Effects of Samsung

Describe the development of the company over time (including its origin) and provide information on range of products and activities† From its inception as a small export business in Taegu, Korea, Samsung has grown to become one of the world's leading electronics companies, specializing in digital appliances and media, semiconductors, memory, and system integration. Today Samsung's innovative and top quality products and processes are world recognized. 1938-1957 Samsung’s beginning: In 1938 the Samsung's founder Byung-Chull Lee set up a trade export company in Korea, selling fish, vegetables, and fruit to China. Within a decade Samusng had flour mills and confectionary machines and became a co-operation in 1951. 1958-1979 Diversifying in Industries and Electronics: From 1958 onwards, Samsung began to expand into other industries such as financial, media, chemicals and ship building throughout the 1970's. Soon after, Samsung created its own electronic appliances. 1980-1989 Entering the global marketplace During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Samsung diversified and expanded globally. The company started building bigger manufacturing plants for its appliances and electronics from 1982 to1987 in New York, England and Portugal. 990-1999 Becoming a Global Force In the mid-1990s, 17 different products climbed into the ranks of the top-five products for global market share in their respective areas. Despite the 1997 financial crisis that affected nearly all Korean businesses, Samsung was one of few companies that continued growing. 2000-Present Pioneering the Digital Age Now, Samsung is perfectly positioned as one of the world's recognized leaders in the digital technology industry, and they has won the No. 1 global market share for 13 of their products, including semiconductors, and CDMA mobile phones. Samsung Electronics Samsung Electronics was created in 1969, products include televisions and many other kinds of home appliances, telecommunications equipment, and computers. Its most important product is semiconductors. Semiconductors Lee had determined in the mid-1970s that high-tech electronics was the growth industry of the future, he formed Samsung Semiconductor and Telecommunications Co. in 1978. Utilizing its newly acquired knowledge, Samsung became the first Korean manufacturer of low-cost, relatively low-tech, 64-kilobit dynamic random access memory (DRAM) chips. Telecommunications Samsung first time offering was a car Phone in 1986, but it have poor reception and low sales. In 1993, a turning point came in company when it released the SH-700 series. Mobile of this Series have sleeker design and better sound quality, with a better product, Samsung reclaim more than half the mobile phone market share in Korea. Samsung cell phones found its way into American hands for the first time in 1996. A few years later, South America and Japan were enjoying the high-end design of Samsung Mobile phones. In early 2009, Samsung Mobile's global market share stood at more than 17 percent, second only to Nokia.

Early childhood educators Essay

Theorist What contribution to the field of ECE did this theorist make? When and Where? Identify historical issues and current trends in the early childhood care profession. Share an example of how the theorists work is used today. Rousseau Rousseau was the author of several education books; he proposed that children be educated in moral, harmonious environments free from adult dominance (Follari, 2011). Rousseau was influential in both Europe and America in the mid to late 1700’s. Rousseau emphasized out of the home schooling and viewed children as innately good. Rousseau reduced the importance of learning by reading and emphasized learning by experience. An example of his work is seen today as children learn through play. Pestalozzi Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi published a book in 1801 that helped influence the development of seeing his theories put into action. The â€Å"Pestalozzi method† was put into practice in 1805 at his school in Yverdon (Johann, n. d. ) Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi was an education reformer who was very passionate about getting education to poor children and teaching methods designed to strengthen the students own abilities. He wanted children to be taught as a whole ( Follari, 2011). An example of Pestalozzi’s work can be seen through field trips, puzzles, blocks, and physical exercise. Froebel Froebel made Kindergarten spread like wildfire through Europe and eventually to the U. S. He created what is known as Froebel gifts. He designed balls, wooden block, tiles, sticks, and rings to demonstrate that children could learn while at play (Follari, 2011). Froebel based his beliefs in teaching children on rationalism. He thought children could gain knowledge by logically thinking through concepts from a given premise. He started by giving his gifts and having the children work through them (Follari, 2011). An example of Froebel’s work can been seen through Kindergarten (Follari, 2011). Peabody Elizabeth Peabody opened the first English speaking kindergarten in Boston, MA in 1859(Follari, 2011). She also created the American Froebel Society to provide some regulations and originality of kindergarten programs. (Follari, 2011). Elizabeth Peabody was against the hands-on objects method of instruction. She liked individualized instruction instead. She thought children needed careful direction to develop properly (Follari, 2011). An example of her work is the acceptance of kindergarten as an accepted institution in U. S. education (Today, n. d. ). Piaget During the 1970’s and 1980’s, Piagets theories inspired the transformation of European and American education (Follari, 2011). Piaget believed learning occurs as a result of experience, both physical and logical. He thought knowledge could not truly be formed until the learner has matured to the mental status that the learning is specified to. He believed that children made moral judgments based on their own observations of the world (Follari, 2011). Piaget’s theories were used in the developing of the Dynabook programming system (Jean, n. d. ) Vygotsky. Lev Vygotsky proposed a theory of the development of higher cognitive functions in children that saw the emergence of the reasoning as emerging through practical activity in a social environment. Most of his work was influence in Eastern Europe in the 1920’s and later on in America (Lev, 2013) Vygotsky believed that children organized their thinking by private speech. His theory suggests that children have developmental rages which the child can be assisted in operating at higher levels than are possible alone (Follari, 2011). An example of his work would be scaffolding (Follari, 2011). Gesell. Dewey John Dewey’s education philosophy helped forward the progressive education movement, and spawned the development of experiential education programs and experiments (Follari, 2011). John Dewey believed that education should be based on children’s interests and should involve them in active experiences. He thought an active curriculum should be integrated rather than divided into subject matter segments(Follari, 2011). Problem solving activities. References Follari, L. M. (2011). Foundations and Best Practices in Early Childhood Education: History, Theories and Approaches to Learning (2nd ed., pp. 24-47). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education. Jean Piaget. (n. d. ). Jean Piaget. Retrieved from http://www. nndb. com/people/359/000094077/ Lev Vygotsky. (2013, November 17). Wikipedia. Retrieved from http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Lev_Vygotsky Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi: Pedagogy, education and social justice. (n. d. ). Infedorg. Retrieved from http://infed. org/mobi/johann-heinrich-pestalozzi-pedagogy-education-and-social-justice/ Today in History. (n. d. ). : May 16. Retrieved from http://memory. loc. gov/ammem/today/may16. html.

About Time Essay

When introducing his book, author Adam Frank tells us that he is setting out to â€Å"unfold the grandest conception of the universe we human beings have been able to imagine and explore. At the same time embracing our most intimate and most personal experience of the world — the very frame of human life. † â€Å"This book is about time, both cosmic and human. † For those interested in the complex journey of humanity through the cosmos, Frank does not fail in his quest to unravel the unique web of ‘time’ into a thread of understandable science. That is if you can take a partially solved puzzle and write a book that connects the proverbial dots of known science and cultural anthropology with the partially understood theories of cosmology and related sciences. Mission accomplished by Frank. Upon first receiving this book, I was hopeful that Frank would present the material of thousands of years of science in a unique and interesting way; setting his writing apart from the hundreds of other astronomy books I’ve read. See more: Strategic Management Process Essay Frank, being a seasoned writer and astrophysics professor, did not disappoint. Frank takes you on a conversational journey, filled with real life examples, both personal and historical, to share his view of some of the most multifarious ideas being considered in our galaxy today. The first few chapters are a review of compound science related to our galaxy, but Frank quickly dives into a discussion of how culture has been affected by the world around it. From there Frank draws a picture from intricate ideas and theories of how society fits in the larger puzzle of cosmology. All while focusing on the measurement of time. If you are looking to take your perspective of cosmology to a new and deeper level, allow Adam Frank to steal some of your time and read his book â€Å"About Time†. Frank will surely have you viewing your society, history, and clock in a whole new perspective. Not to mention putting you on the forefront of scientific theories and cultural progress being considered in the world of cosmology.

The cost-Effectiveness of Screening to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes in Essay

The cost-Effectiveness of Screening to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes in Saudi Arabia - Essay Example According to the World Health Organization, in developing countries, there are about 70 million suffering from the disease (Mohsen â€Å"Publications†). Due to lifestyle and socio-economic changes, this disease is not anymore a disease common in developed nations; it has now come to affect Third World and lesser developed nations. In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence of the disease is increasing. In the past two decades, when the nation has entered an era of vast economic improvements, the prevalence of the disease has also increased. Several studies conducted in different parts of Saudi Arabia yielded alarming results about the figures reflecting growing numbers of diabetes mellitus cases for the nation. In 2004, a study covering about 16000 subjects revealed that 23% of the subjects suffered from diabetes, with men suffering from the disease more than women, and with about 27% of diabetics unaware of the fact that they had diabetes (Al Nozha, et.al. â€Å"Articles†). The increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Saudi Arabia has impacted greatly on the economy of the country. The cost of healthcare in the Eastern Mediterranean Region credited to the disease in the year 2003 alone amounted to between 2.8 and 5.2 billion dollars. â€Å"The cost of diabetes care refers to the cost element that is attributable to diabetes itself or to the complications of diabetes; it clearly includes the costs of hospital admissions and other healthcare episodes for diabetic ketoacidosis, hypoglycaemia and other direct results of diabetes or its therapy† (International Diabetes Foundation, p. 3). For a developing nation like Saudi Arabia, these costs are an added drag to the nation’s economy. They add a great burden to the people who can barely afford some of their basic necessities, let alone the cost of hospitalization bills and medications. Many practitioners and healthcare administrators suggest ways and means to

Business Law Rubric 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Business Law Rubric 2 - Essay Example In each and every country, there are legal requirements that ought to be met in the construction industry in order to ensure that there is compliance with standard expectations of buildings. A building inspector is tasked with ensuring that all the buildings under construction pass various tests in their construction stages to ensure that they are safe to the people (Mallor, 1012). Legally, building inspectors are tasked by the department of construction in local governments to ensure that they inspect all the buildings to see if they comply with safety regulation stipulated by the law. A building inspector is mainly concerned with ensuring that illegal structures are not erected since these can pose a safety threat to the people. Municipalities are often responsible for overseeing all the construction work since they deal with issues related to local governments. The building inspector gives advice to the property owners about the steps that can be taken to ensure that all construction work is in compliance with the expected standards. The interviewee is a potential candidate to work as a building inspector and this interview has been designed to get more details about how he views this career. As such, the interview has been designed to get more perceptions about this profession from the candidate. How the job is related to the law -The bank loan officers are compelled by the law to act within certain parameters to ensure that they do not violate the rules and regulations that are expected in this area. This career is related to the law since it is stipulated in the constitution all banks should act within a specific legal framework. A bank loan officer is responsible for vetting loan applicants to see if they meet all the requirements or if they have not been declared insolvent at one time (Cillers, 218). A bank loan officer is expected to verify all the documents possessed by the applicant to establish if he qualifies for the loan. In

Comparative Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Comparative Theory - Essay Example Modern revolutions in ways of thinking have taken place, and they resemble in substantial ways the revolutions in thinking of the fourth century B.C. These revolutions occur with great pain and difficulty and have made a lot of people angry, including Plato to a limited extent in the ancient era, and literacy hounds such as Allan Bloom to a great extent in the present era. The belief persists now that visual texts are inherently inferior to written texts, a belief that has gone through many permutations since the invention of the camera and that has resulted in discussions about the nature of "realism." The unexamined belief in the inferiority of visual texts continues to saturate the academy in the United States. Many people now will routinely acknowledge the idea that film and video are "artistic" media. However, their own responses to these media often indicate that these newer symbol systems are not in fact taken as seriously as symbol systems such as print or painting or music. The most compelling evidence for this marginalization of newer discourse technologies lies in their integration in general education requirements. They are regarded as peripheral concerns, unrelated to the study of print texts. Aristotelianism," as it has been called derives from print culture. The grammar of film and the grammar of video have not been integrated into enough film. Classical Rhetoric is a discipline that teaches man the rules and principles of fluent expression, knowing and doing good, master certain techniques and familiarizing himself with the good, the True and the Beautiful. It involves the study of fundamental principles of political philosophy, ethics and traditional psychology. It assists the learner to give a political speech and also learn elements of good character (Corbett, 1990) Beginning at a young age with practice in imitating the writing of others, rhetoric study extends in later years into the specific study of persuasive expression. There is no better place to begin this latter kind of study than with Aristotle's Rhetoric. Aristotle taught that there were three elements of communication: the speaker, the audience, and the speech itself. In fact, his book is broken down into three parts, one on each of these elements of rhetoric. Aristotle adds the three kinds of persuasive speech: political speech, legal speech and ceremonial speech. In political speech, the audience is some body of decision-makers like a political assembly. Its subject is the future, and its object is to move the audience to take some course of action. The end of this kind of speech is suitability, which is a kind of good. Political rhetoric, therefore, is highly moral or ethical in character. (Atwill, 1998) In a legal speech, the subject is the past, and the object is the determination of what has or has not in fact happened. A lawyer arguing a case in court would be an example of a legal speaker, although anyone who argues to an audience about past events would count as a legal speaker. The end of legal speech is the determination of the truth, making it very logical in nature. A ceremonial speaker would address the present and would concern himself with the present honor or dishonor of someone. He would engage in the praise or blame to achieve his object. The person giving an eulogy and certain kinds of sermons would engage in this sort of rhetoric. Because of its ceremonial nature (which is why it is often referred to as the rhetoric of display), ceremonial rhetoric is

IT - Operation Aurora Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

IT - Operation Aurora - Research Paper Example This cyber security and the increasing cyber crime had been the greatest concern for the present as well as for the future generation. A study made in the year 2003 in the United States of America revealed that 31 percent of the respondents considered this cyber security as the second most concern after the misappropriation of the individual assets. Moreover over 15 percent among the respondents have experienced the threat of cyber security in the last two years facing a loss which most of them could not quantify in actual. However on an average measurement of the total financial cost for the last two years incurred in cyber crime valued to be about 812,318, US dollars (Smith, Grabosky, & Urbas, 2004, p. 15). Thus the paper focus on cyber security with the main focuses on Operation Aurora. Type of breach Viruses in the computer system, defacement or the alteration of the websites along with system crashes and redirection or even misappropriation of the resources of the system are som e of the breaches generally reported in regards to the cyber security (Smith, Grabosky, an Urbas, 2004, p. 15). Morgan Stanley underwent a "sensitive breach" where hackers attempted to enter its complex for six months, starting from June 2009 (Rashid, 2011). Circumstances of the occurrence of breach Operation Aurora is a large scale hacking that victimized even Google and Morgan Stanley along with about 200 other companies with most of their identities not yet revealed. They had made the breach occurring in Google public in the month of January 2010. However they kept the hacking of the company of DuPont secret. Fear of the affect on the investors of the company in revealing the hacking or the breach was the reason behind the secrecy maintained by the company to the public. The seriousness of the issue of this cyber hacking forced the white house in engaging a senate task force for reporting and investigating in the security issues of this cyber world. The recent trend of the online attacks in targeting the renowned international companies reveals the cyber insecurity of the corporate world. In order to prevent the dangerous trend from persisting and even increasing the companies have to undertake own initiative in ensuring steps for the security of their own data served online. According to the Whitehouse, theft and piracy are engaging in the transfer of wealth that is the biggest in the planet history and the victim companies stands on the ultimate losing end. Another incident of an attack launched in the year 2009 that had the Chinese base had targeted the energy companies. The security firm of McAfee reported the attack named as â€Å"Night Dragon†. However the identity of the targeted company was not disclosed by the report published by McAfee. But the emails of the company of HBGary Federal had with it the lists of the name of the targeted companies. According to the lists the companies were Exxon Mobil, Royal Dutch Shell, General Electric, Marath on oil along with ConocoPhillips and BP. (Liebowitz, 2011) Operation Aurora even imposes a break in the network security of the bank, Morgan Stanley. A company of cyber security working with the corporate bank had their very sensitive email stolen which indicates the experience of the hacking of the ‘China based hackers’

Marriage Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Marriage - Essay Example This paper will look closely at the factor of having the right partner for the marriage and if it can help to cement a stable relationship. But first let us explore the institution of marriage and the dynamism of the institution The question that linger in our mind is what is the real cause of such instability in our marriages Though this question is hard to answer, there are some obvious answers that any one of us can give as the main cause of such instability in the marriage institution in the modern world. In order to find the appropriate answer to this question, we should first look at the cause of that may be leading to high rate of divorces in our society. Let us look at some of these causes There are many causes of divorce in our modern society. The leading cause of divorce and instability in our marriage has been identified as economic issues in marriage. Though many people and many psychological counselors tend to downplay this issue, it is the leading cause of many divorces. It has been shown that there is high rate probability for divorce in case one of the partners loses income. Economic constrain in marriages leads to conflict on most issues in the households. The modern marriage has been commentated on basis of equal contribution by both partners who came into force with the end of full time mothers. In our traditional society, husbands were given the duty of providing fro the families but this has changed over time with the coming of modern notion of full time career mothers. As a result husbands have been reluctant in providing for their families alone if their wives are working. Hence in case where both the husband and the wives are working, failure by one partner to remit their contribution to the maintenance of the family is one of the leading factors causing instability in marriages. Many of divorce cases that have been filed have resulted from the economic hardship faced by one of the parties in marriages. It has been observed that most of divorce cases filed on economic ground is fronted by wives. Therefore economic issues are one of the factors in stability of the marriage that goes beyond the issue of whether one is having the right partner or not. (Cooper, 2006) The other cause of divorces in marriage has been infidelity from one or both of the partners. In many instances, sexual dissatisfaction has been one of the leading factor causing breakdown of many marriages. Infidelity has become norm in most modern marriages with many partners citing sexual dissatisfaction as the main cause of their infidelity. The issue of infidelity goes beyond the compatibility of partners in marriage and the breakdown in married couple with declining value of the institution can be identified as the leading factors causing infidelity. Sexual deprivation come as a second issue in marriage conflict which means there has to be a primary issue that is causing this dissatisfaction and which leads to infidelity. The other issue that can be identified

Steady-State Economics and Environmental Philosophy Research Paper

Steady-State Economics and Environmental Philosophy - Research Paper Example According to an article â€Å"CASSE proposes the establishment of a steady state economy with stabilized population and per capita consumption.† (U.S. Fed News Service) To begin let’s examine the significance the environment has on a state’s economy. Why is it important that the two thrive together to produce a stabilized economy, The environment and the economy rarely have traveled together on the same path. Gains in the economy come at the sacrifice of the environment. Protection of our natural resources hamstrings business development. Or so the argument goes. But what if by protecting special lands, cleaning up environmental problems and growing responsibly, we actually increase jobs, stop the population migration, and revitalize our communities? (DiBerardinis) According to an article published for Environmental Law the state of the environment plays a very significant role in the advancement or the downslide of the economy, The warning of "global environment al crisis" is being sounded more and more frequently by scientists, politicians, and other observers. The doomsday predictors of the 1960s, like ecologists Paul Ehrlich(1) and Rachel Carson,(2) have been joined by an ever-growing chorus of doomsayers in the 1990s.(3) Rachel Carson's concerns regarding pesticides were prominent in the early 1960s; today, concerns about the potential myriad of ecological effects from global warming predominate. Loss of biodiversity from habitat destruction, pollution, and other threats is also a major present concern.(4) The proliferation of environmental alarms has, as expected, been accompanied by claims of critics that the alarms are overstated.(5) Besides denying the existence or magnitude of environmental threats, these critics question the priorities of the leading environmental advocates and their focus on government regulation, rather than the market, to address those priorities.(6) Underlying the debate over whether humans' demands on the Ear th have exceeded its ecological carrying capacity is a debate over the propriety of economic growth, the primary goal for rich and poor countries and for most international institutions.(7) The doomsayers generally see humans' unbridled pursuit of economic growth as a major root of all or most environmental evils; their critics generally see growth as providing a solution to environmental problems.(8) While this debate has continued, there has been increasing consensus behind the concept of "sustainable development," which became a global future through its adoption by the United Nations-sponsored Brundtland Commission in a 1987 report entitled Our Common Future.(9) That report defined sustainable development vaguely as development that "meet[s] the needs and aspirations of the present without compromising the ability to meet those of the future."(10) Although that concept has helped raise the prominence of environmental protection on national and global policy agendas, it has not u nseated economic growth as the primary public policy objective. (Wenig) The impact of the environment is crucial to the survival of a state’s economy. There are many ways to help ensure the environment’s safety. There are organizations that rise up to protect natural habitat from extinction. There are organi

Thorstein Veblen Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Thorstein Veblen Paper - Essay Example His father's systematic and methodical practice of his craft, and the simple work ethic of the people around him, made a lasting imprint on his mind. The impact on his thinking of the marked behavioral and lifestyle contrast between the industrious, hardworking farmer-artisans and the small businessmen, traders, and lawyers (mostly white Americans) in the towns found its expression in much of his work in later years. Until 1891, when Veblen found a teaching post at the economics faculty of the University of Chicago, he was practically a professional failure. But once he was attached to an "institution" of higher learning, he thrived and his career blossomed, moving to Stanford in 1906, the University of Missouri in 1910, and in 1918 worked at various posts, lectured, and wrote thought-provoking works that continue to challenge modern minds to this day. We see in this distinction his insight into the working of the economy as a coordinated system with two components: the producing, technology-driven, practical side called industry and the coordinating, value-providing, and capital stimulating business enterprise. His concept of industry does not only relate to the working of machines. Veblen applies it equally to agriculture and animal husbandry as to encompass any activity that involves a series of precise, interdependent, and interlocking processes that are larger in scope than the machines, animals, and crops that are harnessed for public consumption and convenience. He calls 'captains of industry' those who coordinate these industrial processes. Veblen (6) looked at industrial process as having two clear and general characteristics: it has to be well-coordinated and precise. These, he concluded, would lead to greater efficiency and the development of standards that, in turn, would lead to uniformity. The eventual conclusion in a market where free competition exists is the production of goods that are more affordable, an increase in consumption, and the development of new products based on profits generated by the continuing industrial process. The over-all coordination of the machine industrial processes has to be done with precision, because any imbalance would affect its efficiency, threatening the integrity of the system and producing waste, idleness, and hardships (18). How is such over-all coordination achieved This is where the business enterprise plays an important and decisive role. Veblen states (19) that "the organization of the several industries as well as the interstitial adjustments and discrepancies of the industrial process at large are of the nature of pecuniary transactions and obligations. It therefore rests with the business men to make or mar the running adjustments of industry." Business, in

Dezember and Zimmerman Essay Example for Free

Dezember and Zimmerman Essay The authors, Dezember and Zimmerman (2012) report that almost six years after being purchased by private groups in 2006, Michaels Stores Inc. has plans to take the retailer public again. Currently owned by the private-equity firms Blackstone Group LP and Bain Capital LLC, Michaels no longer has equity securities listed on the New York Stock Exchange after going private. While private-equity firms have lately outperformed companies that have gone public, Dezember and Zimmerman (2012) say that Michaels plans to jump on the IPO bandwagon in hopes of doubling its owners initial 6 billion dollar investment. After the announced plan the public will soon see the launching of Michaels stock and a listing of the new share price. The announcement of the filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a $500 million issue comes after much interest from investors desiring initial public offerings (Dezember and Zimmerman 2012). Dezember and Zimmerman (2012) report that Michaels went from no debt before the buyout, an advance of $4.3 billion in debt after the buyout, and has reduced its debt down to $3.4 billion since. Yet even with the debt the retailer added 160 stores and will come back as a larger and more profitable public enterprise. Although they have yet to determine how many shares will be issued and at what price, the owners plan on using some of the IPO money from the sale of stock in the company to reduce their high debt, foster working capital, and pay general expenses (Dezember and Zimmerman 2012). If the end result is profitable, Michaels could be laying the foundation for other large equity-backed companies to take advantage of public markets.

Protocol on Assessing and Treating Autism Essay Example for Free

Protocol on Assessing and Treating Autism Essay Introduction Autism has been the focal point of extensive study and contentious debate. Issues pertaining to its etiology, classification, treatment, and education prolong to maneuver those who come into contact with this exigent disorder.   In a contemporary perspective, clinical practitioners used the term to describe a withdrawal into fantasy in schizophrenia.   Characteristics of autism, such as avoiding the gaze of others and showing no detection of a parents absence, continue to be viewed as archetypal symptoms—writers later described this communal dearth as withdrawal. Thus, despite all these, there has been overpowering sighting on autistic individuals; scholars resolute that children with autism had good cognitive potentialities. This then gave a spark of hope to parents and later scoured for means to at least try preventing the child from becoming autistic during his or her adulthood (Sicile-Kira, 2004). Autism: In a Broad Perspective   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Autism is described as multifaceted neurobehavioral disarray which is distinguished by mutilation in shared societal relations, communication impairment, and the existence of monotonous and typical prototypes of action, wellbeing, and activities. Basically, symptoms occur in the age bracket of three years and below, thus the severity of the medical impairment varies dependent on the diagnoses and on to what doctors would define as its â€Å"spectrum.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Children with autism may be initially hard to distinguish since that the cases of autism are similar to that of the actions pf a normal infant (Ami Klin, Schultz, Volkmar, 2003).   Thus, it ranges on the verity of social interaction and the ability to express emotions that the distinction is then patterned.   As a matter of fact, language and communication deficits are also considered as stereotypical factors, hence not undermining the possibility of being a â€Å"late bloomer.† However, unlike the previous centuries where autism has been treated as a genetically acquired and inevitable to cure impairment, studies and researches have shown that there are far more better means and   a series of protocols to help treat autism in the verge of its early years to not only help the child   but also give light to its families as well (Treatment, 2008). Behavioral Approach Behavioral and didactic interferences have turn out to be the principal approach for treating individuals with autism. It includes operant conditioning, respondent (Pavlovian) conditioning, and cognitive approaches.   Basically, it involves a reinforcer and a punisher.   In this sense, the key players in the treatment process and similar to that of Ivan Pavlov’s theory, the student shall learn the essence of following the reinforcer so as not to be punished. Cognitive Developmental Approach   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Despite the behavioral factors that have been brought upon by scholars and medical practitioners, the neurodevelopmental differences were also observed to be an underpinning to the whirlwinds of autism.   These are considered because of the following reasons: firstly, autism is a varied turmoil and is prone to have manifold potential etiologies; secondly, structural neuro studies have specified an array of dispersed anatomical dissimilarities, thus weighty to that of an untimely developmental transformation in the expansion or pruning of neural tissue.   Further, relatively than contained abrasions; similarly, neurochemical researches advise early, neuromodulatory incongruities better than sickening or localized idiosyncrasies.   And lastly, numerous boundaries on studies of neurologically involved activities that to date disqualify definitive answers to questions of how the brain functions and responds differently in autism. Medical Approach   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Detecting autism earlier using new approach—this is the proposed strategy posted in me Medical News Today compliant to that of a press release of psychologists and psychiatrists in the University of New South Wales.   By this means, it is said that it is an up-to-date way of understanding the autistic inclined disorder through the collaboration of psychological and biological factors which are most likely to lead to conditions that are medically curable. Enactive Mind Protocol: Actions to Cognition Level of evidence   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Due to the increasing demand of resolving the magnitude of discrepancy upon understanding the pathophysiology of autism as transcribed in newer techniques, researches have been made to document and decipher the answer to the social discrepancy of these individuals.  Ã‚   The EM protocol instigated from the work on ‘embodied cognitive science’—a neuroscience scaffold that drafts cognition as physical occurrences ensued as a product of an organism’s adaptive behaviour upon significant facets of the contiguous atmosphere. Perceivably, such offers a developmental premise of autism in which the progression of gaining of personified societal cognition is overturned prematurely, as an effect of condensed salience of social spur and parallel passing of generally extraneous aspects of the setting (Ami Klin et al., 2003). Ease of use   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Perceivably, two of the most intriguing puzzles posed by autistic individuals are their social reasoning discrepancy and their failure to do naturalistic actions on normal situations.   Such distinction in character pounds them to the cognitive deficit of being different thus with the help of EM will then teach them better reasoning skills, which will have an impact on their real-life and communicative competence.   Further, the fact that these individuals have several cognitive, linguistic, knowledge-based and potentially useful vocational assets—but consequently in the contrary finding social situations challenging—would serve as their strength which will help them compensate their autism, and EM will help make it easier.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For individuals with autism, however, the topology of salience, defined as the foveal elicitation of socially relevant stimuli—exemplified in eye-tracking tests and in studies of preferential attention to social versus non-social entities. If corroborated in larger studies, this finding would point to a major disruption in a highly conserved skill that is thought to be a core ability underlying social engagement and, subsequently, the capacity to attribute intentionality to others. The EM approach early social predispositions are thought to create the basis and the impetus for the subsequent emergence of mental representations that, because of their inseparability from social action, retain their adaptive value (Ami Klin et al., 2003). Barriers to implementation In contrary though, when an effectual interference protocol is executed at as juvenile an age as possible, it is most likely to create a vast distinction in the childs upshot and height of functioning later on in his or her adulthood.   The kit is to be in an array of books, medicine and other materials which have been compiled by distinguished medical practitioners who have been focusing on looking for means to treat autism. The risk points out however, that the â€Å"social interaction tests† in this protocol may not hold hard evidence on determining a child from being autistic or the otherwise. But then again, even though the protocol is risky, giving the task to parents or guardians, it may help the general public save time and save money for that matter. Rationale I chose this protocol for the reason that several studies have been documented similar to such and therefore, its level of evidence and feasibility in assessing and treating autism is valuable.   We have learned that these characteristics—counting, tapping, flicking, or repetitively reiterating words—and habitual behaviors including as an inflexible observance to usual and an obvious struggle to change—are the most explicit signs of autism in a child.   In essence, medical teams and concerned parents of these children are collaborating together to find the most efficient and effective protocol in treating autism before it becomes worse in the later life of any autistic child’s life (Simmons, 2007).   Most importantly, these new protocols are characterized to be â€Å"out-of-the-box† since that it does not only focus on the potency of â€Å"psychological† instances but it has dwelled more on tangible factors which are then easier to dist inguish. The provisions of information and supplements to assist parents of young children who have been lately found to be within the autism gamut hastily put into practice an intercession course which is believed to bridge a treatment for autism (Ami Klin et al., 2003).   Such protocol has profited a considerable proportion of brood within the vortex of the issue.   Further, it is a sarcasm to articulate that it is overpowering to obtain a distressing judgment of autism and then to try to speedily establish a course of action to facilitate the medical challenge. Conclusions and further remarks Efficiency of the protocol, evaluation on the possible gaps, barriers to implementation—these are perceivably the astounding thoughts that may sprout in the midst of these shared and introduced protocols.   Thus, the sheer actuality that science is always open to new ordeals is an assurance that there is always hope in anything.   Even though these questions continue to be clouded by polemics, the results from systematic groups, as well as from classrooms all the way through the country point toward those constructive efforts to instruct students with autism can and do work (Sicile-Kira, 2004).   In a like manner, the field of autism and developmental disabilities is beginning to recognize that the questions asked in the past may need to be changed. There is an increasing identification of values such as enclosure, preference, and self-determination from mischief, and these are now being integrated into programs that concern the issue on assessing and treating autism.   Protocols serve as proof that the challenge is well taken. References Ami Klin, W. J., Schultz, R., Volkmar, F. (2003). The Enactive Mind, or from Actions to Cognition: Lessons from Autism. Journal, 358(1430). Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/3558147 Mehl-Madrona, L. (2008). Imaging Children with ADHD: MRI Technology Reveals Differences in Neuro-signaling. Journal. Retrieved from http://www.healing-arts.org/children/ Sicile-Kira, C. (2004). Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism, Aspergers Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, and Other ASDs. New York, NY: Perigee Trade. Simmons, K. (2007). Autism Treatments. Journal. Retrieved from http://www.autismtoday.com/alternative_options.htm The Association for Science in Autism Treatment   (2008). About Autism. Journal. Retrieved from www.asatonline.org

Analysis of South Africas Retail Industry

Analysis of South Africas Retail Industry Executive summary South Africa is a player in the local and international retail industry. Retail like all business operates and is affected by external forces as well as internal forces. The external forces are commonly referred to as macro and micro environmental factors have a direct or an indirect impact on the retail industry. Retailers do not have much control over environmental forces unlike marketing variables. It is therefore crucial that every retail business identifies these forces and monitors them effectively to reduce negative impact on growth and profit margins. Retail is primarily about buying decisions and behaviours. Economics play a large part in influencing both individuals and organisations with regard to their buying decisions and behaviours. South Africa like any global player has as a top priority the aim to grow in terms of economic activity. The effect that the retail sector has on the SA economy and also on international impact of our retail sector on imports and exports are evaluated. The more business is conducted the more tax is available to the government to provide appropriate services and establish its various development programmes. Facts that are critical to success of South Africa retail industry are looked in relation to Market size and scope of growth of the retail industry in South Africa? Growth prospects and issues related to the industry? Size of segment of the organized market what are its growth prospects? Major players in South African retail industry, their strategies for growth, and their position in the market? Emerging trends in the South African retail industry? Opportunities challenges before the retailers in South Africa? Key findings are summarised, presenting the valid information relating to the contribution of the retail industry in the economic growth of the country. In the final stage of the analysis, a conclusion signifying which segment of Retail is most attractive is made, detailing the reasons for such conclusion, from beginning to end showing importance of the factors contributing to its attractiveness. Retail overview Retailing encompasses all activities involved in selling gods or services directly to final consumers for their personal non business use. Although most retailing is done in retail stores, in recent years non-store retailing has been growing much faster than has store retailing. Non-store retailing includes selling to the final consumers through direct mail, catalogs, telephone, the internet, TV home shopping shows, home and office parties, door to door contact, vending machines and other direct selling approaches. (Kotler, 2005) For purposes of this assignment only formal retail will be discussed. There are different type of retailers classified in terms of several characteristics including the amount of service they offer, the breadth and depth of their product lines and the relative prices charged and how they are organised. Major Store Retail types include Speciality Stores, Department Stores, Supermarkets, convenience stores, Discount Stores, Off-Price Retailers and Superstores. (Kotler, 2005 pg368) The sector encompassing wholesale and retail trade, hotels and restaurants is an important contributor to GDP and employment for South Africa. It is evident that the preparations toward hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup have likely influenced a large increase in investment in the sector as hospitality services, for example, gear up for this major event. That said, the sector has been hard hit by the recent global economic slowdown, evident in the contraction in growth of the sector itself, as well as decreases in employment. The latter is of serious concern considering that the sector is South Africas third largest and also employs 22% of the labour force, with a large proportion being women from the informal sector. (Climate Risk Opportunity A15 Retail and Tourism, 2009) Key Players in the South African Retail Market : Pick n Pay; Metcash Ltd; Massmart Holdings Ltd; Woolworths Holdings Ltd; Spar Group Ltd; Edgars Stores Ltd. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, the South African economy is expected to have contracted by 1.8% in 2009 in the wake of the sharp downturn in global demand and commodity prices, tougher financing conditions, weak household spending and low business confidence. Growth will bounce back in 2010 to 2.8% spurred by the hosting of the World Cup. However, the struggling sectors, mainly manufacturing and retail, will remain in doldrums. There is a risk that electricity shortages, will re-emerge in 2010-11, constraining energy-intensive sectors, such as mining, as new base-load power station are not expected to come on stream until 2012. (rru.worldbank, 2010) The overall Ease of Doing Business ranking slipped this year mainly due to a 22 spot drop in the Starting a Business Indicator. South Africa still ranks in the top 100 in eight indicators. The lowest ranking is in the Trading Across Borders indicator. (rru.worldbank, 2010) Macro environment analysis According (Neiman and Bannet (2002), p. 32), Macro Environment takes in consideration of all the external influences that restrain a bearing in the business, but is not compact beneath its direct subject of influence. The importance falls on the renovation that unmanageable micro-variables bring about, and their implications for the business, yet enduring alongside, each other of changes in the environment, in charge to be able to forecast the changes in the environment which can turn to be a difficult mission. The universe of sociological elements that affect a companys ability to serve its customers or sell its goods and services. There are six major macro environment forces: cultural, demographic, economic, natural, political, and technological. The cultural environment includes institutions and other forces that affect the basic values, behaviors, and preferences of the society-all of which have an effect on consumer marketing decisions. The demographic environment includes the study of human populations in terms of size, density, location, age, sex, race, occupation, and other statistical information. The economic environment consists of all factors-such as salary levels, credit trends, and pricing patterns- that affect consumer spending habits and purchasing power. The natural environment involves all the natural resources, such as raw materials or energy sources, needed by or affected by marketers and marketing activities. The political environment includes all laws, government agenc ies, and lobbying groups that influence or restrict individuals or organizations in the society. The technological environment consists of those forces that affect the technology and which can create new products, new markets, and new marketing opportunities. (Dictionary of Marketing Terms) Regulatory and Political Environment: Regulatory and political environment denotes local, state, national, and global laws and regulation which concern businesses. Many business decisions are motivated by the legal and regulatory controls (Solomon, Marshall Stuart. 2006, p. 52). Retail Merchants like other industries are subjected to a number of local and international regulations. Political and legal factors contribute to the environment in which managerial decisions must be made. (Daniels)[1] They are an integral part of the retail operating environment. There are regulations governing the conduct of business in various sectors of the South African Economy. Regulatory bodies and processes the South African Retail Council (SARC (Consumer Goods Council)[2] A unified retail body that will strengthen retailers position and voice in the industry. The objective of SARC is to deal with issues pertaining to retailers interests, the pressing challenges facing the retail industry as a whole including: a fragmented retail representation to key stakeholders; and duplication of efforts and costs. As a collective voice for the industry SARC will shape the environment in which retail business takes place in South Africa. Fundamentally, SARC will focus on two particular areas as impacting on the retail industry: Economic legislative Affairs; and Labour Relations. As a unit within the CGCSA, SARC enjoys the benefit of sharing the existing infrastructure and well established resources currently enjoyed by CGCSA. SARC is mandated to engage in debates and discussions of legislation drafting which will impact on retailers; to give direct input into the South Africas regulatory frameworks. SARCs mandate with regards to labour relations would be to work w ith the government on labour issues especially regarding transformation and equity compliance. Members also have an opportunity to network through seminars, workshops and conferences thus getting an opportunity to learn and build relationships; Information and Resources: regular updates on industry position statements, policy papers or briefings and government submissions. Consumer Goods Council of South Africa[3] The Consumer Goods Council of South Africa is a Section 21 company representing over 11,000 member companies in the retail, wholesale and manufacturing of consumer goods. Its vision is to be a formidable and respected industry voice in South Africa. Its mission is to promote partnership amongst stakeholders across the consumer goods industry in resolving shared non-competitive matters in the most efficient manner to the ultimate benefit of the consumer. (CGCSA) Competition Commission In meeting the objectives to the Competition Acts, the commission is focused on restricting anti-competitive practices, eliminating abuse of dominant positions and strengthening merger control. Three institutions are created in terms of the Act to achieve the above objectives: The Competition Commission, which is independent but whose decisions may be appealed to the Competition Tribunal and the Competition Appeal Court; The Competition Tribunal, which has jurisdiction throughout South Africa and is independent from the competition institutions; and The Competition Appeal Court, which has status similar to that of a High Court and jurisdiction throughout South Africa. (Department of Trade and Industry South Africa) Sources: Government Communication and Information System, Waksmans Attorneys: Business Guide to South Africa, DTI Office of Consumer Protection[4] The Office of the Consumer Protection (OCP) functions as part of the consumer and Corporate Regulation Division of the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti). The OCP administers the Consumer Affairs (Unfair Business Practises) Act 71 of 1988. The office also enforces other legislation administered by the dti that contains consumer protection provisions. The Office of Consumer Protection is committed to protecting consumers against unfair business practices through complaints resolution, investigations, prosecutions, education and voluntary compliance programmes. It does this by: Promoting the spirit of fair trade between consumers and service providers; Educating consumers about their rights and duties; Providing quick and fast resolution of complaints through negotiated settlements; Investigating and resolving matters relating to unfair business practices; Prosecuting Offenders ITAC ITAC was established through an Act of Parliament, the International Trade Administration Act 71 of 2002, which came into force on 1 June 2003. The aim of ITAC, as stated in the Act, is to foster economic growth and development in order to raise incomes and promote investment and employment in South Africa and within the Common Customs Union Area by establishing an efficient and effective system for the administration of international trade subject to this Act and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Agreement. The core functions are: customs tariff investigations; trade remedies; and import and export control. Legal Environment In the context of Macro Environment analysis a legal system is the mechanism for creating, interpreting and enforcing the laws in a specified jurisdiction. The South African Retail environment is a regulated one exhibiting elements of constitutional law, criminal, civil and commercial laws. According to (International Business Environments and Operations 12th Edition, Daniels, Radebaugh, Sullivan; Pg 158) The constitution of a country is designed to guarantee an open and just political order, the criminal law is designed to safeguard the social order, the civil and commercial laws ensure fairness and efficiency of business transactions. Aspects of all three components bear on the decisions made by managers and investors. This accurately describes the legal environment in which the South African Retail market operates. The legislation applicable in the country is a method used by the government to regulate retail business practices, defining acceptable practices for conducting business transactions, to specific the rights and obligations of parties engaged in the business transactions and to afford legal redress when needed.(Int. bus Environ Operations) The South African legal climate is that of a democratic mixed legal system, engaging, common law, civil laws codified in various legislation, regulations and customary law. South Africa offers a balanced legal and political system safeguarding the interest of consumers as well as corporations, small medium enterprises. The political climate as well as the social environment is stable. The legal environment is derived partly from the political climate in a country and has three distinct dimensions to it: The domestic laws of home country; the domestic laws of foreign markets; International law in general. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) Domestic laws govern marketing within a country, e.g. the physical attributes of a product will be influenced by laws (designed to protect consumers) relating to the purity, safety or performance of the product. Domestic laws might also constrain marketers in the areas of product packaging, marking and labeling, and contracts with agents. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) South Africas commercial legal system has been influenced by English law. English courts create and follow precedents just as South African courts do. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) Central to all commercial activities is the contract. The purpose of a contract is to specify the respective rights and obligations of the parties to an agreement and outline specific procedures or actions that must take place. Buyers and sellers are at times also subject to international law, which may be defined as that body of rules which regulates relationships between countries or other international legal persons. There is neither an international parliament empowered to create international law; nor an international police force to enforce it. The principal sources of international law are treaties and conventions. Other sources of international law are custom (i.e. international practice that is accepted as law) and the general principles of law recognised by civilized nations or natural law (the basis of human co-existence). The Incoterms (2000), as published by the International Chamber of Commerce, are not, strictly speaking, part of international law. Another area in which international law plays an important role is in controlling the use of the sea and the environment outside the territorial waters of countries. The control of international air travel by organisations such as IATA (International Airline Transport Association), or structures such as The Hague-Visby Rules in relation to ocean freight, may also be regarded as part of international law. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) Legislation affecting the Retail Market in South Africa:- Labour Laws in South Africa (Department of Labour South Africa)[5] (Employing Workers) Workers in the retail sector are protected by a plethora of legislation (listed below). Notably the protection afforded by legislation and regulations deals with: wages,, hours of work, leave, prohibition of child labor and termination of employment. Amended Labour Relations Act; Basic Conditions of Employment (Amendment) Act, 2002 ; Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997; Basic Conditions of Employment Act Labour Relations Act ; Labour Relations amendment Act 2002; Employment Equity ; Employment Equity Act ; Skills Development Act ; Unemployment Insurance Fund; Rules for the conduct of proceedings before the CCMA; Skills Development Act; Sectoral Determination: 9: Wholesale and retail sector; No. 85 of 1993: Occupational Health and Safety Act as amended by Occupational Health and Safety Amendment Act, No. 181 Of 1993 Labour Regulations There is a plethora of regulations impacting the SA Retail labor and some of these are:-Driven machinery, Electrical Machinery, Construction ,Asbestos ,Lift escalator and passenger conveyer, Electrical Installation, Environmental regulation for workplaces, Facilities, Certificate of competency. South African Paint Manufacturers Association: Guide to Health Safety in the workplace Employment Equity: Code of good practice: Employment Equity, EEA 2: Employment Equity report, EEA 4: Income differential statement, EEA 10: Occupational categories, Technical Assistance Guidelines on the employment of people with disabilities) Land and Building Laws (Dealing with Licenses, Registering Property) Construction Industry Development Board Act, 2000; National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act (Act 103 of 1977); Land Reform (Labour Tenants) Act Tax Laws (Paying Taxes) Taxation Laws Amendment Act, 1999; Taxation Laws Amendment Act, 2004; Value-Added Tax Act, 1991 See discussion on Tax below. Constitution of South Africa Commercial and Company Laws (Starting a Business, Protecting Investors, Closing a Business) Companies Amendment Act, 2004; Companies Act, 1973; Competition Act, 1998 Civil Procedure Codes (Enforcing Contracts, Closing a Business, Protecting Investors) Magistrates Courts Rules of Court Banking and Credit Laws (Getting Credit, Protecting Investors) Banks Act, 1990; Insolvency Act Unfair Business Practices Act no 71 of 1988 EXCHANGE CONTROLS (SOUTH AFRICAN RESERVE BANK) Financial Regulations (Financial Services Board) Consumer Protection Act no 68 of 2008 (Data to follow) Consumer Affairs (Unfair Business Practises) Act 71 of 1988 The act deals with unfair business practise which is defined as any businesses practice which directly or indirectly has, or is likely to have, the effect of harming relations between business and consumers, unreasonably prejudicing any consumer, deceiving any consumer or unfairly affecting any consumer. Competition Amendment Bill, 2008[6] In 2006 DT reviewed the current competition regulatory framework. The review of the existing competition law regime was informed by a need to respond to the industrial policy objectives such as promotion of competitiveness; Observations on the challenges of the competition authorities in dealing with uncompetitive outcomes resulting in artificially high prices to the detriment of consumers; e.g. competition problems resulting from complex monopolies or multi-firm conduct; To strengthen efforts on cartel enforcement by introducing personal liability on directors who cause their firms to engage in cartel activities. (Department of Trade and Industry South Africa) To address these, the dti proposes to introduce Competition Amendment Bill, 2008 (Bill). The Bill is not intended to overhaul the current competition regime but is focused on key areas aimed at Strengthening the existing provisions of the Competition Act; Providing the competition authorities with extra powers to deal robustly with uncompetitive practices; and Enabling the Competition Commission to play a more proactive role in investigating markets and take measures to ensure market transparency. Competition Commission Act[7] 1998 (Werksmans Publications) The Competition Act affects every business operating in South Africa, and the serious consequences of contravention necessitate a sound understanding of its basic principles. An overarching law, the Competition Act, prohibits anti-competitive behavior such as price-fixing and collusion between competitors, and the abuse of dominance. The Act also provides for a merger control regime in terms of which the prior approval of the competition authorities must be obtained for certain mergers and acquisitions. South African competition law differs from foreign models in that the focus is not purely on competition issues, but also on certain public interest and social goals such as the promotion of small businesses, the interests of employees and black economic empowerment. South Africa has a well-developed and regulated competition regime based on best international practice. South Africas economic system is predominantly based on free market principles. However, as in most developed economies, competition is controlled. The Act fundamentally reformed the countrys competition legislation, substantially strengthening the powers of the competition authorities along the lines of the European Union, US and Canadian models. The Act provides for various prohibitions on anti-competitive conduct, restrictive practices (such as price fixing, predatory pricing and collusive tendering) and abuses by dominant firms (firms with a market share of 35% or more). South African authorities embarked on a major overhaul of competition policy, which led to the formulation of a new policy, the Competition Act, No. 89 of 1998, which seeks to achieve the following objectives: To promote the efficiency, adaptability and development of the economy; To provide consumers with competitive prices and product choices; To promote employment and advance the social and economic welfare of South Africans; To expand opportunities for South African participation in world markets and recognise the role of foreign competition in the Republic; To ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises have an equitable opportunity to participate in the economy; and To promote a greater spread of ownership, in particular to increase the ownership stakes of historically disadvantaged persons (HDIs). Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act No 53 of 2003[8] Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) is a specific government policy to advance economic transformation and enhance the economic participation of black people in the South African economy. The Department of Trade and Industrys (the dtis) growth strategy includes a focus on broadening participation, equity and access to redress for all economic citizens, particularly those previously marginalised. The Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) Act, No. 53 of 2003, facilitates the dtis work in this area by establishing a legislative framework for the promotion of BEE; empowering the Minister to issue Codes of Good Practice and publishing Transformation Charters; establishing the BEE Advisory Council; and making provision for matters connected therewith. (Department of Trade and Industry South Africa) International Trade Administration Act 71 of 2002, The object of the Act is to foster economic growth and development in order to raise incomes and promote investment and employment in the Republic and within the Common Customs Area by establishing an efficient and effective system for the administration of international trade subject to this Act and the SACU agreement. (Department of Trade and Industry South Africa) Intellectual Property Rights[9] South Africa has a developed system of intellectual property law covering patents, industrial designs, copyright and trademarks. It is also a signatory to most of the international conventions in this field. Environmental Regulation In terms of Section 24 of the Constitution and the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) is to take care that a sound balance is maintained between environmental and socio-economic aspects in all policies, plans, programmes and decisions, including the encouragement of investment, granting of incentives and all other interventions. the dti encourages existing industries to implement Cleaner Production (CP) as an internationally adopted tool that incurs savings, increases competitiveness and elevates companies to higher levels of resource and energy efficiency. the dti at the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development established the National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC), which implements CP in priority sectors, focusing on textiles, agro-processing and chemicals. NCPC sector projects are conducted in terms of Trade and Investment South Africa (TISA) Customised Sector Programmes (CSP). POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) The political environment has an impact on the attractiveness of economic prospects of a particular country or region, also a companys international activities. The decision on whether or on to transact will be influenced by various factors including financial penalties on a company or if unanticipated events in the political arena lead to the loss of income-generating assets. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) The greater the level of involvement in a foreign markets, the greater the need to monitor the political climate of the countries business is conducted. Changes in government often result in changes in policy and attitudes towards foreign business. Bearing in mind that a foreign company operates in a host country at the discretion of the government concerned, the government can either encourage foreign activities by offering attractive opportunities for investment and trade, or discourage its activities by imposing restrictions such as import quotas, etc. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za).Companies should therefore continually adjust their policies accordingly. Nearly all governments today play active roles in their countries economies. Although evident to a greater or lesser extent in most countries, government ownership of economic activities is still prevalent in the former centrally planned economies, as well as in certain developing countries which lack a sufficiently well developed private sector to support a free market system. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) Reflected in a governments attitudes and policies towards business are its ideas about how best to promote national interest in the light of the countrys economic and political resources and objectives. Foreign products and investment seen to be vital to the growth and development of the economy often receive favourable treatment from the government in the form of reduced tax, exemption from quotas, etc. On the other hand, products considered by a government to be non-essential, undesirable, or a threat to local industry are frequently subjected to a variety of import restrictions such as quotas and tariffs. It is also important to be aware of the nature of the relationship between South Africa and the foreign target market. This was a major consideration during South Africas political isolation. Fortunately, South Africas international relations have normalised and today South Africa is viewed very favourably, from a political perspective, by the rest of the world. The political environment is connected to the international business environment through the concept of political risk. Political risk is determined differently for different companies, as not all of them will be equally affected by political changes. Political risk is of a macro nature when politically inspired environmental changes affect all foreign investment. It is of a micro nature when the environmental changes are intended to affect only selected fields of business activity or foreign firms with specific characteristics, (possibly by expropriation). When business is conducted in developing countries, the risks of greatest concern are civil disorder, war and expropriation. When business is conducted in industrialised countries, labour disruptions and price controls are generally seen to pose the greatest threats to a companys profitability. (http://www.exporthelp.co.za) Government Policies As in any other industry, the retail trader has to follow and honour laws and regulations of the host country and central regulations. At some level of the state, the retailer has to pay licence fees, and comply with community health and fire, safety standards, as well as zoning and building codes. At the point of the government and central controls can have a variety from pricing to employee hiring to the insurance of credit (Stewart Abbott. 1993, P. 115). South Africa operates an open market economy often retailers have challenges with compliance with the technical standards, regulatory and conformity assessment regimes are substantial, even when they are transparent. (Koch)(Technical Barriers to trade Barriers Faced by South African SMMES Michael A Peet Steven F Koch) Government regulation comes in many forms, such as tax regulation, labour regulation and regulations concerning the import and export of goods. These regulations have both costs and benefits, which government must balance. Regulation is a broad area that impacts on companies in many different ways. A study conducted and using data gathered from a number of South African Company surveys to investigate how government regulations impact on firms showed the following findings:- Funding, grants and initiatives Sources of funding for Companies or individuals doing business in South Africa are mainly from Commercial Banks. Funding from Bank Loans affords tax efficient benefits where the funds are used for the purpose of trade and in the production of income. The interest paid on the loan is tax deductible, subject to the transfer pricing and thin capitalization provisions. (DTI, 2009) Local borrowing virtually includes all forms of borrowing and financing facilities, e.g. bank loans, overdrafts, facilities and finance leases, credit extended to local suppliers of goods and services, borrowing limits are set on pre-set formula. Types of loans (DTI, 2009) include:- Mortgage Loans: each commercial bank applies its own policies; Unsecured loans: to finance working capital through overdrafts, depending on good standing of the company. Alternatively the banks can require security in the form of personal guarantees by the directors, physical security such as bond over unbounded property, or a cession of the book debts of the company. Discounting and factoring: discounting of e.g. foreign bills, trade bills, bankers acceptances or promissory notes. Corporate Finance: for medium sized companies, tailor made solutions for larger or more complex needs.; Export Finance and Guarantees State Assistance: The state owned Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) finances the private sector to facilitate commercially sustainable industrial development and innovation to the benefit of South Africa and Southern Africa. Finance is in the form of equity, quasi equity and medium tern loan finance. Interest rates are competitive and risk related and based on the prime bank overdraft rate. T

Charles Dickens’s David Copperfield Essay -- GCSE English Literature Co

Charles Dickens’s David Copperfield David Copperfield was Charles Dickens’s eighth novel, and has been said to be Charles Dickens favorite novel. In the Charles Dickens edition of the novel Dickens states, â€Å"It will be easily believed that I am a fond parent to every child of my fancy, and that no one can ever love that family as dearly as I love them. But, like many fond parents, I have in my heart of hearts a favorite child. And his name is David Copperfield†(Valsmis 1). Many of the events of the novel, David Copperfield, have been compared to Charles Dickens own life; therefore many believe the novel to be somewhat autobiographical. John Forster one of Charles Dickens close friends and the author of Dickens biography wrote, â€Å"too much had been assumed†¦of the full identity of Dickens with his hero; but certainly a good deal of Dickens’s character and experience went into the book†(Unknown 2). Forster’s remark deals mainly with some of the publicâ€⠄¢s belief that the entire story of David Copperfield was autobiographical. Charles Dickens began work on David Copperfield after John Forster questioned him about his childhood. E. D. H. Johnson's, Charles Dickens: An Introduction to His Novels, discussed a conversation that John Forster overheard between Charles Dickens’s father and a man, in which; the man claimed that he remembered a young Dickens working in his factory (Johnson 1). Johnson stated, â€Å"Forster's curiosity over this chance discovery moved Dickens to write the fragment of an autobiography which he subsequently entrusted to his friend when he decided to incorporate the substance of his recollections almost verbatim in the Murdstone and Grinby episode of David Copperfield†(Johnson 1). D... ...vid Copperfield. http://www.eiu.edu/~multilit/engl253-01s02/dickens/publicationrecep.htm Other Sites interesting Sources Hornback, Bert. David Copperfield in Noah's Architecture: A Study of Dickens' Mythology. Athens, OH: Ohio State P, 1972: 63-82. Needham. Gwendolyn B. The Undisciplined Heart of David Copperfield in Nineteenth-Century Fiction 9 (1954): 81-107. [Reprinted in David Copperfield,Norton Critical Edition, Ed. Jerome H. Buckley, New York: W.W. Norton and Company, 1990: 794-806.] Nussbaum, Martha C. "Steerforth's Arm: Love and the Moral Point of View" from Love's Knowledge: Essays on Philosophy and Literature (New York: Oxford UP, 1990: 335-363).<o:p></o:p> Stewart, Garrett. "Dickens and Language," in Cambridge Companion to Charles Dickens, Ed. John O. Jordan, New York: Cambridge UP, 2001: 136-151.

Leonardo Fibonacci Essay -- Mathematics Papers

Leonardo Fibonacci Leonardo Fibonacci was one of the great mathematicians of his time. His lifestyle allowed him to travel and study math in various countries, and he ended up combining his cultural knowledge to discover the most effective ways of doing mathematics. He is most famous for his contributions to the European number system and for his sequence of numbers known as the Fibonacci numbers. Starting with 0 and 1 as the first two numbers, each number in the sequence is the sum of the two preceding numbers. He came across these numbers as a solution to a problem that he used as an example in one of his many publications. He was not aware of the importance of his findings at the time. Many uses have been found for these numbers since Leonardo’s death and many mathematicians have used this sequence in their own theories. Leonardo Fibonacci was born in Pisa, Italy in the middle 1170’s. When he was almost twenty, he moved to Bugia, Algeria with his father, Guielmo Bonacci. Bonacci was the secretary of the Republic of Pisa responsible for directing the Pisan trading colony in Bugia. When he brought his son to Algeria, he had Leonardo educated to become a merchant. During his studies in northern Africa, Fibonacci discovered the Hindu-Arabic number system, which he had not been exposed to in Europe. When his father arranged for him to work for the Pisan republic, Leonardo took advantage of his business trips to countries such as Greece, Sicily, Egypt and Provence. He studied the methods of mathematics that were practiced in these various nations. He discovered that the Hindu-Arabic numerals were much more effective and easier to manipulate than the Roman numeral system used in Italy. [i] .. ...997. Newman, James R., The World of Mathematics. Vol. 1, New York: Simon and Schuster, c1956. Peer Reviewed by Melissa Lenzi and Mike Hartman. [i] http://www.lib.virginia.edu/science/parshall/fibonacc.html [ii] Ibid. [iii] http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibBio.html#who [iv] Sanford, p.25 [v] http://www.lib.virginia.edu/science/parshall/fibonacc.html [vi] Ibid [vii] http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibBio.html#who [viii] http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibFormula.html#calcnext [ix] Ibid. [x] Ibid. [xi] Gullberg, p. 287 [xii] http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knot/Fibonacci/lucasNbs.htmll#otherstarts [xiii] Gullberg, p. 288 [xiv] Boyer, p. 287 [xv] http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibpi.html#piandfib [xvi] Newman, p.718

The Last Samurai :: essays research papers

My Place of Refuge For a number of people visiting places of significance can be the channel for changing one’s point of view on life, recharging one’s emotional battery, or growing closer to one’s family and friends. These favorite places could have characteristics such as captivating beauty, sentimental value or a refuge of serenity. My favorite place where I find refuge is at Pomme De Terre Lake near Bolivar, Missouri. This is where I find a connection with my family and friends. The lake is a place to reflect on times spent growing up and now a place to make new memories with my family and friends. A place to find refuge from normal day-to-day life and take in the beauty of such a splendid area that God created. 1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The smells surround me in an irresistible craving for the lake. A. The smell of the dew in the morning B. Smells of the campfires C. Waking up by the aroma of the bacon frying. 2. As I think of the aroma of the bacon frying it brings my to the sensational tastes created at the lake. A. The flavor of the bacon in your mouth. B. I take delight in the taste of the smoked turkey on July 4. C. The taste of a cold beer while spending a hot day on the lake or enjoying a late night game of cards. 3. The magnificent sights created at the lake. A. Blazing orange and red colors created by the flames of the campfire. B. The marvelous scene of an evening sunset. C. The view of our family enjoying time together at the lake. 4.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The sounds of the lake create a refuge from the normal day-to-day life. A.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The voices of my family talking and laughing B.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The roaring of the engines of the boats racing up and down the water. C.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   While laying in the tent taking in the peaceful sounds of the night 5.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The lake makes me feel such an enjoyment. A. The feel of the salmon ski under my feet B. The control I feel while in the driver’s seat of the boat C. The feel of the dew under my feet People need to find a place that can cause a renewing to their body and their inner self. People need time to create significant memories with their family and friends. They need a place to reflect back on the beauty of our magnificent world that God created. We all need to find a way to recharge our emotional battery and grow closer to the ones we love.

Irish Nationalism

Irish Nationalism: The Fight for Self-Government Since the late twentieth century, Ireland has been subject to varying types of English rule. There has been much debate on the degree of English rule in Ireland, but the call for a united Ireland was very popular among many Irishmen. Nationalistic feelings in Ireland saw a steady growth in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century with many different movements looking to achieve Irish self-government. These nationalistic movements can be categorized into three groups: constitutional, revolutionary, and cultural nationalism.Whether by politics, violence, or education, Irish nationalistic groups each had their own ideas on how to achieve independence from English rule. Each group had its strengths, as well as its weaknesses that contributed to the overall success of the nationalistic movements. Constitutional nationalism, which encompassed nationalism through political forces, mainly involved the vision of Home Rule. Home Rule was the idea of having an Irish parliament to control domestic matters while Britain controlled external Irish affairs. The face for the Home Rule movement was Charles Stewart Parnell, a political leader and Irish landlord.Parnell is most commonly known as the founder and leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party. He turned the Home Rule movement into a major political force dominating legislation, and proving it to be a vast encompassing party by gaining the widest possible support. Parnell was deemed the â€Å"Uncrowned King of Ireland†, possessing enormous political skills leading him to be extremely successful in the field of practical politics. However, political scandals led his leadership to be called into question and put his whole political career on the line.Charles Parnell’s skills led him to many accomplishments in politics. Parnell was elected president of the Irish National Land League in 1879 which campaigned for land reform, including the reduction of tenants ' rents during a time of economic disaster. He not only raised an enormous amount of funding for famine relief during a trip to America, but Parnell also used his position as president to gain the support of tenant farmers in his fight for Home Rule. The support that came from the Land Movement and its mass appeal aided Parnell in bringing the Home Rule party under the wing of the movement.One of Parnell’s greatest accomplishments was the conversion of William Gladstone and the Liberals to Home Rule. During the election of 1885 the Conservative party used Parnell in order to gain an electoral advantage. This tactic succeeded giving them the majority of seats in Parliament and ultimately leading to the Liberals under Gladstone coming to power with Home Rule party. Although Parnell enjoyed great success as the leader of the Home Rule party and as a notable force in the fight for domestic Irish self-government, his weaknesses limited the extent to which his political skills coul d carry him.Parnell accomplished a great amount in the fight for Home Rule, but ultimately he failed to achieve it. The reason he was unsuccessful was due to his greatest weakness, the scandal with Katherine O’Shea. During the time Parnell was elected leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party he began a relationship with Katherine O’Shea, wife of Captain William O’Shea. His fall from power occurred when Captain O’Shea filed for a divorce naming Parnell as the guilty party. â€Å"It was therefore Captain O’Shea and the divorce case which brought down Parnell†[1].Although many leading politicians had known about Parnell and O’Shea’s affair for some time, it was when Parnell did not challenge Captain O’Shea’s allegations that shocked the public. This caused Parnell to be revealed as an adulterer and discredited him as a leader. Gladstone was forced to distance himself from Parnell due to the fact that the Liberals had no chance of winning the next election with ties to Parnell. Without the support of Gladstone, Home Rule was not a possibility. In the end, Parnell’s strengths were his greatest weaknesses.His pride and iron will kept him from contesting Captain O’Shea’s allegations allowing O’Shea’s side of the story to go unchallenged and ultimately leading to Parnell's fall from power. Constitutional nationalists such as Charles Parnell used politics in pursuing Irish self-government. The strength of this method is that it delivers concrete results. Although Parnell was not able to achieve Home Rule himself he was able to gain support for the party, leading the way for John Redmond to get the third Home Rule Bill passed by the House of Commons.Before this time, no success of this magnitude had ever been achieved in the fight for Irish independence. The weakness of constitutional nationalism is that it is a time consuming method. It took two initial Home Rule Bil ls to be rejected, the first of which being introduced in 1886, until the third was passed in 1914. Parnell dedicated his political career to the pursuit of Home Rule and was not able to see it passed before his death. Even when the third Home Rule Bill was passed, the process of it becoming a law was suspended pending the end of World War I.Constitutional nationalism is successful in that it delivers results in the fight for Irish self-government; however, the process is long and grueling. Revolutionary nationalism was a more forceful, rebellious method in pursuing Irish self-government. Revolutionary nationalists were not afraid to use violence including assassinations, bombings, and even uprisings. The most popular uprising in the struggle for Irish independence was the Easter Rising, which took place shortly after Britain’s entrance into World War I. The main group involved in this revolutionary nationalistic movement was the Irish Republican Brotherhood.The Irish Republi can Brotherhood, or I. R. B. , devised a rebellion to overthrow Britain’s government in Dublin following the time tested dictum that England’s difficulty is Ireland’s opportunity. While Britain had surely forgotten about Ireland and Home Rule, focusing its attention mainly on the war, the I. R. B. used it as an opportunity to rebel. Patrick Pearse, a key leader in the rising, chose Easter for the uprising for its biblical connotations of sacrifice and resurrection; he saw the rising as a ‘blood sacrifice’.The rebels hoped to take control of Dublin as well as initiate riots in order to start a revolt, in turn removing English rule. However, the rising was a military disaster. On top of many of the rebel’s plans being disrupted by the British, poor organization also led to an unsuccessful rebellion. Upon capture many of the rebels were condemned to execution including James Connolly, who was carried to a firing squad tied to a chair due to an i njury sustained during the rising.The nature of these executions led to anger among many Irishmen and turned the rebels into martyrs. The rising led to control of Irish politics shifting from the Irish Nationalist Party to the recently I. R. B. infiltrated Sinn Fein. This shift led the way for constitutional nationalists to push for a challenge to Britain’s control of Ireland. Revolutionary nationalists took a more direct approach in the fight for Irish self-government. Rebellions, such as the Easter Rising, sought to overthrow government in a revolution without political involvement.This approach is strong in that it is has been successful in the past, as seen by the American and French revolutionary wars. A revolutionary approach can shift power almost instantly rather than going through years of political negotiations. However, when unsuccessful, revolutions end in meaningless bloodshed. The Easter Rising at first seemed to be a failure, resulting in the deaths of many Iri shmen for no reason. Instead, Britain’s reaction resulted in the rebels becoming martyrs, and the British losing the hearts of the Irish people.Although the Easter Rising resulted in the deaths of many Irishmen, it also opened the door for constitutional nationalists to take control of parliament in the 1918 general election and for revolutionary nationalists to initiate the Anglo-Irish war. While constitutional nationalists focused on politics and revolutionary nationalists focused on rebellions, cultural nationalists focused on the revival of Gaelic culture and language. Just as constitutional and revolutionary nationalism was important in the fight for Irish self-government, so was cultural nationalism.It helped to foster a spirit of earnest nationality, invoking feelings of patriotism in young Irishmen. The Gaelic Athletic Association was established to do just this. Founded in 1884, the Gaelic Athletic Association aimed to establish an independent Irish organization dedi cated to promoting athletics as well as preserving Irish nationalism. The Gaelic Athletics Association not only encouraged education about Gaelic language and culture, but was also formed as an anti-British group closely associated with the Irish nationalistic cause.This association caused the GAA to get caught up in the troubled politics of the early twentieth century. In 1920 British soldiers interrupted a football match in Dublin firing shots into the crowd and onto the field killing fourteen people. This was a response to political violence that had occurred in Dublin earlier that day. This event came to be known as Bloody Sunday. However, the Gaelic Athletics Association was a non-violent one that was subject to the repercussions of being associated the nationalistic cause. The GAA is claimed to have been founded by the I. R.B. with the goal of getting Irish youth involved with an organization in order to form a physical power capable of pressuring the Home Rule party of the fu ture. Although the association had no violent or political intentions, it provided the depth that the Home Rule party needed in order to secure an independent, self-governing Ireland. Cultural nationalists were strong in that they united Irishmen in the fight for Irish nationalism. Cultural nationalists promoted camaraderie through athletics and focused on a revival of nationalistic feelings as well as Gaelic culture.They provided a unity of Irish people that was necessary to the success of a self-governing Ireland. However, cultural nationalists did not provide any concrete results in the pursuit of Irish independence. They brought together the Irish people but only to the extent that they were prepared to join a constitutional or revolutionary force. Nationalistic feelings were high in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Many nationalistic movements that existed sought to set up Irish self-government in one form or another.These movements were constitutional, revoluti onary, or cultural nationalistic groups. Each group possessed both strengths and weaknesses. Constitutional nationalists succeeded in political battles relating to domestic rule. However, their means were often time consuming and presented results that were not very certain. Revolutionary nationalists, on the other hand, were able to change the tides of the Anglo-Irish governmental struggle almost instantly. The bloodbath that resulted in their physical force, however, was the weakness of their methods.Finally, cultural nationalists were able to unite Irishmen in the fight for self-government promoting nationalistic feelings. Unfortunately, they provided no real means of progressing Irish nationalism in the fight for self-government. Constitutional nationalism had the most impact with the Home Rule party as well as the Dail Eireann (Assembly of Ireland) which helped to establish a treaty following the Anglo-Irish war in order to establish the Irish Free State. However, without the p hysical presence to back up the political force, Irish self-government would not have been possible.As Eamon de Valera stated, the way to Irish independence was â€Å"first battling England with votes, and if that failed, with rifles. †[2] All in all, each form of Irish nationalism contributed in some way to lead Ireland into a self-governing country. Bibliography [1] â€Å"PARNELL AND KITTY O'SHEA. † PARNELL AND KITTY O'SHEA. Web. 05 May 2012. . [2] â€Å"Troubled Ireland – Anglo-Irish War. † Troubled Ireland – Anglo-Irish War. Web. 05 May 2012. . [3] Hachey, Thomas E and McCaffrey, Lawrence J. The Irish Experience Since 1800: A Concise History. Armonk, N. Y: M. E. Sharpe, 2010. Print. ———————– [1] [1] [2] [2]

Laissez Faire Leadership Essay

Managers and supervisors who adopt the laissez-faire leadership style delegate responsibility for the accomplishment of work objectives and decision-making power to their employees. For example, a CEO of a large, new-car dealership may allow departments — such as NEW CAR SALES, used car sales and service — to operate on their own without his direct supervision. In this case, the CEO sets expectations for the departments’ operations, revenues and costs and provides the needed resources to accomplish particular business objectives. However, the department managers and employees determine how they will achieve the objectives. Implementation of Laissez-faire Leadership This laissez-faire system works best in groups of experienced, educated and highly skilled employees such as staff specialists or consultants who are accustomed to working in team environments. In our example of the car dealership, the NEW CAR SALES, used car sales and service department teams each possess specific skills and have received specialized training. So each team may work best when it establishes its own work schedules, works independently and makes decisions as a group, rather than at the direction of its CEO. In this example, laissez-faire leadership is especially effective because many department problems are well defined, a course of action is frequently predetermined, resources are readily available and limited CEO interaction is required for the team to work effectively. Advantages of Laissez-faire Leadership â€Å"Hands-off† leadership allows each team’s skilled members to brainstorm to identify appropriate solutions to problems and implement these decisions rapidly. As a result, the business avoids the cost involved in some meetings, such as the opportunity cost of not completing other tasks, missed sales calls and lost customer face time. Laissez-faire leadership works well in a creative environment where employees are free to implement innovative solutions. In our example, the sales team works with the finance department to identify creative financing options for potential buyers. The service department, meanwhile, employs up-to-date technology and mechanics skilled in contemporary engines.

Cooked Essay

In the movie named The Smell of Coriander, I find a touching story about a man who realizes his profound redemption from the punishment. Waking up early, having a heartily prepared meal, dressing up and being picked up to the company by a private driver is the beginning of a normal working day of Thanh who is a successful middle aged investor in real estate and stock market in Viet Nam. He is also the CEO of the trading center naming Sky. Many people look at his successes and his happy family with the jealousness. But behind his current clean, perfect profile is an ashamed background in which he appears as a true, heartless betrayer.Thanh was a talented, handsome man in a small village besides a mildly flowing river. His superficial youth led him to the pregnancy of Hoa, his girlfriend. They were really in love with each other, and they were planning for a wedding by themselves. A month after the pregnancy of Hoa, Thanh was accepted to an illustrious university. He was a smart and am bitious man, so he wanted to follow the call of a promising life which would change his life totally if he took the chance. Obviously his girlfriend became a burden for his own career.Thanh knew that she would not let him go unless he would take her with him. He decided to leave Hoa in secret and pursued his dream. When Hoa realized that his boyfriend has left, she was drastically shocked, but she still wanted to keep the child. As a part of Asian culture, having a child without the husband is a considerable shame for a family, so Thanh left her family and born the child in a motel; then, she gave him to a poor family in another village. She could not admit the truth that his boyfriend had left her, so she committed a suicide in the hopelessness and the severe hurt.After graduating from the university, Thanh got married with a wealthy and powerful woman and began his own career, while his forlorn son, Huy, tried to overcome every single complication to go to school and to survive. H uy was as smart as his father. He always appeared as an outstanding student at school, so he got a scholarship to study business in a university. Ironically, that scholarship was sponsored by his unknown father’s corporation. Huy somehow knew about his mother’s death and his betraying father from the poor family in which he was adopted.He grows the revenge toward his father. He swore that he will destroy his father’s current successes and be a big man in his father’s fields. Thanh kept moving on in his profession without the redemption of the past; he even did not care if he had a child. With him, money was everything. While he thought that nobody could stop him in controlling the market, a small company was established and tried to contract a project that the Sky of Thanh was also aiming at. The manager of the small company was Huy, he won the project from his crafty father.Since then, thing began to change, Sky fell down in the market and Thanh lost his CEO position and his pride when the press discovered his past. His wife divorced him. He finally found himself and his own redemption when he lost everything. He lived by himself and thought of what he had done. He realized that he was totally controlled by money. He had never had the feeling of peace since he knew about the death of his death’s girlfriend. Two year later, Huy came and let his father know that he would forgive his past. Thanh finally felt he was back to his life with a recovered heart.Similarly, Jeff Henderson in Cooked falls from the most insane richness into the prison to find out the redemption. The cause of JH’s Fall are the concupiscence, misguided success, and denial. However, the Fall is the beginning of a powerful recovery and redemption. His amazing adventure from the forgettable past is inspired by the imprisonment, the will to study and the resolution of to renew his own life. Concupiscence is one of the causes of JH’s Fall. Accordin g to McMahon’s blog Breakthrough Write, concupiscence is defined as the search for happiness based on gratifying pleasure and ego without a moral compass.Slowly going over JH’s life, we can easily symbolize him as the man of concupiscence. First, he gives himself a very reasonable, magnanimous ground which defends that he is pulling his family out of the poverty. Then, things begin to change when he has made so much easy money. With him, money never has the definition of adequateness. JH admits â€Å"he had eights car, each one worth more than $30,000, and it still wasn’t enough† (64). Crack dealing in Hard Head’s eyes is not illegal. He considers himself as a â€Å"businessman† while his job is killing hundreds of people consuming his drug.His so called â€Å"business† brings him a lot of money quickly enough for his awareness of value and labor to disappear. We need to make it clear between the self interest and the concupiscence in JH. More exactly, the positive self interest no longer exists in this man. The concupiscence controls JH in every step he makes when he is an immoral crack dealer. JH tries to satisfy his appetites in many unreasonably spending situations; in fact, his irrational expenditure just makes his demand of money go higher. It also means he is willing to trade more in his crazy so called business.He is a talented man in his business. Unfortunately, he easily lets himself follow the flow of the concupiscence, and the result of his irresponsible acts is the out of control life. Besides the concupiscence, misguided success is also the reason that partly creates the Fall of JH. When he is a little Hard Head he has been taught how to steal by his grandfather (Henderson 13). And one more time, he categorizes his grandfather’s stealing into the knightly acts. He says that â€Å"his grandfather was kind of like Robin Hood† (15).He slowly masters the stealing skills which he complimen ts about it as a proud achievement. We feel sorry for him because he is so deficient in the care of family although he still has father and mother. In fact, he has never lives in the really happy and safe childhood which every kid needs to have. T Row can be considered as the most influential element in forming JH’s characteristics and personality. T has the PhDs in game and he is extremely admired by JH. T is the replacement figure of JH’s ideal father with the weird ridiculous â€Å"homie love†.Like father like son, JH finally graduates from the â€Å"crack dealing institution† of T Row when T is sent to prison. In the book named Freakonomics, the economists discovering the hidden side of facts make a stunning conclusion that drug dealers still live with their moms! (Levitt and Dubner 103). According to their calculation, the foot soldiers like JH earn just $3. 30 an hour, less than the minimum wage (Levitt and Dubner 103). That is the reason why JH wan ts to go his own way. JH desires to become a new professor in the game that T Row is playing which means he will keep moving forward in his criminal activities.Educational misdirection leads Hard Head to the most serious Fall in his life, but he refuse to accept the truth that he is falling down from his insane wealth. He builds himself a thick, stable, undestroyable wall to protect his foolish criminal pride from the warning of his sister Cali Sim and family. He is absolutely insane about his success and tries to exaggerate its value by showing he is not about violence, taking drug or hanging out with gang bangers. He denies the fact that his drug dealing is extreme harmful and mortal.In practice, the victims of his business can be abandoned and addicted babies, neglected children, strung-out fathers, battered mothers, or an addicted young man in a car accident†¦ JH might not know that ninety percent of sentenced crack dealing cases in federal level are black, and he will be o ne of them (Brown). There is no doubt that JH is living in the illusion of insanity which means he is convinced that there is no truth and he is absolutely â€Å"untouchable†. He denies the wakening of his conscience because he is so under the spell of his virtual success and wealth.Being imprisoned is the best way to stop Jeff Henderson’s Fall. This Hard Head is like a bungee guy who has just jumped out of a bridge. He closes his eyes and enjoys the excitement of a free drop. He will never know where the stopping point is if his face is not slapped by the cool, pure and fresh surface of the river. The imprisonment plays a role as this river. It wakes JH up, holds his head and shakes it up. At last, he realizes that he has reached the bottom. Like a bungee jump, the end of the Fall is the beginning of a recovery. In prison, JH experience many unique things which essentially turn him into a new man.He finally knows that he is also vulnerable and helpless when he is stri ped in front of Fed officers (76). The feelings of weakness and lonesome make him keep praying to Jesus. We cannot imagine that Hard Head will cry in hopeless and regret. Crying will not help him out of the detention room, but crying shows us that there is something which stays deep inside this man’s soul is trying to pull him back with the real life. He painfully realizes how toxic his job was when he unintentionally witnesses a prisoner is dying because of a balloon of heroin (115). The fear of himself and his mortal job is rising day by day.The man with the PhD in the game now fully learns the most basic lesson: how far people would go to get high (Henderson 115). His philosophy of life changes to Nihilism which indicates a life without purposes, meaning and intrinsic value. This can be the most dangerous thing for his return because a man living in Nihilism is not different from a man without a soul and mind. It directly ruins his owns life and put a huge bold period for everything. But as we mentioned earlier, JH has PhD in the game, and when he truly finishes the course he is going to come back. Being imprisoned has recalled in JH the will of study.The hurting nineteen and half years punishment turns Anderson in to a totally new man. He learns how to read and to listen. He loses the passion for marriage and love. Instead, he concentrates on cooking; he wants to be a chef. He finally finds the passion which deserves to be pursued. Struggling with a dangerous life in prison helps JH horn his skill in confronting the problems. He is willing to work at the lowest position such as pot and pan room (Henderson 132) to get a change of promotion (Henderson 132). He built up for himself a strong endurance which supports him a lot in winning the popularity in prison and even after being released.He reads more; sometimes, he wondering if the black is dominated by the white. This thought never has a bad influence on him; in fact, it pushes him to study harder, to earn the respects from the people in his life. A determined goal and a resolution to be successful make JH stronger than ever. After the years renewing and training in prison, the fear still follows him like a ghost. His fear is undetermined; he calls it the â€Å"unknown† (Henderson 176). We might wonder if this Hard Head will return to his familiar path of his forgettable past, but we have to admit that his mind is refreshed and his skill day by day becomes more perfect.He is the person who truly knows the real value of cooking. In his point of view, cooking is not only an occupation but also the art of making food and the passion of facing new challenges. In the Cooked, there are at least four times JH move to a new location to pursue his cooking career. His efforts are paid by the prize Las Vegas Buffet Chef of the Year (Henderson 254). In that touching moment, nobody sees in him the figure of the past crack dealer but an impressive returning of a guilty soul.When a d oor is closed, there is always another door open. With JH, the door of the prison is closed behind him, and now he is opening the door which leads him to the world of the most famous chefs. JH would never have the feeling of real success and complete recovery if he had not been stopped by the Fed. His Fall is the result of concupiscence, the misguided success and the denial. Luckily, his life is saved by the imprisonment, his will of study and the resolution of renewing his life. It does not matter if we are black or white.We always have a chance to make a turning point for our life because â€Å"nobody pulled a gun on you to make you commit the crime; you made the choice† (Henderson 171). Works Cited Brown, Joseph H. â€Å"A pointless lament for crack dealer. † Headway 9. 10 (1997) Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. El Camino Coll Lib. , Torrance, CA. 22 Sep, 2009. Henderson, Jeff. Cooked. New York Times Bestseller, 2007. Levitt, Steven and Dubner, Stephen. Freakonomics. New York Times Bestseller, 2005. McMahon, Jeff. â€Å"1A Lesson #1 for Cooked†. Herculodge. typepad. com. July, 2009. El Camino Coll Lib. , Torrance, CA. 22 Sep, 2009.