Luigi's Family Food Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Luigi's Family Food - Case Study Example Luigi’s Family Foods Pizza is also a frozen pizza firm in Chicago which has reputation in the market but recently the firm has encountered a sharp decline in the market sales and share. Marketing director of the company, Reggie Pantazi chalks out some future differentiation strategies which would help the company in reversing the declining trend of their market share and evolve as a leading player in the frozen pizza market. The paper in the initial stage will discuss the major competency of the firm and elucidate the competitive and consumer environment of the firm and then will discuss the pros and cons of the strategies adapted by Reggie. Competencies of the firm, competitive and consumer environment Luigi’s Family Foods is a medium sized company established in Chicago with a diversified portfolio of grocery chains, line of frozen pizza distributed regionally in the Midwest. The firms delivers pizzas with moderate qualities which are mainly available in standard vari eties like all cheese, cheese and pepperoni, and cheese and sausage) with various sizes as 5 inch snack pizza, 10 inch family-size pizza, and a 14 inch deluxe pizza. The company has involved in the marketing of the products through several advertising campaigns but there has been sharp decline in the sales figure of the firm for which many grocers threatened to discontinue the Luigi’s Family Pizza (Luigi’s Family Food Case). Among the chief competitors recently The Pizza Company introduced a new brand, DiGiorno with a crust that rises for the first time when the pizza is baked in the home, thereby providing the same fresh-baked taste as carry-out pizza and thereby creating a competitive edge(Luigi’s Family Food Case).The market for the frozen pizzas have categorized into 4 categories like the regular pizza (e.g. the Tombstone brand), premium pizza (e.g. DiGiorno, commanding a higher price due to the quantity and quality of ingredients and â€Å"eating experienc e†), gourmet pizza (e.g. Wolfgang Puck’s specialty toppings pizzas), and the less expensive â€Å"fill-‘em-up† brands (e.g. private label). Although the traditional toppings are the America’s favorite, but still the specialty toppings have become more popular through companies like Wolfgang Puck Foods. Among the other major competitors are Kraft’s DiGiorno and Schwan’s Freschetta which also possesses solid market shares (Holocomb). Evaluation of the five options as proposed by Reggie Pantazi The marketing manager of the pizza company, Reggie Pantazi sorted out five different policies in mind to accelerate the sales of the company. The policies which were formulated by Pantazi were advertising, extending health line, establishment of premium line, pizza pockets, and establishment of supply food service companies. But for fetching optimized results the company needs to formulate and implement a perfect blend of marketing mix policies. Mar keting concept and marketing Mix policy The marketing concept plays a predominant role in chalking out the best decision that the firm must adapt in order to maximize its profit motives subject to the budget constraints. The firm has to think from the production angle as well as the sales want. In the production angle keeping the customers want as the baseline the firm should realize its potential to develop the product. From

Impact of Temperature on Food Rejection

Impact of Temperature on Food Rejection Abstract: Fresh cut leafy green vegetable companies that operate cold supply chains can potentially benefit from information compiled about the reasons of rejections and discarding of products. Most of the time the reason for this is temperature abuse and decay along the distribution chains. This temperature abuse is what causes decay. The vast compilation of information that is available to the cold chain operators from all the departments in the supply chain starting from procurement to the sales and customer services helps monitor and improve the success of the business. It is beneficial to the business to find the underlying cause or root cause of the temperature abuse. This thesis attempts to determine the reasons behind temperature abuse that result in the rejection of the products. If there is a better way of transporting the products without temperature abuse happening to it. If the products distribution in specific packaging and different ways within the transportation vehicle. This thesis will use statistical analysis to analyses the results compiled over a period of three months of rejections and their underlying cause. The findings of this thesis can help operators of transportation cold chains better distribute the product by using the correct packaging unit and distribution arrangement. Introduction: Technology today to monitor temperature if the supply chain environment is fairly accurate. Real-time cold chain monitoring systems are easily available and are used in different industries of perishable foods. The monitoring of these products has made the industry a little bit more clear than before, as it used to seem difficult to understand the handling of products. The information is shared by the industries to their customers. Understanding the information provided may seem difficult for the customer as it may seem like large quantities of information that is not displayed correctly. . Specifically, this thesis seeks to study how cold chain information generated in real-time during distribution process can be interpreted and analyzed on order to reduce the temperature abuse and thus reduce rejections and improve the distribution of products. Numerous areas are possible for investigation: however, temperature abuse due to packing unit, as this may have the greatest impact on the cause of temperature abuse. Additional work will focus on the packaging of the packing units in the transportation vehicles. The areas and spaces that the packing units are put on. The way that these units are packed in the transportation vehicle. The fresh cut leafy greens will be the focus if this study. Raw materials processing facilities and customer distribution centers are the focus locations of the research study. Three processing facilities are studied and these facilities serve number of customers in total around the USA. The company serves these customers all year round and in all their locations. The products are processed, packaged, put into boxes and palletized, then they are loaded onto the transportation vehicle and sent to the distribution centers or stores. As the product is transported, the transportation vehicle is monitored by until it reaches the distribution center. The information is also recorded on paper. The information on excel files on the computer. Rejection information is monitored via a tracking system that notifies specific personnel when a product has been rejected, the location, the amount and the reason of the rejection. The product is then declared or denied if the only reason it was rejected was due to look and not quality or food safety. This data can be compiled and help the business find the underlying causes f these rejections and how to better avoid them. This thesis will look at a model that identifies when a rejection will happen. This will then help the business manage the supply SC chains performance and to take the corrective actions to prevent any product damage, financial losses ad to be able to respond to the specific events in the best way possible.

Ethics Essay -- Papers Morals Behavior Essays Papers

Ethics Ethics can be defined broadly as a set of moral principles or values. Each of us has such a set of values, although we may or may not have clearly expressed them. It is common for people to differ in their moral principles and values and the relative importance they attach to them. These differences reflect life experiences, successes and failures, as well as the influences of parents, teachers, and friends. Ethical behavior is necessary for a society to function in an orderly manner. It can be argued that ethics is the glue that holds a society together. Philosophers, religious organizations, and other groups have defined in various ways ideal sets of moral principles and values. The following are different approaches, from ancient and modern traditions and philosophers, depicting their meaning and understanding of ethics and how it can be applied in ethical decision-making. Utilitarianism was founded by the British philosopher Jeremy Bentham toward the end of the 18th century. He believed that all human actions are motivated by a desire to obtain pleasure and avoid pain. The principle of utility expresses that actions were right if they tended to produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. When faced with a moral dilemma, utilitarianism identifies right and wrong and also considers the consequences that may result. This can be regarded as an appropriate action, but offers no realistic way to gather necessary information to make the required decision. Confronting certain situations in life, there is no time to weigh all possible outcomes and decide the one that provides the greatest benefit to all; majority of predicaments allow just enough time for a person to act on impu... ...when it comes to rape or incest, I don't feel a woman should have to go through the pregnancy in this specific situation. So this approach, having to rely on principles all the time and follow them accordingly to every situation does not agree with me. It is helpful to read about these different theories but I do not think it is necessary in decision-making. Reading about these approaches does make you think about how you as person handles certain situations and whether you can improve your process. However, this only happens when you are required to read and study about these theories. If I never took this class, I would never have known the difference between utilitarianism and moral law and which one applies to me and my decision making process. Therefore, it is not required to read and learn about different approaches in order to handle situations.

Controversial Rap Themes, Gender Portrayals and Skin Tone Distortion Essay

The following six questions are addressed in a critique of an article entitled: Controversial Rap Themes, Gender Portrayals and Skin Tone Distortion: A Content Analysis of Rap Music Videos. This article was published in the Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media and written by Kate Conrad, Travis Dixon, and Yuanyuan Zhang. Kate and Yuanyuan are PhD students in the Department of Speech Communications at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Travis is Assistant Professor of Speech Communication at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Q1: Does the program address age-related patterns of disorder and competence? From the description of the program provided, it appears that this program does address age-related patters of disorder and competence, however this is inferred. The methods section of this article describes the sample as consisting on 93 sixth graders from five different classrooms in three towns in the Northeast. In statistical analyses, this sample of six graders was compared to a control group of 34 fifth graders from two different classrooms in two of the three same towns. The author indicates sixth graders were selected because they are considered old enough to have developed the cognitive skills and scholastic abilities to follow the curriculum. This assertion is supported with citation from numerous published research including: Flavel, Flavel, Green & Korfmacher, 1990; Singer, Zuckerman & Singer, 1980; Suddendorf, 1999). Additionally, fifth and sixth graders were selected because they are considered old enough not to be frightened or disturbed by violent images that were analyzed in the study (Cantor, 1994). And finally, sixth graders are considered young enough chronologically to still be forming patterns for media consumption, as well as opinions regarding mass media. The author and other scholars believe these opinions may persist into adulthood as supported by Comstock & Scharrer, 1999). Q2: Does the program target the appropriate age group? This rationale for selecting this age group is outlined in the response above. Just to recap, sixth graders were selected because: †¢ They are believed to have the cognitive and scholastic abilities to follow the curriculum. †¢ They are considered old enough not to be frighten or disturbed by violent images †¢ They are considered young enough to still be forming patterns of media consumption †¢ They are considered young enough to still be forming opinions about mass media Q3: Does the program include a representative sample? Based on the information presented in the article, this program does not include a representative sample of all sixth graders. The author addresses sampling issues in the discussion of limitations. â€Å"†¦.control group members were fifth graders, whereas treatment group members were sixth graders. Although statistical analysis accounting for previously existing differences in comprehension and critical thinking about media violence alleviates this limitation, it is nonetheless a flaw in the design.† Q4: Does the program address relevant contexts? Based on the information presented in the article, this program addresses relevant contexts in the following ways: 1. The school as a social context and an appropriate setting to access children in this age group 2. Media literacy as a socially relevant ‘context’ to encourage students to become active consumers of the media by questioning media practices, messages, and effects. 3. Violence in media that is consumed by children in this age group because violence is the primary concern among a list of ethical issues pertaining to entertainment media content (Lind & Rarick, 1992). 4. The â€Å"high-risk† factors in the portrayal of TV violence are relevant context because they are believed to constitute a particular high risk for older children and adolescents (ages 7-18) due to their association with aggressive outcomes in this age group. Does the program address relevant developmental tasks? Based on the information presented, this program addresses relevant developmental tasks for the sample. Students preexisting comprehension of concepts and critical thinking about ethical issues associated with media were measured. A part of the study procedure was to introduce, define, discuss each high-risk portrayal factor and discuss the general conclusions drawn from the literature pertaining to each factor. Discussion was a key component of the procedure and this may or may not have been developmentally appropriate even though the author indicates special emphasis was placed on why each factor was associated with a heightened risk of learning aggression. Additionally, the author uses ‘ethical responsibilities and social responsibilities’ of ‘media producers’ and whether and how media should be ‘regulated’. These concepts may be understood by some of even many in this population, however this information was not provided in the article. How well does the program address relevant risk/protective factors? Based on the information presented in the article, the author does not explicitly state that knowledge, comprehension and critical thinking are protective factors, however this can be inferred based on the commonly held belief that increased critical thinking skills results in increased protective factors. Likewise, the lack of knowledge about violence and inadequate or poor critical thinking skills would result in increased risks. Summarize your opinion about the feasibility and cost of this program. Based on the information provided, it is my opinion that this program is quite feasible particularly since it is only five 1-hour visits to the sixth-grade. Additionally, college students served primarily as staff further limiting the costs to implement this program and increasing the probability of it being sustained beyond the initial study if desired. Summarize your opinion about the level of evidence demonstrated for this program based on the articles you reviewed. The level of evidence presented in this article seems sufficient in some of the assertions and less than sufficient in others. For example, the literature review in support of media literacy was sufficient. The assertions regarding ethics of media producers and that they should be socially responsible seemed more like conjecture, although I happen to agree. Critical thinking is a central tenant to this research and the literature or ‘evidence’ regarding it was minimally adequate, although sufficiently cited. Space or word limitations often make it more difficult to thoroughly explicate the rationale in the background and significance section of an article such as this.

Argumentation Paragraph

All schools should have several armed and trained staff members to ensure student safety in case of a shooting. Some schools already have some type of security; however, these people are not armed to handle a shooting. The first reason schools should have armed personnel is to protect our students and faculty from these critical situations. Since 2010, there have been 34 school shootings in the U. S. The most recent massacre took place on December 14, 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Twenty-eight people were murdered. Amongst them were 20 first grade students. Innocent people are killed and no one can do anything until police arrive. Another reason is it will also give students and faculty members a sense of security while on campus. The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun. If the criminals know that the schools have these armed members, they might think twice before committing a serious act of violence. One objection might be that there are limited funds as it is for schools and their budgets would not support it. However, if they would use staff members already employed by the schools, the cost would be minimal. Another objection might be that firearms should not be allowed on school property for security reasons. I think the benefits of this would heavily outweigh the risks associated. These tragedies can be avoided or at least controlled to eliminate most deaths and injuries. We need to start protecting our children and our schools.

social security reform essays

social security reform essays THE HISTORY OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT Social Security Act aimed to alleviate the plight of Americans the elderly, retired, dependent children, and the disabled. The Social Security Act offered workers 65 or older monthly stipends based on previous earnings, it also provided assistance to blind and handicapped Americans, and to dependent children. The act also established the nations first federally sponsored system of unemployment insurance. Mandatory payroll deductions levied equally on employees and employers financed both the retirement system and the unemployment insurance (Social Security Reform). Despite its flaws, the Social Security Act of 1935 introduced a new era in American history. It committed the government to a social welfare role by providing for elderly, disabled, retired, dependent, and unemployed Americans. By doing so, the act greatly expanded the publics sense of entitlement, and provides the economic security that the American people desperately needed during the post Depression era. In this paper I will discuss the development of the Social Security Act, the comprehensive laws and their amendments, and the benefits that the act established. In 1934 President Franklin Roosevelt created a Committee on Economic Security to draft a program of guaranteed social support for all U.S. citizens who were economically vulnerable during the Great Depression of the 1930s. That economic crisis overwhelmed traditional sources of aid for the jobless, aged, dependent children, retired, and the disabled. To help deal with the crisis, the Committee on Economic Security recommended that the federal government create a national program that would establish a system of unemployment and old- ...

APA Guidelines for Correct Form

APA Guidelines for Correct Form APA guidelines have made the documentation process much easier. Using parenthetical citations, you can quickly and easily cite the works of others, avoiding plagiarism and keeping your paper clean. These guidelines have changed since the old days of schooling, and now have been adapted to encompass all sorts of analytical papers and publications. APA Guidelines for Correct Form Perhaps you know how to create a bibliography. But times have changed, and now the correct format for citations is a bit different than you might remember. The days of footnotes and endnotes are long gone, along with pages of citations, for each instance of quotations. What the APA guidelines have done is accomplish documentation with the least amount of hassle. Without unduly interrupting your text, you can quote extensively and give proper credit to the author. In fact, if you quote a single book 56 times, you only need a simple parenthetical citation after each quotation. Then, in your list of works cited, you only need name the publication once. What Are Parenthetical Citations? Parenthetical citations are simply citations enclosed in parentheses at the close of the relevant sentence. Usually these consist of the author or editors last name, along with a page number. These make for easily inserted documentation, and are usually followed by an alphabetized list of sources at the papers end.

How to Answer the “What Motivates You” Job Interview Question

How to Answer the â€Å"What Motivates You† Job Interview Question The â€Å"What motivates you?† question is a job interview standard, but it can be tricky to answer, and lots of prospective employees find they often have no idea what to say. The last thing you want to do, however, is to give a vague or noncommittal answer. Think of this annoyingly broad and open-ended question as a great opportunity to show off a unique side of yourself in the interview. Remember, interviewers are trying to get at what makes you tick with questions like these. Show what you are passionate about, what makes you excited and enthused to go to work- your answer can help a hiring manager gauge whether you’d be a good fit for the company culture. Say you love digging into projects and barely coming up for meals†¦ you’ll want to be in a more solo position rather than a team-building co-working situation.The best way to answer this question is to be honest, but revelatory, and to use it to your advantage. Here are a few strategies for preparing a killer answer.1. Think about past jobs.What happened during your best days at your last job? What did you look forward to the most about going to work? What made you go home excited and gushing?2. Frame for the job you want.If you’re applying for a managerial position, try to frame your answer to include relationship building, or encouraging your team to reach goals. If a particular skill is required for the position, try to frame your answer to show you being dominant at that skill. Feel free to mention your successes- just don’t brag.3. Self reflect honestly.Your interviewer will see through an answer that lacks self-awareness, even if it’s a good sound byte. Really do the work to probe into what makes you tick. Think about what sorts of projects inspire you the most, and try to get a sense of what really, honestly motivates you.4. Be specific.Just saying you’re a people person and love making the work environment fun isn’t going to cut it. Make a convincing case that’s relevant to the job you’re applying for. Talk about team building, sales goals, training, etc.5. Be concise.You may find there are a lot of things that drive and motivate you. Try not to spew them all out in your answer. Stay on message. Be concise and coercive. Your top three motivators are x, y, and z. And these relate directly to your job performance because†¦6. Be positive.Whatever you do, be upbeat! No one is going to believe you’re motivated by anything if you can’t muster any enthusiasm in your answer. Don’t go overboard, but show some spirit and positivity.7. Don’t be greedy.Even if money is your number one motivator, it’s best to keep this little secret to yourself. Choose your second best motivator and lead with that.

Personal statement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 29

Personal statement - Essay Example The marriage was rocked with physical abuse inflicted in me by my so called husband and domestic violence became the order of the day in our home. Eventually I decided to move out and seek a domestic violence shelter not only for my safety but that of my child as well whom I did not want to grow up in such an abusive environment from a tender age. During that time, I had no knowledge of the legal proceedings that married couples underwent in case of divorce and hence when I was served with the divorce papers, I eagerly signed them without even knowing that it was possible for me to contest it in order to receive a fair share of property from my marriage. However, I got a lawyer later on and it is this lawyer that helped me put my acts together and gave me the strength to go on living and fighting to rebuild my life once again. I was able to stay positive and overcome several obstacles until now I can stand on my two feet and be able to support myself and my son without any support. This traumatizing period of my life taught me a lot but what I remember most vividly is how legal help can assist women undergoing what I went through and help them put their lived back together on the right track. Many give up and face so many obstacles and challenges that lead them to destitution. Lawyers committed and dedicated to their work can offer skills and logic all based on law and which can inspire and motivate the women not to give up on their lives and that of their children simply because of the traumas of that dark period of their lives. I would like to study law simply for this sole reason of assisting women undergoing difficult divorces and domestic violence cases and who have lost all hope. I would like my experience and my legal position, skills and abilities be not only an inspiration and motivator but also a stepping stone to their ultimate

Introduction to Hinduism Caste System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Introduction to Hinduism Caste System - Essay Example People belonging to Brahmin caste are assigned the duties which are considered as sacred by Hindus. Duties like studying religious texts, performing religious rites and acting as a link between humans and God. The role of a priest in a temple is performed by Brahmin. This caste is regarded as the highest class of in the Hindu Caste system. The next caste is Ksatriya; Ksatriyas are allocated the duty of protecting the people. They are considered as warriors. They are allowed to study religious studies but they cannot perform religious rites. The third caste is of Vaishyas, people of this caste are expected to engage in agricultural activities, trade, and money lending business. Vaishyas also can study the religious texts. The lowest caste in the Hindu society is that of Shudras. The only duty dispensed to the Shudras was that of service. They serve the people belonging to other three castes. Shudras are prohibited from studying religious texts. The Hindu caste system reflects the noti on that duties of an individual are determined by the caste to which he belongs.   A person born in a particular caste has to perform the duties, assigned to his caste. People belonging to one caste cannot perform the duties of people belonging to another caste. The only duty that is shared by these cases is the study of religious texts but that also among the castes of Brahmin, Ksatriya, and Vaishyas.  Hinduism also displays tendencies, according to which God is considered as one Supreme Being and the universe is created from one basic matter.  

A report on based on the company Gourmet burger kitchen Essay

A report on based on the company Gourmet burger kitchen - Essay Example Finally in the last section we have suggested Gourmet Burger Kitchen to open its franchise in a new country Switzerland. Gourmet burger kitchen is a casual dining and a high market restaurant chain in United Kingdom. They deal with the wide variety of delicious burgers served with salads, and fresh chips which itself is a complete package. They also deal with vegetarian demand as they deal with delicious side salads and dinner salads. Apart from providing quality food, they are also providing an illustrious and non smoking environment which acts as a perfect blend with their casual eating (Dow, 2006). In 2001, three Kiwis came together and opened their first restaurant in Battersea, London, where they served the best burgers in town. Since last eight years this food chain has expanded to over 50 restaurants alone in UK. In November 2009, the gourmet burger kitchen 50th U.K. restaurant opened at Soho Wharf Clink Street, London (Rose-Day, 2009). But this food chain has not only set its business in the boundaries of U.K. but it has also established internationally and has opened its branches in four main countries; Greece, Ireland, Turkey, Dubai and Oman (Gourmet Burger Kitchen, 2009). Currently there are 5 branches of gourmet burger kitchen in Dubai and 1 branch in Turkey but it plans to operate and expand its operations in further countries. They have boasts its sales but is regarded as the London’s best burger for the last two years, further it is also considered as leader burger themed concepts. Not alone in London but they have spread their charm among the food lovers of Dubai as well (Hassan, 2008). Gourmet kitchen burger provides quality, unique and tasty burgers to its customers. They have specialized themselves in mainly burgers and due to this today they have 28 different yet delicious burgers on their menu card (Rose-day, 2009). Gourmet burger kitchen is operating successfully in all the countries from UK to other

Interview with a school princaple Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Interview with a school princaple - Essay Example It could be something as simple as the number of books a family has in their household or whether the parents are well off enough to play and stimulate their children. But we need a reality check. Is this true? Is this an all-abiding theory, which can explain differences in education results? The answer is that while it can occasionally provide some context, it is not really a theory and doesn’t tell us too much about the world. Some students have more opportunities than others, but there are many people from poorer background who succeed in everything they do. It is not a determining factor. That is part of the problem of social sciences is that they theories they propose are only ever contextual and not determinative. That is a shame. Sociology at its best tells us about ourselves and about the trends and demographics that are determining the shapes of our lives and how we should best respond to them. At its worst, sociology can be a sandbox in which different so-called scie ntists try to settle various political spats. This is much less interesting and important, but nevertheless often gets a lot of attention and research money. When we look at sociology and its possible impact on our lives we should try to do reality checks and expose phony and attention-getting theories so that we can focus on what is real. We need to focus on teaching in order to make a successful school. Supervision is key to making sure a school works well. In general, I try to cover a lot of ground in my school. I know the names of everyone on my staff and I try to be aware if any of them are having problems. The key, in my opinion, is to make sure that staff feel respected. It is not good to be watching their every move on camera. You need to give them room to be themselves. But also you must be vigilant. Generally, I get a good response from my staff on this subject. If I could change anything I would do my best to learn more

Assignment 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 15

Assignment 2 - Essay Example cussion by Timiraos in the journal article is that people who are not credit defaulters or have fairly good credit scores below 620 will have the opportunity to own homes at reduced interest rates as well as reduced percentage required for a down payment from 3.5% to 3% in the two leading financial mortgage organizations: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The program by the federal government has ensured that this is possible but not to everybody and not in every financial institutions including banks. What the federal regulation has not shed into light and which if not properly explained might raise hopes of people for nothing is that those qualifying for the 3% down payment are required to not only have perfect credit when it comes to loan payment but are required to have mortgage insurance. Having mortgage insurance is an added cost to the people and hence they are even better off with the 3.5% down payment that was present initially. The banks also offer mortgage loans for the people but they do not do so for everybody and are even afraid to implement the federal regulation as a result of the losses they incur with mortgage defaulters. They are left at losses and in order to avoid this, they select very few people to provide the mortgages to. All is not gloomy about the regulations as is evident from the increase in housing contracts by new home buyers. The sales and contracts from the time the federal regulations were announced have increased by around 0.3% and this is very encouraging. The prices of homes have been increasing which makes buying a house on cash basis very hard for majority of the people. However, with the new regulations, people are bound to get loans to purchase their houses no matter the price. The federal government is trying its best but with the slow reaction and more negative than positive results of the regulations, they are bound to ease the conditions and make better the regulations. The mortgage is most likely to get cheaper and more

Strategic Analysis of the Continental Airlines Case Study

Strategic Analysis of the Continental Airlines - Case Study Example This also means strengthening the airline's alliances and enhancing efficiency through the elimination of non-value adding processes in the value chain. Fund the future, on the other hand, encompasses the company's quest in ensuring its future growth by the reduction of interest expense, improving fleet plan, and developing hub real estate (Continental Airlines Company Profile 2008). The third component of the Go Forward Plan emphasizes the importance of customer satisfaction in CAL's success. Thus, in intends to position itself as a top player in terms of four DOT measurements namely, "on-time arrivals, baggage handling, complaints, and involuntary denied boardings" (Continental Airlines Company Profile 2008). This also means continue to project a responsible company image and improving its core product. Lastly, working together looks at CAL's relationship with its employees. Recognizing the importance of its staff in the realization of its strategic goals, the company's management spearheads in creating a fun environment to work, offer fair remuneration, and treat staff with dignity and respect. CAL is organized according to the different functional areas in the business organization. ... All of these business units are led by senior vice presidents who oversee operations and provide the much needed guidance and leadership. Recognizing the international operation of the CAL, it also opted to divide its operation according to geographic location. Thus, it also assigned vice presidents who take charge in the Newark, Houston, Cleveland, Asia Pacific, and Europe hubs. In order to facilitate efficiency in decision making, the headquarter assigns a certain level of autonomy to the leaders in these regions yet CAL can still be referred to as a highly centralized business organization noting the dependence of its satellite offices to the main office (Continental Airlines Company Profile 2008). Organizational Culture With the Go Forward Plan as its blueprint for success, CAL communicates its culture of excellence through its commitment in taking care of its financial health, future growth, employee relations, and customer satisfaction. These are the core values that the company utilizes in order to become successful in its operation. In addition, CAL also highlights its culture of environmentalism, community service, and diversity. The company promotes its corporate social responsibility through programs which enhances sustainable development through its carbon offset program, use of electric powered rather than fossil fueled ground equipment, and designing more environmental friendly infrastructure to support its operation. Though it limits its donation on in kind basis, CAL is seen to contribute to the community service. Lastly, the company honors diversity noting that individual differences in workforce should be honored. Management Style and Philosophy The management style and philosophy applied by

Assignment 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 15

Assignment 2 - Essay Example cussion by Timiraos in the journal article is that people who are not credit defaulters or have fairly good credit scores below 620 will have the opportunity to own homes at reduced interest rates as well as reduced percentage required for a down payment from 3.5% to 3% in the two leading financial mortgage organizations: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The program by the federal government has ensured that this is possible but not to everybody and not in every financial institutions including banks. What the federal regulation has not shed into light and which if not properly explained might raise hopes of people for nothing is that those qualifying for the 3% down payment are required to not only have perfect credit when it comes to loan payment but are required to have mortgage insurance. Having mortgage insurance is an added cost to the people and hence they are even better off with the 3.5% down payment that was present initially. The banks also offer mortgage loans for the people but they do not do so for everybody and are even afraid to implement the federal regulation as a result of the losses they incur with mortgage defaulters. They are left at losses and in order to avoid this, they select very few people to provide the mortgages to. All is not gloomy about the regulations as is evident from the increase in housing contracts by new home buyers. The sales and contracts from the time the federal regulations were announced have increased by around 0.3% and this is very encouraging. The prices of homes have been increasing which makes buying a house on cash basis very hard for majority of the people. However, with the new regulations, people are bound to get loans to purchase their houses no matter the price. The federal government is trying its best but with the slow reaction and more negative than positive results of the regulations, they are bound to ease the conditions and make better the regulations. The mortgage is most likely to get cheaper and more

Online Class Systems in the University Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Online Class Systems in the University - Essay Example Approximately 3 million enrolments in online courses are reported in the U.S.A by American sources. According to the Statistical Analysis Report February 2002, at least 3.3 million signed up in no less than one online course. According to the Sloan Report, students appear to be at least as satisfied with what they achieve from online courses as they are with the traditional ones. Studies show that public schools offer more online courses than private schools. It is evident that online learning has become a popular form of schooling with numerous advantages. This system, however, has disadvantages to it that should not be overlooked. The quality of these courses is not very high (Sims 54). Problems encountered in the online system of learning and their solutions The following are some of the problems that may be encountered in an online learning system along with their solutions: Computer illiteracy is a major problem facing online learning systems. ... Technology has proven to be quite unreliable and break downs occur at any point even when the system was initially operating smoothly. Students are responsible for their own progress and as if this is not enough, they have to keep up with technological advancement. Sometimes, something that seems as simple as establishing contact with the learning provider can turn into the most cumbersome challenge even to computer wizards let alone the novice. This may lead to frustration and discouragement which may cause the learner to discontinue with the program. The University Of Central Florida found that technical problems were a cause for students’ withdrawal. Even the most sophisticated technology happens to be unreliable and the question is not whether the system will fail, but when. A server hosting the program could suddenly crash and cut off all learners from the class, internet connection could fail or get disconnected abruptly and the institution hosting the connection could b e bogged down by users hence cause it to be slow or fail altogether. For online programs to be successful, the technology in use ought to be reliable and friendly to the users. This can be achieved by using systems that have been upgraded to ensure weak points have been dealt with appropriately. While online learning may be considered an effective method of education for the mature and self-disciplined students, some learners are dependent and have problems assuming the responsibilities required by an online system of learning. Elementary and secondary students fall into this category. Such students need to be self-motivated, organized and have the ability to manage their time well in order to successfully participate in the online program.

How Successful are Pap Smears?

How Successful are Pap Smears? How successful are pap smears in detecting cervical and uterine cancers? George Nicholas Papanicolaou established the Pap smear in the 18th century when he became intrigued by the guinea pigs vaginal smears as he was studying them. He quickly began to start his research on the female reproductive system, most specifically the different cytology slides he could obtain. His stake in the field was his book published in 1943, â€Å"Diagnosis of Uterine Cancer by Vaginal Smear.† It covered topics like physiological changes of a menstrual cycle, the hormones incorporated, and vaginal smears that led to his classifications of disease and malignancies. This jump started the screening for cervical cancer and can attest to a significant decline in cases of cervical cancer. Later, he published another book specific to just distinguishing between healthy and diseased tissue throughout the entire body. These two publications were just two of the four he finished in his life on top of awards and honorary degrees. (Tan, 2015) Papanicolaou was certainly a huge help in the advancement of cytology reporting. Since then, we have been able to learn and understand more about pap smears, cervical cancer and the role pap smears plays in diagnosing them. Although both cancers begin in the same area, the uterus; we can differentiate them by their pathophysiology’s. The question really stands, how successful are pap smears in detecting these cancers? This can be argued on a few bases, but sticking to the facts we can find out how successful they are, how they can be preventive, and what to expect if a woman does find herself diagnosed. Several factors can be taken into account such as the pathogenesis, level of disease, the manifestations, precipitating factors, and several more. Uterine and Cervical cancers both come with their own etiologies, epidemiology’s and prognosis. There are a few different ways to screen for cervical cancer, and this will look directly into the Pap smear procedure. The Pap smear allows for a better look into the cells in the cervix, the opening of the uterus. The test is looking for cancerous and abnormal cells that could lead to cancerous outcomes. In the test an obstetrician- gynecologist will scrape away a portion of cervix cells. The use of a speculum helps the doctor keep the walls of the cervix open to have a clear view and retrieve a good sample. The specimen will then be tested in a controlled laboratory setting where a technician will observe for abnormalities. An official cytology report will be sent to the doctor and then given back to the patient for further counsel if needed. Results will be abnormal or negative (normal). Several sources believe the Pap smear to be very accurate in the screening of cervical cancer. It also is a very preventive measure to take, as long as the patient is compliant with the doctor’s guidelines. By detecting cervical cancer early, treatment can begin to decrease the risk of spreading and growth of the tumors. Pap smears have been estimated to reduce cervical cancer rates and mortality by 80%. (Weber, 2017) In comparison, up to 80% of women diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer have not received a pap smear in the past 5 years. (Stà ¶ppler) CIN or, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is a precancerous condition of abnormal cell growth on the cervix. Intraepithelial means that the abnormal cells are growing on the surface or the epithelial tissue of the cervix. Neoplasia is referring to the growth of new cells. Signs and symptoms can be obvious but can also resemble several conditions that females could encounter. These symptoms can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sexual intercourse, pelvic pain, discharge, and pain during sexual intercourse. (Stà ¶ppler) It is recommended that women start getting pap smears at the age or 21. This is most important if you are HIV positive or have a weakened immune system. (Weber, 2017)   These screenings should continue from ages 21 to 29 with cytology alone every 3 years. From ages 30-65, women should continue cytology screening every three years and add HPV testing. After 65 no screening is necessary as long past screenings are normal and no high risk is present. (Boardman, 2018) Over the years professionals have found it difficult to all be on the same page about reporting. Some levels of abnormal results can include atypia, mild, moderate, severe dysplasia, and carcinoma in situ. The creation of the Bethesda System has given one reporting system for all health care professionals. In 1988 the National Cancer Institute held a conference for the creation of this system, it was then re-evaluated in 2001. There are four major classifications that make it easier for this universal system to work. â€Å"ASC-US: This abbreviation stands for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance. LSIL: This abbreviation stands for low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. Under the old system of classification, this category was called CIN grade I. HSIL: This abbreviation stands for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. Under the old system of classification, this category was called CIN grade II, CIN grade III, or CIS. ASC-H: This means atypical cells are present and HSIL cannot be excluded.† (Stà ¶ppler) CIN cases are most always caused by infection with oncogenic types of HPV or, Human Papillomavirus.   There are 12 known types of high risk HPV, which are the most prevalent associations with cervical cancer. Cervical cancer results from a genital infection with HPV, a known human carcinogen. Because most HPV infections are transient or, passing in and out of existence in a patient, it causes only temporary changes in cervical cells. (National Cancer Institute, 2014)   About 90% of HPV infections clear on their own within months to years with no sequelae. (Boardman, 2108) This makes it difficult to catch the HPV infection and in turn cervical cancer. Too frequent of screenings might be problematic for several reasons. One being that treating these abnormalities thinking it was HPV but that went away anyways would cause unnecessary stress on the patient. Also, putting strain on the cervix several times in any period of time can weaken the tissue and could ultimately affect the woman’s fertility. Interestingly enough, it can take up to 20 years for a persistent infection with a high risk HPV to become cancerous. (National Cancer Institute, 2014) Low risk HPV infections rarely or almost never cause cervical cancer. (Boardman, 2018) However if lesions are found and not treated, they are more than likely to turn into cervical cancer. (National Cancer Institute, 2014) There are different levels of cervical cancer that decipher the progression on epithelial tissue. CIN grade 1 is low grade neoplasia involves around one-third of the thickness of the epithelium. CIN 2 refers to the abnormal changes in about one to two-thirds of the layer. CIN 3 is the most severe affecting over two-thirds of the epithelium. 5% of HPV infected patients will acquire CIN grade 2 or 3 lesions with three years of infection. Only 20% of CIN 3 lesions progress to invasive cervical cancer within 5 years. Only 40% of CIN 3 lesions progress to invasive cervical cancer within 30 years. Genetics can also play a role in a woman’s development of cervical cancer; genetic connection holds fewer than only 1% of cervical cancers. â€Å"Women who have an affected first degree biological relative have a two fold relative risk of developing a cervical tumor compared with women who have a nonbiologic first degree relative with a cervical tumor.† Some specific genetic factors have been shown to be in association. The tumor necrosis factor is involved with cell apoptosis and a high incidence of cervical cancer. Polymorphisms, another gene dealing with apoptosis, have been linked to the increased rate of HPV and in turn, cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer related morbidity in developing countries, but is very uncommon in the United States. â€Å"Since 2004 rates have decreased by 2.1% per year in women younger than 50 years and by 3.1 per year in women 50 years of age and older. ACS reports 12,170 new cases of cervical cancer would be diagnosed in 2012.† Age related demographics from 2004-2006 were highest among women from 50-79. But cervical cancer is possible to be present in any sexually active woman. In terms of race, cervical cancer rates per 100,000 women in the US from 2005-2009 are across the board: Hispanic 11.8, African American 9.8, American Indian/ Alaska Native 8.1, White 8.0 and Asian/ Pacific Islander 7.2. Internationally, 500,000 women are diagnosed every year. Prognosis for cervical cancer is very good, especially when caught early. 5 year survival rates: Stage 1 greater than 90%, Stage 2 60-80%, Stage 3 approximately 50%, and stage 4 less than 30%. Treatment for this type of cancer is usually dependent on age, fertility or pregnancy plans. One procedure, LEEP, the loop electrosurgical excision procedure carries an electrical current through a wire to remove abnormal tissue. Cryotherapy freezes the abnormal tissue. Laser therapy uses a beam of light to remove or even destroy the cells. Conization can also be used with a knife and laser. (Boardman, 2018) In severe cases removal of the uterus, hysterectomy is sometimes necessary. Radiation, chemotherapy and surgery can sometimes be performed in other extreme cases. However like any screening test there is always a risk of inaccuracy in false negatives and false positives. (National Cancer Institute, 2014) In some cases a pap smear can be faulty and must be reported in an official capacity. Some examples of this could be â€Å"drying artifact’ or â€Å"excessive blood.† The person reading the smear could feel these are factors that affect the reading. Inflammation can also be a problem in a Pap smear reading. Inflammation can be from infection or irritation. (Stà ¶ppler) Uterine cancer is defined as the any invasive neoplasm of the uterine corpus and is the most common pelvic gynecological malignancy in the United States. Uterine cancer can also be labeled endometrial cancer. The most common type of uterine cancer specifically is endometrioid adenocarcinomas. (Chiang, 2017) It is believed to have two forms; type 1 or estrogen dependent and type 2, which is estrogen independent. (Holman 2012) Uterine cancer can start in small areas or â€Å"a diffuse multifocal pattern.† Health care professionals can usually diagnose this type of cancer by the spreading pattern of the tumor. Usually the tumor will grow from the original location. This can tell the doctor how far along the cancer is. Later tumor growth is seen through myometrial invasion and movement towards the cervix. The cancer itself can take four different routes to spread outside the uterus. Direct or local extends beyond the uterus. Lymphatic, referring to exposure to the pelvic, para-aortic, and sometimes the lymph nodes. Hematologic goes further reaching the lungs, liver, and bone metastatically. Lastly, â€Å"peritoneal/ transtubular spread results in intraperitoneal implants. Staging of Uterine cancer, like most cancers, will depend on the amount of growth and spreading of the tumors. Clinical stage 1, which is the most common for patients, is strict to the uterus. Stage 2 involves a large amount of the cervix. Stage 3 â€Å" vaginal extension, adnexal mass, and/or suspicious retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy.† Stage 4 accesses the bowel and bladder and some other metastases around the body. Although pap smears are prominent for cervical cancer findings, it is not as helpful in uterine cancer. According to my findings, there are actually no screening regimens for asymptomatic women. The only screening mentioned is a transvaginal ultrasound, which â€Å"determines the thickness in postmenopausal women.† In the suspicion of abnormalities, biopsies can be taken. Uterine cancer usually includes both surgery and radiotherapy. Other treatments follow a hormone regimen. Other forms can use estrogen replacement therapy and Tamoxifen, which is usually used for breast cancer but can be used on endometrium tissue as well. (Holman 2012) Because of the early representation of the cancer, treatment is usually successful and most do not progress past stage 1. Recurrences can happen and usually do within 3 years of the original diagnoses, which occurs in half of patients. (Holman 2012)(Uterine Cancer) Symptoms of uterine cancer can range from genital discharge, pain, weight loss, and change in bladder or bowel movements. However, postmenopausal bleeding is said to diagnose up to 90% of endometrial cancers. Another clinical finding would be glandular cells from a pap smear on a postmenopausal woman. Some risk factors are obesity, nulliparity, and late menopause. Diabetes and hypertension are also conditions that. Less than 5% of this cancer is actually diagnosed when the woman is asymptomatic can increase the risk of uterine cancer. (Uterine Cancer) Most of the patients diagnosed with uterine cancer are obese, which can affect estrogen levels. (Holman 2012) Over 50,000 cases of uterine cancer are diagnosed each year, leading up to 10,000 deaths per year. In women alone, it leads to 4% of deaths related to cancer. 70-75% of cases are diagnosed at stage 1. In 2009, the survival rate for uterine cancer was 83.1%. (Chiang, 2017) A large majority of the population diagnosed are postmenopausal and ages 50-65, average age of 61. White women have the largest risk of uterine cancer in the United States compared to African American, Asian and Hispanic women. However, African American women have a larger rate of death. Interestingly, those women living in Asia or Africa have a much smaller rate of uterine cancer than Asian and African American women in the United States. Smoking actually has been shown to decrease your chance of endometrial cancer. The use of contraceptive pills has also been said to be a protective measure for women. (Holman 2012) In conclusion, Pap Smears can be resourceful ways of detecting cervical cancer but not at large uterine cancers. Pap smears are a great screening method for obstetrician- gynecologists and their patients to catch and prevent cervical cancer. By detecting cervical cancer early, prognosis is very good and very likely in most cases. These quick diagnoses from pap smears and other sources has made cervical cancer a very uncommon cancer related death for women in the United States. Unfortunately for developing countries, lack of medical resources and research has made discovering cervical cancer difficult and fatal. With the Bethesda System doctors from all over can classify cervical cancer the same way. Pap smears are very accurate, but like any screening procedure there is always the risk of false negatives or false positives. Although Pap smears haven’t been shown totally reliable to detect uterine cancer, there are several other methods to find uterine cancer. The most obvious can be the presence of postmenopausal bleeding in women, which diagnoses most of the cases. Transvaginal ultra sound can be used to determine the state of the woman’s uterine tissue. These and a few others have been said to be more reliable than Pap smears. Counterpart to ruling out Pap smear findings, one source does tell that if glandular cells are present than it might be uterine cancer. Like cervical cancer, uterine cancer is most always found in early stages or stage 1 to be exact. This early detection makes it only 4% of cancer related deaths in women. In doing my research it was clear to me that Pap smears are in fact helpful in detecting cervical cancer but not as much in uterine cancer. I only found one source that mentioned findings from a Pap smear for uterine cancer. This was entirely interesting to me because they are in very similar areas of the woman’s reproductive system. In doing more research, it makes sense that a pap smear rarely diagnoses uterine cancer because it starts inside the uterus. The cervix being much lower and away from the uterus makes it easier to obtain cells and much more reliable. Finding cervical cancer can be much more direct and easily obtained. Getting to the uterus safely is much more difficult. In further research I believe it would be interesting to look further into minimally invasive ways to detect uterine cancer. Another topic is using the any findings from a Pap smear in detecting cervical cancer to relate to prevention of uterine cancer. Lastly, the result of cervical and uterine cancer on future pregnancy or on currently pregnant women. Works Cited â€Å"Uterine Cancer.† Uterine Cancer, www.csh.org.tw/dr.tcj/educartion/f/web/Uterine%20Cancer/index.htm. Boardman, Cecelia. â€Å"Cervical Cancer.† Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology, 26 Jan. 2018, emedicine.medscape.com/article/253513-overview. Chiang, Jing. â€Å"Uterine Cancer.† Background, History of the Procedure, Epidemiology, 6 Dec. 2017, emedicine.medscape.com/article/258148-overviewuterine cancer. Holman , Laura. â€Å"The Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer.† The Epidemiology of Endometrial Cancer, 2012, www.glowm.com/section_view/heading/The%20Epidemiology%20of%20Endometrial%20Cancer/item/236. Stà ¶ppler, Melissa Conrad. â€Å"Pap Smear: Facts About the Procedure, Pain & Guidelines.†MedicineNet, www.medicinenet.com/pap_smear/article.htm#what_is_a_pap_smear_procedure. Tan, Siang Yong, and Yvonne Tatsumura. â€Å"George Papanicolaou (1883–1962): Discoverer of the Pap Smear.† Singapore Medical Journal, Singapore Medical Association, Oct. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4613936/. Weber, Michael. â€Å"Pap Smear (Pap Test): Reasons, Procedure, & Results.† Healthline, Healthline Media, 13 Mar. 2017, www.healthline.com/health/pap-smear. Should Hate Speech Be Protected as Free Speech? Should Hate Speech Be Protected as Free Speech? Question: Should hate speech be protected by the right of free speech? Introduction Hate speech is a controversial and often misinterpreted term for speech intended to degrade, intimidate, or incite violence or prejudicial action against an individual or a group of individuals based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. The term has been taken to cover written as well as oral communication. My starting position is that hate speech is not just one thing; there can be at least four categories of hate speech that we can address. By the end of this essay I hope to have shown sufficiently which, if any, types of hate speech could be protected by the right of free speech. Right to free speech and expression Perhaps in a different era, the two could be seen as distinct, not just by name, but also in context.[1] The right of free speech is a human, political or civil right recognised and appreciated by states and their citizens. It is the right to communicate ones opinions and ideas using ones body and property to anyone who is willing to receive them. It was included in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.[2] Although freedom of expression is sometimes used within an identical context, it nevertheless includes any act of seeking, receiving and imparting information or ideas, regardless of the medium used. Perhaps the most commonly cited definition is the one given by the United Nations in Art.19 of their UDHR[3] adopted in 1948.[4] Along the same lines, Art.10 of theECHR[5]provides the right to freedom of expression, subject to certain restrictions that are in accordance with law and necessary in a democratic society. It is important to appreciate that the two are largely intertwined, and to be read separately would be of no particular value or help. For the purposes of this essay, I shall regard the two rights as two faces on the same side of a coin. Being part of a group of ideals or social goods even, the right of free speech is not specially protected from other ideals. It has to compete with such rights as right to private life, public security and democratic equality amongst others. There is no precedence that the right for free speech must always prevail. The wording of the First Amendment creates a defence for individuals and a difficulty for the state to regulate similar acts in the United States, as well as a desire to abolish the limitations already imposed by other states.[6] When may the right of free speech be limited? It can easily be imagined that the time, place and way of something being said or written or expressed in any other form is subject to scrutiny as to its appropriateness or inappropriateness respectively that is subsequently reflected in regional legislations. This is not normally objected to. There is another controversial excuse for limiting it and that has to do with its content.[7] A classic example is the prohibition of circulation of Nazi ideas in parts of Europe. This is only to be expected, considering that the UDHR was an attempt to stop the terror witnessed during that war from happening again. It is important however to understand that all is meant by limiting free speech or prohibiting hate speech is not preventing someone from exercising the right, but rather a subsequent punishment. Hate speech The prohibition of hate speech is often anathematised by the advocates for the right of free speech. Following Smolla, it can be generically defined as a speech assault based on race, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation or preference[8]. Brison attempts to colour it even more by defining it as the speech that vilifies individuals or groups on the same basis and which is face to face vilification or constitutes a group libel[9]. Waldron also believes that hate speech is a form of group defamation[10]. I would think that defamation is more suiting as we have already accepted that hate speech can be manifested both verbally and in writing. When can free speech include hate speech? There is, of course, a number of arguments articulated to justify the importance of including hate speech in the right of free speech, however, lacking space, I will address only the four that I consider of greatest importance. Discovery of truth This argument has two distinct streams of interpretation. According to the first, we come to know more truth if we allow a â€Å"free marketplace of ideas†.[11] Advocates of the second stream claim that allowing discussions promote truth and the interests of the right for free speech more than restrictions, as it allows for comparing and contrasting arguments. Scanlon divides the possible participants in a trade of speech into speaker, audience and bystanders. The value protected by both is truth itself; the speaker has an interest in communicating an opinion; the audience and the bystanders have an interest in evaluating and challenging the said opinion. Central to this argument is the importance of reliable and truthful information since it would be detrimental to knowingly spread opinions based on the unreliable and false information.[12] Note that this argument, like the rest, covers not only the promotion of views and opinions, but also of the communication of facts that do not invite evaluation, such as the names of professors in the University of Essex’s Human Rights department. However, as Schauer points out, this value does not have an a priori precedence over other values.[13] Livelier apprehension and personal development According to J. S. Mill we come to apprehend the truth in a more lively way when we confront people who dispute our beliefs or be confronted by them respectively. â€Å"So essential is this discipline to a real understanding of moral and human subjects that, if opponents to all-important truths do not exist, it is indinspensable to imagine them and supply them with the strongest arguments which the most skilful devil’s advocate can conjure up.†[14] Eric Barendt adds: â€Å"Restrictions on what a man is allowed to say and write, or to hear or read, inhibit the growth of his personality. People will not be able to develop intellectually and spiritually, unless they are free to formulate their beliefs and political attitudes through public discussion, and in response to the criticisms of others.†[15] Greenawalt provides further input: â€Å"By affording people an opportunity to hear and digest competing positions and to explore options in conversations with others, freedom of discussion is thought to promote independent judgment and considerate decision, what might be characterized as autonomy.†[16] The speaker here has an interest in influencing the thought and conduct of others through speech. Furthermore, according to Joseph Raz, the audience has an interest in hearing expressed ideas that may potentially reassure and validate their lifestyles. [17] Democratic participation This has been elaborated best by Cass Sunstein. â€Å"Free speech is to be protected because it facilitates the democratic articulation, aggregation and balancing of interests, and is necessary if the people are to be able to decide for themselves the candidates they think most suitable for public office and the policies that public officials should pursue. This argument links free expression with a ‘commitment to political equality’ and a ‘belief in democratic deliberation’.[18] The argument presupposes that the citizens of a democratic state have the right of free speech and are not negligent in exercising it fully. Democracy translates – loosely – into power of the people and by definition, for the sovereignty of the people to be effective, public opinions should be formulated free of any control or intervention by the government. As such, the speaker’s interest is in providing an opinion on matters of public-political life, while the main audience has an interest in hearing the views of others, and gaining an understanding of political views and preferences. The argument of the right of autonomy In considering a law that prohibits speech, Scanlon writes: â€Å"In order to be protected by such a law a person would†¦ have to concede to the state the right to decide that certain views were false and, once it had so decided, to prevent him from hearing them advocated even he might wish to†[19] He goes on to argue that that since an autonomous person’s reason is sovereign over her own decisions, it is incompatible with her autonomy to be shielded from certain evaluative views, or factual information, even if only to avoid the harm to her of coming to have false beliefs.[20] Greenwald describes such intervention as viewpoint discrimination[21], the very thing that the First Amendment is employed to counter. This corresponds to the right of the audience not to have restrictions on their range of options to choose from in order to formulate an autonomous decision. Let us now examine the kinds of hate speech Targeted vilification Speech directed at specific individuals or small group and with the intention to harm and insult the audience. The speaker consciously selects the wording for its potential to achieve just that.[22] Contrary to what Brison argues, I would argue that it should include non-face-to-face acts, such as cases when is not direct but sufficiently specific.[23] The content itself does not usually qualify adequately as an assertion of fact, expression of an evaluative opinion or even of a valid political preference, since it is usually based on false accusations. Also, the speaker cannot barricade behind the right of autonomy and argue that non-racists are privileged over racists, since having a right of autonomy does not imply having the right to be racist and furthermore clashes with the rights of others to be equally autonomous. It does not encompass the essence of the right, it does not promote the interests that the right seeks to, and it is not what is meant when the right for free speech is interpreted; therefore we can conclude that targeted vilification should not be protected by the right to free speech. Diffuse vilification This is speech directed at a friendly or of mixed sentiments but larger audience than targeted vilification, but nevertheless has the same intentions; to assault individuals based on the group they adhere to, or even the group itself, although they may not be the immediate audience.[24] It usually employs symbols or banners with group specific insults. An example would be the Nazi march in Skokie, a village with a notable population of holocaust survivals and younger Jews. There is an evident intention to cause emotional distress and so, any speech or acts employed and political symbols used could not be excused as such, but as insulting, harmful and intimidating.[25] A fair excuse would be that the allegedly distressed could avoid the march. To what extent this is possible depends on other factors such as prior sufficient advertising and the financial or effort overbearing on the victim’s part. This becomes more apparent when the cost to pay to avoid the distress would mean losing one’s work or avoiding communing areas or even becoming antisocial. This would clearly outweigh the interests of the speaker. Evidently, diffuse vilification promotes free speech interests at a far higher level than targeted vilification; it can take the form of honest – albeit mistaken at times – expression of political and evaluative opinions, precisely because it is not targeted but addressed to a wider audience, which could be proactively met and discussed with an opposing group. Although in its honest and fair form it should be protected by the right of free speech, in my opinion, the government has enough justification to intervene and attempt to control the manner in which it is expressed, and specifically by regulating the prohibition of speech, acts and symbols used for their potential to offend and/or to incite hatred and violence towards another social group. Advocating exclusionary policies Exclusionary policies are those that attempt to exclude certain social groups from equal participation in decision making and full enjoyment of their citizen and political rights. In its extreme form, this could include advocating genocide and ethnic cleansing.[26] The harm caused by a possible adoption and enactment of such policies is not easily outweighed, especially by the arguments for the discovery of truth and of personal development – for obvious reasons. Following the argument for democratic participation, such cases constitute political speech, or part of, which the right of free speech clearly intents to protect. However, allowing the advocating of non-democratic ideals in a democratic society brackets democracy itself. I do not accept that democracy should succumb to such hypocritical arguments. I agree with what Rosenblum terms as militant democracy who attempts to defend itself. [27] Even though state controls on political speech is restricting political equality, a democratic value, it is acceptable to do so when the speaker advocates anti-democratic values, even more so when they are advocating restriction on the political equality of others. From the perspective of the argument for autonomy, it can be argued that people should be allowed to exercise their right as rational sentient beings and consider, reflect upon, and decide for themselves which political speeches to support and which to strike down, without the need to cede their right to do so to any government.[28] However, how empirically justified is, or can, that be? What assures us that citizens will in fact make the right choices? What assures us that citizens will even bring themselves to consider such important and hard matters? Is it not the case that people who do concern themselves with such issues have a prior long time interest in them? How can we be sure that the citizens actually have the necessary mental capacities to fully comprehend the speech and its consequences? A democratic society is successful not only because of alleged equality, but also, because of alleged intellect. Following the notion of militant democracy not only there should be intervention to prohibit anti-democratic elements from exploiting democratic values, but also, there should be intervention to debunk, rebut and expose anti-democratic speeches. If the body of citizens is not able to comprehend it fully, the democratic government, assuming it is able to comprehend it, should step in. In my opinion, although this category is part of the general category of political speech, which the right of free speech intents to protect, it can take the form of anti-democratic speeches and incitement of hatred that may lead to horrid results. To this end, I conclude that this form of speech could be protected under the right of free speech, but the states should reserve their right to intervene in such circumstances that put into danger and jeopardize their very democratic nature. Harmful assertions of fact The notion that free speech should include the right to speak words that insult others, or saying what others do not like hearing, has become part of the modern society’s pop wisdom heirlooms. The combined promotion of the values of truth, democratic participations and autonomy is indispensable, even though we cannot deny that even these assertions can cause grave harm to individuals or groups. A fair objection to protecting these kinds of assertions I have found is what Margalit and Raz call the self-respect and dignity of group members, which are being threatened by such assertions.[29] This links to a reversed interest for personal development on the part of the group members, especially when it comes to social groups identified by ethnicity, where self-dignity and self-respect depends on the dignity and respect assigned to that group by others. However, can it not be said that a Kurdish minority in Turkey or the UK should be exposed for their practice of FGM[30] and to evaluative opinions and scrutiny from the rest of society about it, independently of their other dignity recognition and respect issues? In their extreme form, such factual assertions and evaluative opinions may lead to unjustified hate crimes and violence against innocent members of targeted groups. A classic example is the growing contempt that locals feel against immigrants in most countries. Even if top level surveys manage to prove that economic crisis, health system deterioration or other social harms are caused by immigrants, there is a huge leap from an empirical observation to undemocratic acts of violence. Militant democracy should step in here once again, not only to prohibit and punish such actions, but also, I would argue, to better regulate the matters revealed by such surveys.[31] Despite all these, harmful assertions of fact can be seen as promoting the interests embraced by the right of free speech. Even with harmful – but not extreme – assertions, an available remedy would be counter speech instead of restriction. This is possible because they are not mere vilification, but truthful and empirical assertions of honest intentions and therefore do not cause emotional distress.[32] In my opinion, a government should not be able to intervene by prohibiting the expression of such assertions, but they should be allowed to prohibit and punish individuals who misinterpret such assertions from resulting to hate crimes such as racial attacks. By saying this, one may think that I refuse to consider what some call group libel as hate speech worthy of being punished. This is not the case, since libel, defamation in general, is harmful yet untrue assertion. Even though some may disagree as to the context of vilification, I take it to also have an element of faulty accusations. Conclusion I do not see hate speech to have just one singular face. As I have shown, it can be manifested in many different ways, which can in turn be judged on different grounds. Therefore it is inapplicable to argue that it should be either protected under the right for free speech in its entirety, or not at all. I am of the opinion that some forms of hate speech should be protected by the right of free speech, because of the benefits bestowed to society. Some other forms should not be protected; states should take steps to better inform citizens about the different shades of hate speech and democratically establish legal frameworks to punish the ones that fall on the negative side of the spectrum. [1] Due to the frustratingly large portion of the first draft of my essay spent on citing relevant treaties and articles defining the two rights, and assuming that the reader is familiar with them already, I have decided to include the definitions in footnotes, as they do not count towards the total word count. I do realise that this is inelegant, but I am exercising my right of autonomy to promote my personal interest, namely of not being penalised. Forgive me. [2] First Amendment to the United States Constitution reads as follows â€Å"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.† [3] United Declaration of Human Rights [4] Article 19 of the UDHR states that â€Å"Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right Includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.† [5] European Convention on Human Rights [6] UK: Sec. 18 (1) of thePublic Order Act of 1986; France: Sec 24 of the Press Law of 1881; Denmark: Article 266 (b) of the Danish Criminal Code; The Netherlands: Articles 137 (c) and 137 (d) of the Dutch Criminal Code [7] i.e. the grounds cited in ICCPR and ECHR are content relevant. [8] Smolla, 1991, 152 [9] Brison, 1998, 313 [10] Waldron, 2009, 1600-1601 [11] Justice Holmes’ obiter dictum in Abrams v. United States, 250 U. S. 616 (1919). [12] Cohen (1993: 211, 229). [13] Schauer (1982: 23, 33). [14] Mill [15] Barendt (1985: 14). [16] Greenawalt (1989a: 143-5). [17] Raz (1991: 311). [18] Sunstein (1993: xvi-xvii). [19] Scanlon (1972: 217). [20] Ibid. [21] Greenawalt (1995: 32). [22] Greenawalt (1995: 49). [23] i.e. threatening letters, vandalism and so on and so forth. [24] But may be bystanders. [25] The fact that a march in virtually every other village or even a march in the same place but without the symbols would not constitute diffuse vilification but would rather be political speech only proves the dishonest intentions of the marchers. (Feinberg 1985: 86). [26] With notable examples the anti-Semitic speeches in Nazi Germany, anti-Greek and anti-Armenian speeches in Turkey, 1910-1922 [27] Nancy Rosenblum (2008: 412-455). [28] i.e. the ban of Nazi parties from political life in Denmark [29] Margalit and Raz (1990: 119). [30] Female Genital Mutilation [31] Although not relevant to this essay, I would argue that the right of free move and work is a lot like the right to free speech in the sense that it is important but militant democracy should intervene to prevent it from harming a democratic state. A failed example of this would be Italy’s policy which only allowed a very limited percentage of immigrants. Surely, a middle position would be more successful. [32] For example, a Kurdish should have been able to reflect upon the issue of FGM before encountering an adversary of the practice.

Poe’s The Black Cat and Hawthorn’s Young Goodman Brown Essay -- Young

Poe’s "The Black Cat" and Hawthorn’s "Young Goodman Brown" In "Young Goodman Brown," Hawthorne analyzes the Puritans’ consciousness and the hidden wickedness of their nature. He takes a naà ¯ve Puritan man and takes him on a journey into the dark forest to meet an old man whom we presume, is the devil. As the naà ¯ve Puritan embarks on his journey, his wife "Faith" kisses him good bye. The Puritan has an overwhelming feeling of guilt as he is entering the forest to meet with the Devil. He realized what he is doing was forbidden and none of his forefathers or fellow Puritans would ever commit such a sin. During his meeting with the Devil his naà ¯vetà © dissolves. He sees Deacon Gookin, his old catechism teacher, and other upstanding members of the community, whom he looked up to and feared, dancing around the Devil’s fire. He is told that the Devil has helped his father and Grandfather in years past. His innocence is completely destroyed when he sees his own wife Faith dancing around the Devils circle . He screams in agony: "My faith is gone. There is no good on earth; and sin is but a ...

Christians and Atheism Essay -- Christianity Atheist Religion Essays

Christians and Atheism The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians, who acknowledge Jesus with their lips and walk out the door and deny him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable. – DC Talk, contemporary Christian band There are three general reasons why Christianity turns people off: 1) The teachings of Jesus and the Bible are not appealing; 2) particular aspects of the Bible (or the Bible as a whole) do not seem feasible (such as the existence of Hell or an omnipotent, all-loving God); or 3) some experience with a Christian or the institution of Church is/was offending or repelling. This last reason why many people dislike Christianity is the most common and most painful for Christians to accept. It is saddening for a true Christian to witness the loving message of the Bible get lost behind the legality of the church (especially regarding political issues) or the hypocritical, unloving attitudes of those who call themselves Christians. And it is a grave problem for churches, especially in the sight of evangelism. The church needs to address the causes of such a turn-off from Christianity in order for it to be remedied. A specific look at how Christians themselves turn people off from Christianity reveals that Christian history, Christians today, and the institution of the church are all unique factors. Christian history is one of the first and most obvious reasons why some people dislike the Christian faith. Here we review some of the great tribulations of the â€Å"Christian† religion: evangelical movements in the Old and New worlds, Salem witch trials, Crusades, the Inquisition, and so on. In his essay â€Å"Why I Am Not a ... .... 7:1-5). There is a way to judge without making people feel hated or rejected. Judge without malice or hate, and always communicate in a respectful, loving manner. If the Christian body can hone in on this, Christians themselves will be a testament to the loving message of God. Works Cited Cahill, Mark. One Thing You Can't Do In Heaven . Atkinson, NH: Genesis II, 2004. Casting Crowns. â€Å"If We Are the Body.† Beach Street Records, 2003. DC Talk, ed. Jesus Freaks . Vol. 2. Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 2002. 2 vols. DC Talk. â€Å"What If I Stumble?† Jesus Freak . Virgin Records America, Inc., 1995. Muncaster, Ralph O. A Skeptic's Search for God . Eugene, Oregon: Harvest House Publishers, 2002. Russell, Bertrand. â€Å"Why I Am Not a Christian.† The Writer's Presence . Eds. Donald McQuade and Robert Atwan. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2003.

Is Joko Widodo a Good Leader?

Joko Widodo or better known by his nickname Jokowi is a politician in Indonesia and the current Governor of Jakarta period 2012 until 2017. Jokowi graduated with an engineering degree from the Faculty of Forestry at Gadjah Mada University in 1985. He was as the Mayor of Sukarta on period 2005 until 2012, before him currently being a Governor of Jakata. He was nominated in the Indonesian Democratic Party-Struggle to run in the Governor election of Jakarta 2012 with his running mate Basuki Tjahaja Purnama. He was elected as Governor of Jakarta on 20 September 2012 after a second round of voting in which he defeated incumbent previous Governor of Jakarta Fauzi Bowo. While running for the office of mayor of Surakarta, many doubted the ability of a man who worked as a property and furniture businessman, but after a year in office, he successfully led many progressive breakthroughs which became widely praised nationally. He adopted the development framework of European cities (which he frequently traveled to as a businessman) into his own city of Surakarta. Bases on Wikipedia, Joko Widodo was chosen by the Tempo magazine as one of the ‘Top 10 Indonesian Mayors of 2008'. In 2011, he was awarded the Bintang Jasa Utama by the government. The next year, he received 3rd place of the 2012 World Mayor Prize for â€Å"Transforming a crime-ridden city into a regional center for art and culture and an attractive city to tourists†. Jokowi has vision and mission to lead Jakarta and solve all the problem that is not the simple problem, but very complicated and complex. Jakarta is a big city and also has a big population. Governor of Jakarta is just as a political leader, but also to mange this city. Jakarta has some problem such as traffic and also floods if there is heavy rain and still many problem that have to solve by a leader. Jokowi’s vision is to make new face Jakarta, neat modern city and also humane, with leadership and good government and also serve the residents. To realize that vision, he also make some mission, that are five and one of that is make Jakarta as a city that is free from chronic problems such as traffic jams, floods, slums, waste and others. And then some work plan of Jokowi to make green areas to decrease the floods and also the reservoir to relocate rainwater. And also he will increase the public transportation that environmentally friendly, to decrease private transport users and would switch to use public transport and then more efficient and safe. For the conclusion, I think he is a good leader for Jakarta even several problems in Jakarta still not solve yet by him, but he still try to solve. As we know, Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia, the problems is not only one but so many problems. He should manage Jakarta to be a neat modern city and also he visited flood victims when the big flood in Jakarta for several times. That is to show his responsibility as the Governor of Jakarta.

Mario’s family Essay

Mario’s family happens to be in the lower bracket of society. As Mario got home one night, Gloria, his wife, asked for money, which they needed to feed their daughter. Mario told her that he doesn’t have money. Gloria didn’t believe him, and asked him to tell the truth. Mario told his wife the truth – he was fired from his job. The reason is because of an apple. He stole an apple for his daughter because he thought that she would like it – this part shows his love for his daughter. He left with Pablo, his old crime buddy, even if Gloria pleaded very hard for him not to go with the man. Another summary of The World Is An Apple When Mario got home. Gloria saw Mario and she was asking for some money to feed there children to Mario. Mario said that he have no money because he did something. Gloria didn’t believe on what Mario said and said to tell the truth. When Mario answered it, Gloria was shocked on what she heard because Mario lost his job. Gloria asked Mario if how he lost his job and Mario answered it and Gloria was shocked again because Mario said that he lost his job because of an apple. Gloria said that how can he loose his job by just taking one not a dozen not a crate but one apple and Mario answered that he just saw it rolling and he found himself putting it in his bag because Tita would love to have it, and Mario told Gloria that there’s no need to worry because he found a new job. Suddenly Pablo was there ruining the whole conversation and asked them if how is there daughter doing and he’ll loan a few pesos to help there daughter and Gloria said that no thank you because Mario stopped depending on Pablo. Pablo said that Mario’s new job was with Pablo and when Gloria heard it he told Mario that it’s a bad doing and risky. But Mario didn’t listen and walks away with Pablo and told Gloria not to worry because he will come back early morning and don’t wait for him. Gloria cries and shouting Mario, while Tita was crying also because he heard the conversation.

Sandy Hook Elementary Paper

On December 14, 2012, 20-year-old Adam Lanza fatally shot twenty children and six adult staff members in a mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. It was the second deadliest mass shooting by a single person in American history, after the 2007 Virginia Tech Massacre. At some point before Adam Lanza, 20, arrived at school, he killed his mother Nancy Lanza. He grabbed three guns from the house – a semi-automatic AR-15 assault rifle and 2 pistols – and went to the elementary school wearing black fatigues and a military vest. Classes were under way at the school.Approximately 700 students were present (CNN, 2012). Earlier this year, the school principal, Dawn Lafferty, ordered a new security system installed that required visitors to be visibly identified and buzzed in. As part of the security system, the school locked its doors each day at 9:30 a. m. The door was locked when the gunman arrived. Authorities now know the gunman used â€Å"an ass ault weapon† to â€Å"literally (shoot) an entrance into the building (CNN, 2012). When Principal Lafferty heard loud pops, she, school psychologist Mary Sherlach and Vice Principal Natalie Hammond went out to investigate.Only Hammond returned from the hallway alive. She was wounded. At 9:30 a. m. , as announcements were read over the loudspeaker to the students, shots were heard across the school. Students described being ushered into bathrooms and closets by teachers after hearing the first shots (CNN, 2012). Lanza moved toward two classrooms of kindergartners and first-graders, police said. In one classroom was Lauren Rousseau, a substitute teacher who was filling in for a teacher out on maternity leave. The gunman shot all 14 students in the classroom, law enforcement officers said (CNN, 2012).In another classroom, Victoria Soto, 27, moved her first-grade students away from the door. The gunman burst in and shot her, according to the father of a surviving student. Six stu dents were killed in that classroom. At the police station, dispatchers began to take calls from inside the school. Officers say the first emergency call about the shooting came in at 9:30 a. m. Police and other first responders arrived on scene about 20 minutes after the first calls. Police report that no law enforcement officers discharged their weapons at any point.The gunman took his own life, police said. He took out a handgun and shot himself in a classroom as law enforcement officers approached, officials said. Twenty students, ages 6 and 7, and six adults were killed at the school. Police secured the building, ensuring no other shooters were on site. Police then escorted students and faculty out of the building to a nearby firehouse (CNN, 2012). As reports of the shooting made their way around town, frantic parents descended on the firehouse where the children had been taken.By nightfall, the firehouse became a gathering point for parents and family members whose loved ones would never walk out of the school (CNN, 2012). The shootings prompted renewed debate about gun control, the ban of certain types of semi-automatic firearms and magazines as well as the effect violent video games have on society. Senator Dianne Feinstein of California introduced legislation that would ban the sale and manufacture of 157 types of semi-automatic weapons, as well as magazines holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition.The goal of the bill, she said, is â€Å"to dry up the supply of these weapons over time. † Unfortunately Senator Feinstein’s bill was killed in the senate and no gun control laws passed (Steinhauer, 2013). The attention has also turned on restricting violent video games from being sold to children. Researchers found that typical college students who played violent video games for 20 minutes at a time for three consecutive days showed increasingly higher levels of aggressive behavior each day they played.Other researchers have conducted a com prehensive review of 136 articles reporting 381 effects involving over 130,000 participants around the world. These studies show that violent video games increase aggressive thoughts, angry feelings, physiological arousal (e. g. , heart rate, blood pressure), and aggressive behavior. Violent games also decrease helping behavior and feelings of empathy for others. The effects occurred for males and females of all ages, regardless of what country they lived in (Whitaker & Bushman, 2012). The effects of these games go beyond making players more aggressive.People who played first-person shooting games were more accurate than others when firing a realistic gun at a mannequin and more likely to aim for and hit the head. Gender is also an issue when it comes to violence. Males are largely responsible for more than 99% of mass shootings. Being a male does not mean that one will become a killer but being a male in a culture that has some measure of gender inequality and links masculinity wit h violence does make it likely. (Raskoff, 2013) To date, no women have perpetrated such mass killings using guns.Women are usually less socially isolated than men. They are raised to be more connected to others and to share their issues while men are encouraged to figure things out on their own and hold in their emotional distress. (Raskoff, 2013) Social class is also relevant when analyzing why these mass shootings occur. The shooters tend to be young men from middle or upper middle class backgrounds. This could explain the access they have to legal automatic weapons, along with their invisibility to law enforcement and the hyper visibility to the media.Vandalism or acting out behaviors are perceived and dealt with differently at the different social classes. Shootings occur much more in working class or poverty stricken. (Raskoff, 2013) According to recent research, a link has been suggested between anti-depressant pharmaceuticals, depression and violence. Antidepressants are supp osed to make people feel happier and more at ease, but a study has linked several prescription antidepressants to an increased risk of violent behavior, including physical assault and homicide. In addition, they can lead to addiction and serious withdrawal symptoms.The United Kingdom has banned nearly all antidepressants in kids in 2004 due to the increased risk of suicide. The United States, however, is still allowing big Pharmaceutical companies to rake in the profits from these deadly, mind-altering drugs (Dr. Mercola, 2008). Entertainment is also an issue when it comes to violence. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, television programs display 812 violent acts per hour. Further, the typical American child will view more than 200,000 acts of violence, including 16,000 murders, before they turn 18 (Chou, 2013).According to Jane Brown, a professor at the University of North Carolina, The more violence children see in the media, the more violent vi deo games they play, the more likely they are to be aggressive in their own lives. She adds that watching the movie â€Å"Kill Bill† may not make people want to kill someone in real life, but young people who are naturally aggressive see violence in the media and think it's an appropriate way to solve conflict (Chou, 2013). There are many different factors that contribute to violence and we need to address them in order to curb the amount of murders and shootings in the United States.

Business programmes teach techniques such as SWOT analysis Coursework

Business programmes teach techniques such as SWOT analysis - Coursework Example The final part will be a summation of all that has been presented in this paper. According to Henry 2008, p.6, business organizations face â€Å"a constantly changing external environment and need to ensure that their own internal resources and capabilities are more than sufficient to meet the needs of the external environment†. Mere survival is not the objective of a business organization. Growth and prosperity are the essential ingredients of any successful business organization and the focus of the strategic management activity in a business organization. For successful strategic planning strategic information is essential. This information pertains to an understanding of the current situation to ensure the desired future. Such strategic information is arrived at through business organizations undertaking an analysis of the external environment in which they conduct their business operations and the internal environment of the business organization itself (Henry, 2008). Two key components in strategic management involve analysis of the operating external environment of the business organization and the analysis of the internal environment of the business environment. ... The main objective in a SWOT analysis â€Å"is to identify the strategies to exploit external opportunities, counter threats, build on and protect the company and eradicate weaknesses† (Hill & Jones, 2008, p.19). Leigh 2010, p.115, defines the SWOT analysis â€Å"as a process by which a group of stake holders (a) identify internal and external inhibitors and enhancers of performance, (b) analyse those factors based on estimates of their contributions to net value and approximations of their controllability, and (c) decide what future action to take with regard to those factors.† For a SWOT analysis to be meaningful all three parts of the analysis has to be undertaken (Leigh, 2010). The SWOT analysis is a necessary analysis for business organizations to face competition, through identifying and exploiting opportunities in the business environment based on its internal strengths, eliminate internal weaknesses that restrain it and ward of threats, so as to sustain its busi ness activities and grow and prosper (Groucutt, 2005). The SWOT analysis is a simple yet efficient strategic planning tool that enables identifying of environmental opportunities for exploitation, employing the organizational strengths that have been identified, with the objective of securing future gains. The SWOT analysis tool thus enables an organization to efficiently leverage itself to face and overcome expected competition in its business activities in an ever changing environment (Schermerhorn, 2011). The SWOT Analysis Since its emergence as a strategic planning tool, the SWOT analysis has been a popular technique used by organizations to gain an understanding of its strategic situation. According