External Environment Analysis Kraft Foods Essay

In the every changing and expanding food industry it is imperative organizations conduct strategic marketing to remain on top of their industry and make better plans for their future. Strategic marketing drives organizations to their peak of success and draws customer loyalty. The Porter Five Analysis and PEST analysis are two of the tools utilized by strategist to enhance organizational success. The Porter Five model examines the internal workings of the organization as well as the industry letting organizations know about potential threats. The PEST analysis on the other hand examines the macro-environment, looking at potential political and social threats to industry. The utilization of these two models together will better equip organizations to face ever changing industries and see potential threats. Below the author will discuss the different aspect of each model as well as provide useful web links to gather additional information. Porter Five Forces Analysis The Porter Five Analysis was developed by Michael Porter as a tool utilized by organizations to help identify the structure and competitiveness within an industry (Porter, 2008). It encompasses five different forces that shape the industry; threat of new entrants, threat of substitute products, bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers and rivalry among existing competitors (Porter). The ability to analyze and understand trends and threats within an industry is critical for â€Å"effective strategic planning† that will render organizational success (Porter). Below is an analysis of Kraft Foods utilizing the Porter Five analysis model. Buyer Power With so many different varieties of brands available to consumers it is essential that organizations research consumer needs and demands in order to remain successful. As competition increases within the industry,  organizations must â€Å"create new products that adapt to the changing lifestyles and preferences of consumers, which have shifted to a focus on health and wellness† (Hathaway, Mrak-Blumberg, Wexler-Beron, 2006). Consumers have no loyalty or obligation to stay with one brand and will easily switch as prices and nutritional labels fit their needs. Conducting analysis of competitor’s financial statements will also help paint a picture of consumer trends helping organizations to adjust their products. Below are several websites that provide different information on the power that consumers hold. 1. This website discusses some very important facts relating to the immense power that consumers possess in the food industry and how the demand for healthy food is increasing the price of raw materials resulting in organizations absorbing the overhead costs to keep prices low. It also provides some information of Kraft Foods biggest competitors. Analysis of competitors can help strategists determine future marketing strategies and how to establish brand loyalty. Monitoring competition allows for change and adaptability permitting one to stay on top of their industry by tailoring products to consumer needs/demands. 2. This website provides information that describes the growing demands of consumers and the growth of the healthy food craze. This website really demonstrates the power that consumers hold in the food industry. Consumers are mandating healthy food choices with no GMO labeling. This has caused organizations to generate new products that are healthy and cater to consumer needs if they are to stay successful. Analyzing consumer trends is extremely important as it will allow a business to better tailor their food products and draw in new consumers and maintain loyalty of old consumers. http://www.inspirationgreen.com/vote-yes-on-37.html Supplier Power Although there are only ten major suppliers for Kraft Foods they have extreme power over the food industry. Walmart is one of Kraft Foods largest clients with the most revenue generated and with so many competitors on the market Kraft Foods must absorb the additional costs of producing cheap food in order to stay competitive. An individual supplier must â€Å"offer something  special to stand out from the crowd, such as a lower price, faster delivery time, more flexible credit terms, higher product quality or volume discounts† (Sullivan, n.d.) 1. This article provides a thorough discussion and different view point on supplier power and monopoly in the food industry. It provides a discussion on how big organizations, such as Wal-Mart, exert their power over their suppliers. Different suppliers have monopolies at supermarkets and can pay for primary shelf space and promote their brands. This leads to smaller suppliers struggling in an industry dominated by large supply compani es and large retailers. http://documents.foodandwaterwatch.org/doc/RetailConcentration-web.pdf 2. Pratt provides a good discussion on how to analyze the bargaining power of suppliers. Understanding the questions he poses will enable an organization to potentially avoid competition and build quality relationships with suppliers thus enhancing chances of industry success. http://ezinearticles.com/?Understanding-the-Bargaining-Power-of-Your-Suppliers&id=4251948 3. This informative website provides a list of the Kraft Foods suppliers. Determining the number of suppliers in an industry can help strategist determine the bargaining power of the suppliers. In hard times suppliers can ration their products causing organizations to spend more money upfront and lose revenues. When an organization is able to differentiate their product from competitors it is easier for them to bargain with suppliers for fair pricing. http://www.dailytrader.com/ss-kraft-foods/suppliers.html Threats of Entrants When an industry is booming the threat of new entrants is high as everyone wants to make profits. The threat of new organizations creates competition among an industry and influences their ability to maintain profits (Wilkinson, 2013). Firms in this industry preserve market share through brand loyalty, diversification and the barriers placed within the industry to enter the market (Porter, 2008). It is therefore imperative that these brands maintain quality at a competitive price and drive off new competition. 1. The following website points out the current economy/industry sales for Kraft Foods and their top competitors. This is a good website as it will paint a picture for future companies as to the  market capital, net income, dividends, operating margin and growth revenue. All of which are great indicators as to expenses and revenue generated and allows them to determining if starting a business in this industry is worth the overhead, time and effort. It can also help determine how different products by different companies are comparing to each other. http://financials.morningstar.com/competitors/industry-peer.action?t=KRFT ®ion=usa&culture=en-US 2. This web page provides a table with Kraft Foods top competitors broken down by categories allowing easy access to different aspects of the business. This also allows potential companies to determine which industry they would have the most impact in to succeed. Additionally it provides revenue, income and market share. http://csimarket.com/stocks/competitionSEG2.php?code=KRFT 3. NASDAQ is a great reference for organizations looking at trends in the food industry as it provides information on the financial, size and growth trends as well as market cap. This information is essential to determine if an organization can compete in certain industries. http://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/krft/competitors 4. This informative document discusses current economic indicators and the growth of the food industry over the last 10 years. It talks about nature of the industry, market overview, demand and annual food spending at home. Additionally it provides a discussion on the issues affecting the industry. This resource will help paint a vivid picture of the economy of the industry and help determine if a new product will succeed. http://trade.gov/td/ocg/report08_processedfoods.pdf Threat of Substitutes The growing health trends have led many companies to adapt and change products to fit consumer demands. With a variety of brands available it is imperative organizations cater to consumers in order to avoid losing their loyalty to another company. â€Å"Consumers in the industry have minimal switching costs and there is never the guarantee of brand loyalty† (Hathaway, Mrak-Blumberg, Wexler-Beron, 2006). In order to keep loyal consumers organizations in this industry must offer new and innovative  products. 1. This document provides valuable information on consumer trends, healthy eating, industry dynamic, emerging products, and success factors. This valuable information helps organizations determine current trends and how they can adapt to remain successful and ahead of their competition within the industry. http://www.pwc.com/us/en/transaction-services/publications/assets/functional-foods.pdf 2. This is a very informative website that discusses current trends in the food industry while stating growth percentages specifically relating to the healthy snacking options. This is a good site to gain a better understanding and insight to healthy alternatives that competitors may be producing as well as market trends http://www.snackandbakery.com/articles/84475-snack-food-industry-trends 3. Organic Trade Association website provides information on industry statistics and projected growth trends which is can assist organizations in determining their future products based on consumer trends. http://www.ota.com/organic/mt/business.html Rivalry Among Existing Competitors In every industry there is rivalry amongst organizations to win over consumers. This can generate new and innovative products, intense sales promotions and pricing wars (Porter, 2008). On the outside this activities may appear to be beneficial but in reality it can lead to increased costs and decreased profits for organizations (Porter). 1. CSI Market online provides a nice graph detailing growth rates of the major competitors in the food industry. This is an extremely useful tool to help determine where you stand financially next to your competition. Utilizing this information may assist in determining if a new product should be launched and if new marketing tactics are needed. http://csimarket.com/stocks/competitionNO3.php?code=KRFT 2. If an organization is to remain successful and on top of their organization they must produce numerous products that cater to consumer demands, i.e healthy food choices. This innovative thinking keeps consumers coming back to the same brands and generates loyalty. http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/04/22/these-food-companies-are-the  -best-at-inspiring-bra.aspx PEST Analysis PEST analysis tool was developed by Francis Aguilar to help organization see the macro-environment of their business environment in order to make changes and maximize financial success (Mind Tools, n.d.). The ability to adapt and change business tactics to meet consumer demands can create new and improved products enhancing brand loyalty (Mind Tools). The PEST analysis focuses on political, economic, socio-cultural, and technological changes in the industry, helping organizations to determine different opportunities (Mind Tools). Political 1. This website provides information on regulations of the food industry, agricultural industry and federal regulations. Understanding the political implications and regulations of the food industry will assist with licensing and production of food products. It is imperative to know and understand these regulations in order to become and remain a successful and well respected brand. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs118 2. Harris provides a great article discussing government regulations for the food industry, to include agencies and their regulation methods. Knowing the correct process and FDA regulations will help bolster an organization while gain respect and trust from consumers. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/government-regulations-food-industry-76884.html 3. With the growing health trends the FDA has started enforcing stricter food labeling. This labeling ensures â€Å"stringent guidelines to maintain the integrity of the food label† (Philipson, 2005). Additionally this provides accurate information to consumers and allows them to make healthy educated decisions regarding the food they consume. http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/82/1/262S.full Economic 1. Yahoo Finance provides data on the economic conditions of the food industry as well as a forecast of the growth prospects. This information is valuable to organizations as it can assist in determining present and future growth trends, revenues and specific growth regions.  http://finance.yahoo.com/news/food-beverage-business-confidence-report-130100393.html 2. The FDA addresses the need for government involvement in food safety in order to strengthen consumer confidence thus enhancing food industry growth. It is also a tool that can be utilized to determine how globalization is affecting the economic environment (Mind Tools, n.d.). http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/ucm326870.htm 3. Organic Trade Association provides a website with information on the economy of the growing organic food trend. The needs and demands of the consumers for healthier food options has driven many food industry organizations to reexamine their line of products and begin producing healthier food options. The demands of the consumers must be met in order for an organization to succeed. It is also important to consider the economic impact these changes can have on our environment and make sure we leave a positive footprint. http://www.ota.com/organic/mt/business.html Social 1. Over the last several years the food industry has had to adapt to the growing health conscious population and produce more healthy food alternatives. Understanding FDA regulations of labeling and marking and serving sizes on products will gain consumers trust that the products they are consumer are in line with a healthy life style. The social taboo of mislabeled or healthy food could potentially damage an organization. http://www.newsmaxhealth.com/Health-News/food-labels-fda-changes/2014/02/27/id/555199/ 2. Yahoo Finance provides an article discussing the importance of meeting the demands of the consumers in order to generate profits. Consumers are not only looking for healthy alternative in the grocery store but in restaurants too. There is an increased demand for nutritious organic fresh food in restaurants. Organizations must weigh the benefits between producing fresh products and providing affordable foods. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/health-wealth-food-beverage-industry-13 2935034.html Technological 1. Emerson discusses the evolution of technology in the food industry and how is has helped organizations to produce healthier and fresher food. Utilization of technology can allow organizations to produce large  quantities and variety of products thus catering to a larger consumer population and decreasing organizational costs. http://www.insidetechnology360.com/index.php/how-technology-has-affected-the-food-industry-22970/ 2. This website discusses the importance of evolving technology to running a successful business. Improved technology and software advances over the years have allowed for food industry organizations to make reordering of food and supplier easier and more convenient. These technologies can monitor refrigeration temperatures, energy usage helping to ensure the best food is available for the consumers. When consumers know that organizations go to extra measures to ensure product quality it generates brand loyalty and increased revenues. 3. Gould presents a very informative article regarding the importance of technology in the food industry. The use of technology assists with â€Å"decision making related to consumer insight, brand and product management and pricing† allowing organizations to maximize consumer needs and wants.   4. One new technology in the food industry is the utilization of biotechnology to increase efficiency of production and reduce environmental impact with increase production. This very informative slide show discusses the pros and cons of this innovative technology. In order to meet the growing health requirements by consumers it is beneficial for organizations to understand what technology their competitors are utilizing.   Conclusion If an organization is to succeed it is imperative a thorough analysis of the industry and environment is conducted. Utilization of the Porter Five Analysis will provide organizations with information on the internal and immediate threats to their organization. The PEST analysis on the other hand provides information on the marco-environment allowing organizations to focus on new opportunities for growth and success and see potential threats to the industry. Although both of these methods have different focuses,  when utilized together a significant amount of information in generated that will guide an organization on the path to a successful and profitable future. References Hathaway, J., Mrak-Blumberg, E., Wexler-Beron, E. (2006, April 4). Strategic Report for TheKraft Foods Corporation. Pandora Group Out of the Box Consulting. Retrieved July 23,2014 fromhttp://economicsfiles.pomona.edu/jlikens/SeniorSeminars/pandora/reports/kraft.pdf Mind Tools. (n.d.). PEST Analysis. Retrieved July 24, 2014 fromhttp://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTMC_09.htm Philipson, T. (2005). Government Perspective: Food Labeling 1,2,3. The American Journal ofClinical Nutrition, 82. Retrieved July 23, 2014 fromhttp://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/82/1/262S.full Porter, M. (2008, January). The Five Competitive Forces that Shape Strategy. Harvard BusinessReview. Retrieved July 23, 2014 from http://hbr.org/2008/01/the-five-competitive-forcesthat-shape-strategy/ar/1 Sullivan, D. (n.d.). Food Industry: The Bargaining Power of Suppliers. Chron Small Business.Retrieved July 24, 2014 from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/fast-food-industrybargaining-power-suppliers-78188.html

Brand Consciousness Among Teenagers Essay

Mass media is media which is intended for a large audience. It may take the form of broadcast media, as in the case of television and radio, or print media, like newspapers and magazines. Internet media can also attain mass media status, and many mass media outlets maintain a web presence to take advantage of the ready availability of Internet in many regions of the world. Some people also refer to the mass media as the â€Å"mainstream media,† referencing the fact that it tends to stick to prominent stories which will be of interest to a general audience, sometimes ignoring controversial breaking news. Many people around the world rely on the mass media for news and entertainment, and globally, mass media is a huge industry. Usually, mass media aims to reach a very large market, such as the entire population of a country. By contrast, local media covers a much smaller population and area, focusing on regional news of interest, while specialty media is provided for particular demographic groups. The advantage of running operation in mass media is that one can set up a platform of medium to disseminate favorable message. The advantage of attacking mass media is that one can build up his/her reputation for being less biased and more objective. The advantage of co-operating with mass media is that one can ease the worries of being â€Å"black mouthed† by media organizations. The advantage of buying corporate engaged in mass media is that one can get a big asset for negotiation with political parties and the government. Disadvantages of mass media Well I believe it comes down to the parents or guardians to begin with. Of course younger generations shouldn’t be watching as much TV if at all. Most of the primetime shows and stations are becoming more and more passive on what not to show. Having younger children subjected to nudity, cursing, sexual immorality, drinking and other negative adult oriented material is of course unsuitable, heck even unsuitable for adults at times. If the parents let their children watch inappropriate shows on TV I’m sure studies have shown the likelihood of these children being involved in such problems later on in life.

Hbc: from Fur to Fendi

1. Describe at least three strategies used by HBC prior to its sale to Zucker and NRDC. 3 different strategies used by HBC prior to its sale to Zucker and NRDC are:Creating a new rewards program that would allow customers to receive rewards based on the purchases they made. This strategy would then induce customer to buy more products and then receive some sort of compensation for it.Next strategy which they had used but did not fare as well was known as â€Å"reduced focus on steep discounts†. Early in 2001, it tried to reinvent itself with a more fashionable image.The final strategy was to provide customers with online shopping. This would allow customers to view and purchase products in the comfort of their own home2. Describe at least three strategies HBC adopted since the sale. Different strategies HBC has adopted since the sale were to:1) The first strategy was to focus on retracting customers by dropping over 60% of its former brands2) Another strategy was to relaunch t he â€Å"Room†, a plush VIP suite at one of its Toronto locations, with high-end designers such as Armani, Ungaro, and Chanel3) HBC also become the official sponsor for the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver. They had become the official outfitter of the Canadian Olympics team and the only provider of any Olympic brand merchandise3. Categorize the above strategies in to either business- or corporate-level strategiesBusiness Strategies:Giving customers Online ShoppingStarting a rewards programA focus on retracting customers by dropping over 60% of its former brandsCorporate Strategies:Reduced focus on steep discountsThey relauched the â€Å"Room†, a plush VIP suite with high end designersBecame official outfitter of the Canadian Olympics team and the only provider of any Olympic brand merchandiseReferencesSchermerhorn Jr. , John, and Barry Wright.Management Second Canadian Edition  . 2nd. Mississauga: Wiley, 2011. Print. Hbc: from Fur to Fendi 1. Describe at least three strategies used by HBC prior to its sale to Zucker and NRDC. 3 different strategies used by HBC prior to its sale to Zucker and NRDC are:Creating a new rewards program that would allow customers to receive rewards based on the purchases they made. This strategy would then induce customer to buy more products and then receive some sort of compensation for it.Next strategy which they had used but did not fare as well was known as â€Å"reduced focus on steep discounts†. Early in 2001, it tried to reinvent itself with a more fashionable image.The final strategy was to provide customers with online shopping. This would allow customers to view and purchase products in the comfort of their own home2. Describe at least three strategies HBC adopted since the sale. Different strategies HBC has adopted since the sale were to:1) The first strategy was to focus on retracting customers by dropping over 60% of its former brands2) Another strategy was to relaunch t he â€Å"Room†, a plush VIP suite at one of its Toronto locations, with high-end designers such as Armani, Ungaro, and Chanel3) HBC also become the official sponsor for the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver. They had become the official outfitter of the Canadian Olympics team and the only provider of any Olympic brand merchandise3. Categorize the above strategies in to either business- or corporate-level strategiesBusiness Strategies:Giving customers Online ShoppingStarting a rewards programA focus on retracting customers by dropping over 60% of its former brandsCorporate Strategies:Reduced focus on steep discountsThey relauched the â€Å"Room†, a plush VIP suite with high end designersBecame official outfitter of the Canadian Olympics team and the only provider of any Olympic brand merchandiseReferencesSchermerhorn Jr. , John, and Barry Wright.Management Second Canadian Edition  . 2nd. Mississauga: Wiley, 2011. Print.

Science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Science - Essay Example Once in the sea, they typically stay there around 4 years before returning up the rivers they came from to spawn. 3. Wildebeast – nomadic migration, performed by wildebeasts as a function of seeking out new grazing and better sources of drinking water; this typically is a relatively short migratory route. Occurs on a seasonal basis and is dependent upon the quality of grass and the availability of water within the affected regions. Other species such as the impala accompany the wildebeasts in this mass migration pattern. 4. Humback Whales – seasonal migration. Humpback whales spend the winter months in warmer climates while during the summers they hunt for krill and small fish in polar climates. Performed on a seasonal/yearly basis; this typically is a relatively long migratory route. Humpback whales are known not to eat while in the warmer waters closer to the equator during the winter months. 5. Dall Sheep – altitudinal migration. Dall sheep typically spend the winter months in lower elevations where they can dig through the snow to find patches of existing grass. However, once the summer months appear, they climb back up into higher elevations; both for protection and due to the fact that food is also abundantly available there; this typically is a relatively short migratory route. ... The average arctic tern lives about 20 years and during this time can cover over 1.5 million miles! 7. Golden Eagles-partial migration. The golden eagles ultimately a bird that exhibits a partial migration in the fact that not each and every one of the species leaves it habitat as part of the migration. The migration itself is a medium to long migratory route that has as its purpose breeding in the sub Arctic regions of Alaska and Canada; returning to warmer climates once the summer is at an end. The golden eagle is the emblem of perhaps more countries than any other animal. It is officially the emblem of Albania, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Austria, and Germany. 8. Sea Turtles (pick any one of the 8 species) – reproductive migration. Green sea turtles travel vast distances from their feeding grounds to the beaches that they will ultimately deposit their eggs upon. Currently, green sea turtles, like the other sea turtles, are endangered due to human activity and the overall lack of en vironmental conditions that they can lay their eggs unadulterated. 9. Locusts – is a type of animal that exhibits an interruptive migration. These migrations are incumbent upon the region that the locust is in and the availability of the food source within this region. The distances traveled are usually not as far as many of the other species that have been discussed. Locust migration has been known to cause vast amounts of damage and ultimately the deaths of tens of thousands of people throughout history as the result of famine caused by the destruction in crops and grassland that they can effect. 10. Great Gray Owls- are indicative of a nomadic migration. The nomadic patterns of the great grey owl are little understood;

Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 7000 words

Case Study Example It was launched in 2008 November and has since grown significantly since then. The website was founded focusing on collective buying power. Today it serves over 150 markets locally and over 100 additional markets all over the world. Today it has more than 150 million subscribers around the world and over $ 4 billion dollars in revenue (Kim, Lee, & Park, 2013). As an internet application, the platform must ensure that it has a competitive advantage over other online platforms. Ensuring that users have a way of adding their own data to what the platform provides is significant because it enables participation that could market the platform further. The platform has harnessed a collective intelligence by creating architecture of participation for the users both implicitly and explicitly. For instance, the website provides discounts of products manufactured by different companies throughout its markets. To ensure that these companies directly interact with customers, the website has provided a way of customers interacting with these manufacturers by providing a way for customers to use discounted gift certificates in local or national companies. This puts the customers in a position to directly make comments about the products they buy to the companies and improve product quality. The platform has also provided a way for customers to put comm ents in the website about the services they receive. The platform has also done this by allowing merchants to put their won description and products. This platform depends significantly on the experiences of consumers with respect to the services they get and on the experiences of the companies that they deal with. Any negative experience could affect the platform detrimentally. Therefore, harnessing collective intelligence is key to the platforms continued success and to ensure that negative experiences are resolved with immediate effect to ensure that the company is not brought down. Harnessing collective

Dunkin Group INC Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Dunkin Group INC - Research Paper Example Customers are able to enjoy services in Philippines, Guatemala and over other regions. The organization has been able to meet the demand of these markets due to some strength in their operation. It has been able to meet its customers tastes by providing it quality products. Its communication network has made it easier for the franchise to meet various customers requests. In respects to it products, since inception the franchise manages two units. One of its units refers to the Dunkin donut branch. The other branch relates to its branches representing Basken-Robbins operational unit. For the last 120 years, Dunkin donut unit has been providing restaurant like services to customers. It concentrates in providing products such as muffin, bagel donut and coffee. Basken Robbins on the other hand specializes in refrigerated products. This franchise has been instrumental in providing ice cream products. Dunkin Donuts has over 11000 branches all over the globe. The franchise further branches in 33 countries. It is also imperative to note that the franchise has the capacity of making up to $7billion. Dunkin brand Inc has two subsidiary branches all over the market. The firms income as in the year 2011 was $ 34.442 its revenue was $628.198 in that year. On the other hand, its total assets as at the end of that year were at$3.2224 billion. The mission of Dunkin Inc is to provide services and products to the community. The organization conducts this function by ensuring that the basic need of the society comes to fulfillment. The firm provides products for the hungry under partnership with other organization. Some of the organizations that collaborate with the franchise include those organizations providing relief food items. Moreover, it is part of the organizations agenda to provide safety to the community. Dunkin Inc provides these services through partnerships. The organization collaborates with troops, firefighters and other security service providing

Teamwork Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Teamwork - Essay Example Teamwork In organizations in which cohesiveness is present within team settings the members of the team display greater motivation. These employees value the time they spend with their co-workers. There is a lower employee turnover and lower absenteeism in companies with cohesive team units. A cohesive team unit is not achieved overnight; it takes time for employees to build trust in each other. It is more likely to cohesiveness to manifest itself when group members are similar in age, attitudes, needs and backgrounds (Schermerhorn, et al. 2003, p.202). Another factor that is favorable to achieve cohesiveness is to creating small size teams. The optimum size of a team is between four and seven members (Yeatts & Hyten, 1998). When a group is too big it becomes difficult to the member to build close relationships with each other, thus cohesiveness is harder to achieve. Creating cohesiveness within a team is important, but from an organizational perspective cohesiveness is only attractive if it enables the firm to a higher work performance. A way to determine if cohesiveness is adding value to a company is by measuring the match of cohesiveness with performance norms. If a specific work team has a high degree of cohesiveness, but the performance of the team has not improved over time or has declined then it is possible that cohesiveness is having a negative impact on the work output of the team unit.

Dualism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Dualism - Essay Example It must be noted that dualist principles attribute almost equal powers to the opposing forces, whose balance is critical for the existence of the world. Even man, when considered as a microcosm can be considered under the principles of Dualism. Often philosophers have propounded theories that have maintained that man is a unique self, who is governed by a higher self. Descartes also proposed the concept of dualism in his philosophy. He has explained his concept of dualism in detail so that it makes sense to his readers who may be inclined to approach philosophy with a critical and analytical mind. Descartes acknowledges the existence of a spiritual reality, which he calls God, that exists beyond the plane of the human mind and intelligence. He also stresses that the mind, body, and intelligence and entities that are distinct from the supreme reality, which is the cause of the universe. Hence, he says that God and the human mind are different entities and that the entity called God is the causative reason for the mind, which is again controlled by the entity called God. Descartes developed his idea of dualism in similar lines to how Aristotle developed his views on philosophy. Descartes questioned his very senses and existence and tried to derive solutions from the doubts that arose in his mind. This sequence of questioning and answering helped him to derive his philosophy, which was developed on the basis of sequential negation and analysis. Descartes proceeds in this manner to derive the logic that his mind and body are two different substances. He finds that it is possible for him to doubt the existence of his body, without doubting his own existence. Hence, he must be a mind distinct from a body. Expanding on the existence of the body and the substances that make it up, he argues that each substance is similar to his body. They extend into space, are divisible, and obey

Amy Tan's The joy Luck Club Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Amy Tan's The joy Luck Club - Essay Example At first it seems that these disparate stories have nothing in common, except the conflict between two cultures - they are just a figment of some not very happy ladies’ experiences. However, during the process of reading, the pictures complement one another and stories, which were supposed to be autonomous, are connected by a thin thread. The author also concerns â€Å"the nature of mother-daughter relationships, which are complicated not only by age difference, but by different upbringings. The issues of self-respect, personal identity are also highlighted in the novel† ("BookRags Book Notes on") . The young mothers who arrived to America create a club for meeting and communication. At these meetings, they eat Chinese food, play board game mahjongg, talk. Each of them experienced some heavy losses in the past. But instead plunging into the painful memories of those losses, they prefer coming together for mutual support, material and spiritual. They all share a hope for the future, so they called themselves The Joy Luck Club. It is obvious, that is extremely difficult, and even impossible for the senior generation, to get accustomed to new American culture, to leave behind their usual Chinese lifestyles. â€Å"American circumstances but Chinese character†¦ How could I know these two things do not mix?† (Tan 15: 254), - this question bothered not only Lindo, but the rest of mothers. The women of older generation, â€Å"Old World fossils† (Tan 2: 89), are in the state of permanent cultural shock. The gap between the American and Chinese cultures is supposed to be insurmountable. When one of the women dies, her daughter Jing-mei was invited to take mother’s place at the mahjongg table. The daughters know only about their mothers’ lives in America, but they never told about what kind of life their parent had in China. As one of the young girls states, -"Over the years, she told me the same story, except for the ending, which grew darker, casting long shadows into her life, and eventually into mine."(Tan 1: 21). And if the main task for the older generation was to assimilate into the new environment, for American-born children it was a problem to overcome feelings of shame for their parents being immigrants. Jing-mei feels uneasy in the company of all these Chinese â€Å"aunties†; the young girl taking her mother’s place at the table, which is contrary to her own desire, â€Å"symbolizes the very generation and cultural gap between children and parents† ("BookRags Book Notes on"). Conversations of June and Suyuen testifies to the fact that it was a torture to come to understanding. â€Å"My mother and I never really understood one another. We translated each other's meanings and I seemed to hear less than what was said, while my mother heard more† (Tan 2: 27) Thus, a reader understands that â€Å"there is also a communication barrier between mothers and daughters† ("BookRags Book Notes on"). The mothers are eager to raise their daughters according to their traditions and worldviews, -â€Å"†¦Only two kind of daughters. Those who are obedient and those who follow their own mind! Only one kind of daughter can live in this house. Obedient daughter!" (Tan 8: 142)† The young girls rebel against such intentions; they do not want to be oppressed and do not want their

Free will Vs. Determinism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Free will Vs. Determinism - Essay Example the power to make decisions, take steps and establish a specific code of conduct regarding their activities related to the personal and professional obligations without any natural and social impediments or hurdles. Consequently, causality of change and movement is reliant of people’s personal ambitions and aspirations. On the contrary, determinism vehemently focuses upon the very principle that man is dependent of some external forces in all his activities, and these external forces, related to past and present, determine his future actions, conducts and the fate as well. Since both these terms have direct connection with individual and collective life of the people, their study is certainly of vital importance for comprehending with and exploration of natural and social phenomenon existing in the universe at large. Belief in supernatural powers as well as metaphysical objects is also contingent to the intellectual investigation of the scope and magnitude of free will and det erminism. The question arises why the issue of free will vs. determinism is the problem. Since philosophers and theorists appear to be at conflict on the issue, and have presented their notions in favor of as well as against free will and determinism, it has invited the curiosity of the thinkers for the further investigation of the topic. In addition, though the theorists including Halboch, Campbell, James and others have attempted to reject Schlick’s theory of free will, yet none of them could articulate the alternate framework contrary to that of Moritz Schlick; nor the theorists could managed to give solution to nullify the free will in a comprehensive way. It is therefore the debate still serves as a moot point even this day. Another reason for being this issue a problem includes the imperative significance of the subject, which maintains direct relationship with the disciplines related to logic, philosophy, human psychology and political science. Several theories have been

Implementation of the Hand-off Communication Tool Assignment

Implementation of the Hand-off Communication Tool - Assignment Example They typically occur during shift changes. Inadequate communication has been cited as a major cause of medical errors (Reisenberg, Leitzsch, & Cunningham, 2010). Researchers who were exploring the causes and nature of human error in intensive care settings found out that verbal communication between nurse and physicians contributed to 37% of medical errors (Reisenberg, Leitzsch, & Cunningham, 2010). In an Australian study, more than 14,000 admissions were investigated. The study revealed that approximately 17% of the cases had an adverse event closely associated to it. Among the 17% of the cases, 11 percent were attributed to communication errors (Reisenberg, Leitzsch, & Cunningham, 2010). According to TRICARE (2005), the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) requires that institutions of healthcare ought to implement a standardized approach to handoff communications in an effort to meet the ever growing need of patient safety. Current Scenario The cur rent tool in use has been associated with a number of delays. Nurses would file reports indicating that beds were not ready; patients missed their medication, nurses themselves not being ready and the absence of vital patient information. A questionnaire was submitted to healthcare personnel in an effort determine the cause of the delays. ... In other clinical nursing scenarios, many errors have been identified that have resulted from communication problems. For instance omission of critical information as a result of poor communication between healthcare personnel, miscommunication that has results in misunderstanding of information, inability of the receiving nurse to contact the ongoing nurse due to communication problems, use of communication tools like reports that often become too routine and result in loss of focus by many healthcare personnel (Ong, &Coiera, 2011). Other problems arising due to absence of standard communication procedure include idle chatting during handoffs that dilutes the importance of handoffs, illegible handwriting in reports, reports with judgmental statements, absence of research on handoffs and data that is in support of best practices, ethnic, cultural and racial barriers which interfere with communication channels, language barriers that frustrate efforts to communicate effectively, and s taff who resist change that comes with implementation of new routines (Reisenberg, Leitzsch, & Cunningham, 2010). Implementation I pass the baton is a technique that was designed with a primary purpose of streamlining the handoff process and have a well established and standardized means of communication. The main idea behind the use of this tool is to minimize information loss and more importantly ensure that exchange of information occurs in a timely manner and with a high level of accuracy. The culture and needs of a healthcare institution often dictate how the technique will be utilized. I pass the baton stands for I-introduction, P-patient, A- assessment, S-situation, S-safety concerns, B-background, A-actions, T-timing, O-ownership, N-next. This tool requires that a

Alice Walker Essay Example for Free

Alice Walker Essay This story is distinctive, however, in that Walker stresses not only the importance of language but also the destructive effects of its misuse. Clearly, Dee privileges language over silence, as she demonstrates in her determination to be educated and in the importance she places on her name. Rather than providing a medium for newfound awareness and for community, however, verbal skill equips Dee to oppress and manipulate others and to isolate herself; when she lived at home, she read to her sister and mother without pity; forcing words, lies, other folks habits, whole lives upon us, sitting trapped and ignorant underneath her voice. Mama recalls that Dee washed us in a river of make-believe, burned us with a lot of knowledge we didnt necessarily need to know. Pressed us to her with the serious way she read, to shove us away at just the moment, like dimwits, we seemed about to understand (50). Dee uses words to wash, burn, press, and shove. We are told that the nervous girls and furtive boys whom she regarded as her friends worshiped the well-turned phrase and her scalding humor that erupted like bubbles in lye (51). It is not surprising, then, that Mama, mistrustful of language, expresses herself in the climactic scene of the story not through words but through deeds: she hugs Maggie to her, drags her in the room where Dee sits holding the quilts, snatches the quilts from Dee, and dumps them into Maggies lap. Only as an afterthought does she speak at all, telling Dee to take one or two of the others. Mamas actions, not her words, silence the daughter who has, up to this point, used language to control others and separate herself from the community: Mama tells us that Dee turns and leaves the room without a word (59). In much of Walkers work, a characters dawning sense of self is represented not only by the acquisition of an individual voice but also through integration into a community. Mamas new appreciation of Maggie is significant because it represents the establishment of a sisterhood between mother and daughter. Just before taking the quilts out of Dees hands, Mama tells us, I did something I never had done before (58). The something to which she refers is essentially two actions: Mama embraces Maggie and says no to Dee for the first time. Since we are told that she held Maggie when she was burned in the fire, and since Mamas personality suggests that she would most likely hug her daughter often, she is of course referring not merely to the literal hug but to the first spiritual embrace, representing her decision no  longer to judge her younger daughter by the shallow standards Dee embodiescriteria that Mama has been using to measure both Maggie and herself up until the climax of the story. When Mama acts on Maggies behalf, she is responding to the largely nonverbal message that her younger daughter has been sending for some time, but which Mama herself has been unable fully to accept. Now Maggie and Mama are allied in their rejection of Dees attempts to devalue their lifestyle, and their new sense of community enables Maggie to smile a real smile, not scared. Significantly, the story ends with the two of them sitting in silence, just enjoying, until it was time to go in the house and go to bed (59). Ultimately, however. Mama has the last word: it is she, after all, who tells the story. Yet her control over the text is won gradually. Walker employs an unusual narrative structure to parallel Mamas development as she strengthens her voice and moves toward community with Maggie. Rather than reporting the entire event in retrospect, Mama relates the first half of the story as it occurs, using present and future tenses up until the moment Dee announces her new name. The commentary that Mama makes about herself and Maggie in the first portion of the story is therefore made before the awakening that she undergoes during the quilt episodebefore she is able to reject completely Dees desire that she and Maggie be something that they are not. Prior to the encounter with Dee over the quilts, although Mama at times speaks sarcastically about Dees selfish attitude, she nonetheless dreams repeatedly of appearing on a television program the way my daughter would want me to be: a hundred pounds lighter, my skin like an uncooked barley pancake, wielding a quick and witty tongue (48). Mamas distaste for Dees egotism is tempered by her desire to be respected by her daughter. In part, then, Mama has come to define herself in terms of her failure to meet the standards of what Lindsey Tucker calls a basically white middle-class identity (88)the white-male-dominated system portrayed in the television show. When Mama holds up her own strengths next to those valued by Dee and the white Johnny Carson society, she sees herself as one poised always in a position of fear, with one foot raised in flight (49).

Negative Impact of Uneducated Women in Third World Countries

Negative Impact of Uneducated Women in Third World Countries Armed and Educated: Negative Impacts of Uneducated Women in Third World Countries as seen in Malala Yousafzais Memoir, I Am Malala As the Western society continues to progress, it is becoming increasingly evident that the barriers that once restricted and defied millions of women around the world, are slowly being deconstructed and reconstructed as society begins to change its views on gender parity and feminism. This is not only reflected in womens new roles and jobs within the Western society, but also in politics as women are now able to run and vote. On the other hand, despite the progress, millions of girls in non-Western developing areas such as South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, still continue to suffer severe disadvantages as they are often subjugated by men and stripped of their basic human rights. One of these basic rights includes the right to an education, yet, most girls in non-Western societies are excluded from the education systems throughout their lives. This is a huge problem as the lack of education is what is creating the barrier that prevents women from obtaining equality in society. Recent research and evidence has shown that education is one of the most critical areas of empowerment for a girl, overall leading to a healthier and more productive life. However, since their rights are taken away from birth, they lose the right to learn, grow, and succeed in life. In her memoir I Am Malala, Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest-ever winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, accurately depicts the struggles and negative impact of uneducated women in third world countries. There are many factors that contribute to a developing nations extremely low female literacy rate. One of the primary reasons for this is the lack of proper schooling facilities, qualified teachers, and/or teaching aids such as textbooks. This is especially true for girls living in more remote areas of the country. Additionally, in many parts of the developing world, the nearest school to a community might be a four to five-hour long walk. Apart from it being exhausting and time consuming, girls also face the threat of violence or sexual assault on the way to school. Thus, many parents opt to keep their daughters at home. According to UNESCOs regional overview on sub-Saharan Africa in 2013, more than 68% of the girls that do make the long journey to school everyday end up dropping out before they complete primary school (Stepp). Malala further supports this as she witnesses most of the children in refugee settlements were not going to school. Sometimes there was no school. Sometimes it was unsafe to walk to school. And sometimes children were working instead of being educated (Yousafzai XIX). Furthermore, another main reason why many families in developing countries choose not to educate their daughters is because they cannot afford it as there are a lot of costs associated with it. The cost of uniforms, textbooks, and schooling facilities can be too much to bear for a family living in poverty. For the families that can afford it however, boys are often favored to receive an education over girls. This is especially evident during Malalas trip to Nigeria when she discovers that many girls were [her] age and all had dreams of being doctors or teachers or scientistsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ but only 4 percent of girls in Northern Nigeria finish school (Yousafzai XVIII). Lastly, another reason for the lack of female education in developing countries is the cultural beliefs and gender norms of the society. In the male-dominated society, women are typically viewed as nothing m ore than the property of the men. Most cultures believe that a womens sole purpose is to serve the men of the house, do household chores, reproduce and care for the children while the man goes out to provide for the family. Due to these misguided gender norms, many girls do not have the opportunity to attend school because their contributions to the household are valued more than their personal education. These gender norms are extremely prevalent when Malala states that [she] was a girl born in a land where rifles are fired in celebration of a son, while daughters are hidden away behind a curtain, their role in life simply to prepare food and give birth to children (Yousafzai 13). In any case, millions of women in developing nations are unable to receive an education and this has several negative impacts on different aspects of womens lives. The negative effects that uneducated women have on their society include both personal and social factors. For starters, many women that are uneducated are more susceptible to early marriages usually against their will (in some cases girls as young as eight or ten). This results in millions of illiterate young girls without the appropriate tools to build healthy, educated families. The Voices of Youth organization stated that for every year a girl stays in school past fifth grade, her marriage is delayed a year (Madu). Similarly, Malala emphasizes this point when she states that à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦[parents] are just waiting for their daughters to be married off while the sons went to school (Yousafzai 29). This in turn, leads to most girls giving birth at an extremely young age, resulting in a higher mortality rate among young girls during child birth or simply because the child is unhealthy. Studies have shown that an extra year of schooling for girls also reduces fertility rates by 17% (Joshi). Secondly, uneducated women also have a lot of difficulty communicating and expressing themselves at home or in public. Doing simple tasks like reading signs or paying at the grocery store proves to be quite difficult for many young women as they have not had the opportunity to learn how to read. Malala relates a story of a young girl she saw selling oranges. She was scratching marks on a piece of paper with a pencil to account for the oranges she sold, as she could not read or write (Yousafzai 217). Lastly, the lack of educated people in developing countries is what allows educated people to exploit their ignorance. This is especially true of the government or religious leaders that use fear and ignorance to bring themselves to power or to have a huge portion of the population under their control. For example, several times throughout her memoir, Malala states that the lack of education is the root of all of Pakistans problems, and that ignorance allowed politicians to foo l people and bad administrators to be re-elected (Yousafzai 41). The government makes promises and manipulates people to the point where people are convinced that the corrupt authorities are fit to be in power. After elections, however, all the promises that are made are forgotten and the nation suffers for years before another election takes place and the same thing happens all over again. What is worse is using a natural disaster that devastated a nation to preach religious extremes. This is portrayed several times throughout Malalas memoir- after an earthquake struck Pakistan, religious leaders called Mullahs preached the earthquake was a warning from God. They said it was caused by womens freedom and obscenity. If we did not mend our ways and introduce Sharia or Islamic lawà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ more severe punishments would come (Yousafzai 107). Preaching misinterpreted verses from the Quran and exploiting the ignorance of people who did not understand Arabic worked well to their adva ntage as fear made it particularly easy to manipulate them. As can be seen, the lack of education has severe negative impacts which can easily be prevented if women are educated. Education has so many benefits, but lack thereof blinds people to the fact that knowledge is power and it is one of the most powerful weapons against mass manipulation and exploitation. Education, especially in developing countries, is extremely valuable as it can solve many of the countrys problems. Educating women of the country comes with its own list of benefits, most of which people are ignorant towards. Firstly, it is no secret that poverty and illiteracy go hand in hand. Research has shown that most illiterate women live in countries with increasing economic difficulties and enormous debt burdens (Madu). What citizens of developing countries refuse to acknowledge is that the solution lies in educating their women. When women are educated, it enables them to contribute to their countrys income as more women begin to join the labor force. According to UNICEF, when ten percent more women attend school, GDP increases by three percent on average (UNICEF.org). This may potentially abolish poverty and many of the other problems developing countries are faced with. Secondly, women who are well educated and receive an independent income will naturally find their voice not just in the family, but also within their society. In other words, women gain the self-confidence and courage they need to speak out and resist the injustice they see around them, or are facing themselves. This is directly reflected in Malala herself as she found her own voice growing up in [her] fathers school (Yousafzai 118). Knowledge is addicting and having the luxury of education from an early age left her craving for more, despite the threats of Mullahs and the Taliban. Thus, she continues to advocate for womens right to education. Furthermore, the role that educated mothers play in reducing infant and child mortality is profound. Results in Africa indicate a 40% in child survival for mothers with five years of primary education (Wade). This is because educated women tend to have fewer and healthier children. In addition to this, when women are educated, they are more likely to ensure that their children are also educated leading to a future generation that is well equipp ed to contribute to society. It is rightly said that investing in a girls education is investing in a nation. In fact, there is an African proverb that says, If we educate a boy, we educate one person. If we educate a girl, we educate a family- and a whole nation (Stepp). To conclude, education not only removes ignorance, but allows for women to unleash their full potential by becoming conscious, skilled and productive citizens. All in all, it is proven that educating women in developing countries is the solution to reducing the issue of gender parity as well as enabling womens full potential, while simultaneously boosting their developing nations economy. The proof lies not only in Malala Yousafzais memoir, I Am Malala, which accurately represents the struggles of uneducated women in developing countries, but also in the statistics that show the negative impacts of uneducated women as well as the benefits of education.   Educated women obtain the knowledge, skills, and self-confidence that they need to lead healthier, more productive lives while raising the standards of living for their families and communities. It is hard to believe that the solution lies in half the worlds population, yet so many leaders are oblivious to it or are refusing to change their methods. Works Cited Girls education and gender equality. Girls education and gender equality. UNICEF, 23 July 2015. Web. 23 Nov. 2016. https://www.unicef.org/education/bege_70640.html. Girls education: A lifeline to development. Girls education: A lifeline to development. UNICEF, 22 Mar. 2011. Web. 2 Nov. 2016. https://www.unicef.org/sowc96/ngirls.htm. Joshi, Mohit, Essay on Importance of Women Education. Essay on Importance of Women Education~. WOMEN EMPOWERMENT, 1970. Web. 13 Oct. 2016. http://hamroessay.blogspot.ca/2015/06/essay-important-of-women-education.html. Madu, Chima F. Education for Aspiring Young Women. Voices of Youth. 2013. Web. 12 Dec. 2016. http://www.voicesofyouth.org/en/posts/why-we-should-support-girls-4. Stepp, Lauren. Top 10 Reasons Why Female Education is Important-TBP. The Borgen Project. UNESCO, 2016. Web. 20 Dec. 2016. http://borgenproject.org/top-10-reasons-female-education-important/. Wade, Sarah. 5 Reasons You Should Care About Girls Education. United Nations Foundation.United Nations Foundation, 8 July 2013. Web. 17 Dec. 2016. http://www.unfoundation.org/blog/5-reasons.html. Yousafzai, Malala. I am Malala: the girl who stood up for education and was shot by the Taliban. New York, NY: Little, Brown, Company, 2013. Print. MLA formatting by http://bibme.org/ Bibliography Girls education and gender equality. Girls education and gender equality. UNICEF, 23 July 2015. Web. 23 Nov. 2016. https://www.unicef.org/education/bege_70640.html. Girls Education and Gender Equality. Global Partnership for Education. N.p., Sept. 2015. Web.20 Oct. 2016. http://www.globalpartnership.org/focus-areas/girls-education. Girls education: A lifeline to development. Girls education: A lifeline to development. UNICEF, 22 Mar. 2011. Web. 2 Nov. 2016. https://www.unicef.org/sowc96/ngirls.htm. Girls Education. Girls Education. The World Bank. n.d. Wev. 16 Dec. 2016. http://www.worldbank.org/en/tropic/girlseducation. Joshi, Mohit, Essay on Importance of Women Education. Essay on Importance of Women Education~. WOMEN EMPOWERMENT, 1970. Web. 13 Oct. 2016. http://hamroessay.blogspot.ca/2015/06/essay-important-of-women-education.html. Madu, Chima F. Education for Aspiring Young Women. Voices of Youth. 2013. Web. 12 Dec. 2016. http://www.voicesofyouth.org/en/posts/why-we-should-support-girls-4. Oneil, Micheal . Top 10 Facts You Dont Know About Girls Education. ABC News. ABC News Network, 7 Oct. 2013. Web. 7 Dec. 2016. http://abcnews.go.com/International/10-facts-girls-education/story?id=20474260. Roudi-Fahimi, Farzaneh, and Valentine M. Moghadam. Empowering Women, Developing Society: Female Education in the Middle East and North Africa. Empowering Women, Developing Society: Female Education in the Middle East and North Africa.   N.p., 2009. Web. 20 Dec. 2016. http://www.prb.org/Publications/Reports/2003/EmpoweringWomenDevelopingSocietyFemaleEducationintheMiddleEastandNorthAfrica.aspx Stepp, Lauren. Top 10 Reasons Why Female Education is Important-TBP. The Borgen Project. UNESCO, 2016. Web. 20 Dec. 2016. http://borgenproject.org/top-10-reasons-female-education-important/. The Worlds Women 2010: Trends and Statistics. United Nations Statistics Division Demographic and Social Statistics. United Nations, 12 Feb. 2011. Web. 4 Nov. 2016. http://unstats.un.org/unsd/demographic/products/Worldswomen/Executive%20summary.htm. Wade, Sarah. 5 Reasons You Should Care About Girls Education. United Nations Foundation.United Nations Foundation, 8 July 2013. Web. 17 Dec. 2016. http://www.unfoundation.org/blog/5-reasons.html. Yousafzai, Malala, and Christina Lamb. Free, safe, quality education is the right of every girl. The Malala Fund. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Dec. 2016. https://www.malala.org/girls-education. Yousafzai, Malala. I am Malala: the girl who stood up for education and was shot by the Taliban. New York, NY: Little, Brown, Company, 2013. Print.

Mind Body Relationship According To Descartes Philosophy Essay

Mind Body Relationship According To Descartes Philosophy Essay Mind and what it connotes is the battered offspring of the union of psychology. At some deep level we dearly love and cherish it and see behind its surface great potential but, because of our own inadequacies, we continuously abuse t, harshly and abruptly pummeling it for imagined excesses, and occasionally even lock it away in some dark closet where we cannot hear its insistent whines. The history of the use of the term reveals two conflicting impulses: the tendency to treat mind as a metaphysical mechanistic system, and the tendency to view it as convenient biological metaphor representing the manifestation of the, still not understood, neurophysiologic processes of the brain. The following are the more important and common uses of the term and this basic conflict can be seen in all. Mind as the totality of hypothesized mental processes and acts that may serve as explanatory devices for psychological data. In recent years this has become the dominant use of the term. Here, mental components are hypothesized because they have, in the proper theoretical frame, considerable explanatory power. Of interest here is the reluctance, even refusal, of about the neurophysiological structures to which it might relate. The focus is typically on the effectiveness of the hypothesized model of mind to explain- not merely studies. The most frequent users of this meaning are workers in artificial intelligence, modern cognitive psychologists and several schools of philosophy, e.g. functionalism. Mind as the totality of the conscious and unconscious mental experiences of an individual organism (usually although not always, a human organism). Actually, this use represents an effort to avoid the above-mentioned metaphysical problem but it produces a because of the confusion over how to characterize consciousness. Often even those with a behavioristic approach will back door themselves into speculating about mind in this fashion but they will invariably replace consciousness with behaviors and acts. Mind as a collection of processes. Probably the next most commonly held view, the argument here is that the several processes generally studied under the rubrics of perception and cognition collectively constitute mind. Here, there is no real effort to define; only to enumerate and to seek to understand those processes enumerated. Mind as equivalent to brain. This position which goes back to William James must in the final analysis be true. Its major liability, about brain function. As a result, it is philosophical position. Mind as an emergent property. The argument here is that of emergentism, that when a biological system reaches a point of sufficient complexity and organizational structure mind emerges. Mind as a list of synonyms. For example, psyche, soul, self etc. Nothing is gained by this use and the definitional problems are compounded. Mind as intelligence. Really only a colloquial use of the term as in phrases like, She has a good mind. Mind as a characteristic or trait. Also used nontechnical as in phrases like, the mind of an artist, or the Northern European mind. The Brain, no discussion can be complete without mentioning the experiment of Ivan Pavlov (1849-1936). Ivan Pavlov and his followers showed, unconditioned and conditioned reflexes of the brain underlie mental activity. When external objects act on the nerve endings of the sense organs, strictly determined bioelectric impulses are sent to the brain via the nervous system. They evoke a number of complexes physic-chemical changes during which the impulse (signal) received is changed and evokes a response reaction of the organism. The brain, on the bais of this signal, sends a response impulse to the corresponding internal organs or locomotory organs, causing the most purposive action. When an animal sees food it secretes saliva, when a human touches a very hot object, he instantaneously withdraws his hand. The process is known as an unconditioned reflex or instinct. 2. DUALISM: One of the classical metaphysical issues concerning the relationship between that which is mental and that which is physical. The issue has its origins in the ancient dualism of Plato and since then many solutions to the problem have been offered; the major ones, classified according to whether they are dualisms, monisms or compromises, follows; Dualisms; Interactionism, where in mind and body are assume to be separate acting and mutually influencing each other. Psychophysicalism (or parallelism), wherein mind and body are treated as two distinct, independent, but perfectly correlated elements. 3. WHO ACCEPT DUALISM : Despite the obviousness of this problem, and the amount of attention given to it, Descartes himself never took this issue very seriously. His response to Gassendi is a telling example: These questions presuppose amongst other things an explanation of the union between the soul and the body, which I have not yet dealt with at all. But I will say, for your benefit at least, that the whole problem contained in such questions arises simply from a supposition that is false and cannot in any way be proved, namely that, if the soul and the body are two substances whose nature is different, this prevents them from being able to act on each. So, Descartes response to the mind-body problem is twofold. First, Descartes contends that a response to this question presupposes an explanation of the union between the mind (or soul) and the body. Second, Descartes claims that the question itself stems from the false presupposition that two substances with completely different natures cannot act on each other. Further examination of these two points will occur in reverse order. Descartes principles of causation put forward in the  Third Meditation lie at the heart of this second presupposition. The relevant portion of this discussion is when Descartes argues that the less real cannot cause something that is more real, because the less real does not have enough reality to bring about something more real than itself. This principle applies on the general level of substances and modes. On this account, an infinite substance, that is, God, is the most real thing because only he requires nothing else in order to exist; created, finite substances are next most real, because they require only Gods creative and conservative activity in order to exist; and finally, modes are the least real, because they require a created substance and an infinite substance in order to exist. So, on this principle, a mode cannot cause the existence of a substance since modes are less real than finite substances. Similarly, a created, finite substance cannot cause the existence of a n infinite substance. But a finite substance can cause the existence of another finite substance or a mode (since modes are less real than substances). Hence, Descartes point could be that the completely diverse natures of mind and body do not violate this causal principle, since both are finite substances causing modes to exist in some other finite substance. This indicates further that the activity of the mind on the body does not require contact and motion, thereby suggesting that mind and body do not bear a mechanistic causal relation to each other. More will be said about this below. The first presupposition concerns an explanation of how the mind is united with the body. Descartes remarks about this issue are scattered across both his published works and his private correspondence. These texts indicate that Descartes did not maintain that voluntary bodily movements and sensation arise because of the causal interaction of mind and body by contact and motion. Rather, he maintains a version of the form-matter theory of soul-body union endorsed by some of his scholastic-Aristotelian predecessors and contemporaries. Although a close analysis of the texts in question cannot be conducted here, a brief summary of how this theory works for Descartes can be provided. Before providing this summary, however, it is important to disclaim that this scholastic-Aristotelian interpretation is a minority position amongst Descartes scholars. The traditional view maintains that Descartes human being is composed of two substances that causally interact in a mechanistic fashion. This traditional view led some of Descartes successors, such as Malebranche and Leibniz (who also believed in the real distinction of mind and body), to devise metaphysical systems wherein mind and body do not causally interact despite appearances to the contrary. Other philosophers considered the mind-body problem to be insurmountable, thereby denying their real distinction: they claim that everything is either extended (as is common nowadays) or mental (as George Berkeley argued in the 18th century). Indeed, this traditional, mechanistic interpretation of Descartes is so deeply ingrained in the minds of philosophers today, that most do not even bother to argue for it. However, a not able exception is Marleen Rozemond, who argues for the incompatibility of Descartes metaphysics with any scholastic-Aristotelian version of mind or soul-body union. Those interested in closely examining her arguments should consult her book  Descartess Dualism. A book arguing in favor of the scholastic-Aristotelian interpretation is entitled  Descartes and the Metaphysics of Human Nature. 4. DESCARTES VIEW ON DUALISM: Rene Descartes theory of Dualism is the most important dualistic theory in the history of philosophy. According to Descartes mind and body are totally different from each other. Body does not depend on mind and also mind does not depend on body. Ones nature does not present on other. The necessary nature of the body is extension and body is passive. But the necessary nature of the mind is consciousness, active and independent. According to Descartes consciousness is present only within human mind. It does not present in stone, wood like this kind of matter and not even animal also. Descartes thinks that human mind and body can never mix with each other. Mind lodged in body as a totally separate substance . And for this kind of lodged -relationship human can control their bodily movement as they want. According to Descartes body is like a machine and mind is like a controller of that machine. Here Descartes gives an example ,, The relation between mind and body is not like the relation between ship and the captain of the ship. Mind -body relation is a very close relation. Because if the ship damage or destroy, the captain does not feel any pain. But if there is any kind of pain in the human body, then it is painful for human mind also. So, we have to accept that mind body relation is a very close relation. Now Descartes talking about interactionism. Here he says that, in our daily life we can realize sometimes mind effect on body and sometimes body effect on mind. Sometimes mental activities causes bodily changes and sometimes bodily activity causes mental changes. Like , if mind is upset or disturb the strength of the body is down. And if mind is happy the strength of the body is grown up. Here mind is the cause of bodily changes. Likewise, if the body is ill then the thinking power of the mind is down automatically. And if the body is well then the thinking power of the mind will grow automatically. To describe all of these kinds of actions we need to accept the theory of interactionism. But if we follow Descartes dualism and take mind and body as a separate and opposite substance then this kind of interactionism is never possible. Because if there is no similarity between two things then no relation can possible between them. Because there must be a quantitative balance and qualitative resemblance between cause and effect. Descartes first take mind and body separate and opposite substance. And break all the relation between them. But after that he himself again mention about interactionism. Descartes has to face many problem for this kind of thinking. Because how can it would be possible to create any relation between two opposite kind of substance? Here Descartes solve the problem in two different ways. 1. In case of mind-body relation Descartes talking only about the relation of coexistence and the constitutive unity but not the unity of nature. According to Descartes if there is any constitutive unity then body and mind do not interact through their nature, the interact as an attachment of two separate object and through this interaction their distinctness do not change. 2. in the book of the passions of the soul Descartes says that, the relation between mind and body is not with the each and every part of the body. This relation is only with the pineal gland of the brain. This pituitary gland or pineal gland is the main and only gland for the relation of interactionism. Physical changes directly effect to the pineal gland and it is the cause of mental changes. Likewise mental think or mental will directly effect to the pineal gland. And this is the cause of physical changes. In the book of the passions of the soul Descartes tell this small gland seat of animal spirit. Body and mind effect on each other through this gland. So, according to Descartes the interactionism between two opposite kind of objects can happen indirectly with the help of the pineal gland. 5. CRITISISM AGAINST DESCARTES : There are many criticism of Descartes interactionism. Descartes mention constitutive unity`, but in this unity the nature of mind and body does not change- this solution is not acceptable. Because if there is any constitutive unity between two separate substance, then there must be some changes in their nature. Descartes accept the relation between mind and pineal gland. But the acceptation of only pineal gland without body could not solve the problem. It only replace the proble from one place to another. Mind influences pineal gland directly. This implies mind influences body because pineal gland is the part of the body. According to the casual rule of natural science interactionism or cause effect relation is not possible between two opposite kind of things like mind and body. The rule is that there must be some kind of quantitative balance and qualitative resemblance between cause and effect. The theory of interactionism about mind and body ignore the law of conservation of energy. According to this law the total energy of this material-world is constant. It only change from one form to another. But if we follow the interactionism we have to accept that when body effect on mind, some sort of bodily energy store into mind and total bodily energy (material energy) decreases and vice-versa. So, it ignore the rule of the law of conservation of energy. If we take mind as a separate substance from material body, we have to face those two problems a) The problem of identification. b) The problem of individuation. Because if conscious mind is invisible and untouchable, then how can we identify mind ? ( As conscious mind can not be situated in space ). And identification is not possible then individuation is also not possible . So, it is totally meaningless to accept mind totally separate from body. If there is nothing like mind except body, the problem of interactionism about mind and body will be a meaningless problem. Descartes says that extension is the necessary nature of matter. But it is not acceptable by modern scientist like, Lord Belfour, James jeans, Eddington and others. In modern science immaterializing the matter become possible. Matter is not a mere, extensive, solid substance. If we analyze matter, we will get some kind of energy like electron and proton at the last part of the division. And if energy is the main thing of the world then Descartes dualism is not acceptable. Because there s nothing like extendable matter. Conclusion: We can never deny the existence of mind. Only mind can deny mind, so that mind s establish. And we cannot deny the relation between mind and body in a very simple way. In our everyday experience we can feel that there is a cause-effect relation between mind and body.

A Passage to India Essay -- Literary Analysis

E.M. Forster, born into a middle-class family in London, was a humanist and an English writer famous for his literary works which called attention to the hypocrisy (present in the time in which he lived). In his novel A Passage To India, Forster explores the relationship between and within the Anglo-Indian and Native-Indian communities under British Imperialism and expounds on the sins which its members commit against the humanistic values of sympathy and understanding. Additionally, in A Passage to India Forster reflects the relationship phases which occur between his characters through the use of the three main divisions -- Mosque, Caves, and Temple. The First division Mosque, a Muslim place of worship, is set in the fictional city of Chandrapore and brings about the first stage of human confrontation --Introduction. One of the first introductions Forster makes to the reader is the division of the Indian and British cultures. He does this by describing Indian Chandrapore to be a place where the â€Å"streets are mean, the temples ineffective, and though a few fine houses exist they are hidden away in gardens or down alleys whose filth deters all but the invited guest.† (Forster 3) while describing British Chandrapore â€Å"to be a totally different place. It is a city of gardens. It is no city, but a forest sparsely scattered with huts. It is a tropical pleasaunce washed by a noble river† (Forster 4). The idea of ‘introductions’ is further explored in Dr. Aziz’s visit to the mosque which lets â€Å"loose his imagination..where his body and thoughts have found their home† (Forster 16), whe re the â€Å"many small sounds [of the] English...amateur orchestra...Hindus drumming...owls† (Forster 17), all diverse in nature, echoed through a similar space... ...d apart; the earth didn’t want it, sending up rocks through which riders must pass single file; the temples, the tanks the jail, the place, the birds, the carrion, the Guest House...didn’t want it, they said...’no, not yet,’ and the sky said, ‘No, not there’†(Forster 362). Works Cited Forster, E. M. A Passage To India. New York: Harcourt, Brace and, 1924. Print. "Mosque, Cave, Temple, and a Few Comments on the Weather." Shmoop. Web. 11 Apr. 2012. . "The Structure of E. M. Forster's "A Passage to India"" Your Knowledge Has Value. Web. 11 Apr. 2012. . "A Passage to India." SparkNotes. SparkNotes. Web. 11 Apr. 2012. .

Japanese in America Essay -- essays research papers

Pocky, Anime, manga, kanji. Have you heard of any of these? If not†¦ where have you been? All around us teenagers, children, and even adults are being drawn into Japanese culture through TV, books, and even food. Japanese comics, called manga, take up more and more space on American bookshelves, and they've infused new life into the publishing industry. Japanese animation, anime, is on more and more movies and TV screens and influencing popular toys and games. Before the 80’s when people thought of Japanese imports, they thought of cars, TV’s, walkmans, and other electronics. Japanese pop culture is becoming increasingly popular and shows no signs of stopping. Now children are trying to learn Japanese and martial arts to be like their favorite anime character. Teens are learning to speak Japanese and adopting Japanese clothes, food, and even traditions. Adults are enthralled by the colorful and vast world of anime and manga and are amazed they can have such a lasting effect on their kids. Some people may wonder why Japanese anime and manga are so popular with kids and the answer is simple. They’re so different and captivating, everyone can find one they enjoy. You have action, comedy, romance, horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and tons more. Some even mix and match, making a truly wonderful and breathtaking experience. And it’s not just the movie and book industry either. Music, known as J-pop or J- rock, is taking up more and more room on the Internet. The Japanese bands are not o...

Reaction Paper on Vampires Essay

Vampire movies always have lots of fans, and of course, I’m a vampire film fan, too. In the past, vampires looked so scary: they were old, extremely ugly, knows nothing but killing†¦ Nowadays, however, people start to make vampires more â€Å"human†(and sometimes they are made even better than human beings): They are so good-looking they have breath-taking faces, they have sexy figures; they are immortal  they won’t die because they are too â€Å"old†, in other words, they are undead. They still looked young even thought they are hundreds years old; they have so many superpowers they read minds, they move as fast as wind, they are unbelievably strong. Now people even made vampires know more than just hunting like animals they know romance as well, they will fall in love with like human do†¦ I think this might be one of the reasons why people love vampire movies that much: because we find that our dreams (which can never come true in real life) come true in these movies. Reverse Psychology† is often used on children, through which parents let their children to do something by telling them †don’t do this. † This is because children are more likely to respond orders with reactance. In the movie â€Å"let the right one in†, when Eli and Oskar first met, Eli told Oskar â€Å"I can’t be your friend†. But obviously, Oskar didn’t have a clear desire to make friends with Eli. Eli started stating a negative in order to achieve her positive goal. And this is the use of reverse psychology. Based on the film notes, Eli’s intentions regard the function of Oskar is a replacement of Hakan. But even after reading the film notes, I still feel that Eli’s ultimate goal with Oskar is not just for finding someone to kill people and get blood for her. For me, Eli is just trying to have a friend who can keep her company. It’s easy to tell that Eli’s attitude towards Oskar is totally different from that to Hakan, she cares about Oskar (at least for me it is). At the beginning I thought Hakan is the father of Eli, but later on I found he’s more likely to be someone who helps Eli finding â€Å"food†. He might used to be Eli’s lover, but that’s just a guess, because there might be other reasons why he chose to take care of Eli. For example, he might be the one who cause Eli’s changing into a vampire, he feel guilty so that he chose to stay with her. According to the notes, at first Eli tried to sense Oskar as a potential serial killer, then she took control of Oskar’s self-image†¦Assume that Eli is a pedophile, she might keep Oskar, a young boy with her and replace Hakan, who’s no longer useful to her. In this film, the uncanny ability is shown to audiences over and over again, and it presents that love is just an excuse, which is used to disguise the subliminal reality of objectification and exploitation. By looking at the way Oskar dresses and behavior, we can tell that Oskar is an effeminate personality in this movie. I think that’s why the boys enjoy making fun of him. I thought that the reason why Oskar didn’t ever fight back is because he is so cowardice that he’s afraid that they might hit him harder if he fights back. But the note assumes that Oskar is actually sublimating his unconscious sexual attraction by allowing himself to be victimized. I think that because the group of bad boys always attacked Oskar and he couldn’t get any help from someone else, so he was mentally ill already. He had a strong desire of revenging but he didn’t have the â€Å"courage† to do so. He wants to kill people if it is allowed. Just because he knows that he cannot do it, he transferred his inner desire of killing to collecting the newspaper clippings on murder. I think his too cowardice. When I first watched this movie and saw Eli asked Oskar to teach her how to play the Rubrik’s cube, I didn’t think too much about this. But after reading the notes, it shows me that Rubrik’s cube might be one of the tools Eli use to achieve her subterfuge (which is to get close to Oskar). I think because Eli is a vampire who cannot live without drinking human’s blood, so it’s better for her to live in a lower class apartment so that she won’t catch people’s attention, otherwise she will get into trouble so easily. In a telling scene, we saw Eli’s naked groin with a horizontal suture, which means Eli was a boy but castrated by someone.

West Coast Limited

West Coast Limited is a company that specializes in PC Hardware, printers, monitors, software, parts and range of AV equipment.   There are currently eight employees including:   One administration person, three small parts people, two forklift drivers, a manager and one goods inward department employee.In this company, each person has been taking many roles.   The following has been discovered:   The administration person handles the role primarily of checking in goods as they are received.   In addition, the administration person assists the small parts people when she has time.   The small parts people currently put away small parts then assist bookkeeping when finished. Their duties also include moving stock, unloading stock, and assisting the manager when needed.The forklift drivers spent approximately 30% of their time consolidating things then putting items away that were received by shipping.   The manager spends his time answering emails and answering the phone . He is responsible for all scanners we well, which can be time consuming considering they move very slowly.   The goods inward rep works in the department and handles strictly goods inward.Developmental NeedsIn reviewing the company’s daily tasks and the roles of the individual staff, I have recognized there are primarily ten different tasks which are pertinent to be completed daily.   The tasks include:   Checking goods in as they arrive, putting away small parts, consolidating bins, putting away receivables with forklift for larger items, bookkeeping, moving stock, checking paperwork, answering phones, answering emails and incoming scanners.There are five official titles including: forklift driver, manager, goods inward department, small parts and administration.   All of these job titles are currently performing a mixture of functions which can be damaging to the organization. First, each person is spending only a certain amount of time on their area then assistin g another area.   This is a problem considering there is a specific job that needs to be done to its fullest. Having a number of hands in the pot of each area is leaving too much room for error.   It is easy to have a lack of communication when there are so many different people working at different times, in no apparent schedule.The developmental needs begin with creating a job description for each title and defining the objectives that are needed to be completed daily.   The job description should also provide the steps necessary in order to be recognized for advancement, as well as what advancement opportunities will come next. Advancement opportunities need to be developed. This can include promotion to manager of that area, as well as the chance to post out of your department and try for a new role.   Doing this will encourage employees to be ready for change, and gain excitement in that area.In order to prepare advancement opportunities, individual performances should be measured.   This should be measured annually beginning with this year.   To begin the process of a pay scale should be created for each department and clearly communicated to the employee in that area where they stand. The key elements of what is required should be provided in a written job description.   Additionally, the steps to be measured in a performance evaluation should be provided to the employees. This will create an open environment and begin the process of communication as employees will feel informed, every step of the way.Developmental Opportunities for the TeamTeam building exercises should take place in order to build open communication.   This can be done by each department. Each department should evaluate what objectives that they need met at this time, as well as search for areas that they may be deficient and need help.   Times can be established that other departments and team members can be assigned to help the lagging department get caught up. In return, the assisting department should be prepared with a list of items that they need help with, and be prepared to ask for the same help in return.Having excellent communication is very important in times of change. Everyone handles changes differently, which is why it is important during a transition to emphasize on communication.   In order to ensure a good development of this, meetings should be held. An initial meeting, company wide should be held in order to advise employees of what transitions will take place. An estimated time frame for restructure should be provided.   An update as to the reasons for the transitions should be provided.   A point of contact for questions and concerns should be established and provided.Once an initial meeting has been completed, a regular schedule for meeting updates should be provided.   This will keep employees informed.Developmental Opportunities for each IndividualThe first step for development for an each individual is to sched ule a time for the employee to meet with the manager. This meeting should consist of the employee receiving their job description. The job description should define daily tasks and specifications. It should also provide the measurement tools of this position. The annual review process should be introduced to employees, advising of the steps that they will bemeasured. The employee should also be encouraged to offer assistance when needed, to other areas that are delinquent in their daily completion of tasks.   Considering each person will have defined duties, the process of doing their position part of the day then assisting other area’s will be deleted. The individual will only assist other areas when it is determined by management that it is necessary to obtain additional help versus offering overtime to the employees of that department.   Additionally, any questions or feedback should be encouraged. Training opportunities need to be discussed in the meeting.   This wi ll include reviewing the job description with the employee to obtain any pertinent information as to any training needs that they feel they need.Development Objectives Based on the Needs for Development, Opportunities for Team and Each IndividualIn order to define objectives for each individual, a short quiz or questionnaire should be provided containing the following questions:â€Å"Take a minute to consider your daily work tasks and identify the tools and skills you will need to perform them.What personal qualities are needed to succeed describe the mental and physical skills and tools you use to get motivated for classes, tests, presentations and reviews† (ferret 2003)This will evaluate where the employee stands and get a good idea of the additional training that they will need to receive if any in order to do a good job. This questionnaire will also identify the employee’s objectives and interest in their current roles.Team building should be encouraged considering each person is used to putting their hands in a lot of areas. Everyone reacts different to change. therefore it is important to be prepared to handle different reactions to the changes being made.   In prevention of lack of communication, the following points should be reviewed in company meetings:â€Å"1. Be aware of your feelings.  2. See the value in diversity  3. Treat people as individuals  4. Treat people with respect  5.   Be aware of differences  6. Listen7. Get involved8. Take risks9. Apologize when you make a mistake10. Speak out11. Encourage representation† (ferret 2003).Another strategy should be used to encourage adaptation to change. This includes encourage.   Encouragement should be in the area of changing the way of thinking.   Currently the daily thought process includes looking at tasks as a partial project until moving on to a new area.   This needs to be changed to looking at the big picture in effort to ensure quality and productivity .   This can be done with a lesson.   The recommended lesson is:â€Å"Working in Day Units† (Davidson 2004) as The â€Å"60 Second Procrastinator† (Davidson 2004) suggests, you need to take each project that needs to be done and organize this by each day.   For this company it will include: the amount of inventory coming in for the day, the amount of emails, busy phone times, busy email times, arranging inventory put away and small parts put away by the amount of volume. Organize the volume expected to be conducted by that department by the day and treat each day as an opportunity. Once this becomes a pattern then the company will be accustom to functioning in this manner.Assess the Program Against Development ObjectivesThe program that I designed will meet development objectives. It is designed to bring out the training issues which may exist from each employee, and to format each person with a job description, to be sure that each area is being handled by someo ne that is familiar with the whole picture of that area.   This will ensure a 100 percent focus on each area, instead of having someone who only does that part of the time, working in the area. The program is designed to create a smooth flow of operations, and provide initiatives for employees so that they want to stay with the company.In addition, the program is a developmental tool for each person. It will help to open communication and show each person that they are valued. It will encourage participation from those interested in advancement. When opportunities are provided along with objectives, people will meet those if they feel they will be rewarded and recognized.Planning the Work Activities for the TeamThe new structure for daily work activities will be as follows:Goods inward department will check in goods as they come in and handle incoming scannersOne small parts girl will put away small parts The other small parts girl will consolidate the bins Forklift driver will pu t things away that require a forklift Forklift driver will move large items that require a forklift Administration will do bookkeeping, answer phones and respond to emails Manager will oversee daily operations, and review department objectives. He will measure areas that need improvement and delegate others to assist if departments are delinquentIf there is a time when the department is clear of duties, then a list of ongoing items should be compiled in order to keep busy, such as reviewing daily tasks to ensure completion as well as preparation for upcoming busy times.Gaining Commitment for Work Activities from your TeamHave employees sign a slip recognizing that they have been advised of their job description.   Have a one on one with each employee to make sure that they are comfortable with the process and are aware of the changes that will be made.   Give them a mission statement of the company.   Give them knowledge of what the performance evaluation will entail and the a mount of raise they could receive next year according to their accomplishments.Encouraging Involvement and Assessing Progress of Work ActivitiesThe manager should provide positive reinforcement. A good tool is to keep a white board in the meeting area. A new affirmation should be listed daily for each person to review at their leisure. Whether employees comment on this or not, it is a positive reinforcement tool. An example of one of the affirmations could be:   â€Å"Every day is an opportunity- I can’t get to Friday until I step on Monday†. (Harrell 2003) He should be out and in the work area’s available to answer any questions, all while performing procedure verification to be sure that the people are doing daily tasks, and to check the progress of what is being done. He should be notified of any problem areas and then once the problem area’s in order to provide compliance.Modifying Plans to Ensure that Performance Objectives are Being Met and Relati ng this to Day to Day Management Activities:Day to day management activities should include reviewing the work areas for accomplishments daily and performing daily walk thru’s. Morning meetings to reviews and accomplishments and goals should be conducted. This will also create enthusiasm and promote positive attitudes. Managers should establish a clear set of goals pertaining to what needs to get accomplished and follow up on those goals.   One on one coaching and mentoring should be provided on a daily basis. One day a week can be spent with each area in order to accomplish this.ConclusionThere’s a lot of work to be completed, however the most positive asset that this company has at this time includes the fact that each employee has a good knowledge of primarily all areas. Despite the fact that each person will have their own job description, this experience provides a broad overview of the company and gives each department some objectives to work toward if they are interested in advancement.In conclusion, this company has daily activities established. However; they need to spend time to organize, inform, and provide incentives. Once the company is organized, they will be more productive, at which time more business will arrive.   Once employees are informed, and given tools necessary to exceed they will feel valued and important. Valued employees are happy employees, which leaves little room for turnover.ReferencesFerrett, Sharon K. Peak Performance: Success in College and Beyond.   California: Glencoe/McGraw Hill, 2003Davidson, Jeff. The 60 Second Procrastinator. Massachusetts: AdamsMedia, 2004Harrell, Keith. Attitude is Everything. New York: HarperCollins, 2003A