Corruption In Nigeria Essay examples - 1156 Words

Corruption can be defined as the use of entrusted power to accumulate public wealthy for personal benefit. Corruption is not peculiar to any country, continent or state; it is sure a global issue which is an endemic to all government all over the world. However, corruption is prevalent in the Niger delta region of Nigeria; public officers in this oil producing state of Nigeria are corrupt. Consequently, it has defied the Niger delta from developing politically and economically which has left the states reputation in a mess. Radicalization of youths, abject poverty and -political instability are the three leading effects of corruption in the Niger delta region of Nigeria. Corruption in the Niger delta region of Nigeria has led to†¦show more content†¦Most children in the Niger delta have little or no education, due to lack of funds from their parents who have lost their lands and have no jobs because of limited opportunities. The Niger delta government and the oil companies h ave refused to look into the situation; instead they favor their close relations neglecting the masses. Corruption in the Niger delta has led some youths in taking drastic measure in order to put food on their table. For example, Ikechukwu Efe an indigene of the Niger delta said that some of his friends created their own â€Å"oil refinery†, which is made up of crude oil in metal barrels with controlled heat from fire woods. This is a dangerous process in refining crude oil but the degree of poverty in the state left his friends with no choice. If only the government of the Niger delta have created jobs with the wealth of the state Ikechukwu’s friend would not have to put their lives in danger. Until corruption is put to an abrupt the people of the Niger delta will continue to live in poverty. Corruption in the Niger delta region of Nigeria as resulted in youths becoming militants and kidnappers which have led to killing of innocent individuals. During the past few years a lot of people have died in the Niger delta due to violent killings because of dispute over oil revenue and compensation. Most of these atrocities are carried out main by youths, who are agitated by the corrupt practice of theShow MoreRelatedNigeria And Keny Corruption Essay1546 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout the last 10 years, Nigeria and Kenya have been partly free. Corruption is the greatest indicator among both for the lack of democracy. In Nigeria, corruption stems from the problem with oil, it leads to political violence, repression and unchecked government power. In Kenya, corruption arises from economic interests, causing political instability and hindering development. In addition to that, both experience electoral corruption. Conversely, civil societies active participation in theRead Mo reLegal Corruption In Nigeria1620 Words   |  7 Pagesgreat extent, to the credibility of the ICC as it has hitherto been a major hindrance in the fight against corruption in some States. For instance, section 308 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria still provides for the â€Å"immunity clause† for some elected officers and has shielded certain political office holders from legal prosecution while in office, notwithstanding the weight of any corruption allegation against them. Article 5 (1) of the Rome Statute sets out the crimes within the jurisdiction ofRead MoreEffects Of Political Corruption In Nigeria1716 Words   |  7 PagesPolitical corruption is a significant problem in Africa. Many of the regions in Africa were seeking for independence from European nations that had caused for political views to differ. The ideas of leaders were not all similar which may have created a majority of these countries in Africa to express their feelings and form their own political parties. Besides wanting to be freed from European rule, the rise of political corruption could also be faulted to the African leaders of different regionsRead MoreNigeria Is The Chronic Level Of Corruption1566 Words   |  7 Pages STATEMENT OF PROBLEM Nigeria is a country of promise that is hampered by a series of huge challenges. One of the most pervasive and destructive issues facing Nigeria is the chronic level of corruption. Africa’s most populous country with over 170 million people, modern Nigeria emerged from British colonialism gaining full independence in 1960. After many years of military rule, a 1999 constitution heralded a move to a civilian democratic government which has been in place ever since. (Africa:NigeriaRead MoreCorruption in Nigeria Tertiary Institution3085 Words   |  13 Pages INTRODUCTION: Nigeria, a nation endowed with natural, human and capital resources with a population of over 160 million people an estimated growth rate of 4.65 percent and covers 923.8 thousand square kilometers, about the size of California, Nevada and Arizona states in the United States, (Usman, 2007). Nigeria as a country, is the eight largest oil exporting country in the world and its oil reserves are estimated over 1000 trillion cubic feet (Usman, 2007). It is unfortunate that a countryRead MoreConceptual and Theoretical Understanding of Corruption in Nigeria5316 Words   |  22 PagesCONCEPTUAL AND THEORETICAL APPROACHES TO THE UNDERSTANDING OF CORRUPTION IN NIGERIA AUTHOR: OBAH-AKPOWOGHAHA, NELSON GOLDPIN CURRENT INSTITUTION/AFILIATION: Post Graduate (Msc) Student at Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife Osun State, Nigeria. Department of Political Science, P. O. Box 2006 OAU Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Email: goldefc2all@yahoo.co.uk. Tel: +2348062698441 ABSTRACT The paper discusses theoretical perspectives of corruption, its causes, forms, pattern that it has taken and devices used toRead MoreKellog Brown Root in Nigeria Corruption Case1160 Words   |  5 PagesKellogg Brown Root in Nigeria Corruption Case The firm Halliburton acquired Dresser Industries in the year of 1998. Among Dresser’s businesses was M. W. Kellog, which was combined with an existing Halliburton business and renamed Kellog Brown and Root. By that time, Kellog was expecting to build a series of liquefied natural gas in Nigeria, but in order to do that it was required to win an initial contract form the Nigerian Government. At the beginning everything was going according to plans,Read MoreThe Rebirth Of New Nigeria: War On Corruption And Restoring1529 Words   |  7 PagesTHE REBIRTH OF NEW NIGERIA: WAR ON CORRUPTION AND RESTORING THE CONFIDENCE OF INVESTORS ADDRESS BY: COLONEL HAMEED IBRAHIM ALI (RETIRED) COMPTROLLER GENERAL, NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE DELIVERED AT NIGERIA ARAB ECONOMIC SUMMIT 2017 MARCH 13, 2017. RITZ CARLTON INTERNATIONAL FINANCE CENTRE DUBAI, UAE 1. Introduction: The renewal of Nigeria’s promise to its citizens is a process that requires a vision of prosperity, security, productivity and global pride. This cannot be achieved without seriousRead MoreA Culture of Corruption: Everyday Deception and Popular Discontent in Nigeria by Daniel Jordan Smith916 Words   |  4 Pagessentiment toward corruption but also to explore just how entrenched corrupt practices have become in society. The book focuses on two main elements; how Nigeria is as much a ‘culture of corruption’ as it is ‘against corruption’ (p. 6). The standard discourse that exists between Nigerians themselves as well as the rest of the world is that Nigeria has a history of debilitating corruption. Smith’s work is therefore appealing to a variety of audiences. The portrayal of this corruption in the media isRead MoreNigeri A Long, Complicated And Tragic History1703 Words   |  7 PagesNigeria is known for having a long, complicated and tragic history. Since achieving independence in 1960, Nigeria has struggled to stabilize its government. Nigeria’s history is studded with military coups and corruption. The rule of numerous coups, which have occurred relatively close together over a span of about twenty nine years, make it extremely difficult for a stable form of democratic government to be created. Instead of a true democracy, Nigeria suffers under a kleptocratic government. Nigeria’s

Short Story - 950 Words

Over three hundred years ago... How did I get here? His lips moved but everything else was quiet. Too quiet, too still. He was sitting with his legs swung over the bed, elbows on his knees. Sunlight bled through the window, casting shadows across the wooden floor. It made him angry. Its not fair. Rage rose slowly like a body might through water, filling up his chest until he felt whole, but it only lasted a second. That wholeness slipped like blood through his fingers and suddenly he was just a broken man mad at the sun for shining. The assassin looked down, reaching to brush his fingers upon the blood stain at his feet. He found it funny, that not one of the servants had been able to wash away the stain when there hadnt been a trace†¦show more content†¦Enzo Arobynn did not cry, weapons did not weep. Day 3,408. I can do this. He rose from the bed and dressed, halfway through buttoning up his shirt when she rolled onto her back and stretched, perfectly comfortable as the sheets fell away and she cast a laz y smile towards him. For some reason her eyes did not sparkle when they light hit him, they had always been like marbles. Reflective and cold. Good morning, Love.Lins voice was a soft coo, it did not sound like ringing bells as Kaltains had, it was not the low, smooth rumble of quiet thunder like Nixons, nor was it smooth as a violin strings like Vestas honey tone. It was rough and raw like nails on a chalk board, damaged by smoke from the fire that Lin had breathed into her soul. In that moment, hands frozen on a button, he hated her. He hated her more than he ever had, he told himself, and in the next second some part of him wanted to love her too as she blinked sleepily at him. I do not love you. Enzo said so softly that he knew she had not heard, because he said this as he dressed after waking up in her bed, and if it was possible to hate himself more than he already did then he felt it. And then, after a very slow moment he realized he had not said it at all. The assassins fingers crept to his lips and passed gently over Adoras carefully stitching in gold thread. He couldnt even tell real silence from his own thoughts anymore. He felt it with every slow beat of hisShow MoreRelatedshort story1018 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿Short Stories:  Ã‚  Characteristics †¢Short  - Can usually be read in one sitting. †¢Concise:  Ã‚  Information offered in the story is relevant to the tale being told.  Ã‚  This is unlike a novel, where the story can diverge from the main plot †¢Usually tries to leave behind a  single impression  or effect.  Ã‚  Usually, though not always built around one character, place, idea, or act. †¢Because they are concise, writers depend on the reader bringing  personal experiences  and  prior knowledge  to the story. Four MajorRead MoreThe Short Stories Ideas For Writing A Short Story Essay1097 Words   |  5 Pageswriting a short story. Many a time, writers run out of these short story ideas upon exhausting their sources of short story ideas. If you are one of these writers, who have run out of short story ideas, and the deadline you have for coming up with a short story is running out, the short story writing prompts below will surely help you. Additionally, if you are being tormented by the blank Microsoft Word document staring at you because you are not able to come up with the best short story idea, youRead MoreShort Story1804 Words   |  8 PagesShort story: Definition and History. A  short story  like any other term does not have only one definition, it has many definitions, but all of them are similar in a general idea. According to The World Book Encyclopedia (1994, Vol. 12, L-354), â€Å"the short story is a short work of fiction that usually centers around a single incident. Because of its shorter length, the characters and situations are fewer and less complicated than those of a novel.† In the Cambridge Advanced Learner’s DictionaryRead MoreShort Stories648 Words   |  3 Pageswhat the title to the short story is. The short story theme I am going conduct on is â€Å"The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’ by James Thurber (1973). In this short story the literary elements being used is plot and symbols and the theme being full of distractions and disruption. The narrator is giving a third person point of view in sharing the thoughts of the characters. Walter Mitty the daydreamer is very humorous in the different plots of his dr ifting off. In the start of the story the plot, symbols,Read MoreShort Stories1125 Words   |  5 PagesThe themes of short stories are often relevant to real life? To what extent do you agree with this view? In the short stories â€Å"Miss Brill† and â€Å"Frau Brechenmacher attends a wedding† written by Katherine Mansfield, the themes which are relevant to real life in Miss Brill are isolation and appearance versus reality. Likewise Frau Brechenmacher suffers through isolation throughout the story and also male dominance is one of the major themes that are highlighted in the story. These themes areRead MoreShort Story and People1473 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿Title: Story Of An Hour Author: Kate Chopin I. On The Elements / Literary Concepts The short story Story Of An Hour is all about the series of emotions that the protagonist, Mrs. Mallard showed to the readers. With the kind of plot of this short story, it actually refers to the moments that Mrs. Mallard knew that all this time, her husband was alive. For the symbol, I like the title of this short story because it actually symbolizes the time where Mrs. Mallard died with joy. And with thatRead MoreShort Story Essay1294 Words   |  6 PagesA short story concentrates on creating a single dynamic effect and is limited in character and situation. It is a language of maximum yet economical effect. Every word must do a job, sometimes several jobs. Short stories are filled with numerous language and sound devices. These language and sound devices create a stronger image of the scenario or the characters within the text, which contribute to the overall pre-designed effect.As it is shown in the metaphor lipstick bleeding gently in CinnamonRead MoreRacism in the Short Stor ies1837 Words   |  7 PagesOften we read stories that tell stories of mixing the grouping may not always be what is legal or what people consider moral at the time. The things that you can learn from someone who is not like you is amazing if people took the time to consider this before judging someone the world as we know it would be a completely different place. The notion to overlook someone because they are not the same race, gender, creed, religion seems to be the way of the world for a long time. Racism is so prevalentRead MoreThe Idol Short Story1728 Words   |  7 PagesThe short stories â€Å"The Idol† by Adolfo Bioy Casares and â€Å"Axolotl† by Julio Cortà ¡zar address the notion of obsession, and the resulting harm that can come from it. Like all addictions, obsession makes one feel overwhelmed, as a single thought comes to continuously intruding our mind, causing the individual to not be able to ignore these thoughts. In â€Å"Axolotl†, the narr ator is drawn upon the axolotls at the Jardin des Plantes aquarium and his fascination towards the axolotls becomes an obsession. InRead MoreGothic Short Story1447 Words   |  6 Pages The End. In the short story, â€Å"Emma Barrett,† the reader follows a search party group searching for a missing girl named Emma deep in a forest in Oregon. The story follows through first person narration by a group member named Holden. This story would be considered a gothic short story because of its use of setting, theme, symbolism, and literary devices used to portray the horror of a missing six-year-old girl. Plot is the literal chronological development of the story, the sequence of events

Discuss substance abuse on the job Free Essays

Substance abuse in the workplace is defined as overdependence on or overindulgence in a certain chemical substance resulting to effects that harm the mental and physical health of the individual or the wellbeing of others. The substance taken by the abuser does not have any medicinal or therapeutic effect on the individual. Substance abuse at the workplace is not a new issue but the problem has affected many companies and business organizations for a long time. We will write a custom essay sample on Discuss substance abuse on the job or any similar topic only for you Order Now Some of the most common substances that are abused in the workplace include alcohol, opium alkaloids, cocaine and barbiturates among others (King and Chassin, 2008: 629-637). Abuse of substances not only affects the workplace but it may also lead to criminal penalty and at the same time the individual involved may be harmed socially, physically and also psychologically depending on the local authority within the individual’s environment. Substance abuse in most cases results to substance dependence or addiction to the substance and so the individual is unable to work without the substance. Individuals who are addicted or dependent on a certain substances need to develop some tolerance for them to cope with the problem and these results to withdrawal symptoms. Substance dependence and abuse are different from substance addiction in that addiction involves duress to using the substance no matter the negative effects of the substance on the individual and in some cases it may involve chemical dependence although not always. Substance dependence implies some kind of abuse although abuse takes place without dependence and in most cases it occurs when an employee first engages in the abuse of the substance. Dependence is a physiological process and on the other hand substance abuse shows an intricate interaction between the individual, the society and the substance abused by the individual (King and Chassin, 2008: 629-637). SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN THE JOB Substance abuse in the workplace is not a new concept and at various instances throughout history there have been issues of substance abuse in the workplace. In the past years the abuse of substances in the work place has encountered a dismissive attitude and so many organizations have tried to adopt working with the problem rather than developing ways to counter the issue. Many organizations have therefore come to a conclusion that substance abuse and especially alcohol abuse in the workplace is not a problem that can easily be secluded from the workplace. Currently it has emerged that substance abuse is detrimental both to the workers and the organization although this concept has not been universally accepted. Most organizations have realized that for them to be internationally competitive they need to deal with the issue of substance abuse among the employees in an effective manner. The following are some of the reasons behind substance abuse in the workplace: Psychological disorders are a cause of substance abuse in cases where some employees use substance abuse so as to reject, adapt to or hide a fundamental psychological disorder. Depression in the workplace may also lead to substance abuse because it affects an individual’s ability to work effectively in the daily activities like caring for family members and going to work. Schizophrenia is also another cause of substance abuse in the workplace. Panic disorder in the workplace leads to periods of irrational fear and this may lead to substance abuse so as to get rid of the fear. Social phobia may also lead to substance abuse. Social phobia affects an individual when he or she has an intense fear of being humiliated socially, this happens when the person does not want to embarrass himself in front of other workmates. Emotional stress may also lead to substance abuse in the workplace. Emotional stress in the workplace may be as a result of a lot of work or difficulties in the family of the affected individual. There are a number of syndromes that may lead to substance abuse in the work place, these include: Austrian syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome and also the Gulf War syndrome. Harassment in the workplace may also lead to substance abuse as a result of trying to cope with the threats posed by the harassment (wrong diagnosis, 2009). Although the above factors may result to substance abuse in the workplace some individuals may become addicted while others do not. This is because of the following factors: The genes that people are born with are very unique and this means that the level of addiction of people varies due to the genes present. Gender, social status, ethnicity and other mental disorders also affect the level of addiction to a certain substance. An individual’s environment which includes the family, friends, workmates and the quality of life affect the individual’s risk of substance abuse. Peer pressure and parental guidance affect the course of substance abuse and the level of addiction of an individual. The level of addiction vulnerability is affected by developmental stages of the individual. Although substance abuse at any developmental stage may lead to addiction there is evidence to show that the earlier the substance abuse begins the more likely it is to progress to serious cases of addiction. Adolescents have a higher chance of trying substances because their brains are still undergoing development in the sections that determine self-control, decision making and judgment (Robert and Neil, 2009). SYMPTOMS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE AT THE WORKPLACE Different substances may have differing effects on the overall health of the individual but the pattern of the effects on the individual’s mental and physical health is similar. Acquiring and at the same time using the substance becomes more essential to an individual as compared to everything else like friends, workmates or the family. Substance abuse causes some emotional and physical damages to the individual and so the individual is faced with a problem of functioning in the right way and also the ability of the individual to make appropriate judgments is also affected. Substance abuse affects the brain and the physical body in a direct way as it is the case in some substances that increase the blood pressure and the heart rate. Some substances that act as stimulants in the body for example cocaine increasing the activities of the body resulting to increased blood pressure and therefore the individual lacks the ability to sleep. On the other hand there are some substances that slow down the level of activities in the body for example barbiturates, these substances reduce the blood pressure of the body and also reduce the level of breathing and sometimes it may go to some dangerous levels. There are several physical signs of substance abuse and addiction in the workplace which include some instances of increased energy. This is when an individual is seen to act in a way that shows he or she has some increased energy although the source of the energy may not be known. One major symptom associated with stimulants is restlessness and the lack of sleep by the worker. Although some workers may be naturally restlessness it is always necessary to carefully note any changes in the workers’ levels of restlessness as it may be as a result of substance abuse. Some strange behaviors expressed by the workers may be a symptom of substance abuse, some of these behaviors include: slow reaction time, unusual slow movements, slow speeches or confusion at the workplace. Most of these behaviors are common with those individuals who abuse opium or barbiturates. Another symptom is a rapid loss of weight or in some instances it may be a sudden gain in weight. Cycles of abnormal sleep is also a symptom of substance abuse. A rapid change in the manner of dressing may also be a symptom of substance abuse, for example wearing long sleeved shirts at all times so as to hide the scars caused by injections in the process of substance abuse. An increased severe dental condition is a symptom mostly with those workers who use methamphetamine. If a certain worker is suspected of being in possession of drug paraphernalia like syringes and pipes, this may be an indicator of substance abuse by the worker. A major symptom for those substances that are snorted is severe troubles with nosebleeds or frequent nose bleeding. Substances that are normally smoked have a major symptom of continuous coughs which at high levels of substance abuse may increase to coughing of blood or excessive mucus. Substance abuse affects the mood of the individual because the substance is consumed to provide temporary feelings to the individual. The temporary feeling resulting from substance abuse may vary with the substance used by the individual although the following are the major emotional and mental symptoms of substance abuse. A period of an individual being unusually talkative with a lot of energy or some times the individual becoming unusually cheerful is a major emotional symptom of substance abuse. An increase in the level of verge for violence expressed by the individual is another emotional symptom of substance abuse. Workers who show signs of increased irritability, fury and agitation may be involved in substance abuse. Another major emotional and mental symptom of substance abuse is unexpected calmness or workers becoming unresponsive. Lack of interest and depression may also be an emotional symptom of substance abuse. Other minor emotional and mental symptoms include hallucinations, fear, temporary psychosis and increased anger (Joanna, Jeanne and Deborah, January 2009). Other physical signs that indicate a person is abusing a certain substance or he is under the influence of a certain substance vary from one substance to another, for example: A worker who uses tobacco will have a frequent odor of tobacco, discolored teeth and finger tips. Individuals who use cannabis experience abnormal levels of hunger, excessive happiness and the white parts of their eyes are red in color. Those who use cold medications have slow heart rates and are sleepy at most times. Inhalants are characterized by running noses confusion and irritability of the users. Users of narcotics experience pain at a lower level, slow rates of breathing and excessive happiness. Those who use anabolic steroids experience an increase in their levels of irritability, increased muscle development and loss of hair. Dissociative anesthetics are associated with an increase in the heart rate resulting to increased blood pressure, loss of memory and also increased irritability. Hallucinogens are associated with sleeplessness and blurred perceptions. Club drugs are associated with very active individuals who do not sweat and they also seem to like everyone they meet or having excessive euphoria. The following behavioral symptoms are associated with the abuse of substances. Mood swings: All the substances abused end up producing some changes in the moods of the individual, a person may shift from euphoria to depression. A person who is into abuse of substances may be passive at one time and in the next few minutes he is angry. Personality changes are also a symptom of abuse of substances in the workplace. This is evident in that individuals become depressed and avoid communication with their workmates. Defensiveness is also a symptom of substance abuse in the workplace because individuals blame others and they claim to be accused falsely. Those who are into substance abuse soon become self-centered and they do anything their own way without consulting their workmates. Withdrawal from family activities is also a symptom of workers engaging in substance abuse, this includes rejecting any family events or not eating together with the other family members. Change of friends, for example termination of a long relationship or spending time with suspicious friends is a behavioral symptom of substance abuse. Sudden lack of self discipline and capability to follow rules and regulations in the workplace is a sign of substance abuse too. Work problems like absences, tardiness, avoiding senior staff members, missed deadlines and a drop in the quality of results obtained is a behavioral sign of substance abuse. EFFECTS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE ON PERFORMANCE AND WORKSAFETY According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), in the recent years there has been an increased realization in many countries concerning the effects of substance abuse on the performance of the employees. The fact that substance abuse is detrimental to both the employees and the organization has been widely accepted in the past few years although the issue has not been recognized universally. Substance abuse does not only affect the performance of the work as a whole but it also results to increased accidents, absenteeism, mortality and illness. These effects of substance abuse are related to the cost of doing business and therefore for businesses to succeed they should come up with ways of reducing substance abuse among the employees. Over the past few years studies have shown that absenteeism is three times higher for substance users compared to other employees (ILO, 2009). Absenteeism has a direct effect on the business in that the business may not achieve its target therefore it may be unable to satisfy its customers and hence a negative reputation from the public in general. Absenteeism due to substance abuse leads to overwork of the other employees which may then result to poor quality of work leading to poor quality goods and reduced sales. Very high rates of absenteeism in an organization as a result of substance abuse may lead to complete closure of the organization due to lack of employees. Study has also shown that employees who are substance abusers may claim three times more sickness benefits compared to the other employees (ILO, 2009). The sick benefits increase the cost of operation of the business and so the business suffers financially because a huge portion of its returns is used to cater for the sick benefits. Workers who are substance dependent file more compensation claims as compared to those who are not, this increases the expenses the organization incurs in litigation processes and therefore it reduces the profitability of the organization. Study has also revealed that almost a quarter of all the accidents that occur in the workplaces are caused by intoxicated workers who either harm themselves or end up harming other workmates, this reduces the performance of the organization as resources are used in treating the injured. Accidents due to intoxication of some workers also lead to absence of workers which is fatal to the organization (ILO, 2009). As a result of increased research in the area of substance abuse and work performance it is evident that the problems in the workplace as a result of substance abuse are not restricted to alcoholics and drug addicts only. Although alcoholics and heavy drinkers are groups most likely to cause accidents in the workplaces their numbers are quite low in most of the workplaces. Due to this moderate and occasional drinkers are responsible for most accidents in the workplace resulting due to alcohol or intoxication. The level of consumption of some substances is directly related to the performance of the individual. According to a research carried out to investigate the effects of alcohol on the performance of pilots, it was noted that before any consumption of alcohol 10% of the pilots could not carry out their operations in the right manner. After consumption of alcohol up to an alcohol-blood concentration of 0. 11/100ml of blood, 90% of the pilots could not perform all the necessary operations in the right way. After all the alcohol had gotten out of their systems 65% of the pilots could not carry out all their operations in the right way (ILO, 2009). A similar research to the one carried on pilots was carried on workers who use other types of substances and the results were almost the same. This is a clear indication of the fact that substance abuse negatively affects the performance of workers therefore leading to poor results. Research has identified not only those areas that are at the risk of substance abuse but it has also identified the reasons behind the occurrence of substance abuse problems in some industries and not in all industries. Out of a number of major workplaces that were researched upon the following were identified as the areas that are most likely to be affected by substance abuse: construction industry, military, transport sector, catering sector, maritime sector and the entertainment services industry. Workers who are of a lower status and young are more likely to indulge into substance abuse and hence their performance in the workplace is quite low. The other groups of workers who reduce the performance of their industries due to substance abuse are lawyers, doctors, police officers and company directors. The performance of workers who engage themselves in substance abuse is highly affected due to the fact that this group of workers tends to fall sick more frequently as compared to the other workers and therefore their level of performance is below the optimum. Substance abuse also affects organizations in that it lowers the productivity of the organization because of absenteeism, accidents and health issues related to the workers. Family problems also occur due to substance abusing and these problems may end up being extended to the workplace, for example a husband who is into substance abuse may cause problems in his home that may affect the productivity of the wife in her workplace. Job loss is another effect of substance abuse and these leads to lack of enough workers in the workplace and therefore the productivity of the organization is greatly affected. Substance abuse affects the employers in that it leads to safety problems that affect the whole organization, the employees and the general public and it also increases the costs incurred by the organization, decreases the productivity of the organization and reduces the competitive advantage of the organization. Security of most enterprises whose workers are into substance abuse is also affected because some substances may cause individuals to be angry and violent. Violence in any enterprise affects the performance of the enterprise because the workers are not freely working as they fear being affected by actions of those workers who are into substance abuse. Substance abuse also leads to continued disagreements in the workplace and therefore the workers spend a lot of time arguing, this time would have however been spent in productive activities of the enterprise. Health issues that are as a result of substance abuse affect the performance of the workers; a good example of this is the case of alcohol. Excessive consumption of alcohol leads to health problems as a result of liver failure, workers who are affected by this condition may find it difficult to work at their normal rates and this causes them to reduce their performance level in the workplace. Employers will mostly make the decision of not adopting substance testing policies because they assume that they will confidently detect the abuse of substances among their employees. Regrettably the effects of substance use are rarely noticeable in the first stages until the employers have greatly incurred losses as a result of substance abuse. Those beginning substance abuse are not likely to portray the typical characteristics of a substance user although the substance in his body affects the ability of the employee to function efficiently. At the entry level of the substance the employee has shifted from the recreational use of the substances and now the substances are required by the employees to help them cope with their daily stress. The major effects of the abuse on the employee performance at this stage are seen by: increased tardiness and absenteeism, an increase in the rate of errors as a result of lack of attention and proper judgment and the increase in the number of unachieved deadlines at the workplace. At the second stage the employee develops a habit of using the substance in secret place so as to hide the increase in the intake from other workers. At this stage the employee develops the following problems lower quality of work notable by all people even the workmates, lower levels of concentration in the workplace, high rates of hospitalization leading to increased absenteeism and the employee is no longer dependable. At this point the co-workers can feel the effect of the substance abuse as the abuser becomes more irritable and begins to borrow money from workmates. At the third stage the employer begins to notice although the employer may not clearly see the relation between the poor work performance and the substance abuse. This stage is also characterized by the abuser disappearance from work and the refusal to discuss the issue of substance abuse with other people. At this stage the abuser no longer hides the use of the substance and he or she suffers from financial or legal issues. The last stage is when the abuser sees the work as an obstacle to his substance use and therefore he or she might accept drug test so as to be laid off or the abuser may just disappear from work (Elliot and Shelley, 2009). AMELIORATIVE ACTIONS According to the U. S Department of labor, the issue of workplace substance abuse is best dealt with by establishing all-inclusive programs so as to achieve a win-win situation to both the workers and the employers. Developing a workplace program to deal with substance abuse at the workplace can reduce the cost incurred by businesses and at the same time improve the health status of the workers (U. S Department of Labor). There is no accurate model that can be perfect for a specific company but the needs and the circumstances of the individual organization are what determine the kind of program to adopt in solving substance abuse in the workplace. Training education is another action that can be taken to counter substance abuse in organizations. The supervisors are trained to understand the policy governing the issues of substance abuse in the organization so that they are able to correctly identify those employees who are in the vice and then refer them to the appropriate people for assistance; say counselors. The employees also need to be educated about the substance abuse program adopted by the organization so that they learn of any assistance that is available to them from the organization. Depending on the size of the organization it may either adopt an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) within the organization or outsource the program to other organizations specialized in the area. Drug testing is another action that can be used to reduce cases of substance abuse in organizations. In this method the employees are tested for certain chemicals in their bodies and if the levels are too high then the employees are laid off from the organization depending with the formulated policies of the organization. The method is not feasible to many organizations because the drug test package is very expensive and drug testing is not allowed in all countries. Developing a strong discipline within the organization is a good option for those organizations that cannot afford the drug test (Patrick, 2009). In conclusion substance abuse has fatal effects on organizations both to the management and the employees. Substance abuse should therefore be eliminated in the workplace as it can lead to severe damages to the organization and at times it may also lead to the complete failure of an organization if the number of abusers is at a high level. Substance abuse not only affects the organization and the employee but it also affects the public as a whole. How to cite Discuss substance abuse on the job, Papers

Information System Service Design Space

Question: Discuss about the Report for Information System of Service Design Space. Answer: Introduction Over the past few decades, the explosive growth in the information and communication technologies has brought effective changes in the business management. It has transformed the way of business communication and management procedure. The cost of the communication and distribution channels has been reduced by implementing such information and communication technologies (Pantano 2014). Similarly, Zara, the international fashion retail company has been trying to expand the business to enhance the number of retail stores in America and Asia (Core.ac.uk 2016). The business expansion through the e-business implementation has set the higher standards of management operations. The research is based on such implementation procedure and the significance of e-business. The application of the diversified techniques will be discussed accordingly. The internet e-commerce is currently considered as the basis of the globalised businesses. The establishment of the electronic digital interference has been contributing the efficiency to the operational activities. The electronic signals in the virtual spaces are the most convenient way of communication with the internal and external world of business. The managers of the company can interact with the board members easily before undertaking any relevant decision. Brogi et al. (2013) opined that it is necessary to provide the employees proper training regarding the use of such information and communication technologies. It is beneficial enough in extending the knowledge of the managers as well as the employees. It is to be stated that the internet e-commerce system has been redefining the value chains of the industries and creating the dynamic competitive environment. Cagliano et al. (2014) pointed out that the internet e-commerce has replaced the intermediaries. Therefore, the manag ers can easily communicate with the business stakeholders and ensure their needs. However, the senior executives face several potential challenges in structuring the global economies. It has been seen that, the economic infrastructure could face the changes due to the development of the digital marketing (Soto-Acosta, Popa and Palacios-Marqus 2015). Therefore, it is necessary for the management of the business to cope with such changes by adopting different strategies. E-commerce has been providing a number of opportunities to the business management in this current era. Simultaneously, the management executives are also exploiting such opportunities to bring the improvisation in the operational management process. E-business is introducing the cost-effective marketing procedure. Garca-lvarez (2015) indicated that e-business allows the management to utilize more than one marketing tactics. It includes social media networking, e-mail marketing, e-newsletter, ad article marketing procedure. It even provides the flexible business hours to the associated employees. The management has found that e-business is eliminating barriers related to the business locations. The availability of the 24*7 hours internet facilities are generating the business profits in a significant manner. The online business is even reducing the cost per transaction. In fact, it does not require the manpower to complete the business activities (Crandall, Crandall and Chen 2014). Apart from these facilities, the management has explored many other opportunities. Zara has been concentrating on expanding the business in America and Asian countries. Sometimes, the geographical barriers become the challenge for selling the products. The implementation of the e-business has eliminated such obstacles. If the internet connection is available, the business can sell the products anytime anywhere. In fact, there are the opportunities to reduce the costs of many segments. The e-business facilities cut down the charges of the physical locations (Vu 2013). The customers can place their orders through online sources. Hence, the company would not require any particular sales person. The fast online transaction is even reducing the barriers related to the payment. Another most recognisable opportunity of establishing e-business is the customers can share their experiences through the online pages. In such cases, the management does not require to arrange the promotional event s to receive the feedbacks. The management can even interact with the internal executives through the digital communication system. Design, development, and implementation of e-business The implementation of the e-commerce business is not an easier process. The design needs to maintain the proper structure at the initial stage. The senior management has to take the responsibility while structuring the design of the system (Ross 2016). Zara has the strong reputation in all over UK. However, the company requires expanding the business in America and Asia. In analysing the managerial perspectives, it is required to structure the e-commerce sites in a specific way. While designing the e-business sites, the senior management needs to take the responsibility. It is required to have a particular vision, which is important for informing others about the requirement. In considering the first step for designing the e-commerce, the management needs to build the design team. It is to be noted that the development of the e-business involves the issues, which are needed to be addressed systematically. Various aspects are associated with the design and development process of e-business. For instance, leadership, deconstruction, cross functional integration, reconstruction, resources, and partnership are needed to be considered (Weske 2012). Architecture: The products associated with back office and the ordering systems are needed to be provided in a secure way. This information should be on demand to authorised phones. Platforms: The ERP products and existing modules are communicated with the help of GPRS system. Infrastructure: The internet is the backbone of such e-business. The micro computer hosting SAP and public mobile networks are also useful for formulating the infrastructure. In considering the implementation process of the e-business, it is important to focus on the first two columns of the architecture field. The recognition of the infrastructure and the platforms is necessary before evaluating any implementation decision. However, it is seen that the elements associated with the infrastructure and platform are evolved with several recognisable risks (Alter 2013). The association of the technologies is always challenging during the implementation process. The mismanagement of any of these technologies can hamper the entire system. In such cases, the manager needs to integrate different organisational functions for undertaking the e-business initiatives. The e-business plan includes the internal and external resources. These resources are skills, finance, knowledge, leadership, capabilities, technology, management, and time (Crandall, Crandall and Chen 2014). However, the implementation process includes some set of choices. These are as follows: 1) Customer Blueprint: This blueprint specifies the major needs and requirements of the customers. Accordingly, the associated risks and the issues can also be identified. 2) Development Blueprint: The development blueprint helps in designing the relevant framework for the projects of the enterprise. It helps in understanding the proper sequential process of the projects (Hamar, et al. 2015). This blueprint suggests the application of the proper methods and the interaction with the senior management. 3) Integration Blueprint: This is the process of reviewing portfolio that is structured for the active projects. Responsibilities of Managers It is to be indicated that the structured designing f the e-business has brought success to Zara in the business expansion project. Breaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Sols, Casadesusà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Masanell and Grifellà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Tatj (2015) mentioned that the structural design and implementation of the strategic e-business is the key to improvise and reform the competitive advantage. However, the design and the implementation process sometimes create the hazardous situations for the managers. The managers need to address several considerations before implementing the e-business strategies. 1) Before implementing the plan, the managers need to ensure that the plans include the flexible blueprints. In terms of accommodating the changes to the business environment and technological development, the rigid processes are needed to be eliminated (Landaeta Olivo et al. 2016). 2) The managers need to concentrate on controlling and managing risks. These risks are usually associated with the technology based features, financial development, operational performance, and the security issues. 3) It is much important to select a leader who can help in extending the wider network to derive more resources in time of need. 4) The managers need to ensure the sufficient resources are available during the right time of need. 5) It is required to build interoperability across the functional areas, which usually create the significant value for the business purposes (Serra and Kunc 2015). Apart from this, creating the new values is also essential. 6) The employment should be based on the proper job role, which is determined as per the satisfaction level of the business objectives. 7) Each of the business processes including the technicalities and other segments are needed to be updated properly (Tahir, Waggett and Hoffman 2013). 8) The professional outsourcing management practices are required to develop the projects that are conducted by the third party. This set of responsibilities of the managers sometimes can be too much challenging for the associated managers. However, the implementation of such development process can surely bring success to the company, especially, in terms of expanding business. e-Procurement The e-business helps the company to grow in the competitive market and strengthen the organisational reputation. E-Procurement is one of the significant processes to identify the changing demands of the customers. Soto-Acosta, Popa and Palacios-Marqus (2015) stated that e-procurement helps the company to utilize the internet network for procuring both the indirect and direct materials. Apart from these materials, it ensures the involvement of the value added services, such as documentations, quality validation, warehousing, and customer clearing. e-Marketing E-marketing is an extensive area of the e-business. With the help of e-marketing procedure, the company connects with the customers worldwide. Zara is expanding the business in America and Asia. Including the UK customers, the company can get connected to the Asian and American customers with the help of the e-marketing process (Ccsenet.org 2016). Moreover, in this current world, people are much fond of the online shopping and communication though online mediums (Leih, Linden and Teece 2014). In such cases, e-marketing is the significant procedure of benefitting the companys profitability. e-SCM In this current world, the supply change management is also improvised by the skilful process of e-business. According to Meggs, Greer and Collins (2012), SCM is the skilful process, which determines that integration unit of the organisation along with the coordinating materials for supply chain. It helps in understanding the customers demands and calculates the financial flows for the expenditures. The aim of creating the proper e-SCM is to improvise the competitiveness of the supply chain management. e-CRM E-CRM is the process of building the skilful relationship with the customers through the online sites. It has been found that majority of the customers search for the informative sources online before purchasing any product. Hence, it is important to understand the basic needs and the demands of the customers (MaliĆ¡, Makitan and Petrov 2016). If the executives of the company can fulfil the queries of the customers, it would be effective enough in building the skilful relationship. Moreover, it brings the reliability and trust for the future dealings. E- Business Strategy and its impact With the advancement of information technology and development of numerous web pages, electronic business has become one of the convenient, effective and fastest strategies for both consumers and organizations. It has a significant impact on the business operations with respect to promotion of products, trading of products having considerations for processes, government and people (Hamar et al. 2015). In this view, management of Zara has also planned and implemented e- business strategy for expanding its business, spreading awareness to people and building strong customer relationship. As the company is focusing to expand its business mainly in Asian and American countries because the society of these countries is educated and tech savvy. Additionally, the economic condition and financial position of Asian and American countries are strong so the company will be able to maximize its profits through the expansion of its business through online process. Benefits and problems of the implemented E- Business Internet is though imperative for the entire fashion industry that makes the brand more reachable and to more consumers. For Zara, the strategy on electronic business helps it to arrange the internet channels that are authenticated as a source to expand revenues and profits as well as strengthen the customer base. Management of Zara has implemented the strategy to provide latest designs of the outfits images with innovative dynamic technologies to create a benchmark for the standards and excusive designs of the products (Breaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Sols, Casadesusà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Masanell and Grifellà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Tatj 2015). However, there are certain benefits and limitations that Zara faces on implementing the e-business strategy. Competitive advantage Globalization Competitive advantage is one of the significant benefits that the company enjoys on implementation of e- business strategy. Internet is a medium through which one can reach to people anywhere and at anytime (Landaeta Olivo et al. 2016). Therefore, e- business strategy helps Zara to reach maximum people worldwide to make them aware about their latest fashion trends, exclusive designer outfits, sales promotions, offers and information on store locations. The company has also provided the facility for online shopping to maximize its customer base and revenue generation. Costs Risks Electronic business like any other strategy comes with cost and risk factor. As the companys purpose is to expand its business Asian and American countries, the cost structure of e- business is low but the risk is higher. Investment cost, inventory cost, cost to acquire several outlets other maintenance cost, duties, and taxes are savings on part of companys expenses. On implementing the e business strategy the company has managed to save around thirty percent of its total costs (Rita and Krapfel 2015). However, the company is facing certain risks on e-business strategy with respect to business, information and technology risks. Electronic advertisements sometimes lead to defamatory statements, violation of laws of home countries or even copying the designs or any other information not meant to be leaked. Accuracy Accuracy is another risk in e- business strategy in context to several issues that affect both customers and company. Technological error may reflect difference in number of stock of products actually available by Zara and the number showing on the web pages to the consumers. Apart from that, the management often faced errors in processing of transactions for online sale of certain outfits to the customers (Molenaar 2013). Even though the Asian and American countries are technologically advanced, internet disturbance, or software issue might occur anywhere at any time. Further, it is also important to keep updating the web pages with the right information and details so that consumers do not get any untrue messages. Therefore, the management of Zara is taking efforts on continuous updates and error free online services to the present and prospect consumers. Reliability security E- Business is a critical strategy that has to provide reliable and secured services to the organizations as well as to the consumers. Through e- business, physical interaction between consumers and company management becomes impossible hence, it is very difficult to understand the customers choice and reviews. It is also difficult to maintain secured operations through electronic business whether it is promotion of products or processing of transactions (Serra and Kunc 2015). Advancement of technology also created many unauthenticated accounts as a part of hackers. Hence, to identify the authenticity of consumers identity before dealing with them is a significant limitation of electronic business. Along with that, processing of transfer of payments is also under serious limitations company has to face as the payment is made through credit cards, net banking or debit cards. So it is very important for the management of Zara to authenticate the payment mode before accepting any orders from the consumers. E-Business Change Management and Optimization It is much necessary to eliminate the functional errors. The management of Zara needs to concentrate on the development and optimization process. E-business involves the electronic communicational process, which enhances the diversified aspects of supply chain management (Petrovic, Milanovic and Kalinic 2012). The optimization of the organisations value chain is also associated with such e-business process. The e-business change management is focusing on the achievement of the significant performance improvements. Installing new system is the part of the change management in e-business (Harrigan, Ramsey and Ibbotson 2012). The effective leadership skills are thus required to understand the requirements of change management. The management of Zara needs to interact with the executives and the other people associated with the e-business process about certain changes. The optimization of the process would thus be considering the successive approach for establishing e-business. Conclusion The study has been focusing on the e-business management process undertaken by Zara. It is discussed that the emerging business market is much fascinated by the sophisticated trends. It is noted that the e-business has been a compelling enabler of e-CRM, e-SCM, and e-Procurement. The set of responsibilities ensured by the managers can sometimes bring the potential challenges. However, the recognition of the benefits and the demands of the customers is the most helpful way of developing a business. In fact, it can be stated that the continuous achievement of the customer satisfaction can bring the enormous success to Zara while the company has been expanding the business in other countries. The structured process of designing, development, and implementation is essentially required for the further business success. If judged from the managerial perspectives, it can be stated that the managers have to take the full responsibility of managing e-business. The maintenance of the set of re sponsibilities by the managers would be helpful in preventing the potential hazards. Zara can even improvise their business performance through the implementation of the new technologies. The customers would be connected to the company sites. It is noted that the evaluation of the e-business has been facilitating the establishment of the e-CRM process. The customers are much connected through social sites and other online sites. In case of the fashion industry like Zara, the customers are more fascinated about the style segments. The e-business of Zara has been providing the opportunities to select among the various ranges of products. However, the managers have to take the major responsibilities to communicate with other associates. The implementation of the information security is not an easier process. Hence, it is required to recognise the potential risks before implementing the technologies required for the e-business process. References Alter, S., 2013. Value blueprint and service design space for facilitating value creation. Breaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Sols, H., Casadesusà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Masanell, R. and Grifellà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Tatj, E., 2015. Business model evaluation: quantifying Walmart's sources of advantage.Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal,9(1), pp.12-33. Brogi, S., Calabrese, A., Campisi, D., Capece, G., Costa, R. and Di Pillo, F., 2013. The effects of online brand communities on brand equity in the luxury fashion industry.International Journal of Engineering Business Management,5. Cagliano, A.C., Mustafa, M.S., Rafele, C. and Zenezini, G., 2014,. Logistics Performance Measurement for Sustainability in the Fast Fashion Industry. InHICL (Hamburg International Conference of Logistics), Next Generation Supply Chains-Trends and Opportunities. Hamburg, epubli GmbH(pp. 113-135). Ccsenet.org. 2016. Internationalization Process of Fast Fashion Retailers: Evidence of HM and Zara [online] Available at: https://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ijbm/article/viewFile/43298/24889 [Accessed 8 Aug. 2016]. Core.ac.uk, 2016. Internationalisation of the Spanish fashion brand Zara [online] Available at: https://core.ac.uk/download/files/14/334655.pdf [Accessed 8 Aug. 2016]. Crandall, R.E., Crandall, W.R. and Chen, C.C., 2014.Principles of supply chain management. CRC Press. Garca-lvarez, M.T., 2015. Analysis of the effects of ICTs in knowledge management and innovation: The case of Zara Group.Computers in Human Behavior,51, pp.994-1002. Hamar, B., Coberley, C., Pope, J.E. and Rula, E.Y., 2015. Well-being improvement in a midsize employer: changes in well-being, productivity, health risk, and perceived employer support after implementation of a well-being improvement strategy.Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine,57(4), pp.367-373. Harrigan, P., Ramsey, E. and Ibbotson, P., 2012. Exploring and explaining SME marketing: investigating e-CRM using a mixed methods approach.Journal of Strategic Marketing,20(2), pp.127-163. Landaeta Olivo, J.F., Garca Guzmn, J., Colomo-Palacios, R. and Stantchev, V., 2016. IT Innovation Strategy: Managing the implementation communication and its generated knowledge through the use of an ICT Tool.Journal of Knowledge Management,20(3). Leih, S., Linden, G. and Teece, D., 2014. Business model innovation and organizational design: a dynamic capabilities perspective. MaliĆ¡, M., Makitan, V. and Petrov, I., 2016. Change control in project of web application development in e-commerce environment. Meggs, S.M., Greer, A. and Collins, S., 2012. Virtual reality in interior design education: Enhanced outcomes through constructivist engagement in Second Life.International Journal of Web-Based Learning and Teaching Technologies (IJWLTT),7(1), pp.19-35. Molenaar, C., 2013.E-Marketing: Applications of information technology and the internet within marketing. Routledge. Pantano, E., 2014. Innovation drivers in retail industry.International Journal of Information Management,34(3), pp.344-350. Petrovic, D.R., Milanovic, I. and Kalinic, Z., 2012. Supply Chain Architectures In An E-Environment.Economic horizons, January-April 2012, Volume 14, Number Faculty of Economics University of Kragujevac UDC 33 eISSN 2217-9232 www. ekfak. kg. ac. rs, p.39. Rita, P. and Krapfel, R., 2015. Collaboration and Competition in Buyer-Supplier Relations: The Role of Information in Supply Chain and e-Procurement Impacted Relationships. InAssessing the Different Roles of Marketing Theory and Practice in the Jaws of Economic Uncertainty(pp. 98-105). Springer International Publishing. Ross, D.F., 2016.Introduction to e-supply chain management: engaging technology to build market-winning business partnerships. CRC Press. Serra, C.E.M. and Kunc, M., 2015. Benefits Realisation Management and its influence on project success and on the execution of business strategies.International Journal of Project Management,33(1), pp.53-66. Soto-Acosta, P., Popa, S. and Palacios-Marqus, D., 2015. E-business, organizational innovation and firm performance in manufacturing SMEs: an empirical study in Spain.Technological and Economic Development of Economy, pp.1-20. Tahir, H., Waggett, C. and Hoffman, A., 2013. Antecedents Of Customer Satisfaction: An E-Crm Framework.Journal of Business and Behavior Sciences,25(2), p.112. Vu, K., 2013. Developing a business plan for a start up e-business. Weske, M., 2012. Business process management architectures. InBusiness Process Management(pp. 333-371). Springer Berlin Heidelberg.

William Shakespeare Essays (2075 words) - Kings Men,

William Shakespeare WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE William Shakespeare was a family man; he was a poet and a lasting literary figure. He is considered to be the most fascinating Elizabethan dramatist due to his writings and versatile life. Shakespeare's career has endured for centuries. He is one of the most studied authors of all time (Zender 22). Shakespeare did not attend a university, yet he created 144 poems and many plays, which are considered to be literary works of art. His writings in comedies and tragedies show his talent is unbounded. William Shakespear's popularity must have extended beyond his own expectations as it touches people even today (Zender 23). William Shakespeare was born in the year of 1564 and died in 1616. His education consisted mostly of Latin studies- learning to read, write, and speak the language fairly well and studying some of the classical historians and poets. A bond, dated November 28, 1582, was executed by two men of Stratford as a security to the bishop for the issue of a lic ense for marriage between Williams Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway of Stratford. One year later, a daughter named Susanna was born on May 26, 1583. On February 2,1585 twins were born Hamlet and Judith. Shakespeare's only son-died eleven years later (Groiler 1991). How Shakespeare spent the next eight years or so science 1585, until his name begins to appear in London Theater records, is not known. There are stories of stealing deer and getting into trouble with a local magistrate, of earning a living as a school master in the country, of going to London and gaining entry into the world of theater by minding horses of theater- goers. In the light of evidence, exploits of Shakespeare's life cannot be proved or dismissed. Shakespeare has often been viewed from the internal evidence of his writings. However, this method is unsatisfactory. One cannot conclude, for example from allusions to the law that Shakespeare was a lawyer, although he clearly was a writer who without difficulty could get whatever legal knowledge needed for the composition of his works. It is not clear how his career in the theater began; but from about 1594 onward, he was an important member of Lord Chamberlain's company of players, called the King's Men after the accession of King James I in 1603. The company had the best actor, Richard Burbage; they had the best theater, the Globe; and the best dramatist, Shakespeare. It is no wonder that the company prospered.Shakespeare became a full-time professional man of this own theatre, sharing in a cooperative enterprise and intimately concerned with the financial success of the plays he wrote (Groiler 1991). Shakespeare's will, made on March 25, 1616, is a long and detailed document. It included quite extensive properties to the male heirs of his elder daughter, Susanna. As an afterthought, Shakespeare bequeathed his second best bed to his wife, but no one can be certain what this notorious legacy means. The signature to the will was apparently in sh aky hands. Perhaps Shakespeare was already ill. He died on April 23, 1616. No name was inscribed on his gravestone. Within a few years a monument was erected. Its epitaph, written in Latin and inscribed immediately below the bust, attributes to Shakespeare the worldly wisdom of Nestor, the genius of Socrates, and the poetic art of Virgil (Groiler 1991). Shakespeare lived in a time when ideas and social structures established in the Middle Ages still influenced man's thoughts and behavior. Queen Elizabeth was a firm believer in divine power of the crown. She thought herself God's deputy on earth, lords and commoners had their dueplace in society under her, with responsibilities up through her to God and down to those of more humble rank. The order of things did not go unquestioned. Atheism was still considered a challenge to beliefs and way of life of a majority of Elizabethans, but the Christian faith was no longer the single religion, with expansion of the Anglican Church and the g rowing power of the Puritans. Commoners were becoming more literate and could read the scriptures for themselves. In philosophical inquiry, the question how became the impulse for advance, rather than traditional why of Aristotle (Davidow 42).

Data Back Up essays

Data Back Up essays In the article "IT Recovery Efforts Forge Ahead" by Eugene Grygo, the terrorist destruction that took place at the World Trade Center is talked about. Although this article is not about the many people who lost there lives or the retaliation the government will be taking in the future, it is about something that is just as significant. This article is about all the computers and databases with all there hard drives and information being destroyed to the amount that all the data inside will never be able to be recovered. Because of this, people are now thinking of newer and better ways to back up valuable computerized information. "Disaster recovery today is woefully inadequate". This quote by Jim Johnson (Chairman of the Standish Group, West Yarmouth) was proven in its entirety in the World Trade Center Attack. This is so because the thousands of computers and databases which were destroyed had lots of valuable and essential information on them. The information such as stock market numbers, lotus notes, client documents, e-mails, and other data intrusive information will never be recovered. Because of this, computer scientists and engineers are starting to think of new ways to back up and store information. One possible solution to their problem was using the ever-extraordinary Internet to backup important data. This, if you think about it, would be a great way to back-up information. This is so because the Internet is an extra large database. Currently, it can hold an inordinate amount of information, and since it only started about 20 years ago, it is safe to say that it will be getting larger. For example , when IP v. 5 comes out, the Internet will become 4 times bigger than it is now. Not only will the Internet be large enough, but it will also be simple enough to backup information on it. This is so because it includes ways to upload and download information to it. As a result of this, information would be able to be saved and re...

Emerald Energy Plc Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Emerald Energy Plc - Case Study Example The revenue earnings of Emerald Energy have shown a sharp increase during the year 2008 as compared to the previous year. The increase is significant to the extent of 94% over the sales revenue for the year 2008. The change in the sales revenue during the year 2007 as compared with 2006 is showing a decline of 3.38% over 2006 figures. This trend is depicted in the following graph. The ability of a firm to generate profits can be assessed by working out the profitability ratios for a historical period and by analyzing the sources of income. The gross profit margin, operating profit margin and net income as a percentage of total turnover presents a realistic view of the firm's ability to generate profits. "Profitability ratios offer several different measures of the success of the firm at generating profits." (NetMBA, 2007) The ratios worked out for the Company and the ratio derived for the industry from the published sources are presented below: The above table indicates that the profitability o... The gross margin has increased mainly because of the increase in the sales revenue due to higher prices of petroleum products during early 2008. The increase in gross margin can be traced to the lower cost of sales. The cost of sales for the year 2008 was 29.25% as against 69.92% for the year 2007. This accounts for the steep increase in the gross margin as well as the increase in the operating and net margins. The increase in the profitability can be observed from the following graph. Return on Shareholder's Equity (ROE) The return on shareholder's equity ratio is another important investment valuation ratio used by the investors to evaluate the profitability of the company and its ability to generate earnings by utilizing the capital invested by the equity shareholders. This ratio is considered as more meaningful to the investors. The return on shareholder's equity has increased significantly over the three year period. Presently as per the latest financial information available on the company, the return on shareholder's equity ratio is stated as 28.45% while the ratio for the industry stands at 17.53 (Reuters, 2009). Analysis of Operating Efficiency The working Capital ratios indicate how well the company is able to manage its working capital. "The asset management ratios are also known as working capital ratios or the efficiency ratios. The aim is to measure how effectively the firm is managing its assets." (NetTom, n.d.) The efficiency ratios for Emerald Energy are exhibited below: 2006 2007 2008 Industry Receivables Turnover (Times) 12.06 9.41 5.76 12.26 Total Assets Turnover

The impact of changes in political leadership on the foreign policies Essay

The impact of changes in political leadership on the foreign policies of the People's Republic of China - Essay Example This study will begin with the statement that China is one of the most rapidly developing countries in the world. Many people believe that China may become a superpower in near future itself and the supremacy of America in global political and economic matters will be ended shortly. Even though communism is prevailing in China for the last few decades, it doesn’t mean that China’s internal and external policies undergone no changes. Some of the communist leaders in the past were adamant in implementing communist policies whereas modern political leaderships seems to be adopting more liberal approaches in implementing communist policies in China. Deng Xiao Ping is considered as the father of modern China. Even though Mao was one of the most charismatic leaders of China, his economic and political policies were strictly in line with communist principles. He never tried to dilute communist principles even for the betterment of China. However, the leadership followed by Mao was not so, especially Deng Xiao Ping. Deng succeeded in putting strong bases to China’s economic growth without sacrificing many of the communist principles. The leaders succeeded by Deng were also followed the same path of Deng and currently China is one of the most prosperous countries in the world. Interpreting China’s foreign policy is an important key to understand the tides of global affairs in 1990’s, not only because China, with the world’s largest population wields demographic and economic clouts, but also it arguably the most dynamic country in the second half of twentieth century. (Zhao, 1996, p.4). As a key player in global economic and political spectrum at present, China’s foreign policies are studied with curiosity by political analysts. This paper analyses the impact of changes in political leadership on the foreign policies of the People's Republic of China. Political leadership and China’s foreign policies Sun Yat Sen era Sun Yat Sen is often referred as the father of China. He assumed power immediately after the destruction of Qing dynasty, but forced to resign in 1912 because of his differences with the Nationalist party and the government. But he was successful assuming power again in 1923. He was a visionary leader who worked hard for China’s economic progress. â€Å"Sun summarized his policies in the Three Principles of the People--nationalism, democracy, and socialism† (Chinese Cultural Studies). He was a great admirer of Soviet Union and was keen in keeping stronger ties with Soviet Union. He tried hard to implant a Soviet model of economic growth in China. He was a liberal leader and was not much adamant in implementing communist principles. In fact he had respect towards democracy. After the death of Sun Yat Sen in 1925, Chiang Kai Shek assumed power and continued the good work of Sun Yat Sen. Chiang Kai Shek Era Chiang Kai Shek was the leader of China till the Chinese Cultura l Revolution in 1949.he was successful in keeping China away from the two World Wars. He was keen in keeping good relations with Western countries such as America and Britain. He was a strong critic of communism and did everything possible to avoid the growth of communism in Chinese soil. However, October revolution in 1949, forced Chiang Kai Shek to accept defeat and hand over the power to communist leader Mao Zedong. Mao era Even though, Mao was responsible for the Cultural Revolution in China, his contributions to China’s economic progress were limited. He was a leader who strictly followed communist principles in all internal and external matters. â€Å"Mao followed an aggressive foreign policy towards China’s neighboring countries† (Hongyi, 2010, p.17). It should be noted that China attacked India during Mao era. At sunrise on October 20, 1962, China's People's Liberation Army invaded India with overwhelming force on two separate flanks - in the west in Lad akh, and in the east across the McMahon Line in the then North-East Frontier Agency. The

Chicano film Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Chicano film - Essay Example Besides, the film Maria Full of Grace by Joshua Marston, an American film director deals with the cruelties of Columbian mafia. Thesis statement: Evaluation of the films- The Official Story, Like Water for Chocolate and Maria Full of Grace to unearth the socio-political influence on individual freedom. When one consider the purpose of a film, the mindset of the director towards his/her society gains due importance. In the film The Official Story by Luis Puenzo, the aim/purpose of the director is to unveil the crimes committed by despotic military regime in Argentina. Alberto Elana and Maria Diaz Lopez quote Jorge Abel Martin to illustrate the film’s importance as it portrays human life like a huge mirror which is capable to reflect thousands of faces in it (Elana and Lopez 182). The director’s aim is to force the viewers to identify their own emotions with that of the female characters in the film. The return of democratic system in 1983 opened a new phase of freedom to writers and directors in Argentina. The directors began to use cinema as a medium to express their views on the issues when Argentina was under military rule. So, the purpose of this film is to create awareness among mass about the recent history of Argentina. But on the other side, the purpose/ aim of the director of the film Like Water for Chocolate is to attract the attention of the viewers towards the inevitable change in the Mexican society and its attitude towards womenfolk. For instance, the female character Tita de la Garza is forced to stay unmarried due to the tradition of de la Garza family which does not allow the youngest daughter to lead a married life. Instead, Tita is forced to stay at her home and to take care of her family. This inhuman attitude supported by the tradition crush her love affair with Pedro. So, one can easily identify that the purpose of the film Like Water for

Strategic Moves to Company Success

Strategic Moves to Company Success Introduction E-commerce had brought much change in way business. It is enabled businesses to connect with each other in new way of thinking in every area on commerce. The turnover from usual business to e-commerce has anticipated exceeding far then expected by spectator. Many companies nowadays using e-commerce had been successfully gained more profit in their business such as amazon.com, e-Bay and mudah.com. These companies have their own features that show them as the highly rated successful companies. Most of these companies also have good strategies in planning their business that enables them to success. The Successful Companies through E-Commerce Amazon and E-bay is among company which allowed transaction electronically. There are the precursor in e-commerce that successfully success until today. Nowadays there are 5 most successful company using e-commerce, Amazon, Dell, Staples, Office Depot and Hewlett Packard. Amazon.com (1994) is one of the most famous e-commerce companies and founded by Jeff Bezos. Today, Amazon offers everything from books and electronics to tennis rackets and diamond jewelry. According to the research conducted, Amazon.com attracted about over 615 million customers every year. The ability of online friendly website by Amazon is one of the key of success for this company. Another company that been successfully in e-commerce is Dell Inc. Dell.com has made rapid strides, the company has achieved big profit in online sales. The companys effective strategy of selling products without retail has been admired by customers and many e-commerce dealers imitate their strategy. As same as Amazon, Dell success key factor is online friendly website. Most of successful companies achieve success by having their own characteristics and features that led them. Effective strategies also the key factor the companys success achievement. Features of Successful E-Commerce Company Many companies use e-commerce as one of the ways to gain profit. For each successful company, they have various features that help them in e-commerce business. The first feature is a clear vision and goal. The company must know exactly what they want to achieve in this business. Second feature is dare taking calculated risk. The key to success is daring to take necessary risk and considered investment as fuel of business in e-commerce. Next is, successful sites employ good advisors. By having advisor that can be trusted is essential. It is because company only can gain if having panels of experts that can advise in regulating strategy, tactic and expand the business. Another feature is successful sites can embrace technology and change. Keeping abreast of developments online is the key in online marketing, change in online way and understand way to read web analysis. The fifth feature is patience and a long-term view. The company constantly measure if they are gradually getting to their goal. More features are a commitment to and continuous improvement. The success company knew what they should do and always make improvement. Lastly is, success company must believe that there is no short cuts to make profit. There is some e-business people want to gain million of profit but hoping it come by doing nothing. Success company knew that is wrong. By keep focusing, hard work, constant improvement and commitment there are the real way to success in e-commerce business. Strategic Moves That Led Companies to Success? Fine method and strategy can lead companies to success. They are several ways that has been listed as strategic moves to led companies to success. First is Well-Positioned Online Brand. The companies must choose the market able brand name for their website. A brand name will draw customers to the companys website and can help assure customers about the quality of the offering, the accuracy of the information, can promote customer loyalty and the security of the web transactions. Second, Online-Friendly Offerings. It is about the selection and diversity of the company product. The companies must decide what products to offer on the website. Another diversity is offering customers the ability to obtain unique product or information. The diversity are important because it allows customers to control the product choices and at the same time it can built customers loyalty. The third move is Reliable Customers Service. It is to inspiring loyalty among customers. For the company to success the customer must trust the company and its website. Trust can be built through assurance of privacy and transaction security and by providing accurate information. As examples, many people purchase at Amazon.com rather than other website because it can be trusted by customers. Lastly, Right Business Planning.It is to acquire funding, nonfinancial resources and to obtain a realistic approach to the business. Important Elements in Implementing the Strategy There are many elements that guide E-Commerce strategies to success. It is such as is to consider full integration, partial corporate integration, and business unit integration all has positive aspects as strategies for e-commerce and are viable choices. Another element is companies must carefully coordinate new online services to enhance and protect their brand. Next is, in implementing and formulating e-commerce strategy throughout company operations, it must include Multi-channel coordination as the key success factor. More elements are successful e-commerce strategy must include special attention to customer service as it is core component of company strategy. A proper balance the use of commoditized solutions and unique uses of e-commerce can help company utilize effectiveness. It is to gain competitive advantage in strategy. Conclusion As conclusion, e-commerce business helps a lot dealer to expand their business. Profit achieved continuing growing for companies those involve in this electronic transaction business. It as we can see in achievement Amazon.com, E-bay and Mudah.com. More proud, now found many traders begin using e-commerce as one of the ways promotes their goods. Most successful companies in e-commerce have steady features that been a key to their success. This including the strategy that been used such as good business plan, online friendly website, reliable customers services, commitment in managing business, make improvement in services. With the right strategies, many dealers can easily gain more profit and expand their business around the world.

Terrorism and Subcultural Theory of Crime :: essays research papers

The horror of domestic terrorism is a problem all Americans should be concerned with, especially since there is a violent subculture in this nation which seeks out and indoctrinates people into their way of life. The crime that I will be focusing on during the course of this paper will be domestic terrorism, specifically hate groups such as the KKK, and various other white supremacy groups. The theory that I will be using to try and explain these crimes will be subcultural theory, but more especially the Subculture of Violence theory provided to us by Marvin Wolfgang and Franco Ferracutti. The reason I will be using his specific subcultural theory is because I feel that it bests describes how the people in these situations are desensitized to the evils they do and then begin to believe that the acts and beliefs are normal, or superior to all other views.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The issue of domestic terrorism has been a fairly recent phenomenon. With little attention given until such acts as the Oklahoma City Bombing and the Unabomber made national headlines. It is because of this that there has been little research done on the area and most of the research there is focuses on the hate groups associated with the acts of violence. A strong force in the domestic terrorist movement is the fervent anti-government stance that these groups internalize. As Mark Hamm wrote in 1997, â€Å"I used the term apocalyptic violence to depict not only the astounding carnage witnessed on that day, but also to describe the anti-government counter-culture to which Timothy McVeigh and his accomplices belonged. In this statement he is referring to the assault on the Branch Davidian complex in Waco, TX. It is believed by many that this is the act which pushed McVeigh to bomb the federal building in Oklahoma City. Hamm went on further to argue, â€Å"The fede ral government had created an apocalyptic subculture in the hinterlands of the USA. And that it had done so through its ruthless use-of-force at Waco.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is the belief of these groups, most specifically the white supremacy groups that the government is corrupt and run by inferior people, anyone not Anglo-Saxon white, and the country needs to be cleansed. The issue of hate groups has been plaguing this country for many decades but only in recent years have they begun to organize to the tune of committing massive acts of violence and terror.

Little Miss Oversexualized

Little Miss Over Sexualized The way that media portrays children today is just plain disgusting. Not only is it inappropriate, it also severely damages the self-esteem of children all over the world. When companies like Vogue put out advertisements of children as young as 10 years old dressed in skimpy clothes, full make-up, and posed very provocatively what does that say to every day children? This is how you need to look to be â€Å"beautiful† or this is how they need to dress and act to be one of the â€Å"cool kids†?The media, whether it is television, magazines, or newspaper are causing huge problems to the self-esteem of children today, especially young girls by putting out advertisements that over sexualize them. Established in 1892 and begun printing advertisements in 1909 Vogue Magazine has been the authority on high class fashion for the past one hundred plus years. (History of 1)In January 2011 edition of French Vogue published a full 15 page spread featuring Thylane Loubry Blondeau a 10 year child model in full make-up, dressed in stimulating clothing, and posed very provocatively.Needless to say this caused a big controversy about over sexualizing children, not only in France but around the world. â€Å"In Britain, Labor Parliament Member Helen Goodman called the photos ‘disgraceful and totally irresponsible†¦Vogue has descended into the gutter by doing this’ (10-year-old 1). Although most of these ads are not aimed directly at small children and pre-teens, they are viewed by them and the effect it is having on them is devastating. Children are developing several different emotional, psychological and physical issues.These issues include but are not limited to: inability to relate to peers, eating disorders, depression and even promiscuity. In her article â€Å"Sex images in media harming kids' mental health† Janelle Miles, a long time journalist for the Australian news publication â€Å"The Courier-Mailâ₠¬  writes: â€Å"Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists president Louise Newman said ‘evidence was emerging that childhood exposure to developmentally inappropriate sexualized images and messages was associated with low self-esteem, depression and eating disorders’.Professor Newman said child psychiatrists were seeing an increasing number of younger children presenting with negative self-esteem and body image issues. Exposure to sexualizing messages contributes to girls defining their self-worth and popularity in terms of sexual attractiveness, with negative impact on self-esteem,’ Prof. Newman said. ‘Excessive focus on appearance and a narrow definition of attractiveness has been found to contribute to the development of abnormal eating behaviors and a lack of positive body image.What's particularly concerning is some primary school-aged children, and even preschoolers, are presenting with some of these concerns. ‘I've seen children as young as four telling me . . . they're ugly’. That's appalling. Children are very receptive and influenced by what's in the world around them† (Miles 1). Although children are being exposed to a barrage of over sexualized print ads, the media does not stop there. Over the last twenty years television shows and commercials have begun to over sexualize young children and teens at an alarming rate.In 1995 the â€Å"Parent Television Counsel was founded to ensure that children are not constantly assaulted by sex, violence and profanity on television and in other media. This national grassroots organization has more than 1. 3 million members across the United States, and works with television producers, broadcasters, networks and sponsors in an effort to stem the flow of harmful and negative messages targeted to children. The PTC also works with elected and appointed government officials to enforce broadcast decency standards.Most importantly, the PTC produces critical res earch and publications documenting the dramatic increase in sex, violence and profanity in entertainment† (PTC Study 1) Increasingly alarming are the Television shows such as â€Å"Toddlers in Tiaras† and â€Å"Little Miss Perfect† showing parents pushing children as young as 2 years old to compete in beauty pageants. The parents scream and yell at these young children and sometimes guilting them into participating in these pageants. These kids are put into frilly dresses, make-up caked on their little faces, and they are told â€Å"if they don’t win mommy will be disappointed. What kind of message does this send to children who are in the middle of developing their identity? Interestingly in December 2010 the PTC completed a study called â€Å"Tinsel town’s New Target: A study of Teen Female Sexualization on Primetime TV. The content of this report was based on the most popular prime time shows among 12-17 year olds during the 2009-2010 televisio n seasons. The following are some alarming facts produced from that report: Underage female characters are shown participating in a higher percentage of sexual depictions compared to adults (47% and 29% respectively).Only 5% of the underage female characters communicated any form of dislike for being sexualized (excluding scenes depicting healthy sexuality). Out of all the sexualized female characters depicted in the underage and young adult category for the entire database, 86% were presented as only being of high school age. Seventy-five percent of shows that included sexualized underage female characters were shows that did not have an â€Å"S† descriptor to warn parents about the sexual content.Based upon a definition established by the American Psychological Association of â€Å"healthy† vs. â€Å"unhealthy† sexuality, the study findings show that 93% of the sexual incidents involving underage female characters occurred within a context that qualified as â €Å"unhealthy. † The data revealed that 98% of the sexual incidents involving underage female characters occurred outside of any form of a committed relationship. The data show that 73% of the underage sexualized incidents were presented in a humorous manner or as a punch line to a joke. PTC Study 1) Tim Winters the President of the PTC said â€Å"The results from this report show Tinsel town’s eagerness to not only objectify and fetishize young girls, but to sexualize them in such a way that real teens are led to believe their sole value comes from their sexuality. This report is less about the shocking numbers that detail the sickness of early sexualization in our entertainment culture and more about the generation of young girls who are being told how society expects them to behave†( PTC Study1). Contrary to the belief in this country, children of today’s society are not stupid.It has long been said by many different expert that children’s brain s process and absorb information twice as fast as an adult. Benjamin Barber a renowned political scientist who earned his Ph. D. from Harvard University in 1966 writes in his 1993 article â€Å"America Skips School. †: â€Å"The young, with their keen noses for hypocrisy, are in fact adept readers-but not of books. They are society-smart rather than school-smart, and what they read so acutely are the social signals emanating from the world in which they will have to make a living.Their teachers in that world, the nation’s true pedagogues, are television, advertising, movies, politics, and the celebrity domains they define. We prattle about deficient schools and the gullible youngsters they turn out, so vulnerable to the siren song of drugs, but think nothing of letting the advertisers into the classroom to fashion what an Advertising Age essay calls ‘brand and product loyalties through classroom-centered, peer powered lifestyle patterning’†(116). In conclusion advertisements that over sexualize children are not going to stop.The government needs to listen to the hundreds of studies that have been completed to show that these advertisements have a huge psychological and sometimes physical impact on children, and they need to put a stop to it. Parents, start teaching your children that they do not have to be a super model to be a good person, just be themselves. Works Cited Barber, Benjamin R. â€Å"America Skips School. † Writing On The River. 3RD ed. Chattanooga: McGraw-Hill Companies, 2012. 116. Print. Graff, Amy. â€Å"10-year-old Fashion Model Sparks Debate | The Mommy Files | an SFGate. om Blog. † The Mommy Files | an SFGate. com Blog. SFGate, 9 Aug. 2011. Web. 06 Nov. 2012. â€Å"History of Vogue Magazine. † History of Vogue Magazine. Vouge Magazine, n. d. Web. 12 Nov. 2012. Miles, Janelle. â€Å"Sex Images in Media Harming Kids' Mental Health. † CourierMail. Couriermail. com. au, 17 Mar. 2010. Web. 06 Nov. 2012. â€Å"PTC Study: Sexualized Teen Girls Are Tinseltown's New Target. † PTC Study: Sexualized Teen Girls Are Tinseltown's New Target. Parent Television Council, 25 Dec. 2010. Web. 06 Nov. 2012. .

Globalization Between Rich and Poor Countries

Globalisation may be the concept of the 1990s, a key by which we understand the transition of human society in to the third millennium. My essay will be focusing on the economic side of it. I will be explaining the MNCs effect on the poor countries in respect to the rich countries ( of course intending developed countries and less developed countries), in order to do so I will first need to introduce the concept of economic development. We will find that the impact of MNCs on LDCs can be under many aspects crucial to the development of the latter, even though it is important to bare in mind the positive contribution MNCs can bring in to LDCs. However in order to cover all the points of this wide topic, it would have been necessary to look at not only the economic side that there is to it , but as well political, social and cultural sides, which are here only briefly referred to. The main concern of theorists of imperialism has been to explain why rich ( or capitalist ) states behave the way they do toward poor states. With the birth of dozens of new states in the years after the Second World War, interest was sparked on the other side of the imperialistic coin, so to speak. From the point of view of this new states, understanding why states behave imperialistically is only part of the problem. The other part focuses on the question of how best to deal with richer, larger states to achieve economic well-being and political independence. Answers to this questions, so far at least, have been much more numerous than examples of success in attaining these goals. The experience of Third World countries in the four decades since the Second World War has demolished one theory after the other concerning the most effective ways to speed development. In the 1950's, the United States dominated the world economically, and Americans likewise tended to dominate the discussion about economic development in academic circles as well as in international forums. Even Americans, of course, had a variety of ideas about how the emerging new countries could best achieve economic growth, but a few basic themes and assumptions were widely shared. One implicit assumption was that England, the United States and other industrialised Western countries served as historical model that the new countries should try to emulate in their efforts to develop politically and economically. This emulation meant, in the orthodox view, that the new countries should adopt free enterprise systems based individual initiative and democratic political systems. In general, development theories in the 1950s stressed the importance of internal changes in the new states as the crucial steps toward economic development. On the other point of view, the dependency theorists, do not deny that internal changes are necessary, but from their point of view, orthodox analysts seriously underestimate the extent to which the problems of Third World countries are caused by factors external to those countries and the impact of the international economic and political environment on them. â€Å"It fiddles its accounts. It avoids or evades its taxes. It rings its intra-company transfer prices. It is run by foreigners from decision centres thousands of miles away. It imports foreign labour practices. It doesn't import foreign labour practices. It overpays. It underpays. It competes unfairly with local firms. It is in cahoots with local firms. It exports jobs from rich countries. It is an instrument of rich countries' imperialism. The technologies it brings to the third world are old-fashioned. No, they are to modern. It meddles. It bribes. Nobody can control it. It wrecks balances of payments. It overturns economic policies. It plays off governments against each other to get the biggest investment incentives. Won't it come and invest? Let it bloody come home. (The Economist, January 21, 1976, p. 68) It of course refers to Multinational Corporations. One reason why developing countries turned to bank loans in the late 1970's involved their suspicion about foreign investments by multinational corporations (MNCs). MNCs provoke some of this suspicion because they so large. In fact, many of them, by some measures , are larger economic units then developing countries. As can be seen in Appendix 1, if we compare the GNPs of countries with the gross annual sale of MNC's, several of the largest economic units in the world are not states, but corporations. In these terms, General Motors is bigger than Argentina, and Exxon is larger than Algeria or Turkey. Another reason that MNCs in developing countries provoke suspicion is that comparisons of inflows and outflows of capital associated with their activities shows, years after year and place after place, that MNCs take more money out of developing countries then they put in to them. In addition, critics of MNCs point out that these companies do not bring much money in to developing countries in the first place. Instead, they borrow from local sources or reinvest profits that they have earned in foreign countries. â€Å"Over the 1966-1976 period, 4 percent of all net new invested funds of U. S. transnational corporations in the less developed countries where reinvested earnings, 50 percent were funds acquired locally, and only 1 percent funds newly transfered from the United States† (emphasis added). Defenders of MNCs concede that inflows from investments by corporations in developing countries are typically smaller than outflows of repatriated profits. But such comparisons are irrelevant or misleading. The fact that corporations took more money out of Country X in 1998 that they put into that country in that same year does not prove that Country X is being â€Å"decapitalised†, because what comes out from Country X in the form of repatriated profits in that year is not a function of funds going into the country during that time. Rather the profits of 1998 are the result of corporate investments in several preceding years. Such comparison also ignore the facts that once capital is invested in a country (even if it is borrowed from banks within that country), it forms the basis of a stock of capital, which can grow and produce more with each passing year. In other words, once a factory is set up, some of the profits every year will be sent to the MNC's home country, and it is quite possible that no money will be brought in. But part of the rest of the profits, year after year, will be paid in taxes, and the remainder will be used to expand production, hire new people, and pay more each year in salaries and wages. This argument certainly does not end the controversies surrounding MNCs. They also are blamed for balance-of-trade problems, for using inappropriate capital-intensive technology (in countries where labour is in surplus supply), and for encouraging the rich to indulge in conspicuous consumption of luxury products instead of investing in the productive capacity of their countries, while at the same time persuading the poor to drink Coca-Cola instead of milk. Perhaps the strongest argument that can be made in defence of MNCs point out that in the long run, they are destined to get caught in dilemmas from which there is no obvious escape. Take, for example, the focus by critics on the enormous profits that they repatriate. If MNCs respond to this criticism by bkeeping that money in the host countries and reinvesting it there, they are unlikely to boost their own popularity. Continuous reinvestment will eventually become very threatening in the host country as MNCs expand and take over larger shares of domestic markets. If MNCs avoid capital-intensive technology and turn to more labour intensive production techniques, critics complain that they are using poor countries as dumping ground for obsolete technology. In general, the longer a MNC stays in a developing country, the more reasons there will be for it to become unpopular. When they first arrive, they create jobs and face the risk of failure. But after they have become established, the risks are minimal, and they seem to be sitting there raking in enormous profits. If the MNC hires many local people for important positions of responsibility, this is likely to speed the day when the nationals feel they can run the subsidiary on their own, without the help of the MNC. If the MNC keeps citizens of the host country out of management positions, that may lead even more quickly to antagonism on the part of the host country, whose citizens will argue that MNC's employment policies are designed to keep them in a position of permanent subordination and dependence. That subsidiaries of MNCs in developing countries will become unpopular seems all but inevitable, but that unpopularity is not necessarily deserved. They may serve for engines of development even if they provoke antagonism and opposition. Many researchers have tried to determine the overall impact of MNCs in developing economies by statistically analysing the relationship between foreign investments and economic performance . Some have found that foreign investments in Third World countries retards economic growth; additional analyses reveal correlations between foreign investments and inequalities in the distribution of wealth. But the weight of contrary evidence is such that conclusions regarding these controversies must be even more than normally tentative . Albert Szymansky concludes that much of the empirical work reporting deleterious effects of foreign investment â€Å"in reality†¦ demonstrates nothing more than how easy it is to produce just about any conceivable results with multivariate computer analysis- if one is willing to throw in enough control variables and utilise enough different sets of countries† . Although this comment may be insensitive to many complex problems that can make simple, seemingly more straightforward analyses even more misleading, it does voice what seems to be an increasingly common opinion about the impact of MNC investment in developing countries: the nature of the impact depends on how the government of a given country deals with it. (And how is dealt with is not inevitably determined by the presence of the investment. ) In other words, MNC investments can have bad effects, but dealt with effectively, they also can bring substantial benefits. As Robert Gilpin concludes, MNCs are â€Å"neither as positive nor as negative in their impact on development as liberals or their critics suggests. Foreign direct investment can help or hinder, but the major determinants of economic development lie within LDCs (less-developed countries) themselves† . However, dependency theorists would disagree. Their basic argument is that foreign investment, or any other economic contact that poor countries have with the world's economic system, particularly with the rich, capitalist, industrialised countries, has almost uniformly disastrous effects on the economic and political fortunes of those countries.