Natural Disasters Vs Earthquakes - 1799 Words

Earthquakes and Hurricanes are two of the costliest natural disasters that have occurred around the world. Both Japan and the United States have been unfortunate to experience many of both, with the largest and costliest of each hitting both countries. While building codes continue to help with loss of life and destruction of structures, there are still forces of nature that will destroy and damage buildings regardless of the efforts that are made. With the cost of repairs increasing the destruction that can happen with any major natural disaster will continue to increase repair costs. Both of these forms of natural disasters will continue to impact both counties in the future with lessons learned with each occurring natural disaster.†¦show more content†¦Over 26 billion dollars in damages was caused from the hurricane. Noaa.gov goes on to state â€Å"It is estimated that 1,250,000 people evacuated from parishes in southeastern and south-central Louisiana.† Due to such a large amount of people who evacuated it probably helped avoid further loss of life. Www.Recovery.com discusses with Hurricane Andrew and the recovery that took place after the event. Over $11 billion was given to Florida and Louisiana in federal aid monies to help rebuild and repair after the devastation that occurred. The Homestead Air Force Base was not rebuilt for a loss of jobs and revenue for the area. 99% of the mobile homes in Homestead were destroyed. Many people used the monies given to them from their insurance to relocate and move. Miami-Dade county had a shift in population where people where over 270,000 people moved out of that county while Palm Beach county had an increase in population in that same time frame (1990-2000) of over 100,000 people. (www.Recovery.com). While some areas it took years to recover, other areas never fully recovered as people left. In 1994 the United States had a population of 263.3 million people. On January 17, 1994 the Uni ted States had its largest earthquake based on deaths at 61 and total damage costs at $22.8 million (Abbott p.9). At 4:31 in the morning on January 17, people were woken with an earthquake that had a magnitude of 6.7. This earthquake was on a previously undocumented blind thrustShow MoreRelatedHow Are Natural Disasters Socially Constructed? Essay1333 Words   |  6 PagesWith reference to various examples, discuss how ‘natural’ disasters are socially constructed. While natural disasters such as floods, drought and hurricanes are commonly thought to occur due to environmental forces such as weather, climate and tectonic movements; a deeper investigation into the ‘disaster’ displays other contributing forces. Human factors have a large, if not equal, contribution to the occurrance and outcome of such disasters (Pelling, 2001). As Pelling (2001) argues, there isRead MoreCulture of Australia and Corporate Social Responsibility906 Words   |  4 Pagesprogramme during one of the world’s most horrifying disasters – the Sichuan earthquake which happened on 12th May 2008. BreadTalk specially created Peace Panda, a Panda Bear shaped bun with four different expressions symbolising the terror of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake as a support to help the disaster. The organisation contributed 100% of the proceeds from sale of â€Å"Peace Panda† to the Chinese Embassy and Red Cross Society’s ‘China Earthquake App eal Fund’. This Corporate Social ResponsibilityRead MoreDisaster Prevention And Reduction Strategy2761 Words   |  12 PagesGeneral: Natural disasters are inevitable and it is not possible to get full control over them. 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Test your hypothesis by experimentationRead MoreHawaii vs Florida Living1221 Words   |  5 PagesFlorida vs. Hawaii living Florida vs. Hawaii living Want to find a tropical place to live with warm breezes, sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and a laid back lifestyle? Florida and Hawaii are arguably the two most sought after tropical places to live. Being raised in Florida and now living in Hawaii I have lived the best of both worlds. Although similar upon first glance, Florida and Hawaii are also very different. How would you choose where to live? It all depends on what you are lookingRead MoreIs Nuclear Power Worth the Risk? Essay1099 Words   |  5 Pagesusage. These factors make the cost of producing electricity relatively low. Even if the cost of uranium rises, the increase in cost of electricity will be much lower. Reliable The uranium fuel is expected to last for another 100 years while coal and natural gas are limited and are expected to vanish soon. Moreover, different to traditional renewable sources of energy like solar and wind which depend on the weather condition in producing electricity, nuclear energy can be produced from nuclear power plantsRead MoreBusiness Continuity Plans And The Disaster Recovery Plan1580 Words   |  7 Pages(BCP) and the Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) are twin resources derived to preserve vital organization operations when facing an unsuspecting disaster. A disaster can be either natural or man-made. Natural disasters include floods, fires, earthquakes, and lightning strikes. Some of the more common man-made disasters are acts of terrorism, thefts, office violence, and sabotage. However, for business any action that stops or reduces productivity, it is conceived as being a disaster. For example ifRead MoreII-The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster The year following the triple disaster of Fukushima was900 Words   |  4 PagesII-The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster The year following the triple disaster of Fukushima was a year of self-assessment, self-criticism and adjustment. It is a model of governance that has been highly criticized in Japan. Of course, to avoid panic, the Government had decided not to warn people of the risks they could incur, when it became probable, a few days after the disaster, that the heart of the reactors had melted. But the government itself was misinformed, and oversight agencies thatRead MoreWalcott Vs Kincaid : Views On Colonialism1443 Words   |  6 PagesWalcott vs Kincaid: Views on Colonialism Aspects of both Kincaid’s and Walcott’s literature pieces show great comparison with each other along with a few contrasting ideas. â€Å"A Far Cry from Africa† and A Small Place both demonstrate the movement from colonialism to post-colonialism and describe how the characters feel and are reacting to the major change. Walcott’s poem â€Å"The Sea is History† compares to A Small Place in the way that both pieces of literature deal with history being bias towards theRead MoreNuclear vs. Petroleum (Energy)950 Words   |  4 PagesDillon G. Nuclear Energy vs. Conventional Petroleum Energy Through out the history of the United states the main source of energy has been conventional Oil, Coal, and gas energy, or better known as Conventional petroleum energy. However as the demand for electricity sky rockets the pollution produced from the traditional fossil fuel burning plants is reaching dangerous levels. Gas, coal and oil burning power plants are as of now responsible for half of America’s air pollution (tripod/online)

Gender Wage Gap And Focus On The Discrimination Against...

Title: Equal Pay for Women Purpose: The purpose is to highlight the gender wage gap and focus on the discrimination against working women Thesis: I intend to assert that women deserve to be paid as much as men for the same job by the same employer. Introduction: l. Working for the same employer and in the same kind of job in the US, if we look at averages, women get paid merely 79 cents against every single dollar paid to their male coworkers. A. This indeed is an alarming figure noting that women have come a long way in attaining education at par with men and are extremely competitive in every field that they are working. It is to be noted that 79 cents are calculated on an average basis. B. The actual figures for each different field of work are different and at least in one category; women get paid no more than 67 cents for every dollar paid for an equivalent job to men. C. I have researched relevant data and material, and I am convinced beyond doubts that it is true that gender gap exists, and it is time to do away with it. ll. Not only the percentage of women is low in many job categories, their wages as compared to men doing the same job are also lower. A. An example of their percentage share of jobs is 4% in the natural resources, construction, and maintenance jobs category and as noted earlier, and I have verified it from credible sources that their wages in this category stand at 67 c as compared to a dollar paid to men. B. I have cross checked these figures atShow MoreRelatedThe Gender Wage Gap And Focus On The Discrimination Against Working Women1350 Words   |  6 Pagespurpose is to highlight the gender wage gap and focus on the discrimination against working women Thesis: I intend to assert that women deserve to be paid as much as men for the same job by the same employer. Introduction For the same employer and for the same job in the US, on an average, women get 79 cents for every dollar earned by their male colleagues. This indeed is an alarming figure noting that women have come a long way inRead MoreGender Wage Gap in America1565 Words   |  7 PagesThe Gender Wage Gap in America The gender wage gap has been around since women began having jobs and careers. Though in the beginning the gender wage gap was purely do to discrimination by social stereotypes, now it has become more complicated than that. The issue today has evolved into a complex issue which combines our American culture with business economics. As a result, some are skeptical of the issue and some are very adamant in their beliefs. The issue encompasses not only gender stereo typesRead MoreThe Gender Pay Gap1639 Words   |  7 PagesThe Gender Pay Gap PROBLEM Introduction The pay gap between men and women has fallen quite dramatically over the past 30 years though a sizeable gap still remains, but this headline figure masks some less positive developments in recent years. We are used to each generation of women making progress relative to the one before, but this process has slowed slightly with the better than the previous one(Centre Piece Summer 2006). The gender pay gap measures the earning differences betweenRead MoreGender Inequality During The Civil Rights Movement1480 Words   |  6 Pagesare the same† (Karr 81). Socially constructed gender roles have led to gender inequality throughout society, but sex-based discrimination is most prevalent in the workplace. During the Civil Rights Movement, gender inequality was targeted with a number of movements that promoted equality, including the Equal Pay Act of 1963. This Act requires equal pay for equal work, which calls attention to the unethical practice of paying female employees less in wages than male employees for the same job. It hasRead MoreGender Wage Gap And Gender Inequality Essay1519 Words   |  7 PagesGender Wage Gap Lydia Ogles November 2016 Introduction/Abstract The gender wage gap has been a nationwide problem since women were able to enter the workforce. Women have begun to speak out more about the issue and evaluate what they can do to change the industries and how they personally present themselves to help this change. Currently there is a wide range of opinions on this issue, with some saying it does not exist while others think it will ruin the economy if not fixed immediately. This makesRead MoreGender Discrimination At The Workplace1749 Words   |  7 PagesMatthew Anders Prof. Bross College Writing November 14, 2014 Gender Discrimination in The Workplace In recent years, the issue of gender equality in the workplace and equal pay has been under serious debate. Although there has been significant improvement since when women were first able to work and equal opportunity laws were created, there is still some room for more improvement. The federal government has made laws over the years such as The Civil Rights act, Equal Pay Act and Family andRead MoreGender Wage Gap : Discrimination Or Misinformation1699 Words   |  7 PagesGender Wage Gap: Discrimination or Misinformation In 2014, female full-time workers made only 79 cents for every dollar earned by men, a gender wage gap of 21% according to IWPR Org or Institute for Women’s Policy Research. There is no debate that in the past women have been discriminated against when it came to compensation and wages in the workforce which led to the enactment of the Equal Pay Act of 1963. This a federal law signed by John F Kennedy attempting to amend wage disparity based on sexRead MoreThe Gender Wage Gap Within Society1281 Words   |  6 Pagescounterparts. The gender wage gap has been a real and prevalent thing in our society. Even in the present, women are inclined to get lower salaries than men throughout the world, and most importantly the United States where the constitution says â€Å"all men are created equal.† All salaries are on a weekly basis and percentages are cents a woman earns per dollar a man earns. Though many are currently working to fix the situation, there is much we can do as individuals to stop discrimination in the work forceRead MoreGender And Gender Equality746 Words   |  3 Pagesâ€Å"Behind every great man, there is a great woman.† Gender discrimination is portrayed negatively toward a person, especially of a woman because of her sexual identity. It differentiates from workplace, such as getting less paid for the same profession, to violent crime being committed. On a worldly scale, women are still victims of abuse, rape and violence in modern day societies. Even though there are laws against the discrimination of women, it is really a concerning issue and everyone should beRead MoreLack Of Gender Discrimination On The Workplace1203 Words   |  5 Pages There are numerous individuals who regard gender inequality in the workplace as a myth; however, many companies display an immense resistance to enforce laws that will protect their female employees from unfair and unlawful discrimination. These prejudice actions made against women are b ased on gendered stereotypes that ultimately place women at a disadvantage. These â€Å" Gendered stereotypes, shared at the societal level that describe what men and women are known to be like, influences hiring processes

Dining Plan Proposal Free Essays

Project 2 – Drexel Dining Plan Proposal As a freshmen and an international student at Drexel University, most of my free time is taken up in becoming accustomed to a new country, a new city, and to the culture of Drexel University. Despite attending an International private school back in Delhi and despite having traveled the world, it is only normal that I find the transition from living back home to living at Drexel University, a difficult one. Getting familiar with the system of being a college student in general is an added struggle. We will write a custom essay sample on Dining Plan Proposal or any similar topic only for you Order Now And at first though, most non-vegetarians may not take this into consideration due to a plentiful amount of non-vegetarian food available, but I can tell you from personal experience, food is one of the main factors contributing to homesickness. The day -to-day food available on Drexel’s campus is not varied or appetizing enough for vegetarians, especially international vegetarian students. Each student who purchases the meal plan can dine at certain designated locations on campus. The available dining options on the Drexel University campus consist of the following: a mini cafe in the main building, Ross Commons Take 3, Creese Cafe, Chick-fil-a, Currito, Subway, Kelly Deli, Southern Tsunami Sushi, and Starbucks. This may sounds like many options, but that does not overlook quality, or the fact that vegetarians may not have as many options as those who eat meat. As Drexel has ascended in its rankings, so have the number of students from different states and different countries. This year itself, the percentage of international students at Drexel University went up about twenty-eight percent and is expected to grow next year. (Facts and Figures) A student that purchases any meal plans spends an average amount of around five thousand two hundred dollars throughout his or her university education. A relatively large percentage of these students, whether from the states or international students, are vegetarian as one of the most frequently asked questions on Drexel’s dining website. Drexel Campus Dining) I myself know up to ten vegetarians in the freshmen year itself. The number one complaint I tend to hear, or coincidentally eavesdrop on, in the dining center is about the food. According to my survey these complaints are usually voiced by international students and sometimes by vegetarian, American citizens. I also concluded from my survey that those who dislike the food and live nearby do not feel the need to complain as homemade food and favorite re staurant visits with the parents are just a train ride away. I summarized my issues with the available dining service at Drexel by carrying out confidential surveys of a sample of students who eat at the Handschumacher Dining Center. Of course my survey was favorably given out to international students and it consisted of open-ended questions that cover a few valid issues I personally wanted to know more about. On an average, the survey revealed international students dissatisfaction with the amount of vegetarian or vegan food available at the Drexel dining locations. Although the survey revealed complaints students had about the staff, quality of food, and such, I chose to concentrate on the vegetarian food options. Students explicitly expressed their concern with the fact that vegan food was often confused with vegetarian food. A few students stated their issue with days where more of a variety of vegetarian food was made and other days where more vegan food was made, always more options of one over the other. Of course, non-vegetarian food always seems to be plentifully available. One student wrote on her survey, â€Å" although there is a pasta station that is vegetarian on the whole, the options are very limited. Vegetarians at the dining center can only eat pasta, on certain days very bland vegan wraps are available, and French fries, and the same vegetarian fried rice. â€Å" Another student said, â€Å" the passport section hardly ever has vegetarian or vegan food, which is sad because so many international students are vegetarian and we have to make do with salad and pasta every single day. To this I would like to add an observation I made at the Dining Center and Subway: most of the times, the staff uses the same gloves to touch vegetarian food as they do meat. This is very disturbing to me as I am vegetarian for religious reasons and cannot technically even have meat touched to my food. When I asked students about the other Dining options, Starbucks and the cafe in the main building were immediately opted out of consideration as â€Å"dining. † This leaves the unhealthy options of Ross Commons cheese Pizza and Chick-Fil-A fries. Two other options are Creese and Subway. The two of these are relatively healthier options, but again Subway has only one veggie patty. And Creese Cafe serves only two to three options for vegetarian paninis. But out of all the times I have been to Creese, they are out of one ingredient or the other, which limits the vegetarian options further. For example, when I asked for the Capri panini at Creese, I was told they were out of basil and hence, could not make that panini for me. Out of all the dining options Currito landed up being a favorite for vegetarians on my survey because of its many vegetarian varieties. Even though Currito is one stall that serves good vegetarian options, what about the rest? Vegetarian students I surveyed unanimously agree upon the conclusion that there is not enough variety out of the entire dining service on campus for vegetarian students. It think it is safe to say that a certain percentage of Drexel University students is dissatisfied with the vegetarian dining options on campus. I know I am. Yet, these students are paying for the dining services the same price as any non-vegetarian student. I propose a solution, or many solutions. Firstly, I think the staff should be educated on how to handle food for vegetarian or vegan students. For example, they should start with using different gloves and utensils for meat. Second, I believe the dining hall would be a good start for more vegetarian options as hundreds of students dine here each day. For example, the staff can make sure they do not compromise on the food for vegans or vegetarians. Both these categories should have a plentiful amount. Also, the passport section that serves international food can make sure they have one vegetarian alternative to each non-vegetarian dish they make. And the Asian food section can start searching into more feasible Asian recipes for both vegans and vegetarians. Coming to the options besides the dining center, it may be difficult to open more dining options on campus, so instead each service can find ways to increase its creativity and variety with vegetarian food. Currito can find more than just tofu to substitute meat, or they can cook the tofu in different ways and serve it. Chick-fil-A can look into making breakfast sandwiches. Subway can create more than just the veggie patty, or it can give more vegetable options to choose from. Ross Commons can start serving pizza with diverse vegetarian toppings. Such minor changes may go a long way. This idea may seem new, but it has been done before. Every time a fast food chain opens in different countries, it is altered to cater to the taste and customers of that country. I feel like Drexel should look into doing the same with its chains opened on campus as Drexel is an international University and the vegetarian population deserves first-rate food. (Vegetarian Subs Different Countries, Different McDonalds) (A Picture of other Asian recipes that can be made) How to cite Dining Plan Proposal, Essay examples

Collectively Management Accounting Responsive Decision Making

Question: Discuss about the Collectively Management Accounting for Responsive Decision Making. Answer: Introduction Management accounting is used by the members of the organisation for the purpose of decision making at various levels of management so that management can exercise its control over costs as well as regulate the use of its resources and reduce their wastage, to reap its benefits in the long term. Management accounting might not be legally binding like financial accounting but its increasing popularity in the management world has helped it climb through various ladders of success. Management accounting is a process which uses varied techniques like budgetary control, marginal costing and standard costing and processes the data furnished by these techniques via communication, and hence leaving no ambiguity in setting standards for the employees and therefore motivating them to achieve the desired results. The report gives the understanding of management accounting and its importance in the Victor Reactor Inc. Management accounting Management accounting as a part of process of management focuses on the aspects of an organisation which adds value to its processes by achieving the effective utilization of resources of an organization in dynamic, flexible and in context to competitiveness within and outside the organization. It comprises of both accounting of costs and measurement of performance. It contains all the data which is collected to help in arriving at the decision to be made in production. Importance of management accounting in manufacturing entity For a manufacturing entity, firstly it provides the relevant Information for making decision related to production and aids in planning the manufacturing process, secondly it assists the management in formulating operational activities, thirdly it synchronizes and motivates the managers and other employees towards achievement of organizational goals, fourthly it helps in measuring the performance of activities, managers and employees within the organization and lastly it assess the companys competitive position and provides direction to managers in achieving competitiveness for long run in the Industry. Differences between management accounting and financial accounting Point of difference Management accounting Financial Accounting Users It provides information only for the internal users i.e. management and employees It provides information for both internal and external users i.e. stakeholders Purpose To provide information to management in order to facilitate decision making To draft financial statements to users.` Accuracy of information It provides with a set of estimated data based on certain assumptions It provides accurate data Obligation to prepare It is not obliged by law and conducted to facilitate decision making Preparation of financial accounting reports are mandated by law Frequency of preparation Depends upon the request of management These reports are prepared periodically Confidentiality of information The results of managerial accounting comprise information that is confidential and purposed to be used within the entity. These contain information that is purposed to be public in nature Classifications of costs (types, behaviour, function and relevance) with examples. Classification of costs in terms of types Direct costs: These are the costs which are incurred for the benefit of one specific cost object. This type of cost is directly traceable to a product, service or department. Examples of direct costs are material cost and labour costs. Indirect costs: These are the costs which are incurred for the benefit of more than one cost objects. This type of cost cannot be directly traceable to a product, service or department. These are also known as overheads cost. Examples of indirect costs are: electricity, maintenance costs, rent etc which are benefiting two or more departments or products/services. Classification of costs in terms of behaviour Cost behaviour means how a cost will change with changes in the level of manufacturing activity. Following are the types: Fixed Costs: These are the costs which in total will remain the constant for a specific period of time and over a relevant range of output of production. Fixed costs per unit keeps on declining as the production output increases. Examples of fixed costs are: Rent, rates, insurance and depreciation etc. Variable Costs: These are the costs which in total will tend to change as the output varies. These costs are directly proportional to volume of production. Variable cost per unit remains constant while the total of variable cost keeps on increasing with the increase in production volume. Examples of variable costs are: direct material cost, direct labour costs etc. Classification of costs in terms of function Classification of costs by function which are categorized in accordance to activity which is performed in each function. All such costs of a manufacturing entity may be classified into manufacturing costs, marketing costs, administrative costs, and financing costs which are defined below: Manufacturing costs: These are the costs which are associated with the production of a product. These are the total of direct materials costs, direct labour costs, and costs of factory overhead. Marketing costs: Theseare the costs which are incurred in advertising, promoting and marketing a product or service which in turn contributes to selling efficiency of the product/service. Administrativecosts: Theseare the costs whichare incurred for administration of several departments within the organization. These includes costs incurred in directing,monitoring,and in conduct of operation ofanentityand also costs likeremuneration paidto managers and employees. Financingcosts: Theseare the costs which are incurred in acquiring funds for the operation of an entity. This primarily comprises the interest costs which the company pays on acquired funds. It also includes the cost of credit which is extended by an entity to its customers Classification of costs in terms of relevance Classification of costs in terms of its relevance to planning, monitoring, and contribution to decision-making can be briefly illustrated as below: Relevant costs: These are the costs which serve as a pertinent factor in making a relative decision. A cost is relevant for the decision if the cost in question is respondent to the decision under consideration. These costs are appropriate to a specific management decision. These costs are estimated future costs and differ under alternative course of action for a specific decision. A relevant cost can be fixed or variable in nature. For example: Suppose for a company which is in a process to decide on production of a product either manually or through machines, relevant costs would be cost of labour and machine cost respectively. Irrelevant costs: Theseare the costs which are not affected by the actions of management. These costs are called as irrelevant costs as these do not influence the decision of management and hence should not be considered in a decision-making analysis. A good example of such type of cost is sunk costs, these costs are the costs which have already been incurred and are now irrevocable like cost of survey which has already been made to judge if the product has a market in the industry or not. Variance analysis Variance can be termed as a deviation of actual cost from the cost which is set as a standard also known as the standard cost while the standard costing act as a measurement benchmark for determination of variances which helps in evaluating the performances Variance analysis means the process of analysing variances so as to determine the causes behind the deviations. The variances can be favourable or unfavourable, when the actual performance is better than the standard performance, it is termed as a favourable variance and when the actual performance is below the standard performance, we call it a unfavourable variance. The variances are measured broadly keeping in mind the various types of costs and the revenue. On the basis of costs: Variances are measured for the following cost categories: Direct costs i.e. the Direct Material and Direct Labour costs and the Indirect costs i.e. the variable and fixed overheads Direct Material Variances and Direct Labour Variances could occur due to price at which material is procured or the labour is employed and the quantity usage of material and labour in production of the product. Variances measuring the price differences in material and labour costs are termed as Direct Material and Direct labour price variances. While the variances measuring the usage variances in material and labour quantity are termed as Direct Material and labour usage or efficiency variances. While analysing the variances, the commonly measured variances also include labour idle time variance which measures the idle time labour cost deviation from the estimated standard. Similarly to measure the deviation in fixed and variable overhead similar concept is used. Variances measuring the price differences in spending of variable and fixed overheads are termed as Variable and fixed overhead price variances while the variances measuring the efficiency of these overheads are termed as variable and fixed overhead efficiency variances. While the calculation of indirect cost variance is similar to that of direct cost variances, the interpretations of these variances differ. Deviation in sales revenue are interpreted using the sales price variance which measures the deviation in actual and standard price of the product and the sales volume variance which measures the deviation in actual and standard volume of the product sold. Problems and limitations that need to be kept in mind while conducting a variance analysis. While the variance indicates the deviations from a standard which is an expected estimate, it does not indicate management on what actually went wrong. There could be various possible reasons for the occurrence of variances. For instance, an unfavourable direct materials efficiency variance could be a result of poor design of the finished product and/or process of manufacturing, problems associated with the materials supplied in terms quality or availability, carelessness by employees owing to improper training etc. Another factor that further complicates the analysis is the inter-relationship among the variances. For instance, due to purchase of inferior quality of materials, a favourable materials price variance would occur along with an adverse materials efficiency variance. It could also result in an adverse labour efficiency variance as it may slow down workers. Finally, variance analysis tells management if the entity has performed better or worse than the planned performance, but it does not indicate on the intensity of the situation. For example, suppose the material price variance for a material was adverse, it may be possible that if the procurement department had not taken various measures such as placing larger order to curtail the adversity of rising material costs, the situation could have been much worse. Operational budgets and its advantages Budget is a statement formally prepared to set aside the financial resources in conduct of specific activities for a given frame of time. An operational budget is the statement which sets aside the estimated financial resources for various operations in an entity. Following could be the various types of operational budgets: Production Budget: This budget as a control tool helps in providing the details about what should be the quantity of production for a particular and when should the quantity be produced. Since inability to meet customers demand could have adverse impact on revenue while keeping excess inventory would cost an extra carrying cost, so the production budget helps in maintaining the balance. Raw Material Purchase Budget: It states the quantity of raw material to be purchased in order to meet the production needs and the timings on which the prescribed quantity is purchases and also to strike a balance between supply and demand. The Direct Labour Budget: It provides details about the production hours which would be required along with the wage rates commensurate to the skills of the type of labour in order to produce the desired units of output. This will also include all other labour related costs and helps to monitor the efficiency and cost effectiveness of labour cost. The Overhead Budget: It summarizes the cost and timing of overhead expenditure that will be required during a particular frame of time for which the budget is being prepared. This budget will help to control and monitor the spend of various fixed and variable overheads and thus helps in enhancing the profitability of the product. The Cash receipts and disbursement budget: The receipt budget which would depend upon the timing of sales and collection from debtors. It is prepared considering the credit period in case of credit sales while cash is received immediately in case of cash sale, it also considers other sources that may generate cash receipts during the period of budget The disbursement budget like the receipt budget depends upon the timing of purchases and payment to creditors. It is prepared considering the credit period in case of credit purchases while cash is paid immediately in case of cash purchase, it also considers other sources that may require outflow of cash during the period of budget These cash budgets help us determine the expected inflow, outflow and balance of cash and which would further enable the management to determine its cash needs. The Profit Plan or pro-forma income statement and the pro-forma Balance sheet: It provides an indication of the level of income that can be expected while the balance sheet provides managers with an idea of financial position of the entity Other advantages of budgeting Budgeting process with specified business timelines tends managers to focus their attention in operating in a more disciplined and controlled environment. Budgeting enhances important principles of how an entity would communicate and coordinating among various operations and departments of an organization. Budgets provide a roadmap for future actions. Conclusion and Recommendation It can be concluded that collectively management accounting serves as a tool for prompt and responsive decision making, through its various tools and techniques as discussed in the assignment above it helps the senior level of management in decision making. While we classify costs on the basis of our requirement, it can be in terms of their behaviour, relevance or interconnectivity to various operations and departments. Standard costing and Variance analysis further assists in analyzing the results to aid decision making. Budgeting also serves as a control tool which helps the management to further take and compare outputs of variance analysis, it also provides data inputs to conduct variance analysis and estimating the budgeted income position and asset position of the entity. References Ducu C,Enache T,Stefan P, 2016. Managerial Accounting Vs Financial Accounting In The ihttps://fse.tibiscus.ro/anale/Lucrari2010/067.%20Ducu%20Corina.pdf [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. Fabozzi, F. and Drake, P. (2009). Capital Markets, Financial Management and Investment Management. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons,p.244-279 Reilly,F. and Brown,K. (2012). Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management. Texas: Reilly Brown,p.315-390 Surani C, 2016, Management Accounting Practices And The Role Of Management Accountant: Evidence From Manufacturing Companies Throughout Yogyakarta, Indonesia ,[online] Available at: https://sibresearch.org/uploads/2/7/9/9/2799227/riber_b13-243_616-626.pdf [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. com, 2016. Classification of Manufacturing Costs and Expenses, [online] Available at: https://www.microbuspub.com/pdfs/chapter4.pdf [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. Ram,V and Bala,S. 2012, Strategic Financial Management. Chennai: Snow white prime knowledge series, p266-298. Accounting-financial-tax.com, 2016,. Cost Classification All Type , [online] Available at: https://accounting-financial-tax.com/2009/10/cost-classifications-all-types/ [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. org, 2016,Standard Costs and Variance Analysis. [online]. Available at: https://www.cmaontario.org/portals/6/Media/CaseExam/Standard%20Cost%20And%20Variance%20Analysis.pdf [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. plu.edu, 2016, Operational budget, [online]. Available at: https://community.plu.edu/~mgtacctg/operational_budgeting.htm [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. org, 2016, Budgetary control, [online]. Available at: https://www.fao.org/docrep/w4343e/w4343e05.htm [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016]. org, (2016). The Advantage and Disadvantage of Budgeting, [online]. Available at: https://www.bifa.org/library/freight-management/finance/budgeting/the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-budgeting [Accessed 26 Mar. 2016] Black, F. (1972). Capital market equilibrium with restricted borrowing. Journal of Business, p 344498

Romanesque Architecture vs. Gothic Architecture free essay sample

Whether it was in its distinctive windows, unique exterior and interior designs, or any of the other myriad architectural features, Romanesque and Gothic architecture are identifiable if one can distinguish the two types of styles. It was the age of the development of Romanesque and Gothic Architecture where the battle began to reach greater and higher achievements. During this new development a new task was held that gave a new appreciation for light, during the medieval age many structures were built sheltered and isolated from the world outside.The inside of these buildings would seem dark and on some occasions moldy. With the development of new structures the idea for these new Gothic structures was to make a more pleasant place to be. By allowing higher and grander windows it allowed more light in these usual dark places, it removed many issues with mold and eliminated the use of open doors on raining days. We will write a custom essay sample on Romanesque Architecture vs. Gothic Architecture or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It was a great achievement for the new structures and it was a feature that remained with them throughout time. However many were not so focused on the idea of an open and airy concept.The Romanesque buildings are known for their straight and boxy appearance. In Roman structures the walls were large and thick and had to create smaller windows as to not weaken to walls with large gaps. The Civic Hall in Massa Marittima, Italy has a very popular boxy appearance, and is limited on large or thick windows. By making these windows lean and tall it allowed for light while maintain a strong and sturdy fortress. It was a trait that allowed for simplicity and convenience for both styles of building and was in time considered the norm for both of their establishments.To consider these fortresses and churches as the norm could be understatement for such ginormous master pieces. With gothic structures it is very easy to identify typical features for these unique buildings, everyone can say the vaulted ceilings and large towers, but it’s the small detail that makes it all flow together. Gargoyles have been apart Gothic structures since the beginning being both practical and intimidating. Originally their use was to sprout out water from the roof tops and to flow them to the street below, but for unreligious citizens it was to motivate them in to the safety of church.With a world filled with fear and superstitions it was the perfect way to lure people into the safety with the stone cold glares. (Morris) By allowing such a positive and protective presence in the center it draws your attention away from the demons above; allowing for an excellent way to attractive its citizens to the safety of insideAlthough in stocking fear was a tactful tool, the Romanesque style of detailed and religious art was also effective. Romanesque buildings wanted to tell stories, similar to Gothic structures, with their buildings to let all citizens see the religious stories chiseled in stone.Many of the buildings had carved in stories that were Biblical in subject and included scenes such as the Creation and the Fall of Man (Notre). The tympanum on Vezelay Abbey, Burgundy, France (Vezelay), is a perfect example to fully grasp the detail and message of Romanesque exterior art. It shows the depictions of people lining up to enter heaven all facing Christ who remains in the center. Both themes were inclined in showing stories about the religion, and both succeeded leaving behind hundreds of tales o f a salvation and resurrection that will forever be marked in stone.In Gothic buildings were built with an attachment of ribbed vaults. Ribbed vaults were the most common vaults used in Gothic structures, with high vaulted ceiling it’s one of its most popular traits in their buildings. An example of these remarkable ceilings can be seen in the Bourges Cathedral in Bourges, France; this memorable Cathedral shows the perfect use of ribbed vaults. These vaulted ceilings were constructed for weight to be distributed throughout the structure and toward the ground, however an almost identical trait followed through Romanesque architecture.It was in ingenious ideas that in time lead to giving both themes an extraordinary way to distribute the buildings weight. However vaulted ceilings were not the only tools that helped support these old buildings. In Gothic structures pointed arches had become a very popular and common trait amongst their buildings. With the Gothic’s pointed arch it allowed for more height development since most of the pressure would return to the ground. The reason in Gothic structures it was common to see such height in their towers, because a majority of the weight was resting on the surface.While in Romanesque arches were rounded, mostly commonly known as a semi-circle arch. A very popular place to see these arches is at the Pont du Gard in Roman Gual. The semi-circle arches allowed for many gallons of water to flow to Rome, with the support of these strong arches it has been able to remain standing even through all these year. It is hard to imagine words to describe these structural themes. These architectural beauties have inspired and entertained millions throughout the world.Sending a message of power and wealth to all who look upon it, with so much alike Romanesque and Gothic will remain different from others and themselves. From the ribbed ceilings, unique window differences, majestic features, and innovative structural results. These great themes will live forever not just in physical form but in our imaginations, fully understanding the art like this cannot just be built over and over again. Bibliography page Notre-Dame De Paris. Notre-Dame De Paris. N. p. , n. d.

Find the Anode and Cathode of a Galvanic Cell

Find the Anode and Cathode of a Galvanic Cell ​Anodes and cathodes are the endpoints or terminals of a device that produces electrical current. Electrical current runs from the positively charged terminal to the negatively charged terminal. The cathode is the terminal that attracts cations, or positive ions. To attract the cations, the terminal must be negatively charged. Electrical current is the amount of charge that passes a fixed point per unit time. The direction of the current flow is the direction in which a positive charge flows. Electrons are negatively charged and move in the opposite direction of the current. In a galvanic cell, the current is produced by connecting an oxidation reaction to a reduction reaction in an electrolyte solution. Oxidation and reduction reactions or redox reactions are chemical reactions involving a transfer of electrons from one atom in the reaction to another. When two different oxidation or reduction reactions are connected electrically, a current is formed. The direction depends on the type of reaction taking place at the terminal.Reduction reactions involve the gain of electrons. Electrons are needed to fuel the reaction and pull these electrons from the electrolyte. Since electrons are attracted to the reduction site and current flows opposite the flow of electrons, current flows away from the reduction site. Since current flows from the cathode to the anode, the reduction site is the cathode.Oxidation reactions involve the loss of electrons. As the reaction progresses, the oxidation terminal loses electrons to the electrolyte. The negative charge moves awa y from the oxidation site. The positive current moves towards the oxidation site, against the flow of electrons. Since current flows to the anode, the oxidation site is the anode of the cell. Keeping Anode and Cathode Straight On a commercial battery, the anode and cathode are clearly marked (- for anode and for cathode). Sometimes only the () terminal is marked. On a battery, the bumpy side is () and the smooth side is (-). If youre setting up a galvanic cell, youll need to keep the redox reaction in mind to identify the electrodes. Anode: positively charged terminal - oxidation reactionCathode: negatively charged terminal - reduction reactionThere are a couple mnemonics that can help you remember the details.To remember the charge: Caions are attracted to the Cahode (the t is a plus sign)To remember which reaction occurs at which terminal: An Ox and Red Cat - Anode Oxidation, Reduction Cathode Remember, the concept of electrical current was defined back before scientists understood the nature of positive and negative charges, so it was set up for the direction a () charge would move. In metals and other conductive materials, its actually the electrons or (-) charges that move. You can think of it as holes of positive charge. In an electrochemical cell, its just as likely cations will move as anions (in fact, both are probably moving at the same time).

Ethical Dilemma Global Business and Emerging Economies Case Study

Ethical Dilemma Global Business and Emerging Economies - Case Study Example The biggest five emerging economies are referred too as the BRICS. The five members of the BRICS are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. There is a dark side to the globalization movement. It seems as if ever since this movement began the rich have been getting richer, but the poor are still struggling to survive. The continent that has suffered the most since the start of the movement is Africa particularly the Sub-Saharan region. Most people in Africa are living on income of less than $1 day and they do not have enough money to eat properly everyday. While people in Africa are dying of starvation, the opposite occurs in Western countries such as the United States where there is so much abundance of food that 33.8% of the population suffers from obesity (Cdc, 2011). Developed economies sometimes are at disadvantage in certain aspects such as cost of living. In the United States health costs are skyrocketing, but in many emerging economies healthcare is a universal right and the government pays for all medical costs. In many of these countries there are no applications of patents which helps keep the price of prescription drugs low. Overall the standards of living in developing economies are much higher than in emerging economies. The United Nations should do more in order to transfer the wealth better among the world’s nations. ... ndustries such as the pharmaceutical industry can impose new ethical regulation to raise the bar and make industry concessions to accelerate the process towards redemption to certain patients. For instance the HIV/AIDS epidemic requires the industry to impose a cero profit policy. All drugs and research and development for this disease will be treated as if the corporations were non-profit organizations. All countries across the world will amend their tax codes to provide credits for R&D for HIV/AIDS as well as tax deductions and credits based on distribution quotas for HIV/AIDS medicines. There are other alternative solutions to help alleviate the imbalance distribution of wealth worldwide. A way for the developed nations to directly help emerging economies achieve growth is by a direct transfer of funds. The 54 developed economies of the world will impose a 5% redistribution tax based on the gross domestic product of each country. The money collected from the tax will be distribute d to the emerging countries that fall in the lower 25% percentile of gross domestic product per capital among the emerging economies. The 39 poorest countries in the world will receive the economic incentive from the collection of the tax. Aggressively investing in emerging economies can help improve the standard of living of a lot of people. This strategy seems like a socially responsible tactic, but businesses cannot forget that their goal is to make money. A business person should choose the option that makes more economic sense when implementing international expansion strategies. Investing in a foreign developed economy has a lower risk than investing in an emerging economy. A way to facilitate foreign investment in emerging economies, while at the same minimizing the risk of

Discuss the implications of globalisation for both rich and poor Essay

Discuss the implications of globalisation for both rich and poor countries - Essay Example United Nation Development Program (UNDP) is concerned that inequalities and poverty level have increased in poor countries. UNDP indicates the major cause is global trade and finance system (World Bank, 2000). Another implication of globalization for the rich and the poor countries is that there is increased global protest and chaos. For instance, global trade means that investors from different countries have access to rich or poor countries thus increasing the chances of insecurity and drug trafficking. Security is important to poor and rich countries. While most countries join together to improve trade, in some cases insecurity is experienced. Likewise, illegal transactions have been reported for example importing of guns and elephant trunks which is mostly done by the residents of the countries (David, 2001). Drug trafficking like cocaine among other hard drugs is a threat to the countries residents especially to the youths since in most cases the drugs are sold to the youths thu s making a country lowers the economic status. This is based on the fact that young people support a country with the required output in the factories and in plantations among other areas. The rules and ideologies of globalization are that free trade is allowed, deregulation, privatization and structural adjustment which has left the poor countries residents to be homeless, landless and hungry. Since investors from other countries look for cheap labor, no training when recruiting new resources making the matter worse in poor countries. This means that access to health facilities, education, water, sanitation among other things is not easy thus resulting to negative effects on the productivity in such countries (Pritchett, 1998). On the other hand, the rich countries are not affected but rather they keep on increasing their wealth. For example, from 1986 to 2000, the total US wealth that was controlled by people increased from $7.2 trillion to $27 trillion. This

Defense Budget Cuts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Defense Budget Cuts - Essay Example The defense cuts are likely to cause irreparable harm not only on the capabilities of institutions but also to the men and women in uniform. However, compared to education, healthcare and green economy, spending within the military is a deprived basis of creating jobs1. Pollin and Heidi show that $1 billion investment in clean energy, education and healthcare generates between 50 % and 140% more jobs compared to similar amount spent by the pentagon2. Nevertheless, it is impossible to separate concept of economic security from that of national security since they are both dependent on each other because the current threats to US economic and national security are identical3. Therefore, regardless of whether the US remains a super power or not, the country has to invest in military capabilities to respond to these threats. Although maintaining robust defense is essential, the prevailing economic challenges to the US pose a unique challenge to defense budget; hence, the need for the def ense sector to rise to the challenges of the turbulent times. Although many defense experts believe that the defense sector requires extra funding in modernizing its weapons, they mostly fall short of quantifying certain shortfalls with recent comparisons targeting defense budget with regard to the GDP4. With regard to capability, depth and conventional power, the US military remains the dominant force in the world, which is also true to the size of the nation’s defense budget. For instance, the country’s defense spending is 7 times that of the second leading nation; moreover, the US spent 29 times more compared to the 6 rogue states of Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Libya, Syria and Sudan, in addition, US defense budget is greater than the GDP of these nations5. Therefore, it is clear that the US enjoys a substantial advantage in its size of the defense budget owing to the largely technologically advanced military that requires substantial funding.

Epistemology and Skepticism Essay Example for Free

Epistemology and Skepticism Essay * Epistemology and Skepticism: How does The Matrix illustrate the challenge of skepticism about the external world? Explain, discuss, and critically evaluate the hallucination argument for complete epistemological skepticism. Be sure your essay includes a discussion of either Hospers or Crumley IIs criticism of complete epistemological skepticism. Is complete epistemological skepticism a logically coherent theory? Support your answer with a well-reasoned argument free of any major errors of fact, fallacy or logical contradiction. I. Introduction * The matrix questions the nature of reality * How can we know for certain that the world is how we perceive it and not just a veil over our eyes? * Explain movie- trapped in virtual world believing they are in 21st century * Explanation proposes question, what is real? II. Main Points. * Main Character Morpheus: â€Å"What is ‘real’? How do you define ‘real’? If real is simply what you can feel, smell, taste and see, then ‘real’ is simply electrical signals interpreted by your brain.† * Consequently, â€Å"How can we be sure our brain isn’t being tricked by some simulation to believe things are real, when they aren’t? This is how matrix proposes the challenge of epistemological skepticism. * Hallucination argument: Modus Tollens, question soundness (valid) 1. If we posses knowledge (K) we must be able to rule out the possibility of systematic hallucination (S). K S 2. ~S (the matrix hypothesis.) (MT 1) 3. ~ K ( MT 1 2) * One arguer against skepticism: John Hospers * Merely verbal * Skeptics take strong sense of the word knowledge, must have proof at all times * Others use weak sense, meaning we only need proof or evidence only when someone is proving otherwise. * Doubt is an empty word * Basic point: once a test has been done to remove doubt we have a good reason to believe it is true, thus we have knowledge. III. Conclusion * Skeptics believe knowledge is unobtainable, in this case the hallucination argument proves the premises are true through Modus Tollens. Although the argument is sound, it is self-defeating because skeptics believe they know that they don’t really â€Å"know† anything. Moreover, complete epistemological skepticism is not a logically coherent view because the argument being claimed would require the person to have knowledge to conduct such argument.

Masculinity in Oliver Stones Nixon :: Film Movie American History President Essays

Masculinity in Oliver Stone's Nixon I. Introduction When President Nixon was leaving the White House, Henry Kissinger comforted him by saying, "History will treat you kindly," to which Nixon replied, "That depends on who writes the history" (Hamburg xiv). [1] Watching Oliver Stone’s Nixon (1995) and the director’s earlier film JFK (1991), it is difficult to have kind thoughts about Richard Nixon. Stone’s investment in the figure of the president manifests itself in two ways: first, in the director’s fixation on Nixon as a symbol of the corrupt political landscape after President John Kennedy’s assassination, and, second, his fixation on Nixon as a symbol of a failed patriarch or an ineffective father figure who led the country into further turmoil. Stone has argued that he hoped to elicit sympathy for Nixon, but I will show that the director’s emphasis on Nixon as an epic tragedy, especially in conjunction with the Beast thesis, does not allow for sympathy or understanding of the man or his politics. [2] My analysis primarily focuses on Stone’s film Nixon, but it is noteworthy to mention JFK, since both films were embroiled in heated debates regarding historical authenticity and artistic license. In JFK, Stone pieces together several conspiracy theories as to who was responsible for President Kennedy’s assassination from â€Å"real† primary texts, news footage, ear and eye witnesses, and the Zapruder film, among others. In Nixon, Stone uses similar techniques to posit equally troubling theses: the first that Nixon, while Vice President, was involved in a plot to assassinate Fidel Castro, and, second, that Nixon was directly or inadvertently responsible for the deaths of John and Robert Kennedy. Stone elects to create scenes and embellish information but defends his mixing of fact and speculation: â€Å"Of course, there’s license and speculation, but they are based on reasonable assumptions which we’ve discussed with highly reliable techn ical advisers who lived through the history we’re recounting in the film† (Monsel 206). [3] Regardless of historical inaccuracies, it is valuable to analyze how Stone constructs Nixon’s personae, as well as the epic thesis of the â€Å"Beast† in American politics, because, through both, Stone deconstructs the American ideology of the ideal man, as well as the â€Å"American dream† of success. II. American Capitalist Ideology and Marketing of Nixon and JFK. [4] The marketable nature of Stone’s controversy is elaborated in the ideologies he chooses to emphasize and the â€Å"whitewashing† of particular historical facts that are shown in Nixon.

Bros before hoe’s in masculinity Essay

Although there are some men that break the mold, the majority of men will never fully endorse women’s equality. This is not because most men are pigs looking to degrade women, it is because of the concept of the paradox of men’s power. Men as a social group are powerful and yet so many men feel weak, especially in relationships with women. Women seem to have the power to put a leash on men. Many men feel in control when they have the support of their fraternity of brothers. Most men are not willing to let their brothers down by siding with pro-feminists. Siding with pro-feminists, as a male, could be seen as trying to escape from the box that is hegemonic masculinity. There has been a destabilization of hegemonic masculinity with the movement of civil rights groups, namely the women’s rights movement. There are many arguments in favor of equality amongst men and women. In the past women were seen as the homemakers, that there was no need to educate them and there was clearly no place in the workforce for their sex. â€Å"The time when girls needed no education, because all they had to do was to pick one of a troop of suitors, marry him, keep house for him, and live on his wages, is gone forever, for the very simple reason that no woman can consistently live on a man’s wages any more (Kimmel and Mosmiller, 1992: 178-179).† Early in this nations history, men were viewed as the breadwinners; it was very seldom that one would see a woman in the workplace. As the years have progressed however, there has been a steady shift towards a society where just as many women are working as men. It has also become more common to see stay at home dads. By 1999, the percentage of women in the workforce was nearly sixty percent and men had fallen to about seventy-five percent according to the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America’s (UAW) website. R.W. Connell states that there are many reasons why equality in the workplace would benefit men in his article â€Å"Change among the Gatekeepers.† â€Å"For instance, very large numbers of men are fathers, and about half of their children are girls (Connell, 2005: 617).† Men with daughters will clearly want their children to succeed and have the same opportunities as other children, regardless of gender. Connell also states that the role of breadwinner is a burden that many men feel compelled to fill. Over the years this has led to health concerns as a result of stress and work related  illness and injury. With more women in the workplace the number of men with these problems should significantly decrease. Recently there has been a surge of women in the political realm. Hillary Clinton running for president and Sarah Palin being picked, by a man, to be his vice presidential running mate shows that times have changed immensely. If a woman were to run for a position such as this early in America’s history, she would have been laughed at. The idea of a female president still is not completely accepted by everyone, but Clinton did have her share of male supporters. Connell states that men would be subject to less violence if more women were in the workplace and if they held high power positions such as governor and president (Connell, 2005: 615). People in high power positions are often targeted for acts of violence, for instance John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln, and Robert Kennedy, just to name a few. It is not often that one turns on the news to hear of a female being assassinated. Men’s violence towards women will also be decreased(Kimmel and Mosmiller, 1992). â€Å"Many pro-feminist men have embraced a feminist analysis male violence against women, particularly battery and rape (Kimmel and Mosmiller, 1992: 371).† The idea is that if equality is reached in society, men and women will have more meaningful relationships thus increasing understanding of one another and decreasing hostility and aggression. â€Å"In our society, caring (for children, sick people, the elderly etc.) is viewed as a ‘woman’s business’. The ‘art of caring’ appears almost as a natural condition of being a woman: ‘Being a woman means being good at caring for people.’ However, in many parts of the world, we are seeing more men carrying out tasks associated with child care, either inside the home or in institutions (Lyra, 2004: 3).† Although many believe that women should have equal rights, there is still a sense that a woman’s place is in the household. These beliefs have been proliferated for centuries from the establishment of the United States. In the beginning this was how society was organized, a somewhat caste-like system. Now there has been a shift, but the ideas still remain. For example when Hillary Clinton ran for president if these issues did not still exist then the fact that she is a woman would never have been as big a talking point as it proved to be. Many men and women for that matter refused to support her simply because she was in fact  a female running for president. The problem with universal equality is that one group will always be looking for an advantage over another group. â€Å"An essential question for any pro-feminist man must be whether or not it is possible for men to act against their own collective material interests (Douglas, 1994: 33).† As Michael Kaufman states in his idea of the paradox of men’s power, men as a group are powerful. For as long as this country has been in existence, men have had the certain privileges over women. This may not seem fair and to be honest it isn’t, but it would be interesting to turn the tables and see how women would act then. Would they be as fiercely in favor of equal rights, or would they do as many men do and just leave the system alone? This is a clear question that could easily cross the mind of any male pondering gender equality. The answer is not so cut and dry, this is why it will be difficult, even after many years, to get all men on board with the women’s rights movement. â€Å"The pro-feminist men’s movement starts from the acknowledgement that men have power and privilege in a male-dominated society (Kaufman, 1994: 156).† This idea is a problem for many men, so much so that there are even Men’s rights activists. Not all men are willing to admit that males have an advantage over women in society. â€Å"Men’s rights activists fight perceived men’s oppression, including selective service registration, unfair legal decrees of alimony and child support, and domestic violence against men (Fox, 2004: 104).† A common argument that I’ve heard is that women are looking for equal rights, but everyone on that side of the fence seems to be perfectly content with only allowing men to be drafted for wars. I don’t wish to sound like a hostile sexist because I am most definitely in favor of women’s rights, I just don’t see it as a reality for any time in the near future. The fact of the matter is that you cant have it both ways. In order for full equality, the feminists need to take the good with the bad, otherwise it is not equality that feminists are looking for, but instead to gain the upper hand on men. I feel that many men recognize this fact and it is for this reason they shy away from supporting the feminist movement. Most of this issue lies on the idea of equality in the workplace. â€Å"Let the ablest of the sex be called to the lecture room, to the temperance rostrum, and whenever a post office falls vacant and a deserving woman is competent to fill and willingly take it, let her be appointed (Greely, 1852: 167).† If I am the candidate for a job and I am up against a woman, I am not going to step aside and say ‘you take this position because women have been oppressed for quite some time.’ I, like Horace Greely, believe that the most qualified person should get the job. I know that I’ve seen many women, who are clearly in favor of equal treatment, bat their eyelashes, show some cleavage, and flirt with police officers to get out of a ticket. The same thing occurs in the workplace with interviews, some women will cast aside their beliefs in order to flirt their way into a job. As an on-looking male, I must make note that these women are playing on the very stereotypes that they seek to eliminate. This makes it even more difficult for men to take up the fight for pro-feminism; if women cannot take their fight seriously, how can men be expected to join? Most men are all for women fighting for equality and many will not be completely opposed to those men who do choose to fight on the pro-feminist side. There is a sense that these men are leaving the brotherhood. Some might say that it is almost an oxymoron to be a pro-feminist man. If a complete level of equality among genders were to be reached, which I don’t see anytime in the near future, it would be as a result of the lowering of men’s rights in order to level the playing field. Many men hold this view and this is why men who choose to fight for women can be viewed as traitors in a sense. A lot of men can feel constricted by women who often use tools like sex to get what they want. It is in these times that men usually turn to their ‘brothers in arms’ to loosen the collar that women impose as a means of control. As bad as it may sound, a lot of men will be in favor of women’s rights, but do nothing about it. Honestly what group with power is looking to relinquish their supremacy? The way society progresses is through competition. Most people, men and women alike, will always be looking for the upper hand. It is for this reason that full equality among genders is not a realistic goal. View as multi-pages

How People Grow Reflection Paper by Cloud and Townsend

REFLECTION PAPER OF HOW PEOPLE GROW BOOK BY CLOUD AND TOWNSENDVillatoro-Ramirez Counseling Department Denver Seminary Monte Hasz Psy. D. Elisabeth A. Nesbit, Ph. D. CO 631 01 Career Development and Assessment October 8, 2012 Reading How People Grow (Cloud and Townsend, 2001) has been an interesting experience because the author of this paper’s knowledge about counseling has been transformed in different ways. This reading has forced me to evaluate my own approach to counseling and my spiritual life has been impacted through the reflection about grace and law as well.I appreciate that this book has already been translated to Spanish language, which has given me the opportunity to read faster and better understanding of some ideas because Spanish is my first language. I have already included this book as a required reading to the course of Pastoral Care, which is taught at Denver Seminary’s Hispanic Initiatives because in my personal opinion this book is useful for all pe ople in Christian ministry who wants to know how people grow. Thus, through this paper I will explain my understanding on how people grow according to Cloud and Townsend.In addition, I will critique the book comparing it with two of the systems of integration presented in class by Drs. Nesbit and Hasz. To accomplishing it this paper has been divided in three areas. The first explains my personal understanding about what Cloud and Townsend (2001) say about how people grow. The second area compares this book with two systems of integration, which are Biblical counseling and the Integration approach. Finally, the rest of the paper focuses on reflection and application as a resource for clients.First, I think Cloud and Townsend (2001) use the concept of Christian counseling and discipleship or personal growth in the same way. For them there is not difference between spiritual life and real life (21). The heart of their book presents the idea of working on relational and emotional issues back into the mainstream of spiritual growth (21). It can be seen in the chapter the Paradise lost where Cloud started to describe that at the time that he began his ministry there were four models of how people grow (16).He was clear saying that he saw value in these four models practicing all of them in some degree even though he was inclined for the model of truth which held that the truth would the person free. If the person was not free or some area of life was not working it must be because lacked truth in the life of this person (16). However, and even though Cloud (2001) saw people improve, and prayer, learning Scripture, and repentance were very powerful elements in healing many clinical conditions he realized that something was missing in all these elements (18).He realized that all these spiritual methods did not resolve some problems (18). People were helped but not cured (18). Thus, Cloud (2001) became disillusioned and went for further training and has experience with sincere Christian people who had been very diligent about spiritual growth but without success (19). However, he continued to work in Christian counseling for a few years more when he started to see processes that actually changed people’s lives (19). These processes were not the traditional Christian way to grow that he had learned.These processes involved deep transformations of the soul and there was the spiritual life, where we learned about God and grew in our relationship to him, and then there was the emotional and relational life, where we learned how to solve real-life problems (19). In other words, both Cloud and Townsend (2001) believe that the issues why people come for counseling are not growth issues or counseling issues, but spiritual growth issues (21). In addition, Cloud and Townsend (2001) emphasis that spiritual growth should affect relationship problems, emotional problems, and all other problems of life (22).For them there is no difference between spirit ual life and real life because it is all one. They go through the major categories of Christian doctrine and talk about how each doctrine applies to personal growth (23). Second, about the comparison of this book with two systems of integration, I think in some point Cloud and Townsend (2010) are part of the biblical counseling approach which focus is on the sufficiency of the Scripture for counseling needs.A definite strength for Cloud and Townsend’s book is their use of the Bible and appeal to its authority as well. Contrary to Scott’s presentation of Biblical counseling, Cloud and Townsend (2010) are not directive and sermonic. They are more practical and enlighten the process of how people grow through the emotional and relational life, where they share practical ideas about how to solve real-life problems. In this sense, there is not way to use their method out of the church or Christian environments, which I think it is a weakness of their method.In other words, following this methodology a counselor would not seek the governmental endorsement of a professional license and cannot work in secular counseling settings as a rule. Because Cloud and Townsend (2001) at the beginning of their book expressed through some examples of Christian people facing mental problems in a hospital, I thought that they may lean toward the integration approach looking to secular models for treatment techniques. However, in the rest of their book they did not mention about a different way of treatment more than practical counseling application of the Bible.In addition to this point I can say that it seems to me that Cloud and Townsend (2001) use group therapy as a source of help people even though they say that working in group is an external spiritual source that God has given us to grow. I think to working in a Christian environment, this idea of groups to help people to grow is powerful. However, it seems to me that Cloud and Townsend (2001) did not want to be related to the four methods that were at that time they began to work on counseling.However, this book ends doing almost the same thing that biblical counseling in the sense that does not giving space for secular techniques as a source of help other than the Bible. Cloud and Townsend (2001) differentiate internal and external sources that God has given us to grow (126). For them internal sources are Bible, prayer, and Holy Spirit and external sources are all help that others can gives us as a way of help. In this sense, they talk widely about the work in groups, which I think it may be a secular technique however they did not recognize that.It seems to me that they are ambiguous not telling that they are combining some secular techniques in their work at Christian environments. Finally, because Cloud and Townsend (2001) were clear to say that their desire that their book be practical, and help the reader (I think Christian reader) to understand how the growth process is theological. I agree that in my life they accomplish that desire because there are some areas of application that I can mention that would like to implement in my ministry. First thing that I learned in the reading of â€Å"How people grow† Cloud and Townsend, 2001) was the concept of grace and law. I think in our Christian world we have misunderstood the concept of grace and that is why we live under the idea of a God who is ready to punish us. At least it is what I discovered on my own life through this reading. I like how Cloud and Townsend (2001) explained that grace is something that we cannot give ourselves because it comes from outside of us, as unmerited favor; and we can not do anything to obtain grace (127). It was powerful to me learning that grace is an external source of healing that we can give and receive through the body of Jesus, the church.I appreciate that Cloud and Townsend (2001) remind us that God created us to be in relationship with others so it is through others that people can grow as well. I love this concept because it is contrary with what our individualistic culture says. In addition, this concept is contrary with some teachings that say that people do not need other people at all because Christ alone is sufficient or that his Word or prayer is enough. These teachings actively and directly lead others to not depend on people at all because they think it is wrong.I like how Cloud and Townsend (2001) explained that the Bible teaches that all these things are part of the process, including other people (121). Through the book both of them Cloud and Townsend (2001) emphasized loudly the role of the body in the process of how people grow. In sum, how people grow (Cloud and Townsend, 2001) is a great tool for counselors who work in Christian environments because offers practical ideas about based on the Scripture. Differently to the Biblical counseling approach, Cloud and Townsend (2001) focus on the grace instead of the law.In addition, Clo ud and Townsend (2001) emphasize the role of the body of Jesus as a source of growth in the life of the believer. Cloud and Townsend (2001) is not recommended for counselors who work in a secular settings even though the principles that come directly from the Bible must be applicable in the personal life that any Christian counselor no matter where his or her job’s place be. References Cloud, H. , and Townsend, J. (2001). How people grow: What the Bible reveals about personal growth. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan

Introducing Yourself in English

Introducing Yourself in English Learning how to introduce yourself is an essential  part of learning how to converse in English. Introductions are also an important part of making  small talk  at parties or other social events. Introductory phrases are different than the ones we use to  greet friends, but theyre often used together as parts of the broader conversation, as youll see. Introducing Yourself In this example, Peter and Jane are meeting for the first time at a social event. After greeting each other, they begin by asking simple personal questions.  Working with a friend or classmate, take turns  practicing this role-play. Peter:  Hello. Jane:  Hi! Peter:  My name is Peter. Whats your name? Jane:  My name is Jane. Nice to meet you. Peter:  Its a pleasure. This is a great party! Jane:  Yes, it is. Where are you from? Peter:  Im from Amsterdam. Jane:  Amsterdam? Are you German? Peter:  No, Im not German. Im Dutch. Jane:  Oh, youre Dutch. Sorry about that. Peter:  Thats OK. Where are you from? Jane:  Im from London, but Im not British. Peter:  No, what are you? Jane:  Well, my parents were Spanish, so Im Spanish, too. Peter:  Thats very interesting. Spain is a beautiful country. Jane:  Thank you. It is a wonderful place. Key Vocabulary In the previous example, Peter and Jane are introducing themselves. Several important phrases that they use in this exchange are: My name is...Where are you from?Im from... (city, state, or country)Are you... (Spanish, American, German, etc.) Introducing Other People Introductions in Formal Situations Introductions can occur between more than two people, for example at a party or at a business meeting. When you meet someone for the first time, it is common to greet them by saying, Its a pleasure to meet you, or Pleased to meet you. It is polite to respond by repeating the statement back at them, as Mary does in this example: Ken: Peter, Id like you to meet Mary. Peter: Its a pleasure to meet you. Mary: Its a pleasure to meet you too! Ken: Mary works for... Introductions in Informal Situations In informal situations, especially in North America, introductions are also made simply saying, This is (name). It is also common to just say Hi or Hello as a response in this informal setting. Ken: Peter, this is Mary. Peter: Hi. How are you? Mary: Hello! Pleased to meet you. Ken: Mary works for... Common Introductory Phrases As you can see in the previous examples, there are a number of different phrases that are commonly used to introduce  strangers: (name), I dont think youve met (name).I dont think you know (name)May I introduce you to (name)(name), do you know (name)?(name), Id like you to meet (name) Saying Hello and Goodbye Many people begin and end conversations by saying hello and goodbye to each other. Doing so is considered good manners in many parts of the English-speaking world, and its also a simple way to express friendly interest in whoever youre chatting with. A simple greeting followed by asking about the other person is all that is needed to begin an introduction. In this brief scenario, two people have just met: Jane: Hello, Peter. How are you? Peter: Fine, thanks. How are you? Jane: Im fine, thank you. Once youre finished speaking with someone, its customary to say goodbye as you both part, as in this example: Peter: Goodbye, Jane. See you tomorrow! Jane: Bye bye, Peter. Have a nice evening. Peter: Thanks, you too! Key Vocabulary Key phrases to remember include: Hello... How are you?Im fine, thank youGoodbyeSee you... (tomorrow, this weekend, next week, etc.)Have a nice... (day, evening, week, etc.) More Beginning Dialogues Once youre mastered introducing yourself, you can practice your English skills with more exercises, including telling time, shopping at a store, traveling at an airport, asking for directions, staying at a hotel, and eating at a restaurant. Work with a friend or classmate to practice these role-playing dialogues, just as you did for these exercises.

Exercises in the ambulance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Exercises in the ambulance - Essay Example I would need to be thoroughly and constantly motivated in order to best deal with these situations, particularly considering that an emergency demands that I be in top form. Organization. Organization is important for a paramedic. When you are organized then you can treat patients more quickly. For example: When arriving at the accident spot where 2 people have been involved in an accident, I am first on the spot therefore need to quickly assess the situation and what I can best do to help. I need to determine whom is the most hurt and in which places in order to know who to treat first and who gets treated last. Organization helps keep me and others (my patients or assistant) calm, as well as helping me focus on the most important tasks. Using support: A person’s injuries might sometimes be life threatening. I might not have time to transport him or her to hospital, making it necessary that I conduct the required life-interventions on the spot. This might be traumatic for me, or the person might die despite my greatest efforts. These and other instances would make it easier for me to have a supervisor and/ or teacher that would assist me (someone whom I can talk cases over with) and family and friends whom I can share the pain with. Realistic expectations – Since I am the ‘doctor on the go’ and perhaps the only one in the situation, I must be prepared to deal with any possible situation. This could involve: CPR, assisting with childbirth, or using EKGs or X-ray devices. Reflect on their experience. Experience helps me become more confident and relaxed about my work. On the other hand, if I become too confident I might become too smug and make mistakes, therefore, it would help me to always reflect on situations that have occurred and ask myself where I did well and how I can do better. Strategic thinking. This means that I need to

Qatar Exchange Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Qatar Exchange - Term Paper Example This sector currently has a total of eighteen firms listed in the Qatari stock exchange thus presenting it as one of the most successful sectors in the Qatar market. The consistent growth of this sector has always been attributed to the higher lending associated with higher scale of infrastructural projects. The slated 2022 FIFA world cup in Qatar has also stimulated a high growth in the investment projects making the sector the best performing at the moment (Qatar, 2014). The Insurance sector: this sector has 12 firms listed on the stock exchange market and is rated as one of the best performing sectors in the Qatar’s economy. This sector has been receiving annual growth rate of at least 11.3% from the year 2008 outlining how well the sector is performing. Due to the weakening demands on major expensive claims such as personal accident claims and health insurance, the growth has maintained a steady rise making the sector among the very best performing (Qatar 2010 Phase 1). The services sector: this is another very well performing sector in the Qatar’s stock market with a total of 15 firms listed in the stock exchange market. The net profit realized by this sector grew to 21.0% in the first quarter of 2014. The single largest contributor to this was the Qatar fuel company posting a 12.3% rise in their own net profit. The industry and Hotel sector: this sector has 17 firms listed in the Qatar stock market. Even though the profits from this sector reduced by 7.3% in the first quarter of 2014, it is still able to contribute 27.2% of the of the Qatar’s total market profit. This drop is mainly attributed to the extended planned closing, the general increasing costs and the product price deflation (Qatar 2010 Phase 1). The individuals of firms that are interested in trading in the Qatar Exchange in form of buying and selling of the shares listed must first of all follow the laid down

Movies Influence Among the People Research Proposal

Movies Influence Among the People - Research Proposal Example The most popular and influential of all movie industries is obviously, Hollywood. According to Allan and Barbara Pease, American films have been one media that brought about the vast spreading of American culture throughout the world, even in shaping the culture of the younger generation of in some parts of Asia. Hollywood plays a big part in the development of one's culture, as well as in the development of one's life. The media gives, and the audience receives. By studying (Hollywood) movie fanatics, we will know the reason as to why these people love to watch movies a lot; it could be discovered what genre of movies people of a certain culture prefer - as this is related to their daily routine and lifestyle; finding out if movie fanatics lead lives influenced by movies, or if these have affected their lives. Hollywood, too, is quite curious as to the numbers that upcoming box office hits may produce. They have hired three companies, namely, IAG Research, OTX, and the National Research Group to actually study these. These companies conduct different surveys, but only have one question they want answered, "Are movie goers still interested in a new release" (Horn 1). Just like in anything else, movie goers too have their own preferences when it comes to the movies they are fond of watching. Is this connected to their culture and lifestyle That is one question we would like to find out. In 2008, it has been noted that one of the quite surprising box-office results has been the performance of the movie, "The Game Plan." Most movies usually drop some 50% every weekend. However, this feel-good football film stays on, even on its second week of release (Horn 2). Americans are sports lovers by nature, and having baseball, football, and basketball in the list, this movie surely captured the audie nces by its relation to their cultural side, as a sporty nation. It is also to be noted that the movie showed the story of a father and his estranged daughter, which also reflect a part of the American lifestyle today. Movies' influence among the people is very strong that scenes depicting the stars smoking are being asked to be removed from youth-rated movies as this could influence, mostly the young members of society when they see their favorite star having a fondness for it (Guardian News and Media 2008). The lifestyle of the current times is very much faster and more stressful compared to those in the past that watching movies have been such a pacifier against stressful living. The movies create an escape from reality, and into the land of one's imaginary desires. Whatever the theme may be, it is a refuge for the busy minds of today's world and the hustle and bustle that comes with it (Connors). Plans for the Research Since movies are released weekly in the cinemas, plus movie goers are everywhere - as it is quite a trend, having movie watching considered as a recreation for some, it would probably take 4-6 weeks to complete the research. Observing the weekly releases and how the people in general respond to it is one way of gauging what do movie goers/movie fanatics really want, in terms of movies' genre. The

Increasing Taxes on Alcohol and Cigarettes Essay Example for Free

Increasing Taxes on Alcohol and Cigarettes Essay †¢Ã¢â‚¬Å"Sin taxes† on cigarettes and alcohol are designed to boost revenue, not improve public health †¢Minimum alcohol pricing will exacerbate poverty and entrench inequality without discouraging binge drinking †¢Most of the costs of drinking and smoking fall on individual consumers, not the public. There is no economic justification for increasing taxes on smokers and drinkers. In a report released today, The Wages of Sin Taxes (Download PDF) by Christopher Snowdon, the Adam Smith Institute condemns the government’s decision to increase taxes on cigarettes and alcohol this year and to introduce minimum alcohol pricing. The report argues that ‘sin taxes’ (taxes on commodities seen as harmful to health) are ineffective in reducing consumption and are not necessary for recouping lost revenue. The taxes are highly regressive and force the poor to pay for the government’s mishandling of public finances. The taxes don’t work Cigarette taxes are now so high that increases drive smokers to the black market instead of discouraging consumption or raising more revenue. Sin taxes are more likely to deter moderate users than heavy users, whose demand for cigarettes and alcohol is relatively inelastic. A heavy smoker or an alcoholic is unlikely to reduce consumption because of a price rise, making sin taxes an unreliable way of reducing consumption or improving public health. The victims of cigarette and alcohol duty Sin taxes hit moderate and heavy users alike. Research has shown that previous rises in cigarette tax have made only 2.3% of smokers quit, with the other 97.7% just paying more in tax. Taxes on cigarettes and alcohol are regressive and hit the poor hardest. The average smoker spends  £1660 a year on cigarettes – 20% of the bottom 10%’s income. Sin taxes are the most regressive indirect taxes, as they tend to target products that are disproportionately consumed by the poor. Minimum alcohol pricing is also deeply regressive, only affecting the cheaper drinks consumed by the poor. Punishing poor people for enjoying a drink or a cigarette exacerbates poverty and treats the poor like children who need to be controlled by the state. The public cost of smoking and drinking Taxes on cigarettes and alcohol have often been justified by studies that claim to estimate the â€Å"social cost† of these vices. These studies include intangible costs borne by individual consumers, such as â€Å"emotional distress†, lost years of life, and individual expenditures on cigarettes and alcohol. These are personal costs, not social costs. They also fail to include the economic benefits the alcohol and cigarette industry gives to the UK in terms of employment and government revenue. Most of these studies should be relegated to the bin of junk statistics. In fact, smokers and heavy drinkers do not cost the state more. Though smokers may cost more during their working lives, but non-smokers require greater expenditure in pensions, nursing care and welfare payments. Chronic diseases associated with old age are far more expensive than the lethal diseases associated with smoking and alcoholism. Smokers and drinkers are not a burden on the state, and the myth of saints subsidising sinners should not be used to justify tax rises. The appeal of ‘sin taxes’ Despite the fact they hurt the poor and do not change consumer consumption, sin taxes have always been popular with governments as a source of revenue. Sin taxes and minimum alcohol pricing should be recognised for what they really are stealth taxes and paternalism designed to control the poor. Chris Snowdon, author of the report and Adam Smith Institute fellow, says: â€Å"Campaigners for sin taxes and minimum pricing often claim that â€Å"healthy citizens† are forced to bear the cost of other people’s lifestyles. In fact, the evidence shows that smokers take less from the communal pot than the average Briton and the money raised from alcohol duty comfortably pays for any burden drinking places on public services. If the aim of policy is to make individuals pay their way, the government should slash the beer tax and subsidise cigarettes. We are not seriously suggesting the government does this, but if politicians insist on increasing taxes on these products, they sh ould admit that the purpose is to raise revenue. Essentially the government is forcing the people who are least likely to live to extreme old age to pay for the escalating costs of an ageing population.

Problems encountered in the onion cultivation of the Dambulla area

Problems encountered in the onion cultivation of the Dambulla area Big Onion crop was introduced to Sri Lanka by the British in 1855 and commercial cultivation was introduced by the Department of Agriculture during the 1950s and over the past years, the crop performance was evaluated in many parts of the country and it was observed that big onions can be grown economically during every Maha season in almost all parts of the country. 2. However, at present the cultivation of big onion is confined only to Matale, Anuradhapura, Puthalama, Pollonnaruwa, Mahawelli and Jaffna Districts. More than 50% of the total onion production in Sri Lanka is cultivated from the Matale District.  [1]   3. The Government strives to achieve a self sufficient stage in the production of big onions since Sri Lanka spends a significant amount of cash outflow every year on the importation of the big onions. Meanwhile, in the recent past it has been noticed that the big onion production has been affected in Sri Lanka and therefore customers are also paying a higher price for the big onions. In particular the big onion production in Dambulla area has been declining in the last few years. AIM OF THE RESEARCH 4. The Dambulla area plays an important role in the big onion cultivation in Sri Lanka. The Government has been paying less attention and support on promoting the big onion production in Dambulla. Therefore, it has so happened that the onion production in Dambulla has declined in the recent past as a consequence of the governments less support for this sector. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to promote the big onion cultivation in the Dambulla area. OBJECTIVES General Objectives 5. This research is carried out with the following specific and general objectives. a. The main general objective of this study is to identify the main problems encountered in the onion cultivation of the Dambulla area. Specific objective 6. The specific objective of this study is to give the recommendation to improve the Big onion cultivation in the Dambulla area and specific objectives are as follows. a. To study the recent history of Big onion cultivation in Dambulla area and to compare the present situation of the Big Onion cultivation. b. To identify the main issues encountered in big onion cultivation in Dambulla. c. To identify the critical contributing factors. d. To make recommendations based on the findings. CHAPTER TWO METHODOLOGY HYPOTHESIS 1. Low yield of onion industry in Dambulla is due to less assistance of the government sector STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM 2. The Matale District plays an important role in the big onion cultivation in Sri Lanka in particular Dambulla provides big onions for the Sri Lankans consumption. In the recent past due to the lack of support from the government sector the big onion cultivation has been declining. 3. As a result the big onion cultivation in Dambulla will be non existence in the very near future. Furthermore, many farmers depend on the big onion cultivation as their livelihood in Dambulla. Hence, if the big onion cultivation in Dambulla is affected many families will lose their income and it will affect the survival of many families. Thus the lack of support from the government and the consequent less onion cultivation are considered as the research problem for this study. SCOPE OF THE STUDY 4. This research studies the declining stage of the onion cultivation in Dambulla. The scope covers only the Dambulla area of big onion farmers. Therefore, this research has been limited to the onion farmers of the Dambulla area. DATA COLLECTION METHODS a. Primary Data . Structured questionnaires were used to collect the data. These questionnaires consist of 2 parts they are; Part I the factors determining the big onion cultivation in Dambulla and Part II the personal profile. The first part comprises statements of two major factors which determine the big onion cultivation in Dambulla; poor quality of seeds and the lack of fertilizer support. To identify the responses the questionnaire in part I applied the Likert scale of 1 5, which ranges from Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree. The second part included the personal profile of the respondents relating to; age, sex, civil status and number of years the farmer has been in cultivation. b. Secondary Data. In addition to primary data, secondary data also was collected for this research. It was collected by referring to the reports from the Agricultural Department and from the Department of Census and Statistics. SAMPLE OF THE STUDY 7. This research studies the factors influencing the decline of the big onion cultivation in Dambulla. Therefore, the responses were collected from the local onion farmers from the Dambulla area. Thus, 100 big onion farmers were considered as a sample for this study since all farmers could not be accessible within the limited time for this study. These farmers were selected in a random basis. Therefore, the simple random sampling method was applied for the selection of the sample. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY 8. The following limitations were encountered in the study. a. Time is limited, so that within the limited time the research has to be finished because of this in-depth analysis cannot be applied. b. The researcher encountered limitation of resources. c. The sample was limited only to 100 farmers. LITERATURE REVIEW 9. The big onion is an important minor crop consumed by many Sri Lankans and it has been estimated that 34,000 metric tons of onion is imported annually and Sri Lanka spends around 300 million rupees on onion importation (Gunawardena, 2009). Furthermore, it has been also estimated that 45,000 labour units are employed in the onion cultivation and production annually by Sri Lankans and therefore, it increases income and employment generation for many Sri Lankans.  [2]   10. Many countries worldwide are getting involved in the big onion production. In particular they are; Belarus, Russia, Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, India, Pakistan etc (Research Institute for Vegetable crops, 2006). 11. According to Shanmugasundaram (2001) there are varieties of onion and it mainly includes the sweet, red, white, yellow, brown and green etc. TYPES OF ONION Source Shanmugasundaram (2008) BENEFITS OF ONION PRODUCTION 12. Furthermore, it has been identified that the big onion production brings several comparative benefits when compared to with other crops (Autko Moisevich, 2006). Some of the benefits are given below. a. Output can be obtained in a short period of time. b. Initial costs such as; seeds costs, fertilizer costs are comparatively less. c. It does not require a set cost. d. Less technology the machines are sufficient. e. High employability of manual labourers. f. Easy to find markets. g. Less storage period. 13. The onion basically has been divided into red onions and big onions and each variety requires different eco-agricultural conditions, labour, fertilizer, weather and climatic conditions, temperature, etc. REQUIREMENTS AND CONDITIONS NEEDED FOR THE ONION PRODUCTION 14. The literature suggests different requirements for smooth growing of the big onion production. Some of the conditions suggested by Autko and Moisevich (2006) are given below. a. Increase of fertile soil layers in the zone of plant root by 4-6 cm b. Increase of aeration and warming of soil, excluding over wetting in the period of heavy precipitation c. Decrease of fertilizer rate application by 30% d. Decrease of seed sowing rates e. Ensuring of looser soil state during the whole period of vegetation f. Possibility of soil surface copying by working organs of machines, during inter-row treatment, lowering of plant protective zone 3-5 cm, mechanical weed destruction by 70-75% and band application of pesticides that ensures the decrease of their rates by 2-3 times g. Increase of irrigation efficiency h. Diminution of nitrate content in the production j. Decrease of energy expense during harvesting by 20-40%. 15. Therefore, the above conditions can be considered as the basic requirements for the growth and survival of the big onion production. 16. The onion basically has been divided into red onions and large onions and each variety requires different eco-agricultural conditions, labour, fertilizer, weather and climatic conditions, temperature, etc. DECEASES IN THE ONION CULTIVATION 17. Shanmugasundaram, (2001) has identified the following diseases that affect the onion cultivation. He has divided these deceases into two. a. Field diseases b. Storage diseases 18. The field diseases comprises of Stemphylium blight , Purple blotch, Anthracnose, Botrytis leaf blight, Downy mildew, Pink root, Smudge, Smut and several Basal rots (Shanmugasundaram, 2001). 19. The storage diseases covers common field rots, botrytis neck rot, black mold and bacterial soft rot (Shanmugasundaram, 2001). PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED IN THE BIG ONION CULTIVATION IN SRI LANKA 20. Meanwhile it has been learned that in the recent past the onion cultivation has been reducing as a result of many factors. Some factors identified by Kulatunga (2006) are presented below. a. Lack of quality seeds b. Lack of advice given for application of seeds c. Insufficient loan facilities available to purchase high quality seeds d. Long durations taken for harvesting from seeds e. Lack of government support in providing fertilizer facilities to the onion production f. Lack of quality fertilizers available for the onion producers g. Lack of availability of fertilizer at outside and private outlets h. Absence of counselling and advice given on how to apply the fertilizers for the new variety j. Lack of storage facilities to store the onion production. 21. Though these problems are encountered in the onion production it can be divided into two major categories. These are given below. a. Lack of government support in giving seeds to the onion cultivators. b. Lack of government support to provide fertilizer to onion cultivation. LACK OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT TO SEEDS 22. It has been observed that big onion cultivation has been affected to greater extent by the lack of government motivation in finding required seeds. Thus; lack of quality seeds, lack of counselling and advise on applying seeds, lack of new variety of seeds, insufficient government financial support to purchase seeds, absence of assurance on harvesting duration etc are encountered under seeds (Kulatunga, 2006). LACK OF FERTILIZER SUPPORT 23. Kulatunga (2006) has also identified that there is no sufficient fertilizer support to motivate the big onion production. In Sri Lanka it has been learned that the onion farmers lack government funding and subsidies to buy fertilizers. Furthermore, fertilizer is sold at a fairly high price in the outside outlets. In addition the efficient and harvest stimulating fertilizers are not available for the onion farmers. Also the high quality and different variety of fertilizers are also not available to increase the big onion cultivation in the Dambulla area. INCREASING BIG ONION PRODUCTION 24. It is therefore important that the onion production is increased in order to protect the big onion industry and to assure the livelihood of many Sri Lankans. Hence the literature suggests that the following measures can increase the onion production. a. Involving in research and development activities in order to increase the onion production. b. Government providing support to find high quality seeds. c. Government has to give seeds of the new varieties. d. Government has to provide seeds at subsidized prices. e. Government has to provide constant counselling and advice on handling seeds. f. Government has to extend the fertilizer subsidy. g. Providing high quality fertilizer. h. Monitoring fertilizer distribution. j. Counselling on handling diseases. Conceptual model 25. From the literature review the following conceptual model has been developed. Figure 3.1 Conceptual Model Decreasing onion cultivation Lack of fertilizer availability Lack of seed availability (Source Formed for this Research Study) 26. The above figure depicts two sets of factors that determine the decrease in the onion cultivation; the lack of seed availability and the lack of fertilizer availability. This was derived from Kulatunga (2006). Each set of the major factors have sub factors. Therefore, these two are considered as the independent variables. The decreasing onion cultivation can be identified as the dependent variable. Hence, this figure establishes links between the factors and the decreasing onion cultivation. Through this research study one need to know which factor(s) cause for the decreasing onion cultivation, among the farmers in the Dambulla area. Table 2.1 Operationalization of Variables Concepts Variables Indicators Level of Measurement Question No. Factors determining the onion cultivation Lack of seeds availability Receiving high quality seeds Likert Q1 Distribution of seeds by the government Likert Q2 Provision of subsidy by the government to buy seeds regularly Likert Q3 Seeds giving the expected harvest Likert Q4 Purchase seeds from the Government Agricultural Department Likert Q5 Provision of training and counselling regarding the new seeds by the government Likert Q6 I can get new varieties of seeds Likert Q7 I can get regular counselling and advice of the diseases on the seeds Likert Q8 Lack of fertilizers availability Fertilizer subsidy from the government Likert Q9 Purchase of fertilizer from the Government Agricultural Department Likert Q10 Purchase of fertilizer from the private outlets at a less price Likert Q11 Getting high quality fertilizer Likert Q12 Getting advice and counselling for the application of fertilizers Likert Q13 Getting different variety of fertilizers Likert Q14 Getting fertilizer that can maximize the harvest Likert Q15 Storage of excess fertilizer for future use Likert Q16 (Source Formed for this research study) DATA EVALUATION 27. The mean and standard deviation were derived for data analysis. Furthermore, the criteria shown in the table below was adopted to evaluate the mean values. Table 2.2 Evaluation Criteria for Mean Values Range Degree 1 3.67 Low level Moderate level High level Source Developed for this study CHAPTER THREE DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS 1. This chapter covers the data presentation, analysis and discussion. DESCRIPTIVE STATISTICS 2. This section presents mean and standard deviation of the factors affecting the onion cultivation in Dambulla. The mean values have been distributed based on Likerts Scale of one to five which represents Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree. Meanwhile, mean values were evaluated based on the already established evaluative criteria which range from low level to high level. Table 3.1 the values of mean and standard deviation (SD) of factors contributing to the onion cultivation: Statements From current staff Mean SD Lack of seed availability 1.90 .25 Lack of fertilizer availability 2.24 .41Source Survey Data 3. Table 3.1 represents values of mean and standard deviation of factors contributing to the decreasing level of the onion cultivation. The mean value of the seed availability is 1.90 and the standard deviation is 0.25. Since the mean value of seed availability (1.90) is less than 2.33, it falls into the category of low level satisfaction 4. Meanwhile, the mean value of fertilizer availability is 2.24 and standard deviation for the same variable is 0.41. Thus, the mean value of fertilizer availability (2.24) is less than 2.33 and it also falls under low level of satisfaction. Table 3.2 the mean and standard deviation values for the statements in the seed availability: Statements Mean SD I get high quality seeds 1.88 .89 Government distribute seeds 1.94 .81 Government provides a subsidy to buy seeds regularly 1.74 .69 Seeds give an expected harvest 1.56 .61 We can buy seeds from the Government Agricultural Department 2.16 .86 Government provides training and counselling regarding the new seeds 2.12 .91 I can get new varieties of seeds 1.79 .55 I can get regular counselling and advice of the diseases in the seeds 1.85 .45Source Survey Data 5. Table 3.2 shows the mean and standard deviation values for the statements in the seeds availability. As presented above, all eight statements that measure seed availability for the onion farmers in the Dambulla area have taken the mean values of less than 2.33. Therefore, it can be derived that farmers satisfaction on all statements of seed availability fall into the category of lower level satisfaction. Table 3.3 the mean and standard deviation values for the statements in the fertilizer availability: Statements Mean SD I get fertilizer subsidy from the government 2.20 .92 I can buy fertilizer from the Government Agricultural Department 2.14 .85 I can buy fertilizer from private outlets at a less price 2.18 .99 I can get high quality fertilizer 2.20 .94 I get advice and counselling on the application of fertilizer 2.15 .93 I get different variety of fertilizer 2.24 .84 I get fertilizers that can maximize harvest 2.12 .96 I can store excess fertilizer for future use 2.09 .92 Source Survey Data 6. Table 3.3 reveals the values of mean and standard deviation for the statements in the fertilizer availability. Hence all statements that measure the influence of fertilizer availability of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area have taken the mean values less than 2.33. Therefore it can be stated that the farmers satisfaction towards all statements of fertilizer availability fall into the category of low level of satisfaction. Personal profile 7. This section presents data on the personal profile of the farmers in the Dambulla area. It covers age, sex, civil status and the number of years of experience in the onion cultivation of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area. Age Distribution Fig 3.1 the age distribution of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area: Source Survey Data Table 3.4 the age distribution of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area Age category Frequency Percent Less than 25 30 30 26-35 28 28 35-45 24 24 Above 45 18 18 Total 100 100 Source Survey Data 8. Fig 3.1 shows the age distribution of the respondents from onion farmers in the Dambulla area. Thirty percent of the respondents are less than 25 years and the respondents falling into the category of 26 35 and 35 45 are 28% and 24%, respectively and 82% of the respondents are less than the age of 45. Only 18% of the responded onion farmers are above the age of 45. Hence it reveals a fact that the majority of the onion framers in Dambulla are less than the age of 45. 9. Therefore it can be concluded that most of the young employees are found to be faced with a decreasing level of onion production. Sex Distribution Fig. 3.2 Sex distribution of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area Source Survey Data Table 3.5 Sex distribution of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area Sex category Frequency Percent Male 68 68 Female 32 32 Total 100 100 Source Survey Data 10. Fig 3.2 shows the sex distribution of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area. Sixty-eight percent of the responded onion farmers in the Dambulla area are male and 32% of the responded onion farmers are female. 11. This shows that most of the male onion farmers in the Dambulla area are found to be affected with a decreasing level of onion cultivation the Dambulla area. Civil status Fig 3.3 Civil status of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area : Source Survey Data Table 3.6 Civil status of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area   Civil status Frequency Percent Single 38 38 Married 62 62 Total 100 100 Source Survey Data 12. Fig 3.3 shows the civil status of the responded onion farmers in the Dambulla area. Sixty-two percent of the respondents are married and 38% are single. 13. It is clear that most of the married onion farmers in the Dambulla area are found to be facing the problem of a decreasing level of onion cultivation the Dambulla area. Distribution of years of experience Fig. 3.4 Number of years of experience in the onion cultivation Source Survey Data Table 3.7 Number of years of experience in the onion cultivation Number of years of experience Frequency Percent Less than 3 20 20 3-5 46 46 6-10 30 30 Above 10 4 4 Total 100 100 Source Survey Data 14. Fig 3.4 shows the number of years of experience in the onion cultivation of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area. Accordingly, 20 % of the responded onion farmers in the Dambulla area have less than 3 years of experience and the responded onion farmers in the Dambulla falling into the category of 3 5 and 6 10 years are 46% and 30%, respectively. Only 4% of the responded onion farmers have the experience of above 10 years. Thus, more than 95% of the responded onion farmers in the Dambulla area have less than 10 years of experience. 15. Therefore it can be stated that the most of the onion farmers in the Dambulla area who have an experience of less than 10 years are found to be encountering the problem of a decreasing level of onion cultivation in the Dambulla area. CHAPTER FOUR DISCUSSION AND ARGUMENTS 1. This chapter provides the discussion on analysis. It presents the mean and the standard deviation of the two factors contributing to the onion cultivation. Table 4.1 Mean and standard deviation values for the statements in the seed availability: Statements Mean SD I get high quality seeds 1.88 .89 Government distribute seeds 1.94 .81 Government provides the subsidy to buy seeds regularly 1.74 .69 Seeds give the expected harvest 1.56 .61 We can buy seeds from the Government Agricultural Department 2.16 .86 Government provides training and counselling regarding the new seeds 2.12 .91 I can get new varieties of seeds 1.79 .55 I can get regular counselling and advise on the diseases in the seeds 1.85 .45 Source Survey Data 2. As presented in Table 4.1 the onion farmers have expressed their lower level of satisfaction on all statements of the availability of seeds and the quality, because all mean values are under the category of 1 2.33. 3. Thus the first statement I get high quality seeds has taken a mean value of 1.88 which represents that the onion farmers are not highly satisfied with the availability of the high quality seeds. 4. Similarly the second statement Government distribute seeds has taken a mean value of 1.94 and this also comes under the lower level of satisfaction. This reflects that the government does not distribute seeds and therefore it also affects their onion cultivation. 5. Third statement Government provides the subsidy to buy seeds regularly has taken a mean value of 1.79 which represents that the onion farmers are not satisfied with the governments subsidies to buy the seeds. 6. Fourth statement Seeds gives the expected harvest has taken a mean value of 1.56 which reflects that the onion farmers are less satisfied with the amount of harvest from the seeds and this affect the onion cultivation from the Dambulla area. 7. 5th statement We can buy seeds from the Government Agricultural Department has given a mean value of 2.16 which shows that the onion farmers are unable to purchase seeds from the agricultural department and this also reduces the onion cultivation. 8. Next statement Government provides training and counselling regarding the new seeds has obtained a mean value of 2.12 which indicates that the onion cultivators do not get sufficient training and counselling from the relevant authorities on how to apply the new varieties of seeds and this affects the onion cultivation in the Dambulla area. 9. 7th statement I can get new varieties of seeds has received a mean value of 1.79 and this refers that the farmers are unable to get new varieties of seeds and therefore the onion production has come down in Dambulla. 10. The final statement I can get regular counselling and advice on the diseases in the seeds has given a mean value of 1.85 which signifies that the onion farmers do not get regular counselling and advice on new diseases affecting the onion cultivation. Therefore, they are unable to protect the onion cultivation and ensure higher growth. Table 4.2 Mean and standard deviation values for the statements in the fertilizer availability: Statements Mean SD I get the fertilizer subsidy from government 2.20 .92 I can buy fertilizer from Government Agricultural Department 2.14 .85 I can buy fertilizer from the private outlets at a less price 2.18 .99 I can get high quality fertilizer 2.20 .94 I get advice and counselling on the application of fertilizer 2.15 .93 I get different variety of fertilizers 2.24 .84 I get fertilizer that can maximize the harvest 2.12 .96 I can store the excess fertilizer for future use 2.09 .92Source Survey Data 11. As in Table 4.2 the onion cultivators have indicated lower level of satisfaction on all statements of fertilizer availability because the mean in all comes under the category of 1 2.33. 12. Thus the first statement I get the fertilizer subsidy from government has taken a mean value of 2.20 and this means that the onion farmers do not get fertilizer subsidy to buy the fertilizer and this leads towards less onion cultivation. 13. Similarly the second statement I can buy fertilizer from the Government Agricultural Department. has taken a mean value of 2.14 and this falls under the lower level of satisfaction. This reflects that the farmers are unable to purchase fertilizer from the agricultural department and has limited capacity of increasing their production. 14. Third statement I can buy the fertilizer from private outlets at a less price has taken a mean value of 2.18 stating that the onion farmers cannot buy fertilizer at a less price from other outside outlets. Therefore, it has affected their capacity of the onion cultivation. 15. Next statement I can get high quality fertilizer has taken a mean value of 2.20 which represents that the onion farmers are finding difficulties in purchasing fertilizer that can maximize their harvest and it has reduced the onion cultivation. 16. 5th statement I get advice and counselling on the application of fertilizer has given a mean value of 2.15, indicating that the farmers are unable to get advise and counselling on how to use different varieties of fertilizer. This has limited the onion cultivation in Dambulla. 17. 6th statement I get different variety of fertilizer has obtained a mean value of 2.24 which indicates that the onion cultivators are unable to find different varieties and new varieties of fertiliser that stimulate more harvest. As a result the onion cultivation has been less in the Dambulla area. 18. 7th statement I get fertilizer that can maximize the harvest has received a mean value of 2.12 and it means that the onion farmers are unable to find fertiliser that can give the optimal harvest and this has affected the onion cultivation from Dambulla. 19. The final statement I can store excess fertilizer for future use has given a mean value of 2.09 which indicates that the onion farmers do not have facilities of storage and keeping fertilizer for future use. Therefore, their fertilizer utilization is not optimal. Therefore the onion cultivation has been limited in Dambulla. CHAPTER FIVE FINDINGS/RESULTS 1. This chapter provides the findings and the discussions. It presents the mean and the standard deviation of the two factors contributing to the onion cultivation. Table 5.1 Values of mean and standard deviation