You Are an Investment Analyst Essay - 1146 Words

You Are an Investment Analyst Amazon versus eBay Angelia Bradley Professor Timothy Carr Financial Accounting December 11, 2012 Amazon versus eBay Jeff Bezos, founded Amazon.com in 1994 when he left his job as Vice-President of the Wall Street firm D.E. Shaw to move to Seattle. After reading a report that projected annual Web growth at 2.300 percent he launched his website in 1995. He began drawing up a plan to sell a list of products on the internet. Bezos narrow his list to five most common products: compact discs, computer hardware, computer software, videos, and books. The $40,000 investment from Nick Hanauer and $100,000 from Tom Alburg help created a more user friendly website that we used today.†¦show more content†¦By doing this, it created profits for everyone involved and Amazon was back in business. On Labor Day, Monday, September 4, 1995, Pierre Omidyar, a 28 years-old software developer, who previously worked for Claris, develops software for Apple computers started eBay from his home. Omidyar first called his website Auction Web because he was told that was his first choice for a website name with t he concept of auctioning. The first item he placed to auction was a broken laser pointer. He received a bid and sold for $14.83. Omidyar was very shocked when the item sold and realized that he had created something extraordinary. The website began to grow and gain great familiarity. Omidyar tried to register the site under the domain echobay.com. It was already in usage, so Omidyar decided to shorten the name to eBay.com which originated from Echo Bay Technology. The website is now ready for business and later became a leader in Internet revenue. Items on eBay are listed by categories and anyone with an eBay account can bid on the items. You can find anything on eBay, including cars, real estate, collectibles, concert tickets, CDs, clothing, DVDs, artwork and etc. When items are listed for auction on eBay it can be seen by millions of people all over the world. According to Swartz (2006) implied that emphasis on eBay was the customer. The nature of online auctions required that strangers trust each others. EBay worked veryShow MoreRelatedYou Are an Investment Analyst Essay3176 Words   |  13 PagesYou Are an Investment Analyst Abstract Through this paper Pepsi and Coca Cola will be fully evaluated. A stock market analysis will be presented to a client as part of a professional consultation process. A background of both Pepsi and Coca will be accompanied in order to have a full synopsis of each company. The stock trends will be examined for both investment options. The stock trends will be based from the intial public offering day to January 2, 2012. Current events surrounding bothRead MoreYou are an Investment Analyst Essay2252 Words   |  10 Pagesfluctuations. Since Pepsi is considered to be less volatile in its stock price it may be considered a better investment compared to Coke. Research and summarize at least two (2) news events (this may include mergers, acquisitions, or political issues) that occurred from 2010 to the present day and the potential impact on the stock price of each company. Indicate how this influences your investment decision related to the company. Coke has always been a company that strives to be innovative andRead MoreInvestment Banking Analyst Career Essays1485 Words   |  6 Pages The job of an investment analyst in a banking firm such as Goldman Sach and JPMorgan is to oversee whether or not an investment made by customers will bear fruits, but in order to do so, one must be skillful either in accounting or finance. A clear understanding in one of those majors is necessary because an investment banking analyst will be dealing with a bunch of financial research in stock and bond market and also in companies. Thus, providing information for the customers to helpRead MoreInside And Outside Of The Firm Essay1533 Words   |  7 Pagessecurity analysts. This player is very important to the operation of the firm because they influence how outside investors view the firm in terms of leadership as well as liquidity and other financial measures. Even though security analysts are known for their intensive research into investment vehicles for their clients they provide many in-depth services that investment advisors and others who watch and monitor the stock exchanges may not be able to receive. For instance, security analysts provideRead MoreEquity Research Questionnaire996 Words   |  4 Pagesthird quarter earnings. Hold Wal-Mart which has already been up 30% this year. Have you ever seen a similar news headline, wondering who on Wall Street issued that recommendation, why and how? Welcome to the dynamic world of equity research. As a junior at the University of Maryland, your finance internship next summer very well may launch your career. Which aspects of finance are you most interested in? Are you seeking a typical 9-5 position or a challenging role in the banking industry? I wasRead MoreInvestment Banking984 Words   |  4 PagesKris Howard Investment Banking The intensely competitive, action-oriented, profit-hungry world of investment banking can seem like a bigger-than-life place where deals are done and fortunes are made. Investment bank includes but is not limited to bringing an established company to the market, by that I mean taking company with the capabilities but not capital of expanding, and raising money through other investors or the stock market (IPO) for a commission, I chose this field becauseRead MoreThe Role of Capital Market Intermediaries in the Dot-Com Crash of 20001069 Words   |  5 Pagesdifferentiate intermediaries into two types in the capital market, one is financial intermediaries such as venture capital firms, banks, mutual funds, and insurance companies, and the other is information intermediaries such as auditors, financial analysts, bond-rating agencies, and the financial press. a) Venture Capitalists (VCs) There are several types of VCs that invest in companies in different stages such as Seed, Early Stage, Late Stage, Expansion, and Private Equity. In the case it wasRead MoreExamples Of Salary And Demand In Finance763 Words   |  4 Pagesoccupations in 2016 was 66,530, higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of 37,040† (U.S. Dept of Labor). As a future University of Houston-Downtown graduate obtaining a bachelor of Business Administration degree with a major in Finance and investment management, I hope to be able to pursue a successful career within the financial field. Seeking a career in the finance industry can lead to many different opportunities for success and growth because of the diverse and broad areas it encompassesRead MoreBeing A Business Person Since I Was Young1079 Words   |  5 Pagesbusiness person since I was young. My family’s business has motivated me to major in business. My dad owns a technology company’s, but Moreover, I esp ecially fascinated in finance. I have passion in finance fields, I am interested in stock market, investment banking, and marketing. Finance is very traditional, however, I am the one who knew the digital and social well, so I want to combine both the traditional and globalization together. I like to interact with people. I am interested in communicatingRead More Careers In Investment Banking Essay1108 Words   |  5 Pages Careers in Investment Banking A career in the securities industry can offer exciting work if you enjoy working in a competitive and demanding atmosphere. Investment bankers, stock brokers, and stock traders all make up the securities industry providing services to each other, as well as the general public. All of people involved in this field deal with stocks, bonds, and other financial material in some way or another, but they all have their own specific objectives and duties. The primary

Essay on Of Mice And Men - 548 Words

Every day, people are faced with responsibility. Some thrive under the pressure while others crumble. Responsibility is a sign of independence. Teenagers with greater amounts of responsibility feel freedom from their parents. In the same case, too much responsibility can put more stress on that freedom-seeking teen and can have devastating effects. John Steinbeck shows the theme that in life, responsibility is best taken in moderation in his novel Of Mice and Men. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;In Of Mice and Men, George shows the weight of responsibility on taking care of Lennie. George knows he could be better off without Lennie. â€Å"When I think of the swell time I could have without you, I go nuts,† George finally expresses. He even tells†¦show more content†¦George even uses Lennie’s need as leverage to keep him under control. Lennie strives to hold responsibility. Unfortunately, Lennie tends to hurt the animals that he does receive. He is too strong for the animals that she cares for. During their journey from Weed, Lennie tends to a mouse, only to end up killing the fragile creature. Later on, George gets Lennie a puppy that Lennie regretfully kills with his power. Lennie’s good intentions fell short in comparison to his power. Lennie was looking for responsibility in pets but took on too much when the animals would be killed by his overwhelming strength. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Using the two main characters of the novel Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck shows that in life, responsibility must be taken in moderation. George takes on the challenge of caring for Lennie. In doing this, George loses a job in weed and is often short-changed when it comes to food and other amenities. Eventually, George realizes where he could be without Lennie and kills Lennie to free himself of the responsibly. Lennie, in a life where he has always been protected by loved ones, looks for responsibility in dependent pets. Each time he is given a chance with an animal, he always cares for it with gentile love. Often times, Lennie’s strength would be too much for the animal and they would fall under his powerful hands. In the end, both men see that they were not capable of conquering the tasks at hand. GeorgeShow MoreRelatedOf Mice and Men1242 Words   |  5 PagesOf Mice and Men Thomas Hobbes in his Leviathan states that, in the state of nature mans life is nasty, brutish and short. In depression era America, no greater truth could be said. There were millions unemployed, largely unskilled and living on the margins of society. The lowest of the low were the migrant labourers travelling from place to place trying to scratch a living. They often had to travel illegally by freight car with all its consequent dangers. Their life expectancy was low, crimeRead MoreOf Mice and Men961 Words   |  4 PagesPeople have a tendency to lose sight of their goals and dreams. Mentally, people struggle to maintain their sanity in this game of life that has no set of rules. In the book Of Mice and Men, this story portrays the inequality between people’s dreams and what can actually be accomplished. John Steinbeck, the author Of Mice and Men, utilizes his general themes of friendship and loneliness, through his deep characterization and connection between characters i n order to illustrate â€Å"The American dream.† TheRead MoreOf Mice and Men1352 Words   |  6 PagesOf Mice and Men Essay - Fate or Choice? Choice is defined by the ‘Shorter Oxford Dictionary’ as; â€Å"The act of choosing; preferential determination between things proposed.† It also states the definition for fate; â€Å"The principle, power, or agency by which events are unalterably predetermined from eternity.† Is our life choice, can we determine our fate by choosing our path or is our destiny determined for us? John Steinbeck puts forward this question in his novella Of Mice and MenRead MoreMice and men1998 Words   |  8 PagesHey this essay is about me not having one and just wanting a free account.GCSE JOHN STEINBECK The first 200 words of this essay... à ¯Ã‚ »Ã‚ ¿Of Mice and Men Essay à ¢Of Mice and Menà ¢ is the fictional short novel written by John Steinbeck in 1937. Steinbeckà ¢s perspective when writing the novel could be based on the fact that he had once worked on a ranch and had a certain fascination about it. The novel is set in 1930s America and this can be seen as the cause of the very enduring culmination that takesRead MoreOf Mice and Men1006 Words   |  5 Pagesheart of every novel.† In your view, what are the distinctive ideas explored in Of Mice and Men? Explain how these ideas are developed throughout the novel. Themes are integral and fundamental aspects which render the literature valuable. They usually provide insight into the author’s perception and internalisations of the world in which they live. Set in California during the Great Depression, Of Mice and Men, by Steinbeck, illustrates the hardships experienced by individuals as they roamed theRead MoreOF MICE AND MEN1721 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿In the book Of Mice and Men, the single women that appeared in the book resented herself as an object. The statement Women today are more often treated by men as equals rather than objects can be true or false. A man that goes to Gentleman s Cubs every night is a different man that studies at Harvard Law School. A striper is going to be a different person than a CEO of a successful business. It’s all about how you present yourself. In Of Mice and Men, Curley s wife presents herself in a seductiveRead MoreOf Mice and Men1035 Words   |  5 PagesFriendship of George and Lenny The book Of Mice and Men focuses on the friendship of two migrant workers in California at a time when most of the work was done by people and not by machines.  Ã‚  George was a small man who acted worldly and wise.  Ã‚  Lennie was a huge man that had the mind of a child.  Ã‚  Together George and Lennie would bounce from job to job with no money in their pockets and only the dream of someday owning a place of their own to keep them going.  Ã‚  The two men were not able to stay in one placeRead MoreOf Mice and Men547 Words   |  2 PagesJohn Steinbeck’s landmark novel Of Mice and Men is perhaps best known for its revolutionary telling of two characters that are very different, but have come to rely on each other to survive during the Great Depression. The two characters are men named George and Lenny. George is somewhat of an average fellow who has no real special skills or attributes. Lenny is large and abnormally strong, but unfortunately has the mind of a child. Le nnie looks up to George as if he were a role model. This statementRead MoreOf Mice and Men1171 Words   |  5 PagesOf Mice and Men by John Steinbeck Q- â€Å"I never seen no piece of jail bait worse than her† what is the reader supposed to think about Curley’s wife? * How is she described by the other characters? * How the author describes her * How she speaks/behaves * Her dreams * Is she the cause of all the trouble Written By Ruqayyah Draey Curley’s wife is not well described and respected by the other characters. She is often looked down upon and discriminatedRead MoreOf Mice and Men883 Words   |  4 Pages‘Of Mice and Men’ is a novel about two men and their struggle to reach their dreams of owning their own ranch. George Milton and Lennie Small are best friends, and in despite of their differences they still manage to work together, travel together and tackle anything that gets in their way. Steinbeck uses nearly all of the characters in this novel to stress the importance of having a friend. The novel ironically starts off in Soledad, which means ‘Solitude’ but when translated into English it means

Production Supervisor Free Essays

KRA (Key Responsibility Area/Key Results Area): â€Å"Key Result Areas† or KRAs refer to general areas of outcomes or outputs for which the department’s role is responsible. A typical role targets three to five KRA. Value of KRAs: Identifying KRAs helps individuals:  · Clarify their roles  · Align their roles to the organisation’s business or strategic plan  · Focus on results rather than activities  · Communicate their role’s purposes to others  · Set goals and objectives  · Prioritize their activities, and therefore improve their time/work management  · Make value-added decisions Description of KRAs: Key result areas (KRAs) capture about 80% of the department’s work role. We will write a custom essay sample on Production Supervisor or any similar topic only for you Order Now The remainder of the role is usually devoted to areas of shared responsibility (e. g. , helping team members, participating in activities for the good of the organisation). CORE KRAs of HR DEPARTMENT: -RECRUITMENT/ SELECTION -WORKFORCE PLANNING/ -DIVERSITY MANAGEMENT -PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT -REWARD MANAGEMENT -WORKPLACE MANAGEMENT -INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS -SAFETY AND HEALTH WORKPLACE -BUILDING CAPABILITIES AND ORGANIZATION LEARNING -EFFECTIVE HR MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS , SUPPORT AND MONITORING KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS: These are the areas within the HR DEPARTMENT, where an individual or group, is logically responsible / accountable for the results. To manage each KRA/ KPAs, a set of KPI are set . KRA and hence KPI is attributed to the department which can have effect on the business results and is self measured where applicable. THE IMPORTANCE AND WEIGHTAGE OF THESE ELEMENTS KRAs/KPAs/KPIs ARE GUIDED BY THE *VISION STATEMENT *MISSION STATEMENT *CORPORATE OBJECTIVES *CORPORATE STRATEGY *CORPORATE BUSINESS UNITS/ DEPARTMENTAL PLANS/STRATEGY. FOR THE BUDGET PERIOD, THIS IS USUALLY 12 MONTHS. What Are Key Performance Indicators (KPI): Key Performance Indicators are quantifiable measurements, agreed to beforehand, that reflect the critical success factors of an organization. They will differ depending on the organization. A business may have as one of its Key Performance Indicators the percentage of its income that comes from return customers. A school may focus its Key Performance Indicators on graduation rates of its students. A Customer Service Department may have as one of its Key Performance Indicators, in line with overall company KPIs, percentage of customer calls answered in the first minute. A Key Performance Indicator for a social service organization might be number of clients assisted during the year. Whatever Key Performance Indicators are selected, they must reflect the organization’s goals, they must be key to its success,and they must be quantifiable (measurable). Key Performance Indicators usually are long-term considerations. The definition of what they are and how they are measured do not change often. The goals for a particular Key Performance Indicator may change as the organization’s goals change, or as it gets closer to achieving a goal. Key Performance Indicators Reflect The Organizational Goals: An organization that has as one of its goals â€Å"to be the most profitable company in our industry† will have Key Performance Indicators that measure profit and related fiscal measures. â€Å"Pre-tax Profit† and â€Å"Shareholder Equity† will be among them. However, â€Å"Percent of Profit Contributed to Community Causes† probably will not be one of its Key Performance Indicators. On the other hand, a school is not concerned with making a profit, so its Key Performance Indicators will be different. KPIs like â€Å"Graduation Rate† and â€Å"Success in Finding Employment after Graduation†, though different, accurately reflect the schools mission and goals. Key Performance Indicators Must Be Quantifiable: If a Key Performance Indicator is going to be of any value, there must be a way to accurately define and measure it. â€Å"Generate More Repeat Customers† is useless as a KPI without some way to distinguish between new and repeat customers. â€Å"Be The Most Popular Company† won’t work as a KPI because there is no way to measure the company’s popularity or compare it to others. It is also important to define the Key Performance Indicators and stay with the same definition from year to year. For a KPI of â€Å"Increase Sales†, you need to address considerations like whether to measure by units sold or by dollar value of sales. Will returns be deducted from sales in the month of the sale or the month of the return? Will sales be recorded for the KPI at list price or at the actual sales price? You also need to set targets for each Key Performance Indicator. A company goal to be the employer of choice might include a KPI of â€Å"Turnover Rate†. After he Key Performance Indicator has been defined as â€Å"the number of voluntary resignations and terminations for performance, divided by the total number of employees at the beginning of the period† and a way to measure it has been set up by collecting the information in an HRIS, the target has to be established. â€Å"Reduce turnover by five percent per year† is a clear target that eve ryone will understand and be able to take specific action to accomplish. Key Performance Indicators Must be Key To Organizational Success: Many things are measurable. That does not make them key to the organization’s success. In selecting Key Performance Indicators, it is critical to limit them to those factors that are essential to the organization reaching its goals. It is also important to keep the number of Key Performance Indicators small just to keep everyone’s attention focused on achieving the same KPIs. That is not to say, for instance, that a company will have only three or four total KPIs in total. Rather there will be three or four Key Performance Indicators for the company and all the units within it will have three, four, or five KPIs that support the overall company goals and can be â€Å"rolled up† into them. If a company Key Performance Indicator is â€Å"Increased Customer Satisfaction†, that KPI will be focused differently in different departments. The Manufacturing Department may have a KPI of â€Å"Number of Units Rejected by Quality Inspection†, while the Sales Department has a KPI of â€Å"Minutes a Customer Is on Hold before a Sales Rep Answers†. Success by the Sales and Manufacturing Departments in meeting their respective departmental Key Performance Indicators will help the company meet its overall KPI. How to cite Production Supervisor, Papers

Audit & Assurance Service Risk Based Audit

Question: Discuss about theAudit Assurance Servicefor Risk Based Audit. Answer: Introduction to Risk Based Audit The Risk based auditing is a modern, independent, and neutral way of collecting and analyzing the evidences with regard to the assertions of a process. The opinion then formed leads to the report forming process in which all the contentions and assertions are put into implementation. The auditors in order to form an effective report, gathers sufficient and appropriate information about the business and its environment. There are two major tests performed, which are undertaken after the collection of sufficient data and information (Mohammadi et al. 2014). There are various forms of risks, which form part of an organization and include risks like inherent, control, detection and overall risk. In order to gain proper knowledge about the risks present, the compliance and substantive tests are undertaken. Compliance Test is the gathering of facts and data to know the compliance status of the organization with the legal requirements, rules and regulations. The procedure helps the auditor in attaining the confidence in the structure of internal control of the company. Substantive Test aims at evaluation of the transactions, data and other important information, on an individual basis (Uludag? 2016). The integral aim of the process is to get an assurance that, the objectives of the company are being met effectively and effectively. The risk-based approach is commonly followed, as it encourages the auditors to attain knowledge of the business as a whole (Johnstone et al. 2013). The auditors on following the models can easily enhance their identification and categorization procedure, which can help them in the better determination of risks, and most suitable approaches accordingly. Difference Between Business Risk and Risk of Material Misstatements Business risks are the risks present in the organization, which can be wide and diversified in nature. The risks present in an organization may contribute and result towards the failure of the business, therefore being the ultimate risk for an organization. Thus, the risks that affect the going concern of a business falls under the business risks. The risks also include the increment in the cost of production, competition in the market, frauds and thefts and other such risks (Wright 2016). Audit risks or the risk of the material misstatements represents the risks, which are expressed by the auditor. An inappropriate opinion on financial statements after the audit procedure comprises the audit risks. The risk of material misstatement comprises of two major components, inherent and control risk and third being detection risk (Knechel and Salterio 2016). The auditors majorly focus on the factors of inherent and control risks. The risk of detection is not an integral part of the material misstatement risk. The misstatements can lead to economical losses and they comprise the information, which is not easily visible or traceable. Thus, with the increase in the risk of the statements of finance can lead to an increment in the overall risk. The identification and assessment of the risks of the misstatements, which are material in nature and helps in the understanding of the organization and its environment is necessary to be carried out by the auditor. Such process helps to earn the knowledge about the likelihood and the present risks, which are being faced by the organization. Such business risks have the likelihood of identification of the material misstatements but it is not necessary that the material misstatements are the same as the business risk. Therefore, an auditor must undertake essential precautions to measure the nature and consequences of the various risks (Brown-Liburd et al. 2014). While, the risk of business relates merely to the entity and the stakeholders; the risk of audit i.e. material misstatements relates to the auditor only. Even though, the business risks and audit risks are not fully similar to each other, they still connect. The recognition and classification of the business risks guide towards the detection of the audit risks (Ruhnke and Schmidt 2014). Discussion on Business Risks Ferrywise Ltd is a company, which is operating the car and ferry route for the passengers after purchasing the rights of operating the same until the year 2022. It operates across a large lake in Ireland and due to recession, they are unable to build another bridge, which would allow an extra 125 kilometers drive. In addition, Ferrywise Ltd had purchased boats for the routes but as per the Environmental rules and regulations, they are unable to meet the emission standards required as per the rules and regulations. Thus, the company is not meeting the compliance requirements as per the audit standards and regulations, which comes easily under the focus of an auditor. The non-compliances are a part of a great business risk as they majorly form part of the future concern of the company (Sadgrove 2016). The Company is also unable to fulfill the requirement of carrying the passengers in the required number of vehicles per year, which means it has the risk of going concern as the passengers are not looking forward to such travelling and the vehicles are unavailable at the required time. Furthermore, it is unable to get the advantage of the subsidies, which are provided once the company increases the number of vehicles for the travelling across the route. The Safety at sea certificate is also required to be verified by the independent auditor, which if negative would create an unstable position for the company. It is mainly about the safety measures and precautions taken against the accidents, which might take place within the sea or anytime during the travel. On the assessment procedure carried on by a group of independent auditors, it was found that there are a huge number of deficiencies and paucity in the measures and operations undertaken by the Company. Lastly, the main problem constitutes the claim about the contaminated food provided by the company. The passengers had been complaining that they had been suffering from health issues like food poisoning after having the refreshments provided by the company. Even though, the company is denying the fact and responsibilities related to such refreshments, the goodwill of the company has gone down drastically and the same problem has been covered under the coverage of media. There has been a bad public image formed after such news spread by the media. Therefore, from the above we can easily make the numerous risks, which the business is facing, and the ones, which would affect and harm the company, which can even damage the going concern of the company (Epstein and Buhovac 2014). The auditor will undertake tests in which the company will surely fail, as they do not meet the compliance procedures and there are no internal controls present, which can save the company from being ruined in the near future. The Company will also not pass the substantive test, as the individual process of the companies is also not up to the mark, as per the discussions above. There are various failures of processes undertaken by the company and thus the auditor may give inappropriate opinion about such practices. The opinions matter and will decide the smooth continuation of the company. An auditor tries to attain a proper knowledge and detect the overall risks present inside the organization to provide the required opinion. Conclusion and Recommendation on Internal Control The existing system must be reviewed carefully by the management and ensure that there must be implementation of proper controls and procedures. As per the problems, which are seen above, there are various discrepancies in the existing system of the organization. Each aspect of the company is checked i.e. the checks and financial transactions undertaken by the company. There are many safety and other compliance and legal issues, which must be put under stringent controls to remove the inappropriate opinion of the auditors. The controls can simply include the implementation of checklists about the precautionary measures undertaken by the company. The various compliance procedures like the meeting of the emission standards as per the Environmental protection regulations must be highlighted to the management (Pahuja 2013). The compliance test would require the company to follow, as it will seriously affect the companys reputation and goodwill. There are decreased numbers of vehicles, which must be increased to gain proper amount of advantage of the subsidies, which are provided from the authority of the local transportation. There must be a maintenance report of the number of vehicles available and the requirement, if fulfilled or not. The requirement of the vehicles per year is not met and in order to fulfill the same, the manager, to provide appropriate answer to the auditor, must do enquiries. The company is losing the subsidy, as it does not meet the requirements, so it should take steps to increase the subsidies. The company has various issues, which also include the safety measures of company, which includes the safety of the passengers and ship from accidents, breakdown and collisions. They require the review of the safety documents, which the independent auditors found illegal. The Safety at Sea Certificate which becomes valid for five years down the row, was not approved by a set of independent directors, as there were numerous discrepancies found in the procedures and measurement undertaken by the company. Thus, the auditor must take steps to make the management take steps on controlling the same by making proper documents and questionnaire to be filled for perfection. The management also needs to take measures to correct such inconsistencies and continue the proper supervision on the activities carried on by the company (Benn et al. 2014). The last and major deficiency of the company is the improper and unsatisfied food supply to the passengers. The customers are not happy as they think the refreshments supplied are contaminated and therefore they are facing the problems of food poisoning and other such health issues. Though the company is denying the fact that their food is contaminated, the media has distorted their image as bad and unethical. The auditor must detect the reasons of such risk along with the management and other experts. After the detection procedure, the auditor must take into consideration the measures which will help the company get rid of the bad publicity in which the company is involved. The detection procedure helps in the reduction of the operational risks by creating firewalls in technologies and other personal business (Layton 2016). The auditor must help the management to make an effective risk plan and have sufficient insurance for the protection against the losses and other symptoms of destruction. He must also act as a professional and as he is an outsider, he must view all the situations in a more objective and effective manner (Peltier 2016). The auditor must issue written communication to the management with relation to the overall environment of the entity. It would be appropriate if the communication is first done in an oral manner to the management and those charged with the governance. Thus, the auditor must be in a continuous communication with the management and those charged with the governance (Bain and Band 2016). References Bain, N. and Band, D., 2016.Winning ways through corporate governance. Springer. Benn, S., Dunphy, D. and Griffiths, A., 2014.Organizational change for corporate sustainability. Routledge. Brown-Liburd, H., Mason, S. and Shelton, S., 2014.The effect of reliance on third-party specialists under varying levels of internal control effectiveness on the audit of fair value measurements. Working paper, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Epstein, M.J. and Buhovac, A.R., 2014.Making sustainability work: Best practices in managing and measuring corporate social, environmental, and economic impacts. Berrett-Koehler Publishers. Johnstone, K., Gramling, A. and Rittenberg, L.E., 2013.Auditing: a risk-based approach to conducting a quality audit. Cengage Learning. Knechel, W.R. and Salterio, S.E., 2016.Auditing: assurance and risk. Routledge. Layton, T.P., 2016.Information Security: Design, implementation, measurement, and compliance. CRC Press. Mohammadi, J., Kalali, A. and Najafzadeh, A., 2014. Risk-Based Auditing.Asian Journal of Research in Business Economics and Management,4(11), pp.366-372. Pahuja, S., 2013. Environmental Audit. InEncyclopedia of Corporate Social Responsibility(pp. 969-979). Springer Berlin Heidelberg. Peltier, T.R., 2016.Information Security Policies, Procedures, and Standards: guidelines for effective information security management. CRC Press. Ruhnke, K. and Schmidt, M., 2014. Misstatements in financial statements: The relationship between inherent and control risk factors and audit adjustments.Auditing: A Journal of Practice Theory,33(4), pp.247-269. Sadgrove, K., 2016.The complete guide to business risk management. Routledge. Uludag?, S., 2016. The importance of control environment in an organization for an independent auditor to determine nature, timing, and extent of substantive tests: An application in Turkey.JABS,2(6), pp.294-303. Wright, W.F., 2016. Client business models, process business risks and the risk of material misstatement of revenue.Accounting, Organizations and Society,48, pp.43-55.

The poetic techniques utilised to create the snowy scene Essay Example For Students

The poetic techniques utilised to create the snowy scene Essay Hardy uses some very effective language in the next couple of lines to describe the snows movement. The phrases, flakes have lost their way and grope back upward and meandering down they turn and descend again are extremely effective and give a good impression of how the snow weaves and how the flakes actually move. The next verse describes the effect of the snow on a sparrow, where it so nearly buries the sparrow. Hardy describes the scene thus: a snow-lump thrice his own size, descends on him and overturns him and near inurns him. We will write a custom essay on The poetic techniques utilised to create the snowy scene specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now This portrays the sparrow as being overpowered by the snow and the language used is once again effective. The poem ends with a description of a cat, where we can come to the conclusion of the cat being thin and cold as well as struggling with the snow. The last line involves a human being for the first time throughout the poem; black cat comes, wide-eyed and thin; and we take him in. The fact that there is no human involvement until the last line of the poem emphasises that the poem is about snow and how it affects living things. Hardy describes in detail the snows effect and conveys his message with the use of strong vocabulary and effective language. Edward Thomas poem Snow describes the experience of a child with snow and her innocence. Thomas begins the poem by describing the snows silencing effect and the phrase; gloom of whiteness in the first line sets the scene for the poem very well. This is owing to it being an oxymoron; the gloom being the dark side whilst the whiteness is the snow. Thomas uses direct speech in his poem to describe the childs emotions; bitterly sighing. The use of these strong adverbs describes the snows effect very well as it portrays the childs bitterness at the bird dying. The birds feathers are what the child thinks is causing the snow to fall as when the bird died the scene created is very gloomy. The poem ends with the effective phrase, and still it fell though that dusky brightness, on the child crying for the bird of the snow. This explains that the snow continues to fall even though the child is crying. Thomas describes the effect of the snow on the child very cleverly by mixing the childs emotions with the snow the child believes its snowing because of the birds death. All three poets use a contrasting variety of poetic techniques in their poems. Bridges uses a variety of alliteration to good effect; lessened the load, silently sifting, road roof and railing. All of these examples evoke ideas that Bridges is trying to portray such as the silencing effect. This can be seen in the phrase stillness of solemn air. Bridges also uses a metaphor to describe the precious nature of the snow; they gathered up the crystal manna describing how the children are collecting the snow. Personification is used by Bridges in the phrase his sparkling beams. This suggests the sun as being extremely important. Furthermore, Bridges uses onomatopoeia to evoke action into the poem; muffling and plunging are examples of this. The rhyme scheme of London Snow is an ABAB where every other word rhymes. This is evident with the fact that the pace of the poem quickens. Hardy uses a number of poetic techniques as well. A simile is used in the phrase every fork like a white web-foot which implies that the twigs appear as a ducks foot. Hardy uses assonance to effect with the phrase, snow-lump thrice his own slight size and also alliteration; waft of wind with the fleecy fall, which both describe the snows movement. .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 , .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .postImageUrl , .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 , .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:hover , .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:visited , .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:active { border:0!important; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:active , .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492 .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u9734c9983ca37ed1546f1964cf0cd492:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Great is their powers EssayThe rhyme scheme of the poem is AABB which are rhyming couplets and the pace of the poem does not quicken whereas Bridges does. Thomas poem Snow is a completely different concept to the other two poems as a result of the whole poem being a metaphor. This is owing to the snow being portrayed as the birds feathers. There is sign of alliteration though, where Silence of snow is used to describe the snow as a silencer. There is no consistent rhyme scheme to the poem whereas there is in the other two poems. All three of the poems have a contrasting structure. Bridges structure is a thirty seven line poem with three line stanzas and a total of four sentences are used throughout the poem. Apart from the beginning and the end of the poem, every third line is indented. Hardy, however, has used four verses and where the first contains eight lines and the other three contain four lines. There are four sentences just as in Bridges poem. Thomas poem is an eight line verse and contains two sentences throughout the poem rather than the four that Bridges and Hardy used. In conclusion, I feel Robert Bridges has effectively created the snowy scene in his poem London Snow. I believe the detail of the description he has used has worked effectively as it portrays a magical Impression of the snow. Bridges uses a variety of adjectives and verbs to describe the snow and how it can transform a scene; Stifling, Incessantly, and Silently sifting are a few examples of adjectives used to describe the scene. Bridges creates many ideas and messaged to do with the snow such as how at first it can be magical and pure but it can then be ruined by people walking on it. I feel this portrays the snowy scene well and depicts exactly what happens owing to the snow being uncontrollable. The fact that Bridges has used many poetic techniques makes his poem effective. He uses a number of alliterative phrases including Silently Sifting which describes the snows silencing effect. Furthermore, he uses metaphors, onomatopoeia and personification. Therefore after assessing all three poems, I have reached the conclusion that Robert Bridges poem London Snow is the most effective in creating the snowy scene.

External Environment Analysis Argos Retailer Company

External Environment Analysis Argos Retailer Company Introduction Founded in 1973, the Argos is one of the largest catalogue merchants in the UK. The company has more than 700 stores and has famous brands such as the Elizabeth Duke, Chad Valley, Bush, and Alba. These brands have featured in products such as the Pro Action, Opticom, Aquarius, Visiq, and Mega Games among others.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on External Environment Analysis: Argos Retailer Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company has an active price comparison website and it own television network called the Argos TV (Argos, 2014). Thus, this analytical treatise will provide an explicit analysis of the Argos Retailer’s external business environment. PESTLE Analysis Political In the UK, the government’s regulations, taxation strategies, directives, norms of leadership, and employment regulations are highly flexible for business. The UK is one of the most promising busines s places with remarkable expansion in corporate world. The company has taken advantage of the favourable UK economic condition to expand its market niche. The stable economy of the UK has been a pull factor for the company’s products since the purchasing power of many of its potential customers is high, especially for its food stores (Miller, Vandome, and McBrewster, 2011). Legal The legal system in the UK is very stable and functions on the pillars of serving the interest of everybody equally. However, when carrying out its business, the Argos Company has to keep in mind that it needs to comply with all the business laws of the UK and federal laws as well. Being a tax compliant store, the Argos Company has fulfilled its legal mandate as a business and has the freedom to do trade within the territories of the UK and Ireland (Kluger, 2011). Economic environment Despite the global economic meltdown in 2009, the economy of the UK has recovered from these effects and is currently one of the leading economic powerhouses in Europe. The recent economic boom in the UK has resulted into growth of many businesses due to increased demand for products and services.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Being one of the most strategically located businesses, the Argos Company positioned to benefit from the economies of scale and improved revenues since it has several brands within the UK and Ireland (Miller, Vandome, and McBrewster, 2011). Social environment Many social issues affect any business sector or industry. However, the Argos Company has aligned its services with the target market needs by actively participating in series of corporate social responsibility initiatives. Besides, the products and media services provided by the firm are aligned with the socio-cultural needs of customers in the UK and Ireland. Currently, the firm is investi ng in areas where socio-cultural factors promote its business such as the Argos TV (Kluger, 2011). Technological environment The Argos Company has successfully incorporated online activities within its operations. As one of the leading retailers in the UK, the company has launched the Argos credit card, online shopping portal, and live consumer support centre. Since most of its operations rely on the availability and usability of information technology, the business has applied available technology to develop and maintain the market leader status. All aspects of the firm such as sales, purchases, marketing, management, and operations have been aligned to appropriate and sustainable technology (Baltzan, 2014). Porter’s market forces Threat to market entry It is difficult for any aspiring retailer company to enter into the industry in the UK and Ireland markets and manage to break even easily.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on External Environme nt Analysis: Argos Retailer Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In the UK and Ireland, the Argos’ business magnitude together with that of its main competitors are well established and would easily enjoy economies of scale to the disadvantage of a new entrant (Wright, 2007). The company is well position to survive in the competitive retail market through gaining form economies of scale and strong customer base. Threat of substitutes Asda and Tesco pose the greatest threat to Argos’ existence and business performance. Tesco has been in the industry for longer period and is well established than the Argos Company. Asda and Tesco have the same products and sometimes offer bigger discounts to customers than Argos. Therefore, Asda and Tesco have the ability to offer an alternative perfect substitute to customers who may be unsatisfied with the prices offered by the Argos Company (Argos, 2014). Power of suppliers Suppliers in th e retail industry have more power owing to the existence of many retailer companies in the UK and Ireland. As a matter of fact, suppliers may instigate market demand and supply variances due to difference in price tags for different retailer products (Wright, 2007). However, the Argos Company has endeavoured to use its deep reservoirs as a strategy for balancing the supply forces in the fragile retail market. Power of buyers Reflectively, the amount of output in terms of turn over sales depends on the buyers’ purchasing power. The higher the purchasing power, the better the turnover in total sales realized over a definite period of time. The Argos’ performance in the UK and Ireland retail industries depends highly on the power of the shoppers.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In fact, the purchasing power determines profitability and probability of survival of a business in short and long term (Kluger, 2011). Fortunately, The Argos has developed a unique market niche from through series of product brands such as the Pro Action, Opticom, Aquarius, Visiq, and Mega Games (Argos, 2014). Rivalry There are several retail companies operating in the same industry with virtually all of them dealing in a variety of retail products and services. For instance, Tesco provides the biggest competition to Argos due to its big market share, affordable prices for its products and expanded network (Kennedy and Ehrenberg, 2007). With many customers looking for good value for their money, quality in service delivery has remained the main basis upon which customers are making their final decision to purchase (Witcher and Chau, 2010). In line with this, the Argos Company has heavily in invested in technological development in its online product platform. Porter’s diamon d analysis Factor conditions The company has strong financial arm besides well trained and highly motivated employees. Besides, the company has diverse portfolio (Miller, Vandome, and McBrewster, 2011). Demand conditions Since most of the Argos products are used on a daily basis by most household, the demand for these products and services have remained high in the UK and Ireland. This has worked to the advantage of the media brand (Baltzan, 2014). Related industries The company has partnered with companies such as the Vanquis Bank to sustain its credit card. Besides, some of the brand has been franchised as an expansion strategy (Kluger, 2011). Strategy, structure, and rivalry The innovative brands such as the Pro Action, Opticom, Aquarius, Visiq, and Mega Games have created an innovative, proactive, and sustainable business environment for the Argos Company (Witcher and Chau, 2010). Yip’s drivers Market drivers The company’s distribution pattern is dynamic and market oriented. The Argos Company is currently the largest retail business in the UK (Argos, 2014). Cost globalisation driver The company has an opportunity for internalisation since its credit card may be used in other parts of Europe. Thus, the company may consider this as an opportunity to expand its stores to other countries (Argos, 2014). Competitive drivers The company has the ability to survive competition from companies such as Tesco by offering discounts since it can still gain from the economies of scale (Witcher and Chau, 2010). Government drivers The UK and Ireland have favourable business policies, political environment, and good infrastructure. This offers favourable business expansion opportunities for the Argos Company (Kluger, 2011; Cheverton, 2004). Value net analysis The company is sensitive to changes in customer preference is demand for its products is sensitive to lifestyle changes. Most of the models of supply chain management at the Argos propose a linear format t o make judgment that marketing within an organization can be described in reference to future expectations. The current assets of the company and structured financial management system will ensure business sustainability (Johnson, Whittington, and Scholes, 2011). CAGE analysis The fair economic environment that has been created within the boundaries of the UK and Ireland has been that which encourages trade. This sustainable trade environment has offered an unlimited access to the market for the Argos stores. The company has earned a segment of the UK and Ireland population that has developed loyalty towards the store because of its promotional activities and friendliness to customers (Baltzan, 2014; Bodily and Allen, 2009). Conclusion The external analysis reveals that the Argos Company has a sustainable business strategy. However, the company needs to respond to the social needs in each brand store. Being a retail company, it needs to make use of the current technology so as remai n on top of the competition. Reference List Argos 2014, About Argos. Web. Baltzan, P 2014, Management information systems: Business driven MIS in Business Driven Information Systems. Web. Bodily, E., Allen, M 2009, â€Å"A dialogue process for choosing value-creating strategies†, Interfaces, vol. 29 no. 6, pp. 16-28. Cheverton, P 2004, Key Marketing skills: Strategies, tools, and techniques for marketing success, Kogan Page, London. Johnson, G., Whittington, R., Scholes, K 2011, Exploring strategy, 9th edn, Prentice Hall, Alabama, Al. Kennedy, R., Ehrenberg, A 2007, â€Å"Competing retailers generally have the same sorts of shoppers†, Journal of Marketing Communications, vol. 7 no. 2, pp. 19-26. Kluger, J 2011, â€Å"Beauty and the Bytes†, Special Commemorative Issue, vol. 16 no. 2, pp. 30-35. Miller, F., Vandome, A., McBrewster, J 2011, Pestle analysis, VDM Publishing, London, UK. Witcher, B., Chau, V 2010, Strategic Management: Principles and Practice, Ce ngage Learning, Alabama, Al. Wright, P 2007, â€Å"A refinement of Porter’s strategies,† Strategic Management Journal, vol. 8 no. 1, pp. 93-101.

Employment Law Problem Question Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Employment Law Problem Question - Coursework Example ining employment in the food related industry, for a period of 6 months from the termination of employment and within 10 miles of the location of PPP. In accordance with the above discussion, it is obligatory for PPP to establish the reasonableness of this covenant. Moreover, the geographical restriction depends on the nature of the business and the competition. In some cases, the courts consider a restriction of 7 miles from the ex-employer’s premises as reasonable, whereas a one mile radius clause would be unreasonable in central London. In Allan Janes LLP v Johal,5 a solicitor’s post-termination covenant of 6 miles location, was deemed to be void, by the court, as it was very extensive. Nevertheless, a restrictive covenant for a 12 month period, with respect to an anti – client poaching was deemed to be valid.6 Similarly, a restriction of 10 miles from the location of PPP may be void – since it appears unreasonable. It is argued that the clause restrict s the employment opportunities of Arinder, to a major extant. In Hivac Ltd v Park Royal Scientific Instruments Ltd, the court dealt with the use of an item of information by an employee, subsequent to the termination of employment. The court ruled that a covenant in the service contract could not restrict disclosure of such information.7 An employer that believes an employee has breached a restriction relating to the period after termination of employment, may apply for an injunction from the court. Such application will seek an interlocutory injunction and delivery up or destruction of confidential information.8 In this problem, Arinder was instructed by DD to make a product that was similar to that he had prepared for PPP, when he was in their employment. Such act may cause damage to the legitimate business...This duty imposes three conditions upon the employer. First, if a practice at the workplace places a disabled person at a distinct disadvantage in comparison to individuals w ho are not disabled, then the employer has to take reasonable steps to avoid that disadvantage. Second, if a physical feature places a disabled person at a considerable disadvantage, with regard to a pertinent issue, in comparison to those who are not disabled, then the employer has to adopt whatever is reasonable to circumvent such disadvantage. Third, if a disabled person would be seriously disadvantaged in a relevant matter, in comparison to persons who are not disabled, in the absence of auxiliary aid.

Psychological theories Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Psychological theories - Essay Example The probability of an individual being born with certain personality features is very thin in the context of self theories. This implies that the diverse individual experiences that people in a society opens up a probability of having several personality types. Every individual has a specific and unique chance of building a different personality, based on their own experiences and interpretation of the experiences. This paper will analyze the applicability of the Person centered theory to African American women given that they are faced with several problems including racial and gender segregation. A classical self theory is as outlined in Carl Rogers’ theory; person centered theory, variously referred to as person centered theory. In his theory, Carl defines a person as the product of experiences and perceptions. If life is full of experiences, then it can comfortably be predicted to be learning and a growing encounter (integration of experiences into one’s life using perceptions). It is therefore easy to predict that the nature of experiences in different people’s lives could result in markedly similar or characteristic growth. In his theory, Carl makes assumptions to the effect that human beings can be trustworthy and have potential to resolve their problems when they understand themselves without interventions, which makes therapeutic intervention a highly influential part of molding clients. In order for the intervention therapy to take course and effect, there must be a positive attitude from the client’s part, as well as a good relationship between the therapist and the client. Proficiency in theory and counseling techniques was not important according to Carl, as it is for the therapist to understand the potential possessed by clients in their recovery. Apparently, it is the most powerful tool that a therapist can use, as opposed to the views of Bohart and Tallman (1999), (as cited in Corey, 2009,

Persuasive presentation against capital punishment Essay

Persuasive presentation against capital punishment - Essay Example However, while serving the cause of justice in such cases, it would be utterly inappropriate for a society to momentarily do away with the set social, moral, ethical and religious values accrued over centuries and generations, to turn into some sort of a collective predator, savagely taking the life of a culprit in the name of justice. Society has to punish crime, but it ought to do so without tempering with the quintessentially human values and aspirations (Bedau, 1977). Capital punishment do punishes a criminal, but at the same time it also deprives a society with a measure of its humanity and restraint. Capital punishment is based on the principle of â€Å"an eye for an eye†, which is totally savage, anachronistic and inhuman in its approach and scope. Society should punish the hardcore and incorrigible criminals, but for doing so it does not need to stoop to the level of the murderers in intends to punish. There is no denying the fact that capital punishment is usually awarded to deviant people guilty of committing the rarest of the rare crimes. In that context, the capital punishment is not pragmatic in the sense that it extends to a criminal an easy way out (Zimring, 2003, p. 145). The pain inflicted by capital punishment on a criminal is only momentary. In contrast, the saner substitutes like life imprisonment are more stringent and rigorous in their practical implications (Zimring, 2003, p. 145). The torture of being deprived of one’s liberty, comfort, rights and social support system for years is certainly a worse torture for a hardcore criminal than the clean break allowed for by a death sentence. Thus, life imprisonment, realistically speaking is more potent and valid a deterrent to crime and a suitable expression of social repudiation for a serious crime, as compared to a capital sentence. Besides, life imprisonment and

Negative Effects of Childhood Obesity

Negative Effects of Childhood Obesity Stella Badalyants Abstract The purpose of this research paper is to inform about negative effects of childhood obesity. Children’s choices in foods are largely influenced by media and commercial advertising. Obesity has become a growing health concern at a very young age. Cultural differences including national history showed to have an effect on weight in children. Overweight children not only suffer from serious physical health issues but also with psychological problems brought on by teasing in school. Other factors like race, family background and age showed to make a difference in body weight. Parental supervision is important to prevent this growing desease, including television monitoring and consumption of foods high in sugar and fats. Childhood obesity has been one of the most serious medical health conditions for both children and adolescents. It occurs when a BMI or body mass index is 20 percent greater than normal which is when a child is above the normal weight to height ratio. In the past several decades a spike in overweight and obese children occurred in Western nations. Countries like Canada, Germany, Israel, Greece, Ireland and New Zealand have all become victims to this disease. With U.S. leading the way at 32 percent of overweight children and 17 percent of whom are obese (Berk, 2012, p.417). In 1995, health-care costs associated with excess weight were $51.6 billion or 5.7 % of the total U.S. health care expenses. Also, excess weight decreases productivity and leads to loss of work time (Peralta-Alva, et al., 2005).Childhood obesity has even spread to China, where 20 percent of children are overweight and 7 percent are obese, a percentage that was almost none existent one generation prior to this gener ation. In high populated cities obesity in children rose to 10 percent. Additionally, a Chinese culture belief that extra body weight shows prosperity and health has contributed to an alarming number of growth in obesity. It was carried over from centuries ago when famine caused numerous amounts of deaths. Childhood obesity also paves the way for future health problems as adults such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, not to mention emotional and social difficulties. Obesity can also lead to poor self-esteem and depression; as well as a leading factor to severe complications including stroke, kidney failure, and circulatory problems that heighten the risk of blindness and amputations. Many psychologists also believe that weight bias can be contributing to obesity. Children who are overweight or obese tend to be vulnerable to negative comments and more prone to being victims of bulling. Classmates are common critics of obese children, and school is usually the setting where weight-based teasing and victimization happens. Psychologists also have done studies which showed that negative opinions about overweight children begin as early as age 3 to 5 in the preschool age. Preschoolers consider their overweight peers are mean and less wanted playmates compared to non-overweight children. When poled for their opinion, many children viewed over weight kids as stupid, ugly, lazy and have little to no friends. The children are then poled again at elementary school age and their opinions only get worse with reports that obese peers are selfish, dishonest, socially isolated, and are prone to teasing. The issue has become so common that research now informs us that based on a child’s weight we can predict if they will be victims of bulling due to their weight. (Griffiths, Wolke, Page, Horwood, 2006). Preconception of overweight children can damage the psychological state and increase exposure to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and poor body image. Consequently, obese youth that are being victimized by their classmates are more likely to have suicidal thoughts than those overweight students who are not bullied. Also, having to deal with humiliation about weight only increases the possibility of participating in unhealthy eating habits as well as lower levels of physical activity. Recent research has found that gilt of being overweight is associated with greater calorie intake, lower energy outflow, and over all less weight loss in adults seeking weight loss treatment (Carels et al., 2009). Obesity has been influenced by many factors, especially those in demographic and social-economic nature. Agricultural efficiency improvements have taken place due to decrease in trade barriers which has led to lower service prices. Fast-food chains are all offering fries, burgers and soft drinks at low costs. U.S. has spent $7.3 billion in advertisement for food in 1999, $765 million of that was spent on advertising gum and candy. Advertisement for soft drinks were at $549 million and snacks were at a somewhat low of $330 million (Story et al., 2004). High fructose corn syrup has been linked to childhood obesity in many studies. The fact that soft drinks are pumped full of high fructose corn syrup only adds to the problem. Innovations in technology have been a blessing and a curse, on one hand efficiency and productivity has increased in jobs that require labor, however those same labor saving gadgets decrease the amount of effort put into the job, therefore decreasing the amount of calorie burn per activity. Technology such as television, computers and dishwashers have all been created to save time and provide entertainment, but overuse of these tools has led to a much more serious issue. Biking and walking among Americans has decreased drastically, on the other hand, driving has increased as a source for transportation. Even short trips to the store or park have been largely dominated by vehicle transportation. Children have started losing a large amount of exercise time due to increased time spent playing video games and watching television. Cooking and preparing food has become substantially easier, this has led to more meal consumption among Americans, which is another major reason for increased weight in both children and adults. The average American home had 0% microwave ovens in the 1960’s, today over 80% of households owns one (US DOE, 2006). Patterns of food consumption have changed all together, people are now consuming more carbohydrates and fats than ever before. Ownership of television sets have also increased from as low as 10% in the 1950’s to nearly 100% today (Nielson Media Research, 1995). Which of course led to increase in time spent watching T.V. Many studies in the past have calculated endless data on changes of eating habits, level of activity and income changes in U.S. However a study by Tangel Chang, James M. Barrett and Stephen A. Vosti tests the importance of each factor in the rise of body weight. Although the study is not limited to only children, the results are certainly eye opening to future consequences. Factors such as gender, ethnic background and family income are all associated with weight. Studies show that some groups are at a greater risk of becoming overweight than others. Those include women, children, non-whites, those who are not college graduates and the lower class (Chang, Barrett, Vosti, 2006, p. 14). In addition, being born in the U.S. did not have the same effect on weight and waist size as it did on body mass index (BMI). This shows that those born in the U.S. have a higher BMI but not physical height. There are a number of areas that need to be emphasized to reverse the problem. Watching televis ion and engaging in other seated activities, such as playing video games, have proven to be an issue. There has also been a correlation between abdominal obesity, like waist circumference, waist to hip ratio, waist to height ratio, and serious risk factors among children like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease develop as they reach adulthood (Freedman et al., 0, p.38). Another detailed study held from 2011 to 2012 had similar results. Participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey study were 9120 people who were measured in weight and height. About half of the group, 5181 people, were adults age 20 or above, 584 were infants and toddlers. The result revealed that 31.8 percent of children were overweight, of which 16.9 percent were obese. There was no difference in obesity occurrence between boys and girls in 2011 to 2012. However there were race and age differences. Non- Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black and Hispanic youth all had a higher probability of obesity than non-Hispanic Asian youth. Also non-Hispanic white youth had lower obesity frequency than non-Hispanic black and Hispanic youth. Over 8 percent of 2 to 5 year olds were obese as compared to 17.7 percent of 6 to 11 year olds and 20.5 percent of 12 to 19 year old youth. Additionally, there were 13.9 percent of teenagers age 12 to 19 with a BMI of greater than or eq ual to 30, which meets the definition of obesity in adults (Ogden, PhD, Carroll, MSPH, Kit, MD, Flegal, PhD, 2014, p.3-4). Food choices that children make have largely been influenced by the media, with television advertising targeting infants and toddlers. Many studies have focused on explaining how advertisement of fast foods, sugary snacks and many other foods with high amounts of fat, sodium and sugar are contributing to childhood obesity. Due to the high amount of hours children spend watching television, children are highly exposed to the growing number of food advertisements, which lead to unhealthy food choices. To add to the issue there is less physical activity as most of their free time is spent watching television. Extensive research has proven that time spent watching television and obesity have a direct correlation. Obesity is increased by 2 percent for every extra hour spent watching television, children that spend more than four to five hours watching television are at a higher rate of obesity than those who only watch two or less hours. (Arnas, 2006). As the appeal to children grow in fo od advertising, so do the requests by children for those advertised foods, as do the actual purchases of those foods by the parents. A fact that also seems to be overlooked is that children now have televisions in their rooms, as high as thirty percent of children age 0 to 3 and 43 percent of children 4 to 6 years of age (Connor, 2005). It is a significant factor in the likelihood of overweight children. The nutritional value of major advertised foods for children are nowhere near the recommended dietary guidelines. Parents and pediatricians seem to overlook the advertising message children are exposed to on a daily basis. The market teams behind these advertisements design them to intentionally influence children’s preference and consumption in foods. Dr. Susan Connor conducted an eye opening study on the most popular channels watched by children. In her research results, Disney Chanel had the least amount of advertisements, totaling 26 for the 5 hours that it was recorded. Of those, 17 were Disney products and 9 were of McDonald’s. PBS led second with a total of 65 advertisements, of which 39 were focused on fast food. The highest of the three was Nickelodeon, having 283 advertisements in the 5 hours, of which 41% were of fast foods such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Chuck E. Cheese. Additionally, 41 percent was used to advertise sugary cereal, 14 percent went for snacks and 4 percent to frozen treats (Connors, 2005). A large amount of fun, excitement, bright colors and actions are incorporated into children’s advertisements. Snack food advertisements are promoted as cool, uniquely shaped, brightly colored and yummy tasting. Fast food advertisements use the appeal of the latest toys as a selling point. Overall, the actions and the energy of children featured in the commercials are laughing, giggling, playing, high energy, excitement and activity. Based on the social cognitive theory, children learn to model their behaviors on what is shown by the media, including the models in their present social environment (Dixon et al, 2007). As presented by the social cognitive theory, it is expected for children that are exposed to certain patterns of eating habits modeled on television are to adopt them as their own. Positive association towards junk food as advertised on television, such as the perception that those foods are consumed by other children their age, reported to have increased the consumption of such junk food (Dixon et al., 2007). Same concept applies to advertisements of nutritious foods, positive association to healthy, nutritious alternatives can increase appeal to children. Increasing the frequency of healthy food advertisements versus fast food commercial can also promote a healthier option when faced with opposite choices. Encouraging an active lifestyle has shown to improve weight numbers. Tendency of obesity seems to lean towards women and children, so programs that encourage movement and exercise instead of television and video games are especially valuable. Those who struggle with being overweight can take on activities that emphasize muscle building, which showed to be very beneficial towards weight loss. Previous diet results showed that based on total caloric intake, it is more important to watch how much each type of food is being eaten rather than focus on the whole level of intake. Areas to focus on would be sugar and fat. A variety filled diet of fruits, vegetables, healthy carbohydrates and proteins is a good habit to develop. Children and women are especially prone to obesity, so encouragement in eating healthier foods are especially beneficial to preventing the development of the disease. It was also found that it becomes increasingly difficult to lose weight as we age, so starting health y eating habits at an early age can help continue the healthy lifestyle into adulthood, therefore preventing the development of obesity. Best treatment for obesity currently available are multi-layered lifestyle changes that focus on dietary interventions and promotions of physical activity. Furthermore, involvement of family members is a key feature of effective interventions, especially in cases of multifaceted interventions where trained experts in disciplinary teams are needed. The intensity of such an intervention should depend on the degree of obesity as well as the child’s age. In addition, parents should be sure to take their children to routine pediatric visits, during every visit a health care professional measures the weight and height of the child and assess for any unnecessary weight gain based on height. The doctor should also take into account any factors, like the child’s rate of weight gain and parents’ weight status. Health care professionals such as pediatricians and primary care doctors are viewed by parents as authorities of their child’s health. Therefore it is their p rofessional duty to make parents aware of their child’s excess weight early to allow time for prevention and intervention. Children who consume a variety of high nutrient rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, and whole grains are less likely to be overweight and obese. Child care facilities should provide meals that are high in nutrient content so as to be consistent with the healthy diet the parents have set at home, as well as ensuring that children have access to healthy foods and portions appropriate for their age. Government agencies should put high efforts into affordable nutritional meals for families in local communities, by making the most of their participation in the federal nutrition assistance programs. The federal government should also set up nutritional guidelines for children under two years of age, as it is important to start good habits at a very young age. Parents should monitor how much time a child spends per day watching television, versus how many hours they spend doing outdoor physical activities. Parents and childcare providers should also focu s on promoting healthy sleep schedules, evidence suggests that short duration of sleep is a risk factor for obesity. Yet another reason why parents need to limit television and video games, especially at night. References Arnas, Yasare. The effects of television food advertisement on children’s food purchasing requests. Pediatrics International. 2006; 48, 138-145. Carels, R.A., Young, K.M., Wott, C.B., Harper, J., Gumble, A., Oehlof, M.W., Clayton, A.M. (2009). Weight bias and weight loss treatment outcomes in treatment-seeking adults. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 37, 350-355. Chang, T., Barrett, J. M., Vosti, S. A. (2006). The Physical, Social, and Cultural Determinants of Obesity: An Empirical Study of the U.S. Connor, Susan, PhD. Food-related advertising on preschool television: Buidling brand recognition in young viewers. Pediatrics. 2005; 118, 1478-1485. Freedman, D. S., Kahn, H. S., Mei, Z., Grummer-Strawn, L. M., Dietz, W. H., Srinivasan, S. R., Berenson, G. S. (0). Relation of body mass index and waist-to-height ratio to cardiovascular disease risk factors in children and adolescents: the Bogalusa Heart Study1-4. Griffiths, L.J., Wolke, D., Page, A.S., Horwood, J.P. (2006). Obesity and bullying: different effects for boys and girls. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 91, 121-125. Nielson Media Research, 1995 Ogden, PhD, C. L., Carroll, MSPH, M. D., Kit, MD, B. K., Flegal, PhD, K. M. (2014). Prevalence of Childhood and Adult Obesity in the United States, 2011-2012 Cynthia L. Ogden, PhD; Margaret D. Carroll, MSPH; Brian K. Kit,MD, MPH; Katherine, 311(8), 3-4. Peralta AA Pere Gomis, P, The macroeconomics of obesity in the United States, Macroeconomics 0503014, Economics WPA, revised 28 Mar 2005 Story, M and French, S, â€Å"Food Advertising and Marketing Directed at Children and Adolescents in the US, Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act., 2004; 1:3. U.S. Department of Energy http://www.energy.gov/ Berk,L.E. (2012). Chapter 11. In Infants and children: Prenatal through middle childhood (p.417). Boston: Pearson Allyn Bacon.

Vanadyl Sulfate: Could it be a wonder drug for the future? :: Sports Medicine Health Essays

Vanadyl Sulfate: A Wonder Drug For The Future? Introduction In the competitive world of sports, athletes are always trying to get an edge. When practice is not enough, many athletes try to change their diets to gain an advantage over the competition. To make more educated decisions about what they eat, many athletes look closely at what happens to food once it enters their bodies. From studying the gastrointestinal and endocrine systems, athletes and researchers have learned to appreciate the role of insulin in athletic performance. In order to enhance performance, researchers have developed a product called vanadyl sulfate, which supposedly mimics the effects of insulin. While its effectiveness as a workout supplement is still in question, vanadyl sulfate also has promise as a possible alternative treatment for diabetes. The Insulin Theory To properly comprehend the importance of insulin and the rational behind wanting to increase it artificially, one must first understand the process of sugar metabolism. Sugar metabolism is the process by which the body converts food into energy that can be used by muscle cells. (http://encarta.msn.com/find/default.asp) The process begins when enzymes break down food into glucose, a simple six carbon sugar that can be easily absorbed in the intestine. From there, the hormone insulin plays several important roles. It is obvious that the cells that make up a person need energy to survive and function. Insulin is crucial in the delivery of energy to cells. In the body, glucose is the standard form of energy after digestion. Unfortunately, glucose's size and structure make it hard for the molecule to pass through the outer membranes of many of the body's cells. Insulin helps to fix this problem. Specifically, insulin bonds with the outer membrane of cells to increase permeability. This enables glucose to pass through the cell membrane more easily and gives the cell access to more energy. Without insulin, it is extremely difficult for glucose in the blood to be used by the body's cells as energy. Conversely, an abundance of insulin increases the rate at which glucose is used by the cells and therefore lowers the amount of glucose left in the bloodstream (Guyton, Hall, 972). In addition to helping to provide the cell with energy, insulin can also help the cell in other ways.

Of Personal Development, Critical Thinking and Enhanced Quality of Care Essay

In this reflection paper, I would like to relate some unforeseen events during the course as well as my experience of being assessed. The medical practitioner assigned to me was a consultant of medicine for geriatric patients. The fact that he is not a physiotherapist may be considered an unforeseen occurrence. I did not really expect him to come from a different field. The similarity in language and way of thinking of practitioners from the same field would have facilitated the process. At first, similar to my feelings in collaborating with my nurse classmates, I had the same feeling of hesitation in associating with my DMP. However, as the course progressed, I realized that he could be a very good mentor. He patiently guided me throughout all the pertinent tasks that I had to carry out. I attended the clinic with him at Saint Pancrase Hospital for the morning Clinic, which finished at twelve o’clock, then the Ward round from two o’clock at Saint Pancrase hospital for two hours. I then went to University College London Hospital for My OSCE after four o’clock at the T10 ward. For the last fifteen years I have been working in a community, this is my first time to examine a patient thoroughly in a hospital, not only to examine the patient but also to perform my Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). Since he wanted to examine me on COPD patient with some complications, he was right that it was hard on me. Yet I did it and enjoyed the experience despite the situation under pressure. It was very long observation from my DMP, which again for long time I did not observe, was indeed a complicated but a true learning experience. I am grateful to my DMP and the way he taught me. I enjoyed his teaching, his approach, and his skills as a consultant were excellent. I will miss his teaching. My experience with him made me see the value of having a competent mentor regardless of the field that one is interested in. The presence of a coach and mentor made learning easier because it made me confident that I can rely on someone who is an expert and possesses a learning attitude, as well as one who is willing to help me out in the process. Admittedly, there were some difficulties in relating with him at the beginning because we were from different fields of study. But again, this experience is a test of flexibility in adjusting to the demands of the situation. I my best to work with him and follow the guidelines and advice which he gave me. In the course of our interaction, I have learned to become more comfortable in dealing with him. There is value in having a good working relationship with one’s superiors and colleagues; it makes the learning journey so much easier. I also feel that I should further develop a mentoring relationship with an expert in this field to be able to reach my full my potential. Empirical research from both educational and industrial settings suggests that students and employees both have increased probability of success if they have had a mentor. While mentors are effective for everyone, sometimes organisations implement mentoring programs to support particular parts of their populations, often newer employees. And while mentoring programs are always established with the best of intentions, their results are often mixed (Werner, 2004). To make the most of my clinical exposure, I hope to establish a strong mentoring relationship with a doctor or a medical allied professional who will be able to coach me on increasing competence in my clinical practice. I have realised that coaching and mentoring are very effective ways of developing my leadership potential because it does not only develop me in terms of technical expertise, but it will also allow me to actually experience how these experts undergo the coaching and mentoring exercise. I have also realised that a novice in any medical allied field acquires clinical judgment and skill over time. Knowledge is refined through actual clinical experience; this moves her from a rule-based, context-free stage to a more analytical, logical and intentional pattern of thinking (Benner, Tanner, & Chelsea, 1996). To effectively provide a conducive learning environment, these medical professionals need venues for examining and developing their problem solving and reasoning skills towards making clinical judgments (Miller, 1992). I realised that such venues transpire through numerous learning experiences. In particular, I am contemplating about being able to practice in a large hospital to permit such comprehensive clinical exposure. I have also realised that participating in varied learning experiences offers the chance to apply classroom theory in the clinical setting. This was a point that was shared with me by my DMP. Clinical experiences enable the formation of meaningful related information on the basis of what the nurse has learned in the classroom. There is an expectation that with more experience, this novice can move from the level of advanced beginner to the level of competence by program completion. Clinical judgment is defined as nursing decisions about which areas to assess, analyzing health data, prioritizing which task to do, and who should carry it out (Carnaveli & Thomas, 1993). For clinical judgment to be assessed as sound, it should be arrived at using critical thinking and logical reasoning, that will enable the deduction of valid conclusions, and the decisions that may be borne from these. I am thankful for this experience as they have given me profound insight on the areas that I could further develop to become a more competent professional in this field.

The Board of Governance

The Board of Governance , IMF is the firm whose existence has to be ensured and the primary shareholders are those whose presence in the body ensures that the body continues to survive. Basically, it can be argued that all the members and employees of the body constitute the primary stakeholders of the organization. This is explained below: The Board of Governance This is the highest level of governance at the organization. Thought this board delegates most of the tasks of running the organization to the Executive Committee, it should be noted that this board actually determines the existence of the organization because of the authority to accept and compulsorily withdrawals of members of the body. This board also has the authority to amend the by laws and articles of agreement. The board approves the quota increases and special drawing rights s allocations. It should be noted that the board of Governors are in charge of ensuring that the executive committee are elected and run the body. This board therefore is the core of all the operations of IMF. It is clear that without this board the body will not be able to run and thus the board of governors is part of the primary stakeholders. The names of the members are listed in the official website of IMF The constituencies The objective of the body is to ensure that there is cooperation in terms of international monetary and that the macroeconomic conditions become stable. It should be noted that this body was formed with an aim of stabilizing the global economy through shifting of surpluses to regions of deficits. For this objective to be achieved there has to be cooperation by from both the regions (constituencies) with surpluses and those with deficits. The constituencies consisting of the wealthy developed nations such as USA, UK, France, Japan and Germany are very vital for the existence of IMF as they control 40 percent of the funds vote share. Without these five members it is true that there will be no funds to loan out and hence the body can not exist without them. They also truly form part of the primary stakeholders. The members from the other constituencies for instance Africa Group I and II constituencies equally form part of the primary stakeholders because without these them the IMF funds can not be loaned and thus defeating the purpose of the existence of the body and hence its survival. It should be noted that the major contributors of the body (the five permanent members) do not get loans from the funds and thus if the body has to survive it is very evident that the constituencies consisting of poor nations for instance Kenya, Congo, Korea etcetera must be part of the body for it to survive and thus they too form part of the primary stakeholders.

Environmental Ethics and the Principles of Pluralism and Environmental Pragmatism Essays

Environmental Ethics and the Principles of Pluralism and Environmental Pragmatism Essays Environmental Ethics and the Principles of Pluralism and Environmental Pragmatism Paper Environmental Ethics and the Principles of Pluralism and Environmental Pragmatism Paper by Chum Hamilton Environmental Ethics ENV362 Professor Dave Williams August 16, 2008 CONTENTS Pluralism and Environmental Pragmatism3 My Response6 References9 Pluralism and Environmental Pragmatism With the widely differing theoretical environmental ethic philosophical frameworks that are currently espoused, it is clear that a single unified theory has not yet emanated from this discipline. This has frustrated â€Å"monists† within the discipline. Monists contend that there must be a single environmental ethic framework that is the only true framework. Underpinning this standpoint is the idea that environmental ethics would be devoid of any objectivity if there is not a single â€Å"true† theoretical framework: â€Å"One strong motivation behind moral monism is the fear of the alternative. Without a single unified and coherent theory, we seem relegated to ethical relativism† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 262). In contrast to the monists, â€Å"pluralists† are those who â€Å"accept the possibility that more than one basic approach can be legitimate† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 262) and they subscribe to â€Å"a plurality of moral truths,† as opposed to the relativist, who contends that lack of a single truth means that there can be no moral truth. Desjardins notes that â€Å"perhaps it is a mistake to apply scientific and mathematical standards to ethics. Perhaps we are asking too much when we seek clear, unambiguous and certain decisions on ethical matters. Perhaps we can be rational about ethical matters without having unequivocal, definitive answers† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 263). Environmental pragmatism acknowledges moral pluralism, and focuses less on what is true, per se, and more on what it is that we should do about issues. It is a very â€Å"contextual† approach in that each issue presents its own complexities that need to be reviewed in order to begin to make a decision. Pragmatists â€Å"understand that practical reasoning may not always offer unambiguous advice† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 66). Desjardins also goes on to describe that â€Å"pragmatism also supports democratic values such as tolerance and respect for diverse opinions and the commitment to engaging in free and open procedures for deciding rather than seeking the single ‘true’ decision† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 266). Desjardin then goes on to note that he had a personal experience where a task force had to make a difference. Apparent ly, the task force was not able to make much headway in its first two years of existence. He contends that this resulted from the fact that the first two years were characterized by the task force members coming at the issue unyieldingly from whatever their theoretical viewpoint was that they began the meetings with. He feels that once the task force began focusing on what the different participants actually did already agree on that they really started to gain momentum and make headway with the issue: â€Å"the alternative began with the practical matter of getting things done, and it did this by starting with specific issues on which people agreed. Ultimately, ‘theory’ followed practice in the sense that the final governing principle was developed out of the agreed upon starting points† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 267). Critics of environmental pragmatism claim that the decision plans that emanate from this pragmatism approach are really nothing more than more of the same. In other words, they still reflect business as usual and the status quo. Pragmatists feel as if this criticism is not valid because they view the pragmatic approach to decision-making as a venue through which opinions not in step with the status quo get surfaced so that more people may benefit from them as they make decisions. In other words, because this process makes differing positions known and because it makes the black-box of the decision-making process transparent, then it opens the door for the status quo to evolve: â€Å"as values are brought in line with practices, they evolve to guide future practices, which in turn shape future values† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 268). Critics also feel that because pragmatism relies heavily on the notion that decisions should be made within that context within which they arise that it must, therefore, be relativistic. Desjardins notes that pragmatists have responded to this criticism by claiming that they are more interested in what is reasonable as opposed to what is true. And, further, they hold that there are standards to reasonableness that are upheld: 1) intellectual and moral openness, 2) intellectual and moral care, and 3) attention to detail. These standards â€Å"prevent the collapse of pragmatism into relativism† (Desjardins, 2006, p. 69). My Response Information I have read to date regarding pluralism and environmental pragmatism leads me to believe that these approaches are more aligned with my own personal values and ethical beliefs than are the other environmental ethics frameworks we have surveyed in this class. However, I would not be comfortable referring to pluralism and environmental prag matism as an â€Å"environmental ethic framework† in and of itself. It strikes me more like a valid decision-making process that may eventually lead to establishing a more coherent framework rather than a framework itself. As Kelly Parker noted in her chapter in Environmental Pragmatism, â€Å"Pragmatism sees philosophical ethics as an ongoing attempt to determine what is good, and what actions are right† (Parker, 1996, p. 30). It also strikes me as the only way we will actually be able to get anything done with respect to solving/mitigating environmental problems in the meantime while the debates over the â€Å"correct unified theory† continue. However, I am not too deeply discounting the role of theoretical environmental ethic frameworks- without these multiple frameworks, the â€Å"plural† would be taken out of â€Å"pluralism. Obviously, these theories will (and should) continue to evolve. I just feel that when we are dealing with environmental issues, we should look to pluralism and pragmatism as our â€Å"first responder. † In many situations, we are in an environmental emergency and time is of the essence. Pragmatic approaches are probably the only approaches that ca n be agreed upon the fastest. Imagine the time it would take us to agree on the one â€Å"true† theory before we were able to even decide what to do! It will take a lot less time to agree on at least some things that can be done now in order to help solve environmental issues. Supporting the notion that theory should not be too deeply discounted if pragmatism is to gain ground is Piers H. G. Stevens, the feature editor for the Sage publication Organization and Environment. In his book review of Bryan G. Norton’s Sustainability: A Philosophy of Adaptive Ecosystem Management voices a concern that political participation has waned and corporate monopoly power has grown and that this situation threatens true democracy. Consequently, he doesn’t share Norton’s desire to dispose with theory and focus only on the pragmatic. He feels that theory is needed as inspiration â€Å"to help reclaim true democracy in the public sphere. (pg 391). Thus it seems to me that theory without pragmatism is foolish, but pragmatism without theory is just as foolish. I very much enjoyed the way that Desjardins ended the textbook chapter on pluralism and environmental pragmatism. He made note of the three pillars of sustainable development when writing â€Å"A s ustainable future must be sustainable on three related grounds: economic, environmental, and ethical. † (pg. 269). Reviewing the issues that were brought up in this course allowed me to see that for many, many years we have gone about our business as if we were in a vacuum and that environmental issues didn’t need our attention. This â€Å"discounting environmental matters† is clearly the wrong way to approach our current and future existence. However, we should not let the pendulum swing too far in the other direction where we discount economic needs. It is true that too much of a focus on economic considerations may have caused us to be short-sighted. However, we should not lose sight of the importance of the economy. We have in fact already done this if you ask me. In my opinion, we did this a while back when we elevated the notion of the â€Å"economy† so high up that we let people become subservient to the â€Å"economy. All interests- environmental, social, spiritual, and individual- may be better served if we take a view of the economy where the â€Å"economy should be for the people† not where â€Å"the people should be for the economy. † In many ways, our economy is also very much part of our human habitat and we must be concerned with it since it is the venue through wh ich we are able to work in exchange for goods and services that we NEED. Of course, there are also plenty of goods and services that we don’t need. These are expressions of our wants as opposed to our needs. Human survival is as important as is the survival of anything else on this planet. However, it is undoubtedly the case that notions of human comfort should be revisited in light of the importance of the survival of other things on this planet. References Desjardins, J. (2006). Environmental Ethics: An Introduction to Environmental Philosophy (4th ed. ). Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth. Parker, K. (1996). Pragmatism and environmental thought. In A. Light E. Katz (Eds. ), Environmental Pragmatism (pp. 21-37). New York: Routledge. Stephens, P. (2007). Sustainability, democracy, and pragmatism in Bryan Nortons philosophy of ecosystem management. Organization and Environment, 20, 386-392.