of Japan Japan is one of the highly developed nations in the world. Since resources are limited in the country, companies import raw materials and process them to finished products. Fishing industry in Japan is a growing business sector because a huge amount of marine resources are available in the country (Kids Web Japan, n.d.). Manufacturing in dustries is a key sector in business of Japan. The development of manufacturing industries has been in the first rank. The country is one of the world’s leading shipbuilders. Majority of ships are exported along with large oil tanker in the world (Country Studies, 2011). Automobile business sector is one of the core industrial sectors of Japan. The country is also considered as one of the top automobile producers. Advanced technology of Japan in the design of buses, motorcycles, bicycles and high-speed trains are the major factors in the business growth of transport industry. Chemical in addition to petrochemical industry are primary business sectors. Semi-conductor business of Japan developed in size and thereby stimulating profits. Automotive products comprise of 16.9% of the entire value of manufacturing shipment of Japan and manufacturing industry comprises of 36.3% of combined shipments (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, 2010). Figure 1: Major Manufacturing Sec tor in Value Terms Source: (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, 2010). Japanese computer manufacturers (JCMs) play a leading role in the technology as well as business sector of Japan. As a core competence, JCMs have absorbed and mastered expert system technology (Feigenbaum, 1993). 3.0 Socio-Economic Issue and Political Issue Relating to Future Business Growth, GDP Growth and Economic Development Socio-economic issues of Japan have tremendous impact on the economic development of the country. The economic development of the country is facing challenges due to decrease in birth rate as well as aging population. At domestic and global level, socio-economic development can only be achieved by dealing with global warming along with environmental issues. A variety of economic activities are conducted on the assumption that environmental issues need to be properly addressed. Japan produces about 90 percent of global warming gases that originate from sources of energy. Japan has i ncorporated an approach to the issues of energy as well as global warming and they are responding to waste management issues by means of â€Å"3 Rs† (reduce, reuse and recycle). On the supply side, a point of competitiveness suitable for an advanced industrial economy is essential to achieve economic development in Japan. The government is assisting the efforts of companies to

Organizational Systems and Quality Leadership Essay Example for Free

Organizational Systems and Quality Leadership Essay Nursing-sensitive indicators are defined by the American Nurses Association as indicators that â€Å"reflect the structure, process and outcomes of nursing care. The structure of nursing care is indicated by the supply of nursing staff, the skill level of the nursing staff, and the education/certification of nursing staff† (ANA, 2015). These indicators are outcomes that increase the quality and safety in patient care. Some indicators are patient falls, surgical complications such as infection and pulmonary failure, restraint prevalence, patient satisfaction, nurse satisfaction and staffing, complications such as urinary tract infections and pressure ulcers. The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) provides a guideline for nurses and nurse managers for direction in patient care and how to use patient acuity, patient needs, and referral indicators to provide good, safe, quality patient care. Nursing-sensitive indicators that could be identified as possible interference with patient care in Mr. J’s case are his being drowsy from pain medications, his mild dementia diagnosis, his being restrained, and his cultural and religious values preferences. Mr. J is said to answer simple questions but with the diagnosis of mild dementia and the pain medication given, any information given by Mr. J may not be accurate. The nurses and staff should have recognized this immediately and gotten with a caregiver or family who knows Mr. J to ask healthcare questions so staff could establish care appropriately from that information. The reason the patient is being restrained is never revealed but patients should never be restrained to the bed. There are more useful and humane ways to monitor a patient who may be at risk for falls with mild dementia such as bed alarm/chair alarm or a sitter. The patient, admitted with a fractured hip and restrained to a bed, is at high risk for pressure ulcers. The CNA should be well educated on the need to turn patients and make sure pressure points are well monitored to prevent skin breakdown. The lack of cultural respect and understanding regarding Mr. J dietary requests as a retired Jewish rabbi are a nursing -sensitive indicator which can lead to patient dissatisfaction, maybe not realized by the patient with mild dementia but certainly by his daughter. The hospital acquiring data on the above indicators of pressure ulcer incidence, prevalence of restraints, patient and family satisfaction could go a long way to advance the quality of patient care throughout the hospital. This hospital is a 65-bed rural hospital but it is the job of every hospital to give the best patient care possible. With a pressure ulcer developing while in the hospital and Medicare not reimbursing for the cost of the care of that ulcer, it is important to make sure for the patients and the financial aspect that these do not happen. The care of a pressure ulcer can take many weeks and be very costly. The development of this in the hospital is uncalled for and does not bring patient satisfaction. I think too often hospitals forget they are treating not just their patients but their families as well. Evidence-based practice could be used to see what could have been done to prevent pressure ulcers, education for the staff on what signs to look for concerning pressu re ulcers as well as education on the laws and when it is appropriate to use restraints on patients. Care of the patient should always be on the individual needs and cultural practice of the patients. As the nursing shift supervisor, I see several issues that need to be addressed. I would first ask who restrained this patient and why they felt this was needed. Evidence-based practice shows us that restraints are usually more dangerous to the patient than not being restrained. Restraints are to be used only in an emergency. In our book it states, â€Å"Restraint of any kind is a form of imprisonment, and the reasonable and prudent nurse will closely adhere to all laws, rules, and policies pertaining to the use of restraints† (Cherry, 2008). Furthermore, restraint† (Cherry, 2008). Policy and procedure needs to be addressed hospital wide with education and clear instructions given to prevent this in the future. The supervisor should not have ignored the dietary error nor told her staff to â€Å"keep it quiet.† â€Å"Each culture has a value system that dictates behavior directly or indirectly by setting norms and teaching that those norms are right. Health beliefs and practices tend to reflect a cultures value system. Nurses must understand the patients value system to foster health promotion (Cherry, 2008).† As nurses, we must recognize and respect the cultures and beliefs of our patients. This hospital may have a small population of Jewish residents but what hospital can afford to lose patients to a hospital 20 miles away? There needs to be education from administration down on how to value each culture and how we as healthcare members must understand the different values to promote health. Education on the ability of practicing the health beliefs and practices of each patient can and will help the patient get better. I think we get into the mind-set that we are healthcare providers and people have to come to us, they need us, but what some don’t understand is we are a business as well. We need to respect our patients and put our patients first. They can go somewhere else. Someone else out there wants their business, wants to show them what kind of quality care they can receive, and will show them just that. REFERENCES Cherry, B., Jacob, S. (2008). CHAPTER 8 Legal Issues in Nursing and Health Care. In Contemporary Nursing: Issues, Trends Management (5th ed., p. 185, p. 222). St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby/Elsevier. Nursing-Sensitive Indicators. (2015, January 1). Retrieved April 25, 2015, from http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ThePracticeofProfessionalNursing/PatientSafetyQuality/Research-Measurement/The-National-Database/Nursing-Sensitive-Indicators_1.aspx

Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods And Procurement

Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods And Procurement The term of procurement method is frequently complex network of relationships which are formed between clients, consultants and construction companies, to enable a building project to be realized. Quantity Surveyors know how to provide a full Procurement solution at the inspection stage. There are essential clients requirements at inspection stage such as; Advice on procurement method, Contractual advice, Contractor selection, Preparation of tender and contract documentation, Forms of contract, etc. Particularly on the construction project it is vitally important to arrangement of the right method of procuring the construction works. There are different types of procurement arrangements and options exist in the construction industry Such as; Traditional (Design-bid-build), Design and Build, Management Contracting, Construction Management, Design and Manage, etc. ADR typically refers to processes and techniques of resolving disputes that fall outside of the judicial process (HG.org Worldwide Legal Directories) ADR is takes few variety forms as Negotiation, Mini-trial, Mediation, Conciliation, Mutual fact-finding, Expert Determination, Private judging, Dispute resolution boards, etc. INTRODUCTION This report emphasize for identifying critical phases of the Construction procurement and Alternative dispute resolution methods Therefore, especially highlight concerning significant phases of procurement and disputes. And also critically discuss key role of Quantity Surveyor for Disputes resolution and opinions to improve the procurement methods. MAIN BODY DISCUSSION Explain the quantity surveyors role in the various needs of client for selection of procurement at inception stage of the construction project. What is the Procurement method of Construction Project? The term of procurement method is frequently complex network of relationships which are formed between clients, consultants and construction companies, to enable a building project to be realized. It is important to discriminate the contractual relationships from managerial links, and in complex modern procurement systems. (Which Contract? 4th edition by Sarah Lupton, Stanley Cox and Hugh Clamp) Clients Requirements at the Inspection Stage Quantity Surveyors know how to provide a full Procurement solution at the inspection stage of project for all clients, such as Main Contractors, Private Public Clients. Whatever level of construction procurement is required; Quantity Surveyors have the knowledge and experience to guide clients toward a successful construction project. Hence as identified essential clients requirements at inspection stage those can be specify as follows; Advice on the most appropriate procurement method for the project, Contractual advice, Contractor selection advice, Preparation of tender and contract documentation (bills of quantities schedules of rates), Forms of contract, Reviewing tender documents (drawings and specifications). Quantity Surveyor Role based on Client requirements at for select the Procurement methods Quantity surveyors have an important role to perform in building procurement selection at the inspection stage based on client requirements because choosing the right procurement method is vital to the success of a building project. Some experience clients who may have their own professional team and an effective procurement policy and inexperience client have little or no knowledge of procurement methods; hence they require extensive professional advice at the inspection stage. Below mentioned are the vital important roles as identified. Advice on the most appropriate procurement method: as a specialty of construction Contracts, Quantity Surveyor has to advice for select a suitable procurement methods based on client requirement. Since some clients need different type of procurement methods according to their project scope. Contractual advice: as an important part of contract at the initial stage of project, required preparing an agreement to obtain clear understand and less disputes until finish the project. Hence Quantity Surveyor involves selecting and advising proper suitable contract agreement for the project as per client requirements. Advice for Contractor selection: selection of suitable contractor is complex process within role of Quantity Surveyor, because project success is depend on which selected contract organization. Hence Quantity Surveyor involves at the project inspection stage considering client needs for select a reputed contractor according to the standards procedures. Preparation of tender and contract documentation: Quantity Surveyor involves directly for preparation of calling tenders and documentations, such as, Company guarantee, Sectional Completion, Limitation of Contractors Liability, Price Adjustment for Inflation , Bonus for early Completion, Delay Damages , Changes in Law, Condition of contract, Additional Conditions, Bills of quantities schedules of rates, etc. Forms of contract: Quantity Surveyor involves selecting suitable form of contract expelling having advantage to the project when select most suitable form of contract according to the considering client requirement. One of those as JCT forms FIDIC form, NEC form, ICTAD form of contract in Sri Lanka. Reviewing tender documents: Quantity Surveyor involve to review drawings and specifications for tenders process, also tender evaluation based on predetermined estimate and preparing final report for tender award. Analyze the different type of procurement arrangement (process of conducting with advantages and disadvantages). Particularly on the construction project it is vitally important to arrangement of the right method of procuring the construction works. Not only is it important to choose the right contractor but it is vital that the contract documentation and form of contract is appropriate to the project. In basic terms Procurement is the process used to obtain construction projects. It involves the selection of a contractual framework that clearly identifies the structure of responsibilities and authorities for participants within the building process. There are different types of procurement arrangements and options exist in the construction industry as follows; Traditional (Design-bid-build) Design and Build Management Contracting Construction Management Design and Manage Traditional (Design-bid-build) Generally Traditional methods can be described under few forms procuring process as follows; Cost Reimbursed Contract Cost plus percentage Cost plus Fixed fee Cost plus Targets Lump Sum Contract Measure and pay contracts Engineers Main Contractor CLIENT Cost Consultant / Quantity Surveyor Nominated Sub-Contractor Domestic Sub-Contractor Consultant The client who is appoints an Architect as initial appointment to the project under this method, subsequently the architect appoint his design team and other consultants as requires to the project. And also the design team provides advice to the client until completion of project execution. Furthermore understand of Contractual relationship shows by below given chart. (Refer to diagram 01) Diagram 01- Contractual relationship Cost Reimbursed Contract Introduction This method is not constructive for any client due to absence of tender sum or final predicted final cost. Hence cost reimbursed contract also often provide some incentive to contractors to control costs. This method generally used only for following situations; Emergency projects, when the correct scope is unavailable where payments will be paying day work basis etc. Cost plus percentage: The contractor paid for cost of labour, material, plant and subcontractors overheads profit. And Profit directly subsists with contractors expenditures. Hence this is not constructive for clients. Cost plus Fixed fee: Profits of Contractors are pre-determined and agree with both client and contractor under this method before the start of work. Also contractor will try to control the project cost by reducing his management costs etc. Lump Sum Contract This method generally both contractor and client agree for a fix amount before the commencement of the project. The contractor is responsible to carrying out works according to the contract documents referring to the agreed cost. Further lump sum contract obtain two forms as with Quantities and without Quantities. Measure and pay contracts Particularly the Contractor is paid for actual work done according to the contract documents. There are several types of methods under this process, based on provide Drawing and Specification, Performance specifications, Schedule of rates, Bill of quantities, Bill of Approximate quantities, etc. Advantages of Traditional Method The total cost of the project Client is familiar with early, Tender price is little, High tender quality and superlative tender competition, Allow to design changes, Assist the cost management process. Disadvantages of Traditional Method Acquire additional time to start work execution from inception, Risk of design mistake occur to project delay, Lack of participation of contractor with design process. Design and Build Employ of a contractor is directly by Client instead of appointing an architect to a project under this method. Hence the Contractor is responsible for both designing and execution of the project. Also appoint a design team for develop the design using tender process by Clint. The contractor is invited by the client to develop and build the design which is done by the clients consultant under this form. (Refer to diagram 02) Design and build Contractor Client Nominated Sub-Contractor Domestic Sub-Contractor Cost Consultant / Quantity Surveyor Architect Consultants Licensees Diagram 02- Contractual relationship Advantages Contractor cant make any charge on client for design errors, High level of price certainty exists, Reduced project duration and enhanced degree of buildability, Not necessary to appoint employees other than the Contractor. Disadvantages Difficult Cost management and comparison of tenders, The building may aesthetically less acceptable if the constructors organization is smaller or less experienced team, Less knowledge about the value for money client has. Management Contracting Architect Engineering Consultants CLIENT Quantity Surveyor Trade Contractor Management Contractor Trade Contractor Trade Contractor In this method, Contractor employs by the client for mange the whole project by considering past experiences. The management contractor not doing any construction works himself. Generally distributes work packages to sub-contractors and manages them. Also paid by the client for management fee and also any other additional costs for services if has to provide before or during the construction period. (Refer to diagram 03) Diagram 03- Contractual relationship Advantages Contractor work under clients team, therefore it influence to identify clients requirements. Design team can use Contractors knowledge and management experiences for design requirements. Work is able to start early once the design of each work package is completed and also reduce project duration. Disadvantages Final cost of the project available only after the completion of the last work package only. The client would have risk on cost which can increase due to design errors. Construction Management This is similar to the management contracting but deferent is each trade contractor has direct contract with the client. The client is appointing a construction manager either consultant or contractor for organize and plan construction work. Also there is responsibility of appointing a design team as client needs. Advantages Every trade contractor have direct contract with the client therefore it is easy to redress delays. Easy to avoid or minimize practical troubles due to close relationship between construction manager and design team. Work is able to start early once the design of each work package is completed. Construction works and Project management integrated directly. Disadvantages Financial commitment difficult to identify to the client until the final work package is signed. The client has to deal with another consultant and contractors instead of main contractor more. Design and manage Designer Work Sub-Contractor Scope designer CLIENT Design Manage Contractor This method also similar to the management contracting and however the major difference is additional design responsibility to the management contractor. The form of procurement of this type of contract shows similarities to the design and build contracts but extend of the single point design responsibility. (Refer to diagram 04) Diagram 04- Contractual relationship Advantages Design team can use project managers knowledge and management experiences. Work is able to start early once the design of each work package is completed. Practical problems possible to minimize or avoid and also reduce the project duration. Explain your view on the construction procurement and suggestion to improve the effectiveness. Suggestions to improvement of Traditional method Need to be avoiding design errors and project delays by involvement of a knowledgeable independent professional body at the inception of the project. Carryout the tendering process separately for each trade package once it is completed and start execution accordingly for reduce the time duration. Suggestions to improvement of Design and Build method Client can check contractors recourses to make sure the capability of the firm to execute his project It is possible to develop the design by a 3rd party to makes sure better value for money. Briefly explain each ADR methods with advantages and disadvantages in contract. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Introduction ADR typically refers to processes and techniques of resolving disputes that fall outside of the judicial process (HG.org Worldwide Legal Directories) Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is originated in the USA, was adopted in Britain in the 1980s and is now practiced worldwideà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Page123, Quantity Surveying Construction Management, 2012) Goodwill between both parties is very important to achieve good results from ADR applications without wasting time and recourses with Arbitration or litigation. General advantages of ADR applications can review as Private, Quick, Economic, etc. ADR is takes few variety forms as follows. (Page123, Quantity Surveying Construction Management, 2012) Negotiation Mini-trial Mediation Conciliation Mutual fact-finding Expert Determination Private judging Dispute resolution boards Negotiation In negotiation participation is voluntary and there is no third party who facilitates the resolution process or imposes a resolution. There are no limits for arguments. Advantages:- All Parties can find their own judgments and Time and money saving. Fully confidential if third person not involving with the process. Disadvantages:- This might effect to the relationship of the both parties due to unnecessary arguments. Mini-trial Mini-Trial involves the top decision makers of the corporations having a dispute by engaging them in the presentation of their respective cases and the subsequent negotiating process. A mini-trial is generally not a binding method unless the parties agree otherwise. Advantages:- Independent advisor and facilitator is available. Time and money saving is exist. Unfriendliness is reduced. This method is not a trial at all and maintained confidentiality. The business relationship of the both parties is maintained Disadvantages:- Resolution if fail, parties can go to the court. Process will not succeed if the parties have any doubt on his impartiality and independence. Any party at any point of time, there is a possible to withdraw. Not much cost effective all the time. Mediation Mediation a forum in which a neutral third party facilitates communication between parties to promote settlement. A mediator may not impose his or her own judgment on the issues for that of the parties. Advantages:- Avoid unfriendliness and Less cost than go to the courts. Mediators knowledge helps to the parties guide clear future disputes. Disadvantages:- When parties week and strong, Possible to make agreement it may be lopsided to favor of the more prominent side. Conciliation One party invites to other party to resolve disputes trough Conciliation and the process will commence once the invitation is accepted. This process newer commence if other party rejects the invitation. If both party fail the process they has to go to the arbitration to resolve disputes. Advantages:- Both parties attempt to become for negotiation as of the great respect of the neutral person and also it is faster than negotiation. Disadvantages:- Less confidential due to involvement of conciliator. Expenses are higher. No any binding between both parties. Mutual fact-finding All the parties strongly engage and make a report with or without assistance of a mutual expert. The parties can solve their disputes trough the report and also this report is possible to use as a trial, as well as can give as evidence to the court or arbitration. Dispute resolution boards In the background of construction contracts, a DRB include a board of one or three persons, independent of the contracting parties, engaged to carry out an overview role of the execution of the project. Its primary function is to assist the parties to avoid disputes if possible or if not, to assist them to a quick, cost-effective and avoid the need for arbitration or litigation. (Dr Donald Charrett, Barrister, Arbitrator and Mediator Owen Dixon Chambers East, Melbourne) Advantages The panel acts realistically as third person. The Panel members are industrial experts. Early responses save time and money. Disadvantages:- Select and appoint of members are complicate process. Not retain confidentiality. Expert determination This is a private alternative to court litigation for the resolution of disputes. It is one of a number of ADR  methods available including arbitration,  mediation and adjudication. (Daniel Djanogly Forensic Accountants Chartered Arbitrators) Advantages Cheaper than running a case to trial. Allow both parties a greater knowledge of how the factual evidence is likely to be decided if the case goes to trial. Disadvantages The expert has no power to force his findings on the parties. One party is probable to have to sure the other to implement determination of the expert. Private judging Private Judging is a special type of decisional process, based on arbitration.    A retired judge is appointed by parties in dispute to preside over a private trial. Advantages It offers convenience and flexible to all parties. The flexibility of this method ownership and control of the litigation to the dispute. It is speedy process confidentially Disadvantages This is some considerably costly method in ADR The parties are unable to evaluate the quality of the judgment which given under this method. The parties entered into the contract they may face to various disputes. Discuss the role of the quantity surveyors input, from the inception to completion of the project. Role of the quantity surveyors for Disputes Resolution To be identified and scheduled might be occurred disputes at the early stage. Involving and discuss with line managers regarding the identified disputes. Advice to the client for selecting an accurate method of dispute resolution. As an initial action try to be settle by negotiation action to avoid wasting time and money. If negotiation is unsuccessful, to be advised to the senior management for go to the ADR methods by avoiding go to the Arbitration or Litigation. Perform to evaluate and advise to select the correct method from available in ADR process. Collects and prepares all necessary supporting documents required to the ADR process. Attending for relevant meetings and review the issues of meeting CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDATION Basically Construction project disputes are occurred due to selection of inappropriate procurement applications for the project. Hence selection of suitable procurement methods at project inspection stage is a very important responsibility within role of Quantity Surveyor. I recommend every Quantity Surveyor should develop their knowledge in-field of Construction procurement application and disputes resolution methods in practically.

The Comitatus Relationship in Beowulf Essay -- Epic of Beowulf Essays

Throughout history rulers have always been protective of their kingdoms. In hopes of always being in control of their territory, rulers develop special relationships with the people to protect them. This relationship was usually achieved by of instilling fear into the minds of their warriors, or instilling respect between each other. In the story Beowulf the relationship between the ruler and his thanes is that of honor, friendship, and respect. In Anglo Saxon stories, the relationship between the ruler and his thanes is known as comitatus. The comitatus relationship requires that "the thane swear to defend a lord to their death, while he provides them with the protection and a share of his wealth and weapons." This sounds like a typical warrior defending master relationship, but the relationship between a lord and his thanes is far more complex than that. Along with the thane and lord each providing services for the other, there is also a great deal of camaraderie between the thanes and their lord: "Some of the native terms used for this group in Beowulf may suggest something of ...

Moving to America

MOVING TO AMERICA Do you know moving could be a very traumatic and scary experience for a child? When my mom decided to leave Trinidad and Tobago to pursue her Master degree, I don’t think she realized the impact it would have on me, knowing that you are moving to a whole different country is a big pill to swallow at the age of 14 years old. Me and my mom was having dinner when she broke the news that we were moving to America I remembered that day like it was yesterday I felt like my heart had hit the floor I had mix emotions I was just numb I didn’t know if to be happy, sad or angry.After the news was broken to me everything that I loved flashed before my eyes my friends and my family. I was in high school at the time of our planning to move so I knew I would have to make new friends which is very hard for me because am very shy and soft spoken. But I knew in my heart my mom was making the move for us to better herself and to provide a better life for me and my brothe r. Leaving my country where I grew up and where all my family and friends were really saddened me.Trinidad and Tobago is two islands that makes up one country I lived in Trinidad is the place I call home. It’s a beautiful island in the Caribbean its hot all year round and it only has two seasons the rainy season and the dry season. I absolutely enjoy the weather but at times the heat can be very scorching and unbearable, the beaches are amazing white sands blue waters I remember when my best friend and I would go to the beach on Sundays and spend the whole day. So the day before I left which was a Thursday, which meant I had school.My teacher gave a farewell speech telling the class I was leaving and today would be my last day my Best friend Adanna broke into to tears so did I was an emotional wreck because we have been friends since age 5 we did everything together. So when class was over we walk to the bus hugging each other and cherishing our last moments together and then she told me she have a present for me. When I opened it was a letter that consist 10 pages and a framed picture of me and her at age 8, I was so grateful that she gave that to me I told I would keep it close to my heart. At 14 years we jetted to Colorado the flight took about 8 hours to arrive.I arrived in Colorado my body was in shocked of how cold it was coming from a country that is warm it was snowing heavily. I was so excited because I have always dreamt of wanting to see snow and on the first day of my arrival to America I saw snow I just thought to myself how lucky am I, I just smiled to myself. So a taxi cab came to pick us up at the Denver International Airport my new home was located in Colorado Springs it was an hour and a half away. On our way to Colorado Springs I couldn’t see the landscape or anything because everywhere was covered in snow so I just laid back and enjoyed the ride.When we arrived at our new home I fell in love with our new townhouse home it was new, hardwood floors, a tall ceiling it was just marvelous. My first night in my new home, a new country and a new neighborhood felt pretty weird I felt so out of place like I didn’t belong. I woke up the next morning feeling pretty lonely the house was quiet it was just not what am use to because back home in Trinidad we were living in a house with my grandparents and my other family members like my cousins and aunts so the house was always noisy.My mom came in to my room to tell me to get ready we are going grocery shopping I was a little excited I must say just to be out. So we went to the grocery I was so amaze on how big it was and all the different selections of foods items there was to choose from. After grocery shopping, my mom stopped at her school Colorado Technical University to do some finishing for her registration to start to attend school for the Spring Semester. The following day I had to register for school because it was nearing close for the spring school t erm to start so we went to the North Middle School to sign me up.I so nervous when I enter the doors of North Middle School I was so overwhelmed and I hadn’t even started school as yet it was just to register me. So January 9th rolled around that was the beginning of school it was the most traumatic and scary experience ever so many thoughts were running through my mind would I make friends, would any of the students laugh at my accent when I speak. The diversity of the students at the school with all different culture backgrounds was a lot to take in but I was eager to learn about them.I went to my first class it was my Algebra class my teacher was Mr. Brice, seeing as it was the first day of school he suggested that we stand up and introduce ourselves to the class. Everyone stood up and introduce there selves and then it was my turn I started sweating bullets I was so nervous so I stand and these was my exact words â€Å"Hi am Ariane and am from Trinidad† one the cla ssmate laughed at me I felt so hurt I wanted to cry right then and there but I had to hold my composer.When the bell rang for the class to be over there was this one girl her name was Desiree came up to me and told me my accent was cool and she liked it. We became great friends from then so my school experience wasn’t as bad as I thought. When I got home from my first day of school, I laid on my bed thought to myself today wasn’t a bad day at all I can get use to this. But then I started to think about back home and I felt so empty and lonely and I missed everything my family and best friend.After spending 7 years in Colorado, my mom completed her degree and got an incredible job opportunity she was ecstatic I was to, then she told me we had to talk every time she said we have to talk I knew there was some bad or disappointing news she was going to tell me so I took a deep breath and asked â€Å"What is it mom? † she replied and said â€Å"We will be moving to New Jersey† I screamed out in excitement my mom was shocked at my reaction and she had a puzzling look on her face. She asked me â€Å"Aren’t you sad you are leaving Colorado† because she knew how sad I was when we left Trinidad I quickly responded â€Å"No†.I was excited to leave Colorado although I did develop a friendship with Desiree, I wanted to be close to family and New Jersey was the place for me because I have lots and cousins and aunts there. Moving to a whole different country has made me into a stronger person and has broadened my horizon to different cultures, atmosphere and opportunities. It also allows me to see and experience life in a new and different way. My mom has taught me that once I put my mind to anything I can do it. Because she went to Colorado without knowing anybody there and we conquered it together. Test: â€Å"Study Guide Algebra†

Free Essays on A Critical Examination Of Valls’ Interpretation Of Just War Theory

A Critical Examination of Valls’ Interpretation of Just War Theory In light of recent events and the current â€Å"war on terrorism† it seems critical to move away from political rhetoric and approach the issue with as much reasonable objectivity as possible. The central question that Andrew Valls attempts to answer is weather terrorism can be justified. He argues that it can in some cases when measured against just war theory. Just war theory sets moral limits on the waging of war while justifying its legitimacy. I am in agreement with his conclusion but my defense of his argument relies on acceptance of his definition of terrorism, which seems to me rather broad. Valls defines terrorism as political violence done to persons or property committed by nonstate actors. It must be politically motivated for any other form of violence is considered crime and subject to domestic laws. He adds violence against property to include attacks that would be considered terrorism even though they do not harm people. An example of this would be the bombing of an abortion clinic. When he limits the violence to nonstate actors, he doesn’t deny the existence of state sponsored terrorism. He states that this type of violence is a matter of domestic justice, and in cases outside its borders, just war theory can be applied. With this definition he attempts to avoid two difficulties. He does not prejudge the issue by characterizing terrorism as something intrinsically wrong, which is what Walzer seems to do. How can there be serious discussion about a normative issue if it is already defined as unjustifiable? He also attempts to avoid making his definition stipulative. I would argue that Valls’ definition is too broad with respect to his contention that it is nonessential to include fear or intimidation as a deliberate strategy of terrorism. Of course if this provision were added, it would weaken his argument by disqualifying many case... Free Essays on A Critical Examination Of Valls’ Interpretation Of Just War Theory Free Essays on A Critical Examination Of Valls’ Interpretation Of Just War Theory A Critical Examination of Valls’ Interpretation of Just War Theory In light of recent events and the current â€Å"war on terrorism† it seems critical to move away from political rhetoric and approach the issue with as much reasonable objectivity as possible. The central question that Andrew Valls attempts to answer is weather terrorism can be justified. He argues that it can in some cases when measured against just war theory. Just war theory sets moral limits on the waging of war while justifying its legitimacy. I am in agreement with his conclusion but my defense of his argument relies on acceptance of his definition of terrorism, which seems to me rather broad. Valls defines terrorism as political violence done to persons or property committed by nonstate actors. It must be politically motivated for any other form of violence is considered crime and subject to domestic laws. He adds violence against property to include attacks that would be considered terrorism even though they do not harm people. An example of this would be the bombing of an abortion clinic. When he limits the violence to nonstate actors, he doesn’t deny the existence of state sponsored terrorism. He states that this type of violence is a matter of domestic justice, and in cases outside its borders, just war theory can be applied. With this definition he attempts to avoid two difficulties. He does not prejudge the issue by characterizing terrorism as something intrinsically wrong, which is what Walzer seems to do. How can there be serious discussion about a normative issue if it is already defined as unjustifiable? He also attempts to avoid making his definition stipulative. I would argue that Valls’ definition is too broad with respect to his contention that it is nonessential to include fear or intimidation as a deliberate strategy of terrorism. Of course if this provision were added, it would weaken his argument by disqualifying many case...

Lying Explored in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof essays

Lying Explored in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof essays "Mendacity is a system that we live in. Liquor is one way out and death's the other."[1] This quote by Tennessee Williams is expressed throughout one of his best-known works, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and the theme of mendacity permeates the entire play. Mendacity is a term that refers to lies, hypocrisy and deception that the Pollitt family uses to escape from falsehood. The overburdened circumstances of the family crisis reveal hidden truths that were being held by the characters in the play. Brick drinks in order to escape mendacity and lies, the Pollitt family, except Brick lies to Big Daddy about his terminal cancer and Big Daddy himself is Brick drinks in order to escape mendacity and lies. The alcohol helps him cope with issues he has bottled up inside and eases the pain he inflicts on himself by denying the nature of his relationship with Skipper and his culpability in Skippers self-destruction and death. Brick confesses to Maggie that alcohol is the only way he can obtain peace of mind and says, "The click in my head when I've had enough of this stuff to make me peaceful... (1.33)" Brick feels responsible for Skipper's suicide because he rejected him after he confessed his feelings for Brick. During his first real discussion with Big Daddy, Brick spits out his disgust with mendacity. He is repulsed with the fake life he has been living when his friendship with recently deceased Skipper was misinterpreted as "dirty". However, Big Daddy states that Brick's disgust with mendacity is really disgust with Uh-hu. Anyhow now!-we have tracked down the lie with which you're disgusted and which you are drinking to kill your disgust with, Brick. You been passing the buck. This disgust with mendacity is disgust with yourself. You!-dug the grave of your friend and kicked him in it!- before you'd face truth with him! (2.127) Big Daddy genuinely lov...

The 6 Elements That Are Liquid at Room Temperature

The 6 Elements That Are Liquid at Room Temperature There are two elements that are liquid at the temperature technically designated room temperature or 298 K (25 °C) and a total of six elements that can be liquids at actual room temperatures and pressures. Elements That Are  Liquid at 25 °C Room temperature is a loosely defined term that can mean anywhere from 20 °C to 29 °C. For science, its usually considered to be either 20 °C or 25 °C. At this temperature and ordinary pressure, only two elements are liquids: BromineMercury Bromine (symbol Br and atomic number 35) is a reddish-brown liquid,  with a melting point  of 265.9 K. Mercury (symbol Hg and atomic number 80) is a toxic shiny silvery metal, with a melting point of 234.32 K. Elements That Become Liquid 25 °C-40 °C When the temperature is slightly warmer, there are a few other elements found as liquids at normal pressure: FranciumCesiumGalliumRubidium These four elements all melt at temperatures slightly higher than room temperature. Francium (symbol Fr and atomic number 87), a radioactive and reactive metal, melts around 300 K. Francium is the most electropositive of all the elements. Although its melting point is known, there is so little of this element in existence that its unlikely youll ever see a picture of this element in the liquid form. Cesium (symbol Cs and atomic number 55), a soft metal that violently reacts with water, melts at 301.59 K. The low melting point and softness of francium and cesium are a consequence of the size of their atoms. In fact, cesium atoms are larger than those of any other element. Gallium (symbol Ga and atomic number 31), a grayish metal, melts at 303.3 K. Gallium can be melted by body temperature, as in a gloved hand. This element displays low toxicity, so its available online and may be used safely for science experiments. In addition to melting it in your hand, it can be substituted for mercury in the beating heart experiment and can be used to make spoons that vanish when used to stir hot liquids. Rubidium (symbol Rb and atomic number 37) is a soft, silvery-white reactive metal, with a melting point of 312.46 K. Rubidium spontaneously ignites to form rubidium oxide. Like cesium, rubidium reacts violently with water. Other Liquid Elements That state of matter of an element may be predicted based on its phase diagram. While temperature is an easily controlled factor, manipulating pressure is another way to cause a phase change. When pressure is controlled, other pure elements may be found at room temperature. An example is the halogen element chlorine.

Asian American History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Asian American History - Essay Example The immigrants were the typical Korean of who were used to speaking the Korean languages in their country. When they came to the United States, the language obstacle became the main challenge that the first Korean immigrants experienced in their new country . As much as they were being taught English as foreign language in their country, they were only allowed to remember the terminologies and the grammatical rules in the language, this did not give them the opportunity to be able to put into practice, listen in and converse with any of the native English speaker so as to enable them to develop their skills in the English language . With this language hurdle among the immigrants, they could not be able to get the high level opportunities in the job market and thus it left them with the low level positions in the workplaces as the farm workers and even stone diggers. This was because, they could not correspond to the American employers or the service providers effectively to pass their information across to be understood well enough by their employers, and because of this, the employers ended up placing them at the low level where it needs no much communication skills to the managerial section . As much as the Koreans immigrants were not good in the languages in the United States, they could not be able to attend the classes offered to them for the purpose of improving their communication skills. This was because, they were too busy on their daily duties of farming and any other activities.

Leadership in Clinical Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Leadership in Clinical Practice - Essay Example Good leaders can develop their staff through education, training, experience, and self-study. Symptoms of a good leader are that they always keep on working and try to improve their leadership skills. Managers should be well versed and experience enough to guide the staff in relation to the convertibility of their academic knowledge in practical performance. In an emergency situation, mostly in clinics, there is a requirement of strong management and executive skills. This means not only the doctors, all other staff in a clinic should be efficient enough to deal with the situation. Managers should work for the development of staff members. Training and education programs should be implemented for staff. The evaluation process should be conducted in order to control and monitor the activities of members. Incentives, bonus and better compensation plans should be enforced to keep the staff members motivated towards the organization. Communication and leadership can also lead to the tran sformation of an organization. Culture and structure of a clinic should be flexible, so that staff members can share their preferences and knowledge with the managers. Therefore, communication and leadership are the main pillars for the success of clinics (Butler Gillian & Hope Tony, 1996). 1.2 Leadership Leadership is a key factor for an organizations success. It mainly depends on how managers are able to handle the organizational and management structure. A leader should have infinite flexibility. This means one should be able to adopt a leadership style in accordance to a particular situation. Leadership plays a most important role in clinical areas such as leading role of the doctor towards nurses and other staff, similar to that nurse play a lead role in guiding the supporting staff and trainees. These shows at all levels there are different leaders. (Blagg Deborah & Young Susan, 2001). Factors of leadership Mainly there are four factors in leadership, which are present in ever y organization i.e.: Leaders Followers Communication Situation Leader Leaders must have a clear understanding of who they are, what they know and what they can do. Therefore, it is imperative that doctors should have all knowledge in relation to their capabilities so that they can guide nurses and other staff appropriately. Before guiding other people they should know their inner capabilities, strength, and weaknesses. Because it is the nurses who help to identify whether a doctor is successful or not, therefore one will have to satisfy his followers not the boss, as they are the ones who are dependent on a leader. Followers In hospital many people are followers such as nurses, supporting staff, trainees etc. and each person has different styles and nature. Therefore, each one of them requires different leadership process and style. One should know the follower's nature, needs, emotions, and motivation. Communication Leading should be done through two-way communication, most of whic h is nonverbal. But in clinical areas, verbal communication is most important. It plays a vital role in the performance of the staff members. For instance in the case when one sets an example, this communication to people will lead them to perform only the things guided by the leader rather than performing in their own way.

Variance Analysis Case Study Speech or Presentation

Variance Analysis Case Study - Speech or Presentation Example Educate the financial analysts and managers about the relationship between revenue, activities and expense in product line such as OTHER to avoid over budgeting the funds which can lead to poor financial health. The people to be held accountable to provide ideas based on their performance are practitioners who should avoid billing services not performed, falsifying a diagnosis, billing duplicate for a one service performed and misrepresentation procedures. Reinsurance: the main goal here is to offload risk and reward to the re-insurer for stable operating results. This is because the providers who cannot afford reinsurance that might lead to deplete in inadequate capitation payment s must be paid by other providers. Incentives: physicians to be given incentive for the consideration of cost of treatment because under pure capitation, fee per patient is predetermined regardless of the degree of infirmity. This gives physicians an incentive to avoid costly

Art history from 1580-1980 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Art history from 1580-1980 - Essay Example This was 1793 painting of nude man with an appearance a real classical young man. Other paintings before 1800 that show naturalism are Francisco Goya’s paintings named â€Å"And so Was His Grandfather† and â€Å"You who cannot†. Artists highly engaged with the nature from 1580-1980. They did this by spending their time to study nature. They started shifting from religious and supernatural paintings to nature paintings. They engaged with nature in their art by portraying objects in their arts as they appear exactly in reality. This was done based on the artists’ scientific knowledge. There was a strong connection between science and art. Examples of paintings that depict nature include John constable’s â€Å"The Hay Wain† and Joseph Mallord’s â€Å"Snowstorm: Hannibal and Army† (Rothko & Rothko 65). Other nature paintings include Theodore Gericault’s â€Å"The Raft of Medusa† and William Blake’s â€Å"Dante Running from The Three Beasts†. All these were painted after 1800. Nature was depicted in the renaissance arts in various forms. For instance, it was presented in paintings, sculptures and music during that period. Naturalism was significant to many artists and movements. For instance, it was significant to humanisms movement. During the renaissance period the society had started to focus more on human values than religious values. As such, artists painted humans in the natural world to show their position on earth. Nature was also significant to naturalism movement where artists were recognized based on how well their represented nature in their paintings. Nature became a source idea for many artists. They got their ideas by simply studying or observing it (Rothko & Rothko

Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Leadership - Essay Example Based on this particular aspect, graduate schools have become increasingly focused on developing the leadership qualities of the students who are to be the upcoming employee generation in the global workplace (Jackson, 2009). Nevertheless, as leadership is termed to be more of an art rather than a science, it is essential to identify the personal limitations and development needs which should be managed accordingly to exemplify superior leadership capabilities in the practical scenario (Goleman, 2012). Based on these aspects, the discussion henceforth will aim at describing four skills area which I need to develop to grow as an effective leader in future. The description will be followed by a development plan which I think might be beneficial in my overall development as a leader. Four Skill Areas to Work On It is quite necessary to understand the concept of leadership and obtain a generalised view regarding the qualities that should be possessed by a leader prior to the elaboration and justification of the skills areas which I need to develop in order to become an effective leader. ... It is also related with social and philosophical dimensions of management in accordance with various business and non-business environments. In the words of Lubitz (2008, p.63), â€Å"Leadership is, therefore, never a straightforward task: it involves a set of complex skills whose employment is contingent on the level at which leadership is practiced, its place within the chain of task execution, and the nature of the task at hand.† Thus, it can be affirmed that leadership is a situational phenomenon where individual skills play a major role in depicting the effectiveness of such practices (DeRue & Ashford, 2010). From a generalised point of view, leaders in the contemporary context are required to possess various skills which accumulatively intend to enhance the qualities of the professionals and thus reward increasing efficiency (Campbell, Hays, Core, Birch, Bosack, & Clark, 2011). As stated by Klingborg, Moore and Varea-Hammond (2006), leaders in today’s contemporary era should possess organisational skills, learning skills, motivating skills, creative skills, critical thinking abilities as well as forward thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills are expected to augment flexibility among leaders to adapt changes and steer the team towards improvement. Another most significant ability which should be possessed by a 21st century leader is regarded to be the communication skills. As indicated by Decker (2006), effective communication not only assists in developing the team in a consistent manner but also helps to develop a mutual relationship and a stronger influence as well as control over the team performances. After learning about the skills required to be established as an effective

Entreprenuership and Innovation BUS7001 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Entreprenuership and Innovation BUS7001 - Essay Example The question that needs to be asked should therefore centre on how to create a competitive urge over competitors. This is for now, what the present report seeks to achieve by analysing all factors that centre on the product and the market so as to put the product in a better position to penetrate the market (Aldrich and Weiss, 2001). A lot of research will also be done on the product involved so as to establish the key strengths of the product that needs to be built upon and some weaknesses that need to be improved. An assessment of the factors in the marketplace into which you suggest the product could be sold Sale in universities and other educational institutions where students have daily demand for cooking There are several factors on the prevailing market that suggest that the product cold easily be sold. One of such factors has to do with the fact that there are at every point in time, students in various universities and colleges who are in hostels and have regular demand for cooking. These students are not fed by the school and thus have to depend on their own provision for food (Aldrich, 2009). With growing concern for the need to stay healthy in one’s eating habit also, the likelihood that these students will resort to ready-cooked food is also minimal. This therefore means that a lot of these students will have to cook for themselves. Again, considering the fact that there is an ever growing student population in our country, one thing remains clear and that is, the product will certainly have a very large customer base among the students if the university cooking factor is considered critically. Another factor within the university factor that makes the product very viable and suitable for the university population is that students do not have much time for activities like cooking and are therefore always looking for avenues that will make cooking fast and less involving – something that this new product can easily give them (Bender, 2 000). Sale in places where the use of electricity as the source of energy as compared to gas is seen to be cheaper and easily accessible. Another important factor that suggests that the product will easily sell on the marketplace has to do with the every growing concern for the need to use electricity as a preferred source of energy instead of gas. It would be noted that gas has for long remained the major supply of energy for most homes in developed and developing worlds. However, the risks involved are fast being calculated by scientists and other experts. Some of these include pollution, degradation of the environment, greenhouse effect and dangers of causing fire (Birley and Westhead, 2004). With such concerns, the focus has now shifted to the use of electricity. Knowing that the new product is powered by electricity, the company has an advantage and potential in selling the product in places where the use of electricity as the source of energy is regarded as safer and environme ntally friendly option. Even more, electricity continues to be a cheaper source of energy as compared to gas and other forms of energy for powering cooking devices like

Art history from 1580-1980 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Art history from 1580-1980 - Essay Example This was 1793 painting of nude man with an appearance a real classical young man. Other paintings before 1800 that show naturalism are Francisco Goya’s paintings named â€Å"And so Was His Grandfather† and â€Å"You who cannot†. Artists highly engaged with the nature from 1580-1980. They did this by spending their time to study nature. They started shifting from religious and supernatural paintings to nature paintings. They engaged with nature in their art by portraying objects in their arts as they appear exactly in reality. This was done based on the artists’ scientific knowledge. There was a strong connection between science and art. Examples of paintings that depict nature include John constable’s â€Å"The Hay Wain† and Joseph Mallord’s â€Å"Snowstorm: Hannibal and Army† (Rothko & Rothko 65). Other nature paintings include Theodore Gericault’s â€Å"The Raft of Medusa† and William Blake’s â€Å"Dante Running from The Three Beasts†. All these were painted after 1800. Nature was depicted in the renaissance arts in various forms. For instance, it was presented in paintings, sculptures and music during that period. Naturalism was significant to many artists and movements. For instance, it was significant to humanisms movement. During the renaissance period the society had started to focus more on human values than religious values. As such, artists painted humans in the natural world to show their position on earth. Nature was also significant to naturalism movement where artists were recognized based on how well their represented nature in their paintings. Nature became a source idea for many artists. They got their ideas by simply studying or observing it (Rothko & Rothko

Entreprenuership and Innovation BUS7001 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Entreprenuership and Innovation BUS7001 - Essay Example The question that needs to be asked should therefore centre on how to create a competitive urge over competitors. This is for now, what the present report seeks to achieve by analysing all factors that centre on the product and the market so as to put the product in a better position to penetrate the market (Aldrich and Weiss, 2001). A lot of research will also be done on the product involved so as to establish the key strengths of the product that needs to be built upon and some weaknesses that need to be improved. An assessment of the factors in the marketplace into which you suggest the product could be sold Sale in universities and other educational institutions where students have daily demand for cooking There are several factors on the prevailing market that suggest that the product cold easily be sold. One of such factors has to do with the fact that there are at every point in time, students in various universities and colleges who are in hostels and have regular demand for cooking. These students are not fed by the school and thus have to depend on their own provision for food (Aldrich, 2009). With growing concern for the need to stay healthy in one’s eating habit also, the likelihood that these students will resort to ready-cooked food is also minimal. This therefore means that a lot of these students will have to cook for themselves. Again, considering the fact that there is an ever growing student population in our country, one thing remains clear and that is, the product will certainly have a very large customer base among the students if the university cooking factor is considered critically. Another factor within the university factor that makes the product very viable and suitable for the university population is that students do not have much time for activities like cooking and are therefore always looking for avenues that will make cooking fast and less involving – something that this new product can easily give them (Bender, 2 000). Sale in places where the use of electricity as the source of energy as compared to gas is seen to be cheaper and easily accessible. Another important factor that suggests that the product will easily sell on the marketplace has to do with the every growing concern for the need to use electricity as a preferred source of energy instead of gas. It would be noted that gas has for long remained the major supply of energy for most homes in developed and developing worlds. However, the risks involved are fast being calculated by scientists and other experts. Some of these include pollution, degradation of the environment, greenhouse effect and dangers of causing fire (Birley and Westhead, 2004). With such concerns, the focus has now shifted to the use of electricity. Knowing that the new product is powered by electricity, the company has an advantage and potential in selling the product in places where the use of electricity as the source of energy is regarded as safer and environme ntally friendly option. Even more, electricity continues to be a cheaper source of energy as compared to gas and other forms of energy for powering cooking devices like

Ideology of Pakistan Essay Example for Free

Ideology of Pakistan Essay The ideology of Pakistan stems from the instinct of the Muslim community of South Asia to maintain their individuality by resisting all attempts by the Hindu society to absorb it. Muslims of South Asia believe that Islam and Hinduism are not only two religions, but also two social orders that have given birth to two distinct cultures with no similarities. The ideology of Pakistan took shape through an evolutionary process. Historical experience provided the base; with Sir Syed Ahmad Khan began the period of Muslim self-awakening; Allama Iqbal provided the philosophical explanation; Quaid-i-Azam translated it into a political reality; and the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan, by passing Objectives Resolution in March 1949, gave it legal sanction. It was due to the realization of Muslims of South Asia that they are different from the Hindus that they demanded separate electorates. When they realized that their future in a Democratic India dominated by Hindu majority was not safe; they put forward their demand for a separate state. As early as in the beginning of the 11th century, Al-Biruni observed that Hindus differed from the Muslims in all matters and habits. He further elaborated his argument by writing that the Hindus considered Muslims Mlachha, or impure. And they forbid having any connection with them, be it intermarriage or any other bond of relationship. They even avoid sitting, eating and drinking with them, because they feel polluted. Read more:  Political Issues in Pakistan The Ideology of Pakistan has its roots deep in history. The history of South Asia is largely a history of rivalry and conflict between the Hindus and Muslims of the region. Both communities have been living together in the same area since the early 8th century, since the advent of Islam in India. Yet, the two have failed to develop harmonious relations. In the beginning, one could find the Muslims and Hindus struggling for supremacy in the battlefield. Starting with the war between Muhammad bin Qasim and Raja Dahir in 712, armed conflicts between Hindus and Muslims run in thousands. Clashes between Mahmud of Ghazni and Jaypal, Muhammad Ghuri and Prithvi Raj, Babur and Rana Sanga and Aurangzeb and Shivaji are cases in point. When the Hindus of South Asia failed to establish Hindu Padshahi through force, they opted for back door conspiracies. Bhakti Movement, Akbar’s diversion. IDEOLOGY OF PAKISTAN WHAT IS AN IDEOLOGY? †¢ A political ideology is a system of beliefs that explains and justifies a preferred political order, either existing or proposed and offers a strategy (Institution, processes, program) for its attainment. †¢ An ideology offers an interpretation of the past, explanation of the present and a vision of the future †¢ Ideology is a set of beliefs, values and ideals of a group and a nation. It is deeply ingrained in the social consciousness of the people. †¢ It is a set of principles, a framework of action and guidance system that gives order and meaning to life and human action. HOW IDEOLOGY EMERGES †¢ When thinking of a nation or a social group is rejected. †¢ An ideology emerges when people feel strongly that they are being mistreated under an existing order, when their status is threatened by fundamental changes occurring in the society, and when the prevailing ideology no longer satisfies them †¢ STEPS OF IDEOLOGY EVOLUTION o Consciousness o Analysis of current situation o Creating new thinking o Legitimate – De-legitimate o Role of Leadership IMPORTANCE OF IDEOLOGY †¢ It is a motivating force †¢ It provides a common plate form.

Management Control: Purpose and Strategies

Management Control: Purpose and Strategies Controlling is one of the four main functions in management. It is important to managers in order to ensure all planning, organising and leading run as smoothly as desired. If managers are able to ensure that each plan made and every task given to the employees are carried out perfectly, and the results expected is what had been planned, control is not required. Unfortunately, managers are not able to ensure these conditions will run smoothly without the occurrence of any problems since most planning is done by humans and humans are known to be diverse in terms of abilities, motivation and others. In a rapidly changing business environment, not only the expected results must be controlled, planning must also be monitored and controlled. 11.1.1 Definition of Control Management control is a systematic effort to fix or establish the standard of performance through planning objectives, designing information feedback systems, comparing true performance with the fixed standard, determining whether there are any disadvantages or weaknesses and taking suitable actions to ensure all resources within the organisation can be used in the most effective and efficient way in achieving the objective of the organisation. Control is the process of ensuring that organisational activities are running according to plan. This process can be carried out by comparing the true performance with the standard that has been established and taking corrective actions in order to rectify any distortion that does not comply with the standard. The main purpose of control in management is to prepare managers to face future or existing problems before they turn critical. In general, an organisation with a good control mechanism will have the advantage of competing strength compared to organisations without a good control system. The following are several examples of the importance of control for organisations: 11.1.2 Quality Assurance The smooth running of a particular process can be monitored and problems can be avoided by having control. Control is able to stimulate the organisation to monitor and increase the quality of products and services offered. Through the activities related to the control process, members of the organisation will always be driven to act according to the plans that have been established. 11.1.3 Preparation to Face Changes Change cannot be avoided. Change in environmental factors such as markets, competitors, technology and legislation makes the control process important for managers in responding towards opportunities and threats. Control helps the organisation to suit its products to the needs and wants of consumers in the market. 11.1.4 Steps in the Control Process A control process has three basic needs: fixing of standards to be used in measuring the level of growth; monitoring decisions and comparing it to the standards, that is, the comparison of the organisationà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s true performance with the planned performance; and finally, taking corrective actions in rectifying any disadvantages and weaknesses that occurred in achieving the performance that has already been set. Establishing Standards Standard is the base for comparison to measure the level of performance of a company in order to find out whether the company is compliant. Standard is the point of reference in making comparisons to another value. Standard can be defined as what is required out of a particular job or an individual. In management control, standards are usually derived from the objectives. Standards should be easy to be measured and interpreted. A specific objective that can be measured makes it more suitable to be used as a standard. If this standard is not clearly and specifically stated, it may be interpreted in a different way and will then raise various difficulties that can affect the goals of the organisation. In general, there are three types of standards: physical standard such as quantity of products and services, number of customers and quality of products and services; financial standard which is stated in the form of money, and this includes labour cost, sales cost, material cost, sales revenue, profit margin and others; and lastly, time standard which includes the performance rate of a particular task or the time period required to complete a particular task. Measuring Performance and Making Comparisons Performance measurement is a type of control. Actual results need to be monitored to ensure that output produced is according to the specific standard. The main purpose of performance monitoring is to gather data and detect deviation and problem areas. Measurement has no meaning if it is not compared to the standard. The next step is performing the comparison of standards. Comparison of standard is a process where comparison is made between the true performances with the standard set. This step is important because it allows any deviation or distortion to be detected and corrective actions can be taken in order to achieve the goals that have been set. Corrective Actions It is often found that managers establish standards and monitor decisions but do not take suitable actions. The first and second steps in control will be meaningless if corrective actions are not taken. Before taking any steps in correcting, detailed analysis must be carried out in order to find out the factors that caused the particular deviation. This corrective action may involve change in one or more operation activities of the organisation such as modification, repairing of machines, preparation of certain courses and others, or it might also involve a change in the fixed standard. Corrective action is a process of identifying the distorted performance, analysing the distortion and developing and implementing programmes in order to rectify it. 11.2 THE CONTROL PROCESS The running of a control process is a continuous act. This process cannot be done only once in order to gain the achievement expected. This is considered as a dynamic process. This dynamic process begins with looking at the true performance and measuring the achievement level of that particular performance. Managers will then compare the performance achieved with the performance that has been fixed. If there happens to be any difference, it must be analysed in order to identify the cause of the differences and this is followed by the correcting act. This process must be done repeatedly and must be given full attention by the manager in order to achive the performance goals set. 11.2.1 Basic Methods of Control According to Williams (2000), a control process consists of three basic methods which are identified as future control, concurrent control and feedback control. 11.2.2 Future Control This type of control is also known as prevention control. This involves the use of information, including information from the latest results, is to forecast what will happen in the future so that preventive measures can be taken. It is implemented to prevent the occurrence of deviation between what had really happened with what is expected to happen. Prevention is carried out through detailed analysis on the input before it is accepted into the process of organisation transformation. Input is ensured to comply with the quality standards established so that the results obtained are as expected. One example of the use of this control is when a manager ensures that the sample of raw material that is going to be used complies with the standard established by the organisation or based on certain specifications to avoid damage towards the product in the future. 11.2.3 Concurrent Control Concurrent control is carried out during the process of transformation. When this control is carried out, restoration actions, corrective actions or modifications are done after distortion is detected. For a production-oriented organisation, this controlling action is taken while input is being processed while for service-oriented organisations, it is taken while service is being provided. Through this method of control, organisations will monitor their operations and simultaneously take the necessary corrective actions before the transformation process is completed. This will help to reduce mistakes in the outputs being produced. Examples of this method of control are mid-term examinations, control of accounts, control of inventories and others. 11.2.4 Feedback Control Feedback control involves gathering information related to the weaknesses of controlling measures after an incident takes place. This type of control is implemented after the transformation process has been completed with the purpose of finding out whether the whole activity ran properly with results as expected. This control is also able to determine whether the plan that is going to be carried out has the continuity with the previous programme. It is also able to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the involved parties in performing the activities of the organisation. An example of this method of control is the use of low-quality raw materials that resulted in the production of low-quality products. The act of changing the raw materials used is one of the examples of feedback control. 11.2.5 Types of Control According to Williams (2000), there are five forms of control that can be used by managers in implementing the process of control à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬ bureaucratic, objective, normative, concertive and self. Figure 9.3 illustrates these five forms of control. Bureaucratic Control This method uses hierarchy authority to influence employees. Rewards are given to employees who obey and punishment is meted out to employees who do not obey the policies, regulations and procedure of the organisation. Objective Control This method uses the measurement of observation towards the behaviour of employees or output produced to evaluate work performance. Managers are more focused on the observation or measurement towards the behaviour of employees or outputs rather than the policies or rules. Objective control consists of two forms of control; behaviour control and output control. Behaviour control Behaviour control is the rule of behaviour and actions that controls the behaviour of employees in their tasks. Output control Output control is the form of control that controls the output of employees by granting rewards and incentives. Important features in the implementation of output control are reliability, fairness and accuracy, convincing employees and managers to achieve the expected results while rewards and incentives depend on the performance standard that has been established. Normative Control Normative control is a method that arranges the behaviour of employees and results through norms and beliefs shared together among all the members within the organisation. There are two main substances in this type of control which are, sensitivity towards selection of employees based on their attitude and norms, and obtaining inspiration based on experience and observation of employees. Concertive Control This is a method that uses the norms and behaviour discussed, formed and agreed by the work group. This form of control plays a role in an autonomous work group. An autonomous work group is a work group that operates without the presence of a manager and is fully responsible for the control of process, task group, output and behaviour. Autonomous work groups gradually grow through two stages of concertive control. First, members work and learn from each other, supervising the work of each member and develop norms and beliefs that guide and control them. Secondly, the appearance and acceptance of objectives as guide and control of behaviour. Self Control It is a system where managers and employees control their own behaviour by establishing their own goals; monitor their own progress and their own achievements of goals, and reward themselves when goals have been achieved. EXERCISE 9.2 11.3 FACTORS THAT NEED TO BE CONTROLLED Determining the matters to be controlled is as important as making decisions on whether to control or in what method should control be done. There are several perspectives that need to be controlled by a manager in order for the organisation to be able to achieve the goals expected. 11.3.1 Financial Perspective One of the important areas that need to be controlled is finance. There are times when the financial performance does not reach the expected standard. If this condition remains undetected and relevant actions are not taken, the existence of the company might be in jeopardy. Financial perspective is generally related to activities such as sales, purchases and others. Financial statements are important sources of financial information for an organisation. A balance sheet shows how strong the financial position, assets, liabilities and the position of the equity holder for a certain financial period. A profit-loss statement or income statement shows the summary of the operational activities and the relationship between expenditure and revenue for a particular financial year. There is a new approach in the financial perspective known as economic value added. Economic value added is the total profit of a company which exceeds the capital cost in a particular year. In this perspective, a manager must impose control so that the total profit of a company always exceeds the capital cost for the company to continuously gain economic value added. 11.3.2 Human Resource Perspective The control towards human resources is vital for organisations. If an organisation is unable to control its human resources properly such as losing expert workforce hence it will jeopardise the performance and achievement of the company. Organisations need to have planning that is able to motivate the employees. For example, organisations need to be concerned regarding the problems faced by the employees by creating harmonious discussions between the management and the employees union. 11.3.3 Quality Perspective Internal operations of organisations are usually measured through quality. Operations control is very important for every organisation especially for manufacturing firms. This is because efficiency and effectiveness of operations control will determine the level of production and organisational performance as fixed by the standard. The quality value of products and services produced based on the standard will be able to strengthen the perception of the customers towards the quality of goods that they had purchased. For example, the control of product quality is able to reduce waste and product defects and this will further save cost. Inventory control is also effective in reducing the costs of investments related to inventory 11.3.4 Consumer Perspective In order to measure the performance of customers, an organisation needs to impose control on customers who leave the organisation and not based on the survey of customer satisfaction. In this perspective, the manager will make evaluation by measuring the percentage rate of customers who left the organisation. By controlling customers from leaving the organisation, a company will be able to increase profits. For example, the cost in obtaining a new customer is five times more compared to the cost of retaining an existing customer. SUMMARY The main purpose of management control is to prepare managers to face existing or future problems before it becomes critical. Management control has three basic needs: establishing standards; monitoring decision and comparing it to the standard; and making corrections on any distortion that occurred between the true decision and the standard. Control is a dynamic process because it is a continuous process. Control process consists of three basic methods: future control which is also known as prevention control; concurrent or present control; and feedback control. There are five forms of control that can be used by managers in implementing the control process: bureaucratic, objective, normative, concertive and self. In order to ensure that the organisation can achieve its goals, several important perspectives must be controlled à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬ finance, human resource, quality and customers.

Cause and Effect Essay - The Right Of Way -- Expository Cause Effect E

Cause and Effect Essay - The Right Of Way      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the state of Washington, pedestrians have always had the right of way. However, the recent enforcement of this law is causing traffic problems citywide. Traffic tends to come to a screeching halt without any warning. I was driving North on Nevada Street in Spokane, three of four lanes of traffic had stopped to allow a man and a young child to cross the street, the fourth lane of traffic had not stopped. Finally a car in that fourth lane of traffic stopped, causing the car behind it to slam on the brakes, literally coming to a screeching halt. Had the man and child started across the street and the screeching car not been able to stop, it would have hit the already stopped car pushing it forward, hitting the man and child. Pedestrians crossing the street are in more danger now that the law in being enforced, then they previously had been. The enforcement of this law has increased the risk to both drivers and pedestrians. The New American Webster's Dictionary defines jaywalking as: cross a street against a traf...

Digital Divide Essay example -- Access to Technology, Gender Roles

The following comment was written by an anonymous author in response to the digital divide that is so evident in our society today. â€Å"Power is necessarily unequal when one group knows what’s going on and the other group does not. And the powerless, lacking information as they do, almost necessarily function at the bottom of the economic and political pyramid of almost any society† (Racial divide,2010). Whether it is gender, racial, economic or disability related, our nation is segregated by the haves and the have-nots. Digital Divide defined What is meant by Digital Divide? The Digital Divide is the lack of ability for certain groups, usually socio-economic and cultural, to access necessary information and communication technology (ICT) (Gorski, 2001). The lack of access usually includes the unavailability to computer and internet services. As describe by Gorski (2001), the digital divide is further subdivided by gender, race, income and disabilities. Gender With the increase of availability of access to technology in society today, women are still lagging behind their male counterparts (Conversations for a Better World, 2010). Why is this still happening in the Twenty-first Century? Globally, the root cause is the cultural treatment of women. In many cultures worldwide, women are denied access to education let alone technology. Even if they are given the opportunity to use a computer, most often they lack the computer skills to effectively navigate most websites (Digital Gender Divide, n.d.). In America and other developed countries, the digital divide that separates gender is much narrower, and often equal to that of males, depending on the survey. If a digital divide does separate the genders in developed n... .... In summary, the Digital Divide is real and has placed a severe gap between certain groups of people in the American culture. The Land of Opportunity is not necessarily made available to all. In her CNet article, Sonia Arrison (2002), provides a unique perspective as to the reason behind the gap. â€Å"The digital divide is not a crisis, and it is certainly not the civil liberties issue of the 21st century. The real issues are the sorry state of education and the push to raise the taxes that affect lower income families most† (Arrison, 2002). Arrison states that if the Government could improve the education in the American schools and stop luxury taxes on so many services, the Digital Divide could easily be narrowed. By narrowing the divide, more families could afford Internet if so desired, and students could have access to a better education.

Compare the ways the contrast between two fathers and their daughters are made interesting in ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘An Inspector Calls’ Essay

‘Romeo and Juliet’ was written in the 16th century by William Shakespeare and ‘An Inspector Calls’ was written nearly 400 years later in the early 20th century by J.B. Priestley. In both of these plays the relationships of fathers, Lord Capulet and Arthur Birling and their daughters, Juliet and Shelia, are portrayed as being a typical father daughter relationship with seemingly very caring but slightly controlling fathers. In ‘Romeo and Juliet’, Lord Capulet seems to be very caring and considerate towards Juliet when speaking to Paris, a man that Lord Capulet would like Juliet to marry due to his status and financial position. This is shown when Capulet says â€Å"hopeful lady of my earth†, this infers Juliet means the world to him, it implies she is as precious to him as he created her and is very proud of her. It also shows that as she is his only child he wants nothing other than the best for her. We can also see that Capulet wants the best for his daughter when he is explaining to Paris how he wants him to â€Å"woo her† and to â€Å"get her heart†. This shows that Capulet wants Juliet to be in love with the man she is going to marry and wants to get married to him for her own emotional reasons and not just because her father wants her to. Many girls in the 16th century were forced into marriages they didn’t want to be in; many didn’t have a choice of whom they were going to marry but in Juliet’s case she did have some say which was a very rare occurrence. At the start of ‘An Inspector Calls’ we believe that Arthur Birling truly loves his daughter and he would do anything for her and support her in many ways. We can see this when he says â€Å"Sheila means a tremendous lot to me† over the engagement dinner with Gerald. It is portrayed that he truly has her best interests at heart and only wants the best for her. Although, as Birling later reveals that he wants Sheila to marry Gerald not only for her benefit but also for his, as Gerald’s father’s business (Crofts Limited) is Birling’s top rival and Birling knows that by his daughter marrying Gerald his business will thrive and exceed its current position. We can see this when Birling says â€Å"lower costs and higher prices† Birling is over joyed with Shelia’s choice as he can see the future business potential. So as we can see at the start of both of these plays both fathers only want the finest for their daughters and are trying to get them to marry into wealthy and well respected families. Change. The first time we see Juliet and Lord Capulet together is in Act 3, Scene 5, of the play when Juliet is about to tell her father that she doesn’t want to marry Paris. Lord Capulet walks in and witness’ Juliet crying, he thinks he is about to deliver good news which will stop her tears, but as he soon finds out she is crying because she doesn’t want to marry Paris. He is outraged. The audience can see this when Lord Capulet implies he will â€Å"drag thee on a hurdle thither† this shows that he is not going to take no for an answer and he is going to make Juliet marry Paris wither she likes it or not. He also refers to Juliet as a â€Å"curse† this proves that he is totally disgusted with Juliet that his own daughter is going against what he is telling her to do, and that all she is doing is bringing bad luck to the Capulet house hold, he is trying to make her feel so awful for not marrying Paris, in order to that she may change her mind. Even though Lord Capulet liked to give the impression that he was giving Juliet some choices in who she marries when he said to Paris â€Å"Within her scope of choice† we later find out that really Juliet had no choice and the decision was made for her. We thought that Lord Capulet was a kind and caring father but as we now can see he is not the person originally portrayed, when people do not do as he wants he turns into an strong willed man that will try to make them do it whether they like it or not . In ‘An Inspector calls’ Birling and Sheila’s relationship seems to be very childlike, this is shown when he says â€Å"Are you listening, Sheila?† and her reply is â€Å"I’m sorry, Daddy†. This shows that even though Sheila is growing up into a woman Birling is still talking to her like she is a child and is refusing to let her grow up. Birling is also very dismissive of Sheila; we witness this when he says â€Å"nothing to do with you, Shelia. Run along†, the way in which he speaks to her is quite belittling and we are made to believe that although she is his daughter, women are second class to men, he truly believes that she is not worthy of being spoken to with regard to the inspectors visit. Birling is a very single minded man who does not take kindly to opposition to his beliefs. This is seen when he says â€Å"we’ve had experience – and we know† this shows he is no longer prepared to discuss the topic any further, when discussing war with his son Eric. Birling has very similar expectations for his daughter as Lord Capulet has for Juliet, they both want their daughters to marry into good families however with a certain degree of control, we know this because Capulet says â€Å"within her scope of choice†, he is allowing her a certain degree of choice in whom she marries although it is clear that he would want to have the final say in who she married and therefore her choices are limited. Juliet clearly feels she is treated like a child too as she has no intention of marrying Paris as she is already in love with Romeo whom is a Montague. As the inspector questions each of the characters about a woman, Eva Smith (also known as Daisy Renton) who has apparently committed suicide. Each of characters have had some involvement with the young girl and may each of played a part into the her death. It is clear to see that Shelia’s personality goes from one of being immature and talked down to, to strong and mature, she accepts that she may have been partly responsible for the suicide of Eva. For the first time Birling is shown in his true light and Shelia she sees her father as being very opinionated and stubborn and refusing to accept any responsibility for his part in Eva’s death, as a rich employer to those in society who are not as wealthy, he has a duty of care. Birling also realises that his hopes and dreams may not become reality although he still refuses to accept any responsibility with regards to the death Eva, at the end of the play he cracks jokes about whole situation and about the way that possibly they have all been had over, although Shelia and Eric are remorseful, Birling mocks them when they are feeling so awful. When Capulet finds out his only daughter has taken her own life because she wanted to be with the man she loved, Romeo; not Paris, he seems to learn a lesson from his mistakes, this is shown in the quote â€Å"O brother Montague† (Romeo’s father) this conveys that now his actions have led to the death of a family members, Romeo also takes his own life and therefore there have been deaths on both sides which cause him to want to end rivalry between the Capulets and the Montagues. The word â€Å"brother† suggests that not only does he now want to take his rivals on as friends he sees them as almost family. This makes the audience feel sad for both families because for them, peace came at a very high price which both have paid but at the same time the audience would feel proud that both families have put their differences aside and came together to support each other. Ultimately the huge contrast between Lord Capulet and Birling is that although both men strive to be the successful men of their time and are trying to achieve the best for their daughters, Lord Capulet learns from his pushiness into trying to marry off his daughter to better the family name and Birling does not learn, even when someone has died and his daughter feels partly to blame he refuses acknowledge this or any part he himself may have had in the death of Eva Smith, or the feelings of his family. Juliet was a strong enough person to take matters into her own hands and hatch a plan to marry Romeo. Shelia shows that she is a more sensitive person by feeling guilt in her part of the death of Eva. The comparison of contrast between the two relationships became interesting and apparent when in each play someone died. Lord Capulet reflected on his actions and was able to offer an olive branch to his enemy in the hope that he could become a better person following the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. Birling still continued to be the single minded and stubborn man he started off as by not learning or realising that his actions have had consequences for others and especially his own family.

Mel Gibson vs. Kenneth Branaugh as Hamlet Essay

The recent â€Å"box office rebirth† of England’s favorite bard has left Hollywood with much to do about interpreting Shakespeare’s classic dramas. The characters of Ophelia, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, the gravedigger, and of course Hamlet himself take new life, as the greatest actors of our time assume these timeless roles. Produced in 1990, Mel Gibson’s â€Å"Hamlet† is a more straightforward, highly edited version of the original text in comparison to Kenneth Brannagh’s lavish rendition of the same tale. At only 135 minutes, Gibson’s â€Å"Hamlet† might be considered â€Å"Shakespeare Light,† the cinematic equivalent of Cliff’s Notes. However, although Brannagh should be commended for sticking to the text, be forewarned about this â€Å"Hamlet†-by including every line of the original play, this movie clocks in at exactly 242 minutes. The setting chosen for Brannagh’s and Gibson’s â€Å"Elsinore Castle† are as different as day and night, quite literally. And these bright and dark castle settings symbolically reinforce the specific â€Å"mood† or themes each director emphasizes. For instance, the lugubrious Gibson feels perfectly at home in his dark and dank mansion, an ideal place for a grieving soul to maintain its ruefull descent. Conversely, the introspective Brannagh is continuously catching glimpses of himself and others (and into their true souls) in the mirror-lined ballrooms of his glistening castle. Since Hamlet is, in its essence, truly a ghost story (so apropos for Halloween week!), each director has handled these â€Å"special effects† quite differently. Gibson gives a more stage-like handling of the ghost of  Hamlet’s father, using only lighting to cast an eerie glow or flickering shadows on its actors. Brannagh, on the other hand, seeks to use every filmmaker’s device possible, including the light blue glowing eyes of Hamlet’s father and the â€Å"dry ice forest,† (both of which stretched the limits of viewers’ imagination). One special effect that worked very effectively was the use of â€Å"flashbacks† in a character’s memory, specifically in scenes which show Hamlet and Ophelia’s romantic (yet clandestine) relationship developing. The greatest aspect of watching the Gibson and Brannagh films together is noticing the subtle differences between each actor’s expression of the same character. Both versions address, or evade, some of the most controversial issues in interpreting this play: Hamlet’s possible madness, his seemingly Oedipal relationship with his mother, and Ophelia’s suicidal demise. Mel Gibson portrays a brooding, sullen-browed young Hamlet–moody, miserable yet clever and cunning, and always lurking in the dark corners of this ever-somber castle. By contrast, Brannagh commands the screen with a Hamlet more brash and emboldened than Gibson’s, a determined young man whose bright and opulent surroundings reflect a very intellectual, socially and politically astute strategist (not to mention pretentious snob!). Both tiptoe the line between sanity and madness, without ever fully crossing over into a psychological abyss. With Glenn Close playing Gertrude, Hamlet’s mother, Gibson intensifies the Oedipal overtones between the queen mother and her son. Beautiful, elegant, and intensely emotional, Gertrude exudes an exuberant yet refined sensuality throughout the early scenes of the film. Does she linger a little too long on the lips of Hamlet, or is this merely a joyous display of affection for her only son? The famous, and perhaps infamous, bedroom scene eventually shows the glamorous duo of Close and Gibson struggling against one another, and the final fencing scene also emphasizes this pair, their constant awareness of the other’s situation. By casting the ethereal Close alongside the handsome Hamlet, Gibson focuses  on the mother-son relationship versus the Ophelia-Hamlet romance, as Helena Bonham-Carter presents an overly passive, almost prepubescent and one-dimensional performance of Ophelia. Too young, too much manipulated by her father, Ophelia in her insanity scene merely shows a weak young woman overcome by her own pitiful plight. Because her relationship with Hamlet is never developed in Gibson’s â€Å"Hamlet,† Ophelia’s suicide is a merely an action that furthers the plot of Hamlet’s fate–it is not given consideration as the fate of Ophelia herself, a complex, passionate, and â€Å"three-dimensional† character in the play. Brannagh’s casting of â€Å"Shakespeare’s women† gives an entirely different interpretation. To begin with, Julie Christie (as Gertrude) is downright homely in comparison to Glenn Close (check out the differences between the early â€Å"consoling scene† of each film in which Gertrude tells Hamlet that death is â€Å"common†). Thus, Christie is perfect for Brannagh’s interpretation–Hamlet seeks to avenge his father’s death not because of his Oedipal attraction to his mother (which would be too emotional and adolescent for this prince), but rather for some higher sense of truth and justice (perfect for the philosophical Brannagh). Christie is not the amiable, all-loving (or sensual) mother that we saw Close to be, and thus Gertrude’s â€Å"motivation† to marry the brother of her dead husband seems more about politics and power than pure passion. Her role in the movie and the sympathy she evokes in the viewers diminis hes greatly as we view her (and her second husband) with suspicion and even aversion. Yet Kate Winslet (also starring in â€Å"Sense and Sensibility,† â€Å"Heavenly Creatures†), cast as Ophelia, is simply breathtaking. Her presence on the screen commands the full attention of viewers, and Brannagh uses her charisma to create perhaps the most fully developed representation of Ophelia to be brought to any film. She is shown as a strong-willed, intelligent and independent young woman who is passionately in love (and lust!) with her eccentric prince. If you have seen and heard her grief expressed in â€Å"Heavenly Creatures,† then you will know that her â€Å"insanity scene† is the most harrowing display of a heart’s devastation that you might ever see. Her ethereal voice, her song of sadness, will be hard for viewers to forget. With a cast of characters including Billy Crystal, Charlton Heston, Robin Williams and Jack Lemmon, Kenneth Brannagh’s â€Å"Hamlet† is a sure-hit among devoted â€Å"Shakespeare-philes.† Yet, the dynamic performances of the characters in Gibson’s â€Å"Hamlet† guarantee that both movies are even better appreciated when viewed, and compared, together. One of the greatest aspects about Shakespeare’s plays is the never-ending interpretations and expressions that can be made–not only by film makers with their elaborate scenery and all-star casts, but also by each of us as viewers and, hopefully, as readers too.