Buddhism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 5

Buddhism - Essay Example As the essay declares the religion of Buddhism is associated to the Hinduism religion. Both of them believe in the concept of escaping from samsara also referred to as rebirth. A lot of people believe that Buddhism is in some way integrated within Hinduism. The religion of Buddhism was created when a young prince escaped from a life that was seen as fake. He did so in order to find reality. He decided to become the Buddha by being a mediator instead of a king. People believe that the religion of Buddhism does not allow its monks to get married, eat meat, or drink alcohol, but in reality this is not true. From the paper it is clear Zen Buddhism is a branch of Buddhism whose leader is the Buddha which them stands for emptiness. A lot of people believe the Zen Buddhism has a lot of similarities with Christianity, but there also many differences between both religions. Christians believe that God rules this world and each person has a soul that will either be send to heaven or earth upon death. Buddhism differs in that the followers of this religion do not believe in the existence of God, thus people can be free from samsara. They believe that through samsara or nirvana their souls escape from the rebirth cycle. Emptiness of nature is accomplished through religion. The Zen Buddhism religion started in China around 100 B.C. For Chinese people emptiness is reached through celibacy, solitary mediation, renunciation, and monasticism. The religion was not popular before, but it spread across Japan and China.

The prosecution of James Phang Wah and Jackie Hoo Choon Cheat Essay

The prosecution of James Phang Wah and Jackie Hoo Choon Cheat directors of an insolvent company, Sunshine Empire - Essay Example This paper illustrates that the firm swindled investors who bought lifestyle packages. The firm also promised investors returns which were not from genuine profits but were actually funds recycled from new members joining the scheme. These two scenarios constituted criminal law. Another case is where Phang’s wife was paid a commission of nearly 950,000 US dollars for her work as the company’s group sales director, a job she never had or did. Sunshine empire was a corporation. Therefore all its operations were governed by the corporations’ law that existed. Some of the requirements of this law are proper maintenance of books of accounts. This company never kept proper books of account. On the other hand, a company is normally formed with the sole object of not dealing in illegal trade. The company also breached this by processing uncensored and obscene films. All these cases led to the breach of corporations’ law. The company is being wound up. Therefore, t he Commercial affairs department has seized about twenty-one million US dollars and will establish how these funds should be disbursed to the firm’s creditors. This constitutes property law. The directors’ intention of selling 26,000 packages and earning 180, 000 US dollars was unacceptable. They knew that the scheme would fail. An important aspect of Law of contract is ‘acting in good faith.’ The directors breached this provision. On the other hand, Phang’s wife is also being fined for falsifying payment vouchers. This constituted a breach of contract law. How the Law helps in the following Situations Allows people to Organize and Plan Law in itself can help people organize and plan their future actions. In the case of Sunshine Empire, investors are applying the provision of the law to plan their future actions. This is evidenced by the fact that they buy packages from Sunshine Empire with the hope that they will get higher returns. There was a ris k though with such investment as the company could collapse in the future leading to heavy losses to investors; and true to this, the company eventually went under receivership. How Law Encourages or discourages Particular activities Law can act to encourage or discourage certain activities. The prosecution of directors is a common example where the law doe not permit swindling of investors money through fraudulent activities. The directors defrauded the public of their through false investment activities, hence had to pay for their illegal acts (Howitt, p68). The law also acts to encourage compensation in cases of losses being suffered by a given party to a contract. This is seen when the commercial affairs department of company sets aside money to disburse to the firm’s creditors. How Law Creates Rights and Duties that can be enforced The contract between Sunshine Empire and its investors is a clear indication of a situation where law can create rights and duties which can be enforced. The investors invest their funds in the hope of higher returns in the future. The company gets wound up and the Commercial Affairs Department sets aside funds to settle creditors’ claims. By settling the creditors claim, a right of compensation in case of damages or loss is being enforced. How Law Provides remedies when Rights are interfered with or duties are not discharged In this case, creditors are being given funds set aside to cover for their losses as the company goes into liquidation. This clearly shows how law can be used to provide remedy in case of interference with somebody’s rights or where duties in a contract are not fully discharged. Why it is Important to know the law in the circumstances described in the Media report Members of the public at large should know the

An Analysis Of Global Alliances

An Analysis Of Global Alliances As a matter of survival, airlines within the current environment are constantly reviewing and altering their strategies. An important component of any airlines strategy to remain viable and maintain competitive advantage in todays setting is to pool resources and share risk, known as an alliance. A broad definition of an alliance that occurs in the aviation industry is the collaboration between two or more firms that retain their autonomy during the course of their relationship (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004). To that end, there are certain variations of airline alliance in vogue today, in particular the Global Airline Alliance. Starting with a synopsis and identification of these alliance groups, the discussion will move to a selection and analysis of benefits and shortcomings that can be associated with global alliances from a business and consumer perspective. From here, an appreciation will be gained of the major airline alliances and typical rationale of alliance strategies. Currently, the most popular forms of coalition in the airline business are the non-equity marketing alliances known as Airline Alliance Groups (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004) or Global Multicarrier Alliances (Cools Roos, 2005). At the present time, the main global multicarrier alliance networks are Star Alliance, One World, and Skyteam (UBM, 2010). These alliances are predominantly a massive global network of multilateral codesharing and joint resource Air Service Agreements (ASAs) between carriers. This allows a central point of contact for the passenger to ensure a convenient, smooth and efficient worldwide travel experience (Star Alliance, 1997). Although individual airlines are aligned under the umbrella of a single corporate entity, distinct airline brand identities and cultures are retained. These alliances have set out to revolutionise seamless air travel for the international passenger from hub to hub and beyond. Additionally, the synergies created were only possible due to ast ute governance of previously implausible collaboration. To that end, airline conglomerates now understand The best way to generate real business growth and expansion is by forging the appropriate strategic partnerships (Borovich Yeheskel, 2001). From an airline business perspective, membership in a global alliance has one distinct, instantaneous and strategic advantage. Almost overnight, all member airlines geographic route structures will have expanded without costly capital investment in infrastructure and assets. This allows airlines to service routes that were previously deemed non-profitable or inaccessible, albeit on other alliance members aircraft. This complementary alliance (Oum Park, 1997, as cited in Chen Ross, 2000, p. 328) has the flow on effect of generating untapped markets within the domestic environment and yielding higher load factors for all alliance members aircraft operations. Henceforth, this produces larger revenues which in turn diminishes overhead costs and maintains more efficient airlines by lowering unit cost base (Doganis 2001, p. 76). While this contributes to diversification and larger profit margins for collaborating airlines, the traveller can be confident airfare cost will remain relativel y reasonable assuming competition remains viable on any given route. This is a beneficial outcome for all involved, both airline businesses and the consumer. A comparable example where alliances between two airlines operating on the same route is however, considered anti-competitive (Chen Ross, 2000, p 328). Here the competing airlines could strike a codeshare accord, typically after a tenuously long and protracted battle attempting to gain market share. This is routinely known as a parallel alliance (Oum Park 1996, p. 190), however this is unfortunately likely to result in cartel type price fixing. This form of alliance generally benefits the airlines as it narrows competition and has a propensity to create a higher demand for a particular service, hence higher airfares (Chen Ross, 2000, p 328). Conversely, the pre-alliance scenario utilising capacity dumping (NZ Parliament, 2006), where supply exceeds demand, only profits the consumer with ridiculously low and unsustainable airfares. This invariably serves to strengthen the dominant market leaders position by financially eliminating the competition in the long term. These types of al liance are inherent of predatory behaviour with very little consumer benefit and require antitrust immunity (Bilotkach, 2005, p. 168). An example of this type of arrangement within the global alliance networks does exist, although on the exceedingly competitive North Atlantic route between Lufthansa and United Airlines (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004, p. 23). While codesharing is one weapon with which to condense costs, create better margins and maintain a reasonably priced service, it is not the only resource available to benefit allying partners and the consumer. One only needs to visit any of the global airline networks websites to see a large scale joint marketing experience. Consequently, Extensive market presence plays an essential role in major airlines plans for survival and prosperity (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004, p. 113), and this influence is an effective tool when multiple powerful brands are combined. For the smaller airlines within the alliance groups, association with some of the mega-carriers alone is a sufficient marketing device to increase recognition and augment passenger numbers. This is simply a case of if passengers do not find you, they will not fly you (Bammer, 2000, as cited in Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004, p. 121). For the bigger carriers in the group, enhanced economies of scale (Doganis, 2001, p. 76), scope and d ensity (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004, p. 39) beckon, to provide growth quickly while mitigating a host of regulatory and economic barriers. This coincides with the global alliance concept To contribute to the long-term profitability of its members beyond their individual capabilities (Star Alliance, 2010, p. 6). Another advantage of such extensive market sway is the collective consumable and asset purchasing power. Doganis states, the Star Alliance group is estimated to save between five to seven percent each year with this strategy (2001, p. 78). In contrast, these combined marketing regimens can be inflexible and force a loss of individual brand identity. As the global alliance brand builds its own characteristics, it will be perceived by the customer to deliver a certain expectation, and if not all of the alliance members fit the model, they may be forced to compromise their own identities to conform, or risk being extricated. This is known as the domino effect (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004, p. 17). The airlines are not the sole profiteer from this vast marketing onslaught. Customer satisfaction, retention and relationship quality is the target of any marketing strategy, and with immensely large global brands and reputations at risk, standards will always be under scrutiny. The consumer perception of these alliance groups is that of a seal of quality (Kleymann Seristà ¶, 2004, p. 39), and all members are logically required to exact some consistency over the service spectrum. To that end, the global alliance groups have combined value adding resources to meet or exceed the expectations of the high value international traveller (Star Alliance, 2010, p. 6). Some pertinent examples are: priority check-in, lounge access, additional baggage allowances, priority boarding, global ticketing, common terminals and priority baggage handling. As aforementioned, the consistency and variation with which these additional benefits are delivered can provide a potential drawback. Products vary f rom brand to brand, for example; Air New Zealand has a premium economy seat (Star Alliance, 1997), of which not all airlines utilise. A customer that purchases this seat flying from New Zealand to Germany with alliance codeshare partner Lufthansa (McCaw, 2010), would in all likelihood be downgraded to an economy seat from England or the United States. Furthermore, differing cultures can also play a role with service delivery. Once again, the customer flying from New Zealand to Germany may enjoy the relaxed Kiwi attitude, but may be overwhelmed by the clinical and formal German approach, or vice versa. Henceforth, Kleymann and Seristà ¶ suggest successful brand image and customer fulfilment is particularly relevant to quality and consistency of service (2004, p. 121). Global alliances offer many joint benefits to consumers from airlines prospering within their own niche, which could not be possible without reliance on international partners. While the phenomenon of globalisation is a reality and people seek to condense and simplify work, time and travel experiences, global airline alliances fit the mould as a reaction to seek balance. At present, the rules of international aviation preserve sovereignty and do not endorse a truly competitive environment. While grandfathering provisions of landing rights at major airports and governmental influence in survivability of flag carriers ensues, the only room for growth from independents is to collude. At this point in time, global alliances serve the needs of both consumers and airline businesses. As with every decision, there are good and bad consequences and not all choices will gratify everyone. Global alliances endeavour to satisfy the majority, while sustaining the future of the alliance members to provide a useful service. Until all nations relax rules around freedoms of the air and airline foreign ownership, so as to furnish a genuine open skies policy, these mega-conglomerates will flourish. Word Count: 1343

Blending Face-to-Face and Distance Learning Methods in Adult and Career-Technical Education :: Learning Adult Education Essays

Blending Face-to-Face and Distance Learning Methods in Adult and Career-Technical Education Strengths and Limitations of the Two Methods In theory, the advantages of face-to-face and distance learning methods complement each other (Leung and Tran 2000). In classroom learning, face-to-face contact both in and out of class can help motivate and involve students; active learning can engage students in thinking and interaction through questioning, discussion, small-group presentation, role play, and case studies. In distance learning via ICT, technology makes material available anytime and anywhere; multimedia (e.g., video and audio) can engage multiple brain channels; graphics can help understanding of complex concepts; interactive activities can involve students in dynamic learning through a cycle of questions/answers/feedback; discussion and work groups allow students to evaluate their performance against that of peers. It is important to note, however, that those two sets of complementary advantages are sometimes only theoretical (Cutshall 2002; McKavanagh et al. 2002). In practice, both face-to-face and ICT distance programs often rely on transmissionist, teacher-centered provision of information rather than on interactive, student-centered construction of knowledge; students may end up receiving passively both online and in the classroom. Nevertheless, two themes clearly emerge as the most frequently cited strengths: the personal contact allowed by face-to-face classroom learning and the flexibility allowed by distance learning. An interesting wrinkle is that different distance learning methods can offer different combinations of personal contact and flexibility (Cutshall 2002; McKavanagh et al. 2002; Miller and Webster 1997; Perraton 1991; Zirkle 2002). In synchronous distance methods (e.g., satellite TV, audioconferencing, videoconferencing, live Internet chat), learners and/or instructors are all engaged in the activity at the same time, restricting flexibility; flexibility is further restricted by methods like audioconferencing or videoconferencing in which participants must be at a physical location with necessary technology and hook-ups. However, asynchronous methods allow learners and instructors to participate at different times. Learners can listen to audiotapes, view videotapes, check e-mail, log on to a threaded discussion, or visit webpages anytime; the necessary technology is widely—although not universally—available. The ultimate in flexibility is the "anytime anywhere" availabili ty of a web-based course or course components. It may be surprising that studies examining the connection between learning style and success among distance learning students yield mixed results. Aragon, Johnson, and Shaik (2000) found no correlation between learning style preference and course grade among online adult students in advanced technology education, in spite of differences in learning style preferences between online and face-to-face students enrolled in the program. Blending Face-to-Face and Distance Learning Methods in Adult and Career-Technical Education :: Learning Adult Education Essays Blending Face-to-Face and Distance Learning Methods in Adult and Career-Technical Education Strengths and Limitations of the Two Methods In theory, the advantages of face-to-face and distance learning methods complement each other (Leung and Tran 2000). In classroom learning, face-to-face contact both in and out of class can help motivate and involve students; active learning can engage students in thinking and interaction through questioning, discussion, small-group presentation, role play, and case studies. In distance learning via ICT, technology makes material available anytime and anywhere; multimedia (e.g., video and audio) can engage multiple brain channels; graphics can help understanding of complex concepts; interactive activities can involve students in dynamic learning through a cycle of questions/answers/feedback; discussion and work groups allow students to evaluate their performance against that of peers. It is important to note, however, that those two sets of complementary advantages are sometimes only theoretical (Cutshall 2002; McKavanagh et al. 2002). In practice, both face-to-face and ICT distance programs often rely on transmissionist, teacher-centered provision of information rather than on interactive, student-centered construction of knowledge; students may end up receiving passively both online and in the classroom. Nevertheless, two themes clearly emerge as the most frequently cited strengths: the personal contact allowed by face-to-face classroom learning and the flexibility allowed by distance learning. An interesting wrinkle is that different distance learning methods can offer different combinations of personal contact and flexibility (Cutshall 2002; McKavanagh et al. 2002; Miller and Webster 1997; Perraton 1991; Zirkle 2002). In synchronous distance methods (e.g., satellite TV, audioconferencing, videoconferencing, live Internet chat), learners and/or instructors are all engaged in the activity at the same time, restricting flexibility; flexibility is further restricted by methods like audioconferencing or videoconferencing in which participants must be at a physical location with necessary technology and hook-ups. However, asynchronous methods allow learners and instructors to participate at different times. Learners can listen to audiotapes, view videotapes, check e-mail, log on to a threaded discussion, or visit webpages anytime; the necessary technology is widely—although not universally—available. The ultimate in flexibility is the "anytime anywhere" availabili ty of a web-based course or course components. It may be surprising that studies examining the connection between learning style and success among distance learning students yield mixed results. Aragon, Johnson, and Shaik (2000) found no correlation between learning style preference and course grade among online adult students in advanced technology education, in spite of differences in learning style preferences between online and face-to-face students enrolled in the program.

Hemmingway: Catherine as a Code Hero

Catherine: A Manipulative Caretaker In A Farewell to Arms, Frederic Henry is characterized initially by a sort of detachment from life-though well-disciplined and friendly, he feels as if he has nothing to do with the war. These feelings of detachment are pushed away when Henry falls in love with Catherine and begins to realize the hostile nature of the world. In this way, Henry serves the function of a character that becomes initiated in Hemingway's philosophy of an indifferent universe and man's struggle against it. Due to the untimely death of a fiance previous to the events of this book, Catherine is initiated into Hemingway's philosophy, and exemplifies the traits of the Hemingway  code hero  throughout the novel. She is characterized primarily by her disregard for  social conventions  as well as an unfaltering devotion to Henry. Catherine is defined as a code hero because of her honor, courage, and endurance in pain. Honor is defined as having a keen sense of ethical conduct. For Catherine, the ethical conduct is keeping Henry happy, and in doing so, she is keeping herself happy. At first glance, Catherine Barkley appears to be an example of any man’s fantasy girl. She appears as a dull character that asks nothing of Henry and is only there to make him happy. Because of this, it is said that Catherine's character is demeaning to women. Catherine Barkley's basic approach to her relationship with Frederic shows her as being inferior. She appears to gladly accept a lower role in her relationship with Frederic. â€Å"I'll do what you want and say what you want,† she tells him, â€Å"and then I'll be a great success, won't I† (Hemmingway105). Her idea of a successful relationship, and of happiness, is based on making Frederic happy no matter what she has to do. Like the code hero, she handles conflicting needs with grace, giving to both, but shorting none. She uses Henry as a template to fulfill her need for her dead fiance. And because Henry is characterized as unemotional, it is effortless for her to use him as a template to mold him into the man she longs for. She enters the war as a nurse the same time her fiance enters as a soldier, but because he dies she longs for a clutch to keep track of reality. She is always surrounded by wounded soldiers, which does not help her cope with the death of her fiance until Henry comes into her life. His unemotional attitude towards the world provides her with the perfect opportunity bring her fiance back to life—in her mind. In a conversation with Henry, Catherine forces words into his mouth, â€Å"Say, ‘I’ve come back to Catherine in the night’† (30). Henry instinctually repeats as she says without ever questioning her. He even says, â€Å"I thought she was probably a little crazy†¦I did not care what I was getting into† (30). Even though he acknowledges the fact that she might be slightly deranged, he accepts her because he the type of man to gamble. In another instance, Catherine reassures herself that her love will not abandon her again. â€Å"You’re so lovely and sweet. You wouldn’t go away in the night, would you? † (197). Because she loses her love once already, she is unwilling to allow that to happen again. Also, by loving Henry, she saves her from going crazy with grief. When everything is exploding all around them, everything takes on more urgency. In her mind, as well as his, it is normal that she feels so intensely for Henry. And she doesn’t fall apart without him when they are separated, but just keeps on trucking and hoping. She does not need  Henry for anything but love. Although, on the surface, Catherine seems to be the perfect male fantasy, she is in fact quite the opposite. In addition to her honorable acts, she displays courage. Even Ernest Lockridge, author of â€Å"Faithful in Her Fashion: Catherine Barkley, the Invisible Hemingway Heroine† says, â€Å"Catherine frequently displays wit, intelligence, cool irony, and, facing death, she displays dignity and courage—qualities that seems contradictory to the fawning, submissive Catherine† (Lockridge 172). Hemmingway portrays courage in Catherine when she tries to console Henry about her death. â€Å"I’m not brave anymore, darling. I’m all broken. They’ve broken me. I know it now† (Hemmingway 323). Catherine is clearly in fear of death, but she is not trying to run or hide from it. She faces death and tries to console Henry by telling him she is not going to die. After undergoing a caesarian section and giving birth to a stillborn baby boy, Catherine proves just how brave she is. Though she knows she is dying, she still has the dignity and strength to accept such a fate. In face, she finds herself trying to comfort her distraught lover once again. With death approaching, Catherine’s final words to Frederic Henry suggest she possesses some sense or understanding of her own mortality and of what is soon to come. She says, â€Å"I’m not a bit afraid. It’s just a dirty trick† (331). The â€Å"it† Catherine refers to is presumably death, but in fact, the indefinite may be referring to life, a process Catherine views as a â€Å"rotten game† (31), since so much about it is left to chance and death is always the end. Catherine stood brave in the face of a battle with her own body. Like the soldiers, neither her bravery, nor Henry’s love, could save her from death. In Henry’s mind, the death of the soldiers and the death of Catherine are parallel tragedies, which cannot be separated from each other. By weaving the tragedies together, he memorializes both such tragedies, and can perhaps hope to heal a bit of his pain. Critics may argue that Catherine is a clutch for Henry to cope with war, but clearly throughout the novel, Henry is more attached to her than she is to him. Frederic says, â€Å"When I saw her, I was in love with her. Everything turned over inside of me† (Hemmingway 91). He is truly falling in love with her and who she is, but she, on the other hand only loves him for being alive. He is, in fact, her tool to endure the emotional pain for the loss of her fiance. Once again Ernest Lockridge says, â€Å"To preserve her fantasy, Catherine strives to isolate the relationship from others. She speaks Frederic Henry’s name only once†¦by worrying that people will suspect an affair†¦she will not marry Frederic Henry† (Lockridge 174). When Frederic first meets her she laments that she did not marry her fiance before he died. She says that they were engaged for eight years and that they grew up together. She tells Frederic she did not marry her fiance because she thought that it would trap him. She feels she will do the same to Henry. Frederic Henry does want to be married but Catherine thinks this would keep them from being together during the war. When he pressures her, she says, â€Å"We’re really married. I couldn’t be any more married. † She keeps up this attitude until near the end of her pregnancy, when she says, â€Å"I suppose if we have this child, we should really get married† (Hemmingway 115). Frederic says, â€Å"Let’s get married now† (293). But Catherine refuses again and claims to want to wait until after the baby is born. She wants the commitment of marriage, but is very suspicious of it as an institution. Also, Catherine, in her mind, envisions Henry as her dead fiance, so to her she is still completely faithful but in reality, she is with a man that she has not truly come to know. She is at a fragile state where if she acknowledges the death of her fiance, she will be shattered. Her mechanism of coping with the pain of losing a loved one is by replacing him with another body but not in spirit. On a physical sense, she endures pain by being away from Henry as well as the occurrence where she is in labor. While in labor, Catherine is in pain, but she is telling Henry to eat so he is not harmed from hunger. She says, â€Å"That was a very big one. Don’t you worry, darling. You go away. Go have another breakfast† (317). Even with painful contractions, she is more concerned with Henry’s appetite than her own comfort. Catherine has a high endurance for pain, both emotionally and physically. She creates coping mechanisms for both so that she is able to live in reality without seeming insane. Traditionally, Hemingway's heroes are male, and to interpret Catherine as a code hero was inadmissible. Catherine was thought as an undeveloped character in the novel, merely an idealized projection of male desire. Upon closer examination, however, Catherine does share characteristics of the code hero. Hemingway's code hero is a skilled professional. Catherine is a nurse who is skilled in her profession. The code hero lives with courage in a dangerous world. Catherine demonstrates courage when she and Frederic row across the lake to escape into Switzerland, a very dangerous feat, and especially when she tries to deliver their baby, finally realizing that she will die. The code hero also lives in a random universe, but chooses to control himself and endure reality. Catherine cannot control events when she goes into labor, but she endures the pain with dignity until her death. Catherine endures in other ways, as well. She experiences the death of a fiance and faces great fear as an unmarried nurse when she learns she is pregnant. Throughout all of these times, however, Catherine does not feel sorry for herself, and she does not break. Like a code hero, she endures. Works Cited Hemingway, Ernest. A Farewell to Arms. New York: Scribner, 2003. Print. Lockridge, Ernest. â€Å"Faithful in Her Fashion: Catherine Barkley, the Invisible Hemingway Heroine. † The Journal of Narrative Technique, Vol. 18, No. 2 (Spring 188), pp 170-178

Internet connections Essay

The security implications of sharing Internet connections between FTD employees and stuff must be strong in order to assure safety for both the clients and the employees. The main security issue such as data access must be implemented in such a way that the privilege given to the FTD employees which is controlled and manipulated. Controlling the web-browsing habit such as browsing illegal or unwanted web sites need also to be controlled, hence providing user access to email, web sites using password and encryptions is essential. Keeping off the malicious users from accessing valuable information and other external information that can be used against the FTD employees and the authorities needs to be taken under consideration. Sending emails and other attachments must be allowed according to hierarchy of access permissions. Unauthorized access to sensitive data must be prevented by implementing policies and procedures to prevent, detect, contain, and correct security violations. Such prevention needs to be focused on Physical Security, Data Communications Security and Operating systems security. Tools that can be used to enhance the security of computers connected to a network are called a firewall. When selecting firewalls, one must take into account such as easy installation and configuration, report of the attack by identifying time, location and type of attack, good maintenance and monitoring requirements, etc. The firewalls that should be used in the main site are Packet Filtering, Stateful Packet Inspection, Application-Level Proxy and Network Address Translation (NAT). To have a perfectly feasible operation and conduct the most proper ethical business functions is the first priority for most companies and businesses. The most critical issue related with IT is IT security where the objective is to take effective measures to decrease the threats exist today in IT related business such as e-commerce. â€Å"Security and risk management are tightly coupled with quality management and Security measures should be implemented based on risk analysis and in harmony with Quality structures, processes and checklists. † [5]. Today, most companies prefer electronic information over traditional ways of storing and manipulation of information. Data are stored in huge database and process using different front-end software’s form anywhere in the world. â€Å"Security is the protection of information, systems and services against disasters, mistakes and manipulation so that the likelihood and impact of security incidents is minimized. † [5]. IT security is made up of three main categories and they are Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability. Confidentiality is when company or an organization has sensitive information and does not want to disclose such information to anyone outside the company. Integrity is when companies want to update the system to adapt to future needs. As for availability, it is when a business implements a system it needs to make sure the system is up and running when needed. â€Å"A threat is a danger which could affect the security (confidentiality, integrity, availability) of assets, leading to a potential loss or damage. † [5]. Threats such as customer’s information can be disclosed which can affect the credibility of any company; companies information can be hacked by illegally, etc. â€Å"It is often impossible or very difficult to know if you are under attack and from whom and attackers sophistication has increased enormously in the last 5-10 years. † [5] Other threats such as virus development have increased at an alarming rate. However, the most common cause of security problems are as stated â€Å"Human Error 52%, Dishonest people 10%, Technical Sabotage 10%, Fire 15%, Water 10% and Terrorism 3% and many computer crimes Money theft 44%, Damage of software 16%, Theft of information 16%, Alteration of data 12%, Theft of services 10%, Trespass 2%. † [5]. There are many ways to improve the correct securities such as protecting data and information using different sophisticated firewall software, understanding threats and its impact in order to be protected form it, calculating risk and deciding how to eradicate such risk. There are two basic ways to improve security and they are Bottom Up and Top Down. Bottom Up approach is not that precise but in order to implement such approach it is advisable to properly understand company policies, network topology and companies operating procedure.

buy custom The Magazine Business essay

buy custom The Magazine Business essay Magazine business is substantially different from other businesses. In publishing a magazine for sale, the publisher must plan on what stories to tell for the specific audience. Audience is the focus of every magazine marketing strategy. In the magazine, there must be a description on the nature of price and competition. This area of marketing strategy must be able to create on the mind of the readers what the magazine can offer to them, different from other magazines. Magazine business is also crucial in the market since the publisher is required to outline various strategies of advertising for the sales. Before starting a business, it is important to understand the human resource available in your business. Starting a magazine business is a general concept that requires an area to run the business. The general idea is always narrowed to a specific area for the business success. For example, if the magazine business is about lifestyle, it is possible that it will attract a large audience and may face competition. A magazine for shopping on the other side may attract little focus from audience. To run a magazine business, one is required to establish the area where the magazine suits. It is also important to find the information need of the business or the magazine. It always important for readers to pick a magazine, and find the information needed. The marketing strategy of a magazine should analyze the capacity or size of the market, the spending power of the readers/ consumers of the magazine, and fluctuation that may occur in the market. For example, when mortgage market is not on its peak, it would be useless to start on a magazine that focuses on the housing. Launching magazine busi ness requires that research on cmpetition rate is addressed. This research is supposed to establish whether the similar magazine exists in the market, and if there are some similar magazines in the market, do they meet the expectations of audiences and the overall market share or benefits. The research on the magazine business should involve analysis on the competitor strengths and weaknesses. This comparison is then used to analyze what is likely to the situation of proposed business idea in market finance. The moment the magazine has been evaluated on the benefits it has to the readers, it is then put to writing. The magazine business plan will help outsource for the funding. The plan of the magazine should be kept for future reference by the author or publisher. Vendor selection Business activity requires proper outsourcing that tackles labor issues and human resources. The advantage of outsourcing in a business helps to save time and resources. Once such strategies are put in place, the business will run effectively. It also saves money that is sometimes used to look for pertinent laws. Different human resources within the organization or business help to acquire new information on how to run a business. Outsourcing is an effective, time saving and economical in accomplishing the goals of the business. Vendor selection is critical to the magazine business. Vendors are the people who will be in contact with consumers, and must have a rough idea on what the consumers want to buy and what they can offer. Vendor selection is an important process since they are going to the market with a view to making the business prospers. Vendor selection must consider whether the vendor selected really understand the market poosition. The selection should test for the vendors perceptions and expectations on the proposed idea. Response from the vendor will help establish whether the proposed magazine can sell in the market. Vendors should also be analyzed and checked on their background. The next procedure should involve picking the vendor of choice and starting negotiations on the contract. The selection of vendor for a lifestyle magazine will require consideration of gender issues. Female vendor will suit to handle this type of sale. Lifestyle has always been regarded to be feminine issue; women fr eely interact with lifestyle consumers which can be a major boost to sales of magazine. Evaluation of vendors to contract in the business will require considerations on whether the vendor has good interpersonal skills. The vendor should also have good communication skills. The evaluation criteria should be based on the number of magazines that are made by the vendor. Timeline The procurement planning is an outlay of the procurement process that indicates on the duration of the procurement and contracting. Procurement phase consists mainly of the objectives of the procurement, service providers, payment procedures, intensity of the services needed, tender evaluation and format, and schedule and time estimate. The procurement process in the proposed magazine should run for a period of one year. This is adequate time to plan, prepare and provide a report on how the business will be carried out. However, if the plan cannot be met as schedule, the magazine business can be shifted to a newspaper business. This business is likely to attract various readers as it will bring a wide range of information to the readers from the national scene. Buy custom The Magazine Business essay

Psychology Adolescent Depression Essays - Abnormal Psychology

Psychology Adolescent Depression Essays - Abnormal Psychology Psychology Adolescent Depression The Under Acknowledged Disease Depression is a disease that afflicts the human psyche in such a way that the afflicted tends to act and react abnormally toward others and themselves. Therefore it comes to no surprise to discover that adolescent depression is strongly linked to teen suicide. Adolescent suicide is now responsible for more deaths in youths aged 15 to 19 than cardiovascular disease or cancer (Blackman, 1995). Despite this increased suicide rate, depression in this age group is greatly underdiagnosed and leads to serious difficulties in school, work and personal adjustment which may often continue into adulthood. How prevalent are mood disorders in children and when should an adolescent with changes in mood be considered clinically depressed? Brown (1996) has said the reason why depression is often over looked in children and adolescents is because children are not always able to express how they feel. Sometimes the symptoms of mood disorders take on different forms in children than in adults. Adolescence is a time of emotional turmoil, mood swings, gloomy thoughts, and heightened sensitivity. It is a time of rebellion and experimentation. Blackman (1996) observed that the challenge is to identify depressive symptomatology which may be superimposed on the backdrop of a more transient, but expected, developmental storm. Therefore, diagnosis should not lay only in the physician's hands but be associated with parents, teachers and anyone who interacts with the patient on a daily basis. Unlike adult depression, symptoms of youth depression are often masked. Instead of expressing sadness, teenagers may express boredom and irritability, or may choose to engage in risky behaviors (Oster & Montgomery, 1996). Mood disorders are often accompanied by other psychological problems such as anxiety (Oster & Montgomery, 1996), eating disorders (Lasko et al., 1996), hyperactivity (Blackman, 1995), substance abuse (Blackman, 1995; Brown, 1996; Lasko et al., 1996) and suicide (Blackman, 1995; Brown, 1996; Lasko et al., 1996; Oster & Montgomery, 1996) all of which can hide depressive symptoms. The signs of clinical depression include marked changes in mood and associated behaviors that range from sadness, withdrawal, and decreased energy to intense feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. Depression is often described as an exaggeration of the duration and intensity of normal mood changes (Brown 1996). Key indicators of adolescent depression include a drastic change in eating and sleeping patterns, significant loss of interest in previous activity interests (Blackman, 1995; Oster & Montgomery, 1996), constant boredom (Blackman, 1995), disruptive behavior, peer problems, increased irritability and aggression (Brown, 1996). Blackman (1995) proposed that formal psychologic testing may be helpful in complicated presentations that do not lend themselves easily to diagnosis. For many teens, symptoms of depression are directly related to low self esteem stemming from increased emphasis on peer popularity. For other teens, depression arises from poor family relations which could include decreased family support and perceived rejection by parents (Lasko et al., 1996). Oster & Montgomery (1996) stated that when parents are struggling over marital or career problems, or are ill themselves, teens may feel the tension and try to distract their parents. This distraction could include increased disruptive behavior, self-inflicted isolation and even verbal threats of suicide. So how can the physician determine when a patient should be diagnosed as depressed or suicidal? Brown (1996) suggested the best way to diagnose is to screen out the vulnerable groups of children and adolescents for the risk factors of suicide and then refer them for treatment. Some of these risk factors include verbal signs of suicide within the last three months, prior attempts at suicide, indication of severe mood problems, or excessive alcohol and substance abuse. Many physicians tend to think of depression as an illness of adulthood. In fact, Brown (1996) stated that it was only in the 1980's that mood disorders in children were included in the category of diagnosed psychiatric illnesses. In actuality, 7-14% of children will experience an episode of major depression before the age of 15. An average of 20-30% of adult bipolar patients report having their first episode before the age of 20. In a sampling of 100,000 adolescents, two to three thousand will have mood disorders out of which 8-10 will commit suicide (Brown, 1996). Blackman (1995) remarked that the suicide rate for adolescents has increased more than 200% over the last decade. Brown (1996) added that an estimated 2,000 teenagers per year commit suicide in the United States, making it the leading cause of death after accidents and homicide. Blackman (1995) stated that it is not uncommon for young people to be preoccupied with issues of mortality and to contemplate the effect their death would have on close family and friends. Once it has been determined

Applications of seven habits by Steven Covey Essay Example for Free

Applications of seven habits by Steven Covey Essay This classic best seller for management, organisations and personal development encapsulates Steven Covey’s research on 200 years of success literature since his doctoral program. It is perhaps the most influential book for managers and organizations to learn the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, as the title suggest. It begins with the concept that people perceive the world differently, and we form our own paradigm – how we view the world with our own unique â€Å"lens†. Covey explains that paradigms are the source of our attitudes and behaviours. Part of achieving insight involves making a â€Å"paradigm shift† which causes us to perceive things differently. Our paradigms will affect how we interact with others, which in turn will affect how they interact with us. Covey argues that any effective self-help program must begin with an â€Å"inside-out† approach, rather than looking at our problems as â€Å"being out there† (an inside-out approach). We must start by examining our own character, paradigms, and motives. Hence, character and principles are keys to success, effectiveness, and happiness in life. The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People points out: â€Å"Principles are guidelines for human conduct that are proven to have enduring, permanent value.† The seven habits divided into two main groups: private victory (independence) and public victory (interdependence). Habits of Independence: Habit 1: Be Proactive We must use our resourcefulness to work toward our personal goals. Everyone has both a circle of influence and a circle of concern. Worrying endlessly about things outside of our circle of influence isn’t particularly productive. Working within our circle of influence is productive. Further, the more effective we become, the more our circle of influence will expand. Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind What do we want people to say about us at our funerals? How will we be remembered? To succeed, Cov ey suggests visualization. Every successful outcome is created twice; first one plan and second on implementation. Habit 3: Put First Things First The key to putting first things first is to understand that we have many things we can do which will have a significant, positive impact on our lives. Covey stresses that we must balance Production (P) with Productive Capability (PC). We must keep the golden eggs, but also maintain goose. Prioritization is the essence of time management. Interdependence The remaining habits in The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People are habits of interdependence. Rather than being dependent upon other people, or trying to be totally independent, we learn how to be more effective by effectively working with others. Habit 4: Think Win/Win Thinking Win/Win means seeking mutual benefit in our human interactions. To be successful in the long run, we should learn to consider other’s win factors besides our own. Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, then to be Understood Most people talk more than they listen. Until we listen actively and seek to understand others, we would not be understood. Active listening is about sensing the three modes of communications, i.e. visual, vocal and verbal. Habit 6: Synergize It means that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Combining the strengths of each individual yields multiple outcome beyond expectations, simply ‘1+1>2’. Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw Just as a machine will wear out quickly if not properly maintained, the same is true for our own personal productivity. We must take care of ourselves. The four dimensions are physical, mental, social/emotional and spiritual renewals. To me, the first concept on paradigm is profound. I agree that when we change our perspectives, our attitudes and behaviours will change. To achieve enrichment in life, we need to understand our own paradigm, crystalize and anchor our principles. I have adopted these principles and find peace in self-awareness, social relationship and professional communications. Covey has successfully synthesised the successful habits of leaders, crystallised and organized them into two progressive segments. In line with child development from birth through death, one indeed grows from dependence to independence in early childhoo d to adolescence. We then mature to adults, where we progress from independence to interdependence. The seven habits are indeed proven to be critical for any individual to attain private and public victories. Hence it is no surprise that whenever I business leaders within my network on which are some books they would read to enrich their management knowledge, this book is voted as the most influential book that changed their lives. I have personally adopted these habits in my personal and professional communications and testify their effectiveness. I have sharpened my strengths in strategic thinking and leadership by adopting the habits of ‘Begin with the end in mind’ and ‘Synergize’. For instance at the Polytechnic, I mooted the idea of Young GEMS(Go-the-Extra-Miles-for-Service) camp for upper secondary school students to build our prospects for future enrolment. Upon approval from management for the Young GEMS camp, I formed a program team and successfully lead it to implement the camp through skilful synergy of the individual’s competence. This book has provided comprehensive coverage on the why and how of each habit. The only gap I see is that the context are US-based. It would be better if there is an Asian version with case studies of local enterprises and leaders, for the benefit of Asian readers. For instance, unlike Americans, Asians are generally weak in questioning skills to ‘seek to understand’ others. It would be helpful if there are some recommended strategies in questioning to gain insights of other’s perspectives. Also, Asians tends to individual and less apt to working in teams, particularly in appreciating individual strengths, expressing diversified opinions openly. Asian case studies on ‘Win-win’ and ‘Synergize’ would certainly be helpful. There is no doubt that all seven habits are pivotal in today’s managers and organisations. I personally have benefited as an account manager in Hewlett-Packard Singapore Sales when I was sponsored to attend the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People one-week course. It has significantly increased my self-awareness, strategic thinking skills, time-management skills and revolutionizes my perspectives in life. I can testify that the Habits are practical prescriptions for building trustworthy and lasting relationships, hence empowering managers to be effective leaders who could develop the most conducive working environment that attracts and retains like-minded talents for the good of society. Applications of seven habits by Steven Covey. (2016, Aug 05).

Religion class Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Religion class - Essay Example It has strengthened my belief in a superior power and made me a positive thinker at even the oddest hour. I abstain from bad habits, such as illegal relationship, liquor, fights, backbiting, conspiring just because Islam taught me so. I am interested in getting myself educated and travelled to America because my religion asked every one including women, children, and men to get educated even if we have to travel for longer periods. I offer prayer five times a day in any mosque with other Muslims and Imam. If there is no mosque nearby, I offer it alone on a clean surface. Every year, in the month of Ramadan, I observe fast for a month which is followed by Eid-ul-fitar. It is followed by another religious practice called sacrifice of animals on Eid-ul-adha; I practice this tradition with my family. My family gives alms to poor; it is a certain amount on our money which is given as charity. I have also performed Hajj and Umrah. My religious preference is Islam despite all the rage about Muslims and Islam in western world. It is the same religious tradition in which I am raised. However, it has little to do with my birth in a Muslim family. Muslim culture and tradition in not only Saudi society but in other world regions has immensely inspired me to stick with it. I am determined to practice religion Islam in future because of my faith in its universality, diversity, humility, logic, and compliance with the modern and scientific world in a balanced way. On an honest note, I am not fully learned about Islam. I want to explore it in depth because it inspires me at every point I come across. Muhammad (PBUH) is the Prophet of God and he is the most ideal human being I have ever known. I am inspired by the way he spent his life, be it his love with human, relationship with enemies, everyday life or war time. Knowing my religious background and its acceptance as preferred religion in future

Reflection paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Reflection - Research Paper Example I like this film because the director is able to find out an apt solution for the emotional problems faced by the high school students. Problems faced by teenagers/adolescents The teenagers/adolescents feel that that they are no more children. On the other side, elders are not ready to consider them as grown up individuals. This status between the worlds of children and elders is really frustrating for the teenagers/adolescents. So, the teenagers/adolescents in high schools are forced to form their own gangs or cliques. In the film, the children from the Shermer High School undergo detention and this change their lives. Barsanti (2010) stated that, â€Å"A cross-section of high schoolers spend Saturday detention testing each other’s limits, probing for weaknesses, categorizing, and defining† (p.49). The students are aware of the fact that they are from different groups and cliques. In the beginning, they refuse to share their personal matters. Gradually, they began to s hare their personal matters and the problems faced by them. In the film, the teenager named as Allison Reynolds reveals that she is compulsive liar. On the other side, John Bender is facing some adjustment problem at his home because homely matters disturb him a lot. In the end, all the children came to realize the fact that they face similar problems. Most of the parents consider that their children should obey them without any objection. One can see that the grass root level reason behind the faced by teenagers/adolescents is interconnected with their families. For instance, the high school children in the film face a number of problems in their families and this leads to further problems at the school. Their hatred towards their parents eventually leads them towards misbehavior and punishment. So, this film reveals that the elders must try to understand the fact that family problems can lead teenagers/adolescents to misbehavior at schools. Family circumstance and individual devel opment In my opinion, family circumstance can exert positive or negative influence on individual development. For instance, most of the troublemakers at schools are from broken families. When a child is not able to have enough emotional attachment at home, it will react in a different way. One can see that the most important factor behind the success of a family is unity or deep relationship among the members. If the elder members of a family fail to provide enough love and care to the youngsters, there exists high possibility for emotional problems. In the film, problems within the private circle leads the children towards further problems at their school. On the other side, their teachers are not ready to find out the reason behind their misbehavior. For instance, their teacher (Mr. Vernon) never tires to find out the reason behind their misconduct. If the teacher tries to talk with them, he can easily find out the problem and can help them to overcome the same. I consider that th e students must try to discuss their problems with their teachers. If students face some problem in their private circle, they can discuss the same with their teachers. In the film, peer group influence is strong among the students and they are not aware of the drawbacks of the same. So, the director makes use of the lives of high school children to reveal the relationship between family circumstan

Comparative legal system Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Comparative legal system - Essay Example In a religious legal system all the religious laws converge to one ultimate concept and that is religion. However in a secular legal system, by contrast, changes and amendments forms a necessary part of the process as the concept of the system is to continuously improve formal law and practices, and their influence on the tradition of life. People and state-welfare is given due importance and the office of jurisdiction is reinforced by guarantees of judicial independence. There are few countries where the legal system is exclusively religious, though some (mainly Islamic countries) aspire to this. It is not only the State that upholds the responsibility of implementing laws in the religious system, even the people seem to share a common ground of 1understanding that no tolerance should be practiced while dealing with violation of the religious laws. On the other hand a large number of countries have secular legal system where the laws are made and enacted with a constant effort to develop the social and financial infrastructure, human rights and freedom. This is well illustrated in the very first words of the First Amendment to the Constitution 2of the United States, which came into force in 1789: â€Å"Congress shall make no laws respecting the establishment of religion†. The United States has many constitutional and statutory guarantees of religious liberty. Most important are two sentences in the Constitution of the United States. The first is the Test Oath Clause, in Article 6, clause 3, which provides: â€Å"[N]o religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States†. England has historically required office holders to swear an oath that they believed in essential doctrines of the Church of England, or of Protestantism more generally. The Test Oath Clause prohibits

Art History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Art History - Essay Example f culture that mystify the Europeans such as the political dominion and other ideologies, which suggested that the degree of realism cannot be ignored (Nochlin 34). Images of orientalists cannot be analyzed without clarifying the clarity. For example, the Jean-Leone Gerome Snake Charmer art work of 1860. It was considered as the visual document portraying 19th century colonial ideas. It focused on Asian language of a transparent naturalism. The methodology employed by Orientals when creating their paintings is quite an admirable aspect. This is because they are able to involve the audience. The other mystifying acts of the Europeans depiction of the oriental comes into being when they take a photograph of the Oriental towns without ever having time to study them perfectly, in an expression specifically known as ‘touristic presence’(Nochlin 37). The European in the paintings are depicted as being only the gazers who finally bring the Asian world into life as intended. According to Orientalist painter Gerome, the strategy was to make viewers see the reflections of the Oriental reality. Black people especially the female, were depicted in various paintings to give aesthetic value to white merchants. For example (Nochlin 49) says that â€Å"the presence of black servant in Moorish Bath scenes serves connotative as well as ethnic purposes†. From Jean-Leone Gerome’s painting of The Slave Market, it should also be noted that slaves were from the inferior culture and that they were traded according to their complexion, gender as well as sexuality. Trading of attractive women was done inside the opera house. The merchants were not the typical Orientals but civilized Parisians. The women in question usually dressed up provocatively to attract buyers willing to part with their money. There is one particular painting known as Manet of Olympia where a black maid was used to indicate sexual naughtiness, but also treated less as compared to a lovely white figure. Sultan

History of the International Association of Fire Fighters and their Research Paper

History of the International Association of Fire Fighters and their influence today - Research Paper Example IAFF has played a crucial role in managing human resources in the fire fighting industry. The union has managed to improve the working conditions of fire fighters to an extent that it is a reliable and dependable profession. The safety of the fire fighters has been at the fore of the objectives of the union. It has focused on fighting for better wages, compensation benefits for occupational deaths and enhancing fire fighters’ skills in fighting fires. IAFF has elevated itself to a position of great influence in today’s society. This report will cover the progress made by the union since its inception in 1918 and show how such progress has changed the fire fighting profession for better. In this report, two major issues are discussed – the history of IAFF and its influence today. In discussing the history of IAFF, the milestones the union has made since its inception are highlighted. The union has been quite active and has succeeded in making great achievements. This report only highlights a handful of the achievements. On the second section, the influence of IAFF is discussed. IAFF’s influence is discussed from two perspectives – the policies it has necessitated to be enacted, and the programs and services it offers to its membership. These two have greatly changed the face of fire fighting profession and made it an integral part of the society. The history of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is long and one that bears witness to the benefits of a continuous improvement of human resources. This association has its headquarters in Washington, DC. The association membership is more than 300, 000. The association has greatly influenced advances in the fire fighting industry and is highly credited for tremendously securing the working conditions of fire fighters. It has continuously done this by lobbying the legislature to pass laws that protect fire fighters and developing training for the fire fighters (IAFF,

Surrogate Mothers and Human Enhancement Dilemmas Assignment - 1

Surrogate Mothers and Human Enhancement Dilemmas - Assignment Example   Moreover, the mother becomes alienated from her labor as well as the child thus violating the mother’s right to consideration. Through the concept of alienation, Anderson (1990) further indicates that commercial surrogacy reduces pregnancy to a form of drudgery performed for money motives, which is against the societal norms. What’s more, Anderson (1990) responds to the objection that the women sign a contract and agreed to be surrogate mothers by articulating that the contract does not guarantee the surrogate mother peace of mind as it merely treats moral transformation as any other economic exchange. Disparagingly, the surrogate agency strives to strike the best deal while leaving the surrogate mother in a position that she can hardly protect and/or serve her interests. Moreover, the woman might have signed the contract out of desperation and vulnerability, a factor which exposes her to exploitation by surrogate agency hence mothers should be allowed to decide what to do with the pregnancy, and surrogate contracts should not be enforceable (Anderson, 1990). Biotechnology is often used in enhancing human nature. However, the entire concept is often contentious with proponents and critics articulating various reasons for and against the use of biotechnology in enhancing the nature of human beings. Buchanan (2009) responds to the objection of using biotechnology to enhance the nature of human beings by accentuating that people possess some characteristics that are not always ideal whereas Parens (2005) provides a context-specific of female Viagra to indicate why biotechnological enhancements are not always viable. Human beings, from a philosophical standpoint, consist of dispositions that shape their behaviors.  

History of the International Association of Fire Fighters and their Research Paper

History of the International Association of Fire Fighters and their influence today - Research Paper Example IAFF has played a crucial role in managing human resources in the fire fighting industry. The union has managed to improve the working conditions of fire fighters to an extent that it is a reliable and dependable profession. The safety of the fire fighters has been at the fore of the objectives of the union. It has focused on fighting for better wages, compensation benefits for occupational deaths and enhancing fire fighters’ skills in fighting fires. IAFF has elevated itself to a position of great influence in today’s society. This report will cover the progress made by the union since its inception in 1918 and show how such progress has changed the fire fighting profession for better. In this report, two major issues are discussed – the history of IAFF and its influence today. In discussing the history of IAFF, the milestones the union has made since its inception are highlighted. The union has been quite active and has succeeded in making great achievements. This report only highlights a handful of the achievements. On the second section, the influence of IAFF is discussed. IAFF’s influence is discussed from two perspectives – the policies it has necessitated to be enacted, and the programs and services it offers to its membership. These two have greatly changed the face of fire fighting profession and made it an integral part of the society. The history of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is long and one that bears witness to the benefits of a continuous improvement of human resources. This association has its headquarters in Washington, DC. The association membership is more than 300, 000. The association has greatly influenced advances in the fire fighting industry and is highly credited for tremendously securing the working conditions of fire fighters. It has continuously done this by lobbying the legislature to pass laws that protect fire fighters and developing training for the fire fighters (IAFF,

Fast Food Essay Example for Free

Fast Food Essay Most of people prefer to eat fast food such as hamburgers, fried chicken, shawarma or pizza and they dont know that this food will lead them to many health diseases. The main reason of eating fast food that many people are working long hours, shifts, or extended school hours and this will result in less time being available for cooking. The purpose of this essay is to discuss three effects of fast food eating which are the obesity, the loss of the family tradition of eating together and the cost of doing it. The first effect of fast food is that it causes obesity. People when they eat too much fast food will be more able to obtain fat; as a result, it will lead to more dangerous diseases, for example, high cholesterol, heart attack and high blood pressure. Also, teenagers who are suffer from overweight, they are mostly loss confident of themselves, like to be alone all the time and they are more obvious to have depression, Fatigue and Physical illnesses. The second effect of fast food eating is that it is making people isolated from the society. Sitting around the table with the family allows to share about their day and for parents to know more about their children. So, people when eating in the restaurant and spend most of their time outside; consequently, they are more likely to drink alcohol, smoke cigarette and try marijuana. The third effect of eating fast food is that it will eventually result in kills our personal budget. Fast food restaurant make their food taste good by add sugary substances. This also makes you want to come back, spending more money on food than necessary. These are three out of many other effects that fast food can have; however, to any sensible person they are more than enough to realize that fast food is bad. People cannot proud of being fat. It is terrible for health as well as personal appearance. In the end, those people who eat fast food are tend to be overweight, less time with family and live in poverty. Therefore, you should reduce eating too much of fast food.

Environmental Analysis Of Brazil Marketing Essay

Environmental Analysis Of Brazil Marketing Essay DAIM Co. is the company that has been operating successfully for the past 15 years providing and manufacturing computer and computer devices and considered as the market leader in the Malaysian market. Due to the high competition in the market, the manager of DAIM Co. intends to persuade companys BOD (Board of Directors) to penetrate Brazilian market. The main idea of the business is to sell computers and computer devices in Brazil. The main purpose of this assignment is to perform environmental analysis of Brazil, to identify possible opportunities and threats, and to analyze how the environmental factors in terms of political-legal, social, economic and technological environment can affect the international operation functions and decision-making of a business. Also, this research paper provides most appropriate market entry strategy. Selected Product: Computer and computer devices Executive Summary flag_of_brazil.png images.jpg Geography It is a country that situates in the South America, and continents largest nation. Borders almost all the countries on the continent except Chile and Ecuador and has exit to Atlantic Ocean that makes country easy to access by the sea. The surface area of the country is 8 547 000 square km. Brazil ranks as fifth largest country. The capital city is Brasilia, while the most important cities are Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Brazils climate is tropical due to the location of the country, with the south being temperate. (Appendix 1, Political Map of Brazil) Demography It is the most populous nation in the South America, and worlds 6 country according to population after China, India, USA, Indonesia and Russian Federation. The population of brazil is equal to 190,732,694 people as of August 2010, which is 2.76% of Worlds Population. And the birth rate is 22.65 births per 1,000 populations. Different ethnic groups can be described as follows: 55% are whites of European descent, 22% are mulattous of mixed European and African Descent, 11% blacks and 0.1% Native Americans. (http://www.ibge.gov.br/english/presidencia/noticias/noticia_visualiza.php?id_noticia=1766id_pagina=1 ) Economic Profile Brazil has best economy among all countries in Latin America. Since its independence September 7, 1822 the economy is rapidly developing. And the result by 2010 is: GDP (nominal exchange rate): $ 2.1 trillion. GDP (purchasing power parity): $2.194 trillion. (Appendix 2, GDP of Brazil) Annual real growth (2010): 7.5%. Natural resources: Iron ore, manganese, bauxite, nickel, uranium, gemstones, oil, wood, and aluminum. Brazil has 14% of the worlds renewable fresh water. Agriculture (6% of GDP):  Productssoybeans, coffee, sugarcane, cocoa, rice, livestock, corn, oranges, cotton, wheat, and tobacco. Industry (28% of GDP):  Typessteel, commercial aircraft, chemicals, petrochemicals, footwear, machinery, motors, vehicles, auto parts, consumer durables, cement, and lumber. Exchange rate (March 3, 2011): U.S. $1 = 1.65 Brazilian reals. International Business Trade balance of Brazil as for 2011 is $20 billion surplus.  Exports: $202 billion.  Major markets of exports are: China 15%, USA 10%, Argentina 9%.  Imports: $182 billion.  Major suppliers are USA 15%, China 14%, and Argentina 8%. (http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/35640.htm) PESTLE Analysis PESTLE is a strategic management tool that provides useful framework to analyze the environmental pressures on Business (Goyal et al, 2009). Political: Brazil is a federal republic with 26 states and a federal district. The 1988 constitution grants broad powers to the federal government, made up of executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Electing Lula da Silva in the 2002 as the president of Brazil has been described as a milestone, a starting point for secured democratic rule in the nation. This was an important in the establishment of economic norms and practices for the country; the more socialist models of state-run industry have been rejected, and significant international debt has been incurred to address the social ills facing the country. During the economic crisis in Latin America, the Brazilian economic situation becomes even more important; the growth of the Brazilian market has come to bear significantly on the worlds economy. After the election there have been significant improvements in the political environment, but political wrangling still exists, and a fragmented congress means economic risks still remain.  Issues surrounding policy implementation mean that expected future benefits from current policies are uncertain. Economic: Brazilian economy is the largest in the South America region; country has well developed agriculture, mining, manufacturing and service sector. From 2003, Brazil improved its macroeconomic situation, built foreign relations, reduced internal debt, kept inflation rate under control. Later during the financial crisis Brazilian economy had a solid performance and its strong and early recovery, including 2010 growth of 7.5%, have contributed to the countrys transition from a regional to a global power. Expected to continue to grow in the 4% to 5% range, the economy is the worlds eighth-largest and is expected to rise to fifth within the next several years. During the administration of former President Lula, surging exports, economic growth and social programs helped lift tens of millions of Brazilians out of poverty. Social: The large and growing consumer market provides a strong basis for considering market entry.      It is unlikely that overall workforce availability will be an issue, given the option of using international labor if requirements cannot be met locally.  Ã‚   Labor costs are attractive but there are significant costs on top of basic wages and requirements for additional training. Technological: Brazil is a leader in science and technology in South America and in some fields a global leader, such as bio fuels, agricultural research, deep-sea oil production, and remote sensing. U.S. Government, private sector, and academic researchers have extensive ties with Brazilian counterparts, and the extent of bilateral scientific and technological cooperation is expanding. The Brazilian Government seeks to develop an environment that is more supportive of innovation, taking scientific advances from the laboratory to the marketplace. Legal: The Legal rules governing business activities in Brazil are basically laid down in federal legislation, but constitution allows Federal Government to legislate on certain matters related to business activities, such as tax, financial and economic issues, liability for environmental and consumer damages. Federal Governments power is limited to enacting basic rules on such issues, whereas States and Federal District have authority to legislate on a supplementary basis, in line with the general rules laid down in the federal legislation. Brazil offers big business opportunities for foreign investors, in light of its economic potential, its diversified economy and its huge domestic market, now considerably expanded as a result of several international trade agreements entered into with economic blocks and countries the World over. Environmental: According to the geographical location of Brazil, it is very easy accessible by the sea, this means the country has an exit to the Atlantic Ocean. The raw materials, equipment, and products can easily be delivered by the sea which is not costly comparing to transportation by air. Also, according to the geographical location of the country there is no natural disaster like earthquakes and tsunami, which may cause stoppage of the business. Due to the large size, the climate of Brazil is different, even though the most part of the country is within tropical zone. The climate of Brazil experiments two seasons: the rainy which is summer and dry season which is winter. There is no cold at all, so the climate is partly same as in Malaysia, and it is very suitable for doing business in this country. Market and Segment Analysis STP (Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning) is the essence of marketing. (Kotler, 1994, p. 93) Segmentation is the  process  of defining and subdividing a  market  into clearly identifiable  segments having similar  needs,  wants, or  demand  characteristics. (http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/market-segmentation.html) Demographic Segmentation refers to a wide study of the potential customers (Kotler, P., 2002). It consists of the variables such as: age, income, occupation and gender. The below diagram demonstrates the age segmentation: 13-25 years for Education and Entertainment 25-65 years for doing business. Segment.jpg The income level is an important part of segmentation, everyone can afford computers and computer devices, because nowadays there to many types of devices and they vary in pricing. It is available for all levels of users, occupation and gender. Geographic Segmentation is done by dividing people (markets) into different geographical locations. (Kotler Armstrong, 2002, p.252) Here, the main target will be main cities like capital Brasilia, and the most important cities in the country Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Targeting Strategy is the  selection  of  potential  customers  to whom a  business wishes to  sell  products  or  services. The targeting  strategy involves segmenting the market, choosing which  segments of the market are  appropriate, and determining the products that will be offered in each segment. (http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/targeting-strategy.html) Mostly computer devices will be selling to the big companies who need computers to operate their business and customers who uses computers that need devices to coordinate their busy schedules and communicate with colleagues, friends and family. Also, high schools, colleges and other educational institutions will be targeted in Brazil. Positioning Strategy   states  how the  firm  defines  its  business  or how a  brand  distinguishes itself, how the  customers  will benefit from its  features, and how these  benefits  or aspects will be communicated to the intended  audience. (http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/positioning-statement.html) We are positioning our computers and computer devices as the versatile, convenient, value-added devices for doing business, personal and professional use. The marketing strategy will focus on the convenience of doing business, entertainment with access to the internet. Mode of Entry to the Market The proposed way to enter Brazilian market is through Joint Venture strategy, which is defined as a contractual business undertaking between two or more parties. It is similar to a business partnership, with one key difference: a partnership generally involves an ongoing, long-term business relationship, whereas a joint venture is based on a single business transaction. Establishment of joint ventures is a common practice in Brazil. A major motivation for joint ventures is to pair foreign firms with Brazilian partners to compete in segments of the government procurement market or in other markets subject to government regulation, such as telecommunications, computers and capital goods. Formation of a joint venture can be accomplished through a variety of business entities. Entering a joint venture is a complex, and sometimes, time consuming process. As any type business structure, it holds a good opportunity for anyone to grow and make money fast; but just like any other business type; joint venture also holds threat to anyone who wants to enter. Porters 5 Forces Porters fives forces model  is a model which is using to analyze a particular environment of an industry in terms of Competitive rivalry, power of suppliers, power of buyers, threats of substitutes and threat of new entrants. Competitive rivalry: When entering to the market, the first thing you have to do is to analyze competitive rivalry in the country you going to set your business. If entry to an industry is easy then competitive rivalry will likely to be high. If it is easy for customers to move to substitute products for example from coke to water then again rivalry will be high. Generally competitive rivalry will be high if: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ There is little differentiation between the products sold between customers. Actually, there is not so much difference between computer devices sold in different companies. This means the customers will look for those products which have better quality or long life cycle of the product, in other words durability. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Competitors are approximately the same size of each other. Those companies who are operating as retailers only, will face a big trouble against big companies. The buyers prefer to work with best, well known companies who provide stability and confidence to them. Power of  suppliers Suppliers are also essential for the success of an  organization. Raw materials are needed to complete the finish product of the organization.  Suppliers  do have power. This power comes from:   à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ If they are the only  supplier  or one of few  suppliers  who  supply  that particular raw material. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ If it costly for the  organization  to move from one  supplier  to another à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ If there is no other substitute for their product. Power of buyers Buyers or customers can exert  influence  and control over an industry in certain circumstances. This happens when: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ There is little differentiation over the product and substitutes can be found easily. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Customers are sensitive to price. The pricing should not be high, it must suit their expectations. The overall life concerns in Brazil are low, this means we have to identify the prices in relation to the customers, are they able to buy our products. If the prices will be high, the customer will switch to another product or company which is not costly for them. Threat of Substitutes This is about the alternative products that customers can purchase over your product that offer the same benefit for the same or less price. Threat of substitute is high when the price of your PC is higher than your competitors price, or when competitors decide to cut the prices of their products. In this industry, we can say that there is high competition, so this can bring to losing customers because customers sometimes are willing to substitute and compare the products or companies itself. Threat of new entrant The threat of a new  organization  entering the industry is high when it is easy for an organization  to enter the industry. An  organization  will look at how loyal customers are to existing products, how quickly they can achieve economy of scales, would they have access to  suppliers, would  government legislation  prevent them or encourage them to enter the industry. Actually, there is high probability that other companies will enter the market and will compete with you in the market. Conclusion Doing business in Brazil may be very profitable to the international companies. All the factors that may affect the business are positively affecting the business. PC industry is developing on Brazil. And there are many drivers to start your own business in the Brazil. International companies have advantage over the local companies, as they are undervalued and in need of restructuring, capital and technology. There is creative and flexible labor force, which is not expensive comparing to other countries. Growth potential of consumer market is very high. Privatization in late stages, inflation is under control in the last 10 years. There is increasing globalization and international trade. Foreign investors are eligible for most available fiscal incentives. And established transportation networks such as railways, highways, ports make it easy to operate in Brazil.

Evolution And Creation :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The theory of evolution and creation are the same and different in a lot of ways.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Lamarck was the first person to come up with a theory for evolution. There are a lot of different creation stories in the Native American   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The theory of evolution means that all plants and animals developed from earlier forms by hereditary communications of slight changes in the production or generations.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The word evolution means“The historical development of a biological group (as a race or species) (Webster’s dictionary). The origin of the theory of evolution began with the French naturalist named Lamarck. This happened in around 1809. He said that the more an animal used its body parts the stronger they got. He also said that the less a animal used its body parts the smaller or weaker it became. He thought that these traits became hereditary. Later scientist disproved this theory when more was learned more about genes and how they work.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  50 years later Darwin came up with a theory that most scientist believe it to this day. this is called the theory of evolution. His book was called “The Origin of Specie.'; Alfred R. Wallace, came out with a theory that was almost identical to Darwin’s theory. Darwin’s theory was much more developed and better known. For example Darwin pointed out that farmers would take certain qualities from two different plants and mix them together and it would produce the desired plant. He believed this happened in nature also and he called it “the survival of the fittest'; or “natural selection.';   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are a lot of different creation stories and they are the same in that since but they are all different. The creation stories start at the beginning of the world.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The creation myth I’ve chosen to wright about is based on what native Americans believe. Here is a quote from chief Weneinock of Yakima “God created the Indian country and it was like he spread out a big blanket. He put the Indians on it . . . and that was the time the river started to run. Then god created fish in the river and put deer in the mountains . . . then the creator gave us Indian life; we walked and as soon as we saw the game and the fish we knew they were made for us. We grew and multiplied as a people.'; (Taylor Ph.D.)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Another creation story is from the Iroquoian mythology. They thought sky women gave birth to twins. Their names were Iouskeha and Tawiscaron. Iouskeha was the good- minded twin, he was born normal and he made plants, animals, birds and mankind.

Galileo: Scientist, Scholar, Rebel Essay -- essays research papers

Seventeenth-century European study was controlled by two powerful forces: the Roman Catholic Church, headed by the Pope, and ancient philosophy dominated by the 2000-year-old ideas of the Greek philosopher, Aristotle. The Church had an overwhelming influence on the lives of most Europeans. During Galileo’s time one in twelve people living in Rome was either a cleric or a nun.1 The Church forbid any teaching that deviated from what was taught in the Bible. To enforce this control, the Church set up the Inquisition. Galileo was targeted by the Inquisition for his observations and experiments. 2 Because his teachings differed from the socially accepted ideas of Aristotle, the Inquisition believed he should be persecuted. Even though Galileo’s observations were much more factual than Aristotle’s and, more important, backed up by experiments and the use of the telescope, he was still sentenced to house arrest for life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Galileo Galilei was born on February 15, 1564, in Pisa Italy.3 Galileo was born into a family considered nobility, and his father, Vincenzo Galilei, was an accomplished musician.4 Galileo was tutored privately and also educated by his father until the age of eleven, when his family moved to Florence and sent him to a Jesuit monastery to study medicine.5 Three years after his son began school, Vincenzo was surprised to learn Galileo had decided to become a monk. Somewhat angered, his father withdrew him from the monastery, and Galileo continued his high school education in Florence.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   At age seventeen Galileo began college at the University of Pisa, where he reluctantly studied medicine. 6 Throughout his first term attending the university, Galileo became more interested in mathematics than medicine. A court mathematician, by the name of Ostillo Ricci, noticed Galileo in his lectures.7 Impressed with Galileo’s knowledge, he urged Galileo change his major to mathematics. Against his father’s wishes, Galileo changed courses, and by the end of his first term he was a mathematics undergraduate.8   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Galileo made his first important discovery while attending the University of Pisa. Galileo noticed a swinging lamp above him during a church sermon. Extremely bored, Galileo conducted an experiment to see if the amount of time in between each swing was the same. Using hi... ...i. School of Mathmatics and St. Andrews, Scotland, August 1995; available from http://www.history.mcs.standrews.ac.uk/history/mathmatics/galileo.html;Internet. 4 Ibid. 5 Ibid. 6 Ibid. 7 Jack Meadows, The Great Scientists. Oxford University; New York, 1987, p. 35. 8 Deborah Hitzeroth and Sharon Heerbor, Galileo Galilei. Lucent Books Inc; California, 1992, p.15. 9 Ibid., p.16. 10 J.V. Field, Galileo Galilei. School of Mathmatics and St. Andrews, Scotland, August 1995; available from http://www.history.mcs.standrews.ac.uk/history/mathmatics/galileo.html;Internet. 11 Ibid. 12 Galileo Galilei- Astrology. Available from http://www.astrology.about.com/library/weekly/aa0zz00b. 13 Ibid. 14 Ibid. 17 Ibid. 18 Jack Meadows, The Great Scientists. Oxford University; New York, 1987, p.41. 19 Deborah Hitzeroth and Sharon Heerbor, Galileo Galilei. Lucent Books Inc; California, 1992, p.24. 20 Jack Meadows, The Great Scientists. Oxford University; New York, 1987, p.44. 21 Ibid., p.45. 22 Giorgio De Santillan, The Crimes of Galileo. Time Inc; University of Chicago Press, 1962, p.185. 23 Ibid., p.257. 24 Ibid. 25 Jack Meadows, The Great Scientists. Oxford University; New York, 1987, p.48. 26 Ibid

Project Scope Somplete Kitchen Remodel Essay

Business Requirements A complete kitchen remodel is proposed and will be located at Sponsor Representatives residence. Background The residence will contain new cabinets, countertops, flooring and hardware that will update current kitchen in existing materials and result in major investment increase of the value and marketability for resale Business Opportunity An analysis based on interviews and inspection of the Sponsor Representative’s residence revealed that the current kitchen is outdated. The remodel will update the kitchen and increase the value of the residence. Business Objectives and Success Criteria The success of this project is the establishment of a new kitchen within the budget of thirty thousand dollars in the three months allocated. The kitchen remodel must be visually appealing and be functional upon completion. Customer or Market Needs: Business Risks Without the kitchen remodel, it will be impossible to increase kitchen investment value. Another risk is the financial risk of the investment itself due to loss of market value. Vision of the Solution The new kitchen will be used to cook everyday meals and also host events. Vision Statement The new kitchen will be used in the future to host events and increase the value of the residence. Assumptions and Dependencies: None Limitations and Exclusions: None Stakeholder Profiles DimensionDrivers ConstraintDegree of Freedom Schedule Complete in Three Months________________________________________ FeaturesUpdated Cabinets________________________________________ QualityQuality Cabinets Cost of Materials ________________________________________ Staff Five PM Students Outsourcing Contractors________________________________________ Cost Budget of 30K Project Priorities StakeholderMajor Value Attributes Major Interests Constraints ________________________________________ Updated KitchenIncreased Value Time of Max budget To ResidenceCompletion of 30K Operating Environment: The homeowner will be responsible for utilities used while completing the project.

Critical Thinking and Perception Essay

What is real? Our perception of reality is often a product of the environment in which we live. In general, we formulate ideas of reality based on our own experiences as well as the experiences of the people around us. Our lives are influenced constantly by our surroundings. I truly believe that perception is a learned skill and not instinctive. Outside of our communities, television, radio and movies sculpt our perception of the outside world. I think most of my thinking at the ordinary level is based on perception, language, and information. At the most there is one logic step: If this than that. I think most thinking takes place in the perceptual stage. These are the questions that arise, How much do I take in? and how do I look at things? This perception is based on habits of perceptions and what I hear, what I read and how I express myself. I understand that we do not need to use much explicit logic because we have already built the logic into our language. For example, killing is ‘bad’ unless justified by war or self-dense. I know that with decisions I followed what was recommended and what my friends were doing and then rationalized it with the following rationalization: Everyone does this and the stock rises for a while and when the market eventually gets a severe correction I rationalize that as well. This rationalization is based on information–not all-available information but a selection that fits what I was inclined to do anyway. I think that logic can be used to reinforce perceptions (and prejudices) but logic and argument will not change perceptions. Perception is more than sensing; it is processing, reacting, and interpreting. Faith Bryne describes perception as, â€Å"detecting the nature of both outer and inner worlds. In many cases, it also means responding in some way, either consciously or unconsciously.† (Perception, 57) Perception is the way we look at things and I think processing is what we do with that perception. In my view if we take processing for granted then perception becomes even more important, because the way we look at a situation will determine what we can do about it. The influences (family, teachers, religion, race, environment, and economic level) that have shaped or conditioned my identity by instilling values, beliefs, viewpoints or a ttitudes that I have accepted without challenge serves as a perceptual block. The situations in which I am less of an individual because of these influences occur when I refuse to understand someone else’s opinion or look for other points of view because of something I have been conditioned to believe is true. I am not one who handles others opinions without asking for them. I am not very consistent in ensuring that my opinions are informed. Often times I have not taken careful consideration of the evidence and have treated opinions as facts especially if I have expressed it to the point that I have begun to believe it as truth. At times, in what matters most I am inclined to assume too much and take too much for granted. I feel the strongest urge to conform when someone is a positive role model and conforming to this type of behavior I believe adds value. However, a situation in which this conformist tendency has interfered with my judgment is following others because it seemed the lesser of two evils. All to often at the workplace this is how some decisions are made just to close an issue that ultimately will recycle. Additionally, I tend to jump or make hasty conclusions more often than I would like. This occurs more so in the area of personal relationships. I have learned that there ar e some errors and bad habits that can lead to shallow or uncritical decisions instead of careful judgments. I have gained the most insight from the following errors and bad habits, which are: Resistance to change (habits), Conformity, Rationalization, Stereotyping, common sense, Oversimplification, Hasty conclusions, and unwarranted assumptions. I think the real key to each the of errors and habits mentioned above is my being conscious of the tendency to do them and to get into the habit of applying and practicing the different ways or approaches to avoiding the blocks to critical thinking. This will be an ongoing process if I am to be in control of my own beliefs, and to somehow gain an understanding of the truth, then I must know what good reasoning is, and be aware of the ways in which my reasoning (and that of others) can go astray. How I tend to perceive certain situations in my life and how others may see it may not always agree with my thinking. This is a big obstacle that I will have to work on being better at and learning how to understand others perceptions. References Brynie, Faith Hickman. (2001). Perception. Blackbirch Press, Inc. (p 57