Marco Polo

Marco Polo was no doubt one of the most influential explorers in the world. His tales of the East opened the minds of the Europeans, and his tales were a catalyst for the Age of Exploration in Europe. His influence on geographical exploration was so pivotal that many years later Christopher Columbus used Marco Polo’s book on his voyage to the New World. Marco Polo’s book, The Travels of Marco Polo, was widely published and thousands of copies were printed in different languages. However, many skeptics believe that Marco Polo never actually set foot in China, but used other traveler’s accounts of China as his own.Despite Marco Polo’s huge influence on Europe, the false and wildly exaggerated claims and the amount of Chinese Culture he failed to mention in his book made it evident that Marco Polo was really a fraud and never really made it to China. Historians have questioned Marco Polo’s credibility with his many dubious claims in his book, suggestin g that he also fabricated his story about setting foot in China. One false claim Marco Polo made was that he assisted Kublai Khan as a military advisor during the siege of Hsyiang-Yang.According to records, the Chinese siege ended on January 1273, which was two years before Marco Polo actually got to northern China. Another doubtful claim Marco Polo made was that he was the governor of Yangzhou, and served as an ambassador under Kublai Khan. Yet despite his high-ranking positions, his name does not appear in any of the Chinese records. Historians have argued that Marco Polo’s publisher, Rusticello, might have exaggerated his stories to make it more interesting, but that just furthermore questions the credibility of Marco Polo’s book.If Marco Polo and Rusticello exaggerated and lied about so many things, they might have lied or exaggerated about Marco Polo even setting foot in China. In addition to his questionable claims, Marco Polo also fails to mention important aspe cts of 13th century Chinese life and culture. Marco Polo also omits many important aspects of Chinese life and culture from his book, The Travels of Marco Polo , which would have been hard to leave out as an European if he really set foot in China. Marco Polo claimed that he spent many years traveling around China, serving as â€Å"The Eyes† of Kublai Khan.Yet during the time he spent traveling South China, he fails to mention anything at all about tea drinking, which was popular in southern China during Polo’s time. He also fails to mention the binding of a woman’s feet, which would have fascinated the Europeans due to how strange and different it was. This raises suspicion, since Marco Polo vividly describes other aspects of Chinese culture and life with so much detail; yet he fails to mention the slightest bit about tea drinking and feet binding, strongly proving that he only borrowed descriptions from other travelers.Other aspects of Chinese Culture and life he omitted from his book were the use of chopsticks, Chinese writing, Chinese books and printing, and porcelain; all important aspects of Chinese life and culture. However, the most alarming thing Marco Polo failed to mention was the Great Wall of China. Though some historians might argue it was in tatters during this period of time, it still remained China’s greatest architectural achievement, and shouldn’t have been missed out from Marco Polo’s book if Marco Polo actually went to China.Marco Polo may have missed out on many aspects of Chinese culture and life, but his book never ceased to amaze the Europeans from the moment it was published. Marco Polo’s book told of a land to the east never known to the Europeans before, and opened up the Europeans’ medieval minds whether or not those accounts of China actually belonged to him. At first, Europeans found his tales hard to believe, but instead of rejecting Marco Polo’s stories, they embrac ed it as a romantic fantasy.Nonetheless, The Travels of Marco Polo became Europe’s most widely read book, due to the fascinating and detailed descriptions of Kublai Khan’s wealth and his magnificent empire. His descriptions of China was that of a country with thriving towns, and with cities far richer than any place in Europe in terms of goods, services and technology. Marco Polo may not have included everything about Chinese culture, but he still managed to amaze the Europeans with descriptions of paper money, at the same time introducing Europe to coal, a substance they had never heard of before.Marco Polo may have opened up the minds of European and his stories may have been a major cause of the Age of Exploration, but in the end evidence proves that he was merely a useful â€Å"recorder of Information†, as deemed by Frances Wood, Marco Polo’s No. 1 critic. Despite Marco Polo’s book about China, which fascinated readers all around Europe, the am ount of false and dubious claims in Marco Polo’s book combined with the amount of important aspects of Chinese life and culture omitted from the book strongly proves that Marco Polo was not a credible source and never really set foot in China.His false statements and wild exaggerations in his book have caused historians to question his credibility, and the amount of omissions in Marco Polo’s book are simply too great to confirm that he really set foot in China. Nonetheless, Marco Polo was a huge influence to Europe, whether or not his tales were fabricated from other travelers, and remains one of the most famous explorers to this day. Marco Polo Marco Polo was no doubt one of the most influential explorers in the world. His tales of the East opened the minds of the Europeans, and his tales were a catalyst for the Age of Exploration in Europe. His influence on geographical exploration was so pivotal that many years later Christopher Columbus used Marco Polo’s book on his voyage to the New World. Marco Polo’s book, The Travels of Marco Polo, was widely published and thousands of copies were printed in different languages. However, many skeptics believe that Marco Polo never actually set foot in China, but used other traveler’s accounts of China as his own.Despite Marco Polo’s huge influence on Europe, the false and wildly exaggerated claims and the amount of Chinese Culture he failed to mention in his book made it evident that Marco Polo was really a fraud and never really made it to China. Historians have questioned Marco Polo’s credibility with his many dubious claims in his book, suggestin g that he also fabricated his story about setting foot in China. One false claim Marco Polo made was that he assisted Kublai Khan as a military advisor during the siege of Hsyiang-Yang.According to records, the Chinese siege ended on January 1273, which was two years before Marco Polo actually got to northern China. Another doubtful claim Marco Polo made was that he was the governor of Yangzhou, and served as an ambassador under Kublai Khan. Yet despite his high-ranking positions, his name does not appear in any of the Chinese records. Historians have argued that Marco Polo’s publisher, Rusticello, might have exaggerated his stories to make it more interesting, but that just furthermore questions the credibility of Marco Polo’s book.If Marco Polo and Rusticello exaggerated and lied about so many things, they might have lied or exaggerated about Marco Polo even setting foot in China. In addition to his questionable claims, Marco Polo also fails to mention important aspe cts of 13th century Chinese life and culture. Marco Polo also omits many important aspects of Chinese life and culture from his book, The Travels of Marco Polo , which would have been hard to leave out as an European if he really set foot in China. Marco Polo claimed that he spent many years traveling around China, serving as â€Å"The Eyes† of Kublai Khan.Yet during the time he spent traveling South China, he fails to mention anything at all about tea drinking, which was popular in southern China during Polo’s time. He also fails to mention the binding of a woman’s feet, which would have fascinated the Europeans due to how strange and different it was. This raises suspicion, since Marco Polo vividly describes other aspects of Chinese culture and life with so much detail; yet he fails to mention the slightest bit about tea drinking and feet binding, strongly proving that he only borrowed descriptions from other travelers.Other aspects of Chinese Culture and life he omitted from his book were the use of chopsticks, Chinese writing, Chinese books and printing, and porcelain; all important aspects of Chinese life and culture. However, the most alarming thing Marco Polo failed to mention was the Great Wall of China. Though some historians might argue it was in tatters during this period of time, it still remained China’s greatest architectural achievement, and shouldn’t have been missed out from Marco Polo’s book if Marco Polo actually went to China.Marco Polo may have missed out on many aspects of Chinese culture and life, but his book never ceased to amaze the Europeans from the moment it was published. Marco Polo’s book told of a land to the east never known to the Europeans before, and opened up the Europeans’ medieval minds whether or not those accounts of China actually belonged to him. At first, Europeans found his tales hard to believe, but instead of rejecting Marco Polo’s stories, they embrac ed it as a romantic fantasy.Nonetheless, The Travels of Marco Polo became Europe’s most widely read book, due to the fascinating and detailed descriptions of Kublai Khan’s wealth and his magnificent empire. His descriptions of China was that of a country with thriving towns, and with cities far richer than any place in Europe in terms of goods, services and technology. Marco Polo may not have included everything about Chinese culture, but he still managed to amaze the Europeans with descriptions of paper money, at the same time introducing Europe to coal, a substance they had never heard of before.Marco Polo may have opened up the minds of European and his stories may have been a major cause of the Age of Exploration, but in the end evidence proves that he was merely a useful â€Å"recorder of Information†, as deemed by Frances Wood, Marco Polo’s No. 1 critic. Despite Marco Polo’s book about China, which fascinated readers all around Europe, the am ount of false and dubious claims in Marco Polo’s book combined with the amount of important aspects of Chinese life and culture omitted from the book strongly proves that Marco Polo was not a credible source and never really set foot in China.His false statements and wild exaggerations in his book have caused historians to question his credibility, and the amount of omissions in Marco Polo’s book are simply too great to confirm that he really set foot in China. Nonetheless, Marco Polo was a huge influence to Europe, whether or not his tales were fabricated from other travelers, and remains one of the most famous explorers to this day.

Business Gone Green Ethical Reasoning Assignment Essay

AB0603 Business Gone Green Ethical Reasoning Assignment Summary Page| Your name: Chia Xinying| Your Instructor: Dr. Josephine Lang| Seminar Group: 01 Word Count: 1095| Briefly lay out, in bulleted-form in the space provided within this page (i.e., do not elaborate), the content of your write-up in addressing the various criteria in the ethical reasoning rubric.| Criteria| Your points| 1. Specify the ethical issue identified| * Edited women from their Saudi Arabia’s catalogue * Goes against Ikea Group and Sweden’s values * Reflects the pervasive ethical business challenge faced * Further ethical implications such as cultural imperialism| 2. Issue construction: Theoretical perspectives used to elaborate on the issue| * Consequentialism – Ethical Egoism: Self interest to garner business support justified * Consequentialism – Utilitarianism: Went against view of majority; unjustified * Deontology –Kantianism: In accordance to moral rules of Saudi Arabia, against principle moral of rights * The Conventional Approach: Follows conventional Saudi Arabia’s advertising; justified| 3. Issue construction: Uncertainties inherent in the issue| * Business ethics and corporate social responsibility- search for universal values for international commercial behaviour * Cultural Imperialism – Infringement of Islam values- Westerners criticize what they do not understand, it might not be right to criticize Ikea’s behaviour * Intent of altering Saudi’s Catalogue – intent remains unknown| 4. Explanation & justification: Effects on key stakeholders| * Ikea as a corporation & its employees- negative repercussions on its reputation and credibility thus imperative for the company to adopt an international guideline * Ikea’s local and global customers- many Swedes were offended by Ikea’s decision * Swedish government – have portrayed Sweden as being gender unequal| 5. Conclusion: Values, synthesis, and trade offs| * Important that Ikea stands by its values in all circumstances * In order to send the correct message to its consum ers target * Corporate  red light to Ikea to take cultural marketing issues more seriously * Act in the interest of its stakeholders as it serves an indirect representation. * How to reconcile localization with a universal ethics code, however, will remain a challenge for Ikea as well as other corporations.| Checklist | 1. Summary page ____ 2. 900 to 1100 Words Essay ___ 3. List of References ____ | 4. Signed Declaration of Academic Integrity _____ 5. Self-assessed Ethical Reasoning Rubric ______| NANYANG BUSINESS SCHOOL AB0603 – Business Gone Green Ethical Reasoning Assignment 1095 words (excluding headers, sub-headers and citations) Name: Chia Xinying Student Matriculation No.: U1110173A Instructor: Dr Josephine Lang Definition of the Ethical issue Ikea, the international furniture company, edited women from their Saudi Arabia’s catalogue. This action is deemed ethically inappropriate, as it seems to support gender inequality, which goes against Ikea Group and Sweden’s values. (Quinn, 2012) Some may argue that Ikea was submitting to pressure from the conservative Islamic state while others say that Ikea was just respecting and being understanding towards Saudi Arabia’s cultural standards. This media coverage aptly reflects the pervasive ethical business challenge faced by globalized companies, where it is difficult to find a balance between international commercial behaviour and localization of marketing communications. Moreover, this issue could lead to further ethical implications such as cultural imperialism, which will be discussed further. Theoretical Perspectives to Elaborate on the Issue 1) Principles approach (a) Consequentialism – Ethical Egoism Under the egoism approach, Ikea’s decision is justifiable as the move to satisfy Saudi monarchy’s gender segregation rules (Kayyem, 2012) could be seen as an act of self-interest to garner business support in a male-dominated society. On the other hand, Ikea may have also thought that it is an ethical action to be sensitive to women’s rights in Saudi Arabia and conform to them. (b) Consequentialism – Utilitarianism On the basis that following the view of the majority will produce the best consequence, Ikea’s action is unjustifiable as its action is against the values of Ikea, Sweden and even United Nations (United Nations Millennium Goals). Ikea’s act has thus garnered many bad press and negative reaction from the general public. It has also worsened its own brand image and reputation in the globalized economy. (c) Deontology -Kantianism Ikea’s actions are in accordance to moral rules dictated by the Sharia council as women’s rights in Saudi Arabia is largely influenced and defined by Islam and tribal customs. However, this conflicts with the moral principle of rights stating that, â€Å" All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.† (Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights) 2) The Conventional Approach In this final approach, the justification of an act depends on the prevailing norms of the society. In Saudi’s advertisements, women only appear infrequently. (Quinn, 2012) It is not unusual to see censors blacking out many parts of a women’s body in imported magazines. Thus Ikea’s actions will be deemed acceptable to the conventional approach of advertisements in Saudi Arabia. From the different theoretical perspectives above, it clear that the moral rules and principles that Saudi Arabia follows is different from the rest of the world. Thus it really boils down to which values do Ikea chooses to uphold. Uncertainties Inherent in the Issue (a) Business ethics and corporate social responsibility  Being a globalized business, Ikea will be constantly dealing with business ethics issue such as the search for universal values for international commercial behaviour. For example, when you adapt your business practices to the country’s customs, cultural values and legal requirements, it might be seen as unacceptable in your home markets. (Baker, 2012) Vice versa, if Ikea were to release an unaltered version of the catalogues in Saudi Arabia, would there be a backlash in the Muslim community? This business uncertainty remains a challenge to international companies. (b) Cultural Imperialism – Infringement of Islam values Furthermore, there are many misconceptions in the West about women’s life in Saudi Arabia (NAFJAN, 2012). Western critics towards women rights in Saudi has â€Å"failed to understand the uniqueness of Saudi Society†(Zoepf, 2010) and thus should not inflict western values or lifestyles on the Saudi Arabians said journalist Maha Akeei, a frequent critic of Saudi’s patriarchal customs. (Hiel, 2007) Since Westerners criticize what they do not understand, it might not be right to criticize Ikea’s behaviour when Ikea is being sensitive to their culture. (c) Intent of altering Saudi’s Catalogue While the reason why Ikea decided to steer away from their progressive Swedish values at home is unclear, it is difficult to ascertain whether the issue was ethical as mentioned earlier. Effects on key stakeholders (a) Ikea as a corporation & its employees Ikea has always been a brand conscious company who has an image  that cares about sustainability and its moral values. The company is named one of the ‘World’s Most Ethical Companies’ for the fourth consecutive year in 2010. (PRNewswire, 2010) However, the fact that the company could betray the company’s values at the drop of a hat, have disappointed many of its customers. Even though Ikea was quick to apologise, its actions already has negative repercussions on its reputation and credibility. (Knowledge@Wharton, 2012) Therefore, it is imperative for the company to adopt an international guideline for its employees to follow to better deal with such dilemmas in the future. The company continued: â€Å"We are now reviewing our routines to safeguard a correct content presentation from a values point of view in the different versions of the IKEA Catalogue worldwide.† (Quinn, 2012) (b) Ikea’s local and global customers Moreover, many Swedes were offended by Ikea’s decision, believing that the deletion of women from the Saudi catalogue portrayed their country as being â€Å"gender unequal.†(Vasic, 2012) Global customers who are supporters of women’s rights will also think less of Ikea and be less loyal towards Ikea. (c) Swedish government Even though Ikea is a private company, it inevitably projects an image of Sweden around the world. (Swedish equality minister Nyamko Sabuni, CBC News, 2012) An article of the Swedish Institute also further substantiates that â€Å"Ikea is doing more for the image of Sweden than all governmental efforts† (Wà ¤stberg, O., 2009). As mentioned, Ikea’s decision might have portrayed Sweden as being gender unequal, thus it is important for Ikea to uphold Sweden’s image, as it is a corporate representation of the country. In all, Ikea’s reputation has taken a toll and should operate with the right values expected from its customers. Conclusion Based on the ethical theories of egoism, conventional approach and moral rules in Saudi Arabia, Ikea’s actions are deemed ethical while based on utilitarianism and principles of rights, their actions are deemed  unethical. While one can never satisfy everyone, it is important that Ikea stands by its values in all circumstances, (i.e. sent the original Swedish version of the catalogue to Saudi Arabia) especially when it involves a violation of human rights, (Knowledge@Wharton, 2012) to send the correct message to its consumers target. While there might be nuances of cultural imperialism when different stakeholders criticize Ikea’s actions, it once again boils down to understanding both cultures fully before making a stand. To recapitulate, through globalization and communications revolution, it is inevitable for companies to face ethical and cultural conflicts. Ikea reflects the realistic marketing choices confronting many globalized companies around the world, with the companies not hesitating to localize their marketing communications though it is against the company’s code of conduct. While Ikea’s motive remains unknown, it has apologised nonetheless. This lesson learnt serves as a corporate red light to Ikea to take cultural marketing issues more seriously and to act in the interest of its stakeholders as it serves an indirect representation. Also, exactly how to reconcile localization with a universal ethics code, however, will remain a challenge for Ikea as well as other corporations. References: Quinn, B. (2012). Ikea apologises over removal of women from Saudi Arabia catalogue. The Guardian: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/oct/02/ikea-apologises-removing-women-saudi-arabia-catalogue United Nation. (2010) United Nations Millennium Goals http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/ United Nations (2010) The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 1 http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/index.shtml Baker (2012) IKEA’s Saudi catalogue apology – right and wrong http://www.mallenbaker.net/csr/post.php?id=453 Zoepf, Katherine (2010). â€Å"Talk of Women’s Rights Divides Saudi Arabia†. The New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/01/world/middleeast/01iht-saudi.html?pagewanted=1&src=me&_r=0 Hiel, Betsy (2007). â€Å"Dhahran women push the veil aside†. Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Retrieved 19 September 2010. http://triblive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/middleeastreports/s_507462.html PRNewswire ( 2010) IKEA Named as One of the ‘World’s Most Ethical Companies’ for Fourth Consecutive Year in 2010 http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ikea-named-as-one-of-the-worlds-most-ethical-companies-for-fourth-consecutive-year-in-2010-89384407.html Arabic Knowledge@Wharton. (2012, October 16). Missing the Picture: IKEA’s Women-free Catalogue in Saudi Arabia Fails to Protect Company Values and Reputation. Retrieved from Arabic Knowledge@Wharton: http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/arabic/article.cfm?articleid=2880 Vasic 2012 Ikea Erases Women From Saudi Arabian Catalogue http://blogs.ubc.ca/ninavasic/2012/10/02/15/ Swedish equality minister Nyamko Sabuni, CBC News, 2012 Ikea regrets editing women out of Saudi cataloguehttp://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2012/10/01/ikea-saudi-catalogue-controversy.html Wà ¤stberg, O.(2009) Branding Sweden & Ikea http://www.placemarketing.nl/countrybranding/branding-sweden-ikea/ Declaration of Academic Integrity Declaration of Academic Integrity Please sign (for hard copy submissions) or put a tick in the box (for online submissions) to indicate that you have read and accepted the following statements. Your assignment will not be accepted without this declaration ————————————————- ————————————————- I confirm that: ————————————————- I have read and understood the University’s Shared Values & Honour Code, including the information on practices concerning the academic integrity (given in http://academicintegrity.ntu.edu.sg/a-guide-to-academic-integrity/) and that in the attached coursework submission I have worked within its expectations. ————————————————- I am aware that failure to act in accordance with the University’s Shared Values & Honour Code may lead to the imposition of penalties which may include the requirement to revise and resubmit an assignment, receiving a lower grade, or receiving an F grade for the assignment; suspension from the University or termination of my candidature. ————————————————- I consent to the University copying and distributing any or all of my work in any form and using third parties to verify whether my work contains plagiarised material, and for quality assurance purposes. ☑ I have read and accept the above. If you require any further guidance about academic integrity, please talk to your profess or refer to http://academicintegrity.ntu.edu.sg Course title: Business Gone Green Course Code: AB0603 Assignment: Ethical Reasoning I, Chia Xinying, declare that the work which I am submitting is original and that I have made proper referencing and citations (where appropriate and required). Chia Xinying 10th March 2013 NameDate Signature AB 0603 Business Gone Green Ethical Reasoning Rubric ISSUE DEFINITION: Describes the Issue of the Situation| Weak| Defines the issue either too narrowly or too broadly with embedded personal biases| Average| Defines the explicit issue appropriately and impartially| Professional| Defines the issue holistically and impartially with logical elaboration| | Weak Average Professional____________________________ 1 2 3| ISSUE CONSTRUCTION : Identifies Alternative Theoretical Perspectives| Weak| Identifies only one theoretical perspective with scant elaboration| Average| Identifies only two theoretical perspectives with some elaboration | Professional| Identifies numerous pertinent theoretical perspectives with good elaboration| | Weak Average Professional____________________________ 1 2 3| ISSUE CONSTRUCTION: Identifies and Elaborates on Uncertainties| Weak| Unable to identify uncertainties inherent in the ethical situation| Average| Identifies only a few uncertainties inherent in the situation with inadequate elaboration| Professional| Incorporates a comprehensive understanding of uncertainties with logical arguments| | Weak Average Professional_____________________________ 1 2 3| EXPLANATION AND JUSTIFICATION: Discusses Effects on Key Stakeholders| Weak| Does not directly describe effects of issue on key stakeholders | Average| Provides little or only superficial discussion of effects of issue on key stakeholders | Professional| Identifies the key stakeholders and addresses their interests and concerns holistically with evidentiary support| | Weak Average Professional_____________________________ 1 2 3| CONCLUSION: Clarifies Values, Synthesis and Trade-offs| Weak| Does not discuss the issue holistically and does not explain how various factors were weighed in arriving at a conclusion| Average| Discuss the issue within a narrow context and provides inadequate evaluation of alternatives and weighing of factors | Professional| Provides a holistic discussion of the issue, reconciles conflicting values/interests, and justifies trade-offs made in reaching a conclusion| | Weak Average Professional_____________________________ 1 2 3| Sources: (a) Wolcott, Susan k., (2005). Colloquium on Change in Accounting Education, October 28, 2005. (b) Sonenshein, Scott. (2007) The role of construction, intuition and justification in responding to ethical issues at work: the sensemaking-intuition model. Academy of Management Review, Vol. 32, No.4, pp. 1022-1040.

Management in Health and social care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Management in Health and social care - Essay Example By contrast, the new reform models require purchasers-government-appointed authorities, private insurers, or risk-bearing groups of health providers-to proactively manage and allocate resources amongst different health care needs. Purchasers are expected to manage treatment decision-making by physicians and other health providers. Managed competition and traditional single structured management combine elements of both government planning and market approaches. Managed care, another concept that is often referred to in the context of health care reform, is the mechanism through which managed competition proposals seek to obtain cost savings, but as described further below, can be employed in any health care system. The internal market programme has been surprisingly successful. The large majority of the measures of which the programme was made up have been adopted in time. Admittedly, there are areas which lag behind (such as free movement of persons). Moreover, it has not always bee n possible to maintain the rigorous approach originally and a lot remains to be done with regard to implementing the adopted measures at national level. Nevertheless, the essence of the internal market is in place, which finds perhaps its most spectacular expression in the complete abolition of controls on the movement of goods. From an economic point of view, the question whether there is an external dimension to the internal market sounds almost ridiculous. How could, an economist would argue, a policy of economic integration that is as encompassing as the internal market programme and that applies to twelve developed countries which play an important role in international trade not affect trade and economic relations with the outside world However, from the point of view of law-and policy-making the question could be raised in the early stages, as indeed it has been. One can safely say that until 1988 the attitude of the Community's institutions towards both the external effects of the internal market programme and the relationship between the programme and the Community's external policies was one of benign neglect. Before describing the competition-oriented reform models, a preliminary question must be addressed: why is health care reform needed A number of factors have converged creating strong pressures for health care reform in developed countries. These factors include: concerns over increases in total spending on health care services; concerns over rapidly increasing government spending; access and rationing concerns; and concerns over the cost-effectiveness and, indeed, effectiveness of many services supplied. Let us look more closely at the forces contributing to reform throughout the 1980s and 1990s, beginning first with the concern over growth in total health care spending. Throughout the 1970s there were significant increases in the proportion of gross domestic product (GDP) (the total value of all goods and services produced by a country) absorbed by health care spending. Between 1972 and 1982 there was a 36-percent, 30-percent, 26-percent and 25-percent increase, respectively, in the percentage of GDP spent on

Short Critical Reflection Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Short Critical Reflection Paper - Essay Example There are two types of databases that are responsible for information. The first consists of a public domain database. This type of database is accessible for the public use. The second consists of a propriety database, which is restricted towards individuals who have membership from a local university. The difference between the databases is due to the fact one requires membership and one is open to the public. This is due to the fact that knowledge and articles that are in the Ashford library databases are scholarly articles written by scholars and are highly more credible than the articles that are yielded in the Google search engines. Most search engines will yield the same results and it is clear that the quality of information between the two databases is clearly distinguishable. Without a doubt, the information age has literally been transformed throughout the last century. The challenge is no doubt to manage this clusters of information that is widely available, which is why the information age is not all good.... Most search engines will yield the same results and it is clear that the quality of information between the two databases is clearly distinguishable. The information age might very well go down as one of the most influential movements of the last century. The term â€Å"revolution† refers to a drastic change. In what ways in this information age so drastically different? Is it all good? Without a doubt, the information age has literally been transformed throughout the last century. The challenge is no doubt to manage this clusters of information that is widely available, which is why the information age is not all good. Propriety software and open source applications are anything but similar. What are the pros and cons of buying Microsoft Office (proprietary) versus downloading and using Open Office (open) for free? The term â€Å"open source† refers to the piece of software’s source code. Open source code extends beyond the traditional methods of just handing ou t code. It means that there are guidelines in which software has to be written it. The software developed with innovations can tremendously benefit individuals on the internet. The clearest benefit of this is due to the fact that it is free. Rather than paying a hefty peace, most open source products can be tried at a risk free basis. In addition, most of these products are efficient for organization’s usage. They also eliminate the hassle of software licensing, which continues to be a controversial issue in this industry. Consequently, propriety software tends to be quite expensive as Microsoft Office can really take a hit on a person’s budget. However, these software are complete and do not contain flaws unlike the open source software. Propriety software

Business Economics Referred Coursework Assignment Essay

Business Economics Referred Coursework Assignment - Essay Example Middle East suffered a decline of wheat production of 7.4 million tons or about 19 percent because of the worst drought the country had experienced in 2008. (Commodity Intelligence Report, 15 December 2008) China and Iran, had each, reported worse effects of droughts to wheat crops. Drought in China as of October, 2010 had affected 7.73 million hectares of wheat plantation (China Daily). Iran estimated a decline of their 2008 production by 20% due to effects of drought (USDA Foreign Agricultural Service. 15 December 2008). A decline in production would mean a gap in supply and demand that raises price. The price of wheat is also affected by the weakening US dollar because this will mean a decline in the purchasing power of a dollar. The U.S. dollar is a world trading currency; meaning all prices of commodities are linked to its price, and devaluation would have a great impact to international trade. In anticipation of devaluation, all countries will immediately raise their prices. Co mmodities such as wheat, oil, coffee, etc. will now set their price records to protect their investments. Farmers know that the dollars they are receiving for the wheat is declining in purchasing power, so they have to adjust their prices in anticipation for the devaluation; that is why we have a higher price of wheat now. As an example, if the US dollar declines by 30%, and the farmer has $1 million in wheat, his million dollars will now be able to buy $700,000 worth of goods or services, so he lost $300,000 in purchasing power. 2. Identify the factors that determine the demand for goods and services in general? Consider how these factors affect the demand for wheat. In general, determinants of demand are income, tastes, prices of related goods and services, expectations and the number of buyers. We know that if we lower the price of a good without altering its quality or quantity, people will flock to you to buy as this the law of demand. We will illustrate the law of demand by ex ample in demand for wheat. The law of demand applies to a well defined good – the wheat. Then the second phase indicates that people must not only want to purchase the wheat but must be able to purchase the wheat in order to be counted as part of demand. But although willing, consumer is not able at the price of $111.00, so buyer thinks of something else to replace the need for wheat. The next step is to think of the price and quantity demanded; that is as the price rises, the quantity demanded falls, and as the price falls, the quantity demanded increases. 3. What are the major factors increasing the demand for wheat? [Make sure you use the concept of income elasticity of demand for wheat (Ardy, 2010, p. 5). The factors that increase demand for wheat are price, price of substitute goods; preferences, population and income. These factors are discussed in the following paragraphs. Price. As the price of wheat increases, assuming that all other factors remain equal, less people would demand for wheat. The demand slope is downward looking . As the price of wheat increases, people would naturally avoid consumption and look for substitute products that they would value more. The price of substitute goods. A substitute product is a good or service which may be bought instead of another when the price of the latter changes or if it becomes unavailable. For instance, the increase in wheat price will increase in the demand for corn,

Roles and Function Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Roles and Function Paper - Essay Example Planning for emergencies is also a management function. Organizing the health care services and staff is another important management function in health care setting. Leading the staff is another function of management where meeting need to be held with staff to give them instruction and direction. Controlling is the final function where the team of staff needs to be built and maintained. Controlling risky and emergency situation is also a function of management. Such functions are highly useful in managing me in my previous job. I have planned my working schedule well once I was working. I have planned how to meet the patient’s need and the goals of my employer. I was well prepared for uncertain situations. I was well organized in my work and I used to follow my work schedule and requirement properly. Also my co – ordination with staff and patients was good because I thought it made my profession efficient. Controlling my behavior, emotions and attitude was more of benefit for me while working. The health care function manager needs to perform many functions. The most important function of a health care manager is maintaining the smooth operation of the health care system of the organization. Like any other business, health care sector need good management to run it smoothly. Planning, directing, coordinating, supervising are all needed for an effective running of a health care service centre. In a diversifying health care sector, there may be employees from different backgrounds and co – iodinating and leading them is not easy. According to( Lavey,2007,pg.363-74) â€Å"The natural population growth, aging of the population and consumer revolution have all increased the demand for health services in public hospitals†. Specialized skills and knowledge is essential in diversified health care sector. These are some information analyzed from the class. This class is of

Public Finance in the Health Care System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Public Finance in the Health Care System - Essay Example As of July 2013, the census Bureau of the US gives an estimation that the total population of this state of Vermont stood at 626, 630 people (Abrahamsen, 2012). This represented an increase of 0.14%, when compared to the census of 2010. The state of Vermont has an increase in the aging population, and on this basis, there is an increase in the provision of aging health care services within the economy of the state (Abrahamsen, 2012). The Allen Fletcher Health is considered as the biggest private health provider in the state of Vermont, with an employee base of around 7,100 people. As of the year 2010, the entire bill that patients in the hospital paid amounted to 3.76 billion dollars. Currently, 92,000 people have enrolled for the Medicare program. It is important to denote that as of 2011, Medicare was able to spend 740 million dollars on the health care of the state (Deary and sBrown, 2001). The financial capacity of the state is very stable, and it has been able to achieve a balanced budget, since the year 1991 (Deary and sBrown, 2001). The state has an enterprise fund, for purposes of sponsoring activities that would reduce social and economic problems like unemployment, drug abuse, etc. For purposes of understanding the economic strength of Vermont, the state has an individual’s per capita income of 38,306 dollars. On the other hand, the general size of the public sector is 24.3%, when compared to that of the private sector which amounts to 36.6% (Abrahamsen, 2012). Based on these grounds, the private sector is wider than the public sector. The tax system of this state is also favorable, and one of the unleast fair tax structure in the United States. This is because the tax structure gives income tax credit to low waged workers. This is for purposes of ensuring that there is an equitable distribution of resources. One of the health care reforms initiated

Complex Computer Systems Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Complex Computer Systems - Research Paper Example Most computer systems that are considered successful demonstrate a positive direct effect on the perceived eases of use. Therefore, some computer systems are never fully accepted by their intended users, and are underutilized (Hasan, 2007). Also, very few IT systems have been categorized as truly successful. There are numerous factors and processes that make IT projects complex (The British ComputerSociety, 2006). Understanding and proper management of these projects is important to comprehend why such projects fail. It also helps to understand how proper management of complexity can increase success for computer systems. Technology is an important source of complexity of computer systems, but the key source of complexity is the scope of the project, as set by management (The British Computer Society, 2006). Among the success or failure factors are social, economic and technical factors. These factors influence whether the complex computer system project succeeds or fails in its obje ctives. There must be technical and social strategies designed to detect and manage external and internal influences to ensure success of any complex computer system. ... esign and production of prepayment gas meters, introduced to the United Kingdom energy market to make work easier for energy suppliers and domestic clients (The British Computer Society, 2006). Central service installed on server database and application server. These have interfaces and tier supplier infrastructure The Smart Meter System has several components. First, the Smart Meter’s Central System has a web interface and Oracle database (TheBritishComputerSociety, 2006). The web interface and Oracle database have been built on a Distributed Computing Infrastructure. Integration of these components with the central system allows for online payment. The payment is identified by the payment agent. A Short Message (SMS) is processed by the SMS provider system. Also, every Smart Meter System has an Apache web server, which is used to deliver user interfaces. The Oracle 9i database component of the system is was used to produce the database, while the Tomcat servlet container is driven by Java and the STRUTS framework (TheBritishComputerSociety, 2006). This uses Java Server Pages and cascading style sheets for presentation layer. The Prepayment Metering Infrastructure Provider application allows suppliers to interact with their meters in real time (The British Computer Society, 2006). The Smart Meter System is a complex computer system because it allows domestic clients and domestic energy provision customers to make prepayments for their gas, using their mobile phones. The Smart Meter System is also complex because it is can be used by both vendors and end user clients. Therefore, the system accepts top ups in terms of monetary values by customers via their mobile phones (The British Computer Society, 2006). Consequently, plans were put in place to sell the Smart

Impressionism Art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Impressionism Art - Essay Example Through the 1863-oil-on-canvas painting of â€Å"Olympia†, former realist Edouard Manet occurs to convey a personal style of exhibiting his subject of nudity which is one essential characteristic of Realism. Besides the artist’s sensual treatment of â€Å"Olympia†, the art piece may be identified as well to possess an Impressionist trait in the manner the female figure is placed at the center, seemingly far from the ideal Greek-oriented setup. For this, Manet’s work had suffered excruciating degree of criticisms from the society as it chiefly disobeyed the conventional principles of the Renaissance art. One notable detail in â€Å"Olympia† is the tailoring of the nude woman’s eyes. They evoke confidence of all that she was in a seemingly pure marble-looking complexion stroked in conflict with her portrayal of a prostitute. A black maidservant provides additional evidence by handing over a bouquet of flowers as from an admirer though the look in her eyes was traced after an accomplished harlot who would not pay immediate attention nor find meaning in such a present. On the other hand, Edgar Degas is widely acclaimed for the works â€Å"The Dance Foyer at the Opera on the Rue Le Peletier† (1872) and â€Å"The Ballet Rehearsal on Stage.† (Edgar Degas – The Complete Works). Both of these paintings depict a common theme of â€Å"dance† which Degas may be observed to have fondly dealt with in most of his accomplishments. The two crafts, likewise, project an Impressionist concept based on the significance of interior.

The USAs economic recovery Essay Example for Free

The USAs economic recovery Essay The achievement of the new deal is a myth. The USAs economic recovery came with the outbreak of the Second World War. How far do these sources support this view? It is arguable how far the sources help to answer the question as some answer some parts and other sources answer other parts. The New Deal could be called a myth as far as helping the economic recovery is concerned. Evidence of this is given in source I as the information shows that the economy recovers the most when the USA enters the war the economy goes back, near enough, to what it was before the war and one year into the war the economy is actually better than it was before the crash and depression! The New deal also never helped to solve the underlying American economic problems. Sources A, C, G, are the ones which mostly oppose the New Deal. Confidence remained low through the 1930s when the New Deal was in operation; Americans spent and invested about 75 per-cent of what they had done before 1929. Unemployment was still at a high even after the Second New Deal It wasnt until Roosevelt cut the New Deal Budget in 1937 that the country went back into recession. The New Deals achievements are evident in sources D, E and F as these sources give evidence that America had been improving since the New Deal was created, and that the public were mostly happy that the New Deal had achieved what its main goals were. When USA entered the Second World War, the New Deal carried on improving Americas economy. Analysing the data in source I, closely evidence can also be found that the New Deal did help America overall. The New Deal helped to get production lines back on track, and the statistics also improved between 1935 and 1938 slightly. The fact that the economy did recover and improved shows that the statement is true to some extent. When Roosevelt cut the budget in 1937, it proved that the country may have been relying to much on the New Deal. This leads me to a theory that the country perhaps became slightly too dependent on the New Deal and in fact that the New Deal was not a myth at all in the long run. The war may not have helped as much as the general public and American figureheads made out. Economy had started improving before the world war anyway, at a steady rate. This therefore means that it wasnt purely because of the world war that the economy recovered, as it was already showing signs of improvement before America entered the war. Unemployment was falling greatly until Roosevelt cut the budget on the New Deal, after which it started to rise again slightly. Therefore, this does give proof that the New Deal did help the economy recover again because a year after the budget was cut, unemployment figures went up again. The war did help a great deal on improving the economy a great deal and this is shown mostly in source I as when America enters the war the unemployment decreased a lot, this is probably because of all the job openings in the army due to lack of soldiers and the fact that they had to supply armaments and food supplies to the rest of Europe and themselves as well. Looking at the sources that are generally against the New Deal and Roosevelt they are not very reliable, and are potentially very biased. This is because the sources are no more than propaganda sources, and only portray what the Republicans want the public people to believe. This is because the Republicans were mostly old fashioned and believed in the old fashioned ways. From analysing the sources closely and looking at the statistics given in the sources from World War Two and the New Deal it is possible to see that they show overall that both helped the recovery of the USA very much. The New Deal cut unemployment drastically, and unemployment was still going down before the war even started. When America entered the world war, it cut unemployment from 19 per-cent to 4.7per-cent. This almost wiped out unemployment completely, and created thousands of jobs. I conclude that it is for the above reasons that I believe that the statement, The achievement of the new deal is a myth. The USAs economic recovery came with the outbreak of the Second World War, is not very true and is bias. The sources are useful in helping interpret this, especially source I although some sources are not as helpful as others. If I had to place their support on the view in a scale of one to ten I would place it around 4 because they do not actually support the view in general, although they do help to put forward the opposite argument. The figures and data given before the America entered war give evidence which proves that the New Deal did reduce the unemployment rate, and entering the war just sped up the process and created many more jobs therefore chopping unemployment. Although the war may have helped to speed up the economic recovery, it is unfair to state that the New Deal was entirely a myth as it clearly did help America and the unemployment problems created within the country as a whole.

The Meaning Of Freedom Of Expression

The Meaning Of Freedom Of Expression Nations across the world have different constitutions and laws that govern the countries, apparently some may similar depending on the country, and some are also different. However, the Freedom of Speech and Expression is common in most of them, especially in countries that are not under dictatorship ruling. The freedom of speech has to do with freeing people to express their thoughts however they want without any type of interference. This is a major issue across the world, with no exception of Malawi. Furthermore, the issue of expression has to do with the media because these are the watchdogs of the society and they link the people with the government. The press has to do the researching for the nation, it has to be transparent and accountable in its news reporting, and so the media and press do meet up with lots of problems. The freedom of speech is defined as the freedom to speak without censorship and limitation or both. It goes on to give political rights that enable one to share ideas. Basically, the Freedom of Expression comprises of things that enable one to impart, receive and seek information without looking at the strategy used. It is said to help in democracy to work and also public participation in decision making because citizens cannot freely express their obligations if they do not have the freedom empowered to them. An article in the universal declaration read that, the free communication of ideas and opinion should be considered as mans greatest right.(David 2012) In as much as the people are given absolute rights to speak and publish whatever they like, it is also said that the law is likely to take its stand whenever any of the rights is abused. This means that the freedom of expression is something that is very important and has to be thought of on a huge note. Even the article 5 of the universal declaration does endorse this and adds on to say boundaries are not necessary as far as the freedom of expression is concerned. (David 2012) Background of the Freedom of Expression The freedom of speech dates back in the 5th and 6th BC in the Roman Republic whereby the main rights were freedom of religion and freedom of speech, also, it was talked of by Rashidun and Al-Hashimi, Islams, in their letter to one of the religious opponents. As years passed, various people fought for it in so many ways until the first state proclaiming freedom of speech was issued on December 4, 1770 in Denmark- Norway. People like John Stuart Mill pointed out that without freedom there can hardly be achievement in in things like politics and other things related, which according to him needed free expression. However, the Freedom Forum Organization said that it is important to recognize the limits of the freedom of speech as it may conflict with other things. (David 2012) The Malawi government has also adopted the concept of freedom of speech ever since it got its independence from Britain and had the democratic government. Democracy deals a lot with the voice of the people; apparently that is why it goes hand in hand with the freedom of speech and expression. The Malawi Constitution guarantees the freedom of expression and views it as a basic right. It strives for the public to enjoy their right to be informed through unrestricted access to information. Aims and Objectives To find out whether there has been an advancement of the freedom of expression or whether it has/is deteriorating. Since its establishment, things have been happening that it has not been easy to tell whether or not this freedom is really working out there or maybe it is long gone. To examine the flow of the rights in the government and reflect how the citizens are being handled with reference to the freedom of expression. How exactly is the government implementing its policies on the people, is it being over authoritative or perhaps it is imposing issues on the people without considering their rights, or perhaps it is doing just fine. To evaluate the extent of the freedom the press has here in Malawi How far does the Malawian government take its freedom of expression, to what extent does it authorize it. To find out the media has they truly are doing their jobs freely without hindrances Are the media houses truly free to report anything that they are obligated to report to the nation of Malawi? Or perhaps they have setbacks? To estimate how the freedom of speech is being used by the media and press on the people. To see through how the freedom of expression and speech have been flowing over the years. To understand what exactly it means to have that kind of freedom, and also learn its limitations. Problem Statement The media is a watchdog for the society, and its job is to keep the nation informed, entertained and educated, it has to do anything in its power to be there for the society and look out for it. However, in Malawi, the freedom of expression, or press freedom is said to have been adopted many years ago, apparently as early as when independence from the British government was granted. Now, the problem is that there seems to be a hindrance on this freedom of expression and the way the media is doing its job. Its either it is not being granted to them in full or there are lots of misconceptions about it. The media is suffering and there is no accuracy in its job, this only means that the nation is not getting accurate information, and is therefore not being treated fairly. Hypothesis Upon conducting a research on the evaluation of the freedom of speech and expression, the possible outcomes are anticipated. The government sometimes tends to take charge of the media practitioners, thereby limiting their freedom of speech and expression. When the people, media and press properly exercise their freedom of expression, they tend to come out with positive results because that is a job well done for them to serve the nation in a proper manner without limitations. Some media practitioners misuse their rights and cross their limits all in the name of having freedom of expression, as a result other peoples rights are violated. LITERATURE REVIEW So much has been said or research on the topic of freedom of expression and the media, organizations, and even individuals have quite a bit to say about it, others give some emphasis on it as in its importance in the media and others even give an overview of how it is flowing in the country and also how or what the media thinks about it. Freedom of speech has to do with people being able to give their views on things of their interest, and the freedom of the press gives the rights to the print media in order for them to freely express what they truly believe. However, having the freedom of speech does not mean having the right to hurt or discomfort other people. The freedom that is involved here has to do with how much creativity one can bring for the aim of improving the societies that we live in. this freedom is there to empower people to analyse their government and achieve what is best for both of them, in other words it has to do with criticizing the leadership both positively and negatively and end up having what is best for the nation. To live without freedom is binding but with freedom comes responsibility in reporting. (Orwell 2009) Freedom of expression is very important if the people are to participate in decision making issues, especially for countries that are said to be democratic like Malawi itself. People can not be able to participate freely in what is going on around them if they do not have the freedom, for instance things like choosing of leaders to guide them. Therefore, this issue is not only necessary for personal gain but also it helps in maintain the democratic spirit that the country has. This freedom clearly gives the society to voice out their thoughts on issues freely without any disturbances. Furthermore, this is something that needs full support because of its position in democracy and public participation in political issues and also the media. On a journalistic point of view, the freedom to give out knowledge can come under different attacks. Pressure on the journalists poses a very big threat. An article released by MISA said that Freedom of expression is a basic right, which is expressly guaranteed in the Malawi Constitution. Therefore, this programme seeks to campaign for the public to enjoy their right to be informed through unrestricted access to information. This one continued to say that MISA is campaigning for the Access to Information (ATI) bill. Section 37 of the Malawi Constitution provides for access to information. The framers of the Constitution however made this right to access information subject to an act of parliament but did not set a timeframe for the enactment of the law on access to information. On the other hand, some information clearly states that 13 years since the adoption of the Constitution, there is still no enabling act for access to information. Apparently, according to Malawi Institute of Journalism, a minister once said that the case of the July 20 demonstrations that were held in the country, he observed that some jouranalists who were cov ering the demonstrations were beaten up by the police and some radio stations put off air by the Malawi communications Regulatory Authority MACRA (Malawi Institute of Journalism 2012) Still on the concept of the freedom of expression being violated, the government has been named as the biggest violator of the freedom of expression in Malawi followed by the general public, and this is according to the Media council of Malawi (MCM). Mr Anderson Fumulani of the MCM said that a survey revealed government as a major violator of press freedom. (Ganthu 2002). Capitol Radio managing director Al Osman warned that with repressive media laws been introduced, freedom of expression is under threat. He continued to say that the media just provide a platform and that freedom of expression is not exclusive to the media. On the contrary, it was argued that Malawi is enjoying the freedom of expression now than before, according to Edson Mwamvani, southern regional information officer, the freedom of expression has improved in the last ten years, however, the freedom of expression has to look at the responsibilities as well (Gondwe, 2011) In addition to the violation, The Malawi Chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) noted with disappointment that there is lack of respect for media freedom and in the country. The media in Malawi is continuously being violated not only by the government, but also some individuals of the public. Apparently, the latest threats came from the late State President Dr. Bingu wa Mutharika, who warned that he was going to stop the work of some media houses and also arrest some individual journalists that continued to report negatively about his administration. He further pointed out that journalists in the country are being careless and false in their work of reporting. Furthermore, MISA Malawi also said it was aware of threats on some journalists as well as media houses from people who claim to be misrepresented in some stories published by journalists. MISA said that such things do interrupt work of the media as watchdogs of the country because it gives them fear and they d ont work to the best of their abilities. It also continued to say it feels that it is very easy in such circumstances to think that the government is actually thinking of taking little steps to ending the freedom of expression in the country. The media in the country really is trying so hard to do its job right , however, it is meeting many problems regarding its freedom of expression. MISA said it emphasizes that it does not condone irresponsible reporting, it said it is urging journalists to be truthful in every single thing they tackle. Irresponsible reporting should not even be heard of here in Malawi and around the world. The media should therefore be allowed to represent the people and take care of them accordingly. The organisation said it expects the government authorities and other people who happen to have problems against journalists and media people to give their issues to the correct bodies that are put in place for this. Freedom of expression and the right to report is given in the constitution of the country and they are both said to be protected by the head of state. The president must not be the first person to rob the media of its freedom, its simply not acceptable. The organisation was actually referring to the recent government that it should promote media freedom in Malawi. Not only that but also appealing to the media practitioners to support the people and keep alert. MISA finished by encouraging the government to continue to support media outlets. (Augustine 2010) The issue of rights being violated in Malawi, with no exception of the freedom of speech was addressed by the United Nations whereby showed that it is only a matter of time before the United Nations turns on the sanction button against the current government led by Mrs. Joyce Banda. According to the UN this is mainly following Malawi Government failure to uphold Human Rights and other laws of natural justice as enriched in the UNs Convention on Human Rights. Section 19 of the Convention gives everyone the ability to express opinions without any hindrances. About the media, the convention adds that everyone has the right to perform and work effectively with no boundaries when it comes to freedom. In 2011, the UN Human Rights Committee adopted what is known as the General Comment No 34, which is guaranteed by Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This comment strengthens the protection of the international law on freedom of expression including the Cou rts of Law in its member states of which Malawi is inclusive. According to Article 19, a well-known international organisation which is committed to defend the right to freedom of expression and fights against repression of the media, both the UN convention and its general comment define freedom of opinion and freedom of expression as indispensable conditions for the full development of a person. The organisation adds that freedom of opinion and expression are essential for any democratic society considering that it provides the basics of what democracy is all about. The freedom of expression provides for the exchange and development of opinions. With Malawi being a democratic country as it is called, others may question as to whether it really is a democratic state or an authoritarian which demands people to bow to the opinion of the government. the current government in Malawi has been criticised by various organisations such as Council of NGOs in Malawi for violating some sections of the constitution with no exception to the freedom of expression. According to Article 19, freedom of expression is a necessary condition for the realisation of the principles of transparency and accountability that are, in turn essential for the promotion and protection of human rights. In countries where democracy is embraced, a free uncensored and unhindered press or other media is considered as essential to ensure freedom of opinion and expression and the enjoyment of other covenant rights. Ironically, the Malawi constitution particularly Section 35 and 36, aff irms that every person shall have the right to express oneself, not onlyt in Malawi, but also in foreign countries (Nkhoma 2012) On the same issue, freedom of expression has been said to be something that is put in place in the Malawi Constitution, but it seems like lately it is sliding back to the time when it was not available. It is unfortunate that it does not matter which party is ruling or whatsoever, but the fact of the matter remains that the freedom of expression is currently not on a very good positions. Apparently after many press conferences, the late president Dr. Wa Mutharika after arguing with the media ended up shaking hands with journalists and continuosly said aluta continua, meaning let the struggle come to an end, because Malawi is a democratic country (Munthali 2010) On the area of print media, the importance of freedom of speech is important in the newspaper or print industry is that the print media does a big job of keeping the people informed. The people need to know what their leaders are doing and this is almost impossible to happen effectively is the publishers are controlled by the government. Some information has been given regarding the freedom of speech with respect to the internet in Malawi, and this is including media areas like television, radio or written press. These things are being limited by certain principles of public order, and this is what has been proposed against in the bill (Muwamba 2012) Freedom of press released an article where it talked of how the freedom of the press is constitutionally guaranteed in Malawi even though they are restricted in practice. On April 13, 2007, the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) banned all private media outlets from broadcasting political rallies live without prior permission from the MACRA. This move intended to avoid messages that would be against the government. The government does not exercise over censorship, but freedom of expression in Malawi is threatened in many ways. One journalist was reportedly attacked in 2007. Dickson Kashoti, a reporter for the private Daily Times was physically attacked by Joseph Njobvuyalema, a member of parliamrnt over an article that had been critical of him. (freedom house 2008) The Freedom of information Act in 1966 gives the right to know, and also views the press as a very crucial an part of the freedom of expression, and a bridge between people and social institutions. So the press is the mediator of relationships with institutions of society family, religion, economy and many more. In addition to that, article 19 of the universal declaration of human rights adopted in 1948 continues to give the public its freedom to feely express itself and also get first hand information. However, some situations and writings have showed that the freedom of expression is not entirely valid in Malawi since it was written by George Ombuluka that the United States official also commented on the Malawian freedom of expression when he extended his speech to the late president Dr. Bingu Wa Mutharika to say that he should respect his citizens right to freedom of expression. Anthony Livuza said that the government of Malawi promised to encourage the freedom of the media and this was after it met with international delegations on the issue of press freedom, the government resolved to being open and also fully supporting the media in its work . According Emmanuel, Freedom of expression in Malawi regarding television, radio, or print is set to be limited by certain principles of public order; this is said by the new bill. (Muwamba 2011)

Ernest Hemingways Code Hero in For Who The Bell Tolls and A Farewell T

Ernest Hemingway's Code Hero in For Who The Bell Tolls and A Farewell To Arms They were American innocents negotiating the river of life wherever it took them: to Italy, to Spain, to Africa, to the Caribbean, wounded men laughing through the pain, sometimes risking their skins but never sacrificing their honor. It was a river into which countless writers would thrust their paddles.(Papa) Ernest Hemingway is arguably one of the most important writers in American history. Though this is disputed, Hemingway has undoubtedly had a major influence on contemporary American literature. One aspect of Hemingway's famous writing that shines in almost all of his works is the hero. Hemingway created the famous Hemingway code by which all of his heroes, often called code heroes, lived. One critic asserted that, 'Hemingway invented more than a style he invented the Hemingway hero.' (Papa) Hemingway attempted to live by this code but did not enjoy the success of his fictional characters. In fact, critic Joseph DeFalco states, 'The type of hero that can accomplish such a feat [living up to the Hemingway code] is rare in any area of life.' (195) The code hero was not rare, however, in Hemingway writing. Robert Jordan in For Whom The Bell Tolls and Frederic Henry in A Farewell To Arms are perfect examples of the Hemingway code hero. The Hemingway code is, ?a grace under pressure. It is made of the controls of honor and courage which in a life of tension and pain make a man a man and distinguish him from the people who follow random impulses.? (Young 63) Additionally, this ?grace under pressure? can be expressed as, ?an ability to be in difficult situations without succumbing to either panic, enthusiasm, or indifference, is the hall... ...back Fiction, 1929. Hemingway, Ernest. For Whom The Bell Tolls. New York: Scribner Paperback Fiction, 1940. Molesworth, Charles. ?Hemingway?s Code: The Spanish Civil War and World Power.? Blowing the Bridge. Ed. Rena Sanderson. Westport: Greenwood Press, 1992. 83-97. Norton, Charles A. ?The Alcoholic Content of A Farewell to Arms.? Hemingway in Italy and Other Essays. Ed. Robert W. Lewis. New York: Praeger Publishing, 1990. 309-313. ?Papa and All His Children,? U.S. News & World Report: 1 Jun. 1998, Vol. 124: Issue 2. Mas Full Text Premiere. Rehberger, Dean. ?I Don?t Know Buffalo Bill?s; or Hemingway and the Rhetoric of the Western .? Blowing the Bridge. Ed. Rena Sanderson. Westport: Greenwood Press, 1992. 159-184. Young, Phillip. Ernest Hemingway: A Reconsideration. University Park: The Pennsylvania State University Press, 1966.

Garden for the Blind :: Architecture Design Essays

Garden for the Blind In Sensory Design by Joy Malnar and Frank Vodvarka, a great garden is said to unfold like a narrative, a journey or a piece of music. My hope is that the Garden for the Blind located on the land south of Hume Hall will be such a garden. I think the Garden should be entered through the parking lot, since the ground there is the most level. I think there should be a wooden path with railings on both sides until the garden reaches it’s full width. The path should then change to asphalt or rock, but the wood railing should be continued for a few more feet. There could be an archway over the wooden path, wrapped in Jasmine vines, so that the entrance to the garden can be marked by such a smell. The unrailed but broad path should then travel through the garden. Although unrailed, a system, such as raised edges, should be set in place on both sides of the path, to indicate where it ends and the grass begins. The path will eventually lead to a substantially large fountain in the middle of the Garden. One will know when he or she is in the heart of the Garden when one hears the water, or even feels the mist on his or her face. The fountain should have a ledge wide enough to sit on, with railings to keep one from falling in. The fountain will be in the middle of a paved circle. The circle will have railings around it, except for when it is met up by one of the three main paths: the path from the entrance, the path to the gazebo, and the path to the exit. On the right side of the fountain (when facing it from the entrance) there will be a Gazebo. There will be steps leading up to the Gazebo, since it will be situated on the steep side of the hill. The Gazebo can be a center for

Naval Technology: 1450-1750 Essay -- effective naval vessels, ships

　　The Early Modern Era saw great change in the field of naval technology. Exploration and the desire to expand trade fueled the development of new, more effective naval vessels. These vessels, in turn, contributed to the growth of worldwide trade and interconnection that marked the period. 　　In 1453 the Ottomans took control of Constantinople, and effectively cut off direct European trade to East Asia. Because of this, in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, exploration in search of alternative routes became a key focus of Western European nations. 　　The development of such vessels as the caravel and carrack allowed for the great expansion of this trade-driven exploration. The caravel, a small, lateen-rigged ship of 12-18 meters (Russel, 229) , was developed as a fishing boat in the early 13th century, in Portugal. Its maneuverability and speed made it possible for explorers, merchants, and fisherman alike, to go further, faster. The Caravel would become the backbone of early Spanish and Portuguese exploration, and the model on which many other vessels were based. Columbus used two caravels in his ‘discovery’ of the new world: the Nià ±a and the Pinta; and Vasco Da Gama used the caravel Berrio in his expedition around Africa. 　　 　　The carrack, or nao, was a large, multi-decked ship that used a combination of square and lateen sails to ensure a balance of power and maneuverability. The carrack became the premiere ship of early exploration and trade as it was able to carry up to 1,000 tons(Johnston) and was capable of withstanding the lengthiest voyages. The premiere ships of the voyages of Columbus, De Gama, and Magellan were all carracks. 　　These early vessels allowed for the mass exploration and colonization, of the American... ...Modelling: Rigging Patterns - The Carracks and Caravels." Jan's Sites: Navigation. N.p., 8 Mar. 2012. Web. 24 Nov. 2013. Glete, Jan. Warfare at Sea, 1500-1650: Maritime Conflicts and the Transformation of Europe. London: Routledge, 2000. 150-60. Print. Konstam, Angus. The History of Shipwrecks. New York: Lyons, 1999. Print. Rodrigues, Francisco. Roteiro De Malaca. 16th Century. Engraving. N.p. Russel, Peter E. "The Caravels of Christ." Prince Henry 'The Navigator': A Life. New Haven, Connecticut: Yale UP, 2001. 225-38. Print. Schwarz, George R. "History of the Caravel." Caravel. Texas A&M University, n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2013. Vroom, Hendrik Cornelisz. Hollandse Schepen Overzeilen Spaanse Galeien Onder De Engelse Kust. 1617. Oil on canvas. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Web. Johnston, Ruth A. "medieval ships and boats." World History: Ancient and Medieval Eras. ABC-CLIO, 2013.

Confirmation Bias Essay

Confirmation bias can influence perceptions is about not only what has already occurred but also our predictions of what yet occur. Confirmation bias can generate their own confirmations, some of these perceptions and predictions (Myers, 2012, p. 72). The phenomenon of confirmation bias starts with overconfidence, which can originate in a lack of knowledge regarding a topic or task. It I was to ask someone that is overconfident if they were good at some task or operation in which they no experience or expertise, they would answer with a resounding affirmation that they would be good at any task they do. However, this overconfidence may only be born of an ignorance of what the task or operation really requires to be performed successfully. Sometimes it is our memories that lead us astray into a false confidence. Remembering times when we were â€Å"almost† right perhaps (Myers, 2012, p. 75). We can often remember what we want to remember rather than what actually occurred. We often hear what we wanted to hear. Sometimes we even tell ourselves there were reasons for some of our less conscious actions. Intellectual deceit is a phenomenon that fortifies and cultivates the occurrence of confirmation bias. Myers (2012) states â€Å"The â€Å"intellectual conceit† evident in judgments of past knowledge (â€Å"I knew it all along†) extends to estimates of current knowledge and predictions of future behavior. We know we’ve messed up in the past. But we have more positive expectations for our future performance in meeting deadlines, managing relationships, following an exercise routine, and so forth (p. 72). Another statement by Myers (2012) is â€Å"The construction of positive memories brightens our recollections† (p. 77). I believe this tendency helps us not only to develop enough intellectual deceit to become overconfident which leads to bias, but also this inherent psychosocial, psychological trait or habit causes us to recall our previous thoughts, intentions, and actions in  such a way that sheds favorable enough light on them for us to then perceive if not generate some sort of confirmation of our bias.

Personal Adult Life

The purpose of this paper is to explore my personal journey through adult development, while incorporating Erikson’s 8 stages of developmental theory. It will take you on a brief introduction through my childhood up to my young adulthood. Touching on some of the trials and tribulations I have encountered and how they have contributed to my resilience’s. How my life’s journey has caused influenced my desire to obtain a career in criminal psychology Concluding, with the goals that success in grad school will help me attain in the remainder of my life.Life is filled with many twist and turns, up and downs. It is up to us the individual what we learn along life’s journey. People will come into our lives and help guide and changes us as well as the lessons, trials, and tribulations we all encounter. Although we have no control over fate, we do have power over our â€Å"driving skills†, and could thus widen or narrow our chance for a smooth, prosperous jo urney. It is beneficial to remember that we are not alone and that we all take this journey into adulthood.Most prominently, no matter how harsh the terrain of the road becomes, we just have to remember that we will pull through and be transformed for the better because of it. I believe that it is my optimistic philosophy that I’ve adopted which has been much solace to me in my own journey in becoming the level headed young woman I am today. It was not at all easy. However, I have been blessed with a great support system and environment. My childhood I learned a lot and matured faster than most of my friends. During what Erikson called the play age 3 to 5 my mom gave birth to my little brother. I wasn’t too happy about this.It is during this Learning to initiative vs Guilt this is where Erikson believed the healthy developing child learns to imagine, through all sorts of fantasy, cooperate with others, to lead as well as follow, fearful and continues to depend on adult s and is still restricted both in development of play skills and in imagination. (Erikson, E. H. , 1963). At first I wanted to try and hid my brother in the closet. My mom said I had a pretty good imagination and a ball of a good time with myself but I also made friends very easy. One of the hardest times in my life occurred two weeks before my 11th birthday.My father was killed. This is during Erikson’s stage known as School age, where he believed it is during this time where children learn to master the more formal skills of life. Such as relating to peers according to rules, progressing from free play to play that may be elaborating structured by rules and may demand formal teamwork, mastering social studies, reading and the necessity of homework. Erikson stated that the child who trust because of his successive and successful resolutions of earlier psychosocial crises is trusting and autonomous, and full of initiative will learn easily enough to be industrious (Erikson, E . H. , 1963). I had a hard time with this because my friends had both of their parents around and I couldn’t understand why I had my father taken away from me.The following year wasn’t that much easier for me. 2 days before my 12th birthday my mom was involved in a serious car wreck and was almost killed During Identity versus role years age 12 to 18 I went through a great deal of things. This stage Erikson believes that a successful early adolescence aquires self certainty as opposed to self consciousness and self doubt. During this time clear sexual identity is established and develops a set of ideals (Erikson, E. H. , 1963). You could say that this is where I really learned that life will keep throwing things at you and you have to learn how to roll with the punches. Starting off with my mom’s wreck at 12, at the age of 16 I was in an abusive relationship and was raped by my boyfriend at the time. My abuse, for example, had brought me much self-loathing, but then I realized I was able to get out and get out alive and this is where I really made the choice where I refused to be bullied in to silence and allow others to make me a victim. I felt each time I fell; I was obliged to obtain strength in order to rise.Thus each time I rose, I was a little stronger than before. During young adulthood 18 to 35 Intimacy & Solidarity verses Isolation I have done my most growing of finding out who I am. Erikson believes that during this stage The successful young adult, for the first time , can experience true intimacy- the sort of intimacy that makes possible good marriage or a genuine and enduring friendship. (Erikson, E. H. , 1963). I dated a guy who is actually my best friend now for seven years, we moved to Vegas and then realized things were not going to work.I wanted to focus more on school and eventually the family life but I gained a great friendship out of the seven years together. I met some of my best girl friends during these years. Vall iant added a stage which he calls Career Consolidation this is where he insists that adult education should help adults live better. He felt that educators help guide learners in better life style directions through education and counseling (Vaillant,G.. & Mukamal, K 2001). I personally have to say that I agree and have always been taught early on that an education is something that no one can take away from you.While during this stage of my life I have had some serious health problems. I have had cyst removed from my left breast which they later found out were in the beginning stages of cancer. I have had to have my gallbladder removed and found out that I have Celica disease. The one positive trait that had proved to be highly efficient in boosting me out of these pits is ambition. I know that too much of it could corrupt a person, but so far it had only empowered my spirit with much-needed optimism.My greatest ambitions is to become a criminal profiler or help start a victim†™s voice program and help counsel abused women; therefore every hardship and pain to me befits an inspiration a way for me to be able to connect with others and their hardships. It has been my optimistic perception of things, that have succored me through my many phases of emotional turmoil. Although this journey had been difficult and even toilsome at times, I pulled through. One of the merits that I have acquired from my past experiences is strength.Strength in mind and spirit is like steel, and the most sublime of its quality can only be heated through suffering each . Another lesson that I’ve learned through my journey up to this point is to appreciate all that life has to offer. Life is short, and my road could abruptly come to a halt at anytime. Thus it is prominent to savor each and every moment of it by focusing on the positive things. My struggles and desolation have procured me to value what I have in order to overcome depression. My family, friends, and other for tunate events in my life have been lights in times of darkness, eminding me that the world is not completely forlorn and bleak. Optimism, along with strength, is all that I need to carry on. And thus I go forth on this journey with the memories of all the people and places I’ve left behind. I know that as long as I possess a goal, I will never be lost. My goal is to become a successful graduate student obtaining my Masters in Psychology with specialization in Criminal Justice and Victomology. I hope to maybe one day work with the FBI and possible become a Criminal Profiler. It had been a most arduous but rewarding journey. My friends and family, especially my father, had made this journey much easier†¦All of these allies and resources have presented me with guidance in the right course. The bumps and craters that I’ve met along my journey held a large role in constituting the person that I am now. I have fallen so many times into the seemingly abyss of despair and struggled against the mirror for just a speck of self-esteem, but I have survived. I understand that there will be greater obstacles and barriers in the future, but I personally believe that pain is a thing to be prized. Someone who does not know pain would not appreciate joy, nor would he obtain the strength to make his journey worthwhile

Loving Our Family Essay

As a Catholic, I wish to preserve the values that were instilled in me-those that define a person. It is said that everything starts from our family. They are the one that hour as all the influence that change and lead us where are we now. Our mothers served as our first teachers. Our fathers seemed to be our first ball of our first basketball match. Our brothers and sisters portrayed the role of our first best buddies. Indeed, they are what who made us. We owe them what we are today especially our parents. So first thing, I want to instill in the minds of the next generation, the values of a Filipino family. I thank the Lord for giving me a family that is bounded with love and harmony. I wish every child would honor their mothers and fathers as what Jesus had commanded us. I wish we as a children, would not just look into our parents as mere providers of our needs and pleasures. They are more than a provider of the material entity. They give immaterial things, immortal love and endless sacrifice. How great is our sin if we don’t even at least to make a coffee for them to every morning or offer a meal whenever they are already exhausted or tired with the entire day of work. We only have one chance of having a family, once they are gone, they are gone forever. So let us preserve the closeness of our family or the close family ties we had learned in our country’s culture. Let the next generation enjoy the unconditional love of God through our family.

Logistic Planning

Logistic planning and management largely focus on lowering the cost associated with producing and distributing products under a variety of constraints. Logistics can be meant in different aspects of terms. In the perspective of Customer, the definition is getting the right product, to the right customer, in the right quantity, in the right condition, at the right place, at the right time and at the right cost. In the perspective of utility and value, the definition is providing the time and place utility/value of materials and products in support of organization objectives.In the perspective of Functional Management, the definition is provide materials requirements determination , purchasing , transportation , inventory management, warehousing, materials handling, industrial packaging, facility location analysis, distribution, return goods handling, information management, customers service, and all other activities concerned with supporting the internal customer (manufacturing) with materials and the external customer(retail stores) with product.Citied from Stephen H. Russell, â€Å"A General Theory of Logistic Practices. Logistic is the support of producing products in order for marketers to market the product. An example describing my statement will be that in order to sell laptops to customers, the logistics management would gather the products and send to retailers for sale. This operation is an important task. † Logistic is the support of producing products in order for marketers to market the product. An example describing my statement will be that in order to sell laptops to customers, the logistics management would gather the products and send to retailers for sale. This operation is an important task.

Do the requirements of IFRS 8 Operating Segments enhance the quality Assignment

Do the requirements of IFRS 8 Operating Segments enhance the quality of information available to financial statement users - Assignment Example IFRS 8 states that an operating segment is a component of any organization that engages in business activities that earn revenue. The entity’s operating results must also be regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker. In addition, the entity must have discrete financial information. In business, an operating segment is that an independent unit that produces discriminated revenue thus necessitating preparation of separate books of transactions. It helps companies to track their performance in different areas of the market (IFRS 8 website). The paper discusses the reasons why the provision of segmental information is useful, current requirements of IFRS 8 and how they differ with other past and present accounting standards. It also presents the evidence as to whether the current requirements increase the quality of information available to users of financial statements. A good number of market participants and stakeholders are usually interested in the disclosures of information regarding the operating segments of the company. The provision of segmental information ensures that users of financial statements access information relating to the firm’s past performance, their risks and returns so as to be able to make informed decision or judgment about the entity in entirety (Christian & LüDenbach, 2013, p. 451). It ensures that users of information easily access the information regarding performance and prospects of the particular part of the entity that which they are interested. The stakeholders need to consider separate prospects and performance of each sector so as to be able to estimate the performance of the entire enterprise fully. Provision of segmental information ensures transparency. Transparency is the cornerstone of any corporate financial reporting because analysts and other stakeholders require complete and accurate information to assess the growth and

Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 9

Ethics - Essay Example This may be problematic for the healthcare personnel to diagnose the actual disease a patient will be suffering from, and it may be difficult to apply proper medication to the patient. This is dangerous since it can be harmful to the patient in the long run. However, there are certain instances where breach of confidentiality can be viewed in a positive light. If a patient, particularly an adolescent, is diagnosed with a disease that can be harmful to him or her, then there is a need for breach of confidentiality if it is necessary for the parents to know the case. If the disease is also a threat to the community at large, then it may be imperative for the healthcare practitioner to breach confidentiality. In this particular case, Hathaway believes that harm will come to Andrea who has been diagnosed with cervical cancer unless the parents are informed of the diagnosis of the disease. The problem is that the patient is minor, hence she may not follow proper channels of having the dis ease cured unless her parents are informed. It is also difficult in different healthcare systems in the US for a minor to be treated with such disease without parental consent. Therefore, for the benefit of the minor in this case, it will be ideal to breach confidentiality. 2. ... The case of cervical cancer can pose a threat to public health if it is not controlled. Therefore, measures should be taken in order to ensure that public health is not negatively affected, hence the reason to breach the principle of confidentiality. The virtue theory, on the other hand, talks about what a good person will do in certain circumstances in life (1). In this case, a good person will take measures that are meant to protect the patient as well as the community at large. Any action that is beneficial to the community and the patient is appropriate though it may entail that confidentiality will be breached. These two ethical theories give the healthcare practitioner a leeway to make positive decisions though they may be in breach of confidentiality. 3. In order to address the dilemma presented in this particular case study, there are different stages that can be taken. First and foremost, it is imperative to diagnose the situation and identify all the problems associated wit h the scenario. It is important to gather as much information as possible about this particular problem so as to be in a better position to gain an insight into it. Having identified the problem, it becomes important to try to come up with as many solutions as possible to the problem identified. Once the probable solutions have been identified, the healthcare professional involved can then take the opportunity to select the best possible solutions that are likely to yield the best results from taking that particular course of action. When the best solution has been found, then it can be implemented in order to address the situation. However, implementing the decision is not an end in itself but part of an ongoing process. For instance, it will be important to

Setting Expectations and Supporting Learning Coursework

Setting Expectations and Supporting Learning - Coursework Example This paper seeks to identify the ways in which the ground rules can be established and also illustrate how such ground rules will help in underpinning appropriate behaviour and respect for others in the classroom. The paper will also include a brief explanation of the resources required in the learning environment and how the teachers can facilitate them to the students. Besides, it will also identify such qualified organizations, which can help the students to meet certain specific needs that are beyond the scope of the teachers. Establishing Ground Rules with Learners: The ground rules for students’ conduct in the learning environment can be established in two ways. The first option is for the teacher to decide and implement them. On the other hand, the teacher can involve the students in the process and encourage them to participate in deciding what rules should prevail in their learning environment. Ground rules are necessary to create a suitable learning environment where students respect one another and to make best use of the resources to attain the learning objectives. Rather than imposing the ground rules in an arbitrary manner, it will serve the purpose of establishing a congenial learning environment, if students are allowed to partake in the formation of such guidelines for the team. This is because the learning requirements and styles of the participants differ from one another. Thus, it is important that the ground rules are compatible with the temperament and learning styles of different kinds of students. I will impress upon them that the ground rules are necessary to safeguard their learning interests and to establish mutual respect and rapport among the members of the learning team so as to achieve the learning objectives. Thus, I will establish the ground rules in consultation with the students, by taking their suggestions and involving them in the process. In this manner they will be able to know the significance and relevance of each rule so formed and will respect it. Gravells (2011) also endorses that the implementation of ground rules will be more objective and yield better learning outcomes, if learners are involved in the process of framing the ground rules rather than the teacher enforcing them upon the students. Besides, it will also be a good idea to implore the students to consider their past experience in learning environments and evaluate situations where ground rules have helped them achieve their objectives. Thus, establishing the ground rules in this manner will help them not only in understanding the significance of following the ground rules in the process of attaining the learning outcomes but also will generate in them a feeling that the teacher values their opinions. However, the teachers also need to consider the fact that some learners may be in the habit of trying to impose themselves and attempt to push the teacher. For example, in matters such as smoking and following instructions during a crisis, the teacher has to impose the rule arbitrarily. On the other hand, in the case of rules relating to the use of mobile phones and dress codes, the teacher may, depending on the individual circumstances, use his or her discretion while framing the ground rules. Therefore, the process of establishing ground rules should consider providing maximum leeway to students to tap the resources available, while restricting them to