The concepts of motivation and learning become a crucial part

Through the study of Psychology we find that the concepts of motivation and learning become a crucial part of our development and growth.   A continual cycle of need and fulfillment, it is that which compels us, as individuals, to seek out goals and the means by which we achieve those goals.   Motivation and learning does not end in the abstract but accompanies us throughout the complexities of real life experiences.   In settings like that of the classroom or workplace we may be exposed to an array of new opportunities.To further our need for growth we may explore the resources of undertaking a second language or learn the latest product information in order to market a new wireless communication service plan.   Does this mean we will automatically accept such ventures merely because they exist or do we remain solely within the boundaries of satisfying our needs?   Throughout the following we will examine those experiences and discuss various theories as they relate to the concepts of motivation, learning and the connection thereof.Motivation is by all means an awakening of our individual needs and desires.   Though its concept may be construed as vague, it is our needs that drive us to act and react through both internal and external stimuli.   Food, money, status and love can be determining factors in human motivation.   As such, ones motivation is relatively a manifestation of our experience and environment. (â€Å"Managerial Psychology†, 1989, pp. 22-35)Clinician A.H. Maslow (1954) believed such needs should be classified in terms of a hierarchy system defining different levels of needs.   As each need evolves and satisfaction is obtained a higher need will inevitably develop. Suffice to say, the concept of motivation must first occur before action or direction can be achieved.   By applying theory to real world instances, we can more readily understand the guiding forces that stir our motivations.We begin by examining the need a nd drives of individuals within a classroom setting.   What as students incites us to seek higher learning of that which was previously unknown?   Take for example, a student who undertakes second language learning.   Though at times such coursework may be required, more often than none it is the student who initiates the process and at the very least retains control over which language they choose to learn.The need can be induced by nothing more than the need to fulfill ones own goals and potential.   Maslow’s (1954) Self-Actualization Theory details how an individuals unique potential entices them to further develop their own capabilities.   (Buck, 1988, pp. 32-34)   A student may seek the knowledge gained by second language learning simply because the mastery of their primary language has been so great that they are confident in their abilities to achieve a far more superior challenge.The need for belonging may also play a key role in our motivations to set goa ls of second language learning.   Maslow (1954) concluded the absence of friends or family can guide how strongly our need for group placement overtakes our actions.   This type of motivation can become the single most important part of our life. (â€Å"Managerial Psychology†, 1989, p. 27)Individuals who find themselves, for whatever reason, residing in foreign locations may often incur problems with communication and development of new friendships because they are unfamiliar with the existing language.   For this reason, many who immigrate, work diligently to comprehend the language as determined by the inhabitants of their new geographic location and the need to fit within that group.Just as we find within the classroom, the workplace can also delegate various stimuli that prod our motivations.   Let us say that our employer offers us the opportunity to learn essential features of a new wireless communication service plan.   What influences our decision to accept the offer?   One theory states that motivation may arise out of the need for fulfillment of self-esteem issues.In other words, we desire attributes that lead to self-respect, respect of others, status, achievement, reputation and appreciation.   Discouraging this type of need, could lead an individual to experience feelings of inferiority and weakness. (â€Å"Managerial Psychology†, 1989, p. 27)   We may accept the opportunity set forth mainly as a means to gain recognition from our employer and co-workers.   In turn, such recognition may increase our chances at a higher status as viewed within the company.On the other hand, achievement alone can serve to propel us towards new endeavors.   According to McClelland’s (1988) Theory of Achievement Motivation, individuals with this type of need often overload themselves with difficult challenges yet their goals are obtainable.   These challenges are usually underscored by the need for feedback and assessment of their performance.   A prime example may be those individuals we stereotype as a â€Å"workaholics.†Ã‚   These individuals may be seen as the â€Å"movers and shakers† within their respective fields.   They are by all means, the employees who are known and relied upon to complete the tasks at hand and who are driven solely by their need for accomplishment.Once we have been stimulated by motivations the need must then be fulfilled.   The act of learning is inherent to us from the moment of birth provoking change that can be temporary or long term.   Through learning we seek to absorb the necessary knowledge that allows us to reach the desired result.   Learning may take on a wide range of forms and can be influenced by several factors including, but not limited to, social class, environment and of course motivation. (Howe, 1984, pp. 7-10)While the process of learning may differ between classroom and workplace, the act itself remains constant.   If we examine are previous examples of second language learning and the sale of wireless communication service plans, we can theorize as to which process may be best suited to each venture.Second language learning as with the majority of school learning requires the systematic approach of beginning first with basic comprehension and gradually increasing each subsequent level until the final objective is achieved.   As with motivation, we may associate a hierarchical process of learning with that of a classroom setting.The hierarchical aspects of learning set forth by Gagne (1970) are based on the idea that previous knowledge and experience influences future learning.   Thus, the learner must first acquire lesser skills before developing advanced capabilities.   (Howe, 1984, p. 11)   To simplify this theory, we can say a student though unfamiliar with the language at hand has already achieved the ability to understand concepts of phonetics, grammatical rule and sentence structure. By furt hering those concepts and advancing skill, the motivated student will eventually achieve fluency.Another theory suggests that there are three separate modes of learning known as Accretion, Structuring and Tuning. (Rumelhart & Norman, 1978)   Similar to aspects of hierarchy, Accretion combines new knowledge with previous experience.   Structuring allows new concepts to formulate, while Tuning thrives within a practical setting.   It is also noteworthy to mention that of all three modes, Tuning has the slowest turn around.   This most certainly is due generous amount of time needed to practice and hone learned skills.In more basic terms these modes can be viewed in the context of a generated mental cycle of acquisition, formulation and application.   As students we are taught from an early age that it is only by study and rote application of the knowledge that we will ultimately achieve success.  Ã‚   This is especially true in the sense of academics and the concept of sec ond language learning.In the workplace, the process of learning may vary somewhat from that of the classroom.   However different, the processes are undoubtedly relative to one another.   One theory we may equate with the workplace is the Experiential Learning Theory formulated by Rogers. (1996) Rogers theorized that through this classification of learning, the needs are addressed by gaining applied knowledge as opposed to academic knowledge and that such learning was synonymous with change and growth.This process of learning would include such qualities as personal involvement, self-initiation and pervasive effects to the learner.  Ã‚   We may choose to learn the product detail and how to sell a new wireless communication service plan simply because it is an area of great personal interest.   We may engage employment prospects solely for the benefit of fulfilling the need and yet we are further rewarding by putting into action all that we have learned.   Through employmen t not only do we obtain the skills necessary to achieve this goal, we are then able to put those skills into action.   Growth in this situation could be immense.A second theory that lends itself to the workplace is the Functional Context approach to learning.   (Sticht, 1988)   This theory bases itself primarily on the idea that previous knowledge facilitates new knowledge through association while emphasizing real life problem-solving and learning strategies.   Content of the instruction is delivered in such a way that it will be meaningful to the learner.Additionally, educational materials for this type of learning are generally designed for the learners’ reference once training has been completed.   Employment training classes are a good example of this theory.   Much like in Experiential Learning, we are given both the knowledge to succeed and the avenue in which to apply that knowledge.If we take for instance, an individual who has been employed by the same w ireless communications company for some time and that individual suddenly decides to change his/her position from administration to sales, it is safe to say they will in be required to attend additional training sessions.   Since the individual in all likelihood has already gained a considerable amount of knowledge pertaining to new company products and wireless communication plans, they will be able to associate their previous experience with the new concepts being instilled.In conclusion, while we may regard motivation and learning as two separate entities, their effects when combined cannot be diminished. As humans we are bombarded by stimuli that urge us to seek fulfillment of our awakened needs. Such needs make it possible us to determine our future goals and avoid stagnation.   Motivation and learning, for all intent and purpose, allows us to achieve those goals and to further our growth in both personal and professional terms.Reference ListBoje, D.M. & Leavitt, H.J. & Pon dy, L.R. (Eds.). (1989).   Motivation:   The Driving Force.   In Readings in Managerial Psychology (4th Ed.) (pp. 20-35).   Chicago:   Chicago Press, LTD.Buck, R. (1988).   Maslows Hierarchy of Motives. In Human Motivation and Emotion (2nd Ed.) (pp. 32-34).   New York:   John Wiley & SonsHowe, M.J.A. (1984).   Learning Takes Many Forms.   In A Teachers Guide to the Psychology of Learning (pp. 7-10).   Oxford:   Basil Blackwell, Inc.McClelland, D. (1988)   Human Relations Contributors.   Retrieved on November 17, 2006, fromhttp://www.accel-team.com/human_relations/hrels_06_mcclelland.html

NSA: National Security or National Stalkers? Essay

In 2010, it became legal for the National Security Agency (NSA) to access private email logs, social media accounts and other internet databases (Risen & Poitras, â€Å"N.S.A. Gathers Data on Social Connections of U.S. Citizens). Risen and Poitras (2013) explain that the intention of this change was to help protect the United States (U.S.) from future terrorist attacks and was for the general purpose of national safety. It is unclear how many terrorist attacks all of this new intelligence has actually prevented, however, it is very clear that the NSA’s actions are violating the privacy of not only American citizens, but everyone who lives on American soil. With the internet as a resource, this means that they can not only listen in to conversations, but access virtually any data that is entered via the internet. This includes credit card numbers, GPS coordinates, flight destinations, contact information for family members, personal pictures and much more. The NSA not only vio lates the constitutional rights of American citizens, it puts everyone in the country at great personal risk for crimes such as fraud and discrimination. One of the greatest issues with the access the NSA has is that it violates the constitutional privacy laws. The fourth amendment to the Bill of Rights, protects the American people â€Å"†¦against unreasonable searches†¦ but upon probable cause†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (â€Å"The Bill of Rights: A Transcription†). Risen and Poitras (2013) reveal that the NSA is not even required to check that the individuals they gather information about are foreigners or have anything to do with foreign relations. This extensive access to all personal data including bank accounts, GPS coordinates and insurance information is the definition of an unreasonable search without probable cause. Everyone’s information is collected and stored before there is any reason for the government to search for it. This is in direct violation of the people’s constitutional rights. Of further concern is the deceit with which the NSA continues to address its capabilities. â€Å"Jon Stewart Slams Obama’s Domestic Spying Program† explains that although President Obama claimed that emails and phone calls of the general public were not being tracked, it later became evident that this was not the case. It turns out that the internet has become just one more tool for the government to use to spy on its resi dents. Yet the lies divulged by the NSA demonstrate that not only are  Americans being spied on, they have no way of truly knowing which of their personal information is at risk. As a result, it becomes even more difficult to protect oneself from privacy breaches and indicates the NSA, itself, is not an entity that can be trusted. After all, if they are lying about what they are collecting, there is no way of guaranteeing that they are not also lying about other aspects of their operation, including the way in which the personal information is used. Those close to NSA staff members are particularly vulnerable to internet privacy violations. In â€Å"Jon Stewart Slams Obama’s Domestic Spying Program† a news clip shows that NSA workers have been known to use their capabilities to spy on their loved ones. Clearly the private internet information collected by the NSA can and is misused on a regular basis. According to â€Å"The NSA’s New Spy Facilities Are 7 Times Bigger than the Pentagon† the agency has thousands of employees who are apparently able to use their resources to spy on anyone they are personally interested in. This could lead to the destruction of personal relationships and very dangerous behavior such as stalking or even murder. Another large group of vulnerable individuals are those who bank online. Anyone who uses the internet to make purchases or even view their banking information becomes at an increased risk of fraud. Not only does the NSA have access to all of their information, the mere existence of it means that it can be hacked into or even leaked. Persons of all socioeconomic backgrounds are now vulnerable to theft of their hard earned money as a result of the NSA’s alleged attempt to prevent terrorism. Furthermore, the bank information can be used in such a way that it not only deplete funds, but permanently destroys credit backgrounds and entire identities. According to Risen and Poitras (2013) all foreigners are at a greater risk for being monitored online. This includes both groups that are legally and illegally present in the U.S. and even those who have obtained citizenship. Although the purpose of spying on foreign residents more heavily appears to address the need to prevent terrorism, many (if not most) of these individuals have done nothing to warrant a search of their virtual belongings. It is as if the NSA presumes that everyone could be guilty unless they are proven innoce nt, which is the exact opposite of the way in which the U.S. judicial court operates. In fact, such tactics are a blatant form of discrimination. Mental health patients are also at particular risk. Although their  information is supposed to be confidential and kept strictly between a patient and doctor, the NSA is able to view these communications when they occur online. Such access essentially vetoes the doctor-patient confidentiality agreement. A potential result is the decrease in trust within these delicate relationships and, furthermore, a decline in treatment success. Kaiser patients, for example, are able to email their doctors to access their services more quickly and conveniently. Since these emails can be viewed by the NSA, patients may resist using this valuable resource. Some patients may refrain from revealing information altogether, even via a face-to-face appointment, since medical records are now often published within internet systems for the purpose of more efficient care. Finally, innocent children are put at risk by the NSA’s monitoring of private internet information. Whether parents want to share photographs of their pride and joy with family or tweens are exploring their social relationships, the NSA is watching. For any parent is uncomfortable to think that a stranger, whether or not they work for the government, can view pictures or information about a child with the click of a button. This group may also be the least protected online because they may not know that their information can secretly be seen. Although parents can try to safeguard their youngsters from the general public via computer restrictions and monitoring, they cannot protect them from the capabilities of the NSA. In conclusion, the NSA may be causing more harm than good with their legalized privacy breaches. Everyone is at risk, whether they are aware of it or not. It appears that the potential harm to society is not being weighed properly against the desired gain. There is not denying that it is in the best interest of all American residents that terrorism be prevented, however, the current tactics being used seem inefficient and costly to our society. Innocent people are being persecuted while criminals find ways around this flawed system of spies. If the public is aware that they are being monitored, terrorists are aware as well. It would be in the best interest of the NSA to find alternate, and more sophisticated ways to identify potential hazards instead of surveying the entire U.S. population via the internet. In fact, it is likely that the dangerous persons we seek will be the first to remove relevant communications from the internet, given the circumstances. By creating paranoia and destroying the U.S. quality of  life, we may be creating exactly what terrorist parties are working to achieve. Works Cited â€Å"The Bill of Rights: A Transcription.† National Archives and Records Administration. National Archives and Records Administration. Web. 31 Aug. 2014. . â€Å"The Constitution.† The Constitution. Web. 01 Sept. 2014. . â€Å"Jon Stewart Slams Obama’s Domestic Spying Program.† YouTube. YouTube. Web. 01 Sept. 2014. . â€Å"The NSA’s New Spy Facilities Are 7 Times Bigger Than the Pentagon.† Defense One. Web. 02 Sept. 2014. . Risen, James, and Laura Poitras. â€Å"N.S.A. Gathers Data on Social Connections of U.S. Citizens.† The New York Times. The New York Times, 28 Sept. 2013. Web. 02 Sept. 2014. .

Berkshire Hathaway Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Berkshire Hathaway - Case Study Example Warren Buffett did not overreact in firing Peat Marwick. There was no time that could be given to Peat Marwick to correct the mistakes that were made in their accounts. From the quotes, Berkshire there was no sense in accounting books of Peat Marwick Reverse in 1984 annual report was done to treat sales of stock not as a dividend distribution. The auditors have considered the potential for future transactions in their decision as thy compared the reports with those in 1983. There were many necessities in restating 1983 financial statement to be much considered in 1984. The treatment with proportionate stock redemption enables correction of errors that occurred in previous instances. Handling of the issue would not have been different in today’s context since accounting has not much changed from the time the corrections were made. Principles of accounting used are still recently

Observation Journal#3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Observation Journal#3 - Essay Example Avery approached a structure meant for them to play inside and climb, that was in the playground and tried to climb in it with difficulties. ‘Teacher! Teacher! he shouted looking at the teacher who was with other children inside the structure. The teacher then pulled Avery up and finally he was in the structure. Avery started jumping on the play structure as he falls down. He was jumping as he is shouting and laughing at the same time. I have observed that Avery does not take much time on a particular place for long, but he keeps running up and down touching one thing and another within a short time. Avery saw another child leave the play structure and go to the slide that was just beside the structure. Avery then went out of the play structure and ran very fast towards the slide. He suddenly stopped near the climbing staircases of the slide. He was keenly looking at the staircases and other children as they climbed one by one to the slide. He then stepped on the first staircas e with his right foot. Seeing that it was stable, Avery began climbing up the slide faster as there was another child coming after him. When Avery reached the top, and now it was time for him to slide down, he got afraid and refused to slide down. He blocked the way for the other children who were enjoying themselves in the slide. Avery then moved on one side of the slide, paving way for the other children to pass and slide themselves down. Avery sat up there looking at his fellow children slide with a lot if ease. He was cheering them up one by one as they were going down the slide. Avery suddenly lost the grip of the walls of the slide as he was clapping his hands to cheer the other children. Avery began sliding down unknowingly. ‘Huuuu! Huuuuu! he shouted as he was going down the slide. When he was down the slide, Avery began running away from the slide area, towards his teacher. ‘Teacher, poop, Avery told his teacher. ‘Ooh, you want to poop? ‘Yes,

Cultural Incomprehension between Europeans and Native Americans in the Essay

Cultural Incomprehension between Europeans and Native Americans in the Colonial Context - Essay Example It is usual for European explorers to use casually terms like "wilderness" and "unknown" to describe homelands of native people. In fact, these regions were the real milieu of Native American homes with their adjoining gardens and hunting lands. The journey of the Europeans and their entourage, bearing the massive inventory of the expedition could not have completed the mission without the co-operation and support of the natives. It is highly doubtful whether they would have survived in the rugged and hostile terrain without heavily relaying on the expertise of the natives for whom it was their home. The wealth of vital topographic knowledge about rivers, streams, hills, and passages might have been invaluable logistic support on their itinerary. Though they co-operated both Europeans and the natives may not have understood the full implications of the unfolding drama. There are plethoras of motives that goad explorers to brave the tumultuous waves of perilous oceans, to confront the dusty heat waves of the desert and to scale the precipitous cliffs. Nevertheless, social historians have narrowed down the motives of the men to the inordinate craving for gold, God and glory. Those who went for the mundane lure of wealth may not have much reflected on the experience of their contact with the alien people. However, the missionaries who went out to save souls might have been shocked at the sight of natives whose ways were totally unacceptable. They dumped the natives as heathens: The attitudes of BFM missionaries toward American Indian manifestations of heathenism were thus unremittingly ethnocentric. These Presbyterians could see nothing worth preserving in the rich and varied Indian cultures they entered (Coleman 80). Many Europeans failed to grasp the close link between health, environmental concerns and cosmology. As Kupperman observed such concept was also prevalent in England and France. (Kupperman 2000). It is somewhat surprising as medical theories in many European societies then, also took into consideration the relation between morality and well being and sometimes attributed illness to witchcraft While the attitude of the early missionaries were one of disgust at the sight of the savage practices of the natives, early diplomat-explorer could experience a sense of kinship with the savage chiefs. George Percy speaks of his first sight of a Powhatan werowance in 1607 as follows:His body was painted all with Crimson, with a chaine of Beads about his necke, his face painted blew, besprinkled with silver Ore as wee thought, his eares all behung with fine Copper or Gold, he entertained us in so modest a proud fashion, as though he had beene a Prince of Civil government, holding his countenance without laughter or any such ill behavior. (Bragdon 38) Kupperman (Kupperman 2000,63) has pointed out, Percy, himself a nobleman understood the nobility of the native but was unwilling to give much importance to his political stature. The range of the Indians was mainly in their land and their interaction with other cultures was minimal. The Europeans on the other hand with their spirit of expansion and lure for gold and

Report on TESLA case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Report on TESLA case study - Essay Example top managers, Tesla has been able to achieve success while at the same time adopting effective strategies such as the latest increment of more patents to more than 250. In addition, the partnership that the company has formed with companies such as Daimler makes Tesla to have a strong capital base. Tesla value chain analysis covers aspect such as inbound logistics, operations, and outbound logistics among others. Despite being a company with a strong support from the customers, Tesla was at one time involved in PR issue that involved poor batteries that lacked the information from the company on how to use them. Major business level strategies that are covered by the paper include use of extensive technology and innovation, formation of value-creating partnership, and production of cars that have different facilities as needed by the customers. Similarly, Tesla adopts corporate strategies such as expanding its market share, existing products into new markets such as Hong Kong, China and Australia among others, and production diversification among others. The major models that are covered to analyse Tesla operations include SAF and STAIR Models. Additionally, the paper provides some recommendation to the company such as penetrating emerging markets, establishing research and development centres in the developing countries, and continuing with product development among others. The purpose of using this analysis is to evaluate the risks and opportunities in the external environment that can have impact on the performance of Tesla. These include social, political, economic, environmental and technological factors. Tesla sells their cars in more than 17 countries in Asia, North America and West Europe. Protection laws are put in place for companies manufacturing cars to strictly meet the environmental laws on emission, thus the Tesla have to come up with the methods of dealing with the political pattern that can influence their business operations (Bernardez, 2005).

Outline the main approaches taken to tackle child poverty over the Essay

Outline the main approaches taken to tackle child poverty over the past decade. What lessons can we learn from these for the current government's approach to tackling child poverty - Essay Example It is indispensable to note that the strategies employed by the central government including enactment of Child government Act 2010 have remained essential in significant reduction of child poverty in United Kingdom. The paper explores the main methods used by the government in tackling child poverty and discusses some of the lessons learnt from the approaches. The central government of United Kingdom initiated several taxation policies that ensured tax relief for working parents with the main aim of improving their income. The tax reliefs include several programs including Child tax credit, working tax credit, and other Child benefits. The tax benefits aims at providing extra income for the poor families who cannot independently support their children. In ensuring taxation reliefs for families, the government has used the income tax system in such a way that it enables families to retain more of their earnings. The government ensures tax reliefs through income tax personal allowances with the aim of improving family earnings. The plans have been essential in improving income earnings in amongst families and consequently raising their standards of living and independence. The working tax credit relates to benefits from the state within United Kingdom that government advances to citizens who work but have low income. The taxation scheme that the government introduced in April 2003 exists as the contemporary system of refundable tax credit that aims at providing relief for poverty stricken families. The program also remains available to childless parents with adopted dependent children besides working families who need external support to manage their families. In addition, citizens may claim working tax credit mainly if they remain responsible for any child within United Kingdom. The central government of United Kingdom introduced the working tax credit with the main aim of

Mixed method methodology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Mixed method methodology - Assignment Example Integrating quantitative and qualitative methods capitalizes on the strengths of each approach, and offsets their different weaknesses. Use of complementary paradigms promote corroboration of a research study, expand a set of results, or even discover something that would have been missed otherwise.Qualitative research explores the richness, depth, and complexity of phenomena. They aid in gaining critical insights, and unravel latent meanings by improving our comprehension of the whole. Interpretivism is the backbone of qualitative research.Quantitative research is generally used to investigate research questions. An array of possible quantitative research designs can be applied. However, in areas like sociology, where it is difficult to do pure experimental research, quasi-experimental, and non-experimental designs can be adapted.Research results have greater objectivity and credibility. Researcher’s bias can be eliminated. Data collection is structured, precise and quick. Re search findings can be generalized if sufficiently large populations are sampled during data collection. Testing and the validating hypothesis is simpler and follows mathematical frameworks. Examples of quantitative research abound in marketing, finance, trend analysis and co-relational studies. For instance, studying the effect of a drug or treatment could follow tightly controlled experimental methodology; whereas, studying the effect of some disease on age, gender, life style would require co-relational approach. Abundant literature on quantitative research is available, (Sibanda, 2009) provides a comprehensive review. Key considerations for mixed method design for research study: Johnson and Onwuegbuzie (2004) articulate two typologies: mixed-model designs; and mixed-method designs. The authors contend that, mixed-model designs can be constructed by mixing qualitative and quantitative approaches within, and across the stages of research viz.: problem definition, data collection, and analyzing-interpreting data. Mixed-method design on the other hand, the authors opine, are based on the crossing of paradigm emphasis, and time ordering of quantitative and qualitative phases. How much of the qualitative-quantitative mix, and at what stages of research, are a few key dimensions for mixed-method research model. Caracelli & Greene (1997) proposed following framework for consideration of mixed-method approach in research study: Design Description Triangulation Different methods used concurrently, preferably with equal priority, to assess same phenomena toward convergence and increased validity Expansion Different methods used for different phenomena; can be sequential or concurrent, equal or unequal priority, with paradigm assumptions important or

Estimate the Market Size Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Estimate the Market Size - Case Study Example Noarlunga centre is an attractive place due to the reason that it covers the residential, commercial and parkland region. Moreover, the recent growth and development is another feature that makes it an eye-catching place (City of Onkaparinga, 2011). Stage lives including the living theatre, concert and visual arts are one of the product types available at Hopgood Theatre. According to the statistics, it has come to conclusion that adults that age 15 years and above living in South Australia are the main stakeholders that have an interest in arts and theatre. In addition, approximately 38 percent of the people that makes up more than 2.5 million visitors attend cultural venues and events on yearly basis. Moreover, the people are also keen to come under involvement in cultural activities, which depicts the figure of over 225,000 people. Slightly over 25 percent of the children between 5 to 14 years are also involved in cultural activities (Australian Government, 2011). ... A higher proportion that is approximately 99 percent of juvenile of the age group of 15 to 17 years in SA attended cultural venues and events, compared to the other age groups surveyed (ABS, 2007). According to the statistics, the rate of market is increasing due to the reason that the average income as compared to the previous years has seen an inclination in the trend. In addition, the primary cause for the increase in income was the increasing demand of the labor and employment rate also increased with the launching of projects. Moreover, the importance and emphasis on education has also experienced a raise and enhancement over the years as the increased number of visitors on the website proves this fact. While looking at the other end of the continuum, the average spending time of people on the culture and recreation or the leisure activities has come across a declination towards the trend over the past few years. This downfall has added to the reason of the decreasing market. Ye ar Product (Cultural Arts) Sales in Million (Approximate value) Revenues in Million Which month is more likely to have customers 2010 Living Stage 840 2750 April to June 2011 Living Stage 800 3150 April to June 2012 Living Stage 760 3550 April to June A notice in the trend has come under observation that the period from April to June is the peak season in which people are likely to involve themselves in the cultural activities and events (ABS, 2007). References City of Onkaparinga. 2011. Noarlunga Centre - Noarlunga Downs. Retrieved on September, 07, 2011: http://profile.id.com.au/Default.aspx?id=119&pg=101&gid=250&type=enum ABS. 2007. South Australian Cultural Statistics. National Centre for Culture and

Retaining Foreign Talents in the Dubai Banking Industry Dissertation

Retaining Foreign Talents in the Dubai Banking Industry - Dissertation Example Advani (2006) mentions that the said situation exists in the said country because of the fact that the employees would rather work for the foreign banking institutions as the latter offers better compensation packages than their local counterparts. The Oxford Business Group (2008) also cited attracting and retaining high quality talent as one of the most common problems experienced by banks in Bulgaria. Generally, this problem is brought about by various issues such as the competition for limited banking resources such as the location that can be used to establish banks, the availability of skilled employees and eligible clients (The Oxford Business Group 2008). In Dubai, as well as in the other members of the Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC), retaining foreign talent in their banking industry is likewise an important issue issue. During the past years, the said countries, most especially Dubai, has been considered attractive in terms of enticing expatriate professionals Nevertheless, it was only considered as relatively successful in a sense that it has merely served as a transient market wherein the young professionals begin their careers, earn tax free income and socialize for 2-3 years. In this sense, employers therein experience high rates of turnovers as regards their staff (Rehman 2007). The 2007-2010 depression which affected Dubai along with the other members of the GCC has resulted to the radical decrease in the number of expatriate workers in the said countries. True enough, many Westerners were employed four to five years ago. However, nowadays, most of them have been transferred to other countries and some have been repatriated to their own countries. More often than not, the decision involving them is brought about by the fact that foreign expatriates are more expensive than others. Undoubtedly, the members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, most especially Dubai has long relied on foreign expatriates. However, because of the economic issues that they have faced, most of them have decided to come up with initiatives which are aimed towards the localization of the workforce, replacing the foreign expatriates with skilled local employees. The adoption of these initiatives had been highly influenced by the banking institutions in the countries to cut down their expenses by reducing the compensation packages offered to the expatriate professionals. Aside from these, the decision of financial institutions to cut down the premium pay of expatriates had also facilitated their turnovers (Rehman 2007). Undoubtedly, there is a need to implement employee strategies so as to retain key employees, most especially foreign talents in a certain company. However, because of economic problems such as recession, companies tend to cut down their costs in order to cope with the financial situation. This paper focuses on the issue of expatriate management in Dubai. It focuses on the different innovative strategies that companies, most especially memb ers of the banking industry usually implement in order to retain foreign talent. However, given the fact that Dubai suffered from economic recession in the last three years, this research aims to look into whether or not ht financial institutions therein continue the implementation of the said strategies during this period in the hopes of retaining foreign talent. Statement of the Problem As previously mentioned, the adoption of pertinent employee strategies is of paramount importance in terms of retaining foreign employees. Amongst the members of the banking industry, the key to attracting and retaining employees is through the development of good payment packages. However, banking instituti

On Arabian Culture Essay Example for Free

On Arabian Culture Essay The literature on social diversity and cleavages in Arab society and the Middle East as a whole suffers from several fallacies, two of which are most pertinent here. One is the tendency, particularly among Orientalists, to speak both of the mosaic nature of Arab society and of the existence of a unified mentality, or one Arab mind, without any awareness of the contradiction between these two abstractions. The other is the emphasis either on communal cleavages or on class conflicts, with the result that one becomes explanatory while the other is ignored. The interplay and coincidence of these two cleavages are rarely examined in their historical and social contexts. How can an individual define the diversity of Arab society? The diversity that characterizes Arab society needs to be analyzed within a three-dimensional framework: (a) a homogeneity-heterogeneity continuum; (b) the processes of conflict-accommodation-assimilation; and (c) social class cleavages. The continuum that covers the range from a completely homogeneous society to one of great heterogeneity encompasses a complex system of vertical loyalties and communal differentiations (ethnic, linguistic, sectarian, tribal, local, regional, and the like) that coincides as well as conflicts with social class cleavages. Arab society has historically been highly heterogeneous. Certainly, one may argue that there has recently been a resurgence of communal loyalties and mobilization, confirming the mosaic and segmentary structures of society. What cannot be granted is the static conception of these loyalties and cleavage as permanent, unchanging forms of differentiation. What is Arab society in general? The characterization of Arab society as heterogeneous, however, needs to be accompanied by an explicit clarification that not all Arab countries are similar in this respect. In fact, they differ widely in regard to their positions on the homogeneity-heterogeneity continuum. Compared to other Arab countries, Egypt and Tunisia, for instance, may be described as rather homogeneous as far as communal cleavages are concerned. These two countries tend to have fewer ethnic, religious, and tribal differences (and, hence, conflicts) than other Arab societies, and are characterized more by social complexity and social class cleavages. A second group of Arab countries, such as Lebanon and Sudan, occupy a position close to the opposite end of the continuum, each being more of a mosaic in structure and social composition. A third set, such as Syria, Algeria, Arabia, and Morocco, tend to occupy positions more in the middle of the continuum. Conventional Western literature on Arab and other Middle Eastern societies has persistently avoided any serious discussion of social class structure. Instead, it has conceived of Arab societies simply as a mosaic. At the margin of this mainstream discourse, however, there has been some occasional speculation on problems of social stratification. Whenever a discussion of this nature has taken place, it has evolved into a heated exchange. One point of view reaffirms the conclusions of the mosaic model and questions the relevance of class analysis. For instance, C. A. O. van Niewenhuijze and James Bill, in separate works, dismiss class analysis in economic terms and instead use Weberian concepts of status and power. Similarly, Iliya Harik has more recently dismissed the thesis put forward by some writers that the Lebanese civil war is actually a class struggle and expressed his â€Å"belief that class distinctions in Lebanon are too obscure to sustain the class struggle argument†. Bryan S. Turner, by contrast, has pointed out that anyone â€Å"who wants to develop a Marxist analysis of North Africa and the Middle East must start with a critique of the mosaic theory and all its related assumptions†. Such a critique, he explains, is required because mosaic analysts believe â€Å"that traditional Middle Eastern societies were not class dominated and that in the modern Middle East social class is only in the process of emerging alongside other forms of social stratification†. Nicholas S. Hopkins has applied ideas of class derived from the Marxist tradition to changes in the social structure of an agricultural town in Tunisia, concluding that essential changes in the mechanization of agriculture and in the improvement of communications â€Å"led to a shift in the organization of work away from a pattern based on mobilization of labor within the household or the extended kindred . . . and toward a pattern of labor determined by wage labor†. Consequently, this Tunisian agricultural town has shifted from a society in which rank was based â€Å"on vertical rather than on horizontal links† to one â€Å"based on class†. Hopkins argues further that not only is there class in the objective sense, â€Å"there is also class consciousness, at least in embryonic, symbolic form†. My own view is that the persistence of communal cleavages complicates rather than nullifies social class consciousness and struggle. This persistence of communal cleavages and vertical loyalties in some Arab countries is owing to the perpetuation of traditional systems in which communities are linked to their local zaims (traditional leaders) through patron-client relationships. To the extent that constructive change can be introduced in these areas, such traditional systems will give way, increasingly, to other social and class relationships. Reference: Gutas, D. (1998). Greek Thought, Arab Culture : The Graeco-Arabic Translation Movement in Baghdad and Early Abbasid Society (2nd-4th 8th-10th C. ): Routledge. Rejwan, N. (1998). Arabs Face the Modern World: Religious, Cultural, and Political Responses to the West: Gainesville University Press of Florida. Szarmach, P. E. (1979). Aspects of Jewish Culture in the Middle Ages: Albany State University of New York Press

Debate of Nature vs Nurture

Debate of Nature vs Nurture The historical debate regarding nature and nurture has been going on for years and is still unresolved. Many theorists believe what we have inherited and our genes, makes us the way we are and affects how we develop. Other theorists believe it is the way we are brought up and our experiences, that make us the way we are and how we develop. [1] Nature is the coding of genes in each cell in us humans determine the different traits that we have, more dominantly on the physical attributes like eye color, hair color, ear size, height, and other traits. However, it is still not known whether the more abstract attributes like personality, intelligence, sexual orientation, likes and dislikes are gene-coded in our DNA, too. [2] The nurture theory holds that genetic influence over abstract traits may exist; however, the environmental factors are the real origins of our behavior. This includes the use of conditioning in order to induce a new behavior to a child, or alter an unlikely behavior being shown by the child. According to John Watson, one of the strongest psychologists who propose environmental learning as a dominating side in the nature vs nurture debate, once said that he can be able to train a baby randomly chosen in a group of 12 infants, to become any type of specialist Watson wants. He stated that he could train him to be such regardless of the childs potentialities, talents and race. [2] In the case of personality traits, non-shared environmental effects are often found to outweigh shared environmental effects. That is, environmental effects that are typically thought to be life-shaping (such as family life) may have less of an impact than non-shared effects, which are harder to identify. One possible source of nonshared effects is the environment of prenatal development. Random variations in the genetic program of development may be a substantial source of nonshared environment. These results suggest that nurture may not be the predominant factor in environment. Environment and our situations, do in fact impact our lives, but not the way in which we would typically react to these environmental factors. We are preset with personality traits that are the basis for how we would react to situations. An example would be how extraverted prisoners become less happy than introverted prisoners and would react to their incarceration more negatively due to their preset extrave rted personality [3] Throughout the stages of our life nature and nurture play a large part and help dictate where we will end up in the future for example if you were brought up in a place with a really bad drug problems its likely that you will also develop a drug addiction, also if you were brought up in an area with a lot of gang problems its likely that you will become involved in gang related issues. Neglect and abuse can also affect your development as it could leave you with psychological issues that if left unresolved could cause problems in your adult life, for example if at a young age you see your father beating your mother you might begin to think that this is what is suppose to happen unless told otherwise, leading to you in the future having psychological problems. At childhood the brain is like a sponge and will absorbs any information it is told by the senses. Childrens temperament such as their characteristics and ways of responding to emotional events, novel stimuli, and their own impulses seem to be in part affected by their individual genetic makeup. Similarly, being slow or quick to learn from instruction and everyday experiences has some genetic basis. Inherited characteristics and tendencies are not always evident at birth. Many physical features emerge gradually through the process of maturation, the genetically guided changes that occur over the course of development. Environmental support, such as food, reasonably safe and toxin-free surroundings, and responsive care from others, is necessary for maturation to take place; nature never works alone.[4] Birth and Infancy How a mother handles her pregnancy is critical to a babys development, if a pregnant mother drinks large quantities of alcohol   it can affect her unborn baby extremely, children born with foetal alcohol syndrome tend to be born smaller, tend to have smaller heads and may have heart problems and learning difficulties. Also it is important that during the pregnancy the mother stays healthy as possible as if the mother develops any infections such as rubella it can cause impaired hearing and eyesight or heart damage, things like a mothers diet could also affect their unborn child as you are affected by what your mother eats for example if a mothers diet is high in fat and sugar the child will be have a risk of heart disease and malnutrition, if a mother eats a low amount of healthy food during their pregnancy it can lead to poor health for the child. During infancy Relationships are particularly important as infants learn primarily through their relationship with others. Eye contact, smiles and imitation set the stage for more sustained communication and meaningful exchanges and engagement with parents and other caregivers, and a growing world of relationships. [5]   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bibliography http://www.studymode.com/essays/M1-Discuss-The-Nature-Nurture-Debate-1503784.html https://explorable.com/nature-vs-nurture-debate https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nature_versus_nurture#Personality_traits http://www.education.com/reference/article/nature-nurture/ http://www.beststart.org/OnTrack_English/2-factors.html

Causes and effects of gender based violence

Causes and effects of gender based violence Gender-based violence both reflects and reinforces inequities between men and women and compromises the health, self-respect, safety and sovereignty of its victims. It encompasses an extensive assortment of human rights violations, including sexual exploitation of children, rape, home brutality, sexual battering and harassment, trafficking of women and girls and numerous detrimental customary practices. Any one of these abuses can leave profound mental scars, damage the wellbeing of women and girls in common, including their reproductive and sexual health, and in some instances, results in death. Violence against women has been called the most insidious yet slightest renowned human rights oppression in the globe, and is a demonstration of historically uneven supremacy dealings between men and women, which have led to dominance over and inequity against women by men and to the hindrance of the complete progression of women, that cruelty against women is one of the critical social mech anisms by which women are compelled into a subsidiary position compared with men. Around the world, as many as one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex, or maltreated in some other approach most frequently by someone she knows, including by her spouse or another male relatives; one woman in four has been ill-treated during pregnancy. Violence against women mutually violates and impairs or nullifies the gratification by women of their human rights and elementary freedoms. In all societies, to a superior or minor extent, women and girls are subjected to corporal, sexual and mental violence that cuts across ranks of earnings, class and customs. This is a subject which endangers womens lives, bodies, mental uprightness and autonomy. Violence may have reflective effects, both direct and indirect, on a womans reproductive health, including: unnecessary pregnancies and limited admittance to family planning information and contraceptives, treacherous abortion or injuries unremitting throughout a lawful abortion subsequent to an unwanted pregnancy, compl ications from recurrent, high-risk pregnancies and lack of follow-up care, sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, continual gynecological problems as well as mental tribulations. Gender-based violence also serves by purpose or outcome to perpetuate male authority and control. It is sustained by a custom of silence and denunciation of the significance of the health penalty of violence. In addition to the impairment they exact on the individual stage, these outcomes also exact a communal duty and position an intense and needless yoke on health services. According to Murphy and Ringheim, four factors have been constantly linked with violent behavior: norms of male privilege and possession of women; male supervision of possessions in the family; male execution of decision-making in the family; and concepts of masculinity attached to supremacy and nobility (2001). Moreover, UNFPA recognizes that violence against women is inextricably linked to gender-based inequalities. When women and girls are anticipated to be generally submissive, their conduct in relation to their health, together with reproductive health, is unenthusiastically affected at all stages of the life cycle. When investigating the extenuating conditions lack of resources, education, healthcare and the sex trade, we find great and competent relations, and understand that these factors enable the perseverance of this phenomenon. The pervasiveness of home violence in a given society, thus, is the outcome of implicit reception by that society. The way men analyze themselves as men, and the way they think of women, will verify whether they use aggression or intimidation against women. Studies of very young boys and girls show that even though boys may have an inferior acceptance for annoyance, and an inclination towards rough-and-tumble play, these tendencies are dwarfed by the magnitude of male socialization and peer demands into masculinity roles. UNFPA recognizes that ending gender-based violence will mean changing cultural concepts about masculinity, and that procedure should dynamically appoint men, whether they are strategy makers, parents, spouses or little boys. Cross-cultural studies of wife abuse have found that nearly a fifth of peasant and small-scale societies are essentially free of family violence. The existence of such cultures proves that male violence against women is not the inevitable result of male biology or sexuality, but more a matter of how society views masculinity. Most domestic violence involves male anger directed against their women partners. This gender difference appears to be rooted in the way boys and men are socialized biological factors do not seem to account for the dramatic differences in behavior in this regard between men and women. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to gender-based violence. Some husbands become more violent during the wifes pregnancy, even kicking or hitting their wives in the belly. These women run twice the risk of miscarriage and four times the risk of having a low birth-weight baby. Looking at the pprevalence of and reasons for domestic violence among women from low socioeconomic communities of Karachi, cross-sectional study were conducted to estimate the prevalence of domestic violence and identify the reasons for it among 400 married women aged 15-45 years in low socioeconomic areas in urban Karachi. Data were collected with a pretested questionnaire. The prevalence of verbal abuse was 97.5% by the husband and 97.0% by the in-laws; the prevalence of physical abuse was 80.0% and 57.5% by the husband and in-laws respectively. Financial issues were the commonest reason for domestic violence followed by infertility and not having a son. The prevalence of domestic violence in this sample of women is high. There is a need to address this problem with efforts from health workers, policy-makers, nongovernmental organizations and others (Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal 2007). The majority of sexual assault victims are young. Women in positions of abject dependence on male authorities are also particularly subject to unwanted sexual coercion. Rape in time of war is still common. It has been extensively documented in recent civil conflicts, and has been used systematically as an instrument of torture or ethnic domination. Now, with precedents set at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, in Tanzania, and the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia, at The Hague, for mass rape, other acts such as sexual assault, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced sterilization, forced abortion, and forced pregnancy may qualify as crimes of torture, crimes against humanity, and even some as crimes of genocide. This vicious cycle of development, identity and gender-based violence in fact explains the empirical evidence of the association between gender based violence and poverty, the individual risk factors of alcohol and substance abuse, ma le unemployment, male educational status and childhood experience of violence. Poverty, lack of education and lack of healthcare increases both vulnerability and the likelihood of exposure to gender based violence. There has also been the prevalence of the sex trade among women as a means of earning income which ultimately has unbearable the consequences on its workers and on women in general. The objectification of women is also a pressing issue that cannot be ignored. Violence, and womens fear of it, limits womens choices in virtually all spheres of life. It has long-term, as well as short-term consequences on womens physical and emotional well-being. It detrimentally affects womens ability to gain an education, earn a livelihood, develop human relationships and participate in public activities, including development programmes. There are different types of problems all over the world that women face, from the wealthiest countries to the poorest. In many countries, women are not entitled to own property or inherit land. Social exclusion, honor killings, female genital mutilation, trafficking, restricted mobility and early marriage among others, deny the right to health to women and girls and increase illness and death throughout the life-course. It will remain difficult for us to see sustainable progress unless we fix failures in health systems and society so that girls and women enjoy equal access to health information and services, education, em ployment and political positions. Reports by UNICEF, State of the Worlds Children, state that reasons for such disparity include the fact that women are generally underpaid and because they often perform low-status jobs, compared to men. UNICEF notes that the data isnt always perfect, and that generalizations such as the above can hide wider fluctuations. In Brazil, for example, women under the age of 25 earn a higher average hourly wage than their male counterparts. (p.39)Women not only earn less than men but also tend to own fewer assets. Smaller salaries and less control over household income constrain their ability to accumulate capital. Gender biases in property and inheritance laws and in other channels of acquiring assets also leave women and children at greater risk of poverty. Paid employment for women does not automatically lead to better outcomes for children. Factors such as the amount of time women spend working outside the household, the conditions under which they are employed and who controls the income they generate determine how the work undertaken by women in the labor market affects their own well-being and that of children (2007, p.36). Moreover, according to the United Nations, in no country in the world do men come anywhere close to women in the amount of time spent in housework. Furthermore, despite the efforts of feminist movements, women in the core [wealthiest, Western countries] still suffer disproportionately, leading to what sociologists refer to as the feminization of poverty, where two out of every three poor adults are women. The informal slogan of the Decade of Women became Women do two-thirds of the worlds work, receive 10 percent of the worlds income and own 1 percent of the means of production (Robbins 1999, p.354). Historically, economic recessions have placed a disproportionate burden on women. Women are more likely than men to be in vulnerable jobs, to be under-employed or without a job, to lack social protection, and to have limited access to and control over economic and financial resources. Policy responses to the financial crisis must take gender equality perspectives into account to ensure, for example, that women as well as men can benefit from employment creation and investments in social infrastructure. According to the Department of Economic and Social Affairs 2009, The economic and financial crisis puts a disproportionate burden on women, who are often concentrated in vulnerable employment, are more likely to be unemployed than men, tend to have lower unemployment and social security benefits, and have unequal access to and control over economic and financial resources. International statistics of the International Labor Organization showed that The economic crisis is expected to in crease the number of unemployed women by up to 22 million in 2009, the International Labor Office (ILO) says in its annual Global Employment Trends for Women report (GET), adding that the global jobs crisis is expected to worsen sharply with the deepening of the recession in 2009. In most societies, rape and domestic violence have on occasion provoked public outrage, but it has been left to womens organizations and movements to take more concerted action. The North does not have all the answers to this problem as gender-based violence is very much in existence in the developed world. Because gender-based violence is sustained by silence, womens voices must be heard. UNFPA puts every effort into enabling women to speak out against gender-based violence, and to get help when they are victims of it. The Fund is also committed to keeping gender-based violence in the spotlight as a major health and human rights concern. Another fascinating fact is that gender based violence is rampant in developed counties as compared to the developing countries. For instance, in a place like the U.S, despite the fact that advocacy groups like National Organization for Women (NOW) have worked for two decades to halt the epidemic of gender-based violence and sexual assault, the numb ers are still shocking. Murder, Intimate Partner Violence or Battering, sexual violence and assault are common phenomena. To the astonishment of most women across the globe, there is such a low conviction rate in gender-based violence cases, women are not believed by men and apparently even by fellow women. The judiciary imposes light sentences on such cases and even to some they are released on very modest bail or a mere warning. UNFPA advocates for legislative reform and enforcement of laws for the promotion and the protection of womens rights to reproductive health choices and informed consent, including promotion of womens awareness of laws , regulations and policies that affect their rights and responsibilities in family life. The Fund promotes zero tolerance of all forms of violence against women and works for the eradication of traditional practices that are harmful to womens reproductive and sexual health, such as rituals associated with puberty. Possible victims have been offered legal, medical and psychological support, and medical referrals when necessary. Attention has been paid to involving communities, and to creating support networks for gender-based violence victims that include both police and health-care providers, along with counseling services. UNFPA has also held workshops for health providers on recognizing the effects of gender-based violence on womens health, and on how to detect and prevent abuse and assist victims. These have stressed the need for confidentiality and monitoring. This body has also strengthening advocacy on gender-based violence in all country programmes, in conjunction with other United Nations partners and NGOs as well as advocating for women with parliamentarians and womens national networks. There have been strategies to counter violence against women and support the survivors. Case studies come from times of peace and times of armed conflict. Sections suggest strategies for transforming attitudes and beliefs in different societies that condone such violence, for supporting individual survivors, and to ensure that governments and NGOs fulfill their duty to protect woman. Womens rights around the world are an important indicator to understand global well-being. A major global womens rights treaty was ratified by the majority of the worlds nations a few decades ago. Yet, despite many successes in empowering women, numerous issues still exist in all areas of life, ranging from the cultural, political to the economic. For example, women often work more than men, yet are paid less; gender discrimination affects girls and women throughout their lifetime; and women and girls are often are the ones that suffer the most poverty. Many may think that womens rights are only an issue in countries where religion is law, such as many Muslim countries. Or even worse, some may think this is no longer an issue at all. But reading this report about the United Nations Womens Treaty and how an increasing number of countries are lodging reservations, will show otherwise. Gender equality furthers the cause of child survival and development for all of society, so the importance of womens rights and gender equality should not be underestimated. As part of its work to counter gender-based violence, UNFPA has supported training of medical professionals, to make them more sensitive towards women who may have experienced violence and to meet their health needs. Governments are not living up to their promises under the Womens Convention to protect women from discrimination and violence such as rape and female genital mutilation. There are many governments who have also not ratified the Convention, including the U.S. Many countries that have ratified it do so with many reservations. Gender equality and the well-being of children go hand in hand since it furthers the cause of child survival and development. It produces a double dividend: It benefits both women and children. Womens equal rights and influence in the key decisions that shape their lives and those of children must be enhanced in three distinct arenas: the household, the workplace and the political sphere. Gender equality is not only morally right, it is pivotal to human progress and sustainable development. Furthermore, this will be taking us closer to achieving the Millennium Development Goal Number 3-promoting gender equality and empowering women-will also contribute to achieving all the other goals, from reducing poverty and hunger to saving childrens lives, improving maternal health, ensuring universal education, combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Pressure must be maintained on national governments to prioritise the coordination of programmes and policies across sectors such as health, justice, social welfare and education to ensure that the composite needs of survivors of violence are addressed. Of equal importance is scaling up responses that work media campaigns, hotlines, and one-stop crisis centers and so on. Basically, gender based violence limits women as human beings, drains their energy and hope, and constricts the possibilities of creating a new vision of society. Since it includes threats of violence, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or private, Violence against women is a violation of womens human rights, a cause and consequence of gender inequality, and a major cause of womens ill health. It is a detriment to their well-being, very often a crime, and a significant cost to the resources of the wider society. As a consequence, there are policy issues across the whole range of subjects that concern governments. These issues are particularly important in the area of crime, health, family, education and economic well-being.

Positives of the Law Essay -- essays papers

Positives of the Law When President Bush signed the No Child Left Behind Act in 2002, he promised that his education reform would bring hope to children. The law calls for more testing in third to eighth grade each year in reading and math (Bacon, 2003). Students will be tested to make sure that the schools are adequately teaching them the information they should know. In 53% of American schools, which receive direct Federal Government financial support because they have large numbers of low-income students, students can now transfer to another school or receive free tutoring if their school fails for two years in a row to improve the test scores of its students (Bacon, 2003). The plan also ensures that teacher quality will improve. States must now include in their plans, annual, measurable objectives that each local school district and school must meet in moving toward the goal. Schools must also now account for their progress in annual report cards (U.S. Department of Education, 2003). In addition, there will be high criterion for professional development to ensure that federal funds encourage research-based, efficient practice in the classroom (Bush, 2003). The Department of Education is trying to speed up the movement for further skilled educators. States are going to be reviewing their efforts towards better teachers (Ed teams to help states address teacher quality, 2003). The government is finding ways to be able to test teacher quality. Schools are giving pay initiatives to educators who work above and beyond (Dobbs, 2003). This will hopefully make teachers work and try harder to be better teachers. Faculty involvement is a crucial factor in making students want to be more of a part of the school. There c... ...et, http://www.ala.org Standards are listed and its gives ideas on how technology is helpful in raising standards. Bell, T. (2003). Two-thirds of high schools get ‘left behind’ warnings. Associated Press. Retrieved October 1, 2003 from Academic Universe/Lexis Nexis database. Many schools in New Jersey are receiving information that they did not meet the standards of the federal government. The schools are blaming lack of funding on the performance of their schools. Penalties may occur eventually. Polgreen, L. (2003). New york schools to compete for reading grants. New York Times, Section B, page 3. Retrieved October 1, 2003 from Academic Universe/Lexis Nexis database. New York State will receive $129 million in federal money to pay for more programs to improve literacy. Bush will give more money to low performing schools over the next six years.

Zen Buddhism Essay -- essays research papers

Ch’an and Zen Buddhism Throughout the early years in many East Asian countries, there were many people who were looking for answers to this world’s, and otherworldly, questions. When Gotama became enlightened, and began preaching the practices of Buddhism, it came at such a time when the Han dynasty was collapsing, citizens were tired of Confucianism and looking for a new ideology that they could put there hearts and souls into. Over the years, Buddhism proved to be much more than just a religion; it became a way of life. But over time, the powerful orthodoxy transformed, and many different Buddhist sects emerged. One of the more popular sects, Ch’an, or Zen, Buddhism, has become one of the most influential religions in China and Japan, and is still flourishing today.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the year 220 AD, as the Han dynasty was collapsing, Confucianism, then the state ideology, began to lose its popularity. This, along with the demise of the Han order, set up a situation in which the people of China were hungry for new ideas. There were also many dignitaries within the Chinese government that were looking to gain good political footing in order to ensure staying power. These factors all opened up the gate for Buddhism to enter Chinese society and gain popularity with the Chinese culture.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  At first, Buddhism was transmitted to the different East Asian countries via the Silk Road, but as its domination grew, many people began to interpret their own meaning of the Buddhist doctrines that had been translated from Indian to Chinese. â€Å"By the fourth century AD a much greater number of sutras were available in both north and south China, and the Chinese were beginning to realize the immensity of Buddhist literature.† Buddhism did not reach Japan, however, until October 13th, 538, from the Korean kingdom of Paekche.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  At this point in time, there were two major schools of Buddhism in China. The first form to emerge was known as Hinayana, or Theravada Buddhism. This loosely translated means, â€Å"The Lesser Vehicle.† Theravada Buddhism was mainly concerned with reaching individual enlightenment; how one could rise above the cycle of samsara and reach nirvana. Mahayana Buddhism, or, â€Å"The Great Vehicle,† became the popular form practiced in most of China, Japan and Korea. The followers of Mahayana believed that the entire world could reach salvation, and that those who f... ... other religions. Many of the new centers are combinations of Soto and Rinzai from Japan, Ch’an from China, and Son from Korea. It is still too soon to tell if these new factions throughout our country and Europe will be as much of a success as those of the Eastern Asian countries proved to be; as one Japanese Zen master recently stated, â€Å"The first hundred years are the hardest.† This statement seems to be true so far, with modern Zen’s popularity growing and subsiding. There is an old Zen adage that offers some of the new Zen teachers encouragement: Though the bamboo forest is dense, Water flows through it freely. Many people believe that the water is beginning to make its way through the forest, opening people’s eyes and hearts to the reality of Zen. Japan and China have always remained very similar in most everything that is done within the countries. Borrowing from each other, the two countries have shared quite a lot in common. So it comes as no surprise to learn that Ch’an and Zen Buddhism are very similar. While many people were not sure if these two factions of Buddhism would remain strong in both countries, followers of the two religions have proved the skeptics wrong.

Why Do People Smoke? :: essays research papers

Do you smoke? This is one of the most popular questions today. It seems that with all of the health risks, cancers and breathing problems that it is hard to understand why one would smoke. There is no universal answer to this question. People smoke because of the way cigarettes are advertised and where they are shown. People also smoke because they believe smoking will make them act, look, relax, feel different or to fit in. There are many reasons why people start to smoke, but is it worth it to start? Cigarette smoking causes a variety of life-threatening diseases, including lung cancer, emphysema, and heart disease. An estimated 430,000 deaths each year are directly caused by cigarette smoking. Smoking is responsible for changes in all parts of the body, including the digestive system. This fact can have serious consequences because it is the digestive system that converts foods into the nutrients the body needs to live. Smoking has been shown to have harmful effects on all parts of the digestive system, contributing to such common disorders as heartburn and peptic ulcers. It also increases the risk of Crohn's disease and possibly gallstones. Smoking seems to affect the liver, too, by changing the way it handles drugs and alcohol. In fact, there seems to be enough evidence to stop smoking solely on the basis of digestive distress. Smoking one cigarette immediately raises a person's blood pressure and heart rate and decreases the blood flow to body extremities such as the fingers and toes. Brain and the nervous system activity is stimulated for a short time and then reduced. A smoker may also experience dizziness, nausea, watery eyes and acid in the stomach. Appetite, taste and smell are weakened. Smokers typically experience shortness of breath, persistent coughs, reduced fitness, yellow stains on fingers and teeth and decreased sense of taste and smell. Smokers have more colds and flu than non-smokers and find it harder to recover from minor illnesses. Smoking can cause impotence in men, while women who smoke are less fertile than non-smokers.

The Global Positioning System

The Global Positioning System (GPS), the pioneer in navigation technology, was launched by the government of USA for military purposes to guide the missiles and to move targets. The systems currently consist of 31 satellites (as of March 14, 2018) orbiting twice a day in circular motion at an altitude of 20,200 km. GPS provides precision in computing the velocity, position and time. Although, it is subsidized and maintained by Department of Defense, the civil users across the world use it, at free of cost for various purposes.TechnologyGPS consists of three segments namely, the satellite or the space segment, user segment and the control segment. The space segment consists of satellites, the user segment are the GPS receivers and the control segment helps to monitor the satellite operations. There are five control units to monitor the proper functioning of the satellites, and they are stationed in Krasnosnamensk (Moscow), Schtscholkowo (Moscow), Komsomolsk (Russia), St. Petersburg (Florida) and Ternopil (Ukraine). The location of the user is determined by the line of visibility of four or more satellites and measured by two factors: pseudorange and carrier phase. Usually three satellites points to the coordinates of the user and the fourth is for the user's clock error. The GPS tracking system which is augmented by Low Earth Orbit (LEO) which is orbiting at an altitude closest to the earth's surface provides comprehensive internet access to remote areas even with low intensive users. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones having integrates sensors and GPS receivers uses multicopter technology to fly and capture photos and videos. The drones are capable in identifying objects and avoiding collisions and quickly react to the environmental disturbances like wind, tress, buildings by adjusting their position and movements accordingly. Most importantly, the multicopters have an automatic landing when there is an interruption of signals. UsesWhen people affected by Dementia or Alzheimer's are lost, the GPS tracking device helps to locate the person. The devices are available in various forms to wear them as watch or as pendant around the neck or in the soles of shoes and or can be even attached to the clothing of the patient. Apparently, to avoid restricting such people within nursing homes, it maximised the autonomy and protected them from getting lost. Perhaps, these devices not only help to monitor the location of the person but has fall sensors to alert the caregiver in case of an emergency. The usage of drones in live sports telecasting is an added advantage giving stunning views and movements to the spectators. As they are smaller in size and less noisy, the drones are able to manoeuvre and get some closer shots which helps in decision making in the corresponding sport.Materials and MethodsResultsConclusionOver the years, there will be a paradigm shift for business running with GPS technologies by Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) or Galileo. GLONASS was the system developed by the Soviet Union whereas Galileo by the Europe Union (Rizos, 2003). Although, these satellites differ in orbital planes and the altitude from the earth, they provide accurate navigation to the military and the common man. Today, there are several networking and telecommunication companies like St-Ericsson, Qualcomm and Broadcom to offer devices supporting GPS and GLONASS.

Cartel Theory of Oligopoly Essay

A cartel is defined as a group of firms that gets together to make output and price decisions. The conditions that give rise to an oligopolistic market are also conducive to the formation of a cartel; in particular, cartels tend to arise in markets where there are few firms and each firm has a significant share of the market. In the U.S., cartels are illegal; however, internationally, there are no restrictions on cartel formation. The organization of petroleum-exporting countries (OPEC) is perhaps the best-known example of an international cartel; OPEC members meet regularly to decide how much oil each member of the cartel will be allowed to produce. Oligopolistic firms join a cartel to increase their market power, and members work together to determine jointly the level of output that each member will produce and/or the price that each member will charge. By working together, the cartel members are able to behave like a monopolist. For example, if each firm in an oligopoly sells an undifferentiated product like oil, the demand curve that each firm faces will be horizontal at the market price. If, however, the oil-producing firms form a cartel like OPEC to determine their output and price, they will jointly face a downward-sloping market demand curve, just like a monopolist. In fact, the cartel’s profit-maximizing decision is the same as that of a monopolist, as Figure 1 reveals. The cartel members choose their combined output at the level where their combined marginal revenue equals their combined marginal cost. The cartel price is determined by market demand curve at the level of output chosen by the cartel. The cartel’s profits are equal to the area of the rectangular box labeled abcd in Figure 1 . Note that a cartel, like a monopolist, will choose to produce less output and charge a higher price than would be found in a perfectly competitive market. Once established, cartels are difficult to maintain. The problem is that cartel members will be tempted to cheat on their agreement to limit production. By producing more output than it has agreed to produce, a cartel member can increase its share of the cartel’s profits. Hence, there is a built-in incentive for each cartel member to cheat. Of course, if all members cheated, the cartel would cease to earn monopoly profits, and there would no longer be any incentive for firms to remain in the cartel. The cheating problem has plagued the OPEC cartel as well as other cartels and perhaps explains why so few cartels exist.

Atmospheric Pollution

Firstly, we must question: How does air pollution occur? To understand this, one is required to recognise the earth's surroundings. Life is totally dependant upon the blanket of mixed gases referred to as ‘air' surrounding our planet earth. This atmosphere is, approximately, a five hundred kilometre thick1 composite layer of colourless, odourless gasses that surrounds the earth kept in place by gravitational forces. Due to its intangible form, it is often ignored by man, making it vulnerable and easily damaged (this fact being highlighted by a large number of disasters caused, effectively, by man). The political and scientific debate on the so called ‘Greenhouse Effect' is based on concern over increasing atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide resulting from combustion of fossil fuels and emissions of other ‘Greenhouse Gases' – such as methane (from decomposing waste), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and nitrous oxides (NOx). The activities of homo sapiens have introduced these new chemicals into the atmosphere and disturbed the distribution of its natural constituents. At first, this was limited to the effect of the fireplace, but later, with the greatly expanded usage of coal, these effects grew more acute. And, after the Industrial Revolution, these effects were compounded. As will be made clear, this revolution reached such a point that consequences began to be regarded more than just an inevitable residue of industrialisation and the struggle for economic growth. 1.1 Secondly, in order to intertwine the above information with the issue at hand, it may be necessary to ask oneself, what is environmental law, who is using it and for what purposes? These questions are being posed, as it is imperative to understand the background of the subject, not just for this subtopic in environmental law, but any topic, before entering it in any depth. Environmental law is first and foremost, a combination of primary legislation2, secondary legislation3 (which will be explained in more depth throughout the project), judicial decisions, common law principles, European Community legislation4 – ‘which impose an obligation on members states to enact legislation to give effect to the terms of the Directive'5 which are transposed into national law (as regulations), European treaties and international law (found in treaties, conventions and protocols). 1.2 The foremost function of environmental law is not, as many would imagine, to completely eliminate pollution altogether, but rather, to allow, or balance pollution levels with the gains we, as a society receive from economic growth. This phenomenon, known most frequently as ‘sustainable development' is one that will be referred to time and time again in any environmental law topic. Sustainable development's widely accepted definition is to be found in the 1987 Bruntland Report – â€Å"Our Common Future† (the report for the World Commission on Environmental Development 1987). It states: ‘†¦development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs'. In layman terms, what this report was recommending, or advising the inhabitants of this earth to do, was to use our resources on the planet in such a manner, so as not to jeopardise the way in which it can be used by others in those years after us. A classic example highlighting the necessity of sustainable development is that of the Communist regimes, such in Poland, in which they favoured production and economic development over protection of the environment. In brief, economic growth will lead to changes in the environment. If this growth is not controlled/governed, it can lead to an ugly and dangerous environment. One could be as bold as to say that obviously, the overriding consideration of any commercial enterprise is the maintenance and expansion of profit. To achieve this, one tactic is to minimize costs and this can occur by reviewing methods of disposal of unwanted materials. If discharging these wastes into the atmosphere represents the cheapest way of accomplishing this, then the industry will have a strong inclination to adopt this strategy. The costs of disposal do not disappear when pollution is emitted into the atmosphere, and as has been discovered, the society will eventually end up paying far greater costs. Therefore, it is the governments of each nation must choose limits to benefit both the environment and economic growth. This is often referred to as ‘anthroprecantic'7 and most law is based on it. As it was eventually assessed (with regards to the situation in Poland) that their lack of concern for the environment in which they inhabited was, in effect, the reason for their poor economic advancement. It was also noted that their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was less than those countries who followed the anthroprecantic system. This perhaps is the most precise example of how the environment plays such a big factor on our lives, not just for our health, but also for the development of our respective countries. (After all, it is the aspiration of each and every governing nation to become wealthy and prosperous – economic development is at the heart of each nation). In working towards sustainable development, whether in broad terms or looking at one particular aspect such as air quality, a number of basic concepts must guide action. These concepts have been clearly outlined in a number of governmental papers8. Within the United Kingdom's largely secular and pragmatic societ y, it seems inevitable that pollution is view in an economic context. 2.0 The industrial revolution was the main cause of such concern over the environment. Before this time, ‘environmental law in England and Wales was characterised by a parochial focus on localised pollution problems'9. Such problems date back to the early uses of coal in domestic fires. The production of fumes and particulates from fires caused pulmonary infections and related lung diseases. Notwithstanding this effect, coal continued to be used. In 1661, John Evelyn published his famous work on air pollution in city areas, Fumi Fugiumi, which not only outlined the problems that atmospheric pollution from smoke caused, but also, more importantly, tried to suggest methods by which the problem could be resolved. After this period, much legislation was passed addressing specific problems in this area of law, for example, atmospheric pollution from chemical industries and ‘unclean' modes of transport, water pollution and the regulation of statutory nuisance. 2.1 Very few areas of the United Kingdom are safe from air pollution. Pollution levels exceed Government health standards all over the country on many days every year, even in rural areas. It is difficult to assess exactly the impact of air pollution on public health. However the government itself stated that: â€Å"the Department of Health's latest assessment is that air pollution is at present responsible each year for several thousand advanced deaths; for ten to twenty thousand hospital admissions, and for many thousands of instances of illness, reduced activity, distress and discomfort†10. It was also assessed that short-term episodes cause between 12,700 and 19,500 premature deaths in the UK a year11. And three years prior to this, it was estimated12 that short-term pollution episodes were responsible for between 12,000 and 24,000 deaths per year. These figures have put new pressure on the Government to fully support the Road Traffic Reduction Bill13, from Cynog Dafis MP. Over 400 Members of Parliament are supporting the principles of the Bill, which requires the government to produce a national plan to cut road traffic from 1990 levels by 5% by the year 2005 and 10% by the year 2010. As can be imagined, road transport is a major source of air pollution in the UK. Five of the key pollutants are: particulates (fine dust and soot particles – PM), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), benzene and hydrocarbons (HCs). ‘After more than half a century of under-investment in Britain, roads are the most congested in Europe'14. However, knowing that transport is the cornerstone of modern society, yet it is responsible for poor air quality in many urban centres around the world, what is there that can be done about its damaging effect on our environment? There are increasing concerns about the impact of traffic exhaust emissions on the health of citizens who are exposed to the high concentrations of pollutants, plus the wider global implications. Legislation is helping clean up vehicles and fuel, but there is a significant time lag while the vehicle stock is being replaced. In the interim, mechanisms could to be introduced that accelerate the replacement of vehicles or improve the existing stock. 2.2 In the UK such a concept has taken the form of Low Emission Zones, which aim to restrict the use of the most polluting vehicles from specific areas in an urban environment. In Sweden, a similar concept has been in operation since 1996 whereby environmental standards are specified for heavy vehicles entering the central area of the main cities. The government has also recently set health standards for eight key pollutants. For these pollutants it has also set policy targets to be reached by the year 2005. Meeting these targets will need action locally, nationally and internationally. The Environment Act 1995 set up a system known as Local Air Quality Management through which local authorities will play a major part in reducing pollution levels. 2.3 If we are to meet the Government's targets for air pollution, then pollution from traffic must be cut drastically. There are two main ways to do this: Traffic reduction: cutting the volume of traffic on the roads. A number of environmental organisations are supporting the Road Traffic Reduction Act (which is now law) and the Road Traffic Reduction (UK Targets) Bill. This Bill, which is currently in Parliament as a Private Members Bill, aims to cut traffic levels nationally by 5% by 2005 and 10% by 2010. Greener cars: making sure that cars pollute as little as is possible. This is achieved through tightening engine technology and fuel quality standards. These standards are set at a European level15. 2.4 Although the above issues are seemingly simple, everyone does not welcome the manner in which they will be implemented. For example, There are a huge number in opposition to the government increasing taxes on fuel, and in one particular instance, it was stated by a former chairman of a lobbying institution, that ‘if Gordon Brown increases his fuel taxes, he will see the same situation as he saw in Autumn 2000' [where there was a great number of protests and havoc was caused around Britain]16 This threat was reinforced by a totally independent party, namely the Petrol Retailers Association, who warned ‘if taxes on motor fuels are increased, petrol forecourts will close'17. With statistics and threats such as those provided, it is difficult to advise what the government can do to aid the situation. The Liberal Democrat party also showed its urgency when it released a statement highlighting its concern that the Chancellor of the Exchequer must freeze fuel taxes in real terms for the lifetime of this Parliament. The party also called for a ‘sliding scale' of car tax emissions, so that consumers with polluting vehicles paying higher duties, and those with the most environmentally friendly, paying nothing18. And, in support of this plea, it was stated, by The Confederation of British Industry, that they would be ‘surprised and disappointed if there was a real increase in fuel duties' 2.5 The Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, who is behind many of the more noticeable environmental issues with regards to London stated in his manifesto that he aims to ‘put the environment at the heart of London government and provide for comprehensive environmental assessment and monitoring of all strategies which the Mayor is required to produce'19. In addition to this, the Mayor said that he will ‘aim to reduce road traffic by 15% by 2010'20. In favour of this aim, recent figures suggest that the UK's emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are being reduced21 and in addition, greenhouse gases are also being reduced. However, as stated previously, with the correction of specific pollution problems, comes an uplift of other hazards, such as in this case, the increase in carbon dioxide emissions and recent developments in the electricity market suggest problematic situations. 3.0 All aspects of environmental law have a domestic, European and international dimension to them. For example, if one lives in a country where there are dangerous waste materials being transported thorough, the government of transporting town will ensure that the standard of safety provided is of a standard expected on a international level. These precautions must be taken in any environmental situation as will be discovered through this assignment. The influence of international law on the regulation of air pollution has been significant. This may be in recognition of the fact that many of the problems caused by air pollution can have impacts across a large geographical area (and in many cases cause seriously global effects). There have been a number of areas where international law has helped to shape policies and rules on both a domestic and European level. Therefore, with regards to our particular topic, atmospheric pollution in England is regulated, not only by domestic bodies, but moreover, on a European and global level. The problems related to air pollution are by no means a new phenomenon. The prohibitions on certain activities producing smoke are probably the first instances of environment pollution legislation in the United Kingdom, and legislation dates back to 1863 with the Alkali Act, Public Health Act 1875 and 1936, Public Health (Smoke Abatement) Act 1926 and the Clean Air Act (CAA) 1956. The first modern piece of legislation combating air pollution, namely the Alkali Act, represented the culmination of a long period of dissatisfaction with environmental conditions, especially in London. For example, in 1819, an M.P had written, â€Å"[T]he volumes of smoke which issues from the furnaces on every side of the river Thames opposite my own house actually blacken every flower I have in my own garden in Whitehall†22 Until the CAA 1956 was introduced, the government of Britain has had a large amount of difficulty in tackling the problems of atmospheric pollution. Nowadays, the 3 main pollution controls in Britain (which will be clearly explained in detail in), are the Integrated Pollution Control (IPC)23 and Integrated Pollution and Control (IPPC), the Clean Air Act (CAA)24 1993 (a consolidation of the CAA 1956 and CAA 1968), and the controls relating to vehicle emissions. In addition to these, the Environmental Act 1995 25(EA 1995) naturally plays a large role, as it does in all environmental issues. 3.1 Having discussed the topic of environmental law, recapped on the history of atmospheric pollution, and established that there is a need for change, it is now necessary to discuss and evaluate the measures and changes which have been made, by domestic, European and international governments along with a vast number of very influential pressure groups. The main three are (mentioned in section ): a) The Integrated Pollution Control (IPC)26 and Integrated Pollution and Control (IPPC) license based controls relating to a range of highly polluting industries detailed in part1 of the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990 and the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA) 1999. b) The criminal sanction based controls over the emission of smoke and other particulate matter from chimneys and furnaces detailed in the Clean Air Act (CAA) 1993. c) Controls relating to vehicle emissions. These controls encompass engine efficiency standards, the chemical composition of fuels, the mandatory use of catalytic converters, eco-taxes, price differentials between different types of fuel and the use of traffic management powers.27. The aforementioned controls are an enhancement made by the Environmental Act 1995. 3.2 The CAA 1993 concentrates on the control of emissions on smoke, dust and grit by means of criminal offences. The main offences are, emissions of dark smoke – from a chimney or from industrial premises, emissions of dust and grit from non-domestic furnaces, emissions of smoke from a chimney in a ‘Smoke Control Area' and various other offences relating to the installation of furnaces. Having stated earlier, atmospheric pollution is not merely a domestic issue, the involvement of Europe is particularly highlighted with the great many directives established. Since 1993, when the Maastricht Treaty on the European Union (EU) reformed the Treaty of Rome, Articles 130r – 130t of the EC Treaty have provided the legal basis for Community environmental law. Specifically, under Article 130r (2), environmental policy is guided by four principles: the precautionary, the polluter-pays principle, the integration principle, and the source principle. Moreover, the aforementioned Article further provides that a directive or regulation may include a ‘safeguard clause', which allows Member States to take any appropriate measure to protect the environment in case of emergency28. European Community (EC) measures to curb air pollution can be divided into different categories. Emissions from industrial plants – whereby the most important directive is the Large Combustion Plant Directive (88/609/EEC). In addition to this, Directives 89/369/EEC (dealing with emissions from incineration plants, and Directive 96/61/EC (IPPC) which was implemented into national law in 1999 are the most important directives regarding Emissions from industrial plants. Another category is that of Air pollution affecting the ozone layer and global warming in which EC regulations 3322/88, 591/91 and 549/91 which have banned CFCs and hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs), respectively. Air quality standards have been inputted in Air Quality Framework Directives (96/62/EC) and 99/30/EC. As can be seen, the EC has implemented a large number of directives, however, what is not apparent from the information given, is which have been implemented in British national law. The EC also concentrates on vehicle emission standards, product quality standards and atmospheric pollution and waste reduction29. 4.0 As an evaluation, it is necessary to view the opinions and publications of specialised bodies that thrive to ever improve the environment, such as Green Peace and Friends of the Earth. However, when consulting such sources, one is required to acknowledging the great possibilities of biasness, in order to assess the contribution these measures and policies have made on the atmospheric pollution levels in Britain. Regarding one particular publication issued by Friends of the Earth, it was stated, that by using government data and methods to calculate an Air Quality Indicator for 1999 established that air quality is still ‘very poor'. The calculation shows, for key monitoring sites around Britain, the average number of days on which air pollution levels were above the Government's air quality standard. John Prescott called it a â€Å"key quality of life indicator†. It was also stated that road traffic is the major source of air pollution in the UK, which is responsible for 48% of UK emissions of nitrogen dioxide, 26% of particles, 2% of sulphur dioxide and 74% of carbon monoxide. Ozone is a secondary pollutant, produced by reactions between nitrogen dioxide and hydrocarbons. Road traffic is responsible for 38% of UK emissions of hydrocarbons. In this report, it was stated that the share of pollution produced by road traffic would be significantly higher in towns and cities. 4.1 The (New) Labour government took office in 1997 promising to be â€Å"the first truly green Government ever† and to put â€Å"concern for the environment at the heart of policy making†. There have been real achievements. In Labour's first term, both Tony Blair and John Prescott led international efforts to agree the Kyoto treaty to fight climate change. Labour committed the UK to cut emissions of carbon dioxide, the most significant climate changing gas, by 20% by 2010. Despite Tony Blair's very close relationship with the United States, he is still prepared to criticise President Bush for reneging on this treaty and attempting to undermine support for it from other states. Gordon Brown overcame considerable hostility from the business lobby to introduce the Climate Levy, which has begun to give industry clear incentives to cut emissions. Unfortunately, this is where achievements tend to become more difficult to establish. Early in Labour's first term, Chancellor Gordon Brown took important steps to implement the basic principle of green taxation, that tax should be raised on polluting and environmentally destructive behaviour, with the revenues used to pay for green initiatives and to cut taxes on employment. But New Labour has now simply surrendered to the fuel tax protestors, and abandoned the process of gradually raising fuel duty to ensure that the cost of motoring more accurately reflects the environmental damage it causes. And in his last Budget, Brown put employers' National Insurance contributions back up again, increasing the cost of labour and discouraging job creation.30 4.2 Ultimately, it appears that any capitalist economy must face the full scale of any atmospheric pollution problem presented by their production. As stated in 1.2, a capitalist economy focuses on survival of the fittest to ensure its own self preservation. Eventually, if the exhaustion of natural resources is approached, a capitalist economy will have to modify it's own behaviour to guarantee it's own survival, for it requires these resources to continue it's existence. It appears as though we are, environmentally, living in a vicious circle, whereby our preventative measures are preventing one particular problem, but at the same time, causing a problem of a different nature. It is only when that problem becomes apparent to public knowledge that it begins to be tackled. It appears, from methods undertaken before, for the protection of the environment that we may be preventing the condition of our earth from deteriorating to such a dismal point. Our structural interventions in capitalist economy do not appear without merit, albeit sometimes unnoticeable. 4.3 It was stated by Al Gore31 in his book ‘ Earth in the Balance': †Modern industrial civilisation is colliding violently with our planet's ecological system.' We inherited Eden and are leaving our children a depleted rubbish tip'32. However, on a global scale, this appears not to be, in my opinion, the case. Having researched this project for a number of months, one can honestly believe that environmentally, things are getting better. Although issues are still to be found on a daily basis in any newspaper one picks up, the fact remains that things are getting better – or are getting worse, at a slower rate than they were previously. 4.3 ‘Air pollution is not a new phenomenon that has been getting worse and worse, but an old phenomenon that has been getting better and better, leaving London cleaner than it has been since the Middle Ages.'33 Having evaluated governmental policies and researched air pollution, foremost in Britain, one would hope that this statement can now be conclusively agree, or disagreed with. Evidently, the system in which the British government takes actions often referred to as the ‘sectoral approach'34 means that whilst our nation is tackling one particular aspect of pollution, another problem would shift to another sector. ‘Britain has a problem with embarking upon the environmental issue on the whole'35. Therefore, in a brief summary of the above conclusions, it can be said that the environmental issues themselves are not seemingly the problem. Moreover, it is the funding of the implementation that causes the problems. Environmental issues are being discovered and publicised weekly. If the nation were to consider only issues relating to the environment (which it seems the Green Party and other such organisation are aiming for), there would be no advancement in other fields. Therefore, the question of sustainable development is highlighted again. How much should a nation consider the state of the environment, when clearly it needs to concentrate on the economy? As everyone is aware, the government obtains most of it's funding from taxes. If they were to continuously tax the nation, then no one would vote for them. Therefore, they have to bind their policies with one another and establish a sustainable method in which to provide both for the present, and the growing nation. Consequently, on the whole, the implementation of policies and legislation appear to be having a generally good effect on the atmospheric pollution level in Britain. One question remains, however, and that is, for how long will the preventative principle prevail, and will be sufficient in curbing an environmental hazard? In essence, it appears as though sustainable development is the mainframe of environmental and political ideology, and that government policy, and legislative implementation is delivering a sound task in the   field of atmospheric pollution in maintaining sustainable development. After all, it must be remembered, that no organisation in this world is flawless in its methods, and with it come faults, as is evident with the topic of atmospheric pollution. On the whole, policy and legislation appear to be achieving the ever fervent goal of sustainability.