Samsung Electronics Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Samsung Electronics - Research Paper Example Samsung specializes in mobile phones, tablets, televisions, DVD players, home theaters, digital cameras and other household appliances like washing machines, dishwashers and the like. Samsung focuses on innovation and it promotes its services through various global ventures and entities that are formed for such purposes. Samsung Electronics is a subsidiary of Samsung Group. According to the Financial times, Samsung Group was the world’s largest technological company in terms of revenue between 2009 and 2012 (Jung-a and Oliver, 2012). As of today, December 13, the stock value of Samsung Group on the Seoul Stock Exchange is KRW: 1,533,000 which is approximately $1,423 (Reuters, 2012). This is an appreciation over the previous trading periods which are shown in the chart below: Figure 1: Samsung Stock Levels between July 2012 and December 2012 [Source, Samsung Website] From the stocks levels identified above, Samsung is doing well in the field of business and it has commendable e fforts and results from its operations. The company is a leading firm in the consumer electronics industry and it continues to improve its services and offerings to consumers in different parts of the world. Samsung is represented in 61 countries around the world and it employs 221,000 people (Samsung Values and Conduct, 2012). The company is popular all over the world and it continues to invest in highly innovative technology and systems. This paper involves a critical analysis of Samsung’s systems and business processes and structure. It undertakes an in-depth analysis of the various components of the company and the industry and economy within which it operates her US wing. Industrial Structure The consumer electronics industry is estimated to be worth $260.7 billion in 2012 according to projections and estimates made (Elnadi, 2010 p4). This means that it is one of the world's largest and most lucrative sectors of business. The consumer electronics industry has an annual t urnover that is much more than the turnover of several small and middle-sized economies around the world. The industry's revenue base has increased by 30.6 since the 2007 business year (Elnadi, 2010 p4). This means that it continues to add up to its already consolidated financial worth and this shows that the industry is very progressive and it increases systematically with time. The main features of the consumer electronics industry is that it is highly competitive and customers in the industry are moved by brand loyalty (Elnadi, 2010 p4). The industry is moved by three main things: fashionability, innovation and it is research based (Kapur, 2009: p6). Consumers will always flock to buy a product that they deem to be latest and up market. Due to this, the companies in the industry like Samsung has to find ways of bringing new products onto the market to outdo their competitors. This therefore causes the industry to be steeped in research and innovation. In terms of strategy, the co nsumer electronics industry is ran through division of labor, a high degree of integration of different units often scattered around the world and it is affected by rapid obsolescence which sparks up the need for innovation to ensure survival (Mourdounloutas, 2011 p2). Due to this, the spate of competition in the industry is extremely high. The consumer electronics industry can best be described as an oligopoly. This is because there is the presence of a few, but highly capitalized large entities that are involved in

Design a computer system for a video hire shop Essay Example for Free

Design a computer system for a video hire shop Essay I have noticed that keeping customer records on paper can be time consuming and neither practical or easy to use. The aim of this project is to create a database for a company or an organization; I have chosen Vinnies videos. My database will include customer information to make organization and customer relations simpler; the new system will be more practical. An electronic database will make life easier as it will be superior to a card filling system and will save time and money. A computer system is better than the old card filing method for many reasons. Example, searches can be carried out instantly rather than many manual records being waded through, customer information for a hundred people can be copied almost instantly to a standard letter. Vinny will be able to keep customer information lists, detailing contact information, stats on the customers videos, lists of regular jobs that need to be performed i. e. check who has videos out; in order that notices can be sent using mail merge. This will help Vinny keep up to data and on top of customer relations and business. A search function for my database will make it simple for letters detailing special offers which are customer specific to be sent out easily. After considering the pros and cons of the two systems I have decided that it is definitely more practical to use a computer system over a card filling system. Strengths and Weaknesses of current system: Vinny currently has a very primitive filling system, It has a lot weaknesses. It takes a long time to find records, as they are stored in a filling cabinet. When editing a record you must remove the entire card and rewrite it, it is time consuming to add new records. To re-sort the records would take a very long time as it would obviously have to be done manually. To search for information is also time consuming, especially if you are looking for a number of customers with similar records for some purpose. However the database is comprehensive and does contain all the records needed. What I need to do is design and makes a new database with all the information from the old one transferred into it. There are also a number of programs that I could consider using, they are Microsoft word, Microsoft excel or Microsoft access. I will need to use a database creation package like MS Access, Fox Pro, DBASE II or IV or Borland Database Explorer to create my database tables, queries, forms, reports and macros easily and also program them with the Visual Basic programming script to make my database into a professional running program. According to the user requirements MS Access is the best one also because it is mostly familiar to people. I will need a word processing package like MS Word, Notepad, WordPad and Word Perfect. MS Word is the best one to use because you can use word art and insert pictures or print screens into the document and also is mostly used by people. Hardware needed: I need a computer that can run Microsoft Access and Microsoft Word just in case I need to use the mail merge. For this I will use a QWERTY keyboard for the manual input of data and the commands for the computer. I will need a mouse or trackball to design the database forms, to navigate the GUI of the OS and to move copy and paste data. I will need to use a 31/2 inch floppy disk and drive or a CDRW disk and drive in order to save my database and to make backups of my database. I will only use a CDRW if the database exceeds 1. 38-1. 44 MB. CDRWs can hold from 500-700 MB of information. I will need a printer to print out the design of my database of for word documentation of the database. The system should have at least 300 MHZ hard drive speed, and 5 GB memory, it should have at least a 128 MB RAM. Problem1: a system management to put the videos in order Form of output: a database Information to be output: video title, video director, main actor, year released, length and genre, how many copies are available and how many are on loan. Data needed to produce the output: video title, video director, main actor, year released, length and genre, which will be provided by Vinny. Desired outcomes and performance criteria: It has to be sorted so you can see a certain type of genre or year. Testing: To see if all the correct records are in the right query. Problem 2: needs a system to store all the members names and addresses Form of output: a database Information to be output: name, address, user number, telephone. Data needed to produce the output: name, address, user number, telephone. This is provided by Vinny. Desired outcomes and performance criteria: members details available so we can contact them if needed. Testing: not needed Problem 3: I dont have a system to see who has what video checked out and who has videos that are over due. Form of output: database Information to be output: name, user number, video rented, date taken out, date due back Data needed to produce the output: name, user number, video rented, date taken out, date due back. This will be provided by Vinny, anyone that rents a new video will be entered into the database. Desired outcomes and performance criteria: a list to see which videos are on loan. When somebody rents a video out all I want to have to do is click on the film name and type their name in. The rental time allowance will be 3 days and automatically entered Testing: see if the people who have taken a video out have a book due on the database Analysis of Strategies for Backup and Security. The system will be backed up on CD-RWs daily and on hard disk drives and a server. The database will have an encrypted modification password and it will be write-protected so it cannot be deleted. If a staff member needs to access the database to modify it, then a staff password is needed. It will not open until the password is correct Information Flow Error Checking To ensure that the information is correct the staff will send the members an invoice with their details they have inputted and attached is another form to fill in the correct information and then collect it and update the database. For the videos the staff will do daily checks on the database to see any obscure looking information in the database and will edit this info by getting the video and re-entering the video data again. Or the staff will do two copies of information identical to each other because the information will be inputted twice and if they are not identical then one or the other or both are changed with the correct information. Skills The user is a competent pc user and will not need any sort of training, he would like it to be user friendly though, so if any new staff join, it will be easy to pick up.

Review of Research Paper on Cold Perecption via TRPM8 -- Biology Nerve

Introduction: The first reaction to a minor wound or sprain is to apply ice. Cold's analgesic effects are a profound and under appreciated phenomenon. The nerve providing the sensation we know as cold acts to inhibit the "pain pathway." This wonderful nervous pathway is called TRPM8. This study indicates that the ion channel called "transient receptor potential melastatin 8", or TRPM8, is a primary component of cold sensation. Cultured nerve fibers devoid of this ion channel have considerably less response to the sub-ambient temperatures and cold-simulating chemicals that these nerves normally respond to fervently. Mice that have been genetically deprived of the TRPM8 channel also display a noticeable decrease in non-noxious cold sensitivity. Essentially without this component of the nerve, mice don’t notice mild cold, and actually have no particular preference to warmth. This appears to be true only for non-noxious temperatures (roughly above 12C in this case). Below that threshhold, it is thought that cold is perceived by thermal nociceptors as pain due to the extreme and potentially harmful aspects of severe cold. Methods: The analysis of this ion channel was observed on both the cellular and behavioral perspectives in an attempt to identify the biochemical properties and characteristics of the channel and the ramifications thereof in a model organism. Methods: Gene Deletion Overview: Gene Deletion: The researchers deleted a significant portion of the TRPM8 gene. This was done through PCR, digestion, and ligation, effectively stopping the production of TRPM8 ion channel. PCR or polymerase chain reaction is a process which uses enzymes and primers to amplify or modify a DNA sequence. Deletion is accomplished by ... ...ficient, producing concurrent and decisive data. TRPM8 plays a vital role in sesation of its temperature range. These observations lead to the fact that all senastion is a balance of multiple pathways. Any perceived stimulus is actually a complex combination of neurons all being stimulated differently and decifered by the brain. So when one is exposed to cold, the sensory cortex is actully receiving stimulus of the absence of heat, the pain, the local vascular changes, and cold each delivered by a specific neuron. This must be true for all sensations. Further definition of this fact could lead to break throughs in pain management, virtual reality, artificial flavor and scent stimulation, physical therapy or perhaps futuristic massage devices. Sources Nature magazine article "The menthol receptor TRPM8 is the principal detector of environmental cold "

Reasons Why the Stock Market Crashed

Dear Corrupt Government, It has come to your attention of the three factors that brought on the stock market crash of 1929. This is a very important issue to me and i believe the three main reasons as to what cause the stock market to crash. One reason is buying on margin. The second reason is the gov't creating easy money. The last reason the stock market crashed was stocks being priced hired than actual value. I hope you will consider my position on the issue and as well as the rest of my essay. The first reason I believe the stock market crashed was buying on margin.This let a lot of people essentially borrow money from stock brokers. In the article â€Å"What caused the wall street crash of 1929† they said buying on margin lead people to owe a lot of money from losing money in stocks. The article also mentions that this resulted in banks closing and going out of business. These are all very important facts to be considered when answering the question of what caused the sto ck market to crash. The second reason I believe the stock market crashed was the gov't faking an economic rise.In the article â€Å"The Great Depression† it said that the gov't created a fake boom through easy money and credit which was followed by a huge bust. This is then how the stock market crashed from all the fake economic rise. In addition, the low interest rates and low rates to buy on margin both made share holders want more stocks because they were so cheap. I believe these facts to be considered when choosing the three reasons of why the stock market crashed. The third reason why i feel the stock market crashed was the stocks being sold for much higher than they are worth.This meant a lot of people lost money and a few gained a lot of money. In addition, this meant that people who bought on margin where owing stock brokers a lot of money they didn't even have to start off with. In the article â€Å"Black Tuesday† it says stocks lost more than $26 billion in value and over 30 million shares and later $30 billion being lost from selling worthless stocks at a high price. This is why the stock market crashed. I also consider these facts to be important to making the decision of the three reasons why the stock market crashed.Surprisingly, a lot of the reasons are tied together in some way as I had mentions before. So, Corrupt Government, I wish for you to consider my argument i have shown you today in this letter i am writing to you. I hope my arguments are important to you in your decision of figuring out what the three reasons are for the stock market crashing in 1929. Let me repeat that my three reasons for the stock market crashing are buying on margin, creating a fake boom, and stocks being sold at higher prices than valued. I trsut you will see these this way as well. Thank you for your time.

Golden Parachute

Often in a stack of current newspapers, the front page topics that will catch your attention are ethical issues behind upper management compensations; in this case, on March 30th 2009, the issue that surfaced was Rick Wagoner’s leave from GM and his retirement package and how his actual/ base compensation doubled in his last year from approximately $7M to $15M. (7) With the current economic crisis, many people outside the business society have become aware of the ridiculously high income difference between top managers and regular working citizens. For instance, terms such as ‘golden parachute’ have been put under the limelight and are scrutinized. Golden parachutes are severance pays to CEOs when they leave their company. The amount of money is usually influenced by the size of the business and the effort they put in. The golden parachute was once used to ethically to compensate CEOs who sacrificed their time and effort for the business; however, this is currently not the only case. Before we get into more detail, it is important to understand that the golden parachute once had a reason for being employed. With many mergers and acquisitions during the second industrial revolution, CEOs were offered compensations proportional to how much their effort was worth. According to the Journal of Business Ethics, this was an ethical standpoint because it was followed by two positive effects. First of all, golden parachutes encouraged mergers and acquisitions as opposed to bankruptcy. For instance, the CEO would choose to merge with a competitor and leave with an enticing amount of money. This minimized unemployment and loss of structural capital which is result of bankruptcy. Another positive effect in using the golden parachute was attracting an effective management team. Great CEOs are essential for the success of businesses, yet great CEOs are low on supply. As a result, golden parachutes can be ‘recruitment tool[s]’ and can bring the business back into an economically stable position. In essence, golden parachutes were and can still be ethical if the CEOs receive compensations proportional to their effort that was put forth to the company. 1) However, although these compensation packages began as an alternative that maximizes the sum of stakeholders’ satisfaction, many CEOs began to abuse this privilege. Highlighted by the principle agent theory, most people would prioritize personal incentives above all else. Therefore, it is understandable for a CEO to pursue personal incentives. However, fiduciary responsibilities to shareholders must be reinforced by boards. It is human nature to prioritize personal needs, but it is unethical to harm the business or shareholders during the process. Therefore, whether or not golden parachutes should or should not be mandatory remains a moral dilemma. The question still stands; is it defendable that CEOs deserve and have rights to collect golden parachutes? In a current issue, Rick Wagoner, CEO of GM, was asked to resign by Obama due to his failure to submit a restructuring plan. As a result, he received a whopping golden parachute of $20 million. If the decision was put in the hands of many tax payers, he would not have left with $20 million due to his track record. According to ABC News, under his leadership, â€Å"GM lost tens of billions of dollars, took billions in taxpayer-financed aid, and cut tens of thousands of jobs, including announced plans to cut 47,000 employees by the end of 2009†. (2) On top of that, he was included in a scandal, late 2008, where he was witnessed to have flown private jets when asking for a government bailout. With such exposure, tax payers are petrified with the fact that their money is going towards a paying a company which failed restructure. Thus, many argue that he did not deserve the money since he neglected his responsibility as the CEO of GM to look in the best interest of the stakeholder. On the other hand, GM and the government had to, by law, give Rick Wagoner the pay since it was already negotiated; thus, he was entitled to retirement funds. As a result, another ethical issue may arise based on whether or not he deserves the pay. Let’s also not forget the fact that he worked in GM for 32 years. 2) On top of that, if a golden parachute was not offered, many capable CEOs will lose incentives and GM’s financial position may not be able to recuperate without an effective leader. In essence, the dilemma a remains in debate regarding whether or not the benefits of golden parachutes override the possible abuse of this privilege. To further analyze this case, this dilemma was applied to the seven step decision procedure. Moral Standards To start off with, the first step to the decision procedure is to identify moral standards. Since each stakeholder’s interests vary, there is a conflict among personal goals, beliefs and values. For instance, CEOs and board members take action to maximize their pay due to personal goals; however, it may not be in the best interest of the company. As a result, by pursuing this goal, CEOs and board members believe in egoism where they look solely in the best interest of themselves and consider it as a means to goodness. They also believe that with a capitalist economy, the government should not intervene and should grant businesses’ their freedom resulting a laissez-faire perspective. Similarly, shareholders also intend to maximize their income and personal incentives. In doing so, they value trust and honesty and expect fiduciary duties to be met. Moral Impacts The second step is to recognize all moral impacts and how they either benefit or harm stakeholders. It is also important to identify any rights that are linked to entitlement and/or duty that may be recognized or violated. The following chart is a cost/ benefit analysis if the government was to allow the practice of golden parachutes.

Nachman and His Relationship with Ali Massid

Nachman and His Relationship with Ali Massid Nachman and His Relationship with Ali Massid In the following paper, I would like to focus on Nachman and his relationship with Ali Massid Nachman interested me because he is a cunning character and manages both to make use of Alis generosity and not to fulfill his promise to write a paper on metaphysics. Besides, the way Nachman ends his relationship with Ali is also funny. He literally makes a fool of the prince, telling him that he has written the paper and mailed it, although he has not even begun writing the paper. What is more, Nachmans relationship with Ali cannot be characterized as a normal relationship between two men. The point is that Nachman likes Alis appearance, voice, and even finds the prince perfect, which can make readers feel a spirit of homosexuality in the story. This is how Nachman perceives Ali: He had black hair and black eyes, a finely shaped nose, and a wide sensuous mouth. A Middle Eastern face, aristocratically handsome. This description is intensified in the following lines: Nachman wasnt normally vain, but the stranger was not merely handsome. He was perfect. Comparing himself with a stranger, Nachman thinks that he is a gargoyle. Typically, men do not care about their appearance and compare themselves with other men as women do, which implies that Nachman is a feminized character. Being fascinated by Alis appearance, Nachman agrees to write the paper on metaphysics, regardless of the fact that he cannot write well and have done badly in it. Surely, it can be argued that Nachman agreed because he wanted to earn a thousand dollars, but according to his confession, he has enough money to cover living expenses. What is more, Nachman tells Norbert that he is writing the paper for Ali because he likes him as he is a nice guy. Although Nachman feels manipulated, he agrees to write the paper. At first, he does everything like a brilliant student. He goes to the library, find necessary books, and start reading them through nights. However, when he hears from Norbert that Ali is extremely rich and has a girlfriend an incredible piece and a cheerleader, he almost decides to break his promise, but the look in Alis eyes makes him calm down and sit down to work. Having read enough, he makes an outline of the paper and knows how he is going to write it. Nonetheless, Alis frequent calls and his phony faith in Nachman make the latter feel resented, and this seems to be the main reason for Nachmans deception. The culmination of their relationship occurs when Ali invites Nachman for dinner at a restaurant, where they plan to talk about Henry Bergson. What complicates the matter is that Ali is not interested in Nachmans ideas, but keeps boasting of his girlfriend, richness, and can even let him dance with Sweeny. Ali was flaunting Sweeny, even giving her to Nachman, though not quite as he had given him the superb dinner. Alis generosity had been reduced to an insulting message. Such Alis behavior made Nachman feel miserable and meaningless since the prince taught him how a person can live without knowledge and buy everything for money. That is why Nachman decides to break his promise and not to write the paper Having felt himself inferior to a richer person, he does not want to be bought once more and proves that money does not decide everything in the world. What he does to Ali lets him feel his power, just like he felt it when Sweeny sat down on his sofa. Therefore, Nachmans story shows readers that every human wants to have some kind of power, instead of performing the role of a puppet.

Concept of Employee Downsizing

Concept of Employee Downsizing Introduction and overview of the article Human resource is an important capital for an organization; however, during organization change, employee downsizing may be an essential strategy for an organization’s survival. Employee downsizing may not involve laying off staff, but can be done through freezing of hiring. However, hiring freeze, also known as attrition, does not always result in staff reduction; instead, it may cause staff imbalances especially considering that there is no replacement of retiring employees[1].Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Concept of Employee Downsizing specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Employee downsizing is defined as planned reduction of the workforce by either laying off, early retirement or failing to replace retired staff and does not include termination due to poor performance[2]. This strategy is used by organization to cut back the cost of operating. In addition, downsizin g is done to reduce managerial layers, hence speed up decision-making process, to increase productivity and increase core competencies, and outsource peripheral duties. There are various criteria that management uses when choosing the employees to downsize productivity, age, competency of employee and health or fitness of the employees. Generally, managers indicate that they use performance appraisals and evaluating skills of employee when selecting employees for downsizing[3]. Downsizing can produce adverse consequences to employees and the employer. Generally, employee motivation on those left behind is largely affected, which can be translated to low productivity. Besides, the organization can lose valuable staff due to voluntary retirement that may be difficult and expensive to replace. In the event downsizing is unavoidable, management should ensure that the process is done at the appropriate time, proper selection criterion is used, while sufficient communication and secrecy is maintained to avoid negative effects[4]. In another perspective, both the leaving and staying employees may be affected health wise. Therefore, this research evaluates the effects of downsizing on the health of leavers and those staying in an organization. This article evaluates the health of employees in municipal before downsizing and after downsizing. Consequently, the article tests the hypothesis that employees with health problems before downsizing in an organization are the target of layoffs, while the health of leavers after downsizing is dependent of reemployment. In support of first hypothesis, many researches indicate that, organization may consider the health of an employee during downsizing. Generally, various researchers suggest that loss of job due to downsizing considerately affect the health of employees.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Theme an d article summary The theme of this article is health trends of employees before and after downsizing. It explores the links of health problem with being targeted for layoff and the consequences of being laid off on individuals’ health. The research was based on two hypotheses selection and consequence hypothesis. The selection hypothesis suggests that employees with health problems are a target of being made redundant while consequence hypothesis indicated that downsizing increased the risks of health problems. Leavers were grouped into three categories depending on the amount of reduction of days worked, which included minor, intermediate and major. Consequently, they were also classified as reemployed leavers or unemployed leavers. In deed, this pre downsizing health problems determined whether leavers obtained subsequent employment. The result was that, employees who obtain reemployment after downsizing expressed better health than their counterparts did. However, the st ayers experienced the highest risk of health problems after downsizing. Generally, this was attributed to high levels of stress and anxiety due to strict supervision by the management. Importantly, the research dispels the selection hypothesis that claimed that leavers were less healthy than stayers were. Contrary to the selection hypothesis, healthy and more competent employee easily volunteered to leave. Authority, timeliness, and Bias The research was conducted by a panel of experts in the field of human resource management hence a reliable authority in the matter. In addition, it comprised of several authors who brought onboard wide variety of expertise and knowledge on the matter. Despite this, the article has weaknesses as it reports on a research done in 1990, which is quite a long time ago; hence, the findings might not be applicable in present settings. Finally, the authors have referenced many other authors who may contribute to some preconceived notions. Accuracy, Reliabi lity and Viability The research evaluated the health of both stayers and leavers, hence creating a platform for critical comparison. However, the research did not evaluate the reasons for leaving by the leavers. Data concerning health before downsizing was collected in a fairly stable time, hence producing accuracy. However, the findings may not apply universally as labor and social policies differ from one country to another. Primarily, data was collected from employers’ records and questionnaires filled out by employees, hence the data used were reliable. The participants in these research comprised of a wide range of employees including different sexes, age groups, and thirty-two variant job categories.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Concept of Employee Downsizing specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Furthermore, the research was conducted over three years duration, giving sufficient time for possible conseq uences of downsizing to be identified. Moreover, the research categorized the leavers and the stayers into smaller categories that aided comprehensive assessment of each group. Methodology The researchers used quantitative methodology research technique through consultation and evaluation. Based on previous research on impact of downsizing on health of stayers, the researchers sought to identify the effects of downsizing on both stayers and leavers. They used a methodology of testing two hypotheses selection and consequence hypothesis. Analysis, Significance of the findings The article illustrates the impact of various levels of downsizing on the employees, both leavers and stayers. Consequently, it outlines various levels of downsizing. The findings support the consequence hypothesis; leavers were exposed to physiological, mental, and physical problems. Moreover, the selection hypothesis is disapproved partially since there are employees who are willing to leave voluntarily and ar e healthier than the stayers are. Subsequently, the stayers in the job categories where there was major downsizing expressed more health problems than their counterparts in other job categories that had lower downsizing did. The findings can be used by social service providers in supporting employees who lost their jobs to avoid health complication. Based on these findings, proper structures can be formed by the governments to meet the needs of immediate unemployed persons. Moreover, the organization can provide safety nets to assist its employees to transit easily from employment to unemployment status. The finding can also be used to compel organizations to put in place programs and mechanism to aid employees during downsizing[5]. In quest for high productivity and effectiveness, the organization can formulate downsizing in a manner that would lower the negative health effects on employees[6]. Strengths The major strength of the research is that, foundational information and data was collected before any rumors of downsizing were spread. This is in realization that, the fear of downsizing can affect the health of employees even before loss of job has occurred. Besides, the respondents that were involved in this research were many, hence a sufficient sample to evaluate and draw conclusions. The data excluded employees who retired due to old age in this research.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Moreover, the researchers did not use reduction of number of employees as a measure of downsizing; rather, they calculated the number of days worked. The sample being worked on comprised of several correspondent from wide demographic and variant job categories, hence providing a viable sample. Finally, the article articulates its findings and methods clearly, and gives logical explanations. Limitation The major limitation of these findings is that the research did not include the reasons for leaving during downsizing. These factors can influence the likelihood of employees to obtain new employment. Additionally, the research included early retirees in the group of non-employed leavers, which can influence the findings, as most of these persons were relatively older and prone to health problems. Consequently, the researchers did not attain statistically significant percentages that support the claim that non-employed leavers have higher health problems. Several assumptions were appli ed during this research, which can influence the findings. Moreover, many other factors that contribute to ill health are not factored in this research. The research links lack of reemployment opportunity to poor health, while there are other factors that contribute to lack of jobs i.e. economic forces and competency levels. Therefore, the authors recommend additional research on how downsizing affects stayers and leavers. Nevertheless, the article is written by several authors that could have led to lack of objectivity of the matter. Summary The research draws a link between downsizing and the level of downsizing to the health of the affected employees. Primarily, this research clearly indicates that there is connection between deterioration of health and downsizing of employees. It suggests that non-employed leavers are at a higher risk of various health issues compared to other groups. Nevertheless, the stayers in job categories that experienced major downsizing were also largely affected i.e. higher levels of downsizing implied higher risks of health problems. In addition, leavers with better health have better chance of reemployment compared to unhealthy leavers, which contradicts the selection hypothesis. In addition, the research concluded that the average age of reemployed leavers was lower than unemployed leavers. Further, the health of reemployed and non-employed leavers did not differ significantly from stayers in job categories that experienced minor or no downsizing. Data The data clearly indicates a correlation between health problems and downsizing in an organization. However, in some respect, the research did not obtain statistical significance percentage to support the claim. Importantly, organizations and the local governments’ structures can be set in order to help employees to transit from employment to unemployment during downsizing. Employee loyalty Besides lack of motivation, employees especially stayers lack loyalty and commitmen t to their employers and their responsibilities is prevalent during downsizing[7]. Mainly, loss of loyalty is caused by fear, anxiety, and strict supervision. Additionally, employees are concerned about possible job loss, chances of advancement, new supervisors, and hence variant expectations[8]. In deed, lack of loyalty is higher in job categories that are more exposed to major downsizing. This can translate to lower productivity or even lose of valuable employees due to insecurity. Therefore, during downsizing, the organization management should formulate plans to motivate the stayers and restore employee trust and loyalty in the organization. Bibliography Anertez, Bengt Ekman, Rolf. Stress is Health and Disease. Weinheim: Wiley-VCH, 2006. https://books.google.com/books?id=JSXzO-iZElwCprintsec=frontcoverdq=Stress+is+Health+and+diseasehl=enei=SyhMTZ2pK5LW4gaD4IyODAsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=1ved=0CC8Q6AEwAA#v=onepageqf=false . Diane publishing Company. Workforce Reduction: Downsizing strategies used in selected organizations. NY: Diane Publishing, 1995. https://books.google.com/books?id=BwUNAAAAIAAJpg=PA25dq=Diane+publishing+Company:+Workforce+Reduction:+Downsizing+strategies+used+in+selected+organizations.+Diane+Publishing,+1995hl=enei=gyhMTfynF4_qOdmsoOAPsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=1ved=0CCgQ6AEwAA#v=onepageqf=false . Roussea, Denise. Psychological contracts in organizations: understanding written and unwritten agreements. California: Sage, 1995. https://books.google.com/books?id=FG1qprRMUlECprintsec=frontcoverdq=Psychological+contracts+in+organizations:+understanding+written+and+unwritten+agreements+California,+Sage,+1995hl=enei=5ChMTYygMY704Qb2ntiuDAsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=1ved=0CCwQ6AEwAA#v=onepageqf=false . Shalhoub, Zeinab Karake, Zeinab. Organizational downsizing, discrimination and corporate social responsibility. CT: Greenwood Publishing Group, 1999. https://books.google.com/books?id=B_T7lvd0mHECpg=PA96dq=Organizational+down sizing,+discrimination+and+corporate+social+responsibility.USA,+Greenwood+Publishing+Group,+1999hl=enei=GylMTdY0oLDgBsOJgfgLsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=1ved=0CCsQ6AEwAA#v=onepageqf=false . Yankelovich, Daniel. Mother Jones Magazine, Vol. 22, No. 4, Jul-Aug 1997. Mother Jones Publisher, 1997. https://books.google.com/books?id=oOcDAAAAMBAJpg=PT63dq=employee+loyalty+during+downsizinghl=enei=5BxMTdOVMoXrOZqAiSQsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=4ved=0CDYQ6AEwAw#v=onepageqf=false . Footnotes Diane publishing Company, Workforce Reduction: Downsizing strategies used in selected organizations, (NY: Diane Publishing, 1995), p. 6. Denise Roussea, Psychological contracts in organizations: understanding written and unwritten agreements, (California: Sage, 1995), p.212. Diane publishing Company, ibid, p.31 Zeinab Shalhoub Zeinab Karake, Organizational downsizing, discrimination and corporate social responsibility, (CT: Greenwood Publishing Group, 1999), p.60. Diane publishing Company, ibi d, p.35 Bengt Anertez Rolf Ekman Stress is Health and Disease (Weinheim: Wiley-VCH, 2006), p.106. Daniel Yankelovich, Mother Jones Magazine, Jul-Aug 1997 Vol. 22, No. 4 (NY: mother Jones Publisher, 1997), p.60 Diane publishing Company, ibid, p.32

Chinese Head Tax and the Chinese Exclusion Act in Canada

Chinese Head Tax and the Chinese Exclusion Act in Canada The first large influx of Chinese immigrants to stay in Canada came north from San Francisco following the gold rush to the Fraser River Valley in 1858. In the 1860s many moved on to prospect for gold in the Cariboo Mountains of British Columbia. When workers were needed for the Canadian Pacific Railway, many were brought directly from China. From 1880 to 1885 about 17,000 Chinese laborers helped build the difficult and dangerous British Columbia section of the railway. In spite of their contributions, there was a great deal of prejudice against the Chinese, and they were paid only half the wage of white workers. Chinese Immigration Act and the Chinese Head Tax When the railway was finished and cheap labor in large numbers was no longer needed, there was a backlash from union workers and some politicians against the Chinese. After a Royal Commission on Chinese Immigration, the Canadian federal government passed the Chinese Immigration Act in 1885, putting a head tax of $50 on Chinese immigrants in the hopes of discouraging them from entering Canada. In 1900 the head tax was increased to $100. In 1903 the head tax went up to $500, which was about two years pay. The Canadian federal government collected about $23 million from the Chinese head tax. In the early 1900s, prejudice against Chinese and Japanese was further exacerbated when they were used as strikebreakers at coal mines in British Columbia. An economic slump in Vancouver set the stage for a full-scale riot in 1907. Leaders of the Asiatic Exclusion League stirred a parade into a frenzy of 8000 men looting and burning their way through Chinatown. With the outbreak of World War I, Chinese labor was needed in Canada again. In the last two years of the war, the number of Chinese immigrants increased to 4000 a year. When the war ended and soldiers returned to Canada looking for work, there was another backlash against the Chinese. It wasnt just the increase in numbers that caused alarm, but also the fact that the Chinese had moved into owning land and farms. The economic recession in the early 1920s added to the resentment. Canadian Chinese Exclusion Act In 1923, Canada passed the Chinese Exclusion Act, which in effect stopped Chinese immigration to Canada for nearly a quarter of a century. July 1, 1923, the day the Canadian Chinese Exclusion Act came into effect, is known as humiliation day. The Chinese population in Canada went from 46,500 in 1931 to about 32,500 in 1951. The Chinese Exclusion Act was in effect until 1947. In that same year, Chinese Canadians regained the right to vote in Canadian federal elections. It wasnt until 1967 that the final elements of the Chinese Exclusion Act were completely eliminated. Canadian Government Apologizes for Chinese Head Tax On June 22, 2006, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper made a speech in the House of Commons giving a formal apology for the use of a head tax and the exclusion of Chinese immigrants to Canada.

Marketing management for the service industry Lab Report - 1

Marketing management for the service industry - Lab Report Example As a result of its success especially in providing quality services in an environmental friendly manner, in addition its marketing strategy, a case study on the company is going to be analyzed, researched. An analysis will be offered in relations to the company’s services and marketing strategy. Banyan Tree Resorts (BTR) currently offers a wide array of facilities and services that can constitute to a luxury resort experience. This is much so when related to the prices they are offering and the type of market or clients that are targeted and access services. A luxurious resort experience contains a number of things ranging from the type of services, the quality of services, the price offered, type and quality of facilities available among others. In relation to this, the following discussions identifies the services and facilities at BTR and provides the justifications for the reasons why the two (services and facilities) constitute to a luxurious resort experience. The BTR resorts around Asia offer a variety of facilities that enhance the experience of clients to a whole new level. First and Foremost, the resort’s units are mostly constructed on natural environments that involve making minor adjustments such as including a few added artificial features or removing a few natural features. This is, when the units are constructed, it involves removing a few of natural aspects that might not provide a comfortable experience and at the same time, add a few artificial aspects such as electricity lighting among others. This in addition with the use of local furnishings created from local materials constitutes to a natural, peaceful, relaxing and enjoyable experience. The location and construction of the resort units is usually one of the key contributing factors of a luxurious resort experience that most hotels in crowded and noisy cities are unable to provide. This feature is in line with the company’s vision and mission of providing c lients with an

Compare and Contrast the Culture, Mission, and Vision of Profit and Research Paper

Compare and Contrast the Culture, Mission, and Vision of Profit and Nonprofit Organizations - Research Paper Example In cash basis accounting method financial information is recorded according to real time cash flow. Again under the accrual basis system, revenue is recorded when it is earned rather that when the payment is received. Profitable organizations maintain their financial records by following a standard accounting system but this system may not be followed by a non profitable organization as their nature of work is different than the profitable organization. In this regard this can be said that both types of organization will never follow similar type of accounting method for the business activities. This report will compare and contrast the accounting methods which are applied in profitable and non profitable organization. The accountants of one profitable and one non profitable organization are providing the information about the accounting standard followed by those companies in their interview session. Here the profitable organization is Apple Inc which is an American multinational co mpany which manufactures computer software, consumer electronics, personal computers and online services. The example of non profitable organization is Virginia Community Capital, Inc. It is a nonprofit banking entity and community development financial institution. This organization provides innovative investment solutions and loan for economic developmental projects and affordable housing in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Huge differences can be observed in case of accounting system for nonprofit and profitable organization. In case of profitable organization this can be said that this kind of business has started for providing benefits to the business owners and shareholders of the company. For this reason profit is one of the major goals of these businesses and company has to pay tax on the amount of profit. But in case nonprofit organization this can be

Will Globalisation Lead to the End of the 'Third World' Essay

Will Globalisation Lead to the End of the 'Third World' - Essay Example Globalisation has been termed as the key to end poverty and gaining of financial stability in the countries all over the world. Globalisation can be simply termed as the increasing of relationships between culture, people and economic activities. Globalisation is characterised by more cheaper trading fees like exports and imports. In many instances globalisation is referred to as economic globalisation. Economic globalisation is the global distribution of produced goods and services. With globalisation, freedom to trade and to business has become a norm in the globe (Bhagwati, 2004). Countries are given the opportunity to trade with all other countries across the globe. It is further facilitated by the reduced fees of levies, taxes and import quotas. Prior to globalisation, the global economy was controlled by specific groups. In those days, the freedom to trade was not a norm. Business people had to pay heavy fees to governing bodies just to operate a small business. In the days of cold war, global trade was very expensive and biased. It is due to this that the global economy was growing at a very slow rate (Blomsrom & Hettne, 1984). The prices of exporting and importing products were high enough to hinder an ordinary merchant to conduct the business. This left militaries and governments as the only bodies with a comfortable run in the global market. It is during this period that many counties failed to grow economically and remained in bad economic positions up to today. However, with globalisation the economic trend of these third world countries is changing significantly. With economic and trading freedom, third world countries are striving to get an economic advantage in the global economy. Is this trend purely caused by globalisation? This paper will focus on the impacts that globalisation has brought to the third world countries. It will also look at the future of the third world countries under globalisation, and if globalisation will lead to the end of the third world. It was predicted that there would be a rapid development in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The growth would be enough to bridge the gap between the developing and developed states. According to Chew & Denemark (1996) the gap will be reduced until to the level that it would be insignificant and meaningless. This will provide a level ground of trading among all nations. These developments are said to be most beneficial to the poorest nations. In Africa, Asia and Latin America the desperation of success is growing each and every day among individuals. With the success trail made easier by globalisation, everyone in the developing nations see a future of success in them (De Beer & Swanapoel, 2000). This leads to innovation and entrepreneurship among them. If the trend of striving for success continues in the third world countries, third world countries will be no more. However, some critics argue that the development of third world countries in not due to globalisatio n but the need to get better lives. As much as the argument holds some truth, the developing global economy also has a crucial role in the success of developing countries. Globalisation has opened many opportunities for a global development. However, these opportunities are not evenly distributed because some states are being incorporated in the global economy more rapidly than the others (Burnell, 2008). This is mainly caused by the difference in governance of financial positions of the nations. With proper policies third countries have a probability of having the greater piece of the cake in the global economy. For instance, in the 1970s and 1980s Africa and Latin America implemented economic policies which focussed more on internal financial development. What followed was

Journal 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Journal 4 - Essay Example Their experience showed that contrary to common sense, aggression, accidents and the stress of enforcing rules are all reduced and transformed when rules were discarded by the staff in a collaborative process. There were three non-profit site centers (63 students in a university campus, 42 children in a workplace setting, and 32 children in high school). All are in inclusive settings with resource teacher consultants for children with special needs. There was a lot of diversity in the three centers including speakers of English as a second language, newly arrived immigrants, children from a single parent family, etc. All centers were practicing the conventional way, which was rule-based. There was an abundance of Do’s and Don’ts, in other words, over-regulation, which was suffocating the children. They also found out that it was draining the teachers just policing and redirecting the children. Finally, they found out that there was a better way of doing these things. With the influence of the Reggio Emilia Approach in their series of workshops, they were able to question old concepts and approaches. They initiated new and innovative ways to make learning more meaningful and stress-free. The operative word was â€Å"collaboration†. With brilliant results emanating from the reduction of rules in a setting, it also led to explorations with the physical environment, such as redesigning the layout of the cots at naptime, enlarging the block area from 4 ft by 6 ft to 10 ft by 20 ft, thereby giving ample space to chidren with better results. They also started redecorating their environs with Monet prints, flowers and even the bathrooms to make for a calmer effect on the children. As a result, the rule-driven, clock-driven practice was changed into values-based, responsive pedagogy. Of course, there were some who were resistant to change. Eventually, they had to embrace the new innovation because it lessened

Internet and social media marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Internet and social media marketing - Essay Example The researcher states that Line is one of the Chat Apps that is increasing becoming a popular method for the celebrities to reach out to their fans. The fans are also looking to use the same method as there is a difference between the interaction on the social media platforms and on the Chat Apps. The personal connection and response to the different questions with the celebrities that are instant make the features of the Apps more favorable. Korean Lee Min should, therefore, ensure that he engages the fans through Line by creating a profile and a persona that is attractive to the fans. One of the main aspects that he should assess is the direction and the people that he wants to reach out to and connect with while on the show. This will ensure that the celeb is able to choose the method that he should use in the show. This can be the video advertisement or other methods that are within Line as an engaging application. He should also assess his strengths and weaknesses. Â  It is imp ortant to understand the different dynamics that will ensure that one gets through to the people and look for the factors that make one popular thereby ensuring that one reaches out to the people through the same attributes or advertising these attributes. Using these platforms to reach out to the fans is also similar to advertising products in the market where on has to give the best qualities of the product depending on the target market. Learning from the different aspects of the method from the past experiences with the same platform or other internet based methods is also important.

Journal 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Journal 4 - Essay Example Their experience showed that contrary to common sense, aggression, accidents and the stress of enforcing rules are all reduced and transformed when rules were discarded by the staff in a collaborative process. There were three non-profit site centers (63 students in a university campus, 42 children in a workplace setting, and 32 children in high school). All are in inclusive settings with resource teacher consultants for children with special needs. There was a lot of diversity in the three centers including speakers of English as a second language, newly arrived immigrants, children from a single parent family, etc. All centers were practicing the conventional way, which was rule-based. There was an abundance of Do’s and Don’ts, in other words, over-regulation, which was suffocating the children. They also found out that it was draining the teachers just policing and redirecting the children. Finally, they found out that there was a better way of doing these things. With the influence of the Reggio Emilia Approach in their series of workshops, they were able to question old concepts and approaches. They initiated new and innovative ways to make learning more meaningful and stress-free. The operative word was â€Å"collaboration†. With brilliant results emanating from the reduction of rules in a setting, it also led to explorations with the physical environment, such as redesigning the layout of the cots at naptime, enlarging the block area from 4 ft by 6 ft to 10 ft by 20 ft, thereby giving ample space to chidren with better results. They also started redecorating their environs with Monet prints, flowers and even the bathrooms to make for a calmer effect on the children. As a result, the rule-driven, clock-driven practice was changed into values-based, responsive pedagogy. Of course, there were some who were resistant to change. Eventually, they had to embrace the new innovation because it lessened

People Resourcing and Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

People Resourcing and Development - Essay Example ve and motivate employee performance and generally contribute to the overall output (performance) of an organization (Pilbeam&Corbridge2010, p.16).In as much as it is intended for the good of employee, manager, and overall organization, performance appraisal has become a controversial aspect of human resource functions. This is because most managers do not have clear guidelines of enacting it, and in most cases, managers have not described their ratings of the process as completely accurate or honest. In the light of this revelation, the following study text will discuss the practice of performance appraisal in an organization as being more of a curse than a blessing in improving and motivating employee performance. Performance appraisals cannot be done collectively like trainings but are conducted per individual. In short, every employee needs to have their own appraisals done by the manager. Today’s organizations on the other hand range from medium sized to large, meaning that there may be tens to hundreds or thousands of employees per organization, all under the same human resources department. This means that the manager doing the performance appraisals has to invest a lot of time into the activity (Aggarwal, Sundar, & Thakur 2013, p.617). In as much as the appraisals are done to boost the organizations, they can mean wasting a lot of precious production time especially on the part of the manager. Apart from writing the appraisals, the managers are required to meet with staff and supervisors to collect information regarding the employees. This fact portrays the curse part of performance appraisals in that managers are critical factors in organizations and if their time for important matters in diverted to lesser-deserving issues, it may result in dismalperformance due to misalignment of management duties. For instance, time for overseeing of organizational functions may reduce, therefore exposing the organization to functional problems. Managers, who are at

Homework on essay Essay Example for Free

Homework on essay Essay 1. What is the new concept of education? For more than decades now, our constant contact with the Americans transformed us and led us to the evolution of our public schools and democratic institutions which then, in turn, developed in us our national consciousness in strength and in solidarity. It gave rise to a new concept of education which is deemed as the training of an individual for the duties and privileges of a citizen not only for his own happiness and efficiency, but also for his contribution to the national sphere at large. As the State’s primary responsibility is to provide for the education of every member of the society, it follows that an educated Filipino must possess three characteristics as enumerated by Francisco Benitez in his essay â€Å"What is an Educated Filipino? † 2. According to the author, what is the first quality should distinguish the educated Filipino? First is the power to do which embraces not only the ability of the Filipinos to produce material goods but also the valuable services rendered to society through institutions such as the home, the school, the church and the government. This is best exemplified by a mother who takes good care of her family. 3. What should be the second quality of an educated Filipino? Second, a Filipino is one who is distinguished not only by one’s knowledge of the world’s progress but also and more importantly by one’s understanding of one’s race, people and country – the ideals and morals that are cherished herein. How can a Filipino claim to call himself educated when he has conquered the world yet he is ignorant of his own culture and origin? 4. What should be the third quality of an educated Filipino? The third is that the educated Filipino is one who is deep-rooted in one’s speech and conduct. One must put into practice those elements recognized as concomitant to culture and morality. Hence, one makes use of such elements for one’s growth as an individual and for a nation’s development as a whole. 5. Which of the three qualities do you consider the most important? The third quality, because the Filipino must have ingrained in his speech and conduct those elements that are everywhere recognized as accompaniments of culture andmorality, so that, possessing the capacity for self-entertainment and study, he may not be at the mercy of the pleasure of the senses or a burden to himself when alone. 6. What are the other qualities would you like to add for the betterment of the Filipinos today?

The Impact Of Sea Level Rise

The Impact Of Sea Level Rise With the rapid growth of knowledge in climate change, especially in sea level rise, its science and impacts, it is hardly surprising that the relationship between sea level rise and its impact on our environment, policies and building practices have attracted considerable attention in recent years. The policymakers, authorities and governing bodies acknowledge that increased sea levels will have significant medium to long-term social, economic and environmental impacts. In an attempt to provide an integrated view of climate change, Synthesis Report (IPCC, 2007) is produced which summarises observed changes in climate and their effects on natural and human systems, regardless of their causes, assesses the causes of the observed changes, presents projections of future climate change and related impacts under different scenarios. Further report discusses adaptation and mitigation options over the next few decades and their interactions with sustainable development, assesses the relation ship between adaptation and mitigation on a more conceptual basis and takes a longer-term perspective. Science of sea level rise From geological perspective, evidence show that the Earths climate has changed through the Earths geological history, spanning more than 3 billion years. From the abundant literature on the sea level rise, it has been observed that ocean levels have always fluctuated with changes in global temperatures, supported by different studies. During ice ages when the earth was 5Â °C colder than today; the sea level often was more than 100 meters below the present level (Dony et al., 1962; Kennet, 1982; Oldale, 1985). The sea level was approximately 20 feet higher than the current sea level in last interglacial period when the average temperature was about 1Â °C warmer than today (Mercer, 1968). Today, no fewer than 13 studies of global-mean sea level (MSL) change over various periods during the last 100 years concluded that MSL has been rising (IPCC, 1990, Ch. 9, Table 9.1 pp. 263). It appears that two primary processes contribute to sea level rise (SLR): thermal expansion of the oceans an d the loss of land-based ice due to increased melting (Bindoff et al., 2007). Global average sea level has risen since 1961 at an average rate of 1.8 [1.3 to 2.3] mm/yr and since 1993 at 3.1 [2.4 to 3.8] mm/yr, with contributions from thermal expansion, melting glaciers and ice caps, and the polar ice sheets (IPCC, 2007). However, whether the faster rate for 1993 to 2003 reflects decadal variation or an increase in the longer-term trend is unclear (IPCC, 2007). According to IPCC (2007) special report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES) A1B scenario, the steric sea level changes relative to the global mean (the local part) in different ocean basins are attributed to differential heating and salinity changes of various ocean layers and associated physical processes. As a result of these changes, water tends to move from the ocean interior to continental shelves (Yin et al., 2010) Impacts of sea level rise on environment Sea level rise (SLR) has direct impact on environment. Increase in temperatures at global level as well as regional level has affected many marine systems (IPPC Report, 1997). A rise in sea level would inundate wetlands and lowlands, accelerate coastal erosion, exacerbate coastal flooding, threaten coastal structures, raise water tables, and increase the salinity of rivers, bays and aquifers (Barth and Titus, 1984). The literature confirms that indirect effects of sea level rise, as well as the potential impact of extreme events, may be more significant than direct effects in the future. Regarding human settlements, Scott (1996) expresses the view that the impacts of sea-level rise and extreme events are likely to be experienced indirectly through effects on other sectors for instance changes in water supply, agricultural productivity (Brinkman, 1995) and human migration. In addition to that, intensity and frequency change will be associated with oceans (Venugopalan, 1996; Nicholls et al, 1996), which will ultimately play a dominant part in the internal dynamics of human demography. Literature also explains the severity of global warming leading to sea level rise. Two global coupled climate models show that even if the concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere had been stabilized in the year 2000, we are already committed to further global warming of about another half degree and an additional 320% sea level rise caused by thermal expansion by the end of the 21st century. Projected weakening of the meridional overturning circulation in the North Atlantic Ocean does not lead to a net cooling in Europe. At any given point in time, even if concentrations are stabilized, there is a commitment to future climate changes that will be greater than those we have already observed (Meehl, et al., 2005). Many terrestrial, freshwater, and marine systems are already being affected by regional increases in temperatures (IPCC, 2007). The most rapid changes have been seen in parts of the Polar Regions where 2-3Â °C increases in temperature have occurred in the last 50 years. Concomitant changes in precipitation, ocean biogeochemistry, sea level, and extreme weather events are generating global concerns about the most effective strategies for conserving biological diversity as climate changes. Further concerns that societies may not be able to stabilize greenhouse gases at a level that will result in only a 2Â °C increase in global temperatures above preindustrial levels (Anderson Bows 2008) are leading to a growing realization that governments should develop contingency plans for 4Â °C increases in temperature. Biological diversity at all levels of organization is affected directly and indirectly by climate change and by adaptation and mitigation measures. Although the SLR pattern is very important, it suffers from an insufficient amount of study to date and was simply attributed to natural geological processes. With the recent progress in this field (Gregory et al. 2001; Levermann et al. 2005; Landerer et al. 2007) a better understanding of the SLR patterns in past, present, and future climates, and their underlying mechanisms, have been identified (Yin, et al., 2010). The acceleration is distinct from decadal variations in global sea level that have been reported in previous studies. Increased rates in the tropical and southern oceans primarily account for the acceleration. The timing of the global acceleration corresponds to similar sea level trend changes associated with upper ocean heat content and ice melt (Merrifield, et al., 2009). Impacts of sea level rise on policies The release of IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR) motivated researchers to expand the ranges of approaches and methods in use, and of the characterisations of future conditions required by those methods to undertake informed decision making in an environment of uncertainty through assessments of climate change impacts, adaptation and vulnerability (CCIAV) (Carter et al., 2007). Their range of application in assessments has since been significantly expanded and aims to understand and manage as much of the full range of uncertainty, extending from emissions through to vulnerability (Ahmad et al., 2001). The most commonly used standard assessment approach such as impact approach aims to evaluate the likely impacts of climate change under a given scenario and to assess the need for adaptation and/or mitigation to reduce any resulting vulnerability to climate risks (Carter et al., 2007). However, other approaches such as adaptation and vulnerability- based approaches, integrated assessme nt and risk management are increasingly being incorporated into mainstream approaches to decision-making, resulting into incorporation of wider objectives such as stakeholder involvement, capacity-building, prioritisation and costing of adaptation measures, interrelationships between vulnerability and adaptation assessments and to integrate national development priorities and adaptation options into existing or future sustainable development plans (SBI, 2001; COP, 2005). While, based upon research, the common response to sea level rise is to understand impacts and relate them to the categories of future characterisations which should be comprehensive, capable to capture the various aspects of the socio-economic/biophysical system it aims to represent and would indicate details with which any single element is characterised. From many characterisations of the future, most commonly used in CCIAV and other studies was found to be Scenarios and Projection. A scenario is a coherent, internally consistent, and plausible description of a possible future state of the world (Nakicenovic et al., 2000; Raskin et al., 2005). Scenarios are not predictions or forecasts, but are alternative images without ascribed likelihoods of how the future might unfold. They may be qualitative, quantitative, or both. An overarching logic often related several components of a scenario (Carter et al., 2007). Currently, two basic approaches are used to support climate adaptation p olicy on a regional and local scale, the predictive top-down approach and the resilience bottom-up approach (Dessai and Sluijs, 2008). Further studying the adaptation-based approaches risk management and integrated assessment approaches are found to be effective. Risk management examines the adaptive capacity and adaptation measures required to improve the resilience or robustness of a system exposed to climate change (Smit and Wandel, 2006). Risk-management approach can also be linked directly to mitigation analysis (Nakicenovic et al., 2007). Over the past 15-20 years, the scientific assessment of climate change impacts has improved considerable with regard to incorporating the human dimensions (e.g., IPCC, 1997; IPCC 2001a; NRC, 1999; Rayner and Malone, 1998; Wynne, 1987). At the same time, as mentioned in Moser (2005), various 23 studies support the fact, attention to the uncertainties, unknowns, and potential surprises in the science of climate change and in impact assessments have grown considerably. Moser, S (2005) emphasis the need of assessments to be taken seriously embedded with local realities and constraints to affect individual decision-makers and communal responses to climate change. Moser (2005) is an excellent study aimed at understanding coastal zone policies and their histories, the challenges and realities of costal policy-making and management, perceptions and understanding of climate change driven sea-level rise and coastal impacts. In other studies, Nicholls and Tol (2006) explored the potential impacts of sea-level rise using complementary impact and economic analysis methods at the global scale. In all future scenarios such as emission scenarios and socio-economic scenarios, they found that the exposure and hence the impact potential due to increased flooding by sea-level rise increases significantly compared to the base year (1990). The most vulnerable future worlds to sea-level rise appear to be which reflects differences in the socio-economic situation, rather than the magnitude of sea-level rise. However, future worlds which experience larger rises in sea-level than considered now, more extreme events, a reactive rather than proactive approach to adaptation, where GDP growth is slower or more unequal than, in the future remains a concern. As climate change threatens to cause the largest refugee crisis in human history (Biermann and Boas, 2010), the situation calls for new governance for the protection and voluntary resettlement of climate refugees-defined as people who have to leave their habitats because of sudden or gradual alterations in their natural environment related to one of three impacts of climate change: sea level rise, extreme weather events, and drought and water scarcity. Despite the threat of rising sea levels, the drive to develop Floridas coastline continues, reported by Mark Schrope, 2010. In his report, he refers to the retreat from submerging lands was relatively uncomplicated with low numbers and a simple lifestyle about 8,000 years ago when there were Native Americans living on land that now lies beneath the Gulf of Mexico (Balsillie et. al., 2004). Further he adds, that vulnerability, combined with its highly concentrated costal population, means that Florida will be a case study for other states and the world for in case of what would happen if you dont prepare for sea level, especially in lack of legislative and public attention to the issues. Impact of sea level rise on building practices Anticipated climate changes will greatly amplify risks to coastal populations. Globally, approximately 400 people live within 20 m of sea level and within 20 km of a coast (Small et al., 2000). By the end of the century, increases in SLR of two to five times the present rates could lead to inundation of low-lying coastal regions, more frequent flooding episodes, and worsening beach erosion (IPCC, 1996a and IPCC, 1996b). Many developed nations have experienced a four-decade rush to the shore, with concomitant beachfront development and exponentially increasing total values for beachfront real estate, infrastructure and buildings and that this unprecedented accelerating coastal development has unfortunately coincided with a century of accelerating global sea level rise means that the prediction of the future rate of shoreline retreat has become a major societal priority (Pilkey and Cooper, 2004). Highly developed coastlines with a large population and considerable private property and infrastructure are potentially at risk from inundation and flooding as well illustrated by three urban case study sites, lower Manhattan, Coney Island, and Rockaway Beach, in Gornitz et al. (2001) study. The greater frequency of severe flooding episodes may lead to abandonment of lower floors, as in Venice, or ultimately of entire buildings Gornitz et al. (2001). Thus zoning and land use policies would need to be established to enable an orderly and equitable pullback from the most vulnerable areas. This could be accomplished by a number of mechanisms such as designation of construction setback lines, removal of buildings or hard structures in imminent danger of collapse and acquisition of empty inland space so that beaches and wetland could be rolled out. To support dense local populations in low-lying sectors of Bangkok, structural measures that have already been undertaken to reduce the rates of coastal erosion which includes building storage dams, constructing barrages, divertin g channels and dykes, as well as planning future measures such as the development of pumping stations (Vitoolpanyakij, 2009). The implementation of improved warning and forecasting methods and the adoption of some land-use planning measures would reduce both current and future vulnerability such as altering the design standard of a physical defence such as realigned channel or a defence wall, altering the effectiveness of building codes based on designing against specified return period events, altering the area exposed to a potential hazard, and/or introducing hazards previously not experienced in an area (Yohe, 2007). Conclusion The issue of global sea level rise has aroused much interest because of its great practical and scientific importance, especially its major impact on most coastal regions. Bird (1993), Warrick et al. (1993) and Nichollas and Leatherman (1994) have well documented serious consequences of even a few mm/yr increase of sea level. Moreover, sea level rise is a unique indicator of global climate change, potentially providing a means for evaluating climate models via their hindcasts and forecasts (Douglas, 1997). Most literature calls for further research and rightly mentioned by Titus (1989) demands better estimates of future sea level rise, improved assessments of the impacts of global warming on coastal environments, improved ocean modelling that will be necessary for better projections of surface air temperatures which would require a substantial increase in the resources allocated for monitoring and modelling local, regional and global climate change. Other climatic variables such as winds, waves and storms should also be taken in consideration and sea-level rise should not be considered in isolation.

Case Study on Alcoholism Essay -- substance abuse case study

Introduction: The ingestion of alcoholic beverages for their enjoyable effects is a custom which has been around for thousands of years, and alcohol continues to be a popular drug because of its short-term effects (Coleman, Butcher & Carson, 1984). An enormous amount of damage can be attributed directly to alcohol abuse as a result of lost jobs, accidents caused by drunk drivers, and so forth (Maltzman, 2000). Alcohol also compounds other problems--an estimated 25% to 40% of hospital patients have problems caused by, or recovery delayed by alcohol abuse (Maltzman, 2000). Clinical psychologists spend about one-fourth of their time dealing with people who are suffering in part from alcohol or other substance problems (Vaillant, 1995). Although alcohol problems have been around for so long, it is only recently that these problems have begun to be associated with medical or psychological difficulties. The first to advocate alcoholism as a disease was Benjamin Rush (1785-1843), and he even proposed that hospitals should be established to aid in the treatment of this disease (Cox, 1987). Since Rush, there have been many more definitions of alcoholism including the Statistical Abstracts (1979) account that an alcoholic is defined as ?one who is unable consistently to choose whether he shall drink or not, and if he drinks, is unable consistently to choose whether he shall stop or not. ?Alcoholics with complications? are those who have developed bodily or mental disorders through prolonged excessive drinking? (O?Brien & Chafetz, 1982, p.26). Further, Mark Keller of Quarterly Journal of Studies on Alcoholism in March of 1960 stated that alcoholism is a ?chronic disease manifested by repeat implicative drinking so as to ca... ..., Publishers. May, R. (1977). The Meaning of Anxiety. New York, NY: Washington Square Press. Menninger, W.W. (1994). Psychotherapy and integrated treatment of social phobia and comorbid conditions. Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic, 58, A84-A90. Miner, C.M., & Davidson, J.R.T. (1995). Biological characterization of social phobia. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 244, 304-308. Potts, N.L., & Book, S., & Davidson, J.R.T. (1996). The neurobiology of social phobia. International Clinical Psychopharmacology, 11, 43-48. Uhde, T.W. (1994). Anxiety and growth disturbances: Is there a connection? A review of biological studies in social phobia. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 55, 17-27. Wittchen, H. (2000). The many faces of social anxiety disorder. International Clinical Psychopharmacology, 15, S7-S12.

CEO of Ventura Electronics Essay

Financial statement analysis is done by every successful corporation, as your team at Ventura Electronics very well knows. â€Å"Comparisons within a company are often useful to detect changes in financial relationships and significant trends† (Kimmel, Weygandt, and Keiso p. 653). Financial statement analysis is done by horizontal analysis, vertical analysis, and ratio analysis. â€Å"Horizontal analysis, also known as trend analysis, is a technique for evaluating a series of financial statement data over a period of time (Kimmel, Weygandt, and Keiso p. 54). If Ventura Electronics is interested in determining any increase or decrease in, for example, net sales (as an amount or percentage) than horizontal analysis are appropriate. Vertical analysis analyzes more specific data on the financial statement. â€Å"Vertical analysis, also called common-size analysis, is a technique for evaluating financial statement data that expresses each item in a financial statement as a percen t of a base amount†(Kimmel, Weygandt, and Keiso p. 656). Ventura Electronics can not only analyze the relative size of each category on the financial statement, but can also see the percentage change in the individual asset, liability, and stockholders’ equity. Ventura Electronic can also use this analysis when comparing its financial statements to the competition. The last tool commonly used for financial statement analysis is ratio analysis. These ratios are useful in evaluating the financial health and performance of a company. In ratio analysis we use three different ratios; liquidity ratios, solvency ratios, and profitability ratios. Liquidity ratios are important because it evaluates the short-term ability of a business to pay their obligations as well as meet their unexpected cash flow needs. When Ventura Electronics wants to measure the ability of the company to survive over a long period of time then solvency ratios are appropriate. Profitability ratios evaluate the income of the business or their operating success over a given period of time. Ventura Electronics would find this ratio very important in analyzing the company’s income and to evaluate the ability for the business to obtain debt and equity financing, its liquidity position, and its ability to grow. As CEO, this ratio would be useful when determining the managements operating effectiveness. It is very important for Ventura Electronics to provide â€Å"full and transparent information that will not confuse or mislead users of the financial statements† (Kimmel, Weygandt, and Keiso p. 61) this is called quality of earnings. When Ventura Electronics performs a financial statement analysis to evaluate the financial performance of the company using the methods above, it is important to maintain a high quality of earnings. Factors that affect quality of earnings are; alternative accounting methods, pro forma income, improper recognition, and price-earnings ratio. Though financial statement analysis is important for Ventura Electronics, it also has its limitations  The limitation of financial statement analysis occurs with ratio analysis. Though this analysis is very useful to the company in analyzing internal factors, Ventura Electronics cannot compare ratios to their competitors accurately. Differences in accounting methods limit ratio analysis in comparing companies. As the CEO you understand the importance of knowing where the company stands as compared to its competitors. Ratio analysis also limits Ventura Electronics to analyze the definite future of the organization. They do not account for industry trends, technological changes, changes in consumer tastes, changes in broad economic factors, and changes within the firm itself. Though ratio analysis has its limitations; horizontal and vertical analysis makes up for these limitations. So as you can see, if the methods for financial statement analysis listed above are used, Ventura Electronics can receive a great knowledge and insight into how successful the company is and could be and make proper decisions based off these evaluations.

Louisa May Alcott: Life and Work Essay

Louisa May Alcott is a female American Novelist born on November 29, 1832 and in Germantown, Pennsylvania (â€Å"Louisa May Alcott†). She had three sisters, a philosopher/teacher for a father, and a loving Mother (â€Å"Louisa May Alcott†). Her family is said to be her primary inspiration for her success in literature and also served as the foundation for her most popular book, â€Å"Little Women†. Based on the biography written by Stern, the stories of Alcott were lifted from â€Å"episodes from her life, her observations, her travels, her experiences, her reading† (xxii). The use of her own personal insights and experiences have made all of the stories as real as it could be during a time when the society is dominated by men and women are expected to become mere supporters. Nonetheless, Alcott has been a witness to her own strength and that of other women, which allowed her to accomplish a significant number of stories and literature that portrayed women as strong personages existing in a male-dominated society. In order to examine how Alcott has presented women as strong characters in a predominantly male society, her stories, such as â€Å"Little Women† and â€Å"Work: A Story of Experience,† are used to show the distinct power and role that women held in relation to the existing power dynamics between men and women. â€Å"Work: A Story of Experience† Women experienced a pivotal role in the industrial era as workers and as channels for the advocacies of the female working class. In the novel â€Å"Work: A Story of Experience,† the main character, Christie Devon, is shown as a women of great character as she tries to find her rightful place in the industrial age. After her several attempts, she ended up as mediator between the female working class and the owners of the businesses where they work in (Alcott 355). Christie has attributed her distinct capacity to serve as an instrument of negotiation to her mother and father, who are both seen of equally great importance (Alcott 355). In this particular work of Alcott, the author maintained a sense of reality in terms of the existing social structure between men and women in the industries and never denied the presence of gaps between the two. However, women are given the chance to voice out their concerns regarding the oppression they felt, which consequently increases their chances of receiving better treatment. The need for women who are strong enough to bring forth the concerns of the female working class is expressed by Alcott, who states that such women were much needed and not always easy to find; for even in democratic America the hand that earns its daily bread must wear some talent, name, or honor as an ornament, before it is very cordially shaken by those who wear white gloves. (355). In the said quote, there are three distinct elements that show the strength and renewed importance provided for females. First, females are given greater chances of participating in different affairs in the society provided that they have the necessary qualifications to do so. With the said qualifications, they are allowed to express their concerns and make contributes to decisions related to matters that directly affect them. The use of qualifications as a form of permit to engage in matters usually dominated by male is also realized by Christie, who mentioned that the attributes she inherited from both her mother and father are enough for her work as a negotiator. Second, the author recognized the existence of women who have the ability to participate but also noted their inherent rarity. The recognition made by author shows that women have gained strength and shared a certain amount of power albeit in rare instances. It is not to say that it is impossible for women to become as strong as Christie but should strive harder in order to gain a distinct position in the society. In fact, the words of the author do not serve as limitations but of recognition of the presence of strong and able women and implies the need to further increase their number. Third, the author also takes note that there are people in the society with who the females need to be at par with. Those with the â€Å"white gloves† can serve as representations of a class that the women should infiltrate through their qualifications. To a certain extent, it can be understood as the domination of males in the different areas of the society. The congregation of males is seen to be one where affiliation is strictly confounded by certain limitations. Nonetheless, the author still maintained the ability of strong females to break the barriers and become affiliated with the male-dominated fields in the society. Aside from the points mentioned above, the novel also represents women who are able to work outside their houses and take on roles that are different from the ones they usually did inside the household. The women portrayed in this particular novel of Alcott are shown to have the ability to work in different careers and are indeed allowed to do so. It is an indication of their ability to break the common stereotype attached to women at that time, which is to remain inside the household and attend to the needs of the family members. Nonetheless, the women are not spared from their household chores and are still expected to fulfill the usual roles attached to being a mother and a wife. Despite the inherent difficulty, the women are still able to cope with the need to balance both the demands of their work and families that renders them capable of succeeding at different tasks at one time. â€Å"Little Women† The novel, â€Å"Little Women† was published in 1868 and revolved around the story of four different women who are considered to be taken from the experiences of Alcott with her three other sisters (Richards 123). The novel’s main characters, being women, are used by the author to send â€Å"a feminist message about the shared challenges all women face in male-dominated society† (Richards 123). The author placed emphasis on the different barriers that often limited the opportunities made available to women. The obstacles enumerated in the novel are the burden of finding a husband who can serve the needs of the female, restrictions with regard to the choices in terms of career, and problems with regard to access to college education. All four women are shown in the novel to have their own distinct characters and their own means of coping with the difficulties they face as women. Jo, whose experiences are often related to that of the Louisa Alcott, is known to be a tough and free-spirited character (Walker and Dresner 115). All of the other characters are known to be struggling with the factors that limit their capacities. One well-known example is that of Jo who took great leaps in order to fulfill her goals and dreams. The three other women have also shown their own strength as they conquer and fulfill the problems and the expectations. All of them are shown as individuals who are able to work their way out of the comforts of the households and successfully overcame the different dilemmas they faced. The portrayal of the lives and struggles of the four women is successful and also appealed to the senses of the audience. As a result, a sequel to the novel was published and showed a different phase in the lives of the four women. In the second volume, the women are also shown to have their own individual struggles and the means they used to overcome the said struggles. In both volumes of â€Å"Little Women,† the females are presented together with their experiences with regard to the struggles they have to face in a male-dominated society. Interestingly, all of the women are able to face their problems with utmost strength, which shows that women have the capability to overcome the challenges because they have the skills to cope with the said difficulties. Likewise, it allows women to find their strength with other women and to provide the needed comfort and help, especially during difficult times. In fact, there is no other substitute for the kind of care provided by women and the courage they exhibit during critical times. At the time when Beth became ill from scarlet fever, it is her sisters who decided to take care of her. All of them remained strong despite the condition of Beth and took the initiative to solve their problems without needing much help from other people. On another note, Alcott have also shown that despite the dominance of males in the society, the females are still able to succeed in their own professions through their own little ways. In this respect, women are able to show that it is not the number that counts but the skills, knowledge, and abilities that they have. Other Stories In the other stories written by Alcott, the focus is also on the females and how they tried to overcome the problems they face in their own respective fields of profession. An example of this is how a woman is used as the main character for the â€Å"Candy Country. † In the said story, the woman is shown as a person who is capable of acquiring knowledge for the sake of enhancing their own welfare where the author states that â€Å"she goes home and grows up from a ‘sickly, fretful child’ to a ‘fine, strong woman’†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Alcott xxxv). Despite the simplicity of the story, Alcott ensured that the main character portrays the strength of women despite the domination of men in the society. Conclusion The stories of Alcott are used to represent the strength of women despite the dominance of male in the society. Stories, such as â€Å"Work: A Story of Expereince† and â€Å"Little Women,† the author is able to show the difficulties faced by women and the distinct coping mechanisms carried out in order to solve their problems. Aside from this, Alcott have also shown that women are able to enter aspects of society that are known to be dominated by male. The access stems from their qualifications and abilities that prove they can also be at par with the rest of the population. Works Cited Alcott, Louisa May. Louisa May Alcott’s fairy tales and fantasy stories. Knoxville: The University of Tennessee Press, 1992. Print. Alcott, Louisa May. Work: A Story of Experience. Charleston, SC: Bibliobazaar, 2008. Print. Louisa May Alcott. Louisa May Alcott Memorial Association. 2004. Web. 18 July 2010. Richards, Paulette. Terry McMillan: A Critical Companion. Westport, CT: Greenwood Publishing, 1999. Print. Stern, Madeleine. Louisa May Alcott: A Biography. Lebanon, NH: University Press of New England, 1996. Print. Walker, Nancy and Zita Dresner (Eds). Redressing the Balance: American Women’s Literary Humor from Colonial Times to the 1980s. Jackson, University Press of Mississippi, 1988. Print.

Edgar Degas Research

Edgar Degas was both a man and an artist of contradictions. The French artist, paint err, and sculptor Edgar Degas was born on July 19, 1834 in Paris, France. Degas died September 27, 1917 in Paris, France. Degas is associated historically with the Impressionists because of his concentration on scenes of contemporary life and he never painted outdoors and rarely depicted landscape and also his desire to capture the transitory moment. Degas surpassed other impressionists in compositional sense; his use of vibrant expressive color became his primary concern in his late works. Degas was one of the first to understand and creatively use the new pictorial possibilities offered by photography and Japanese prints. With that being said, in describing the physical characteristics of one of Degas’s most famous still life paintings, was titled â€Å"Woman with Chrysanthemums†, painted in the year 1865. The medium used was oil on canvas and the scale was 29†x 361/2†. The subject is a female figure depicted sitting at the right side of a table with a bouquet of flowers in the center and also a glass pitcher of water with gloves placed beside the glass pitcher. The painting is objective, and it is because the huge bouquet of flowers opens the viewer’s eye and draws one into the still life painting dominating almost overshadowing the figure. As an artist Degas utilized several major elements of art in his still life famous painting, â€Å"Woman with Chrysanthemums†, therefore, one of the major elements utilized was use Lines. Degas utilized lines in his painting of the table and the open window at the right side of the painting. A second element of art utilized in this painting was the use Color. Degas uses bright spots of color in the bouquet, yellow, red, and specifically white, mostly the general coloring of the painting was subdued, with shades of brown being the predominate coloring. Degas utilized a third element of art being Space. Degas captured the look of Japanese prints and influenced Degas’s painting, as Japanese also is the shallowness of the space, accented by the flowered wallpaper to the left of the picture. A fourth major element utilized in Degas’s â€Å"Woman with Chrysanthemums† described is use Mass. The artist utilized mass with the fullness of the massive bouquet of flowers. Degas utilized the element of texture brilliantly in his rendering of the colorful bouquet of mums. In describing how Degas organized the elements with the principles of design, firstly, unity and variety is utilized with the consistency of color throughout the painting. The mass bouquet of flowers dominates the center, the flowered wall paper behind the table and the flowers that are seen through the open window on the right of the painting. Utilizing another one of the elements of art and principles of design, Degas utilized Balance in this particular painting. Degas placed the woman figure at the far right where she occupies less than a third of the composition, her body cut in half by the picture’s edge. The mass of flowers dominates the center, and the glass pitcher and the lady’s gloves casually tossed on the table, help to balance the composition, which in turn acts as a visual foil to the figure. Emphasis is utilized in the painting as Degas captured the visual appearance, an impression of the inner mood of the woman staring off in to space, her cheek resting on her hand, looking as though she is lost in reflection and unaware of the encroaching bouquet of Chrysanthemums. Directional Forces utilized are using the implied lines for the viewer’s eye to follow the beautiful colors throughout the painting. Also, another way the artist utilized elements with the principles would be through Contrast. The difference between the artist’s use of light and dark throughout his painting. In describing how Degas organized the elements with the principles of design, Repetition and Rhythm with the vivid colors of the flowers flow through and gives the composition unity. Moving along describing the organized elements with the principles of design, scale and proportion, in which the figure of the woman compared to the enormous still life. Degas was influenced by the Impressionist during his time, and also he had formed some friendships. Most importantly Edgar Degas was highly influenced by the Japanese prints and photography. He also carried over the Japanese influence and used the symbolic flower of Japan, once known as The Land of Chrysanthemums in his paintings. Furthermore, Degas created many daring compositional innovations. His study of Japanese prints led him to experiment with unusual visual lines and asymmetrical compositions. His subjects would often seem cropped at the edges, or seemed to appear to be accidental cutoff views and off-centered subjects, as in Woman with Chrysanthemums. Moreover, Degas’s content and meaning of the selection was the woman in the painting staring off into space, her cheek resting on her hand, lost in deep thought unaware of the dominating bouquet of Chrysanthemums. In conclusion, Edgar Degas’s painting of â€Å"Woman with Chrysanthemums† was chosen because of its unusual and unique composition. Also, the unusually unbalanced painting made curiosity prevail. The asymmetrical principle of design and accidental cutoff views were intriguing as to why Edgar Degas painted as he once did long ago. Personally liking Chrysanthemums and beautiful bouquets of flowers made the painting easy to choose for the essay. Edgar Degas truly was both a man and an artist of contradictions.