Public Schools Segregation Essay

I was recently struck by one of the political cartoons in the SacramentoBee newspaper, which presented an image comparison of drinking fountains in two schools. It quickly reminded me of the racist Jim Crow laws from the 1880s-1960s and how racial segregation existed almost everywhere in the United States at that time. However, I realize that this cartoon doesn’t portray the concept of racial segregation with a Jim Crow joke, but it makes a commentary on social segregation among public schools in the United States today. I slowly realized that all American public schools are not the same due to funding. The huge difference exists in the public school system because their funding is associated with local property taxes. If a school is located in an affluent area with wealthier residents who pay high property taxes, schools will receive more funding (School Funding 1). Do you think this system is fair? If I ask affluent parents, they probably would answer that they pay high property taxes, so their money should go straight to nourish public schools in their areas. Meanwhile, if I were to ask parents in low socioeconomic areas, they would say that funds should be distributed from the state and not by the county, which would help in reducing the inequality between schools. Although sharing funds is not fair for many affluent people who pay more taxes, we should encourage state governments to aid the poorer schools more because it helps to reduce poverty and prevent crimes in lower income neighborhoods. The first reason that poorer schools should get more funds is to reduce poverty. People in low-income areas might not get the direct effect from school funding, but in the future, their kids will be benefited greatly. For those in the low income bracket, education can be a legitimate way to help them climb out of poverty. However, in reality, most of these poorer schools today are still not treated equally as their richer counterparts. Lisa Black, Chicago Tribune reporter reviewed the vast difference between two public schools in the Chicago area to illustrate this point. The first school, Taft Elementary School in Lockport can’t offer students any arts, language or technology classes because of the limited budget available. Meanwhile, Rondout Elementary School, near Lake Forest, offers language programs such as Spanish in every grade including kindergarten. Most students use laptops in the class, and they can enjoy band and chorus classes. They can choose to study various art, drama and dance as well (Black 1). If poor children had the same opportunity as their counterparts, imagine the growth it could represent to them educational. If they enjoyed studying, they could move on to obtain higher education by attending to colleges, meaning better-paying jobs. Therefore, funds should be available for all people. Young minds deserve the opportunity to choose the programs that they want to study. They should be able to study art and any other subject, as they desire to, regardless of how much property tax their parents pay. In general, I believe that a good education is the foundation that can pave the way to a better quality of life. Aside from reducing poverty, preventing crimes is another reason that poorer schools should receive more funds. Crimes in lower income areas derive from being unable to sustain a decent living. These types of crimes can be directly connected to a lack of education and opportunity. Geoffrey Wodtke, a sociologist at the University of Michigan, mentions in his article that kids in poor neighborhood have less chance to graduate from high school (Wodtke 1). He also states: Poor neighborhoods are isolated and racially segregated, with none of the quality schools, day care, grocery stores, pharmacies, and parks that can help promote a child’s development and academic achievement; and they are disproportionately smoggy, crime-ridden and dilapidated. All of these factors, the researchers note, have been linked to poor performance in school, often culminating in dropouts. (1) Wodtke claims that poor neighborhoods affect school performance, and this can impact a child’s learning directly. Some children quit the schools because they have no interest in schooling. Dropping out is and having no high school diploma will limit a job opportunities. When they are not qualified for many jobs, they can’t escape the pitfalls of poverty. Therefore, some of them end up finding illegal ways to make money while others affiliate themselves with gangs (Wodtke 2). This is the reason why school is so important, because it is a good place to start children on equal footing educationally with the chance to better themselves in the future. However, schools in low-income areas still need more funds to afford having a variety of programs such as language, art and sports. Schools also need to be able to hire and retain qualified teachers. Moreover, every school should be able to afford sport programs, which is a good physical outlet for youthful energy and encourages good health and teamwork. Art programs should also be available because they provide an outlet to express creativity. A wider variety of activities and educational alternatives can create brighter and more promising futures if given the opportunities. These children can become doctors, football players or artists in the future as long as they get a fair amount of support from the beginning. It’s difficult to change the living environment in poorer neighborhoods, but we can start by improving the school system to reshape the future of that community. Some people think that pouring money into poor schools is wasteful. They believe the reason schools become poorly performing ones is because they are full of under-achieving students who lack interest in the curriculum. Even if some schools get more funds, it will not change anything. It’s like treating symptoms, but not starting at the root of the problem. They believe that the government should provide more funding to schools with higher achieving students who potentially will become successful contributing members of the community. In other words, the state government should invest in the right schools and students. However, I believe this thought to be completely wrong. People who believe this will never know the potential of students in lower-income schools unless they are given a fair and equal opportunity to succeed. If poorer schools receive more funding, they will be able to provide better facilities and a stronger variety in the curriculum. These factors would increase the chances that we see more students grow into productive and successful adults despite coming from lower class surroundings. When every school has the same resources and variety of programs available to their youths, political cartoons like this one will be a thing of the past because the educational system’s inequalities will no longer be a joke. We should call for action on the funding to reform poorer schools because education can help in reducing poverty and crimes in these neighborhoods. Although affluent parents who work harder and pay more property taxes might oppose an idea of distributed funding to poor schools, they should think about economic consequences. If a gap between rich schools and poor schools is still expanding, how can the children of today become responsible adults in the future? If this country is the land of freedom and opportunity for everyone, I should hope that schools would be the first place to start by giving equal opportunities to all children. Poorer schools should receive equal opportunities like those of the children in wealthier communities. Schools should be a sacred place where all children of any social standing are afforded the same opportunities of unlimited educational growth. The more we see children shine in their youth, the more likely they will rise up to become successful in the future and this will help strengthen the future of the United States’ socially and economically.

Expressing Essay

My motto used to be; you can look pretty without being pretty. People used to ask me all the time what I mean by that. The reason why I used to say that is because used to be super insecure about my appearance. That should have been pretty rare for someone who cared about their clothes as much as did. Fashion and design were my escape, when I looked nice had all the confidence in the world, I just felt so much better about myself. I felt important. I never used to tell anyone what my insecurity was but recently I have learned and realized that everyone is insecure.I believe that every life needs balance. That people should be well rounded and appreciate diversity. You should feel comfortable expressing yourself, which is really what fashion is all about. Some people try to tell us that clothes don't matter. They try to tell us that inner beauty is more important than outer. We all would like to think that people care more about what's on the inside, but that's pretty far from the tru th. How you dress says a lot about you. I do believe that everyone should respect their bodies. Eel very strongly that fashion is the easiest and most effective way to express yourself. Fashion can bring lives together. Everyone has insecurities at one time in their life, insecurities define us. But they are also a measure of our strength. The question I ask myself and others is: Can we overcome our insecurities and be proud of ourselves? Strength is our defense against the world. We need to be secure and realize we allow our insecurities to disturb our peace of mind. Feel like if you focus those insecurities on a passion or hobby your life will be more at peace.You will feel more comfortable with yourself. It's not easy to overcome insecurities. It took me awhile but I soon figured it out. We are all an abortion of society. Accepted by a few, judged by all, and rejected by most. All Of the following reasons to learn to love yourself for who you are. If you don't love yourself nobod y will. Life is full of contrasts. It has its ups and downs, rights and wrongs. It frequently fails to live up to our expectations, which is why we often at times feel disappointed.There are going to be times that no matter how hard you try you just can't accept yourself as you are. Even though you're convincing yourself that you are good enough, it just doesn't seem to work. That's because society defines beauty for you. That doesn't mean you are not. Everyone is unique in their own way. Some may say you're adorable and mom might not. You can't please everybody. If you are fat, you're a glutton. If you're thin, you're anorexic. If you read, you're a nerd. If you don't, you're stupid.If you're friendly, you're fake. If you are silent, they call you rude. You just can't do something without being labeled by the society. Labels are not important so don't change yourself just because you don't fit their standards of who you should be and what you should do. No one's perfect, not even t he people who tell you that you aren't. Even if you put your heart, soul, skills and all you have in it, you will never find he perfection you are searching for because there is always a blemish in everything.Fight the negativity of life that is bothering you and think positive all the time. So stop wishing to become someone else. Stop hating your body or your personality and love them instead. If you do, you will learn to appreciate others imperfections and eventually, you can also help them recover and discover the beauty they have within. My new motto is; always remember that you are special and different from them and that difference makes you who you really are. I hope whoever reads this understands where am coming from and takes this to heart.

Written Project Base on Case Study

From the case we discuss, LabCo’s accounting policy for recognizes revenue from construction contract is reasonable. According to ASC605-35-25-61, an entity†¦ shall use the completed-contract†¦ for which reasonably dependable estimates cannot be made or for which inherent hazards make estimates doubtful. LabCo Company uses a normal standard for its accounting policy which is using Percentage of complection method base on how it determine the profit (cost-to-cost method); but in contract with Halibut, LabCo experiences unexpected difficulties includes: revising design, outsourcing engineering, price of material rising unforeseeably. These are the factors that make cost estimation harder. Percentage of Completion method is appropriate under ASC605-35-25-57, criteria B, The buyer can be expected to satisfy all obligations under the contract and C, The contractor can be expected to perform all contractual obligations. Completion of contract method is used according to ASC605-32-25-90, When lack of dependable estimates†¦inherent hazards relate to contract conditions or external factors that raise questions about contract estimates and about the ability of either the contractor or the customer to perform all obligations under the contract. Percentage of completion method is inappropriate for this contract, not only because it’s difficult to estimate the cost, but also the product fails to fulfill the buyer’s need. In this case, choosing completion of contract is better decision; based on previous experience, LabCo underestimate the cost and ability of complete the contract is the main reason forces them to change the policy. Change in method of accounting from the percentage-of-completion to the completed-contract is considering change in accounting principle. In ASC250-10-45-2, it states clearly about company can use alternative accounting principle to better interpret the current financial issues. According to ASC250-10-45-1, a presumption exists that an accounting principle once adopted shall†¦consistent use of the same accounting principle from one accounting period to another†¦and with a,b criteria. Once a new accounting principle is adopted, entity should consistently practice. Base on ASC250-10-45-5, entity should use retrospective approach apply for the new accounting principle. There are three basic requirements to do: A. Back to prior accounting period, the change of cumulative effect must be showed once apply the new principle. B. adjustment of the balance of retained earning must be made. C. Each individual financial statement from prior period shall apply the new principle. In LabCo’s case, once it changes the revenue recognition principle, the prior year’s revenue will become less in completion of contract method. Retain Earning account must be higher when using percentage of completion method. Therefore, retained earnings account needs to be adjusted. For current year, adjustment shall be made to beginning balance of retained earnings. Base on ASC250-10-45-8, Retrospective application shall include only the direct effects of a change in accounting principle, including any related income tax effects. Using retrospective approach shall contain direct effects, in this case would be income tax from prior period which should be less than the entity actual paid. Disclosure, ASC250-10-50-2 An entity that issues interim financial statements shall provide the required disclosures in the financial statements of both the interim period of the change and the annual period of the change. When reporting a change in Principle, explanation of why use new principle should be included. Work Cited Kieso, D. E., T. D. Warfield, and J. J. Weygandt.Intermediate accounting. 14th. Hoboken: John Wiley& Sons, Inc. , 2012. Print. https://asc.fasb.org/advancedsearchresults

Lies, Lies, Lies Essay

The white lie is an age old embellishment that has different reasons for being told. When it is all said and done a white lie is still a lie. A lie told with perfectly good intentions. A lie told to spare someone’s feelings. A lie about something trivial, which will have few consequences if you’re caught. A minor, polite, or harmless lie, a white lie is considered harmless as opposed to a black lie which is evil. Anything that is not accurate is a lie. There are a million reasons to tell a social white lie. Being nice leads to lying to prevent hurting someone’s feelings and it is commonly used by all. The baby in a stroller and the mother looks up, it is natural to say â€Å"What a cute baby† It could be the ugliest baby; yet the need to make a charitable response leads to a lie. Or Men say â€Å"I love you too† a white lie commonly told by men. The boss has on a dress that looks horrible, â€Å"What a beautiful dress† would someone tell the boss her dress is ugly. These are just examples of how we get caught up and we feel the need to say something positive instead of telling the truth. Lying begins early, if you observe children most know how to fib at the age of 4. By 6 they stop fibbing and begin lying. Watching and observing their parents, they gain insight in imitating their parents in the art of deception, they are told how to lie to relatives about gifts they may not like, and thus starts the white lies. The proverbial lie is used in our society to make small talk, to have someone show favor, when we greet someone, and we often lie to ourselves, â€Å"I am going to get up each day and walk.† I’ve said it, and I know I want to but I don’t. Salesman says anything you want to hear to sell a product. The doorman says â€Å"Have a good day†, no tip, doesn’t care if you even live another day almost every white lie is because of what a person wants to achieve with that white lie. It is almost second nature to living how we deceive, the Landlord I mailed that check yesterday. I lost my debt card can’t make the payment today will call as soon as I get my replacement! *I can’t come in today I have diarrhea; you’re going to the movie matinee. Researchers have been studying deception for decades, trying to figure out why we tell lies. It seems that our capacity for deceit appears nearly endless. That doesn’t mean we just tell a lie to hear it there is a purpose for the madness. Still lying is generally regarded as immoral and distasteful, â€Å"No one likes being lied to,† says former FBI agent and lying expert Joe Navarro. â€Å"We use lies to grease the wheels of social discourse.† Says University of Massachusetts psychologist Robert Feldman.

Child Nutrition Act of 1966 and Wic Analysis

Child Nutrition Act of 1966 and WIC Analysis a. How effective is the policy is in terms of solving the social problem. The Child Nutrition Act of 1966 has since formed and developed many programs beneath it to aid those in poverty. The five top producing programs under the Child Nutrition Act in fiscal year 2010 include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the National School Lunch Program, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), the Child and Adult Care Food Program, and the School Breakfast Program.WIC serves 45-50 % of all infants born in the United States (Facing Hunger in America, 2011, para. 3). According to Kowaleski-Jones & Duncan (2002), much of the research on the effects of WIC participation on children has focused on the potential benefits of increased use of prenatal care, increased Medicaid savings, better infant outcomes, and less infant mortality. In addition to the previously stated, WIC’s effecti veness can be supported by the perception of â€Å"WIC Works,† (Kowaleski-Jones, & Duncan, 2002).The observation that â€Å"WIC works,† is driven by the great deal of research for WIC partakers to birth healthier offspring (Kowaleski-Jones, & Duncan, 2002). For example, each dollar spent on WIC saved the state at least $1. 77 to $3. 13 in health care costs (Bitler, & Currie, 2004). According to Public Health Nurse Supervisor Luzette Samargia, of Duluth, Minnesota, WIC is effective and produces positive outcomes (Facing Hunger in America, 2011, para. 11).Luzette manages about 27 public health nurses and 3 dieticians, who as part of their jobs are highly trained to provide WIC health checks, breastfeeding encouragement, nutrition counseling for mothers and their young children, and appropriate WIC food vouchers (Facing Hunger in America, 2011, para. 7). According to Luzette: WIC has generally not been found to significantly change food patterns of participants or to redu ce the incidence of obesity. Thus, WIC programs are increasing their focus on nutrition education.And in 2009 the WIC nutrition advice and foods available with WIC vouchers were completely updated in accordance with current USDA guidelines. For example, WIC vouchers may now be used for fresh fruits and vegetables, more whole-grain products are required and only milk with 2 percent or lower fat content is authorized for women and children age 2 and older (Facing Hunger in America, 2011, para. 12). WIC’s goal is not to end poverty and solve all problems amongst it. WIC’s purpose is to aid those in need and supplement their nutritional prerequisites.Breastfeeding an infant is vital to a newborns development, yet not everyone has this knowledge. WIC does offer free infant formula to its participants but strongly encourages mothers to breastfeed. b. Describe the policy’s strengths and limitations Limitations involved when discussing WIC can be drawn to breastfeeding rates. Because WIC provides free infant formula, breastfeeding rates have been a hot topic amongst WIC participants. However, according to the National WIC Association breastfeeding rates have slightly risen in recent years.In the year 2004, approximately 55% of mother’s participating in WIC’s benefits were breastfeeding; in the year 2010 rates had increased to over 60% (National WIC Association [NWA], 2011). An additional limitation involved with WIC is of course funding (Mahoney, 2008). Each year Congress authorizes just how much of funding will be allotted for the WIC program (Mahoney, 2008, pg. 4) According to the USDA: They requested $6. 1 billion for the WIC Program for fiscal year 2009, a 1. 3% increase from fiscal year 2008.This request was based on projected increases in participation and food costs, and the USDA’s proposal to limit nutrition services, cut administrative costs, and to restrict eligibility for Medicaid recipients – a proposal reje cted by Congress for fiscal year 2008 (Mahoney, 2008, pg. 4). With inflation rates continually on the rise and because WIC is not an entitlement program, if funds are not available eligible participants at nutritional risk may not receive the supplemental nutrients as they have in the past (Mahoney, 2008, pg. 5).In contrast to limitations WIC also has much strength. In Indiana alone, according to the National WIC Association in the fiscal year of 2011 167,875 women, infants, and children participated (National WIC Association [NWA], 2013, pg. 1). WIC is preparing ways in which women can avoid the long lines, the stigma, and hassle when purchasing nutritious foods. Indiana is currently preparing plans in converting the WIC program to the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) by 2020 (NWA, 2013, pg. 2) c. Who gains and who loses as a result of the policy? . Are there people in need who are left out? Who is left out? WIC serves a tightly-defined population – strictly low to moderate income, nutritionally at-risk pregnant women, breastfeeding women, non-breastfeeding postpartum women, infants, and children up to their fifth birthday (Facing Hunger in America, 2011). Participants of WIC’s family members may benefit from participation, yet if you were not mentioned previously you may be left out from receiving WIC benefits. e. Is the policy addressing only a portion of a larger issue?What is the larger issue? f. Does the policy improve social well-being? Explain in detail. g. Does the policy advance the cause of social and economic justice? References Bitler, M. , & Currie, J. (2004, June). Does wic work? The effects of wic on pregnancy and birth outcomes. Retrieved from http://www. econ. ucla. edu/people/papers/currie/more/prams. pdf Facing Hunger in America. (2011, June 23). Wic works. Retrieved from http://facinghungerinamerica. blogspot. com/2011/06/wic-works. html Kowaleski-Jones, L, & Duncan, G. (2002).Effects of participation in the wic program on b irthweight: Evidence from the longitudinal survey of youth. American Journal of Public Health, 92(5), 799-804. Retrieved from http://www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC1447164/ Mahoney, M. (2008). The special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, & children (wic): Opportunities to influence participants’ health in Minnesota. Tobacco Law Center. Retrieved from http://phlc. stylefish. com/sites/default/files/resources/phlc-policy-wic. pdf National WIC Association. (2011). Advocacy action center.Retrieved from http://www. nwica. org/? q=advocacy/1 National WIC Association. (2013, January). How wic impacts the people of Indiana. Retrieved from http://www. paramountcommunication. com/nwica/Indiana. pdf National WIC Association. (2011, November). Wic funding: What does sequestration mean for wic’s future? Retrieved from http://www. paramountcommunication. com/nwica/WICSequestration. pdf Neuberger, Z. (2013, March 5). Sequestration could deny nutrition deny up to 750,000 at-Risk low-Income women and children. Center and Budget and Policy Priorities.Retrieved from http://www. offthechartsblog. org/category/food-assistance/child-nutrition-and-wic/ Neuberger, Z. , & Greenstein, B. (2013, March 5). The impact of the sequester on wic: 575,000 to 750,00 eligible low income women and children at nutritional risk could be denied benefits. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Retrieved from http://www. cbpp. org/files/2-26-13fa. pdf Studymode. (2010, February). Social welfare: Wic schema. Retrieved from http://www. studymode. com/essays/Social-Welfare-Wic-Schema-285472. html Whaley, S. E. , Koleilat, M. , Whaley, M. Gomez, J. , Meehan, K. , & Saluja, K. (2012). Impact of the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. American Journal Of Public Health, 102(12), 2269-2273. doi:10. 2105/AJPH. 2012. 300770 Wolf, J. (n. d. ). Wic: Women, infants, & children. Retrieved from http://singleparents. about. com/od/financi alhel1/p/wic. htm U. S. Department of Agriculture. (2011, March). The food assistance landscape. (Economic Information Bulletin No. 6-8). Washington DC: Economic Research Service. Retrieved from http://www. ers. usda. gov/media/129642/eib6-8. pdf

Job analysis on Priority Plastics Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Job analysis on Priority Plastics - Case Study Example To achieve this goal, Priority Plastics, Inc. needs a job analysis plan. In essence, job analysis creates job descriptions that in turn define the duties and responsibilities of the employee. The realized job description also highlights qualification requirements desired by the employer, as well as how they relate or enhance job performance. The first step in Priority Plastics, Inc.’s plan is to determine the scope of its human resource needs. As the situation stands, the company needs to hire more employees, replace those who are leaving the company, and fill other vacant positions in other departments. In this respect, the scope is relatively wide because it covers other departments within the firm. The second step in the plan is to define the process and procedure of developing job descriptions. In this case, this effort will be an interdepartmental affair. The Human resource manager and the part-time HR Generalist need to consult with employees, supervisors, managers, and other stakeholders to determine the possible number of positions that need to be created in the company. Once this is determined, the plan goes to the next level. After consulting with key stakeholders about every aspect that relates to the company’s hiring needs, the next step is to undertake job audits. Job auditing evaluates the current human resource structuring to identify areas of success, failure, overlaps, or gaps in the human resource system (Robinson & Franklin, 2013). The primary goal of job audits is to match employees with what they are currently doing in the firm and determine areas of improvement in the next hiring cycle. In essence, the planned hiring should come in to make the company even more effective and efficient. Following job auditing, it will be clear which employees handle which tasks, and what duties or responsibilities should be directed towards new employees (Wilson, Bennett,

Business Taxation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Business Taxation - Essay Example Theoretical findings have however undermined the notion of state spending. This has been backed up by an important strand in political science that have argued a declined trust and accountability on most state institutions. On the other hand, sociology has claimed that citizens have become more individualistic, reflective and more oriented on the responsibilities for meeting their own needs. Bilodueu, M (1996) Considerable increases in health expenditure were inaugurated by Gordon Brown in his substantial speech in 2002. This however was implemented in the year 2003 and was spread over a period of 5 years cumulatively. Long term reviews were evaluated where increased taxes were realized to support the health domain. The implicit is that the biggest ratios of the enhanced taxes in the exchequer's receipts were responsible for the rates of NICs for employees, employers and self-employed. The rate of the NICs rose by 1% point to a rate of 11% on cumulative earnings between basic threshold and the upper earning limit. The NIC in this case was levied an increased 1% percentage point to a 12.8% earning rate above the elementary threshold. The NIC was increased by 1% to appoint of 8% on collective earnings between the lower profits limit and the upper profits limit. The income tax personal allowance was therefore to be frozen at this stage from 2002-2003. The report of the Royal Commission on th e Taxation of Profits and Incomes (1955) The measures rose to 8.6 million by 2003-04; the collective increasement in employee's NICs was 3.55 billion, the total increase in employer's NIC was at 3.9 billion and the total increase in self employment NICs was at 0.45 billion. The freezing of the NICs threshold brought about 0.25billion. This was the government's decision that was hinged on supporting a holistic insurance policy that meet the rising costs of medical advances and hence offering a security measure upon the Britons in a required manner. In supporting the health sector the renewal of the shared national agreement encompassing the NHS was to be run through taxation. The way forward was through initiating of new audit systems that integrated money paid to benefits received and having also resolved after deliberation to exempt the elderly and the vulnerable. Troup, E. (1992) Introduction One on the concrete reasons for levying taxes on goods such as alcohol and tobacco is the culture that consumers hold inconsistence preferences for these goods and that it's the obligation of the government to protect the consumption of these harmful elements by deterring consumers from partaking of the same. Alcohol and tobacco pose a potential threat on the consumers and also on those who do not indulge into the usage. This grants the government the rationale to enter the market and hike the price of harmful goods that could otherwise endanger the society; this reduces the levels of demand. The harmful commodities pose a health hazard known as the merit good. From the categorical perception of equity, taking harmful goods could otherwise help in revamping health conditions, which is financed using taxed revenues. It has been agreed that excise tax levies generate colossal monetary value for the governments. The causality of taxing this goods however spark a lot of controversies sin ce it's not clear whether

Math Economics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Math Economics - Assignment Example If the price of a close substitute—a product that you view as similar or identical to the one you are considering purchasing—is much lower than the price of Levi’s jeans, you may buy that other brand instead. The price of a complement, , -a good that you like to consume at the same time as the product you are considering buying—may affect your decision. If you eat pie only with ice cream, the higher the price of ice cream, the less likely you are to buy pie 3. Consider a profit maximizing firm which rents capital K at rate R in order to produce goods q via the production function . Assume the firm takes the goods price as given. If determine the firm’s demand for capital. Compute the marginal rate of substitution (MRS) between goods x and y. Compute an equation characterizing the agent’s indifference curve, and compute the slope of this curve. Compare this slope to the MRS. Use the MRS to compute the demand curves for x and y. Are the goods x and y complements? Substitutes? Now that we have the marginal rate of substitution, we can find out what happens to the relative consumption of X and Y as we move along the consumer’s indifference curve. To see what occurs as X increases, we take the partial derivative of MRS XY with respect to X: The consumer’s marginal rate of substitution — the slope of the indifference curve — remains the same as her consumption of X increases or decreases along the indifference curve. In other words, the consumption of commodity X has no any direct effect on consumption of commodity Y. thus the goods are not substitute but are compliments to each

The Judicial System in the Bahamas Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Judicial System in the Bahamas - Essay Example (March 14, 2010) Among the causal factors of this situation that is pointed out is the country’s problem with its bail system. Many law enforcers and prosecutors have admitted that unless rules in bail are amended, even the suspects of heinous crimes can easily avoid being jailed or even prosecution. Attorney General John Delaney had â€Å"acknowledged that a growing number of people on bail are allegedly committing other crimes.† (Rolle) He said this while he was batting for the amendment of the Bail Act. Among the proposed amendments are the restrictions of the right to bail of those suspects of heinous crimes as well as those that have been repeat offenders. Certain sectors in Bahamian society and some lawmakers, however, have expressed opposition to the move to amend the Bail Act in favor of more restrictive options. Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, for his part, believed that the proposed amendment is valid and urgent. In an article in the Bahamas Post, he said that some believe â€Å"that bail is a right and that there is nothing we can do to prevent persons from being placed on bail.† (May 26, 2010) The Prime Minister, however, vehemently considers this idea as very wrong. Nevertheless, the motion for amending the Bail Act has ignited a new debate within Bahamian society. This author, however, believes that the Bail Act must indeed be adapted to the current situation. In particular, its provisions on repeat offenders should be changed in order to ensure that they will no longer be able to easily apply for bail. One of the three main points related to this argument is that the soft nature of the Bail Act is no longer suitable to the worsening crime situation in the country. The Bail Act’s leniency was appropriate only during that time when Bahamian society was not yet beset with crime. It is logical that it be amended because laws are supposed to be changed or repealed when these are no longer applicable to current

Legal systems and skills Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Legal systems and skills - Essay Example The House of Lords (HL) believed that the Act’s purpose was meant to protect human embryos made externally, rather than the manner in which the embryo formed. They ruled that parliament did not intend any distinguishing between CNR and fertilization created embryos, especially since CNR at the time was thought impossible. The HL decided that parliament did not mean to leave CNR formed embryos unregulated; therefore, the Act applied. For this reason, the Court opined that CNR was legal. Summarize the facts and legal arguments in this case Bruno Quintavalle undertook litigation on behalf of a claimant, Pro-life Alliance, in order to seek a declaration that CNR created human embryos were not created via fertilization. He claimed that embryos from CNR were not within an embryo’s definition for the Act’s purpose. The Secretary of State, as the defendant, argued that Section 1(1) of the HFE Act should be purposively interpreted so that the fundamental subject the Act r eferred to was a live human embryo, rather than the manner in which the embryo was created1. The sub-section, in this case, would be read with the words, defining the embryo was a live human embryo where fertilization has been completed, in the event that the embryo was produced by fertilization2. Parliament’s clear intention, thus, was the control of human reproduction through licensing or prohibition using the HFE Act. Crane J., despite acknowledging that purposive interpretation was a powerful argument, he held that this interpretation would allow an impermissible extension and re-writing of the definition3. Crane J.’s decision, however, was appealed successfully by the Secretary of State for Health with Lord Phillips MR, who gave the Court of Appeal’s main judgment, contended that parliament’s legislation was mostly related to how embryos were treated. Therefore, although the legislation expressly contemplated embryos as being created through fertiliz ation, the question, fundamentally, was whether the CRN produced embryos did fall into a similar category or genus as fertilization-produced embryos. Considering that both embryo types were fundamentally identical in their ability to develop into adults of their relevant species, the two types of embryos were clearly held as being in the same genus4. As far as legislative policy was concerned, Lord Phillips held that the intention of parliament was in order to control the use and creation of human cells; therefore, it was essential that those embryos created through CNR should be considered as part of the regulatory scheme that the Act created. In addition, the Master of the Rolls contended that no countervailing considerations existed that could militate against a purposive approach to the case. Even though, some of the provisions in the legislation were not applicable to CNR created embryos, it did not remove the importance of enhancing effect of parliament’s intention. The se inconsistencies were not as serious because, in various cases, they are remediable by HFE Act regulations, and in some different cases, they do not have much practical significance that those embryos produced through CNR should undergo exclusion from the HFE Act. After the Appeals Court, denied authorization of appealing against this judgment, the petitioners were still able to petition the HL successfully5. However, following Pro-life

Services problem of Samsung (White paper) Essay

Services problem of Samsung (White paper) - Essay Example One of the critical areas is customer service, and Samsung suffers an epic service problem. In order to correct this problem, a PRS program needs to be implemented. It is cost effective and will spare the company revenue which will have been lost by disgruntled customers. Brand 2 is an international customer relation consultant with an access to the best minds in the service providers. It has a long history and a wide range of customer relations programs and successes in the media industry. Samsung does not require bad publicity in a highly competitive world. Bad publicity tends to scare aware prospective investors and potential customers. Brand 2 can change that and ensure that not only satisfied customers, but also an efficient service team that responds, connects and performs to its level best. This problem is underscored. Samsung customer service ranks no 465 out of the 747 companies that have a Customer Service Scoreboard rating. According to the survey of 1,771 customers of Samsung, there are 1,692 negative comments. This is an overall score of 29.97 out of a possible 200 based upon 1831 ratings. The score rates Samsung customer service and customer support as inadequate. With the highly competitive nature of the technology industry this might be the waterloo of Samsung. Most customers complained of the staff rudeness and dishonesty. The negative comments keep repeating themselves. This is not only a ticking time bomb but a disaster as far as public relation is concerned. For a company of Samsung nature this certainly something that needs urgent attention. The general nature of mankind is to promote negativity; in as far as customer relation is concerned, this poses a major risk. Negative news sells. (KS consulting limited) Unhappy customers spread the word! Depending on the industry this can even be worse. Today, the dangers of negative word-of-mouth are copious;

Religion and International Relation - West and Islam Research Paper

Religion and International Relation - West and Islam - Research Paper Example This approach made the Muslim world hate the West to an extent that they disregarded all the successful ways of government of the West also and refused to modernize as they saw modernization as copying the West. This hatred became strong because of the continuous attack of the West for their interests. Be it Iran, Iraq, Palestine or Afghanistan; the decisions of the West were always seen as undemocratic and hostile. West always chose to meet their personal interests and not considering the interest of the people of the country it attacked. This selfish approach of the West made the Muslim world hate the West and these anti-West sentiments developed into religious extremism and made the non-state actors in these Muslim countries to spoil the image of Islam in the global world. The West should understand that it is largely responsible for this treatment of the people in the Muslim world; therefore, it should try to sincerely make efforts to help the Muslim countries develop and regain their past glory. TABLE OF CONTENTS ISLAM AND THE WEST – AN INTRODUCTION 3 ISLAM AND WEST- AN IDEOLOGICAL CLASH 5 INCIDENTS THAT EXACERBATED THE CONFLICT 5 The 9/11 attacks 5 The Arab spring 7 Post Arab Spring, West and the US 8 Palestine-Israel Issue 8 RELIGION AND POLITICS – A BACKGROUND 10 MARX AND FREUD ON RELIGION 11 ISLAM AND CHRISTINIATY – SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES 13 ROOT OF THE CLASH 14 HOW TO RESOLVE THIS CLASH? 17 FORMING A MODERN SOCIETY – A CONCLUSION 18 ISLAM AND THE WEST – AN INTRODUCTION Islam and the West are different entities in many ways, but because of the globalization in the world; we see that there is an increasing interaction between these two entities, which becomes a reason for conflict in many situations. Islam, being one of the oldest religions in the world, and being the second most followed religion in the world after Christianity is seen as a threat to the West. There are many things similar between Christianity a nd Islam including monotheism; however, there is a clear ideological clash between the two due to their very believes and ideas. Islam believes in oneness of God, finality of the prophet-hood and the Qur’an. Muslims can be categorized as very religious and not very religious and they belong to every part of the world, and belong to varying ethnic backgrounds and social classes. They believe in traditions and family and try to keep themselves as aloof from the worldly pleasures as possible. They are proud of their rich culture and their glorious past and want that past to come back. On the other hand, West means the Europe, North America and Australia which is predominantly Christian. The term is more of a geographical classification based on their concept of valuing modernization and technology. They highly regard material pleasures and are secular in their attitudes and beliefs. There is a clear difference in the belief system of the two entities; however, it will be wrong t o say that they are completely two different entities. These days, the Muslim minority of the West is increasing which is making the West to make effort to integrate this minority. These Muslims living in the West are Muslims belonging to different parts of the world, sharing different backgrounds but united because of the concept of monotheism, prophet hood and the holy Qur’an. These Muslims are increasingly taking part in every field of life in the West and are playing an important role in the economic development of the West. Similarly, there are many people living in the Muslim countries that belong to the West and

Chinas increasing presence in sub-Saharan Africa Literature review

Chinas increasing presence in sub-Saharan Africa - Literature review Example Kaplinsky, McCormick, and Morris (2007, p.3) note that China is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. The speedy development has particularly been experienced over the last few decades. The growth has been attributed to the economic restricting coupled with improved efficiency (Adisu, Sharkey, and Okoroafo 2010). Data shows that China was the third largest economy in the world in 2004, but at the same time ranked 129th in terms of per capita because it is the most populous country in the world with over a billion people according to the World Development Indicators (Bloomberg 2010). The Central bank of China projected that the economy of the country was to grow by 9.2% in 2006 (Trofimov 2007). However, as at the second quarter of 2006, the Chinese economy had grown by 11.3%, which was the highest in the world in 2006 according to De Lorenzo (2007). The growth in Chinese economy is also attributed to its active role in the global economy, particularly in Sub-Saharan countries where China has invested heavily over the last few decades. As at 2006, the Chinese economy was projected to overtake the U.K. and become the fourth largest in the world. China obtains more than 28% of its gas and oil from sub-Saharan Africa, which among the highest inn the world according to Ajakaiye (2006, p.11-13). Sautman and Hairong (2007, p.16-18) note that the growth of trade between China and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has improved significantly over the last few decades. In this regard, the data available shows that in 2003, the transaction between China and SAA was valued at $18.5 billion, which was a significant improvement in comparison to the 2002, which registered $12.39 billion. (Swartz and Hall 2010). Presently China ranks among the top trading partners with SSA with Gabon being the second largest client after the U.S. Some of the SSA where Chinese investments are highly noticeable includes Kenya, Benin, Nigeria, Angola, South Africa, and Tanzania, Algeria and South Africa just to name but a few (Taylor 2006, P. 937-939). The Chinese companies, particularly the Building and Public Works (BPW) are competing actively against other companies in Africa (Muekalia 2004). This is evident from the Chinese increase in infrastructural projects, a field that many experts say China has high expe rtise as noted by Zafar (2007). China’s motives for its presence in Africa Oil deposits are arguably one of the reasons why China has had a lot of interest in investing in SSA. Kaplinsky, McCormick and Morris (2007, p.14) reveal that the government of China has all a long been very anxious regarding the country’s energy dependency. For instance, Kaplinsky, McCormick and Morris (2007) note that China was the eighth leading oil importer in 2000 and rose to fourth in 2006. China’s oil import was projected to increase to the extent that it was likely to overtake countries like Japan and Japan by 2010 (Fine, and Jomo 2005, p.76). ORAM (2005) cites that the dependency on oil imports present a major challenge to the international duty china intends to undertake. A report shows that Indonesia, Iran, and Oman, for a long time, have been the principle suppliers of oil to China (Anshan 2007, P.70). However, some of the oil producing countries that China has depended on is undergoing depletion such as the Indonesian oil reserves. Further, the U.S. has been able to consolidate its control over Middle East Oil except Iran since its intervention in Iraq (Wang and Bio-Tchane 2008). In addition, the oil deposits in

Clinical Audit Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Clinical Audit - Research Paper Example Between September 20th 2010 and September 22nd 2010, 21 surgical procedures were to be carried out on 21 patients. 11 elective patients were to receive Co-Amoxiclav. While some of them were to receive only Co-Amoxiclav others were to receive combinations that included Co-Amoxiclav. While 12 procedures out of 21 complied with guidelines the rest was of a diverse character such as non compliance, unavailability of guidelines and antibiotics being out of compliance guidelines. According to this analysis it is clear that antimicrobial prophylaxis was to be given to elective patients either a few hours before or during the procedure. Though the level of compliance was considerable there was no proper indication as to how much such compliance produced qualitative and quantitative positive results by way of increasing the degree of response by patients to antimicrobial prophylaxis. Between September 23rd 2010 and September 25th 2010, 14 surgical procedures were to be carried out on 14 patie nts. 7 elective patients were to be given Co-Amoxiclav. Only 4 patients out of 7 were given Co-Amoxiclav while others were given combinations that included Co-Amoxiclav. Only 9 procedures out of 14 complied with guidelines and the other procedures were of a different character. While some of them were to receive only Co-Amoxiclav others were to receive combinations that included Co-Amoxiclav. From September 29th 2010 to October 01st 2010, 25 surgical procedures were carried out on 25 patients.... According to this analysis it is clear that antimicrobial prophylaxis was to be given to elective patients either a few hours before or during the procedure. Though the level of compliance was considerable there was no proper indication as to how much such compliance produced qualitative and quantitative positive results by way of increasing the degree of response by patients to antimicrobial prophylaxis. Between September 23rd 2010 and September 25th 2010, 14 surgical procedures were to be carried out on 14 patients. 7 elective patients were to be given Co-Amoxiclav. Only 4 patients out of 7 were given Co-Amoxiclav while others were given combinations that included Co-Amoxiclav. Only 9 procedures out of 14 complied with guidelines and the other procedures were of a different character. For example there were cases of non compliance and therefore the efficacy of antimicrobial prophylaxis could not be determined. Between September 26th 2010 and September 28th 2010, 19 surgical procedures were to be carried out on 19 patients. 10 elective patients were to receive Co-Amoxiclav. While some of them were to receive only Co-Amoxiclav others were to receive combinations that included Co-Amoxiclav. For example Teicoplanin, Gentamicin, Metronidazol were other antibiotics received by the patients. 14 procedures were complied with the guideline out of 19 procedures while the other procedures did not comply with the guidelines due to various reasons such as missing guidelines, antibiotics being out of compliance guidelines and procedures being cancelled. From September 29th 2010 to October 01st 2010, 25 surgical procedures were carried out on 25 patients. 11 elective patients were given

Effect of Foreign Direct Investment on China's Economic Performance Essay

Effect of Foreign Direct Investment on China's Economic Performance - Essay Example The Chinese understand this very well. While relying mainly on its own forces to bring about modernization, China, as a developing country, has to win foreign assistance, actively develop economic cooperation, and reasonably use and absorb foreign technology useful to its overall economic development. For these reasons, China forged ahead with its decisive policy to set up Social and Economic Zones (SEZs) and designated fourteen opened cities to attract world resources. It is obvious that the SEZs and opened cities have performed the functions set out for them to the extent possible at this stage of their development. Foreign capital, technology, and equipment have been introduced, competition has been promoted, and the training of personnel has occurred. Indeed, the SEZs and opened cities represent the focus of a substantial share of all foreign investment flows to China, and significant economic development has been achieved. ... Indeed, the SEZs and opened cities represent the focus of a substantial share of all foreign investment flows to China, and significant economic development has been achieved. More important than their enormous vitality in absorbing and utilizing foreign capital and importing advanced technology, the SEZs and opened cities represent a significant pioneering undertaking by China in carrying out the policy of opening the country to the outside world and in serving as experimental centres in economic structural reform to create a completely new set of conditions for economic development. As such, a new avenue has been opened, creating opportunities for foreign investors wishing to become involved in a rapidly expanding Chinese marketplace Strong foreign investment inflows to China were not unique during the 1990s. Significant inflows to other Asian countries also occurred during the same period. Compared with representative neighbouring countries, investment flows into China were large in absolute amount but remained relatively small in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) and gross investment (GI). Foreign equity investment into Singapore between 1990 and 1999 accounted for about 15 percent of GDP and financed more than one-third of Singapore's total capital expansion. The same ratios for China were only 0.7 and 1.8 percent, respectively. Even when compared with Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, the ratios for China were extremely low. (Woo, 2001, 110) China enjoys several advantages in attracting foreign investment compared with other Asian countries. First, it has a large domestic market that provides potentially enormous opportunities for foreign investors. Second, it has abundant natural

Marketing paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Marketing - Research Paper Example 9 Important similarities 9 Do you think SustainU should offer its products direct to consumer (i.e. online, have their own branded retail stores) or partner with retailers to sell their products on their behalf...or both? Why? If you choose to partner with existing retailers, name a few examples you would recommend they partner with and why. 11 Recommend a key message (tagline, campaign slogan or potential marketing theme for a campaign) SustainU should consistently integrate. Would you use one of their existing messages such as "Change Your Clothes. Change Your World" or "Wear a Better Story" or something else (200) 12 Key message 12 Come up with and describe a PR "stunt" to attract awareness towards SustainU's business and messages. 13 Public Relation Stunt 13 Focusing on SustainU's website, recommend the sales promotions you would use and why (contest? sweepstakes? coupon code? etc.) 14 Recommend sales promotion 14 Qualities important for sales people. What makes SustainU's approa ch different than a stereotypical sales pitch? 15 16 Reference 17 . SustainU Product Depth and Breadth Recycled Apparels Alpha Wiki Vital Hybrid Zealot Uriel Zip The recycled apparel is the company’s product breadth and depth comprises of Alpha Wiki, vital, Hybrid, Zealot and Uriel Zip (SustainU, â€Å"Products†). The suggested product line for SustainU is Shoes and bags. Make suggestions for added product lines and/or product categories SustainU can add more on its product line and categories. The company deals with recycled apparel which proves to be beneficial for the environment, therefore the company can come up some more product lines like skirts, trousers, shirts both in formal as well casual. SustainU deals in recycled apparels particularly pull over and t shirts, thus it can extend its product line which would help to create an eco friendly environment. Evaluate SustainU's branding components The mission and goal of SustainU is to make a change in the way clot hes are made so to improve the environment, reinvigorate the manufacturing sector of America and educate the world that clothing can impact the lives in a positive way. Thus the tagline of SustainU suits its goal and mission which says ‘Change your clothes. Change the world’. The brand name ‘SustainU’ in the context of recycle would mean to sustain the environment and the color green in its logo depicts the company’s goal and mission. The logo is the alphabet S, maybe the initial of SustainU with green and black embedded on it. The black color may symbolize that the environment is getting polluted, and green a symbol of live with their recycled clothing. Thus the current branding strategy suits its mission and goal. The logo can be revised a bit which would help to create awareness about its recycled apparel, also the company can go for mascot, with the color green on it depicting to save the environment and its safe wearing SustainU apparel. This wa y the company would be able to generate awareness about its recycled apparel not only in America but to the world as such. Recommend a new product for SustainU and explain your reasoning behind this recommendation Recommendation SustainU can extend its product line by producing recycled shoes and bags. Shoes are required by all

Marks and Spencer and Global Environmental Factors Essay

Marks and Spencer and Global Environmental Factors - Essay Example Marks and Spencer is a highly successful giant operating in the UK retail sector. The success of the organization has been due to its clear mission statement and vision. It has managed to become a powerful and vibrant brand in the UK for the past one hundred years. A diverse product line enables the organization to achieve efficiency and effectiveness. It has premium products that cater to the unique requirements of various segments. Marks and Spencer pursues a dynamic business strategy in which its tries to give the consumer a sense of attachment and feeling with specific brands. This is a highly successful strategy that has enabled excellence and quality at operational and strategic levels. Marketing operations of the organization is also based upon applying smart and prudent strategies. Marks and Spencer conducts an extensive research and appraisal of the business environment. It determines clear and precise goals based upon its strengths and weaknesses. Appropriate business strat egies are formulated in order to take advantage of business opportunities. The organization seeks to use its core competencies.The rapid rise of globalization has created tremendous opportunities for business organizations. However it has led to significant challenges for business processes and structures. In the twenty first century, marketing staff cannot ignore the importance of global environmental factors. These factors need to be studied and analyzed in order to achieve optimum results.

Response of the In The Mood for Love Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Response of the In The Mood for Love - Essay Example Chow gets a job in Singapore after awhile and is forced to move. He invites his lover Su to join him but she arrives for departure late and Chow leaves without her. In the following year, however, Su goes to Hong Kong too and stops at Chow’s, calls him but remains quiet on phone. Chow later realizes that Su had been to his house when he discovers lipstick stains on his cigarette ashtray. 3 years later, Su inquires from Mrs. Suen if her apartment is available for renting since Mrs. Suen is relocating to the United States. Later on, Chow goes to visit the Koos, his landlords, and finds that they have gone to the Philippines. He asks about the Suen family living next door and is informed that a woman and her son reside there-in. he lives without discovering that the woman in question is Su. The film ends in regret as Chow whispers his sadness of what could have been on the hole in the wall then seals it with mud (In the Mood for Love, 2000). The characters in the film change in search of better careers and also rent a hotel room where they can change their identities away from the increasingly suspicious glances of the neighbors. They do this to share their love, overcome loneliness and the heartache of unfaithful spouses. When they separate, we see them both become nostalgic of their past together and regret their separation, dreaming of re-union someday. Hong Kong films such as In the Mood for Love are not only about martial arts but in them we see various aspects of life such as nostalgia, search of new identities, love and lifestyles in the characters featured there-in. the movie is a heart aching and eye bewitching masterwork. Simply put, the film is not entirely about a story about two lovers but actually depicts life and reconstructs memories of life in the Hong Kong in the early 1960s. The movie that has since garnered a plethora of notable awards is a stylistic masterpiece for numerous

The decline of the Great Muslim Empires Essay Example for Free

The decline of the Great Muslim Empires Essay From the middle of the fifteenth century and up to the end of the eighteenth century three Great Muslim Empires had been dominating in the Islamic zone of then world: the Ottoman Empire in Asia Minor, the Mughal Empire in India, and the Safavid Empire in Persia, forming the most rapidly expanding forces in world affairs (Kennedy 1989). They all failed sooner or later due to the internal factors such as weakening of centralized political control, excessive enlargement of the territories, religious diversity, and rulers conservatism resulted in failure to implement the modern technologies (Kennedy 1989). The prevailing factors of their sunset were not the same for each of them, although there were several common ones. But the major contribution to the process of their decay was made by the outer world. Internal weaknesses were enough to wreck the Muslim empires, but each also failed to recognize the threat to their dominance posed by the rise of the West. By the beginning of the seventeenth century the main world communication routes didnt pass through the Middle East any more and the European states dominated at sea turning a profit from their advances in science and technology and successfully carrying out the gunpowder policy as well as promoting their trade on the territories earlier controlled by the Muslim empires (Wells 1933). To find the factors which led to the decline of the Great Mughals, the Safavid Dynasty, and the Ottoman Empire, while the Europeans went ahead, we should investigate their features, compare them and draw a conclusion.   Considering chronology of their decline, one can find a certain similarity – the period of extinction went along by the reign of a certain leader: the Ottomans fell apart after Suleyman the Lawgiver rule, the Safavids – by the end of Abbas Is reign, and the Mughals – after Aurangzers rule. The timing of collapse for the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal empires substantially differ. While the Ottoman state declined for the period of three centuries, the Safavids drop was much faster as well as those of the Great Mughals. The reason of rapid Safavids decay noticeably lied in the uselessness to defend from the neighboring Ottoman Empire in the seventeenth century resulted in complacence of the Safavid Shans, their growing corruption and decadence. The Mughal Empires fall is owed to heavy hand rule and aggressive East India Company trade policy. Ottoman rulers in turn had a very short–term policy unwilling to develop their territory as well as to invest in it and mercilessly exploiting land and peoples, they relied on continuous expansion for stability, and when the empire did not grow, it gradually collapsed (Hooker 1999). The Ottoman Empire was the long–lived one in comparison with the Mughals and the Safavid dynasty (a short–lived one). It reached its peak by 1600 under the reign of Suleyman the Magnificent and then has been gradually declined up to the end of the eighteenth century, but even survived through the First World War, and was disbanded in 1918. The Mughal Empire survived until 1857, it, as Phillip Myers affirmed, lasted upwards of 300 years, – until destroyed by the English in the present century, but in fact its rulers after 1803 were the pensioners of the East India Company (Myers 1902). As for the Safavids their demise after the reign of Abbas I was too prompt, and internal disorder plagued the empire which resulted in Afgans successful conquest of its capital Isfahan in 1722 (Hooker 1999). The Ottoman Turks†¦ were to falter, to turn inward, and to loose the chance of world domination†¦ To a certain extent it could be argued that this process was the natural consequence of earlier Turkish successes: the Ottoman army, however well administrated, might be able to maintain the lengthy frontiers, but could hardly expand farther without enormous cost in men and money (Kennedy 1989). The latter thought by Paul Kennedy could be referred not only to the Ottomans – it also determines one of the main economic reasons underlying the nature of Safavids and Mughals sunset. It is very expensive business to run an empire encompassing vast territory and one day such empire becomes too big to be successfully governed. The rapid expansion of the Muslim Empires spread their governments and military administrations too thin. The enormous expenses impoverished them and built up long–standing hostility among the people towards the lavish emperors. This subsequently led to the frequent rebellions and instability in the society in all three concerned empires (Hooker 1999). The lack of flexibility in attitude to the newer weaponry and resistance to any military technology that threatened the dominance of the Muslim Empires caused them to fall behind Western nations. Backwardness of Janissaries, their hereditary membership since 1637 resulted in transformation of Ottomans powerful army into a mob of cobblers and weavers. In case of the Mughals the most dramatic effect was taken by the recruitment of slave armies that finally became to dominate their hirers and govern independently. Similarly to them the Safavid Shan Tahmasp I begun introduction of converted slaves into military since the middle of the sixteenth century who later would acquire positions of influence under Shah Abbas I. But after conclusion of the treaty delimitating frontiers with the Ottomans in 1639 the army got peace and declined in size and quality (Kennedy 1989). During the seventeenth century all three empires showed the signs of weakening centralized political control. At the same time vast corruption among the bureaucracy and local aristocracy became evident. In the Safavid Empire which was a theocracy unlike the Ottoman and Mughal nations a new class of wealthy religious aristocrats owed everything to the state, but plundered it. Later sultans in the Ottoman Empire reduced to puppets dominated by Janissaries and viziers. Venality and corruption run through all level of bureaucracy. The last Mughal powerful emperor Aurangzeb decided to extend the territory under his control to the entire Indian subcontinent, and this campaign although being successful emptied his exchequer and increased his enemies. He faced rebellions in the north, and throughout the empire Islamic invaders, Hindu separatists and Sikh revolutionaries caused centralized political control to break down. Furthermore the rebellions in all three empires were excited over economic reasons: the heavy tax burden posed on peasants, alienation of the non–Muslim merchant classes in the Ottoman Empire; land seizures from Quizilbash landholders by the Safavid ruler Abbas I; a punitive tax on Hindu subjects re–imposed by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb (Hooker 1999). Religious diversity also contributed to the Great Muslims decay, although not so much as the above mentioned factors. Without religious tolerance the empires got a great many internal enemies disposed to the rebellions. The complexity of religion issue interrupted also the further development of the Muslim Empires. For example, Paul Kennedy stated with respect to the Mughals, that the system was weak at the core. The sheer rigidity of Hindu religious taboos militated against modernization (Kennedy 1989). The crisis in the Muslim Empires deepened also due to the external factors. They all were based on land routes, not sea travel, and this enabled the Europeans to dominate in trade by sea after discovering African water route to India by the Portuguese explorers. Muslim monopoly of trade with Asia ended then which unsettled the Ottoman economy and led to the inflation there. Although the English occasionally traded through Persia, the Safavids economy was weakened as well by the general loss of trade. Since the seventeenth century the trade routes in the world went through the oceans, which let the Europeans to have a great advantage controlling the trade by sea with India and the Far East. Having no seafaring skills, the Muslim Empires failed to resist to such domination, and they were to be reconciled with the presence of the Europeans in their cities (Wells 1933). In conclusion, the immense Muslim Empires were doomed to lose to the Europeans who advanced in science and technology, removed one of the sources of profit for the Muslim merchants having discovered new trade sea routes, and rose powerful nation–states able to gain territories not only due to gunpowder policy, but as the result of successful economic invasion. The Western Europeans, and particularly the Dutch, the Scandinavians, the Spanish, the Portuguese, the French and the British were extending the area of their struggles across the seas of all the world†¦ Great innovation, the ocean–going sailing ship, was inexorably extending the range of European experience to the further most limits of salt–water (Wells 1933). Bibliography Hooker, Richard. World Civilizations. Islam. Washington State University Web Site. 1999. http://www.wsu.edu:8080/~dee/MODULES.HTM Kennedy, Paul. The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers. London: Fontana Press. 1989. Pp. 10–16. Myers, Phillip V. N. A General History for Colleges and High Schools. Boston, U.S.A., and London: CINN Company Publishers. 1902. Pp. 460–464. Wells, Herbert G. A Short History of the World. London: Waterlow Sons Ltd. Printers. 1933. Pp. 168–235.

Impact of New Deal on Maerican Government and Society Essay Example for Free

Impact of New Deal on Maerican Government and Society Essay FDR’s New Deal changed the face of American government. Never before and no one since has implemented so many government programs and agencies. FDR’s New Deal helped the US get out of the Great Depression. The new deal expanded the federal government’s power like never before and was designed to help Americans who were suffering. FDRs new deal can be broken down into two categories: The first New Deal and the Second New Deal When FDR took office, he and his advisors did not have an exact plan or initial philosophy drawn up, but rather, they made it up as they went along. They were willing to do anything and everything to help bring the country out of the great depression, especially through the work of capitalism. To get his plan rolling, the first thing FDR needed to do was to restore confidence in the American people and get them on his side. He did so he went on the radio many times out of the year and told them what he was working on and what he had done that week which became known as â€Å"fireside chats. † The first thing FDR did in the first new deal was restore faith in financial institutions, and more so in capitalism. One thing FDR tries to do is have the public confident in banking system so that people would invest and could later have a healthy stock market. Immediately, he declared a bank holiday, and all banks had to close for a number of days. While the banks were closed, he sent in teams of financial investigators to determine which banks were viable and which were deemed unreliable. If deemed unviable, it could not reopen until it fixed its problems. Next, FDR created the SEC. The SEC was created to regulate the stock market, so the faulty trading that caused the crash could not occur again. The SEC also required companies who traded stock to make their financial books made public, and was ultimately designed to get people to invest in stock market again. Later, FDR created the FDIC. The FDIC was a government agency that was to ensure bank deposits as long as the bank met certain criteria. These 3 are careful steps of the gov’t working within the established system and basically put gov’t regulation in place to make sure the economy worked correctly. The second entity in the first new deal was an attempt to end the economic downturn. To do this, FDR needed to create jobs and help the economic markets. First, FDR created the NRA. The NRA set up a voluntary committee consisting of workers, business owners, and gov’t officials for every industry in the country. These committees would discuss production limits (which FDR believed overproduction was the cause of the GD), minimum prices, and wages. This did not work well because it was voluntary and businesses would usually break their part of the agreement. Next, FDR created AAA. This set up a government agency to pay farmers to produce less. FDR believed crop prices fell due to overproduction and that the AAA would solve this in two ways: 1, farmers would produce less therefore increasing crop prices and 2: by giving farmers much needed cash in return for not producing. Lastly, FDR created the TVA. This government agency created jobs by going into valleys to build hydroelectric dams that not only stop flooding, but create electricity. The AAA and TVA are considered very bold moves by the president because it allowed gov’t to interfere with private industry, and can even be argued as socialism. The last thing FDR wanted to do with the first new deal was provide direct relief to individuals. First, FDR gave states federal grants to buy food for those who needed it. Second, he created the CCC. This government agency gave men whose parents were unemployed jobs in the federal park/forest system. This program paid men around 30$ a month, of which 25$ would go to their parents, but it also clothed and fed them. This agency created jobs by having these men plant trees, build roads, trails, and bridges. Even though we did not need these things, the government was basically saying they would be the employer of last resort if the private sector was not supplying jobs. Third, FDR created FHA. This government agency was created to ensure home loans, so banks would again give out to potential home buyers. This was important because it put an influx of capital into the system. The characteristic of these three agencies was that the gov’t is beginning to say that everyone should have basic standards of living and that if they are ot there, the gov’t will be able to provide them, and even goes much further later on. After the first new deal, FDR received criticism from both from the left and the right political spectrums. Those on the right would say that the New Deal was â€Å"gov’t expansion gone crazy† and a radical departure from the past. They would also argue that it was dangerous gov’t intervention putting US on path of socialism. The Supreme Court, which was very conservative at the time, saw this as a dangerous expansion of federal government power and struck down the AAA and NRA as unconstitutional. FDR got most criticism from right from a popular radio speaker named Charles Coughlin who believed the GD/New deal was part of a Jewish conspiracy. On the left side of the spectrum, one would say that the New Deal did very little and not enough. FDR was criticized by the left primarily by Huey Long. He claimed wealthy Americans controlled all wealth and the only way to fix that was to give it back to common people. It was by far the most radical offer, and although Long was murdered, FDR believed left critique could still resonate and created the second new deal. Because of these criticisms, FDR unrolls the second new deal to answer those on the left. The second new deal had all the same goals as the first, but was much more radical. First, he created the REA. This government agency loaned to local communities that did not have electricity so that they could create their own power companies and run electricity to those who didn’t have it because private companies were only willing to supply to heavily populated areas. Here, the government is saying they will help provide a basis of living. Next, FDR created the WPA. This program was designed to put people to work since the private sector was not providing any jobs. It created construction jobs, employed painters to decorate buildings, hired actors and writers to put on play, etc. Third, FDR created the largest program of the new dealsocial security. It was divided into 3 categories: retirement (which took a portion of your paycheck and saved it), unemployment (which gave you a check for the first 6 months unemployed), and money for single mothers. The characteristic of SS was that it insured basic standards of living. Lastly, FDR created the NLRB, which forever changed the ov’ts relationship with unions. It made unions legal and made it illegal to fire someone for being in a union. The new deal was the largest expansion of government in history and had three basic characteristics: new role of organized labor, government ensuring basic standards, and government intervention in the economy. However, it did not end the Great depression. Despite this, it made the great depression tolerable, restored middle class belief in capitalism, put in place a â€Å"safety system† for capitalism that essentially made capitalism work better (sec, nrwb), and we continue to live with many of these programs today.

Comparing leadership styles and techniques

Comparing leadership styles and techniques This study will show and conclude whether or not this statement is indeed accurate or just another theoretical belief or ideology amongst between theorist. In this essay we will look at the meaning of both management and leadership, how they differ in concept and in style, and finally conclude whether or not this statement is indeed accurate. What is leadership? Moorhead and Griffin (1998) define leadership as both a process and property. They say, as a process leadership involves the use of non-coercive influence to direct and coordinates the activities of group members to meet a goal, and a property they describe leadership as a set of characteristics attributed to those who those who are perceived to use such influence successfully. According to Moorhead Griffin (1998), Management requires an understanding of human behavior, to help managers better comprehend those at different levels in the organization, those at the same level, those in other organization, and themselves. Management is the planning, organizing, leading and controlling of organizational resources both effectively and efficiently in order to ultimately achieve goals set out by an organization (Moorhead Griffin, 1998; Adair, 2003). Differences between leadership and management: Adair (2003) says, Leadership and management are not the same. In industry and commerce they should go together. In government we often think of political leadership and public service management, but the latter also requires high-quality leadership. Adair (2003) then continues to list the following; Leadership is about giving direction, building teams and inspiring others by example and word. You can be appointed a manager but you are not a leader until your personality and character, your knowledge and your skill in performing the functions of leadership are recognized and accepted by the others involved. This is a very fundamental difference. (Adair, 2003; Moorhead Griffin, 1998) Leadership and change go together. Managing in the form of running an organization is more appropriate where there is not much change going on. When change is endemic, as it often is nowadays, managers must learn how to lead it. Pg 71 Managing entails the proper and efficient use of resources- good administration. Good leaders care about administration, the less good ones dont. Management has the overtone of carrying out objectives laid down by someone else. Moreover, there is nothing in the concept of management which implies inspiration, creating teamwork when it isnt there, or setting an example. When it is the case that inspiration and teamwork exist, you may well have managers who are in effect leaders, especially if they are the source of the inspiration. But it is unfortunately more often the case that management does not ring bells when it comes to people. Other distinctive differences pointed out by (Adair, 2003) include Direction: A leader will find a ways forward. He or she will generate a sense of direction. That may involve identifying new objectives, new products or services and new markets Inspiration: Leadership is linked to inspiration. The words and example of a leader kindle motivation Building teams: A leader tends to think naturally in terms of team. Groups of individuals are transformed into teams. Equally, teams tend to look for leaders rather than bosses. Example: Leadership is example. A leader will have his or her own output or direct contribution to the common task, thereby leading from the front Acceptance: You can be appointed a manager, but you are not really a leader until your appointment is ratified in the hearts and minds of those who work with you. An article by Murray, C. (2010) states and lists the following, the managers job is to plan, organize and coordinate. The leaders job is to inspire and motivate. In his 1989 book On Becoming a Leader, Warren Bennis composed a list of the differences: The manager administers; the leader innovates. The manager is a copy; the leader is an original. The manager maintains; the leader develops. The manager focuses on systems and structure; the leader focuses on people. The manager relies on control; the leader inspires trust. The manager has a short-range view; the leader has a long-range perspective. The manager asks how and when; the leader asks what and why. The manager has his or her eye always on the bottom line; the leaders eye is on the horizon. The manager imitates; the leader originates. The manager accepts the status quo; the leader challenges it. The manager is the classic good soldier; the leader is his or her own person. The manager does things right; the leader does the right thing. Moorhead Griffin (1998) set out the following table to illustrate the distinction between management and leadership. Activity Management Leadership Creating an agenda Planning and Budgeting. Establishing details steps and timetables for achieving needed results; allocating the resources necessary to make those needed results happen Establishing direction. Developing a vision of the future, often the distant future, and strategies for producing the changes needed to achieve that vision Developing a human network for achieving the agenda Organizing and staffing. Establishing some structure for accomplishing plan requirements, staffing that structure with individuals, delegating responsibility and authority for carrying out the plan, providing policies and procedures to help guide people, and creating methods or systems to monitor implementation Aligning people. Communicating the direction by words and deeds to all those whose cooperation may be needed to influence the creation of teams and coalitions that understand the vision and strategies and accept their validity Executing plans Controlling and problem solving. Monitoring results vs. plan in some detail, identifying deviations, and then planning and organizing to solve these problem Motivating and inspiring. Energizing people to overcome major political, bureaucratic, and resource barriers to change by satisfying very basic, but often unfulfilled, human needs Outcomes Produces a degree of predictability and order and has the potential to consistently produce major results expected by various stakeholders (e.g. .for customers, always being on time; for stockholders, being on budget) Produces change, often to a dramatic degree, and has the potential to produce extremely useful change (e.g. , new products that customers want, new approaches to lobar relations that help make a firm more competitive) Another way of which leadership and management could be distinguished is through different styles, Management has three main categories of styles: autocratic, paternalistic and democratic. Autocratic (or authoritarian) managers like to make all the important decisions and closely supervise and control workers. Managers do not trust workers and simply give orders (one-way communication) that they expect to be obeyed. This approach derives from the views of Taylor as to how to motivate workers and relates to McGregors theory X view of workers. This approach has limitations (as highlighted by other motivational theorists such as Mayo and Herzberg) but it can be effective in certain situations. For example. When quick decisions are needed in a company (e.g. in a time of crises), when controlling large numbers of low skilled workers. Paternalistic managers give more attention to the social needs and views of their workers. Managers are interested in how happy workers feel and in many ways they act as a father figure (pater means father in Latin). They consult employees over issues and listen to their feedback or opinions. The manager will however make the actual decisions (in the best interests of the workers) as they believe the staffs still need direction and in this way it is still somewhat of an autocratic approach. The style is closely linked with Mayos Human Relation view of motivation and also the social needs of Maslow. Democratic style of management will put trust in employees and encourage them to make decisions. They will delegate to them the authority to do this (empowerment) and listen to their advice. This requires good two-way communication and often involves democratic discussion groups, which can offer useful suggestions and ideas. Managers must be willing to encourage leadership skills in subordinates. The ultimate democratic system occurs when decisions are made based on the majority view of all workers. However, this is not feasible for the majority of decisions taken by a business- indeed one of the criticisms of this style is that it can take longer to reach a decision. This style has close links with Herzbergs motivators and Maslows higher order skills and also applies to McGregors theory Y view of workers. Leadership styles include the following Transformational leadership Is the set of abilities that allow the leader to recognize the need for change, to create a vision to guide that change, and to execute that change effectively. (Moorhead Griffin, 1998) Charismatic leadership A charismatic leadership style is a type of influence based on the leaders personal charisma. (Moorhead Griffin, 1998) Conclusion: Despite all these differences one has to take note that in this new economy its nearly impossible to distinguish between the two as they both overlap one another and work hand in hand, in other words they complement each other, as Murray A, (2010) points out that there was a time when the calling of the manager and that of the leader could be separated. A foreman in an industrial-era factory probably didnt have to give much thought to what he was producing or to the people who were producing it. His or her job was to follow orders, organize the work, assign the right people to the necessary tasks, coordinate the results, and ensure the job got done as ordered. The focus was on efficiency. But in the new economy, where value comes increasingly from the knowledge of people, and where workers are no longer undifferentiated cogs in an industrial machine, management and leadership are not easily separated. People look to their managers, not just to assign them a task, but to define for th em a purpose. And managers must organize workers, not just to maximize efficiency, but to nurture skills, develop talent and inspire results. But if pressed for and answer one would have to agree with the statement as we are facing difficult times with the worldwide recession and collapse of economies (i.e. Greece, Iceland), and where there is great uncertainty amongst workers, you will find that people are looking out for leaders to navigate them through these troubled times, so there on would justifiably concur with the rationale. As (Adair, 2003) states, Although a natural leader instinctively tries to change and improve things, his or her efforts will, not bear much fruit unless external and internal change is effecting the organization- technological, social, economic, political and cultural change. Industry and commerce, and for that matter public services too, must now operate in a climate of almost constant change, stronger international competition and higher uncertainty. All that explains why the concept of leadership has once again come to the fore. Leaders like change; its in their chosen element. Managers, by contrast, have traditionally preferred to run organizations as machines. They are happiest in a stead state environment where nothing is rocking the boat.

Compare And Contrast Federalism Under Fdr Politics Essay

Compare And Contrast Federalism Under Fdr Politics Essay Federalism, a political system which is aimed on establishing a strong central government -which in return is constitutionally mandated to share equal powers with its local and state governments. It sounds straight and simple but some of American historys most enduring and complicated issues have resulted because of this political concept. Before the passage of the US constitution -there were people at one side of the political confederacy the pro-nationals, demanding a strong national government as the key answer for bringing America on its feet after its independence from the British while there were some, pro-states- who believed in investing all the powers in the states as the only solution. The American constitution -later adopted by the founders of the country is a blend of these both sides embedded with federalism. Even, after this historical political settlement -there have been US leaders previously and now- who tend to favor and accordingly set their governments policies e ither being a pro-national or pro-state. For the purpose of this essay, I will be comparing and contrasting federalism under the administration of specific US presidents -FDR, Nixon, Clinton and Bush. Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) came into power during the worst economic crisis-the great depression-in the American history. He expanded the governments power not just on central level but at municipal, state and local level as well -in order to better handle the loss caused by the great depression. His philosophy was no matter how big a government might get -it should have involvement and be responsible for its citizens .Its purpose should be to serve the common man on the street. His government was fundamentally dedicated on creating a political system which is largely focused on the welfare and care of its people; to help them out and pull the country out of this economic mess -where banks, stocks and all other major government financial institutions had collapsed. He formulated a program calling it the New Deal which involved on large scale federal-state cooperation in funding and power sharing. He initiated the welfare system, social insurance for the poor, elderly and the une mployed. According to FDR, the only way for the recovery would be if both the central and state governments worked together in joint effort-sharing equal powers. Through this transfer and shuffling of power, he established a system of dual federalism. He is the spearhead of many federal and state run programs that are running in the country today-directly affecting the lives of the millions living in here. I personally feel he was the first one to truly practice federalism in its essence- in his every day policy making and administration while being in power. When republican president Nixon took office, like many of his successors before and after him-had his own judgment about the division and assigning powers from the high level -national authority to the lower state or local agencies. He adopted a stricter managerial approach in the effort of making the overall governmental system more efficient and competent. He felt that the central government had been encumbered with unnecessary load of power and policy implementation which on the other hand could be carried out much more efficiently at the local government level. He based his administration on a pro-state approach-directing money and power from the central federal government and into the hands of smaller locally and state run agencies. He did this by mandating grants-in-aid into block grants -a devolution- by transferring power from the central side and giving much authority and money to the smaller state run governments. He believed that such a pro-state federalism will serve the community better as the state and local agencies have the easy access and better understanding to reach the areas in need. Bill Clinton like Nixon had main aim of making the federalist government more competent in nature but had a watchful approach towards granting more power to states. He was well aware of the importance of states having its self-sufficiency and powers but not at the cost of putting the central government at a vulnerable position. He viewed states as laboratories for implementing and experimenting policies passed by the national government. Although, throughout his reign, Clinton mandated strategies that gave more power to states- but ultimately favored devolution targeted towards making the national government stable and strong in nature. Unlike Nixon, Clinton was not in favor of smaller state run federalism. George Bush like Clinton shared a similar background before becoming the president. Both were governors but Bush era differed from Clintons in the way Bush adopted, shifted and granted powers to the states. Bush was an ardent advocate of small pro-state federalist government. Bush reversed Clintons proposed policies in regards to making states accountable and liable to the national government- in the matters such as setting national standards and rules for environmental guidelines. Bush made it harder for the central government to overrule and interfere in states decisions .He favored rule implementation by the states and less interference of the central government in the matters of the local government. The debate over federalism and the choice of being a pro-state or pro-national is an age old argument for our country. Our presidents- past and present may had differences in political opinion and formulated different policies geared towards handing more power to either states or national level but all shared the same admiration and regard for the government. They all agreed on the vitality and influence of government in a nation. American Federalism- the main idea seeded by the founders of this great nation -is yet to play many roles and touch our lives in many ways in the years to come.

Food Purchasing Cost Control

Food Purchasing Cost Control In the hospitality industry, purchasing may be defined as a function concerned with the search, selection, purchase, receipt, storage, and final use of a commodity in accordance with the catering policy of the establishment. (Davis and Kotas, 1986:47) Davis and Kotas (1986) suggest that purchasing is a fundamental function in the beverage control cycle. If this function is managed efficiently, then any hotel can attain quality beverage products at the minimum cost possible according to the companys financial objectives. The objective of beverage purchasing is to procure the best quality of items, at the lowest price for a specific purpose. It is a must to give considerable attention to the beverage cost control since beverages will normally throw in more profits than food. Fewer staff is required to process beverage into a finished item for consumption by the customers compares to food. (Davis et al, 2008) 3.2 The Purchasing Personnel Staff members that are responsible for the beverage purchases vary depending on the type and size of the establishment. (Davis and Kotas, 1986) The purchasing manager is responsible for the beverage purchasing function in Hotels One and Two. In Hotel-Three the purchasing manager and the food and beverage manager are responsible for the beverage purchasing function whereas in Hotel-Four the purchasing manager and the cost controller are accountable for this function. In Hotel-Two when there is a special theme night, the food and beverage manager will join the purchasing manager for such occasions. The purchasing function is centralised as hotel purchasing for Hotels One and Four. On the other hand the purchasing function is centralised as a group purchasing for Hotels Two and Three. It was agreed by all the interviewed personnel that the purchasing personnel have to be experienced and knowledgeable about the products that they have to order. In fact the purchasing manager in Hotel-Three has over thirty years of experience in this function. In the case of Hotel-Two it was mentioned that although experience and knowledge are vital for the purchasing function, most items in Malta are standard. Additionally it was also pointed out that the purchasing function depends on the demand of other departments. There have to be cross functional teams (that is team effort) and strong communication among all the hotel departments. Standards for beverage purchasing are developed for all the four hotels interviewed. Quality is given primary priority in all the hotels interviewed apart from for Hotel-Two where the first preference is on the price. In the case of Hotel-One, the products have to satisfy the bar manager and afterwards the purchasing personnel will deal for the best price for the pre-established quality. They will try to obtain the best price at the best quality. In Hotel-Three the purchasing personnel will try to attain a balance between price and quality however Quality is on top of the agenda. It is essential to consider the purchase of some of beverage items of each outlet separately. For example the wines offered at the pool bar will be at a lower quality and at a lower price when compared to the main bar. Each product can have a good quality, very good quality or best quality. The purchasing personnel have to choose the quality that is adequate for the specific outlet. In Hotel-Four both qualit y and price are given right of way however quality will always win. In Hotel-Two price is given precedence in the sense that, when choosing between two products with similar quality but different prices, the purchasing personnel will go for the cheaper product. The quantities of beverages to be ordered are determined by the storekeeper with the skilled assistance of the purchasing manager using a par stock level. When required in Hotel-One the cost controller will help out to determine the quantities to be ordered. In Hotel-Three the food and beverage manager will assist when needed to determine such quantities. 3.3 The Selection of Suppliers The suppliers selected can be either existing suppliers or potential suppliers. The advantage of the existing suppliers is that the quality of the goods received, the price and the service offered would all be already known. According to Dopsen, Hayes and Miller (2007) when dealing with new suppliers it is vital to exercise prudence and to get the subsequent information as a minimum: Full details of the firm and the range of items it is selling; Copies of recent price lists; Details of trading terms; Details of other customers they deal with; Samples of products. Ideally there should be a visit to any potential supplier to enhance knowledge about the size of the company; the range of the products; the size of processing and storage facilities and to meet members of the management team. All these factors facilitate a sustainable long-term business relationship. (Dopsen, Hayes and Miller, 2007) Suppliers can be chosen on the basis of their reputation in the market, upon an investigation of a supplier and on the basis of their performance. The best supplier is the one who provides the firm with the most efficient service with regard to quantity, quality, price and delivery performance. (Davis and Kotas, 1986:53) In all the hotels except for Hotel-Four there is a list of agreed suppliers from whom products are bought. Hotel-One has a list of preferred suppliers from whom the purchasing personnel will buy continually. It is a preferred suppliers list rather than an approved suppliers list. The advantage of having a preferred rather than an approved list is that if any particular supplier will give you a hard time (not reliable towards the hotel), then this supplier can be immediately replaced. Hotel-Two has an approved supplier when it comes to soft drinks and beers. When it comes to spirits, the suppliers are preferred rather than approved. Hotel-Three has contracts with the suppliers containing pre-agreed prices and pre-agreed quality of the listed products, however if something will not vary for example the quality will deteriorate, the purchasing personnel will alter the supplier if the problems will not be tackled. Although there is a contract, it is not a fixed contact that is the hotel personnel are not obliged to buy the beverage products from the specific supplier. Hotel-Four does not have any suppliers list. In this hotel the suppliers are chosen according to the quality of the products, the type of brands required and the services that the supplier will offer to the hotel. When selecting the suppliers, the criteria evaluated by Hotel-One are credit term, quality and prices. The credit term period is given top priority. According to Hotel-One it is useless to go for the best quality and the best price if the credit terms period is short. In Hotel-Two price is given top priority when selecting suppliers while quality and lead time are also analysed to make the right decision. In the other two hotels quality is the most influential factor used to determine the suppliers to be chosen for the beverage products. Dopsen, Hayes and Miller (2007) explained that the supplier performance can be evaluated using the rating system which usually includes: price, quality and delivery performance. Potential suppliers performance is only evaluated by Hotel-Three. Every now and then the purchasing manager will pick some items and verify if there is a better product in the market than the one that the hotel is currently using. The purchasing manager without involving employees in operation will pick up different products and will make a blind presentation and tasting of the product. The purchasing department will decant the product that will be identifiable (delete the tag and the supplier name) and the food and beverage manager will rate the product using a rating sheet including quality, yields among other factors. The person rating the product will not know who the supplier is. Although the decision taken will not be based on price, the food and beverage personnel will know the price to be able to match the product being tasted with its price accordingly. There have to be a balance between quality and price. It can be that the product quality is superior compared to the hotel standard thus the product will not be affordable. Then the rating sheet is filled out. Hotel-One pointed out that the suppliers evaluation and performance is not prepared because this does not add any value on the hotel sales. The cheapest item is not automatically the best to buy since low-cost products can lead to low quality. Normally the responsible persons go for the supplier on the basis of the quality required and then negotiate the best price for it. There is always a trade-off between quality and price. 3.4 The Purchasing Procedure According to Dopsen, Hayes and Miller (2007) the various steps in the purchasing procedure are: The initiation of a request to purchase beverages by an authorised employee such as the head of department or restaurant manager; The selection of the source of supply from which the goods are to be purchased, and the price to be paid; Entering into a contract with the supplier by telephone, electronically or in writing; Obtaining a satisfactory delivery performance from the supplier with regard to time, date and place of delivery; The acceptance of goods ordered and the transfer to the ordering department or to the stores. Purchasing is not a separate activity. What, how and when you buy must always reflect the overall goals of your establishment. Trends change so must you, the purchaser. (Brown, 2005:396) Dopsen, Hayes and Miller (2007) recommend that the procedure should reflect the type of the establishment and the market where it operates. Those responsible should consider: the location of the establishment in relation to its suppliers; the size of the storage facilities of the hotel; the shelf life of the beverage product; and the companys purchasing power. Whatever the establishment is, it is crucial to have a sound purchasing policy so that satisfactory standards will be achieved. 3.5 Purchasing Orders In every hotel it is vital to have purchasing policies and procedures which are planned to allow business transactions to take place smoothly between supplier and receiver. Documentary evidence should confirm that the procedures are actually being followed. In Hotel-One purchase orders are authorised by the purchasing officer and the financial controller while in Hotel-Two these are authorised by the group purchasing manager. In Hotel-Three the purchase orders are authorised by the cost controller or the general manager while in Hotel-Four these are authorised by the head of department and the latter will also communicate with the financial controller and the general manager, if deemed necessary. In all the hotels those authorising purchase orders are independent from those responsible for issuing requisitions. This prevents certain abuses that can be carried out when the same person will be responsible for both authorising purchase orders and for issuing requisitions. In Hotel-Two the persons issuing requisitions are the head of departments or the supervisors. Then the storekeeper will deliver the items that were previously ordered and the cost controller will verify that every order is in its perspective. In Hotel-Four the purchase orders are prepared by the head of departments while for the other three hotels, the purchase orders are prepared by the purchasing manager. Every hotel has a system of par stock level. In Hotel-One the cost controller will work to create a par stock level which will depend on the period of the year, the type of functions that the hotel has, and the type of clients that the hotel has. The aim of these par stock levels is to have some items of every stock with a limited quantity since excessive stock means cash put down the drain. Additionally useless stock will lead to negative cash flows. In Hotel-Two it was remarked that the par stock level used is an informal one that will be adapted according to the company needs. A point to note is that in Malta, hoteliers work a lot on a last minute purchases. This can be used since distances are short and so if there is a stock item missing, you can phone the supplier and the latter will bring the item in a few hours. In Hotel-Three the cost controller is responsible to ensure that stocks in the stores are kept lowest as possible as these will represent idle money. The information contained in the purchase orders of each hotel is nearly identical to each other. Hotels One and Three does not have the terms of payments listed in the purchase orders. The purchase order of Hotel-Three contained a disclaimer that declares that if the supplier (who will receive the purchase order) will not agree with the purchase order in terms of quantity or price or he does not have the pre-agreed brand, the supplier shall inform the purchasing manager before the delivery. In Hotel-Four the type of brand is not listed in the purchase orders. All the hotels have sequentially pre-numbered purchase orders. Normally a copy of the purchase order is being received by the supplier. The goods received clerk/storekeeper will also receive the purchase order and the same copy will go to the cost controller who will attach it with the invoice and passes it through his system and then the cost controller will give the purchase order to the accounts clerk who will pass it through the accounting system. On receipt of an authorised requisition form, it is vital to check the economic quantity to be purchased by checking the existing stocks and the sales volume forecast. After establishing the purchase requirements, a formal written purchase order is prepared. This serves as the basis for ordering. Written records lessen misunderstandings so it is better to maintain some written record of purchases, preferably on a purchase order, to verify the accuracy of deliveries received. (Dopsen, Hayes and Miller, 2007) 3.6 Concluding Remark Think of purchasing as a cycle, not a one-time activity. Purchasing is not just a matter of phoning or emailing another order. You dont want to run out, nor do you want to overstock. (Brown, 2005:395)