Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Types Of Major Depressive Disorder - 1614 Words

Major Depressive Disorder, to me, was a mental disease that meant you were sad. Before learning about it in class, I believed it meant crying, and staying in bed all day. I did not know why it happened, or think there was any connection with it and biology. I witnessed multiple people look down at the disorder as a sign of weakness. As I socialized with these individuals, I found myself connecting what they said to the disorder. I, personally, did not believe it to be a sign of weakness but because I knew others did, that’s what came to mind. Apparently, it was also a poor man’s disease. I had a friend who did not believe that privileged people were allowed to be depressed. I was exposed to a lot of the stigma that comes with mental illness. Unfortunately, that clouded my contact with the reality of the disorder. Through reading on the disorder, and the psychology classes I have taken, I was able to push past the stigma and what I was socialized to believe. I disregard the saying that it’s just a sign of weakness, and people just need to get over it. I learned that anyone can be affected by the disorder, even someone who is privileged, and lives a comfortable life. It is not always an environmental/sociocultural cause, but can be a more chemical/biological response. This definitely reinforced my disapproval of the stigma on major depressive disorder and encouraged me to fight against it. According to the DSM-5, a major depressive disorder is being in a depressed/sad mood forShow MoreRelatedMajor Types Of Major Depressive Disorder Essay2264 Words   |  10 Pages Major depressive disorder is a mental illness characterized by five or more of the following symptoms that have been present during the same 2 week period.29 These symptoms include; depressed mood, diminished interest or pleasure, fatigue, insomnia or hypersomnia, feelings of guilt or unworthiness, significant weight gain or weight loss change, and poor concentration.29 These symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. TheyRead MoreTypes Of Major Depressive Disorder1690 Words   |  7 PagesDepression in Inmates Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder that can be found among many Americans, reaching roughly three percent of adults and eleven percent of adolescents living in the United States. Other forms of less severe depression affect about ten percent of adult Americans. Women are more likely to be affected by this disorder than men, and women in their 30’s are also more likely to be affected than women of any other age group. In the criminal justice world, many adults who areRead MoreMajor Types Of Major Depressive Disorder ( Mdd ) Essay927 Words   |  4 PagesMajor Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a mental disorder characterized by behavioral, emotional, and cognitive symptoms that include but are not limited to the loss of pleasure or interest in activities (anhedonia), sleep disturbances, appetite changes, guilt or worthlessness, fatigue, lack of concentrating and/or indecisiveness including emotion dysregulation (mood swings) and views of the negative affect. People with MD D have five or more depressive symptoms, including sad mood or loss of pleasureRead MoreMajor Types Of Major Depressive Disorder1112 Words   |  5 Pages Major depressive disorder is a mental disorder characterized by a pervasive and persistent low mood that is accompanied by low self-esteem and by a loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities. The term depression is used in a number of different ways. It is often used to mean this syndrome but may refer to other mood disorders or simply to a low mood. Major depressive disorder is a disabling condition that adversely affects a person s family, work or school life, sleepingRead MoreMajor Types Of Major Depressive Disorder1551 Words   |  7 PagesMajor depressive disorder is one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States. In 2013 8.1% of females, and 5.1% of males in America reported having a major depressive episode in the previous year. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2013). According to Lorig and Powell (1988) women are more commonly diagnosed with depression and histrionic personality disorders, while men are more frequently diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders. This is consistent with the theory of shiftingRead MoreMajor Types Of Major Depressive Disorder1487 Words   |  6 PagesMajor Depressive Disorder Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder in which a person experiences low mood, loss of interest, and diminished self-esteem. Symptoms of depression take over every part of a person. It can hinder emotions, bodily utilities, behaviors, and thoughts. Depression is a common mood disorder and can affect any age group. Depression occurs when a person experiences a loss of self-esteem. Such as doing badly in a class, the loss of a loved one, or losing a career. Mild symptomsRead MoreTypes Of Major Depressive Disorder1500 Words   |  6 PagesMajor depressive disorder (MDD) is categorised by loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities and a depressed mood (Burton, Westen Kowalski, 2015). Symptoms include disturbances in sleep, appetite, concentration and energy. Sufferers often feel worthless, shoulder excessive guilt and, experience suicidal thoughts (Burton et al., 2015). Episodes often last 5 months (Spijker et al., 2002, as cited in Burton et al., 2015). One in se ven Australians will experience depression (AustralianRead MorePsychology : Human And Emotional Type Of Disorders1734 Words   |  7 Pagessense the overall topic of abnormal psychology. Abnormal psychology is and can be thought of as like any other psychology in a way but more specifically it is a psychology that deals with the understanding of mental and emotional type of disorders. As a psychology major you get to look at psychology through many forms, this is done with an objective which prepares you so to see which focus you find or can connect to most, most often for personal or logical base reasons. A subject or topic that caughtRead MoreDepression Is a Common but Serious Illness776 Words   |  4 Pagesactivities of an individual and the people that surround them. Depression can occur in many different ways. Major depressive episode, or major depression, is a period of intense depressed mood. This particular type of depression can occur at any age and have diverse characteristics depending on the circumstance. Individuals may experience a single episode or may have reoccurring episodes. Major depressive can affect a person’s sleep, school, work, and activities that once were enjoyable to them. The symptomsRead MoreBipolar Disorder : Symptoms And Symptoms943 Words   |  4 Pages Bipolar Disorder is a severe mental illness that causes shifts in mood swings by being overly excited or overly depressed, and can have suicidal thoughts. â€Å"All people with bipolar disorder have manic episodes- abnormally elevated or irritable moods that last a week and impair functioning.† (htpp://www.apa.org, 2015) Bipolar disorder is a long-term illness, can be controlled with prescription medication and psychotherapy sessions. Bipolar disorders are broken down into many parts

Monday, December 23, 2019

Islamic banking and Conventional bank Example

Essays on Islamic banking and Conventional bank Essay Difference between conventional banking and Islamic banking of Table of Contents Introduction 3 Aim of the study 3 Importance of the study 3 Difference between Islamic banks and Conventional banks 4 Difference between the two types of banks: practical approach 4 Difference between the two types of banks: theoretical approach 6 Conclusion 7 References 8 Introduction The global financial crisis of 2008 changed the banking system all over the world. At one hand, it highlighted and questioned the functioning of conventional banks while one the hand, it increased attention on functioning of Islamic banks. The law that rules conventional banks is rule of debit and credit while Islamic banking system is governed by Shariah laws. Academicians have observed that advantages of shariah-compliant financial services such as long term uncertain loans and mismatched short term deposits are mitigated with equity elements. Further, shariah compliant products are popular with those individuals who seek to avail those financial services that are consistent with Islamic religious views. Prior to the crisis, these banks were infamous and operative within their respective countries. However, crashing of major financial banks attracted attention of investors and financial intermediates towards these banks (Lewis Algaoud, 2001). The paper intends to discuss different Islamic banking services and products and distinguish them from conventional banking services. In addition, the paper will also explain elaborately different laws that govern Islamic banking sector and separate its operations from conventional banking. Aim of the study The paper aims at having a clear view and deep understanding of the elements of financial services that differentiate Islamic banks from conventional banks. Importance of the study During 2007-08, every conventional bank across the globe faced the heat of financial crisis. Many investment banks were bankrupt and debt ridden. However, during this period the Islamic banks existing in MENA (Middle East and North Africa) countries such as UAE, and Qatar performed unexpectedly well (Lewis Algaoud, 2001). It was observed that their bonds suffered a little but otherwise, they managed well. Furthermore, when the global banks were hesitant towards lending, these banks granted new loans during liquidity crisis. The comparative study will serve as an answer to various unasked questions regarding effectiveness of Islamic banks, which can be adopted by conventional banks to prevent future disasters. Difference between Islamic banks and Conventional banks Difference between the two types of banks: practical approach Islamic finance and banking facilities are a rising sector whose functions are based on Shariah (Islamic Law) principles. The main governing principles of Shariah are: Absence of interest-based transactions (Riba) Avoidance of speculation (Gharar) Avoidance of oppression (Zulm) Introduction of Islamic taxation (Zakat) Discouragement to activities that disagree with Islamic values (Haram) (Lewis Algaoud, 2001) A very distinctive aspect of Islamic finance is that it does not allow direct lending and borrowing in terms of money and other financial assets in order to create debt. In Shariah rule, the debt can only be created through lease based financial schemes or by selling or leasing real assets such as buildings, property and other physical infrastructure. Moreover, under this law, the debt of one person cannot be transferred or sold to someone. In other words, Islamic banking opposes the very reason of financial crisis, which was selling of subprime mortgages in the form of collateral bonds by investments banks to investors. The principle of Shariah insists on involvement of productive economic development in any kind of financial transaction. Scientifically, this factor eliminates the potential scope of excessive risk exposure related to leverage (IMF, 2014). In many countries such as Pakistan and Iran, Islamic banks are only source of mainstream financing while in countries such as Malaysia, United Kingdom, Indonesia and Bangladesh, Shariah compliant financing exists along with conventional banking. Unlike conventional banks, the essence of Islamic bank lies in risk and profit sharing so that profit is directly proportional to the risk. For instance, the risk associated with an investment activity is always integrated in respective financial transaction. Such a technique ensures stability and soundness in Islamic finance. Another important aspect of Islamic financing is that it prohibits trading of unregulated financial services such as derivatives and discounted debt sale whereas investors are allowed to invest in fixed return instruments (Ryu, Piao Nam, 2012). A survey by World Bank exhibited quantitative analysis of performance of Islamic banks and conventional banks all over the world. The data gathered through the survey was useful in preparing comparative study between both banks. The survey included 2956 banks across 141 countries and around 100 banks out of the same were Islamic banks. It was observed that between 1995 and 2007, an increasing number of Islamic banks have reported their financial information compared to conventional banks. It was further observed that Islamic banks enjoy higher share of fee income over conventional banks, by relying more on non-deposit funding. The loan-deposit ratio of conventional banks was comparatively high suggesting heavy dependence on interest-income generated through loans and deposits. Furthermore, asset quality of these banks was compared on the basis of loss reserves, loan loss provisions and non-performing assets. Even in this criterion, Islamic banks outperformed conventional banks by having significantly low loan loss reserve and non-performing assets. The last indicator that was employed was determination of bank stability based on solvency, profitability, leverage and volatility along with return on assets and capital asset ratio. It was observed that Islamic banks are better capitalized and more profitable compared to conventional banks. Alongside, Islamic banks were found to be less liquid than conventional banks (Beck, Demirgà ¼Ãƒ §-Kunt Merrouche, 2013). The following graph presents growth of assets in Islamic and conventional banks from 2006 to 2010- Figure 1 (Source: World Bank, 2014) Figure 2 (Source: IMF, 2014) Difference between the two types of banks: theoretical approach In modern Islamic banking services it is important to incorporate Zakat (Islamic tax) in all the activities while no such law is there in conventional banking. The conventional banks are formed for the purpose of earning profit through lending money and earning it back along with compounded interest. For these banks money is treated as a commodity and a source of motivation. On the other hand, Islamic banks believe in participative banking with know-your-customer orientation. Unlike conventional banks, Islamic banks do not follow principles of capitalism theory and profit maximization is subject to Shariah restrictions. In conventional banks earning profit is the main motive and risks can be transferred at a given cost. However, Shariah approved banks all financial transactions aim at greater good through economic development. These banks put great emphasis on the viability of the projects they approve. On the contrary, conventional banks ensure that the client is credit-worthy where credit is equivalent to ‘commodity pricing’. The Islamic bank plays a number of roles such as investor, partner, trader, seller and buyer with respect to relationship with clients, whereas that of conventional bank is to maintain creditor-debtor relationship (Lewis Algaoud, 2001). Conclusion The paper has emphasized on discussing the differences between conventional banks and Islamic banks. Comparison has been made between these two types of banks to understand the rationale behind success of Islamic banks during financial crisis of 2008. It was observed the Islamic finance and banking is an emerging sector yes it has greater extent of stability than conventional banks. The code of governance for Islamic banks is defined by Shariah (Islamic law) while conventional banks function on the basis of debit-credit rule. The paper has highlighted theoretical as well as practical approach to comparison and determination of differences. In theoretical approach it was found that Islamic banks not only provide fund to their client but they participate in their decision making as well. Whereas, the conventional banks are highly profit oriented. Statistics from World Bank supported the fact that Islamic banks are less risky and more profitable. As a result, it is expected that the conventional banking system will adopt the working structure of Islamic banks to prevent future financial disasters. References Beck, T., Demirgà ¼Ãƒ §-Kunt, A. Merrouche, O. (2013). Islamic vs. conventional banking: Business model, efficiency and stability. Retrieved from: http://elibrary.worldbank.org/doi/pdf/10.1596/1813-9450-5446. IMF. (2014). Islamic Banks: More Resilient to Crisis? Retrieved from: https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/survey/so/2010/RES100410A.htm. Lewis, M. Algaoud, L. M. (2001).  Islamic banking. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar. Ryu, K.P., Piao, S.Z. Nam, D. (2012). A Comparative Study between the Islamic and Conventional Banking Systems and Its Implications. Scholarly Journal of Business Administration, 2(5), 48-54. World Bank. (2014). Can Socially Responsible Investing bridge the Gap between Islamic and Conventional Financial Markets? Retrieved from: http://blogs.worldbank.org/psd/can-socially-responsible-investing-bridge-the-gap-between-islamic-and-conventional-financial-markets.

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Gramm Leach Bliley Modernization Act of 1999 Free Essays

Gramm Leach Bliley Modernization Act of 1999 History of the GLBA The Gramm Leach Bliley Modernization Act of 1999 is a regulation that Congress passed on November 12, 1999, which attempts to update and modernize the  financial industry. The main function of the Act was to repeal the Glass-Steagall Act that said banks and  other financial institutions were not allowed to offer financial services,  like  investments and insurance-related  services, as part of normal operations. The act is also known as the Financial Services  Modernization Act. We will write a custom essay sample on Gramm Leach Bliley Modernization Act of 1999 or any similar topic only for you Order Now The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), which is also known as the Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999, provides limited privacy protections against the sale of your private financial information. Additionally, the GLBA codifies protections against pretexting, the practice of obtaining personal information through false pretenses. (EPIC. org) Senator William Gramm Senator William Philip Gramm, also known as Phil, is a Representative and Senator from Texas. From 1978 to 1983, he served as a Democratic Congressman. Then from 1983 to 1985, Senator Gramm served as a Republican Congressman.Most recently, from 1985-2002, he served as a Republican Senator. After graduating from the University of Georgia in 1964, he continued at U of G to receive his doctorate in 1967. William Gramm was a professor of economics from 1967-1978. During this period, from 1971-1978, he also founded an economic consulting firm by the name of Gramm amp; Associates. In 1981, he co-sponsored the  Gramm-Latta Budget  which implemented  President  Ronald Reagan’s economic program, increased  military spending, cut other spending, and mandated the  Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981.Just days after being reelected in 1982, Gramm was thrown off the  House Budget Committee  for supporting Reagan’s tax cuts. In response, Gramm resigned his House seat on January 5, 1983. He then ran as a Republican for his own spot in a February 12, 1983 special election, and won. He became the first Republican to represent the district since its creation. Glass Steagall Act Due to the horrific losses incurred as a result of  1929’s Black Tuesday and Thursday,  the Glass-Steagall act was  created originally during the 1930s in order to prevent bank depositors  from  additional exposure to  risk associated with  stock market issues.As a result, for many years, banks were not legally allowed to  act as  brokers. Since many regulations  have been  instituted  since the 1930s to protect bank depositors,  GLBA was created to  allow the financial industry to offer more services. Current Events related to GLBA Due to the recent financial crisis and with concerns about the country’s economic status on the rise, GLBA has attracted its share of criticism. In an earlier statement, President Obama was quoted in the Wall Street Journal as saying that the GLBA helped create the 2007 subprime crisis. Nobel prize recipients Joseph Stiglitz and Paul Krugman have also criticized the Act.In fact, Paul Krugman referred to the co-author, former Senator Phil Gramm, as the â€Å"Father of the Financial Crisis. † Although GLBA is receiving the bulk of the outrage, the true â€Å"monsters† in this financial crisis have come from the unregulated brokerage industry and investment banks. Recent Proposals Although it seems to have fallen from new legislation, The Volcker Rule   is a pr oposal   to restrict banks from making certain kinds of speculative investments if they are not strictly on behalf of their customers. Volcker has argued that such speculative activity played a key role in the  current financial crisis.The Volcker Rule was first publicly endorsed by President Obama on January 21, 2010. The proposal specifically prohibits a bank or institution that owns a bank from engaging in  proprietary trading that isn’t strictly on behalf of its clients, and from owning or investing in a hedge fund or private equity fund, as well as limiting the liabilities that the largest banks could hold. As of February 23, 2010, Congress began to consider a different bill allowing federal regulators to restrict proprietary trading and hedge fund ownership by banks, but not prohibiting these activities altogether. Paul Volcker was earlier appointed as the chair of President  Obama’s  Economic Recovery Advisory Board, which was created on February 6, 2009.Works Cited†Biographical Directory of the United States Congress†. June 30, 2010 http://bioguide. congress. gov/scripts/bio display. pl? index=g000365.†Information Regarding the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999†³. U. S. Senate Commitee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. June 30, 2010 http://banking. senate. gov/conf/.†The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act†. Electronic Privacy Information Center. June 30, 2010 ;lt;http://epic. org/privacy/glba/;gt;. How to cite Gramm Leach Bliley Modernization Act of 1999, Papers

Friday, December 6, 2019

Concepts In Innovation Output Measurement - Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Discuss about the Concepts In Innovation Output Measurement. Answer: Customer segmentation of Spalk The target market of Spalk can be divided in different segments such as demographics, psychographics and behavioral characteristics. Thus, the customer segmentation of them will be discussed in these three parameters. Demographic customer segments The target customers of Spalk in terms of the age group are vast ranging from 16 years to 65 years. This is due to the reason that, Spalk is catering in the sports market and sports are having different types with different target age groups. Moreover, Spalk is having their commentary services for different sports around the world, which further enhancing their target age groups. However, it is also to be noted that the younger and teenage groups are more to be targeted due to the reason that the sports market is having the highest penetration among the younger age groups. Figure: 1 Sports market segmentation in Australia Source: (Roy Morgan, 2018) According to the above figure, it is seen that the market penetration among the younger groups of population is more and thus, the target market of Spalk in terms of age groups is more concentrated towards younger age compared to the older age. Moreover, in terms of gender, the target market of Spalk is equally segregated due to the reason that in the current time, women viewership in the sports is at par with the male counterparts. The above figure also shows that there is very less differences between the market penetration among male and female viewers. Psychographic customer segments Psychographic customer segment of Spalk can be divided in different aspects. One is interest. Customers with having interest in different types of sports or particularly in one sports and with having the interest in commentary in different languages are the target customers of Spalk. In terms of the lifestyle, customers with having time for sports but they are not having much time to attend in physical are the target customers for Spalk. They will be able to hear the commentary of their favorite sport in their preferred language at any point of time. Figure: 2 Percentage of online viewership Source: (Crane, 2018) The above data shows that, the rate of market penetration of online streaming is more with the younger age groups. Thus, the target market for the Spalk will be younger generation due to the fact they are only catering to the online market of sports. Behavioral customer segments In terms of the buying patterns, the target customers of Spalk are the customers who are more interested in the online services. These customers will be more interested in viewing the sports in more in online medium. The key benefit that they mainly sought from the service is the convenience. This is due to the reason that, these customers are having less time to attend the sports events and they do not have the convenience to watch the events live on the television. In addition, another benefit sought by the customers is the variety in the language of commentary. In the case of the television, this cannot be fulfilled; however, customers opting for Spalk are in the need of commentary in their preferred language. Stakeholder analysis Prior to the commencement of the stakeholder analysis, it is important to first identify the key internal and external stakeholders of Spalk. Internal stakeholders of them include freelancing commentators, management team and other employees of the organization, while the external stakeholders are the channel partners and the customers. Hence, in order to identify the impact and intensity of these stakeholders in the operation of the organization, stakeholder analysis will be incorporated. Figure: 3 Stakeholder analysis matrix The first element of the stakeholder analysis is the high power and low interest. In the case of the Spalk, these stakeholders are the channel partners. The second element is the stakeholders with having high power and high interest. This element will include the management team of Spalk. They are having majority of the interest in the business operation of the organization and they are having the power in the decision making process. The next element in the matrix is the stakeholders with having low power and low interest. In the present time, Spalk is not having any such stakeholders in place. The last element is the stakeholders are the ones who are having low power and high interest. In the case of the Spalk, these stakeholders are the customers, employees and the freelancing commentators. Needs of the stakeholders Needs of the stakeholders refer to the requirement of the stakeholders in enhancing their performance in the organization. In the case of Spalk, the need of the employees is the proper and effective working environment in the organization with having proper infrastructure and facilities in order to maintain their job effectiveness and performance. The need of the management team is to have skilled and right employees in right place with having the ability to deal with different organizational challenges. Moreover, their need also includes having diverse and varied number of commentators to offer commentary service in different languages to the audience. The need of the customers of Spalk is to have reliable and quality online service, which will work seamlessly in every location and at any point of time. Moreover, the customers are also in the need of having the options of hearing commentary in their chosen language. From their point of view, they are in the need of having the required infrastructure in order to avail the services of Spalk. Need of the freelancing commentators includes proper pay scale for their services and effective communication process with the management team. Moreover, they are also in the need of a laptop and internet connection in order to do the job with Spalk. The channel partners of Spalk are in the need of reliable partners who will be able to stream their content properly in the online medium and who will be able to reach the content to the maximum number of the target customers. Interests of the stakeholders Interests of the stakeholders refer to the impact of the business operations on them. The intensity to which the business operation of the organization is having positive or negative impact on the stakeholders is the interest of them. In the case of the Spalk, employees are having high level of interest due to the reason that, profit or loss in the business operation of the organization will have financial impact on the employees. Moreover, their salary and job security are also depending on the business operation of Spalk. On the other hand, customers are having moderate interest in Spalk. This is due to the reason that, ineffective customer service and service offerings will affect the user experience of them. Interest of the management team is also high due to the fact that, their financial benefits are also depending on the business operation of the organization. Channel partners are having less interest in the organization due to the reason they are having number of options and substitute services available in the market, which can be switched over at point of time. Moreover, the effectiveness of the channel partners is also not depending on the business performance of Spalk. Freelancing commentators are also having higher interest in the organization due to the reason that, their income and earnings are depended on the business performance of the organization. Power of the stakeholders Power of the stakeholders refers to the level of influence that the particular stakeholder is having with him in the daily business operation of the organization. In the case of Spalk, employees are having less power in the organization due to the reason that, they are not much having any opinion on the decision making process in the organization. On the other hand, upper level management is having higher degree of power in the organization. This is due to the reason that upper level management is having the major power in the decision making process. Customers and commentators are also not having any power in the organization. Competitive analysis Currently, Spalk is having number of competitors in the global market. Some of their direct competitors are Pundit sports, iHaertmedia and Argus media. These competitors are posing one of the key challenges for Spalk in the global market. Apart from these direct competitors, there are various other mediums already present in the market, which are not directly competing with them but posing challenges in the global market. These mediums are the live television streaming and attending the events in physical. The more people will get attracted towards these mediums, the less will be the customer traffic for Spalk. Market positioning Spalk can be considered as market leader in its segment. This is due to the reason that, they are one of the early entrants in the market and rapidly increasing their market presence in different regions around the world. According to the recent reports, in the recent time, Spalk is eying to tap the growing market in the United States (MCNICOL, 2018). In the market of the United States, Spalk will be late mover due to the presence of other competitors already in the market. Marketing strategies Spalk is having mass market marketing strategies rather than having niche marketing strategies. In accordance to that, they are having their presence in more markets around the world compared to their competitors. On the other hand, they involve online marketing extensively due to the reason that they are catering to the online customers only. Traditional marketing strategies include advertising the brand in the sports events, which helps the customers to relate the brand with the sports related content effectively. They in order to enhance their presence in maximum markets and to have maximum market reach are also initiating market development strategies. Resources of Spalk VRIO framework Valuable Human resources Financial resources Brand value Rarity Skill and attributes Organizational culture Imitation cost Assets Brand value and trademark Skills and attributes Organizational capability Organizational culture Human resources Financial resources Environmental analysis Strengths The availability of huge variety of language in commentary is one of the key strengths of Spalk. This is due to the reason that, offering services in different languages is helping them to cater to larger society and to different cultural groups around the world. Other strength of them is their distribution channel. Spalk is having their entire distribution channel online. Thus, the cost is relatively lower compared to traditional distribution channel and reaches effectively to the target customers Weaknesses Spalk is currently not having huge and extensive brand value in the global market. This is due to the reason that, they are actually startup and founded just a few years ago. Thus, they are not having to the access to the latest technologies and organizational processes. Moreover, the facility of online streaming is limited to the metro cities only. Thus, the market opportunity is also limited. Opportunities Rapid advancement in the technology will help Spalk to increase their market opportunity. Moreover, in the recent time, major population is having less time for live television streaming. Thus, they will more prefer online streaming of sports commentary. Threats Entry of new competitors in the market will reduce the profitability. In addition, rapidly developing the technology will further change the preference pattern of the customers, which will reduce the potentiality of Spalk. Evaluation of Innovation with VRIO and Timmons Model With the analysis of the different marketing strategies and SWOT analysis, it can be seen that innovation is required to be done in the respective company. The respective company can adopt disruptive or radical innovation technology, as this will create significant kind of impact on the economic and market activities. Furthermore, it has been seen that Spalk is a new start up business wherein proper analysis has been done with the SWOT analysis that helped them in understanding weaknesses, strengths, opportunities and threats. In order to gain the competitive advantage, they need to analyze their strengths in such a manner that this will help in reducing the cost of the different products as this will help them in cater to larger societies. The distribution channel has to be created in such a manner that will help them in targeting different kind of customers in the marketplace. The company needs to differentiate the different products and services in an effective manner wherein this will help them to spread their presence in the global market(Hodson, 2016). The opportunities of the company have to be analyzed effectively as this will help the company in gaining competitive advantage in the market. The VRIO analysis can be done, as this will help in evaluating the resources of the company, as this will help them in gaining competitive advantage in the entire competitive market. The VRIO stands for Value, Rareness, Imitability and Organization(Merig et al., 2016). With the help of VRIO analysis, the internal analysis is helpful to be conducted wherein this will help in assessing the growth of the firm in an effective manner. Figure 4: Timmons Model (Source: Bain Kleinknecht, 2016) From the Timmons Model, it can be analyzed that the opportunity factor needs to adopted in an effective manner as this will help in identification of different opportunities in an effective manner. With the help of Timmons Model, the VRIO analysis needs to use the resources of the company in a sustainable manner as this will help the company in gaining competitive advantage and parity. Furthermore, Spalk is a new organization wherein the resources are valuable and uncertainty has to be reduced in an effective manner to generate creativity in the market. The requirement of the rare resources has to be analyzed as this will help in creating effective team. In the VRIO analysis, it has been seen that there are gaps in the supply chain management and financial resources wherein the imitability is low and there are differences that has to be improved. Particulars Valuable Rare Imitable Organization Implications Financial Resources Yes Yes No Yes Realized sustainable competitive advantage Production and SCM Yes Yes Yes No Easy to gain sustainable competitive advantage Marketing and Innovation Yes Yes No Yes Moderate in nature to gain sustainable advantage The proper analysis of the customers and competitors is required to be done by the Spalk Company, as this will help them in gaining competitive advantage in the market. The VRIO analysis is required to be done by the company in such a manner that will help in analyzing and implementing the strengths to secure their position in the entire competitive market (Min et al., 2016). The financial resources of Spalk have to be based on financial health of the company. Furthermore, it can be seen that Spalk is a new company, the growth is no stable in nature and there are few issues relating to the access to the new technologies in the market (Sarin, Haon Belkhouja, 2018). The rapid development is required to be made by Spalk, as this will help them in using different technologies for online streaming of different programs related to advertisement of foods and services in an effective manner. However, there are different threats as there are different competitors in the market that can reduce their profitability in the market. The respective company needs to understand the need of the shareholders in an effective manner wherein the company needs to create mass strategies of marketing that will help them in spreading their presence in the entire world (Bain Kleinknecht, 2016). Finally, the positioning of the market has to be done in such a manner that will help in rapidly increasing their presence in the market and this will help them in becoming one of the growing markets in the entire world. There are large number of competitors in the market wherein the interest and needs of the stakeholders is required to be analyzed, as this will help in becoming popular with the help of the SWOT and VRIO analysis (West Bogers, 2014). The company needs to spread their presence in an effective manner throughout the competitive market. Business Proposal Key Partners Providers of materials and manufacturers of contracts Tournaments and leagues Providers of payments Sport celebrities Distributional network Key Activities Marketing Quality control Selling and marketing of sportswear and athletic footwear Equipment Design and development Production and sponsoring Value Proposition In order to bring innovation and inspiration to each and every athlete Concept of unique personalization To create different experiences and products for the athletes of today and they solve problems for the next generation Customer Relationships Customization is required to be done as this will help the respective company in attracting lucrative young shoppers Sustainable kind of innovation Online and offline experience and channels Loyalty programs Fashion and celebrities Customer Segments Sport fans Young generation Massive market Key Resources Designers for designing the different sportswear apparels Excellence of the supply chain 3D printing kind of technology Technology of Knitting Channels Spalk.com Internet Events Independent distributors Media Cost Structure Taxes Staffs Distribution Marketing and IT infrastructure Taxes Sponsorships Revenue Streams Sale of different products From the above business canvas model, it can be analyzed that proper cost structure and the revenue streams is required to be analyzed as this will help them in selling different products in an effective manner. The different process of the channels and the key activities and resources has to be analyzed effectively as this will help the company in gaining competitive advantage and compete with the other competitors in the market in an effective manner. The company Spalk needs to analyze the key activities as to generate huge productivity in the end. Reference Bain, D., Kleinknecht, A. (Eds.). (2016).New concepts in innovation output measurement. Springer. Crane, V. (2018).TV Battle Royale.Talking Trending Tech. Retrieved 9 March 2018, from https://talkingtrendingtech.com/2017/12/07/tv-battle-royale/ Hodson, R. (2016). Open innovation.Nature,533(7602), S53. MCNICOL, H. (2018).Spalk eyes US market for 'unique' sports commentary technology.Stuff. Retrieved 9 March 2018, from https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/94745640/spalk-eyes-us-market-for-unique-sports-commentary-technology Merig, J. M., Cancino, C. A., Coronado, F., Urbano, D. (2016). Academic research in innovation: a country analysis.Scientometrics,108(2), 559-593. Min, B. S., Min, J. H., Jang, W., Han, S. H., Kang, S. Y. (2016). VRIO Model Based Enterprise Capability Assessment Framework for Plant Project. Korean Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 17(3), 61-70. Roy Morgan. (2018).Roy Morgan. Retrieved 9 March 2018, from https://www.roymorgan.com/findings/7182-decline-in-competitive-sports-participation-australia-december-2016-201703200905 Sarin, S., Haon, C., Belkhouja, M. (2018). A Bibliometric Analysis of the Knowledge Exchange Patterns Between Major Technology and Innovation Management Journals (19992013).Journal of Product Innovation Management,35(1), 2-8. West, J., Bogers, M. (2014). Leveraging external sources of innovation: a review of research on open innovation.Journal of Product Innovation Management,31(4), 814-831.

Friday, November 29, 2019

Artificial Knowledge in the Truman Show Essay Essays

Artificial Knowledge in the Truman Show Essay Essays Artificial Knowledge in the Truman Show Essay Essay Artificial Knowledge in the Truman Show Essay Essay In the film â€Å"The Truman Show. † one epistemic job that is being tackled is the job of how adult male is able to go cognizant of things that he one time had no thought approximately. Do we acquire to cognize things or do we get cognition because of our mere experiences of things or does it affect something more than that? In order to hold a better appreciation of the inquiry at manus. John Locke’s intervention of human cognition and experience can supply us with a model to get down with. John Locke’s construct of thetabula rasaTells us that in the beginning we do non basically have any thoughts and cognition. It is through experience that we are able to get thoughts and. hence. cognition of the universe we live in. As Locke will state us. the head is ab initio presumed to be like that of a white paper. nothingness of all features and without any thoughts. Possibly one manner to construe Locke’s premise is that it is through our interaction with the universe and with others that we begin to derive cognition piece by piece from the clip that we gain consciousness from childhood. The film â€Å"The Truman Show† is one which portrays the life of a adult male who appears to hold been populating in an unreal universe all along- a telecasting show. That is. everything around him is set-up. which includes the decease of his male parent up to the clip when he becomes an grownup. All of his day-to-day experience has been predetermined and that every other person in that unreal society knows that Truman Burbank. the chief character in the film. is populating in an unreal universe. Throughout the class of his life. Truman acquires knowledge through his day-to-day interactions with those around him. Apparently. these many things which surround him are basically imitations or shut to being an exact transcript of the things in the existent universe. Since Truman’s universe is a universe of artificiality. one may reason that the cognition that he is able to get is cognition which is unreal or an imitation of the existent cognition in the existent universe. In general. it can be pointed out that the cognition of Truman is unreal and. hence. non existent exactly because the universe where he lives and the universe which he acquires his cognition from is non the existent universe but one which has been specifically constructed for the intent of a telecasting show. With respect to the instance of Truman. Locke will most probably state us that even though Truman’s universe is unnaturally constructed. Truman is however able to get cognition which he makes usage in his day-to-day covering with other people around him. But more to being able to get cognition. it can be said that the cognition that Truman is able to get is unreal. Populating in an unreal universe set-up for the primary intent of making a telecasting show which is supposed to run throughout one’s life-time. it is inevitable that what one knows are things which are entirely based on what one has experienced in that unreal universe. Indeed. it will be unlogical to state that Truman’s cognition is that of the existent universe merely because Truman hasn’t had any contact with the existent universe outside of his unreal society which might hold given him existent and true cognition. As Truman becomes more and more acquainted with the unreal universe he lives in. it is most likely the instance that his consciousness will reflect what he has been able to see in his universe. Furthermore. Locke’s presupposition of the head as ab initio devoid of any substance or of any thoughts and that our heads would finally hold to get thoughts through experience and interaction with the universe explains the instance of Truman turning up in an unreal universe. Since Truman was born and grew up in the conjectural universe of Seahaven. Locke would presuppose that the cognition of Truman as he grows would be purely confined or limited to the cognition that is available in that universe. Hence. it would instead be rather impossible for Truman to get at any other cognition other than the unreal 1s in his unreal universe. The ‘blank’ head of Truman from his birth has been seemingly filled and etched with unreal cognition along his life-time in that conjectural kingdom. One interesting point. nevertheless. is the thought that even though for the people outside Seahaven. they may handle Truman’s cognition as unreal piece. on the other manus. the Truman may handle his cognition as existent cognition because he is incognizant of the external universe that watches his every move. The footing for stating that Truman’s cognition is unreal or is non existent is that there is an external universe which knows for a fact that Truman is populating in an unreal society filled with people holding unreal societal connexions and relationships. For the portion of Truman. he may really good hold no such thought and that all he may be cognizant of is that the manner in which he understands his environing environment is every bit existent as it can be. John Locke may really good reason that. so. the lone manner for Truman to get cognition. whether unreal or existent. is through his experiences. If Truman gets to see unreal things around him. so it must be the instance that he gets to hold unreal cognition utilizing the external universe as the footing for the world of cognition. Locke’s thought that the head is able to get thoughts through experience has with it a certain signifier of disadvantage. That is. if one is acute to sing unreal things in an unreal universe. the greatest danger is that one will be holding unreal cognition. Therefore. to populate in an unreal universe and to see the things in it is to obtain unreal cognition. In the existent universe. the same besides holds true and that experience is important to the formation of human cognition. Mention Schwoerer. L. G. ( 1990 ) . Locke. Lockean Ideas. and the Glorious Revolution.Journal of the History of Ideas. 51( 4 ) . 531-548.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Poems Copmarison

Poems Copmarison Analysis of Do not go gentle into that good night The main theme in the poem Do not go gentle into that good night by Dylan Thomas, is an argument to fight against the encroaching arms of death. While the word fight is never actually utilized despite its similarity to the meter of the poem, words such as rage, burn and rave are all utilized in such a way that it portrays a fight against death itself.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Poems Copmarison specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In order to better understanding the overall context of the poem, it is important to examine the last stanza which states and you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray, Do not go gentle into that good night (Thomas, 1). From this, the entire context of the poem becomes clear wherein it appears that the author wrote the poem as an appeal to his father who is near the death in that he wanted h is father to continue to live and to fight. The author phrases his arguments to fight by mentioning various types of praiseworthy behavior by wise mean, good men, grave men and wild men (Thomas, 1). This is one of the symbolisms of the poem wherein the author attempts to parallel the traits of such individuals and attributes them to his father in order to convince him to live on. This is seen in the use of the phrase Do not go gentle into that good night and Rage, rage against the dying of the light after each description of each type of man as if to imply that men of such character and distinction would not allow themselves to die so easily (Thomas, 1). This is a particularly interesting motif that the author is using since it shows that he is not ready to let his father go just yet. This may be due to unresolved issues, the love of a son for his father or an assortment of other factors that are not evident within the poem itself. Other interesting symbols utilized throughout the p oem are references to day and night as well as lightning and meteors. This is particularly interesting to take a note of since such methods of symbolism imply that the author acknowledges that all life must end yet before it does it must do so in a spectacular fashion. For example, a day does not transit into night without a bright sunset; lightning is a brief yet brilliant flash of light while a meteor is a blazing trail of fire that lights of the night sky. This seems to imply that the author wants to have one last talk with this father, that he wants him to go out blazing like the sun, like a meteor or like lightning.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The poem seemingly emphasizes that his father should go down blazing and fighting and not apparently bed stricken as derived from the phrase there on the sad height which seemingly implies being placed on a hospita l bed (Thomas, 1). Overall, the poem is an excellent piece of literature that portrays a sons love for this father and how he wanted to have more time with him. Analysis of Let Evening Come When reading the poem Let Evening Come by Jane Kenyon, at first glance, it seems to be a poem emphasizing her desire for night to come however after several readings it becomes apparent that the term evening is symbolic of the coming of death. This interpretation becomes apparent after examining the line let the cricket take up chafing as a woman takes up her needles and her yarn due to the fact that a woman taking up yarn is symbolic of a person entering old age and taking up knitting as a hobby (Kenyon, 1). Not only that, the term â€Å"crickets take up chafing† can also be interpreted as the time in which crickets stop making noises with their legs which either happens at night or when they are dead (Kenyon, 1). Throughout the poem, it becomes apparent that the author is not afraid of d eath and the reason for this is based on the last stanza which states God does not leave us comfortless (Kenyon, 1). When taking this particular phrase and combining it with references to a bottle in a ditch, a scoop of oats or air in the lung, these seemingly inconsequential aspects can actually be combined and interpreted as being symbolic of Gods all encompassing love (Kenyon, 1). In that, there is no person that God does not love and as such even if death should come we should not be afraid for God is with us. This I believe is the main theme of the poem and the message that the author is trying to impart to readers. It must also be noted that unlike other poems which speak of the coming of death this poem does not have the same haunting feel of regret or dismay rather when reading it what becomes apparent is a feeling of acceptance of the coming of death that the author imparts in each stanza and phrase and as such shows how her belief in the love of God keeps the fear of death away. Analysis of the Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock When examining this particular work by T.S. Elliot, one cannot help but think that the author wrote it while he was drunk or not in his right state of mind. It is riddled with random musings, thoughts and ideas that apparently turn and tumble upon each other until they seemingly coalesce into a stanza that barely makes logical sense. It is hard to determine whether the author is being literal in some aspects or symbolic in others with thoughts and ideas seemingly implying one thing in one interpretation yet meaning another in yet another interpretation. What is evident though is that the voice of the poem, J. Alfred Prufrock, is apparently trying to tell a woman that he has a distinct romantic interest in her yet it is hard to determine whether he is talking to her already or to himself and reveling in his own imaginary world.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Poems Copmarison specifically for you for o nly $16.05 $11/page Learn More One line in the poem the taking of toast and tea and the stanza it is in seemingly implies that the character of Prufrock is on his way to tea and is going to talk to the woman so to speak informing her of his interest (Eliot, 1). Taking this particular method of interpretation into consideration, it can be assumed that the jumbled and at times chaotic method of writing throughout the poem may in fact be the authors way of imitating the jumble of thoughts and words that goes through a mans head as he is about to tell the woman he likes that he likes her. If this is so, then the author has fully captured the chaos that would normally be in a mans mind and as such the lucidity and sheer randomness of the way in which ideas are formed and stated starts to make sense. In fact, it might just be that the inspiration for this particular poem is derived from the authors own experiences in telling the woman he loves that he likes her. Analysis o f Disillusionment of Ten O’clock The poem Disillusionment of Ten O’clock by Wallace Stevens is actually full of various metaphors and symbolic interpretations that speak volumes more than what is apparent in the poem. The main message that the author is trying to convey in the poem is that many people live hollowed out lives that lack color and make them seem like the walking dead. For example, the phrase the houses are haunted by white night-gowns, none are green, or purple with green rings, or green with yellow rings, or yellow with blue rings is meant to symbolize the fact that the people who live within the house are like the walking dead cold, lifeless and utter devoid of life (Stevens, 1). This comparison is further emphasized by the statement that says that the white night gowns are totally devoid of color. In this case, the color white symbolizes the bleak empty existences that such people live while the colors (green, blue, or purple) represent what is missing in their life such as joy, happiness and adventure. The author does end on a hopeful note in the end though when he mentions the sailor who dreams of baboons, periwinkles and catching tigers in red weather (Stevens, 1). This is emphasize that not all individuals in world today are bleak, empty and devoid of imagination but rather there still exists hope for those with imagination and a sense of adventure.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Analysis of Design In the poem Design by Robert Frost, readers are treated to the musings of the author regarding the grand design of all things and an implied question as to whether or not a grand entity shapes our destiny or if we ourselves shape our future. This evident by the first lines of the poem found a dimpled spider, fat and white, on a white heal-all, holding up a moth, like a white piece of rigid satin cloth (Frost, 1). From this, it can be seen that the author has created a scene where there is a white spider, on a white flower holding a white moth and spends the rest of the poem inquiring whether even in something so small there is a grand design that placed the spider in the right position to catch the right kind of prey. From this, Frost implies that all of us may be part of some greater design with coincidences appearing that may not be coincidences at all but rather are part of a plan for our lives. In this, Frost questions whether we have any free will at all and in fact are nothing more than moving parts in some great machine, being moved at the whim of some all powerful entity. Eliot, Thomas. The Love song of J. Alfred Prufrock. Bartleby. N.p., 1920. Web. Frost, Robert. Design. Poem Hunter. N.p., 2003. Web. Kenyon, Jane. Let evening come. American Poems. N.p., 2005. Web. Stevens, Wallace. Disillusionment of Ten O’clock. Poem Hunter. N.p., 2003. Web. Thomas, Dylan. Do not go gentle into that good night. Poets.org. New Directions, N.I.. Web.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Multinational Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Multinational - Case Study Example This shows he is serious and a bit strict when it comes to business (Krause & Piske, 2007). During the team meeting, he notices that there is an argument between Mueller and Yuen Yu yet he does nothing. It was not their first time to have this disagreement, and he could see that it had affected Yuen Yu in a big way. He thought that the conflict would be solved over time, and he did not take note that they were arguing in front of their boss. Relationship between co-workers and their boss affects the discharge of duties. Those in the higher authority can overrule an order given by the juniour staff. This can be noted by the chinese colleagues following a direct order from Koch, who is of a higher rank. As a leader, Koch uses his authority to bring sanity to members during a crisis. However, his position could be misused to influence selfish interests in the company. A good working relationship between Koch and Koenig could foster respect between them, thereby bring development of good ideas (Krause & Piske, 2007). Q3: Communication, language, and expression; teamwork is a collective effort, and all players have to understand the direction of the discussion. Misinterpretation can be kept to a minimum if everybody aims for clarity. Avoid the feeling of superiority. One part of the team with a similar culture or homogeneity attempts to dominate the team process and overrule the rest of the team. One may try to swing decisions towards the direction they are comfortable with. This can cause the development of a multinational personnel selection system environment for the rest of the team leading to a poor contribution. Here the Germans are feeling superior to the Asians, which is noted by the Germans being against the points the Asians rise directly. There should be some motivators and expectations from the job that indicate the things that make someone stick to the business and team environment. The motivators can be in monetary state, incentives

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

How far was Maragaret Thatcher to blame for her downfall Essay

How far was Maragaret Thatcher to blame for her downfall - Essay Example The concept of collective development through Globalization was a new concept for the British public at that time. Unemployment, Privatization of the public companies and the revised tax system were the main areas were the British public differenced with Mrs. Thatcher which ultimately resulted in her ouster from the prime minister ship. Now the â€Å"Thatcherism† and its importance were recognized by the British public more than ever. Mrs. Thatcher was fortunate enough to witness all such changes in attitudes of the British public against her and her policies. Most of her economic, social and political policies were still debated. Though her policies succeeded in reducing inflation and budget expenditures the people of Britain suffered lot of indirect tax increases, social inequalities and unemployment during her services in the prime minister’s office. â€Å"Even as the rest of Europe toyed with socialism and state ownership, she set about privatizing the nationalized industries, which had been hitherto sacrosanct, no matter how inefficient. It worked. British Airways, an embarrassingly slovenly national carrier that very seldom showed a profit, was privatized and transformed into one of the worlds best and most profitable airlines†1 â€Å"When Margaret Thatcher took office, there were 3 million private shareholders; when she left, there were almost 11 and a half million. The tabloid newspapers latched onto this and joined their broadsheet cousins in publishing alongside the racing columns share market information and news. The popularity of privatization increased as each industry was floated on the stock exchange. When the gas industry was launched, the shares were oversubscribed by 500 percent†2 . â€Å"Before 1987 several key industries and public utilities had been transferred to private ownership, including th e telephone system, the ports, British Gas, Thatcher believed in reduced involvement

Monday, November 18, 2019

Organizational Theory, Design, and change Essay

Organizational Theory, Design, and change - Essay Example As such, it is common for organizations to improve their operations by minimizing production or operational costs for non-profit organizations. Such organizations are known to be efficient and will therefore charge low amount for their goods or services due to the low costs of production. The customers are also able to get quality services at affordable rates. Moreover, through motivation of employees, the company is able to retain loyal and efficient employees, which improves its social image within the community where it operates. Through proper social responsibility strategies, the government is able to associate with the organization and this will further enhance its image. A properly managed organization will consider an approach that will lay emphasis on initial impetus, focus, alignment, proper planning and adaptation so as to ensure value to the consumers. It is clear that entrepreneurship will set the foundation for creating value in an organization since the entrepreneur de fines the goals and the tradition of the organization. They provide the initial leadership in the organization by setting the objectives and acquiring the necessary resources. The entrepreneur also establishes the management of the organization. ... It could therefore be a conflict between the management and the investors or the management and the employees or even all employees against the investors. These conflicts could include difference in management ideologies between the management and other stakeholders, difference in targets set by different quarters of the organization and expected remuneration or reward for various achievements. In most organizations, agency problems normally occur when the management misuse the authority bestowed upon them by the other stakeholders. This is in such acts as using that authority for their own benefit at the expense of the company goals. The agency problems can be generalised as adverse selection where the investor doubts the capability of the management to promote his interest and moral hazard, where behaviour of the representative is deemed to be capable of causing harm to the organization. It is important to note that agency problem is mainly caused by mistrust and in some cases, neg ligence. Sadly though, the problem exists in every organization in one way or the other. Several efforts or actions are taken towards solving agency problems and they include: screening processes to reduce misbehaviour, offering incentives to the employees and management for positive results and achievements, well defined punishments for poor behaviour such as suspension and unpaid leaves to ensure strict adherence to the company’s principles. The company may even be forced to employ supervisors who are charged with the responsibility of checking such compliance. This method could be referred to as watchdog police. Other modes of solving agency problem are

Saturday, November 16, 2019

The Relationship Between Homelessness And Schizophrenia Essay

The Relationship Between Homelessness And Schizophrenia Essay Psychiatric disorders can lead to many types of problems. These problems can range from housing instability to disease, and even death. Having a disorder and lack of stable living conditions most often further complicates the overall health and the care this is a bit confusing for a homeless adult. Without the proper health care, the mind will become even more unstable. This does not automatically follow logically. Individuals with severe mental illness soften most times with homelessness because of their inability to accomplish daily tasks and earn money. Mental illness is serious and severe and can have a domino effect on ones life and those surrounding the individual. The hand in hand relationship that homelessness shares with mental illnesses are disturbing. One of the many mental disorders that can lead to homelessness is Schizophrenia. Stating that an individual has a mental illness can be interpreted many ways, however, it is usually defined and understood as a psychological disease or disorder. The severity of the illness determines how much of an individuals daily functioning will be affected. The ability to care for ones self, a home or household and the ability to maintain an intimate relationship are lost. Homeless people with mental disorders remain homeless for longer periods of time and begin to have less contact with family and friends. Mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or severe depression, can cause a strain on family and other social relationships (Hawkins and Abrams 2007). Studies have examined what the quality of life is like after discovering that one has a mental illness, those who become homeless and other studies focus mainly on treatment options. Suffering from a mental illness makes it more difficult to gain employment. Having poor health also cripples the individuals desire to seek help, and whether they can receive help or not is another issue. Studies that take a deeper look into the rates of homelessness could lead to better treatment and help. It is especially important to study mentally ill homeless individuals that have substance abuse since these individuals are one of the most disadvantaged groups among homeless persons (Levine and Huebner 1991). There is no one explanation as to why an individual who is mentally ill will begin abusing their bodies with drugs, it is known though that when substance abuse and mental illness are combined contact with law enforcement is inevitable. All people with mental disorders, including those who are homeless, require ongoing access to a full range of treatment and rehabilitation services to lessen the impairment and disruption produced by their condition (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2003). Most people with the mental disorder do not need hospitalisation, what they do need is better housing options and more treatment options and but can live in the community with the appropriate supportive housing options. Further studies do show however that these community-based services are far and few in between and there is not enough housing to accommodate the growing number of patients affected by a mental illness. The hardest challenge to face with helping mentally ill patients is that the illness causes other cognitive problems. Dr Yuodelis Flores states that the most serious barrier to treatment is lack of insight, persons with serious mental illness may not understand that they are ill and need care. Severe and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI) including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression and dementia impair judgment, conceptual understanding and the capacity to make appropriate behaviour decisions (HCH Clinicians Network, 2000). A patient, who is now learning of their illness, reacts irrationally and with anger and then instead of trying to understand the illness they just shut out those closest to them. Schizophrenia is a serious disorder of the mind and brain but it is also highly treatable. There is a constant flow of improvement on the medications for this illness. In addition to that, there are many new and improving psychosocial treatments and cognitive therapies for schizophrenia that are being tested and approved for use. One of the theories of what causes schizophrenia is that it is a result of a genetic predisposition combined with environmental exposures and or stress (The Internet Mental Health Initiative, 1996-2010). Stress can trigger a preexisting illness into existence, which in the case of Schizophrenia makes sense in terms of one having a genetic predisposition to the disease. Schizophrenia-like most other illnesses do not develop until after the age of 18, however, an age range is given due to the fact that illnesses have developed earlier in some. Men tend to develop schizophrenia slightly earlier than women; whereas most males become ill between 16 and 25 years o ld, most females develop symptoms several years later, and the incidence in women is noticeably higher in women after age 30 (The Internet Mental Health Initiative, 1996-2010). Taking a closer look at an individuals support system also determines if a homeless result is possible. Mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or severe depression, can cause a strain on family and other social relationships (Hawkins and Abrams 2007). Society is well aware of homeless people, but many are unaware of the reasons why and then many do not care to know the reason. When a homeless individual is seen many shy away especially if that homeless individual is acting out. This passive attitude towards the homeless does not help them nor does it help society. In 2002 the cost of schizophrenia was estimated to be $62.7 billion, with $22.7 billion excess direct health care cost $7.0 billion outpatient, $5.0 billion drugs, $2.8 billion inpatients, and $8.0 billion long-term care (The Internet Mental Health Initiative, 1996-2010). Being out of sight and out of mind, these numbers do not reflect the homeless. About 1% of the population is affected by Schizophrenia (The Merck Manuals, 2008). Schizophrenia affects men and women equally having no racial or socioeconomic preference. In the United States, schizophrenia accounts for about 1 of every 5 Social Security disability days and 2.5% of all health care expenditures (The Merck Ma nuals, 2008). Brandt (1995) studied how actively working with homeless who are suffering from schizophrenia can better their lives. He focused on the bag ladies as they are deemed social outcast as they have a tendency to act out when help is offered. Quite outspoken about his distaste on societies role in helping those in need, he began to roam the streets gathering individuals to be a part of his study. 35 homeless individuals were chosen between the ages of 22 and 70 and consisted of 17 women and 18 men. The results were significant enough to show that being proactive with these individuals is helpful no matter the age or gender. The only remaining issue however with treating homeless individuals just like with any other patient, is the need to want treatment. When someone is in need of help in whatever form of therapy needed, it is the patient that makes the initiative and this is unable to be the case with homeless individuals. Brandt (1995) acknowledged that Many different groups must be inv olved in the work. [This includes], psychiatrists, hospitals, general practitioners and the entire social welfare system. And the best possible contact must be maintained with the patient (p. 1). Antipsychotic drugs, rehabilitation, and psychotherapy are the major parts of treatment. Community support activities, such as job coaching, teach the skills needed to survive in the community. These skills enable people with schizophrenia to work, shop, care for themselves, manage a household, and it also rehabilitates their social abilities. Hospitalisation is seen more when patients relapse. Forced hospitalisation is also rare and is only seen when the individual is a threat to themselves or others (National Coalition for the Homeless, 2006). The death rate for homeless people is about four times greater than the rate for the general population and among young homeless men, the rate is even higher (National Coalition for the Homeless, 2006). According to the National Coalition for the Homeless (2006), average homeless adults die twenty years earlier than their non-homeless counterparts. Over half of homeless adults die violently and one-quarter of those is murdered (p.2). The appr opriate housing can provide the framework necessary to end homelessness for many individuals (National Coalition for the Homeless, 2006). A study done in 2002 by Folsom, McCahill, Bartels, Lindamer, Ganiats and Jeste not only examined the death rate in schizophrenic homeless individuals, but they then compared the preventative and primary care to those with severe depression. While depression is a mental illness, it does not cripple ones abilities the way that schizophrenia does. The stages of withdrawal from friends and family are the same, however an individual with depression is more likely able to describe their feelings to a doctor, and there is no stigma placed on this illness like those with schizophrenia. Schizophrenic patients can go undiagnosed for years and then when they are, many providers are uncomfortable with treating them and some do not even see a point. Folsom et al state that (2002) serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, are much more common among homeless people than in the general population. Investigations have consistently found higher rates of substance abuse, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression among homeless people than in the general population (p.1). This is why preventive treatment is very important along with better housing. The growing number of homeless people is unknown, implementing better shelters that can provide the mental treatment needed will be a big step in helping these people. Folsom et al also noted that there is a direct correlation with schizophrenia and homelessness with death, the age-adjusted mortality rate for people with schizophrenia is about two times that of the general population; cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death among people with schizophrenia. Homeless people have been reported to have a mortality rate [that is] 3.5 times as high as that of the general population (p.1). With this study and with all studies, the best care depends on the patient to supply the proper medical history along with any medical symptoms. Middle-aged and older homeless people with schizophrenia received less primary and preventive health care and were treated for fewer chronic medical problems than a comparison group with depression (Folsom, McCahill, Bartels, Lindamer, Ganiats, Jeste, 2002). Going forward with other research, monitoring the health care of schizophrenics should be compared to all the different types of mental illnesses as well as comparing them to those who have no mental illness at all. Any one of the homeless people that you see on a daily basis can be suffering from a mental illness, that fact is quite disturbing. It is something that should not be taken lightly for it comes in many forms and can affect anybody. Being able to identify the symptoms and seeking help is a key fundamental towards regaining your health back. There still is great difficulty in caring for schizophrenics and the only way for it to get better is to continue the research and find ways for all the branches in the healthcare system to work together so that the patient can have the best treatment available. In the next 20 years hopefully, there will be a cure for all types of mental illness that we see today until being able to understand what it means for those who are suffering is just as important.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Respresentation of Lolita in Society :: Essays Papers

Respresentation of Lolita in Society Lolita represents the manifested "id" in all of us. Since her creation, she has remained an anomaly of outrage and disgust, yet, unconsciously, she is the greatest sex symbol of all times. We all crave to be the "nymphet", yet society does not accept a middle aged woman running around with pigtails and a lollipop dangling from their mouth. Middle aged women envy the nymphet in her baby-doll dress, her innocent smile, and a body that is milky-clean and flawless. They want this back, they want the firm buttocks that once was cellulite-free, and the pink in their cheeks without the necessary application of Revlon rouge. So, what does the society of middle aged women do, they rely on the image of this "nymphet" to replace the tension and frustration of their own aging. This is "Lolita". She is the symbol of society that is post-adolescent. We become her pupils and spectators. She is the creature that every father loves because the innocence has not yet been touched. She is the creature w ho has the eyes of an angel and the hair of an unbleached blonde. Yet, is the character Lolita that innocent? This is where she is an anomaly to the little girls with checkered skirts and roller skates. She is a strong, independent, sexual goddess that screams 'virgin', yet is far from it. Could middle aged women get away with that? Could they stand in front of a crowd of men who wanted to pinch their cheeks, and tell them their cute, set them on their lap, and smell their talcum powdered skin? Of course not, they'd be lucky to have a husband that rolls over before he goes to bed, to stick it in for an evenings satisfaction. So here's this 'nymphet', every man is humbled by, pouring their attention to, while this nymphet just sits there, twirling her pigtails and licking her lollipop. Does she care that she is being idolized by men and envied by women? Of course not. She is independent from that. She lives to satisfy herself, while everyone stands around, working from nine to five, paying taxes, and are lucky enough to have time to watch that soap opera they taped earlier in the day. Lolita lives in all women. Women envy the nymphet's ability to not do anything, and still be loved and adored by the opposite sex.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Interaction between Humans and the Environment Essay

Interaction between Humans and the Environment The relationship between humans and the environment has changed over time because of technological advancements and innovations. During the beginning of human time the people was mainly nomadic; they hunted for food and travel around in packs. Fast forward a couple centuries the interaction between humans and the environment changed from being primarily hunting and gathering to being primarily farm heavy. Lastly in the twentieth century the relationship between humans and the environment has changed due to industrialization which led to humans exploiting the environment and polluting it. At the beginning, everyone was nomadic roaming from one region to the next scavenging for food, because of the lack of technology. It wasn’t until the first Agriculture Revolution occurred that the people change their lifestyle. The agriculture revolution led to the change in human lifestyle. For example: people began to settle down, start farms, and start to live by water sources so they could irrigate the land in order to farm. The Agricultural Revolution also sparked the domestication of animals and plants allowing a large amount of food to be produce at any time. This led to a larger population and eventually led to the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution was when the interaction between humans and the environment turned sour due to the exploitation of the environment for natural resources. The Industrial Revolution caused imperialism which was regions being colonized for their natural resources. This was one of the causes of the World Wars, which was the war of attrition – the fight for natural resources. The wars caused a lot of pollution and the war also caused a lot of natural resources to be used to fight it. But in the modern day there are many â€Å"green† projects that we used in order to preserve our natural resources and save the environment.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Heros journey Little Obama Movie

Heros journey Little Obama Movie Introduction From the presidential campaigns and now his leadership, the life travels of Barack Obama have been important for discussion in understanding the forces which shaped his personality and behaviors. Many have suggested that his success in politics stems from the fact that he was a man of many nations. As this movie proves, Obama had a history of living in more than one continent. He had different places to call â€Å"home†.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Hero’s journey: Little Obama Movie specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As this movie suggests, the places he lived in, especially when he was a child, had the effect of transforming and shaping him into the personality he is today. In this movie, the character of Obama is the focus. How his stay in Indonesia as a child (possibly) shaped such is the focus of the movie. In the movie, the role played by Obama’s parents in shaping the persona lity of the young boy is also highlighted. Thesis: Little Obama depicts how Obama was shaped by his stay in Indonesia into becoming a strong willled, friendly and diplomatic person. In Little Obama (Obama Anak Monteng), there is no struggle to present Obama the president. Instead, the childhood of Obama is traced in the most probable way it happened. In the movie, young Obama is allowed to be the child he was (Adams 2). He is allowed to do things which a child would be expected to do (without focusing on him as the future president). As would be the case for any child, the movie presents Obama learning most of his life lessons through play. In the movie, other major characters are the children whom Barry (Obama’s name in the movie) plays with. As the movie is framed, these characters help the young Obama to understand many things about his life. They help him to search for his own identity. Watching the movie, one realizes the intention of the producers to insist on the point that without this stay in Indonesia, Obama would have probably not encountered the critical questions on his identify as he did. Besides the idea of Indonesia as the setting for changing his behaviors, the movie also brings out parenting as an important issue. In this regard, the movie, besides highlighting the interactions which the young Obama had with friends, also presents the conversations and interaction with his parents. As the movie confirms, Obama learnt from, and was taught much, by his mother and stepfather.Advertising Looking for essay on american literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Little Obama captures the period of Obama’s childhood from six years to when he was ten years. The belief of the movie is that these years were the most important one in laying ground to the character of Obama. The events in the movie happen in Monteng, Jakarta of Indonesia. They occur between the years of 1967 to 1971, indicating a capture of four years of obama’s childhood. The movie opens when young Obama, referred to in the movie as Barry Obama comes to Indonesia. As it unfolds in the movie, little Obama comes into the country (Indonesia) alongside his mother (Ann Dunham). They were in the country because it was the homeland of the boy’s stepfather (Lolo Soetoro). By extension thus, Obama was coming into Indonesia as his second home because of the fact that his mother had been married to Soetoro (Asia Society 3). This movie is based on the important elements of pluralism as well as differences. In the movie, scenes are expressly developed to create an experience of thematic learning. In the first scenes, Barry Obama comes to meet difficult question on his identify as a person. Meeting these people for the fist time, one kid asks Barry, â€Å"What are you actually? Going by the way Barry is astounded by the question, it comes clear he had not in his life thought about â €˜whom’ he indeed was. This question in the end becomes the main concept on which the whole of the movie develops. In the movie, Barry has to identify who he is because questions on his identity are not dying. In another of such questions, another kid wonders, â€Å"westerner, but dark colored?†. Going by the way he was astonished again, this must also be the first time that Barry has to question himself on the ‘kind’ of a westerner that he was. It was the first time he had to come into hard questions on his identify as an African-America. The ‘westerner’, which is the reference used by the other kids simply means that they were aware of where Barry and his family had come from. On this ground, it is clear the kids were in some way conscious of the history of westerners including their physical identifies. In this scene thus, these kids wondered because to them there was no synergy between Barry and ‘westerners’. To Barry, thes e questions were to linger and disturb the mind. He was to question his identity and the differences he had with the other westerners which had prompted this reaction. As the movie unfolds, one finds that Barry was being helped to answer questions on his identity. This was especially the case as questions kept coming (from the kids) which forced Barry to think more of ‘who’ he was. Another statement, which was almost a rhetorical question was, â€Å"weird hair. Big nose†¦.†. In this scene, this kid was indeed pin-pointing on some of the things which according to them made Barry, a ‘different westerner’. They for example pointed out his hair here.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Hero’s journey: Little Obama Movie specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As the movie unfolds, it comes clear that young Barry (Obama) was learning so many things which besides his belief also related t o his attitudes and perceptions. In learning positive attitudes and perceptions, the movie presents Barry’s parents as having played the greatest role. In one of the scenes, Barry Obama learns from his stepfather on how to do boxing. In this boxing lesson, young Barry is taught by (Lolo Soetoro) his stepfather that in life one has to be strong. He learns that life has to be approached with a complete resolve to defend the self from the extremity by others. After highlighting the immigration as well as the problems of acceptance by his friends, the movie presents young Obama as finally gelling with these people. At this point, the movie moves to the friends that young Obama had as well as the games they play. Here, the movie moves to the friendship he develops with Slamet (Slamet Djanuadi) and Yuniardi who are other children in the neibourhood. There are many things that these friends are able to do together. Play is the most important thing they do all the time. In this, the young boys play tennis and another game called marple. These games are seen to be uniting the little Obama more and more with the two friends Yuniardi and Slamet An event during these games with friends is of worth noting. This is when while playing with his close friends, Barry encounters and does clash with a boy named Carut. Carut belongs to a gang of bullies. In this event, Barry effectively defeats the bullies and shows his fighting (karate) prowess. As he comes out of this event and analyzes it later, young Barry has learnt many important lessons. The most important lesson that the young boy learns is that to fight, â€Å"isn’t the solution†. He learns that conflicts can be amicably resolved. Here, he also learns that differences should not be a cause to war. In the scene, he comes out identifying that violence does not pay and instead is a loss to all parties who would benefit more if they negotiated and made peace. From this fight, Obama learns that besides avo iding war, he also has to accept himself and who he is as different from others. From the incident, the young Obama learns that opening up and thus sharing is the best path to take. He learns that he has to accept that he has differences with others but has also to respect others who are different from him. In the movie, these lessons on how to live with others do not just come from his own experience. Instead, as the movie presents, they are lessons which are also impacted to him by his mother in the scenes she teaches him to avoid seeking the path of confrontation.Advertising Looking for essay on american literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More As the movie unfolds, Barry Obama in the end learns who he is and comes out able to appreciate and accept differences. After this full turn-around in personality development, Barry no longer shrinks into himself. He does not discriminate either. This full self-acceptance comes out clearly, when Obama plays with his friends. He comes out an effective player. He is very good in the game of ping-pong. His friends adore his talents in the game. They like him to play with them more and more. Confidence having been built, young Obama moves beyond his neibourhood. He begins to interact with not only his peers but also well-known people in the locality. As the movie progresses, the young boy is, for example, seen riding on motorbikes with great singsong. At this point, it is clear that the young Obama has developed. Towards the end of the movie, Barry is seen as having fully adopted to the environment and was now leaving in harmony with his friends and neighbors. He had many friends and was now known to many in the neibourhood. However as this process is happening; the family is engaged in a conflict. The mother and stepfather have to part ways. This makes the beginning of the conclusion to the movie when young Obama is now leaving for United States. Conclusion The above discussion proves that Little Obama is a complete depiction on how Obama was shaped by his stay in Indonesia into becoming a strong willled, friendly and diplomatic person. As the discussion identifies, from the discrimination he initially received and the questions he had to answer on who he is, Obama learnt on his identity. This identity in the end made him believe that he could do anything because the differences he had did not limit him in any way from doing anything that others did. The movie identifies that as he interacted and conflicted, he learnt on the need to take paths of diplomacy. According to the movie, in the country, Obama made friends across the social and cultural divide and thus le ant on the need to be friendly. Adams, Jonathan. Movie about Obama’s childhood opens today. 1/7/2010. Web. https://www.aol.com/news/ Asia Society. Barack Obama on Film: ane movie reccounts president Barack  Obama’s childhood in Indonesia. 21/3/2011. Web.. https://asiasociety.org/barack-obama-film

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Marketing-Consumer Behavior essay

Marketing-Consumer Behavior essay Marketing-Consumer Behavior essay Marketing-Consumer Behavior essayMarriott Hotels is a renowned international brand operating in the hospitality industry that focuses on the international market expansion and attempts to gain the positive brand image through the formation of the positive perception of the brand by the public.The perception of the brand is quite positive at the moment. At the moment, Marriott Hotels attempts to create a stronger brand image through the formation of the vision of the company as the hospitality company offering hospitality services of the superb quality. The development of the positive perception of the brand image is achieved through advertisements based on the video advertisement that visualizes the ideal hospitality services offered by Marriott Hotels. Video offers not only visual messages conveyed to the audience but also audio messages that stress the positive image of the company’s hospitality services. The advertisement emphasizes the superb quality of services offered by the company. The company makes a breakthrough distinguishing its services from other companies operating in the hospitality industry. In such a way, the company attracts the target customer group and draws attention to its brand and hospitality services as the company that offers high quality hospitality services worldwide and offers the full range of hospitality-related services.The advertisement of the company contributes to the formation of a strong brand image that customers can easily retain in their memory due to the bright images and colors used in the course of the advertisement. The advertisement is catchy and bright but, at the same time, it creates a solid image of the company that customers learn and retain in their memory. As a result, customers form a strongly positive image of the company and develop a positive attitude to the company and its services. The advertisement persuades them that Marriott Hotels can offer superb hospitality services in any part of the world .The exposure (stimulus) of the advertisement catches the attention of the audience. At the same time, the interpretation (individual meaning) of the advertisement is clear since the audience understands that Marriott Hotels offer hospitality services of the superb quality. The advertisement influences the sensory perception of the advertisement.   The audience almost feels the scent of the environment, where the advertisement is shot. The sound is distinct and clear. The audio watermarking is virtually present in the advertisement. The sound symbolism gives positive implications and makes the audience wanting to touch the screen. The advertisement is haptic conveying the development of positive emotions and rise of the expectations of the miracle to come. The exposure of the advertisement creates the expectation of happiness from services of the superb quality of products of Marriott Hotels. The audience becomes active participants rather than mere viewers of the advertisement. T he advertisement manipulates certainty as it shows almost improbable benefits offered by Marriott Hotels.The visualization makes a breakthrough forming the difference of Marriott Hotels from other hotels. The advertisement uses distinct stimuli such as video imaging. The relevance of the content of the advertisement and its message is accurate and high. The interpretation of the advertisement may vary due to the variety of objects depicted during the advertisement that may have multiple meanings and implications.In such a way, the advertisement makes the clear perceptual positioning of Marriott Hotels as the company offering superb hospitality services.

Monday, November 4, 2019

Response paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Response - Research Paper Example The book argues that history is being used wrongly, and I tend to agree with the idea. It is time when we find new ways that can bring us to common goals and objectives more so in the modern era where competition has become so stiff (Sandbrook, Richard, and Ali, pg 36) Hunt sees globalization is seen a means to end the world war and tensions. Indeed, world rivalry has been on the rise due to past experiences such as cold war and different ideologies that led to world wars (Sandbrook, Richard, and Ali pg 45. Thus, from the book, globalization provides a new way of how to view ourselves around the globe, they call it the paradigm of the shift. I find the sense of the significance and relevance of the writer’s argument. This is because the sources are just mere shadows in key areas. Thus, we should combine pre-existing social-cultural theories in order to develop new perspectives on history. Hunt sees no harm in globalization as the corrective measures are within us. Religion is one of the virtues that we can apply so that we don’t get immersed with globalization. It is true with religion values since they use societal values that ensure we maintain our norms (Sandbrook, Richard, and Ali, pg 40). Hence even, if we interact, our past is never lost. Another way proposed is by the use of economic ideology. We should embrace the bilateral ties so that we strengthened ties among ourselves. Evolution occurs, and we should not stick to our thoughts alone but to be flexible in our reasoning. That’s what Hunt, suggests to the historians who are held up in their minds. I tend to agree with Hunt. The past will always hold us together; our fate is almost being determined through the actions that even the current generation never participated. But, there are modern ways that can help us to be more cohesive, human and bring justice to ourselves, and there is no reason for us to deny such opportunity However, critics will never seize to exist as part of our

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Counter Terrorism in Comparative Perspective Essay - 1

Counter Terrorism in Comparative Perspective - Essay Example As a measure to retaliate to and prevent terror attacks, America and its allies have initiated several counter-terror operations in perceived geo-political hotspots. But differentiating between what comprises an act of terror and what can be classified as counter-terror is never straightforward - the official use of these labels is often purely a matter of rhetoric and self-serving bias. As renowned public intellectual Noam Chomsky succinctly points out, â€Å"if it is done by our side, the act is counter-terror; if it is done by the enemy, it is terror†. (Chomsky, as quoted in Bowden, 2003, p.51) A glance at the presentation of conflicts in mainstream media sources bears out this point. Depending on who the consumers of news information are, notations of terror and counter-terror are conveniently swapped. Hence, conceptions and definitions of these two opposing terms will have to begin by dispelling rhetorical exaggerations, intrinsic biases and other barriers to truth. In th is context, it is not surprising that the word ‘terrorism’ has become so subjective as to be without any concrete meaning. Nevertheless, the word has a frightening resonance, because people â€Å"tend to believe that it does have meaning and to use and abuse the word by applying it to whatever they hate as a way of avoiding rational thought and discussion and, frequently, excusing their own illegal and immoral behaviour†. (Whitbeck, 2002, p.52) The vagueness of the term is evident from the range of verbal formulations (signifying diverse acts) to which it is applied – â€Å"Mass murder," "assassination," "arson" and "sabotage" are available (to all of which the phrase "politically motivated" can be added if appropriate). Such crimes, moreover, are already on the statute books, rendering specific criminal legislation for "terrorism" unnecessary. Such precise formulations, however, do not carry the overwhelming, demonizing and thought-deadening impact of th e word "terrorism," which is, of course, precisely the charm of the word for its more cynical and unprincipled users and abusers. If someone commits "politically motivated mass murder," people might be curious as to the cause or grievances which inspired such a crime, but no cause or grievance can justify (or even explain) "terrorism," which, all right-thinking people agree, is the ultimate evil.† (Whitbeck, 2002, p.52) The best indication of difficulties in defining terrorism is the fact that some of the most inspirational public figures of the twentieth century such as Nelson Mandela, Menachem Begin, Yasser Arafat and Gerry Adams were all regarded as terrorists at some point during their public life. This classification of them being terrorists co-existed or transformed into more respectable classifications such as statesmen and peacemakers – indeed, Mandela, Begin and Arafat, have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and Mandela is viewed today by many as the leading m oral authority of his time in the world. (Tsoukala, 2004, p.417) Such examples typify the hazard of defining terrorism and terrorists. It also shows that these terms are easier to talk about than to define. As noted political commentator, Nissan Horowitz, points out in the major Israeli newspaper Ha'aretz, the meaning of the term terrorism is all in the eye of the beholder. To give a concrete example, he asks â€Å"