Economic Development and Culture Essay

According to Easterly (2001), attempted remedies to underdevelopment (like loans, FDI, population control) are generally determined by non-economic factors such as demographic variables, cultural characteristics, and political systems. In the following paragraph, Easterly demonstrated the devastating implication of a single path to economic development in many Third World countries. Now, the assumptions of both classical economists and political economists are under attack. There is one element that both these theories ignored: culture. Sociologists and cultural anthropologists often argued that there is no single path to economic development when culture is taken into consideration. Market institutions and free trade instruments have usually low adoption rates in many underdeveloped countries (Easterly, 2001). The reason is not obvious. Traditional methods of production and exchange often obscure economic principles. These traditional methods of production and exchange constituted a significant part of culture. For example, in the 1950s, the so-called ‘trickle down approach’ became popular in the West. The idea is simple. The adoption of technology flows smoothly from the capitalist class to low income agricultural families (Easterly, 2001). Translated into income, the rate by which the capitalist class accumulates wealth is correlated with the rate by which low income agricultural families accumulates capital. In short, the approach benefits all individuals who adopt prescribed technologies (since these technologies increase production and improve efficiency). Such approach was enthusiastically received by Third World countries in the 1950s and 1960s (Easterly, 2001). However, after two decades of trial, it was clear that it failed to produce the desired results. Farmers did not adopt the prescribed technologies, as what the proponents of the approach expected. Several studies were conducted to determine cause of the failure. Culture was seen as the ‘culprit’ variable in those studies. Third World farmers failed to adopt prescribed technologies because: 1) such technologies were antithetical to traditional beliefs and farming practices, and 2) culture did not permit them to use such technologies. These results generally struck down the traditional economic approach to development. Economic principles are not the sole determinants of economic development. Easterly (2001) summarized the role of culture in economic development. His main propositions are as follows: 1) Many economic policies failed because it never incorporated elements of cultural life. Such can be said of the ‘trickle-down approach’ used by many Third World countries in the 1950s and 1960s; 2) Culture decides which and how economic policies should be undertaken. For example, an economic policy that fosters information liberalization in an Islamic country is doomed to failure. An economic policy should be socially accepted; 3) Culture provides an avenue for feedback for implemented economic policies. Culture is itself a collective entity that dictates which economic policies are sustainable in the long-run. Acceptance is not the issue, rather the long-term utility to the society; 4) Culture provides individuals, groups, and institutions the necessary moral information of specific policies. When viewed from the social exchange theory, it is these moral information that enable individuals and groups to rationally weigh the benefits and costs of particular economic policies. In the book Culture Matters, Patterson’s essay successfully showed that economic models failed to explain the persistent social and behavioral chaos that defines inner urban life (Culture Matters, 494). Patterson argued that economic models only explained the tangible elements of economic life; that is, economic models only touched issues like income, consumption, savings, and investment (Culture Matters, 495-98). When those economic models were used to explain behavioral differences across individuals, groups, and classes, they ended in self-insufficiency. However, Patterson’s essay revealed another striking fact. Cultural differences, behavioral outlook on wealth, and socio-religious beliefs were seen as determinants of income, investment, and savings. Groups that have a positive outlook on wealth and investment have tendencies to adopt capitalist principles. Groups which adhere to conservative religious beliefs tend to view capitalist principles as ‘unChristian. ’ In short, cultural differences determine economic development. To restrict economic development to the twin principles of free trade and non-government intervention is misleading. If a country wanted to experience economic development, it must take into consideration non-economic variables. Political culture, ideology, socio-religious beliefs, and systems of exchange are some of the non-economic variables that influence economic decision-making patterns. Works Cited Culture Matters. Ed. By Lawrence Harrison and Samuel Huntington. New York: New York Basic Books, 2000. Easterly, William. The Elusive Quest for Growth : Economists’ Adventures and Misadventures in the Tropics. MIT: The MIT Press, 2001.

Marketing Management – Toyota

Toyota Motors Marketing Plan for Hybrid Vehicles by geographic location (Europe) 1. 0 Executive Summary The Toyota Motor Company continues to strive to be the global market leader in the automobile manufacturing industry. Over the years, Toyota has managed to remain the leader of this industry through its management structure, fuel efficient vehicle design and competitive pricing based on global market knowledge. Toyota has realized that environmentally conscious products were needed to ensure continued company (and sales) growth in the future.Toyota has been actively reducing its carbon footprint since 1998. Annually, Toyota has been publishing its Environmental and Social Sustainability report in order to enhance disclosure of information regarding environmental actions carried out in conjunction with its corporate activities. Through more efficient and â€Å"cleaner† production lines it has reduced its environmental impact. Toyota also seeks to be the market leader for so c alled â€Å"clean (or green) vehicles† such as Electric Vehicles, Hybrid Vehicles and Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles.This marketing plan will discuss Toyota's strategy with regards to green vehicles, with particular reference to one geographical location, Europe. This Marketing plan will have a closer look at how the European Branch operates within Toyota's global structure and how it reflects Toyota's overall vision of a cleaner, more sustainable future. 1. 1 Vision Toyota realizes that its future lies in the production of environmentally conscious cars. Toyota's vision of a cleaner future revolves around two main points. Firstly, the production of vehicles that have a smaller impact on the environment.Along with â€Å"cleaner† versions of its gasoline powered cars, Toyota believes that the company's success in the present and future lies in its line of Electric, Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles. Through this line of vehicles Toyota will be actively reducing environmental impact by producing cleaner cars for consumers to use. Secondly, Toyota believes that to achieve its goals towards a cleaner future, it must continuously strive to make its production lines even cleaner. In fact, since 2002 Toyota has managed to reduce the energy used or the production of vehicles by 40%, waste products by 50% and water consumption by 70% (Toyota Motors Europe: Sustainability Report 2011). Both of the above points fall under a global philosophy called â€Å"The Toyota Way†. As analysed by Liker (Liker J. , 2004) this holistic philosophy maintains fourteen key principles which Toyota has adopted to give its customers what they want, when they want it, in the most efficient way possible whilst leaving the smallest possible carbon footprint. Toyota also believes that continual growth can be achieved by exceeding its customers' expectations.In fact the Toyota Global website(2012) states â€Å"our attitude is to anticipate and deliver to the needs of those we ser ve† 1. 2 Objectives Toyota's main objectives are stated clearly in its Sustainability Report (2011). The said report outlines a global vision, to be attained by the year 2020. Toyota's new Global Vision 2020 comprises of three main pillars: * Lead the way to the future of mobility, which is our core business. * Commit to quality, innovation, environmental protection and by doing so, make cars that people love. Engage our people's energy and passion to â€Å"Always Find a Better Way† (Toyota Motors Europe: Sustainability Report 2011) 2. 0 Current Market Summary Traditionally, Toyota's primarily focused on the US and Japanese markets. The European market is a fairly new addition to Toyota's Sales portfolio. Although the European market for cars has seen a steady decline in recent years, Toyota currently holds a 4. 2% share of the total car market. In 2011 total sales in Europe amounted to 822,386, 10% of which were Hybrid vehicles. 2. 1 Market NeedsThrough Customer Relati onship Management and market research, Toyota has established a new set of characteristics it's vehicles need to satisfy in order to reach the Global Vision 2020. Toyota has determined it's cars need to be: * Of high quality and reliability thus requiring infrequent maintenance. * Widely affordable, including increased affordability of Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. * Silent in a world which is increasingly aware of noise pollution. * Easy to use, with particular reference to simplified user interfacing on new Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid vehicles * Clean.Even if in a traditional gasoline engine model emissions need to be kept to an absolute minimum. Whilst identifying the need for â€Å"cleaner† cars, Toyota has also launched the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) demo project in 18 European countries. This project involves a limited production line of 200 PHEV vehicles which are being road tested by customers in 18 European countries till 2013. So far the project has already increased awareness of PHEV cars and provided crucial data with regards to technical performance and customer satisfaction.This data will be used in the near future to launch a large scale PHEV production line. Toyota realises the importance of its customers time. The increasing use of the internet, especially in the early stages of a purchase, has made the company's website an important asset. Therefore an updated website will all models, colours, specifications and options is of vital importance. 2. 2 Market Growth Despite the afore mentioned drop in car sales in Europe, Toyota has managed to sustain a positive growth within this market. Toyota aims to increase its European market share from 4. % to 4. 5% ( 835,000 vehicles sold) in 2012. In 2011 its Hybrid sales amounted to 10% of the total sales figure. Toyota seeks to increase this to 14% in 2012 and up to as much as 20% in 2013/14 (Reuters: 5th March 2012). To do so, Toyota has re-designed some of its more popular mode ls (Yaris and Auris) and has offered them in both traditional gasoline engines and Hybrid configuration. To further maximise growth in the Hybrid and Plug-In sector, many of Toyota's European distributors have started offering very advantageous finance schemes on these models.This means that a customer no longer needs to go through the bank to purchase a new car. 2. 3 Market Segmentations Toyota's European Market is vastly diverse and requires heavy segmentation. Each market segment requires separate market research, a separate marketing strategy and a separate product offering all together. When segmenting the European market one has to take the following considerations: * Age of the target consumer * Social Standing * Occupation and thus purchasing power * Educational background * Other cultural and socio-economic factorsFor the purposes of this plan we shall conduct a socio-demographic segmentation. Market segments may include : * Young ,trendy people who opt for small, inexpensi ve, cheap to run vehicles. this segment is also very environmentally conscious. * Young adults with higher spending power who opt for small saloon, small SUV's/mini-vans and 4Ãâ€"4 vehicles. This segment is also very environmentally conscious but less so than the young trendy people * Middle aged adults who are better off and can afford higher end vehicles such as large saloons and high end 4Ãâ€"4 vehicles.This segment is less environmentally conscious and therefore less likely to invest in a Hybrid or PHEW vehicle unless these become trendy to own. * Mature adults who are about to retire or have retired from work. This segment looking for comfort and practicality while still maintaining style. Depending on their occupation and ability to save(throughout their career), their spending power will vary. This segment is the least environmentally conscious. Other market segments include small, medium and large business organisations for which Toyota has developed a range of trucks and vans of various sizes and payload capacity. . 4 SWOT Analysis Strengths * Toyota has firmly placed itself as one of the leading car manufacturers in the world and is also steadily gaining ground in Europe. Toyota's reputation for quality and reliability has help to breach and gain a foothold in the European automobile market. * Toyota is on the forefront of cutting edge technology and is the leading manufacturer for Hybrid vehicles in Europe and aims to further increase sales of Hybrids and PHEV in the next 2 years. * The Toyota Way of management continues to advocate efficiency in the production, distribution and sales of Toyota vehicles.Toyota's continues drive towards efficiency has led to a reduction in cost of production/distribution/sales * Toyota's Sustainability Report informs partners, distributors, employees and customers of the company's commitment to a cleaner future. This further reinforces Toyota's Corporate Social Responsibility in the minds of all third parties. * Th e company has a highly skilled workforce * Wide distribution network through clearly marked Toyota stores and other authorised distributors allowing potential customers easy access to the company's vehicles Weaknesses * Toyota's size as an organisation is in itself a weakness.The scale of the company presents different sets of challenges. The decision making process may be slower than in other organisations due to the sheer size of the management structure. * A wide distribution network requires a large workforce dedicated to logistics and distribution which can be quite expensive. * A weakness can also be identified in the supply chain for hybrid vehicles in Europe. Even though hybrid Yaris and Auris models are produced in Britain (and as of April 2012, also in France) almost all of the parts used to make these vehicles have to be imported.This will increase the overall cost per unit, therefore reducing competitiveness. (Reuters 5th March 2012) * Toyota owns and runs 8 manufacturin g plants, 14 parts centres and 9 vehicle logistic centres in Europe. These plants and centres have high fixed costs. With an expected 5% decrease in the demand for cars in Europe, these plants' fixed costs may become a long term burden on Toyota Europe and may decrease profitability. Opportunities * Being on the forefront of hybrid and PHEV technology, Toyota is an ideal position to strengthen its hold on this market segment and increase overall sales in Europe.In fact sales targets for 2013/14 for hybrid vehicles are initially set at 14% and 20% at a later stage. Various governments are imposing lower licensing fees on hybrid vehicles thus providing the perfect incentive for consumers to opt for a Toyota hybrid model * Soaring fuel prices are driving consumers to look for alternative modes of transport. Toyota's hybrid and PHEV vehicles are very fuel efficient thus providing Toyota with the perfect opportunity to increase its market share. * Toyota plans to start manufacturing part s for hybrid and PHEV in Europe once sales reach 150,000 hybrid vehicles per year.At present, these parts are imported from Asia and the US. The production of parts in Europe would bring significant savings in transport and logistical costs which would bring a lower cost per unit and in term allow Toyota to be even more competitive with its prices. This would also put Toyota in a position to offer maintenance services to its customers at a lower price. Threats * In recent years Toyota has had to recall millions of vehicles due to defective brakes, suspensions and accelerator units. Recalls have cost Toyota millions of dollars in the past and they continue to be a costly problem in the present and foreseeable future.Recalls can also have a negative effect on brand equity and effect sales growth in the long term. * New brands could increase competition and erode Toyota's sales. New entrants from Korea, China and India are providing various market offerings, at different levels of qual ity and at increasingly competitive prices. * Soaring fuel prices and raw material prices could have a negative impact on costs of production and distribution therefore further reducing profitability. * Economic factors such as the global recession in the last 3/4 years and the lack of consumer confidence in banking institutions will have a negative effect on sales.In recent years, unemployment rates have risen in Europe making selling expensive commodities, such as cars, even harder. 2. 5 Competition The Automobile industry is in itself a fiercely competitive industry. Even more so in the European market place due to the numerous European car manufacturers. Toyota faces stiff competition from most European car makers as they market and sell the bulk of their products in Europe. Therefore when it comes to purchasing a car, the European consumer has many more product offerings to chose from. Most of the European car makers have developed entire fleets of cars to suite different budge ts, demographics and astes. In Europe, specifications such as miles per gallon, design features and retail price, have become battle grounds for car manufacturers. Toyota also faces a socio-cultural challenge: European car manufacturers take pride in the fact that their cars are designed and built in Europe for Europeans. This, in a way, can prove to be an advantage for brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. These brands can give the perception of being able to understand the European consumer's needs better than their Asian and American counterparts. Toyota also faces stiff competition from other Asian manufacturers such as Kia, Hyundai and Honda.These manufacturers have also realised the importance of maximising fuel efficiency (with particular emphasis to small urban/city cars). Asia manufacturers have also been able to compete when it comes to retail price. Labour is relatively cheap in certain parts of Asia, thus allowing Asian manufacturers to keep costs of producti on low and passing on the savings to its customers. Competition has also risen due to new entrants into the European market. American giant General Motors launched Chevrolet Europe in 2005. Chevrolet have redesigned product offerings and created new product offerings to suit the European market.

Neurexins Induce Differentiation of GABA and Glutamate Postsynvariants Article - 1

Neurexins Induce Differentiation of GABA and Glutamate Postsynvariants - Article Example Neuroligins induce presynaptic differentiation. Findings show that the neurexin-neuroligin link is a core component mediating both GABA and binding to EphB receptors can promote MMDA receptor aggregation. The introduction of a specialized function by narp in regulating the synaptic de3nsity of AMPA receptors on spiny neurons. Neuroligins have been found to induce presynaptic differentiation in the glutamatergic activity of neuroliginaxons. The absence of immunoreactivity for postsynaptic antigens distinguished GAD65 culture and with either COS or CV1 cells. Immature neutrons lacking endogenous lapses exhibit clues and VGlut1 clusters induced by neuroligins from the few endogenous synapses that happen to lie under terms of gephyrin and PSD-95. Neurexins also induce clustering of the cyan fluorescent protein at its intercellular essential NR1 subunit of NMDA receptors. The family of excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding proteins number and total integrated intensity of these clusters in conducting dendrites. In addition, even though neurexins are unable to attach to neuroligins (Ichtchenko et al., 1995), they may undergo Mechanisms of Postsynaptic Differentiation. To better understand whether the b-neurexin–neuroligin complex acts bidirectional and controls postsynaptic differentiation trigger formation of functional presynaptic terminals in axons through interaction with its axonal receptor b-neurexin, Ben Chih and his collaborators overexpressed NL-1 in cultured hippocampal neurons (7). The excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs determine the proper functioning of the neural networks. Bidirectional signaling between pre- and postsynaptic cells is thought to regulate synaptic formation. RNA interference in down-regulation of the neuroligin isoform results in a loss of excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Electrophysiological analysis concealed a major drop of inhibitory synaptic function.  

What is the link between resilience and complexity Essay

What is the link between resilience and complexity - Essay Example In the present world, changes are ever occurring, many of which come with difficulties of adapting to. Various difficulties in life have forced people to bounce back to their normal living styles even after the complexities of life. The bouncing back provides a definition of the resilience concept. In this paper, discussion is made on the inter-relation of resilience and complexity. Resilience thinking is elaborated to show its broad areas of application and the how it is taken in the social, as well as the political scenarios. Thus, resilience thinking is the solution to the problem of governance in this complex world. Resilience is a principal concept in regard to government policy understandings. Currently, resilience is viewed as the ideal policy. It is, therefore, evident that resilience is a key facet on governance; as it shapes thinking. This complex world is in dire need of a new approach of governing. It is vital to note that the world is viewed as complex. Thus, without complexity, there would be no need of resilience. This is based on the fact that resilience thinking is involved with risks as well as complex aspects that influence the life of man. The synergy between resilience thinking in regard to governance and the complexity of the world will be under analysis. Resilience has come to be recognized as central to international and domestic policy-making. It has come to be seen as the guiding principle of policy governance and a key political category of our time. For sustainable development, resilience has become a top priority, and an international development aid agenda, which is key to international security concerns since it is vital for disaster risk reduction. Resilience affects the way politics is conducted both at the domestic and international levels1. In this discussion, a range of issues and questions will be analysed in terms of resilience frameworks, from educational training in schools to the global ethics and from

The Effects of M&A on SMEs Lending ( methodology and procedure ) Assignment

The Effects of M&A on SMEs Lending ( methodology and procedure ) - Assignment Example ful since the researcher will choose the participants based on experiences, department positions, and academic qualification thus gaining more insight about the issue under investigation. The study targets healthy adults either working as professionals in banks or operating a business. The researcher will use questionnaires to gather information from participants since the study targets literate people. In addition, the researcher will conduct evaluation of filled questionnaires for accuracy and authenticity since they can be affected by various factors like prejudices, and political climate. Sources must pass either an external criticism; the process of determining the trustworthiness, authenticity, or validity, or internal criticism; the process of determining the accuracy or reliability of the information collected. Firsthand information by event witnesses, for example are classically assumed more accurate and reliable. Lastly, it is important to conduct data synthesis and preparing a report. In this case, synthesis is the selecting, structuring, and analyzing the materials gathered into central concepts and topical themes. Thesis themes are then joined to form a meaningful and contiguous whole. Additionally, the stage of data gathering involves spotting, locat ing, and collecting data on the research topic. The information sources are contained in documents such as records, newspapers, relics, photographs, and interviews with people who have experienced or have knowledge of the research subject. Each data source must be evaluated and assessed for accuracy and authenticity because it can negatively affected by aspects such as economic conditions, prejudice, and political climate. In addition, it is important to pass sources in either external criticism; the process of determining the trustworthiness, authenticity, or validity, or internal criticism; the process of determining the accuracy or reliability of the information collected. The researcher will recruit

Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca - Essay Example Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca landed on the shores of Cuba. Next, the Spanish sailor traveled by sea towards the sunny beaches of Florida. Next, Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca’s reached the shores of the Mississippi river. Next, the sailor landed in Galvestan, United States. Finally, the famous sailor slowly but surely reached Mexico and Veracruz, as expected, the sailor’s voyage was wrought with dangers. Hurricanes were a normally sight. Many of Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca’s sailor died while trying to prevent the hurricanes from capsizing the boat. An estimated 13 sailors were able to make it to Land. The sailors landed on the shores of the Colorado River. The few survivors were able conquer the harsh nature of the rapid waters of the Colorado River. As expected, only four men remained alive during the travel. The four survivors included Alonso Maldonado and Cabeza de Baca. The other survivors included the Estevanico and Carranza. While in the United States, the Spanish travelers were able to see the huge American buffalo (Adorno 11) While in the United States, the group was able meet the other Spanish group in Culian Can during the adventurous year of 1536. The group was converse with the Mexico City officer, its governor. The sailors conversed with the Indian residents in the place. After several years, Cabeza de Vaca was able to travel back to his native land, Spain. Upon arriving in his native country, Cabeza de Vaca focused his attention to writing books. With his writing prowess, Cabeza de Vaca was able to inspire other fellow Spanish sailors to travel abroad. The other Spanish sailors included Hernando de Soto as well as Francisco Vasquez de Coronado (Pautz, 4). Upon reaching the United States, Cabeza de Vaca was able to write a very popular book (Favata 43). The book was entitled seven cities of Cbola. Cabeza de Vaca wrote about the life in the Indies. When he was in his Indies, he would love travel form one community to

DQ Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

DQ - Assignment Example In this case, the implementation of such decisions is usually very difficult and sometimes, they do not come to be. To be able to survive in such organizations, one needs to work closely with the managers and follow their day to day instructions in accomplishing their tasks (Banutu & Shandra, 20007). This way, it will be easy for employees to learn and know what the new implementations are according to the new decision made. The main leadership of an organization should be responsible for driving change in the organization. According to Diab (2014), organizations can fail due to various reasons such as lack of enough preparation, inadequate resources, ill-conception and others (Diab, 2014). However, the main hindrance to organizational change, he says, is the behavior of leaders. Leaders can fail in the effective management of change as well as showing worse behavior that are not change friendly. When those leading change agree with the change and become ready to embrace it, it I very easy for the change to be implemented in the organization. However, the style of leadership can also create a barrier in the way the organization will receive the change. Leaders can create a culture in an organization that totally cannot tolerate change (Ford, 2005). At the same time, they can decide to involve the employees in change management by letting them know the part they need to play to hasten the implementation process. When they decide not to support the change, their style of leadership will be act to create a barrier for the change not to take course. Diab, S. M. (2014). The impact of leadership styles on selection the areas of organizational change (an empirical study on the jordanian pharmaceutical companies). International Journal of Business and Management, 9(8),

Cleveland Apollo Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Cleveland Apollo - Assignment Example This rampant concern about the ethical acquisition of antiquities has been the outcome of the widespread demands being made by the varied governments for the return of antiquities acquired by museums and collectors through unethical and illegal means and procedures, and the associated high profile trials. In that context the Cleveland Museum of Art’s acquisition of the statue of Apollo attributed to Praxiteles has attracted much controversy owing to the intriguing nature of its acquisition (Litt, 2010). Keeping in mind the existent ethics and international laws pertaining to the acquisitions of antiquities, it will certainly be apt to say that for the time the Cleveland Museum of Art must desist from displaying this statue of Apollo. The Cleveland Museum of Art acquired the controversial statue in 2004. Since then this statue has attracted much controversy. The museum is believed to have paid approximately $5 million to acquire this statue from Phoenix Ancient Art. This statut e is noted to be seen on an estate in Germany in the 30s and was noted to have stayed there before it was purchased by a Dutch antique collector in 1994 (Litt, 2010). After that the statute remained unseen for quite some time till it was traced to the Phoenix Ancient Art in 2002 (Cultural Heritage Resource, 2013). ... Thereby, the much plausible premise that ensues from the statement made by the Phoenix Ancient Art is that the firm was well aware of the statute’s past ownership history till it acquired it in 2002. This brings the acquisition of the Apollo statute by the Cleveland Museum of Art in direct confrontation with the established authorities and bodies of specialty, which have promulgated well specified ethical guidelines and ethical codes pertaining to the acquisition of antiquities. It will be academically quite insightful to delve into the guidelines published by these bodies of concern. The things is that any ethical museum or organization needs to stick to the guidelines ensuing from the UNESCO Convention aimed at prohibiting the unethical and illegal import and export of the cultural antiquities. As per the 1970 UNESCO Convention, the cultural antiquities need to be acquired in consonance with the international laws and the domestic laws imminent on the sale and purchase of su ch works of art (UNESCO, 2012)). Thereby, in a legal context this Convention debars the import of any antiquity into the United States of America that did not get out of the jurisdiction of its country of origin at a time that was not prior to the date when the restrictions were imposed, or any artifact that is not accompanied by an export license issued by its country of origin (Archaeological Institute of America (a), 2013). Now when one takes the UNESCO guidelines into consideration it does need to be mentioned that as per EC Regulation 3911/92, the export of any cultural antiquity that was traced in the jurisdiction of any EU member state in 1994 needs to be accompanied by an export license (Cultural Heritage Resource, 2013). This stands to be

All Ideas Derive from the Sense Experience Which They Copy. Discuss Essay Example for Free

All Ideas Derive from the Sense Experience Which They Copy. Discuss Essay All ideas derive from the sense experience which they copy. DISCUSS An empiricist would be in favour of this view as they believe that knowledge is gained through experience (a posterior). For example, John Locke believes that the mind is a blank slate, or tabula rasa, which becomes populated with ideas through sense experience – in order to create ideas and knowledge, we must have sense experiences. Hume, also an empiricist, argues that ideas are copies of sense data. He has a method which states that faint ideas can become stronger through a fresh sense experience – thus implying that all ideas do derive from the sense experience which they copy. He further backs up this idea through his negative view on the imagination, which in his words is â€Å"confined within very narrow limits†. His strong stance states that no idea can be constructed without any sense experience -anything that may seem like an idea built without sense-data is simply a combination of other ideas. I can give the example of a Golden Mountain. Such a thing can never be experienced, but we can have an experience of â€Å"gold† similarly to the fact that we can also experience a â€Å"mountain†, and through these separate ideas we can construct a singular hybrid idea. Hume also talks of the concept of ‘a time when nothing happens’. The concept is easily fathomable in the human mind and seems logical. He argues that, although no sense experience was required to have an idea of this concept, such a time is actually impossible to experience thus dismissing this illusive idea as something he refers to as ‘sophistry and illusion’. A huge criticism of the Empiricist view is the fact that we only experience sense-data rather than the world itself. This is best explained through the idea of Noumena/Phenomena, in which the phenomena is our perception of the world and the noumena is the actual world itself. The only way to experience the noumena would be through a sense experience – however this experience would simply be another phenomena, thus implying that experiencing the real world is impossible. If such a thing is impossible and if all knowledge is built on things that we cannot truly reach, then how can it be possible to back up the Empiricist view that all ideas derive from sense experience? However, an Empiricist might respond with the claim that it is probably highly unlikely that we are perceiving something completely different to the noumena. Both claims have no proof and can therefore only be as unlikely or likely as each other. Descartes discussed the possibility of an ‘Evil Demon’ who could be tricking us into believing that we exist when really we do not. However, as a religious man, he concludes that God would not let this happen. Therefore, as the argument is similar, Descartes might argue that it is highly unlikely that we are perceiving completely different to the noumena as God, who wouldn’t let us be tricked by an evil demon, would not let such a thing happen. A philosopher who might argue against the Empiricist view is Wittgenstein. He argues that â€Å"experience does not direct us to derive anything from experience†. He says that learning something cannot be done on sense experience alone – it also requires teaching or applying reason to. Plato may also back up the Rationalist view that not all ideas derive from the sense experience which they copy, as he believes that some ideas are innate, such as mathematical and logical truths. An example of this can be taken from his dialogue ‘Meno’ in which Socrates encourages an uneducated slave boy to work out a mathematical truth relating to the lengths of sides of squares. The boy can successfully solve the problem without any prior knowledge of mathematics – thus proving that such knowledge is innate and only requires thought to solve. Descartes also argues against the empiricist view that all knowledge is built from sense experience – he argues that reason must also be applied to gain knowledge. This can be explained through an example in which he states the idea of a solid piece of wax. The solid wax is accidentally left to melt by the fire and become liquid. If we were to build ideas solely on sense experience, we might think that the solid wax and melted wax were TWO separate ideas. However, by applying reason we can deduce that the two forms are in fact the same thing. This idea could be opposed with the argument that if one had never experienced the melting of wax, or been taught the facts of materials changing state, then they would in fact not be able to apply such reason. In summary of all points made in this essay, we can conclude that Empiricists such as Locke and Hume would argue in favour of the claim that all ideas derive from sense experience, and that Rationalists, e.g. Descartes and Wittgenstein, would argue in opposition. This is due to a variety of beliefs but mainly due to the foundations of Empiricism (a posteriori knowledge) and Rationalism (a priori knowledge). Personally, although I believe that most knowledge is built mainly from sense experience, I sway to the Rationalist’s side as I agree that knowledge must be taught or applied reason to – however, I’m not entirely convinced by the idea of innate knowledge such as the kind Plato suggests.

Profession Selected Essay Example for Free

Profession Selected Essay An accountancy firm provides a vast number of services, such as accountancy, assurance, information technology and secretarial services. For the scope of this paper, we will select and focus on assurance services entailed by an external auditor on public limited companies in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act. 1. 1 Research Methodology The research methodology adopted in this assignment shall utilize both primary and secondary data in order to attain sufficient information necessary for the job research on assurance services. The primary data will comprise a qualitative research carried out through interviews with audit managers and in-charge auditors of one of the big four accountancy firms, KPMG, which is shown in Appendix A. Secondary information shall entail relevant textbooks, journal articles and web documents as portrayed in the bibliography section. 1. 2 Daily Demands of a Professional Auditor in Public Practice The comments provided by the audit manager interviewed, shown in Appendix A of this paper are much in line with what is stated in auditing textbooks, with respect to the work of the auditor. Planning is the initial stage of the audit, once the auditor is selected and the directors sign the engagement letter (AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 2005, p 14). The audit strategy commences with the objectives of the audit, which normally are identifying key audit areas, nothing-potential problems, assigning the staff properly and facilitating the audit review (AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 2005, p 94). This planning step normally entails an examination of the industry, and the company’s management in order to ascertain the inherent risks of the firm. The flow of documentation and extent of controls present in the organization are also examined with the goal of setting the control risk. Once the inherent and control risks are set, the detection risk, which is the only risk within the auditor’s control, is established. The setting of the materiality level, which is an integral part of risk assessment lead to the end of the planning stage of the audit (AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 2005, p 96 – 101). The actual testing of account balances and transactions commences when the fieldwork starts, normally at the client’s premises. Tests of control will be applied on the internal controls present in the corporation with the aim of evaluating their effectiveness in detecting and preventing error and fraud. This aids the auditor in determining the substantive tests necessary. In organizations with effective internal control systems, restrictive substantive testing is usually carried out, which comprises audit test on the areas where reasonable assurance was not provided by reliance on the internal controls (AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 2005, p 15). The daily demands of an auditor are not only on testing, especially when considering the in-charge auditor. Direction and supervision of audit assistants is necessary in order to ensure proper co-ordination. Meetings with the engagement partner, manager and audit staff is also carried out during the audit, both at the planning stage, fieldwork and completion phase (AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 2005, p 110 – 114). 1. 3 Skills and personality traits necessary in an audit environment A generic answer was provided by the audit manager interviewed, in which he stated that technical, communication and computer application skills are necessary. Good appearance and ethical behavior were noted as regards the personality traits. We can further compound on such matters by amplifying the skills necessary and expounding the ethical attitude necessary for such profession. Communication includes three main skills, speaking, listening and interpersonal skills. Speaking skills comprises clear articulation, intonation effects and the pace and pauses adopted during the conveying of the message. During a conversation, both face-to-face and over the telephone it is important that we listen. Our ability in properly decoding messages and responding to his feedback even through a â€Å"yes† can build a positive relationship, which will ultimately enhance proper communication (AAT Interactive Text Units 22 and 23 2005, p 224). Interpersonal skills include a mixture of speaking and listening abilities. An individual with good interpersonal abilities will be highly effective in motivating staff, team-building and customer care, which are very important in auditing. Such important benefits are derived from staff who is able in negotiating and persuading other people, managing conflict and communicate informatively and supportively (AAT Interactive Text Units 22 and 23 2005, p 201). The computer applications and technical knowledge pointed out during the interview are also important skills. Computer software that is normally utilized by an auditor are office software like Microsoft word and excel, and accounting packages such as sage, which will be adopted by the client in order to record accounting transactions and provide the necessary reports. As regards the technical competence, which is frequently attained through formal training in a university needs to be further enhanced once achieved. A degree qualification is not an end, but a means to an end. It is therefore vital that once enrolling in such profession we continue covering important technical areas, such as accounting and auditing standards in order to progress our knowledge on such aspects. Indeed it is common practice for audit firms to induce and support staff to higher formal education relevant to the auditing profession to increase and widen their technical abilities. The ethical behavior outlined by the manager interviewed can be further illustrated with the aid of the code of ethics of accountants and auditors. An auditor is required to be independent and portray technical competence, integrity and professional attitude in his behavior and judgments (Cottell G. P. et al. 1990, p 29). Independence is achieved by not having close relations in the company, not accepting gifts from customer and the client does not entail a substantial part of the auditor’s income, which is outside the scope of the employee (AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 2005, p 25 26). Technical abilities are sustained through the license requirements, which will be further referred to in the following section. While the latter two, highly depend on the character of the individual and the attention devoted to his behavior. The individual interviewed outlined the importance of proper behavior as shown in Appendix A. 1. 4 Licensing Requirements for an Auditor The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants is the representative body in charge of licensing accountants and auditors in public practice (The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants). The person interviewed outlined this point. From such interview the case of technical competence and practical experience also emerged in order to attain such license. A degree majoring in accountancy is necessary from an accredited university, together with a number of years of practical experience with a licensed auditor working in public practice. 1. 5 Remuneration of an Auditor The point that initially an auditor employed in an audit firm will be remunerated a lower wage in relation to the industry arose from the interview. Indeed the interviewee outlined that an average wage of $20 per hour is achieved. This stems from the fact that at the beginning an assistant auditor would need considerable on the job training and could not be given a job alone. However, through progression and promotion, the wage can increase reaching a mean of $32. 21 per hour. The possibility of room for growth arose for such job. 1. 6 Opportunities and Threats of in an Audit Environment The audit manager highlighted the fact that a correlation exists between the industry performance and the demand for auditors, like every industry related job. In this respect, the better the economy the greater the job opportunities for auditors. However, the unification of a number of different countries in North America and Europe is providing the opportunity of international markets. As a result, the rewards that successful candidates can achieve once attaining the qualification and entering in such profession are improving (Successful Students get their just reward 2005, p 8). For instance, in the big four audit firms, like KPMG, secondment opportunities are frequently provided to staff, once they gain sufficient experience in the profession. This thus enables them to work in other countries and widen their practical experience on auditing. It was also noted in section 1. 3 that audit firms are supporters of formal education in order to improve the technical competence of staff. Therefore employees also have the opportunity to increase their education with the aid of the company. Such help may consist of study leave and even financial assistance on the course fee. In the industry such training opportunities are difficult. The manager interviewed showed his concern upon the main threat of an auditor, which consists of providing an incorrect audit opinion and losing the firm’s reputation. At the beginning of our employment in such profession, however the threat will stem from the increasing competition arising from the rise of students undergoing accountancy courses to commence working as auditors. In addition, such industry is considered as a monopolistic market, in which a vast number of clients and auditors exist (Shailer G. et al 2004, p 263). This leads to tough competition requesting the need of high efficiency and service quality, which will be exerted on a tougher selection of employees in the firm. Thus it is important that we enhance the skills necessary for an auditor, portrayed in section 1. 3, to overcome such threat. 1. 7 Final Thought – My Strengths and Weaknesses in relation to this Profession I am already involved in an accountancy course and therefore the technical skills are being achieved. My commitment to studies is also boosting me in such area. I also possess a good knowledge of computer applications software and always successfully managed to work in a team. The main weakness that I can presently identify is the inability to apply such technical knowledge in practice. This arises from my limited working experience in such area. However, I am confident that once I commence working as an assistant auditor, I will mitigate this problem through the on the job training provided and my dedication to such work. Appendix A – Questions and Answers attained from the interview 1. Is planning necessary in auditing? If yes explain what it entails? An external auditor is required by Auditing Standards to properly plan an audit before the commencement of the audit itself. This aids the auditor is assessing risk and identifying key areas of the audit. A properly set plan also promotes coordination and efficiency in the audit team. 2. What is main objective of the audit? The primary duty of the auditor is to prepare a report on the truth and fairness of the financial statements. 3. What are the salient daily demands during the audit fieldwork? Once the in-charge auditor starts the audit assignment, he should coordinate his and the teams efforts in order to complete the audit within the specified deadline. The internal control system should be checked first via tests of control in order to identify the internal control strengths and weaknesses, which will ultimately affect the audit tests carried out. This is followed by substantive procedures on the important elements of the financial statements. 4. Name the main skills that an external auditor necessitates? Apart from technical competence in accountancy and auditing, an auditor requires good communication skills both written and verbal and knowledge of computer applications. On advancement, management and leadership skills are also necessary in view, that he will be managing an audit team. 5. How should an auditor behave at the client’s premises? A professional attitude is a must in auditing. We have to keep abreast the fact that due to the lack of tangibility in a service, the customer will frequently seek tangible factors such as the behavior of audit staff in assessing the service provided. This is thus an important facet to sustain the reputation of the firm. Apart from dressing smartly, the auditor is required to behave ethically, paying particular attention in the communication style and words used when discussing the audit with the client. 6. What is the current compensation of a recent graduate in this profession? At the beginning, the normal average wage of an assistant auditor would be $20 per hour. Such low wage is provided at the commencement in relation to the industry in view of the on the job training necessary to such staff. Upon progression and promotion the employee can reach $32. 21 per hour. 7. What are the current opportunities in the audit profession? This profession is highly correlated with the industries performance. The more the companies incorporated, the greater the job opportunities for an auditor. The increasing unification of countries, like the European Union is also providing access to international markets. 8. Name the main threats of an auditor? The most critical threat that an auditor faces is the public exposure in instances where an incorrect audit opinion is provided and the organization faces financial problems. In these cases the reputation of the audit firm is destroyed, like Arthur Anderson in the Enron incident. The increasing competition in such profession is also exerting considerable pressure on efficiency and audit fee. 9. What are the licensing requirements to operate as an auditor in public practice? A special license is necessary to operate as an auditor, which is provided by American Institute of Chartered Accountants once sufficient technical competence and audit training are achieved. Bibliography AAT Interactive Text Unit 17 (2005). Implementing Audit Procedures. London: BPP Professional Education. AAT Interactive Text Units 22 and 23 (2005). Health and Safety and Personal Effectiveness. London: BPP Professional Education. Cottell G. P. ; Perlin M. T. (1990). Accounting Ethics: A Practical Guide for Professionals. Westport: Quorum Books. Shailer G. ; Cummings L. ; Vatuloka E. ; Welch S. (2004). Discretionary Pricing in a Monopolistic Audit Market, International Journal of Auditing, Vol. 8, Issue 3. Successful Students get their just reward, The News Letter, 29th June 2005. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Legislative Activities and State Licensing Issues (on line). Available from: http://www. aicpa. org/Legislative+Activities+and+state+licensing+Issues/ (Accessed 21st May 2007)

The Issue Of Compulsive Lying Philosophy Essay

The Issue Of Compulsive Lying Philosophy Essay Compulsive lying is a common disorder frequently acquired by low self-esteem and a demand for attention. To begin, it may help to apprehend the difference between pathological and compulsive lying. A pathological liar will lie relentlessly to gain satisfaction of their needs. This person has very little courtesy or consideration for the feelings of others. Pathological lying is generally observed as a way to cope and is usually developed in early childhood. Being manipulative, insidious, and egocentric are all characteristics that come along with pathological liars. On the other hand, compulsive liars are more modest. The trouble with these liars is that they are addicted to being dishonest. Lying is a habit and it is in their nature to lie about things, great and small, regardless of the situation. It is a way of life to consistently bend the truth. To make matters worse, compulsive lying is often just a symptom of an even greater personality disorder, which makes it harder for the problem to be resolved. There are various types of lies that people take to their advantage. The white lie is the polite, well intentioned lie. It is used to exaggerate, or embellish gossip. A common example is the giving of a false compliment, not to hurt the feelings of someone making the request. Another type of lie is the bold-face lie. This is the obvious, far-fetched lie, commonly used in telling stories and tall tales. Lying by omission is also another example. Most criminal frauds or businesses use this technique by leaving out certain information, manipulation of prices, or by taking an advanced fee without delivering services or goods. Whether it is to destroy a persons reputation, to avoid the admission of guilt, to bypass consequences, or to escape rejection, people lie endlessly. Detecting a Lie The cruelest lies are often told in silence. Robert Louis Stevenson Body language is difficult to control, which leads us to believe that nonverbal cues would be easy to conceive. But despite the common belief, there are no rational, nonverbal signals that affiliate with lying. Lying is difficult to conceal because emotions give away a persons identity. It takes much more mental effort to lie, than it does to tell the truth. Lying also causes more anxiety and stress. There are many general behaviors that relate to lying. Physical characteristics will be limited and stiff, noticeable speech errors, shorter responses, fidgeting, and blinking are all examples. Another popular belief tells that a liar will break eye contact. But on the contrary, many liars will try to keep the eye contact, making it seem as if they are not lying. The timing and duration of emotional gestures are off normal pace. When receiving an unwanted gift, for example, a person will tell how much they love the gift and then smile, rather than at the same time the statement was made. Many expressions will be controlled and clearly false. Liars often avoid silence in a conversation; they will add unnecessary details to support their lie. Unfortunately for some people, lying becomes effortless. Research shows that lying is very common in relationships, and many people are talented at it. It is normal for kids to lie at an early age, whether it is to get out of trouble, or to mislead parents. Parents have trouble detecting lies in their children, especially when they are at such young age. Most children have difficulty learning how to protect others feelings by lying. In some cases, the truth can be abhorrent and severe. There is no precise way to tell if someone is being honest or not, which makes it easier for people to lie. Not everyone experiences guilt, and by getting away with lying, they will begin to think it is acceptable. When Lovers Lie Ask me no questions and Ill tell you no lies.Oliver Goldsmith It is not eccentric for lovers to lie to each other. As a matter of a fact, this issue occurs frequently, especially among lovers. Spouses tend to worry and become inquisitive, exceedingly asking questions. Partners may tend to ask many provoking questions, such as; who you with were, what you were doing, the truth of the matter, and why you took so long. After being interrogated, the spouse feels as if their sense of solitude has been revealed. Asking questions is always good, but too much of a good thing can become bothersome. As a form of defense, lying becomes the key in this situation. Another influence in lying to a lover is the beliefs and practices of intimacy. There are several types of attachment styles and deception. First, truth tellers in a relationship are usually very secure. They feel comfortable with themselves and their lover. Second, most individuals who lie to please their partners are often apprehensive. Fear of rejection causes them to be more susceptible to lyi ng. These people are needy, and ask a lot of invasive questions. Ultimately, spouses will try and keep a good distance between one another by lying. A spouse can only get so close if they dont know the truth. There are many topics that lovers lie to each other about. The first topic is relational issues. Past relations, time spent together, feelings, and commitment are all examples of this. For instance, lovers lie about their friendships with other people. They may be on the phone, texting, and e-mailing others of the opposite gender, while their spouse has no idea about it. They often hide the time spent with other friends or co-workers. Another issue deals with their sexuality. Several examples are sexual history, masturbation, and sexual fantasies. Negative thoughts and behaviors are commonly lied about as well. Lovers will lie about liking their spouses appearance, hair, weight, age, or clothing. Finally, financial issues, as far as spending problems, debts, and income can be l ied about. The truth that survives is simply the lie that is pleasantest to believe. H. L. Mencken pros and cons of lying There may be certain reasons to lie, that seem acceptable in some cases. The expression, truth hurts is generally accurate. The truth can be the most painful thing to hear, especially if it is not what you are expecting. Relationships are based up the truth and that occasional lie. I sometimes think about someone else during sex, or I often wonder why we are together are both very hurtful truths that would be told in a relationship. Lovers often hide the truth, because they do not want to hurt their partner. But in opposition, when we really want to hurt somebody, we often say what we think. The truth will come out fierce and impetuously once the relationship is falling apart, and one or the other partners no longer see a future with each other. While telling the truth in a relationship can lead to much pain, lying is almost a necessity. Avoiding conflicts is one way that lying can be an advantage. Lies that built are better than truths that destroy. Senegalese Proverb Couples do not always see eye-to-eye on certain issues, and conflicts will spark up. They argue about many different topics, such as; annoying habits, how to raise kids, how they spend time and money, and household chores. It varies between relationships because many people do not like to argue. An easy way to avoid conflicts is deception. Deception safely divides the lovers negative thoughts toward each other. It also helps share lives with each other while avoiding difficult issues that are not always easily discussed. It can be simpler to tell the partner what they want to hear, rather than arguing over the topic. Deception also helps to protect privacy. People cherish their rights to make decisions for themselves and having freedom without a partner constantly acting as a road block. No one wants to be controlled or taken from their independence. This allows us to control and maintain boundaries. There are also many disadvantages of lying. In a relationship, love and trust are on e in the same. Without trust, it is almost impossible to have a stable relationship. Many couples break up with each other once one gets caught lying or cheating. It is very difficult to regain trust with someone who has already broken it. But if the couples truly want to work it out, they will make an effort to do so. Lying can also be used to limit choice and take away a persons control. Lying is actually a form of stealing. When you lie to someone, you are stealing their right to make a decision based on the reality of the situation. The person does not know the truth of the matter, so they are unable to act for themselves. If a man is sufficiently unimaginative to produce evidence in support of a lie, he might just as well speak the truth at once. Oscar Wilde Once a lie is told, it must be repeated. When people embellish in a story, they often tell it so many times that they start to believe their own lie. To keep accuracy, the lie would have to be continual. Once lies are started, they are difficult to maintain. Whether it is to avoid conflict, exercise freedom, or to protect harsh feelings, lying must have a balance. How to Tell A Lie Lying is a lot easier than people think. Lies often go undetected. It is very important to keep track of the lies being told. People think they can tell when a lover is lying by watching their nonverbal behavior. Again, the truth is much further. People also play close attention on their verbal responses and body language, which does not work. Although partners use the wrong methods of detecting a lie, it is helpful to know what activates a partners suspicion when lying. So, while attempting to lie, make sure to limit all suspicious behavior. First, do no drag out or exaggerate a lie. Keep it short and go straight to the point. Providing too many details will make the lie sound suspicious. For example, while coming home late one night, you decide to lie about where you were. Instead of telling the truth about being at a friends house, you lie about a line of traffic that you were stuck in. You should have seen the traffic delay. People were backed up for miles. Once we finally began to move, we moved at a crawl. It took forever to get out of there! Essentially, your spouse might question why there are so many unnecessary details to that story. To make it much easier and more believable, you could have said, Sorry, traffic was terrible tonight. This sounds much more honest and much less desperate. Second, while trying to lie, do not make up something far-fetched. It is better to keep the lie plausible. Stick with logical and reasonable excuses. Third, always stay calm. Do not show signs of anxiety or stress, considering this will give away the lie. If basic questions are asked, it is a good thing. Make sure to answer them with reasonable thought and be at peace. Finally, realize your partners level of attachment and use it to your advantage. If your partner is comfortable with intimacy and closeness, it helps to demonstrate them while lying. For example, using nicknames, standing closer, or holding them in your arms would all be convincing signs. But on the cont rary, if your partner is uncomfortable with showing intimacy, do not use this technique. This could make it even more suspicious and leave them wondering why you are acting different. Always tell the truth. That way, you dont have to remember what you said Mark Twain Telling the truth Once a lie is told, it is extremely difficult to go back and confess the truth. Sometimes it pays to come clean, but it can also lead to more problems. It can be hard to discuss your opinions with others, which makes confessing such a difficult decision to make. Eventually, in time, the truth will come out. The best way to discover the truth is to hear it from the person who told the lie. Many times, people slip up and hear the truth by other means, for example, third party information, surveillance, or accidental discovery. This will make it more difficult to regain trust. Not only have you done something wrong and lied about it, but you also made that extra effort to hide it. Regardless if you confess before the person hears about what has happened, there will still be many problems. It is critical to have trust when trying to work through problems. Often, people will come clean after a guilt trip plays a toll on them. Once you admit something you have done wrong, it can change the way someone sees you. It may create hostility and resentment. Although having everything out in the open can lead to more conflict in a relationship, lying and being guilty of doing so will lead to more conflicts. Trying to relieve guilt is not the wisest thing to do. People tend to experience the most guilt when they believe that they are going to get caught in their lie. As time goes by, the feelings of guilt will most likely fade away. But being able to trust your instincts will help in deciding whether or not it is a good idea to confess. If you believe that telling the truth will set you free and make your relationship grow through experience, then perhaps it is the best thing to do. Getting even or having the ambition to hurt a partner is often driven by telling the truth. Having good intentions will not always bring an honorable outcome, but negative intentions frequently bring adverse conclusions. Before the truth comes out, make sure you know what you want to accomplish by confessing. There are many factors to consider before telling the truth. First, time and setting will definitely make a huge difference in the reaction of the truth. For better results, look at the situation from your partners point of view. Make sure when confessing, it is at a time when they are able to reach out for support. Do it in a private place, where every thing is tranquil and at ease. The person may need time to cope with the suddenly given information. Second, prepare the person before breaking the news. Let them know that something needs to be talked about, and it may be difficult for them to conceive. Ask them to listen are react calmly to what you have to say. Third, try to be descriptive with your words and explanations. Describe what you have done, and why you chose to make those decisions. Take all responsibility for your actions. Never blame anyone but yourself for the lies you have told. Even when the other person may be partially to blame for the action, do not blame them, for it was your choice to lie about it. Fourth, always expect the worst. You can never be sure of how someone will react, but make sure to prepare for something heavy. Finally, do not fight back or try to defend yourself. The truth can be bearing to hear, and when someone is hurt or in a lot of pain, they tend to take it out on the person they believe responsible for it. The best way to deal with this situation is to avoid contention. Instead, stay calm and understand how they feel in the situation. Be aware of the decisions or changes your partner may want to make after hearing the truth. The truth that survives is simply the lie that is pleasantest to believe. H. L. Mencken Self Deception Often without realizing it, people lie to themselves on a daily basis. It is usually in order to maintain a sense of control. Many issues go on in the world that so many people do not even realize or take the time to understand. Our attention is focused mainly on what we care about or what we believe. Have you ever met someone at a party that you have never seen in your life before that? Then suddenly, after the party, you are seeing them every where you go. This is because we do not notice all of the people around us, unless we know who they are, or are interested in knowing them. But they have always been there; the difference is that we had been seeing them unconsciously. There are several advantages in self-deception. It is very beneficial because it allows people to disregard everyday errors, imperfections, and downfalls. Seeing the best in people, is apparent, even when the best may not be there. People are able to cultivate a positive self-control, cope with many of lifes prob lems, and have healthier romantic relationships. It is plain to see that people who do not engage in self deception will have a difficult time to maintain close relationships. Such individuals will abide in issues and have a hard time focusing on the good things in life. There are also disadvantages when it comes to self-deception. People will have trouble trying to work out hard times and dealing with the serious issues. If they are overlooking all of the bad, it can cause them to have even more emotional, physical, or mental problems. Too much optimism is disastrous, which is why you need a level of balance. Conclusion Compulsive lying goes much deeper than self-esteem issues, and there is more to it that you would even imagine. It is now clear that detecting a lie is not always as simple as it seems. There are many types of lies, and many ways to catch someone in the act of lying. People lie day to day, and sometimes they do not even realize it. Telling the truth is often just as hard as successfully telling a lie. Lying can serve as an advantage or disadvantage, depending on the situation. While trust is an ongoing process to build, it is constantly being broken back down by lies. Compulsive lying can be dealt with through counseling or therapy. But since it is an addictive habit, getting someone to admit the problem is the most difficult part. Resources Compulsive Lying Overview http://www.mental-health-matters.com/articles/article.php?artID=153 Detecting a Lie http://mama.essortment.com/liesdetecting_rarm.htm How to Detect a Lie http://www.blifaloo.com/info/lies.php Truth about Deception http://www.truthaboutdeception.com Deception Detection http://www.sciencenews.org/articles/20040731/bob8.asp How to Read People http://www.lifetrainingonline.com/blog/how-to-detect-lies.htm Foot Notes The cruelest lies are often told in silence. Robert Louis Stevenson Ask me no questions and Ill tell you no lies. Oliver Goldsmith The truth that survives is simply the lie that is pleasantest to believe. H. L. Mencken Lies that built are better than truths that destroy. Senegalese Proverb If a man is sufficiently unimaginative to produce evidence in support of a lie, he might just as well speak the truth at once. Oscar Wilde Always tell the truth. That way, you dont have to remember what you said. Mark Twain The truth that survives is simply the lie that is pleasantest to believe. H. L. Mencken

The Making of a True Person :: essays research papers

One day five years ago I meet a boy. This boy was special in every way possible, except with himself. He had always held back his feelings never sharing his thoughts with anyone. After a while this boy had grow close to me and we had started dating. The boy and I decided one day to call it off and just be good friends, but for the boy and I we didn't realize it but we had already grown to close. During a past years of being together we had dated on and off. Finding that ever time we split apart we had grown closer and could never leave each other's sight. Finally the boy and I decided to give it a long-term try, where we could talk out our differences and problems. I always knew that there was something he was holding back from me, but I could figure out what it was. The boy and I finally came to find that we loved each other not only as a couple, but also as a friend. We could always talk about what was on his mind and he would tell me little stuff such as: "I am just not happy with how things work in life." or "I can't understand how people do things like that." He would get upset so easily when he heard about parents forcing kids to believe in what the parents wanted them to against their will. I never understood why until one day when he decided to talk to me about it. When we first started to talk he told me first about the scar on his side, he told me how it wasn't a bullet mark that scraped across him but it was from when he had chicken pox. He told me about when he used to live in Bristol, and his dad was a Pasteur and how his dad had got to close to people in the church and they didn't like it so he was harassed until they moved here. His dad got his license for being a Pastuer taken away because of that. The boy said he w! as scared until I came along. He said that he felt he could trust me and knew he should give reasons on why he had hurt me before in the past. He felt that he should explain him self to me so that I knew how much I've done for him. He said I opened doorways

Geothermal Energy: A General Overview with Specific Reference to the Long Valley Caldera :: Energy Geothermal Papers

Geothermal Energy: A General Overview with Specific Reference to the Long Valley Caldera Introduction Geothermal energy is a process that uses heated groundwater to turn turbines that produce electricity. The water is warmed by the earth's natural heat. Geothermal energy was first developed by Count Lardarel of Lardarello, Tuscany in 1827 (Geothermal.marin). Since then many other countries have developed geothermal technology, yet it is a resource that remains mostly untapped. As the need to find alternative fuel sources grows, geothermal energy becomes an interesting option for potential future energy production. Geothermal energy production involves a complex set of issues. First it is important to place geothermal energy in context of today's energy needs. Currently, one of the ongoing dilemmas of energy use is the worldwide allocation of resources and general rate of consumption. Within this essay, I will illustrate a brief history of energy use and development. Geothermal energy can only be produced in particular geological settings. Only areas with recent volcanic activity can produce the heat needed for geothermal production. Therefore, a basic understanding of tectonic plate movement and volcanology is required to understand the production of geothermal energy. I intend to give a general background on the geological settings necessary for the production of geothermal energy production. Lastly, I will center on one region in particular, namely the Long Valley Caldera in California. This is an area that is saturated with historical and present volcanic activity. The recent volcanic activity makes it an area that is perfect for geothermal energy production. I will discuss in particular the Mammoth Pacific plant that operates in Mammoth Lakes. What is Geothermal Energy? The production of geothermal energy is a way of utilizing heat that is created by volcanic activity to produce electricity. Within a geothermal system, ground water is heated by magma chambers to temperatures as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the temperature of the water depends on the geothermal gradient. A gradient signifies how deep below the surface the heated water is. The deeper down the water is in the earth, the hotter it will be (this is called a steep geothermal gradient). The water either reaches the surface of the earth naturally in the form of geysers, fumaroles, or hot springs; or it must be drilled.

Nursing Care Plan of a Patient with Embolic CVA Essay

Summary of Admission History and Progress Notes: 67-year-old male has a history of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy with ejection factor of 24%, chronic left ventricle thrombus on anticoagulant, hypertension, metastasis of prostate cancer, chronic kidney disease stage 3. Patient was admitted to UCSD emergency department on 08/20 after falling down stairs. Patient presented confused but conscious. Upon presentation in the ED he had left face, left arm, and left leg weakness. After MRI and cerebral angiogram, findings were conclusive to a right-sided embolic CVA. Echocardiogram revealed apical ventricular thrombus. Patient presented to ED on Coumadin therapy with INR at 3.1. Patient was not a candidate for thrombolytic therapy. He continued on Coumadin and aspirin 81 milligrams was added. Left-sided weakness resolved within one to two days. Cardiologist at UCSD recommends Cardiac Thrombectomy to prevent further strokes. Neurologist recommends endovascular intervention to prevent future embolic strokes though not during an acute episode. Patient was held at UCSD ED for permissive hypertension during acute stroke. Patient complained of cough with green phlegm over the past few days; chest x-ray findings of no local infiltrate. Pathophysiology: Embolic cerebral vascular accident (CVA); stroke   Etiology/Risk factors: Risk factors include a history of transient ischemic attack, hypertension, elevated serum cholesterol, diabetes mellitus, smoking, cardiac valve diseases, anticoagulant therapy, oral contraceptive use, methamphetamine use, aneurysm, or previous stroke (Swearinger, 2012). Pathophysiology: A stroke is caused by disruption of oxygen supply to the brain by either thrombotic occlusion, embolic occlusion or cerebral hemorrhage. Most thrombotic strokes are the result of atherosclerosis. Plaque formation builds to the point of blockage in the large blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain. Most embolic strokes are caused by a cardiac emboli resulting from cardiac valve disease or atrial fibrillation. The carotid artery feeds the main blood vessels of the brain, therefore cardiogenic emboli have a direct path to the brain (Swearinger, 2012). S&S: Signs and symptoms vary depending on severity and side of brain affected. Symptoms may improve within 2 to 3 days as cerebral edema decreases. Patient may appear apathetic, irritable, disoriented, drowsy or comatose; incontinence may occur; unilateral weakness or paralysis may occur; headache, neck stiffness or rigidity may be present. The patient may have difficulty chewing or swallowing and may present with unequal or fixated pupils (Swearinger, 2012). Diagnostics: Time is critical in diagnosing the type of stroke a patient has experienced. A patient is no longer eligible for rTPA if the critical window of 3 hours from last seen normal has expired. CBC, electrolytes, blood glucose and clotting factors should be drawn immediately in order to determine eligibility for rTPA. An MRI will reveal the site of infarction and other brain structure abnormalities related to cause and effect of the CVA. An MRI may take as long as an hour to complete. While a CT scan is generally a diagnostic tool of choice in many emergency situations due to the rapid process, ischemic areas will not show in the CT imaging until they start to necrose 24 – 48 hours after the CVA (Swearinger, 2012). Complications: Complications include recurrence of CVA, paralysis, aspiration, depression, falls, and coma. Chronic left ventricle thrombus on anticoagulant: Anticoagulant therapy is prescribed to prevent increased formation of existing thrombi. Outside of the hospital environment, the anticoagulant of choice is usually warfarin because it may be taken PO. When the therapeutic range of warfarin is achieved patient’s INR will be 2.5-3.5. Cardiogenic trombi are the result of the heart’s inability to effectively ejecting blood after managed daily living, therefore the blood becomes stagnant and begins to clot (Deglin , Sanoski , & Vallerand, 2013). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3 is marked by a GFR 30-59 mL per minute (Bladh, et. al., 2013). CKD is a progressive and irreversible disorder. Aggressive management of Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus, both of which are common contributing risk factors, may slow progression. Eventually CKD can progress to end-stage renal failure (ESRD). Before development of ESRD, a person with CKD can still manage normal daily living through diet and medication (Swearinger, 2012). Diagnostic Tests, Results and Rationales: Diagnostic Tests Results Rationales MRI Several areas of restricted diffusion within right MCA region; consistent with acute embolic infarcts MRI images differentiate between acute and chronic lesions. Ischemic strokes can be identified early. Site of infection, hematoma, and cerebral edema can be viewed through MRI (Swearinger, 2012) Cerebral angiogram Right MCA stroke, right internal artery non-flow limiting dissection with associated pseudo-aneurysm; right superior trunk M3 occlusion Identify presence of hematoma in stasis of blood vessels after a rupture (Swearinger, 2012) Chest x-ray Negative for infiltrate A presence of infiltrate could indicate pneumonia or heart failure (Swearinger, 2012) Echocardiogram Severely depressed left ventricular ejection factor; apical ventricular thrombus Assess ventricular and valvular function of the heart, ejection fraction, and hemodynamic measurements (Swearinger, 2012) Cerebrovascular carotid duplex Low flow right ICA; bilateral proximal ICA right 9.5 mm, left 5.5 mm; no significant stenosis; vertebral arteries patent with antegrade flow Evaluation of carotid arteries to detect occlusions three-dimensional visualization providing information on circumference, length, and thickness of plaque volume (Swearinger, 2012)

Quantitative Research Process Essay

1. Research problem and Purpose is the area where research is needed to close the gap between knowledge and nursing practice. Purpose identifies the specific goal of the study (Burns & Grove 2011). 2. Literature Review identifies the known and the unknown of a particular study and documents what needs to be conducted. 3. Framework is the basis for the study or a theory that has been developed consisting of concepts and statements that define a particular study. 4. Research Objectives, Questions, and Hypotheses narrow the gap beteween research problem and purpose and identify the relationship between the variables and indicate the population to be studied. 5. Study Variables that are measurable, manipulated or controlled in a study. 6. Assumptions are statements that are considered true and implanted in thinking and behavior. 7. Limitations are restrictions that decrease credibility of findindgs. 8. Research design is the blueprint for the study that increases control over factors that may interfere with the desired outcomes. 9. Study Population include all elements that meet qualifications for the study and the sample are subsets of the population selected. 10. Method of Measurement is the process of assigning numbers to objects. Levels of measurement include nominal, ordinal, interval and ratio level of measurements. 11. Data collection is the systematic gathering of information important to the research purpose in which permission must be obtained for the agency where the researcher conducts the study. 12. Data analysis gives meaning to the study. Analysis techniques include descriptive and inferential analyses. 13. Research Outcomes involves examining results from the research process and considers implications for further studies. References Burns, N.,Grove, Susan. (2011). Understanding Nursing Research: Building and Evidence Based Practice. (5th ed.).Maryland Heights, MO: Elsevier Saunders.

Our Society’s Indifference to Violence Essay

Last year, while sitting in my car with a friend at the beach, I witnessed a terrible situation in which almost no one helped the woman in trouble. Although I was scared, it never occurred to me to not offer my assistance. Looking back at the situation now, I can’t help but wonder if I wasn’t there how differently the night may have turned out for an innocent girl. This one night, changed my life and probably saved hers. On this night, we sat in the car talking about the day’s events and enjoyed the calmness of the ocean and the peacefulness of the night. Although it was already dark, many other cars lined the boardwalk and several people were sitting out watching the wave’s crash on the nearby beach. For a late evening, the beach was unusually busy. We sat and talked for few minutes before noticing a commotion off in the distance. At first, it appeared to be a prank, or a fight. Initially I didn’t think it was serious and went back to enjoying the sound of the waves and the company of my friend. Soon, the distraction appeared to take on a more desperate tone, so I focused ahead on what was happening. In the distance I could see a young woman frantically running from vehicle to vehicle. I had no idea what was going on, and although I wanted to ignore it, something told me not to. I strained my eyes to see what she was doing, and to my surprise no one else seemed to notice how frantic she was. As she ran around, shouting and what looked like crying, people walked away, rolled up their windows and ignored her. She was making her way down the line of parked cars in a hurried fashion, but I still had no idea how severe the situation was. In no time, she was standing at the driver’s side window screaming. Her words were difficult to make out and my first thought was that she was drunk or on drugs. I quickly dismissed this idea when I noticed her shirt. It was covered, in what appeared to be blood. She was crying, and talking so fast I couldn’t make out what she was saying. What was clear was that she was asking, in fact, begging for help. We quickly told her to get into the backseat, away from the danger that had caused her this horrible reaction. She was trembling, and bleeding and crying. We did our best to comfort her and quickly called 911 from our cell phone. Luckily the police were nearby and responded very quickly. As we sat, and waited for the police to question us, we couldn’t help but wonder why no one had helped her. She had asked at least ten people for help, and all of them had ignored her. The situation was obviously dire and had we not called the police immediately who’s to say what would have happened to her. We waited for what seemed like an eternity until finally the police explained the situation. It seemed the girl was making her way back to the road from the beach when a man jumped out from behind the bushes and attacked her. She had been stabbed, but managed to get away before he was able to do more harm to her. Unfortunately, the unidentified man was also able to get away. After being attacked, and stabbed, she ran for help. She was obviously hurt and bleeding but no one, except us, helped her. She was quickly whisked away in an ambulance and the police assured us that her wound was minor and she would be okay. We sat for at least another hour as the helicopters, police and search dogs looked for the assailant. We learned later, on the news that the man was never found. It was so disturbing to see someone in obvious need asking for help and everyone turning their back to her. It was as if they couldn’t be bothered, or they thought she was joking. So many people were so quick to dismiss it as â€Å"not serious† just to justify their time of peace that it nearly cost someone their life. I would like to think that if the people who did not help, knew that the girl was injured they would have offered to help, but I am not sure. They were all so quick to make a judgment about the situation and assume that it was serious that this girl, who had just been stabbed, couldn’t convince them that she was hurt. Our culture is becoming one of not only increasing violence, but one of desensitization to that violence. Had we not been there to help, I can’t help but wonder if anyone would have thought to call the police, or an ambulance, or offer even basic comfort to someone in obvious need. The people that did not help that night were completely indifferent to her and were more considered with their own enjoyment that they failed to help a young girl in need. In so doing, their lack of assistance may have provided the attacker the time needed to get away. In this case, indifference led to injustice for not only this one girl, but to everyone else this man may have attacked in months and years to come. We’ll never know just how many people this lack of compassion affected. Our society has become numb to violence and that numbness has not only caused an increase of violent acts it has caused a greater degree of indifference for the victims of horrible crimes like the one I witnessed. The people on the beach that night justified their lack of action by saying they thought she was acting, or drunk. Sadly, it should never have mattered why she was screaming, bleeding and asking for help. Help should have been offered without question and without prejudice. If we don’t change this behavior, as a society, violence and indifference will only continue to grow as it has for the past several decades.

Sap Swot

Use Porter’s â€Å"5 forces† model to analyze the attractiveness of the standardized business software industry and SAP’s strengths and weaknesses. ?Threats from competitors: differentiation protects a company from competitors when customers develop brand loyalty for its products. It is very costly and time consuming for a company to implement a new ERP system. One of the examples given by the case was Chevron, which spent over $100 million and 2 years installing and getting its R/3 system operating effectively. Therefore, once customer implements SAP software for the company, it rarely changes to another competitors’ product. Power suppliers: powerful suppliers become less of a problem because the differentiated company’s strategy is directed toward the premium price it can charge and it can often pay along price increases to loyal customers. For a software company like SAP, there aren’t many suppliers except database and consultants. SAP ma de the wrong decision of outsourcing both at the early stage of its business. As a result, they lost first-hand knowledge of its customers’ emerging problems and an understanding of the changing needs of its customers.In the 1980s, SAP did not develop its own database management software package; its system was designed to be compatible with Oracle’s database management software. This had repercussions later when Oracle began to catch up technically and develop its own ERP software platform in the 2000s. ?Power buyers: differentiators are unlikely to experience problems with powerful buyers because they offer a distinctive product that commends brand loyalty. SAP focused on the largest multinational companies with revenues of at least $2. 5 billion because these companies would reap the biggest cost savings there.These companies are willing to pay the premium price as they believe the saving in time and costs outweigh the cost of implementing SAP ERP system. ?Substitut e products: substitute products are only a threat if a competitor can develop a product that satisfies a customer need similar to the need met by the differentiator’s product. In this case, SAP had faced this challenge in the 1990s when its competitors, such as Oracle, Baan, PeopleSoft, and Marcum were catching up technically and focused their resources on the needs of one or a few industries, or a particular kind of ERP module. New entrants: a new company must find way to make its product distinctive enough to be able to compete, which involves an expensive investment in building some type of distinctive competence. Although only a few global organizations have the resources to compete with SAP, the new entrants threats are still very high in the software industry as technology development and innovation by others could make SAP become obsolete one day. Sap Swot Use Porter’s â€Å"5 forces† model to analyze the attractiveness of the standardized business software industry and SAP’s strengths and weaknesses. ?Threats from competitors: differentiation protects a company from competitors when customers develop brand loyalty for its products. It is very costly and time consuming for a company to implement a new ERP system. One of the examples given by the case was Chevron, which spent over $100 million and 2 years installing and getting its R/3 system operating effectively. Therefore, once customer implements SAP software for the company, it rarely changes to another competitors’ product. Power suppliers: powerful suppliers become less of a problem because the differentiated company’s strategy is directed toward the premium price it can charge and it can often pay along price increases to loyal customers. For a software company like SAP, there aren’t many suppliers except database and consultants. SAP ma de the wrong decision of outsourcing both at the early stage of its business. As a result, they lost first-hand knowledge of its customers’ emerging problems and an understanding of the changing needs of its customers.In the 1980s, SAP did not develop its own database management software package; its system was designed to be compatible with Oracle’s database management software. This had repercussions later when Oracle began to catch up technically and develop its own ERP software platform in the 2000s. ?Power buyers: differentiators are unlikely to experience problems with powerful buyers because they offer a distinctive product that commends brand loyalty. SAP focused on the largest multinational companies with revenues of at least $2. 5 billion because these companies would reap the biggest cost savings there.These companies are willing to pay the premium price as they believe the saving in time and costs outweigh the cost of implementing SAP ERP system. ?Substitut e products: substitute products are only a threat if a competitor can develop a product that satisfies a customer need similar to the need met by the differentiator’s product. In this case, SAP had faced this challenge in the 1990s when its competitors, such as Oracle, Baan, PeopleSoft, and Marcum were catching up technically and focused their resources on the needs of one or a few industries, or a particular kind of ERP module. New entrants: a new company must find way to make its product distinctive enough to be able to compete, which involves an expensive investment in building some type of distinctive competence. Although only a few global organizations have the resources to compete with SAP, the new entrants threats are still very high in the software industry as technology development and innovation by others could make SAP become obsolete one day.

An Analysis of Macy’s

An Analysis of Macys R.H. Macy such as tea bags, the Idaho baked potato, and colored bath towels that would get the attention of people forever. Macy’s also was the first retailer that would be the first to hold a New York City liquor license which would eventually increase their sales. By 1902 the store had become so large it relocated to Herald Square with over a million square feet, becoming the largest store in the world. On December 19, 1994, Federated Department Stores Inc. (now known as Macy’s Inc.) acquired R.H. Macy & Co., creating the world’s largest premier department store company (Macy’s Inc.). Before renaming as Macy’s Inc., Federated Department Stores had 400 stores and over 157 specialty stores throughout 37 states. Macy’s is known for their Thanksgiving Day Parade that began back in 1924 as the Christmas Parade. Celebrating its 75th birthday in 2001, the tradition has long lived for 84 years and has millions of viewers. R.H. Macy and Co., took out newspaper ads that would promise â€Å"a surprise New York will never forget† and to this day the parade is a piece of America (New York City Vacations). Macy’s is now currently known worldwide as one of the largest retailers selling men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, accessories, shoes, and beauty. It also operates www.macy.com, an online website you can also purchase merchandise from. The company operates over 800 department stores and furniture stores across 45 states including the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico under the names of Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s (Macy’s Inc.). Its corporate offices are located in Cincinnati and New York. The red star that’s with the company name was adopted as Mr. Hussey’s representing a symbol of success. Macy’s Shares are traded under the symbol â€Å"M† on the New York Stock Exchange. According to Wikinvest, the stock price as of March 23, 2010 was 21.83 a share. Macy’s corporate vision reflects the â€Å"Spirit of America† in a sense that the past aspects that made our nation the way it is today are the same aspects that has shaped Macy’s in becoming such a valued industry. A belief in the promise of the future with the energy and determination to get us there. A belief that our heritage mirrors the optimism, inclusion and integrity that provide for both stability and growth. A belief that taking advantage of the right opportunities will continue to lead us to success in all that we do.

Media studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Media studies - Essay Example For instance, in Brazil, Samba is seen as music of the young working class, but in Europe and North America, it represents an exotic form of ‘world music’ popular with the educate elite. This explicitly reveals that relationship between culture and social class seems to differ broadly in the world. Thus, ‘class culture’ is a concept created by the debates about the changing structure of class (Kirby 1997: 676). Working Class Culture In the 1950s, affluent group of workers was emerging due to the escalating standards of living in the 1950s and changing working class culture nature, which created a change in political attitudes and middle class lifestyle. According to Kirby, â€Å"Sections of the working class enjoyed access to a range of cultural goods and commodities for the first time, including family cars, washing machines, televisions and holidays abroad† (1997: 676). Kirby further suggests that mass society was created by the emergence of America n cultural products including rock and roll, American movies, and juke boxes and so on, which led to gradual erosion of the working class culture. ... It also emphasized on commitment of one to political involvement and a sense of decency, which, knows right from wrong. The arrival of mass entertainment designed to appeal to all classes slowly eroded the traditional working class culture. The introduction of radio, for example, alienated the need for working-class people to meet and sing their own songs (Kirby, 1997: 677). Stereotypes of the Working Class Culture Stereotypes are based on â€Å"oversimplified and pre-conceived ideas of the characteristics of a particular, situation or group† as displayed in Oxford Dictionary, 1989, â€Å"Stereotype†. In many studies of the working class culture and stereotypes, there has been the dominance of gender. According to Dunk, stereotypes relating to gender are changing. Nonetheless, structures of patriarchy and ideology still have root in the society (Dunk, 2003: 18). Central stereotypes reflect the world concepts of dominant classes who are in a quest for self-actualization at the expense of others below their class. For example, many have stereotyped Blacks as ‘Jezebels whereby women were all perceived as promiscuous (Mankiller, 1998: 565). Alongside racial and ethnic stereotypes, gender and social class are among the most prominent features where people fall. In the society, a complex interplay exists among racial-ethnic, gender and class stereotypes (Andersen, Taylor 2008: 276). Andersen and Taylor further notes that there are gender stereotypes. This refers to stereotypes that focus on a person’s gender. According to these authors, women stereotypes tend to be more negative compared to those of men. The typical woman has been traditionally stereotyped as subservient, flighty, overly emotional, overly talkative