Brookes Brother Firm Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Brookes Brother Firm - Research Paper Example Brookes Brother already has a presence on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, as well as its own Blog. As Ralph Lauren once said â€Å"I don’t design clothes, I design dreams† (Allgreatquotes). The internet has become the dream innovation for the fashion industry. Ecommerce sales are rising in the United States and abroad. It is estimated that global ecommerce sales will reach $963 billion by 2013, while the United States is expected to reach $235 billion in sales within three years (Davis). The apparel industry is growing due to a rise in population and a rise in the income capacity of consumers in emerging economies. In the United States in 2010 the retail sales of clothes and accessories was $218 billion (Plunkett Research). Facebook is the top social media website with over 750 million users. The company must advertise itself using Facebook. Due to the lack of knowledge of the company in social media advertising the firm must hire a professional marketing consulting firm to develop a strategy to maximize the firm’s exposure to its target market of people between the ages of 16 to 30 years of age. The use of a downloadable game sponsored by Bookers Brother is a great way to attract traffic from Facebook users. The company should hire a team of young writers to develop original slogans and conversation topics to discuss on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, Foursquare and other social media websites. Foursquare is a radical social media network for cellular devices.

CHURCH VISIT - WESTMINSTER ABBEY IN LONDON Essay

CHURCH VISIT - WESTMINSTER ABBEY IN LONDON - Essay Example There are four large statues of Moses, St. peter, St Paul and another of king David on either side of the alter which give the whole building a serene feeling of holiness. The pulpit where the sermon is conducted is made of gilded wood and from where the sermon is conducted on Sundays. As I walked the length of the abbey, I reached an entrance on the end where the evensong is conducted. There is where I met vergers, who looked as though they were on guard duty at the door, but when I asked them about the evensong, they let me in pleasantly and gave me a program which explains the service; they also added my name to the list of people to sit in the quire. From their on, I just watched what other people were doing and copied them. We were then later issued with pamphlets with the week’s services and music along with the evensong service sheet; which basically tells one when to stand and sit or when to respond. The service then soon began when the whole congregation was signaled to arise in the singing of the poem Tallis in manus tuas, Domine (after Thomas Tallis). The poem was also in the pamphlet issued to the rest of the congregation and soon, I was in rhythm with the rest of the congregation in the recitation of the Tallis in manus tuas, Domine (Tallis, pg 89). Soon after, we completed reciting the Tallis in manus tuas, Domine the preacher who had been seated at the alter came in to the pulpit and gave a brief reading from the Bible only and excluded a sermon. After the reading, the choir which mainly consisted of around thirty boys who were seated at the quire and wore red robes, arose and what followed left me speechless. The boys’ singing of Purcell Lord, how long wilt thou be angry was really the most wonderful thing I have ever heard (Tallis, pg 112). Just like me the rest of the congregation was left also wanting for more. I guess its one of the major reasons why the

Study on the Market Response to Stock Splits

Study on the Market Response to Stock Splits The market response to stock splits is investigated with the dataset from an emerging country – India for period 2006 March 2009. study reports significantly positive abnormal returns on day of split execution and next trading day. regression analysis suggests that the reaction can be attributed to liquidity hypothesis. The postsplit period experiences abnormally high negative which wipes out any positive gain during split execution. This seems mostly explained by presplit price increase and size of firms suggesting that the have experienced a in period are ones suffer worst returns. In theory, stocksplits are cosmetic corporate events as they simply increase the number of outstanding shares and decrease the price of each outstanding share. Hence, there should be no significant effect on the value of the firm. A stock split does not change the revenue or assets of a company. So, stocksplit should cause no change in price other than the adjustment warranted by the split factor. There should also be no change in distribution of stock returns around exdates of stock splits. Exdate refers to the date on or after which a security is traded without a previously declared dividend or distribution. However, empirical evidence suggests that the market generally reacts favorably to stock splits. In different developed markets, for instance, UK and US, significant positive abnormal returns and increase in variance and volumes of trade have been documented around stock split announcements as well as exdates. The contradiction between theory, which expects no change in firm va lue consequent to stock splits, and the reality, with scores of evidence of significant market reaction, triggers the present study. In February 1981, the Indian ministry of finance issued a guideline that denomination of equity shares be fixed uniformly at Rs.10, and that the denomination of the then existing shares other than Rs.10 be converted into denomination of Rs.10. In another guideline in January 1983, the Indian government clarified that denomination of shares of Rs.100 need not be changed to denomination of Rs.10, i.e. shares of all companies were required to be in denominations of Rs.10 or Rs.100 only. Even so, several companies converted the denomination of shares of Rs.100 into that of Rs.10 on the grounds that it generated better liquidity, as also a higher value for the shares. However, in March 1999, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) decided, with the objective of broadening the investors base, to dispense away with the requirement of standard denomination of Rs.100 or Rs.10 and gave freedom to companies to issue shares of any denomination but not below Re.1. Companies that had issued shares of the face value of Rs.10 or Rs.100 were also permitted to avail of this facility by consolidation or by splitting their existing shares. To reap benefits of splitting, a number of existing listed companies having denomination of Rs.100 or Rs.10 have split their stocks into different denominations, e.g., Re.1, Rs.2 or Rs.5, etc. These recent changes in the Indias regulatory environment offer a unique opportunity to gain further insight into the stock splits with reference to their effects on variables like stock prices, return, volatility, and trading volume. With the increased integration of international markets in general and a wave of liberalization and globalization, the importance of understanding these stock events has increased dramatically. Further, there a re different capital gains tax laws in India. Under these circumstances, splits may have different effects contrary to what has been reported in various literatures. Furthermore, compared to the worlds major stock exchanges, there are proportionally more small firms listed on Indian exchanges; consequently, many firms are thinly traded. Hence, these differences between Global and Indian markets necessitate studying split events in India. The results of the present study shows significantly positive cumulative abnormal returns on and the next trading day after split execution, following which there is a major decline in share prices which wipes out most of the gain of the execution period. The signaling hypothesis and the trading range hypothesis do not seem to provide any explanation for the significant CAR around execution date, while the liquidity hypothesis seems to contribute significantly towards the positive CAR occurring on and immediately after the execution. The small firm hypothesis also 6 shows weak explanatory power for the change in wealth. The post execution negative reaction is mostly explained by run up of stock prices preceding the execution, implying that the stock split has induced a revision of stocks fundamentals, probably bringing prices to a more fundamental level. 7 2. . Literature review There have been numerous researches on the effect of stock splits on different parameters of capital markets. Fama etal (1969) has been the pioneering study to examine the share price performance of splitting firms. Although the economic literature has not yet found a definitive explanation for either the abnormal returns observed around the announcement and execution dates, or the reasons why managers decide to split, different explanations, not necessarily mutually exclusive have been proposed. The more prominent hypotheses are the signaling hypothesis, the trading range hypothesis, the liquidity hypothesis and the neglected firm hypothesis. One such research paper advocates considering the three different market efficiencies (weak form, semistrong form, and strong form) that the investor can make an above normal return by relying on public information impounded in a stock split announcement. This study agrees that according to the semistrong form market efficiency, the stock split announcement do impact the company stock price. The study done by Desai, Jain (1997) elaborates more on longrun performance of common stock following stock splits announcement and hence concludes that the capital market doesnt fully react to the information conveyed in the stock split announcement. Considering the ignored studies of small firms, the paper examined firm portfolio of different sizes and more diversity in terms of industries. Taking a large sample of stock information for a period of 1976 – 91, the research paper concluded that the market does not incorporate the full effect of the stock split announcement in the month of announcement. It is evident that managers believe that stock split results in optimal trading price of a stock that attract small investors and hence enhances liquidity. Joshipura (2008) studied the price and liquidity effects associated with stock split surrounding its announcement and execution 8 dates in Indian stock exchanges. The results suggested that though there were some positive abnormal return associated surrounding announcement and execution dates of the stock split, but it reverses in just a few days after the event dates, and ultimately generates significant negative abnormal return in slightly longer postexecution window. It also found that there was a significant improvement seen in liquidity surrounding announcement and execution dates of stock split. Desai and Nimalendran (1998) examined the effect of the change in trading activity after stock splits on volatility and spread. The results of the study show that the increase in volatility cannot be attributed solely to microstructure biases arising from the bidask bounce and price discreteness. Even after correcting for these two biases, the study found a significant increase in volatility after the split. The study also found an increase in the number of trades after the split, and the increase in the biasadjus ted volatility was positively related to this increase in the number of trades. The study decomposed volatility into transient and permanent components and found that both components of volatility increase after the split. Attributing transient volatility to noise traders and permanent volatility to informed traders, the study suggested that trading by both types of traders increases after the split. Ikenberry, etal (1996) discusses that splits are used to move stock prices into a trading range to increase liquidity and that they are used by management as a signal of positive private information. The study found evidence that is consistent with the view that splits are typically used to realign stock prices to a normal trading range. The study also confirmed that splits convey favorable information, thereby validating the signaling hypothesis. It was found that market reaction was greater for small firms, low booktomarket firms and firms splitting to low share prices. The study also found an inverse relationship between the presplit run up and postsplit excess returns, suggesting that the results were not attributable to momentum. 9 There are various studies devoted to studying the effect of stock splits in specific geographies. Asquith, etal (1989) examined stock splits in the US market and found that stock splits do convey earnings information. The results indicated that firms split their shares after a significant increase in earnings. Before the stock split announcement, the market expects these earnings increases to be temporary. The split announcement leads investors to increase their expectations that the past earnings increases are permanent. The study also found that the markets reaction to the split announcement cannot be attributed to expectations of either future earnings increases or nearterm cash dividend increases. Elfakhani, etal (2003) examined the market behavior surrounding stock split announcements in the Canadian market for the 1977–1993 period and the effect of the 2year before compared to the 2year after the announcement. Using the event study methodology, the findings indicated tha t positive abnormal returns exist on both the announcement days (0,1) and the 11day period surrounding stock split announcements. The results also showed that following the split event, bidask spreads decrease, while both trading volume and the number of transactions increase thus suggesting that split events enhance liquidity. Further, the study observed that earnings grow in the 2year period following split events, thus implying that split events signal future performance of the firm. Wulff (2002) investigated market reaction to stock splits using a set of German firms and in line with the US findings, found significant positive abnormal returns around both the announcement and the execution day of German stock splits. The study also observed an increase in return variance and in liquidity after the exday. The study found that abnormal returns around the announcement day are not related to changes in liquidity, but (negatively) to firm size, thus lending support to the neglected f irm hypothesis. Despite noting a substantial increase in liquidity after the split, the study did not find support for the liquidity 10 hypothesis. Menendez, etal (2003) analyzed the motivations and valuation effects of stock splits in the Spanish market. The findings of the study suggest that splitting firms present a presplit stock price above the normal trading range, and that, after the split, the number of transactions and the average transaction size increase significantly. Moreover, positive abnormal returns are observed around the announcement dates and around the exdate. For the latter, however, these positive wealth effects are outweighed by the negative abnormal returns observed closely afterwards. The study found that liquidity, or the optimal trading range hypotheses prevailed over other hypotheses as an explanation for stock splits in the Spanish market. The findings of the study suggest the main reason behind a stock split and for the positive market reaction around the stock split announcements is a higher share price than the normal trading range. The reduction of this higher price seems to attract s mall investors and thus significant increases in the number of transactions and reductions in the trading volume per transaction after the split are observed, without there being any significant variation in the volume of shares traded. This adjustment of the firms stock price to a normal trading range is valued positively by investors. Most of these studies are concentrated mainly around market reaction at the announcement date. In a study on the UK equity market, specifically concentrating on the exsplit date, Staikouras etal, (2009) has documented positive abnormal returns on and around the exsplit date which are partially predictable using the publicly available information prior to the exsplit date. The study also observed a persistent increase in the post split volatility of the stocks in the UK equity market with this increase being better explained by the daily trading volume. This is in contrast to the US findings where the daily number of trades was found to better capture the increase in volatility. 11 In this study, the market response to stock splits is investigated with the dataset from an emerging country – India, which is distanced from the west in terms of geographical location, economic development, institutional and legal framework. Not much is available in the Indian context with a focus on the exsplit date, so far, except for the commendable work by Mishra (2007), which documents negative effect on price and return of stocks following splits. The study also reports a positive effect on volatility and trading volume following the split events. The present paper tries to provide a few additional insights on the issue and therefore, differs from Mishras (2007) study in the following ways. Firstly, an attempt is made to explain the significant cumulative abnormal returns around the split execution dates with the help of regression analysis. Secondly, the independent variables cover issues like small firm hypothesis, price run up, deviation of price from market average, which are unexplored in his paper. Thirdly, the data set of the present study covers the period post Mishras study, i.e., from 2006 to March 2009. HHHHyyyyppppooootttthhhheeeesssseeees s ffffoooorrrrmmmmuuuullllaaaattttiiiioooon n TTTThhhhe e ssssiiiiggggnnnnaaaalllliiiinnnng g hhhhyyyyppppooootttthhhheeeessssiiiis s The signaling hypothesis proposes that, in a scenario of asymmetric information between managers and investors, managers may use stock splits to signal positive information to the market about the firms future expectations. The presence of positive abnormal returns around the stock split announcement that is found in many empirical studies provides evidence for the signaling hypothesis. 12 Trading range hypothesis According to the optimal trading range hypothesis, stock splits are used as tools to realign the share price to a desired price range so that it is more affordable for small investors to buy round lots of shares. If the presplit share price is at a high level, then a stock split is justified for improving the marketability of the shares. Empirical findings suggesting an increase in the daily number of transactions after the split do not reject this optimal range hypothesis. TTTThhhhe e lllliiiiqqqquuuuiiiiddddiiiitttty y hhhhyyyyppppooootttthhhheeeessssiiiis s The managements motivation to bring the share price to an optimal trading range arises from the desire to improve liquidity. According to literature there is an observed increase in trading volume during the postsplit period, and hence provide support for the liquidity hypothesis of stock splits. Staikouras etal, (2009) in their study of the UK equity market document a strong and positive relationship between the measures of trading activity and the returns volatility over the preand postsplit horizons. SSSSmmmmaaaalllll l ffffiiiirrrrm m hhhhyyyyppppooootttthhhheeeessssiiiis s Small firm or neglected firm hypothesis suggests that since the smaller firms have fewer announcements published in the financial press, the split announcement is expected to create greater market interest than it would be in case of larger firms. So, small firms may have an incentive to adopt the stock splits to grab more attention. Based on the discussion above, we can lay down the objectives of this study. The study proposes to, using data from the Indian stock market, examine the presence of positive abnormal returns over the stock split 13 period and, if found to be true, to study whether the returns can be explained using any of the hypotheses mentioned above. We formulate the following hypotheses: HHHH1111: There is no significant abnormal return around the exsplit date. HHHH2222: If H1 rejected, returns are identical for all firms in sample. HHHH3333: and H2 the abnormal observed around event window [1,+1] can be attributed to publicly available information based on one or more of theoretical hypotheses above. HHHH4444: If H3 is true, a similar explanation can be made using this data for different time horizons around the exdate. An event study framework is employed to test the above hypotheses. An OLS regression model is used for determining the factors for the occurrence of abnormal returns across the event window. 14 3333. . DDDDaaaatttta a aaaannnnd d MMMMeeeetttthhhhooooddddoooollllooooggggy y 3333.1 DDDDaaaatttta a CCCCoooolllllllleeeeccccttttiiiioooon n The basic sample is comprised of all Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) equity stocks that have split between January 2006 and March 2009. The National Stock Exchange website was used to download list of stocks that have undergone a stock split in this period. There were a total of 151 stock splits during the period. All financial data series for these stocks like daily closing adjusted prices, market capitalization, trading volume and market indices were downloaded from Thomson DataStream. The following criteria have been applied to include a company in the sample. i) The stock price data is available for 260 days prior to the exsplit date. ii) Data for 260 days are available for the postsplit period. iii) Where a stock has split more than once in the sample period, the first exsplit date was considered. iv) Other required financial information is available. After filtering on the basis of the above criteria, the number of firms on which the analysis could be carried out was 99. 3333.2 DDDDaaaatttta a AAAAnnnnaaaallllyyyyssssiiiis s Table 1A Table 1B below show summary statistics of the sample stocks used for this study. There is an even distribution of stock splits in each year of the sample period indicating normal stock split activity in the Indian equity market 15 for the given period. However, analysis on a monthly basis reveals that August, September and October are the most active months for stock splits, possibly indicating a preference by firms to execute the split around that time. More than 40 percent of the firms in the sample have the stock split in this period. 5:1 split is the most common split ratio (57 firms) in the sample followed by 10:1 and 2:1 split ratios. For the 4:1, 6:1 and 5:2 split ratios, there is only one stock in the sample period. Therefore, summary statistics for these stocks were not calculated as any observations made would be a result of a very firm specific performance and not a general conclusion. The average price for the 2:1, 5:1 and 10:1 split sizes are Rs. 229.99, Rs. 192.30 and Rs. 215.27 respectively. No conclusive relation between the stock price and the split ratio can be inferred from the maximum and minimum values shown below. The average marketcap for the 2:1, 5:1 and 10:1 split sizes are Rs. 13068.56 million, Rs. 57129.56 million and Rs. 87126 million respectively. The average market capitalization is observed to increase with higher split ratio possibly indicating that the largecap stocks are the ones that usually opt for the higher split ratio. 16 TTTTaaaabbbblllle e 1111AAAA: : SSSSttttoooocccck k SSSSpppplllliiiit t ssssaaaammmmpppplllle e ddddiiiissssttttrrrriiiibbbbuuuuttttiiiioooon n TTTTaaaabbbblllle e 1111BBBB: : SSSSttttoooocccck k SSSSpppplllliiiit t ssssuuuummmmmmmmaaaarrrry y ssssttttaaaattttiiiissssttttiiiiccccs s 17 3333.3 MMMMeeeetttthhhhooooddddoooollllooooggggy y EEEEvvvveeeennnnt t bbbbaaaasssseeeed d ssssttttuuuuddddy y Event studies start with hypothesis about how a particular event affects the value of a firm. The hypothesis that the value of the company has changed will be translated in the stock showing an abnormal return. Coupled with the notion that the information is readily impounded into prices, the concept of abnormal returns (or performance) is the central key of event study methods. How does a particular event affect the value of a company? We must be careful because at any time we observe a mixture of market wide factors and a bunch of other firm events. To correctly measure the impact of a particular event we need to control for those unrelated factors. The selection of the benchmark to use or the model to measure normal returns is therefore central to conduct an event study. The empirical model can be stated as follows: when an event occurs, market participants revise their beliefs causing a shift in the firms return generati ng process. For a given security, in non event periods, Rt = xt B + et while in event periods, Rt = xtB + FG + et Rt is the return of the security in period t, xt is a vector of independent variables (for example the return of the market portfolio) in period t, B is a vector of parameters, such as the security beta, F is a row vector of firm characteristics influencing the impact of the event on the return process. G is a vector of parameters measuring the influence of F on the impact of 18 the event and et is a mean zero disturbance term possibly differing in event and non event periods. Hypotheses usually centre on the parameters that measure the influence of the event (G) and most of the times F is set to unity. The null hypothesis is that such an event has no impact on the return generating process. Event study methods are the econometric techniques used to estimate and draw inferences about the impact of an event in a particular period or over several periods. The most common approach involves three steps: (1) Compute the parameters in the estimation period; (2) Compute the forecast errors (and obtain variance/covariance information) for a period or over an event window; aggregate across firms and infer about the average effect; (3) Regress crosssectional abnormal returns on relevant features of the stock supposed to influence the impact of the event. In this study, the event is the split execution date, defined as day 0. The event splits the sample into two sets – the presplit period and the postsplit period. The presplit period considered in this study is a period of 260 days prior to the event date (260 days to 1 day) and the postsplit period is the period of 260 days after the event date (+1 day to +260 days). This leads to a total period of 521 trading days data for each stock (including the split date) centered around the event date for that stock. In essence, all stocks are aligned according to their event timeline. The estimation window is the 220 day period from 260 to 41 trading days. A similar event based alignment of data was performed for the other financial data namely market capitalization, market index and trading volume. In this study, the benchmark index chosen for running the regression for the market model is the BSE 100 index. The index price was also aligned according to the split date for each stock t o obtain comparable market 19 return at and around the event date. The Brown and Warner (1985) methodology is applied to test for the significance of abnormal returns. Regressions to estimate the parameters of the market model The standard single index asset pricing model is used to estimate the market parameters ( ÃŽ ² and c). The market model used to estimate the parameters is given as below: Ri = ÃŽ ²Rm + c where Ri – expected return of stock i Rm – market return c constant of regression

Comparing Christianity and Stoicism Essay -- Comparison Compare Contra

Introduction Over the course of human history every society, even the most culturally isolated of civilizations, has developed some form of faith-system for interpreting and understanding the spiritual and material worlds. Thousands of such systems have existed over the centuries, and as tribes and cultures expanded, these faith-systems inevitably met each other face-to-face and clashed. Two thousand years ago there was a particularly important collision; one between the Roman stoic and the gentile Christian. At this time in Western civilization, Christianity was just planting its seeds and beginning to grow, whereas stoicism was already legitimate in its foundation and strong in its following (Stavrianos 100). One might wonder how Christianity ultimately replaced stoicism as the prominent and official religion in Rome. There are a few particular political and historical events that tell us exactly when and how it happened, but the curious man is more concerned with the psychology behi nd the transition. In other words, why would men tend to prefer one over the other? Before one can explain this, it is necessary to understand fully the particulars of each system. In general, most faith systems can be understood in three parts: logic, physics, and ethics. There is a famous garden metaphor for understanding the relationship among the three. One should imagine a walled garden where inside there grows a single plant. This plant produces a fruit. Metaphorically, the wall symbolizes logic, the plant represents physics and the fruit symbolizes ethics. Accordingly, the wall of logic protects physics and ethics. Ethics is the fruit that results from studying physics, which is the cosmic order of things. Ethic... ...erer from sin while stoicism offered man an internal battle against himself. It should come as no surprise that Christianity prevailed. Works Cited    Alighieri, Dante. The Divine Comedy. Translation and Introduction by Mark Musa. New York: Penguin, 1995. Barker, Kenneth. The NIV Study Bible. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1995. Clarke, M.L. The Roman Mind. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1960. Metzger, Bruce M. The Oxford Companion to the Bible. 1993. Murray, Gilbert. Stoic, Christian and Humanist. London: C.A. Watts, 1940. Seneca, Lucius Annaeus. Letters From a Stoic. Translation and Introduction by Robin Campbell. New York: Penguin, 1969. Stavrianos, L.S. A Global History: From Prehistory to the Present. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 1988. Wenley, T.M. Stoicism and its Influences. New York: Cooper Square Publishers, 1963.

Analysis of Loneliness in Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men Essay

John Steinbeck – the creator of the famous: Of Mice and Men, was born in 1902 in California; near Solidad. His family were quite wealthy, but he was interested in farm labouring, and this is how he materialised most of his stories. He wrote a number of novels about people that were farmers and yearned for better lifestyles including The Grapes of Wrath, which is a touching story about a family’s struggle to escape the dust bowl of the West to reach California. Steinbeck was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1962, six years before his death in 1968. The title of the novel: Of Mice and Men, originates from a poem made by a Scottish poet named; Robert Burn. It comes from the line that says: â€Å"The best laid schemes o’ Mice an’ Men, gang aft agley.† From using a translated version of the poem, I induced that this means: The best-laid plans of mice and men often go askew. People can have enormous dreams, that they continue to plan how to get towards, but things have a way of falling apart and sometimes turning tragic. In my essay, I am going to talk about the main characters in Of Mice and Men, and I will discuss how each of the characters befriends loneliness. Of Mice and Men is one of the spectacular novella’s which was written by John Steinbeck. It is about two men that go travelling together that come across many unworldly experiences. The first of the two men: Lennie Small – a large man – in contrast to his name, has broad shoulders and a large body frame. His companion, George Milton, is quite opposite, he is small and slim. Lennie also has a disability; this is the main reason why the two men go travelling ‘together’. George is the brainpower of the two men and is a man that is just trying to live a normal life and earn a living. The novella starts when Lennie and George are escaping a place called Weed due to Lennie’s liking for touching things that are ‘soft’. Lennie likes the look of a woman’s dress, so feels the necessity to experiment. The woman believes that he is attacking her so she runs away and alerts the lynch mob of the area. Lennie and George are forced into hiding till the lynch mob finally retreats. Then, they decide to start a new life, and so the phenomenal story begins. Two migrant workers: Lennie Small and George Milton, come to a ranch in Soledad to â€Å"work up a stake†. They hope one day to fulfil their shared dream of settling down on their own land. Lennie’s part of the dream is never forgotten throughout the short novel – which is to have soft rabbits that he can tend. The quick-witted George thinks of a great plan if there is a repeat of what happened at Weed. He tells Lennie that he will not get to â€Å"tend the rabbits† if he gets into any trouble. The threat helps prolong the time that they get to work on the ranch. When they finally reach the ranch, their dream appears to become possible. Candy, the aged, one-handed ranch-hand, employs the idea that he can pitch in with George and Lennie so that they can buy their dream land by the end of the month. The dream is dismantled when George kills the attractive, wife of Curley, the ranch owner’s son, while trying to stroke her hair. A lynch mob led by Curley gathers. George decides to be practical and decides to spare Lennie from a painful death at the hands of the evil, antagonizing Curley, and his crew. George shoots Lennie in the back of this head before the mob can locate where they are. The shot comes while Lennie is distracted by one last retelling of the dream. At the beginning of the text, a sense of loneliness is emitted by John Steinbeck. He describes one of the men – George – to be walking in front of the other. After having been dropped off at the wrong destination, George and Lennie decide to walk the last few miles to the ranch. Steinbeck’s description of the way they walk inevitably shows the status of both men. Even without knowing that Lennie has a disability, we are notified that one of the men is superior to the other. George seems to have a higher profile to that of Lennie because George is walking in front of Lennie; steering Lennie’s movement. Lennie is walking behind George even though the place they are currently trudging is â€Å"open†. He appears to need a leader in order to arrive at a place successfully. This is a very extraordinary quality – although the path is wide enough for the two men to walk, one chooses to be guided by the other. The irony of this situation is that Lennie and George are together – yet are profoundly lonely. Lennie shows he needs creature comforts to aid his loneliness. When Lennie and George are walking towards the ranch, they stop to discuss what Lennie has taken from his side pocket. George is intrigued by this mysterious object and says, â€Å"What’d you take outta that pocket?† Lennie replies saying he has nothing in his pocket. He is afraid of losing his only solution to overcoming loneliness. Lennie does not have the ability to engage in discussions with people, so finds another way to entertain him self and finds an animal for a replacement. With animal company, he feels that he is happy and content. Lennie does not want to lose his only diversion for loneliness on account of George’s worries. Lennie’s loneliness is apparent when he starts to copy the actions of his fellow comrade, George. John Steinbeck writes: â€Å"Lennie, who had been watching, imitated George exactly. He pushed himself back drew up his knees, embraced them, looked over to George to see whether he had it just right. He pulled his hat down a little more over his eyes, the way George’s hat was.† The two men stop by a river bank to quench their thirst. Lennie, the bigger of the two men, can not think for him self, because of his disability, so takes to copying his friend to show him how to do things. This is an indicator that Lennie does not really have a personality, he is always doing what everyone around him is doing. Therefore, a sense of loneliness is shown through the way Lennie acts. George shows his disappointment in the lifestyle he is currently living. After George tells Lennie instructions on what to do when they get to the ranch, George ponders how his life would be without Lennie. He â€Å"crossed his hands under his head†. This gesture confirms that George is looking up at the sky thinking about something; in this case – life without the â€Å"trouble†. George talks about the possible lifestyle he could have leaded if he never had to worry about Lennie, saying: â€Å"I could get along so easy and so nice if I didn’t have you on my tail.† This suggests that Lennie believes without his companion, he would have lived a ‘normal,’ happy, life, without having anything, or anyone to worry about. If Lennie did not follow George around everywhere like he were George’s â€Å"tail,† George assumes that he might have been able to make something out of his life. George then goes on to say, â€Å"I could live so easy and maybe have a girl.† George repeats the word easy, showing he feels strongly that his standard of living is ultimately never near to easy. He even imagines that he would be in a relationship if he had not chosen to look after Lennie. On the whole, George considers Lennie to be a constraint in his life, and that without this ‘constraint’ he would have lead a better life. John Steinbeck uses animals as well as humans to show loneliness throughout the story. Intelligently, he chooses to use snakes as a form of isolation. Snakes are very good at displaying loneliness because most water snakes are not usually found in groups. So he chose to use a snake for background loneliness, as oppose to the characters. John Steinbeck writes that the water snake, â€Å"slipped along on the pool† and its head was: â€Å"held up like a little periscope.† From this quotation, I can see that Steinbeck was trying to show that the snake might have been looking for company, and so, it perched its head up hopefully, with the intention of finding anything else that was stirring in the lake. It is confirmed that the old swamper has nothing to do in his spear time. When Lennie and George arrive at the ranch, they start talking to a man that has come to greet them. The two newcomers to the ranch are disgusted by the object lying around the bunk house that indicates the ranch has many faults. After noticing a can that is utilized for killing insects, George begins to worry about the health and safety at their new work place. George says indignantly, â€Å"What the hell kind of bed you giving us anyways we don’t want no pants rabbits.† The challenging remark makes the old swamper retaliate immediately because he is given the chance to socialize with new ranch workers, and he feels it is a great opportunity to make new friends. The old swamper states, â€Å"Last guy that had this bed was a black smith – hell of a nice fella and as clean a guy as you want to meet†¦Ã¢â‚¬  The old swamper is lonely and because of this factor, he has found an occasion when people are actually interested in what he has to say. Therefore, to keep them listening to him, he takes upon telling them stories about different people to keep them in range of conversation. The Old swamper starts talking about all of the men on the ranch. This shows he has been lonely for quite a while and so has not had the chance to gossip about all the men and their lifestyles. Now he has people to talk to that are not associated with the ranch, he uses them to discuss all of the workers on the ranch because he feels he wants to get it off his mind so that he can relax. (He is fit to burst with useless information that he never got to tell anyone). When Lennie and George go to meet the boss and hand him their work slips, Lennie clearly feels left out because he has made a pact that he is not going to engage in any conversation with the boss since he will only spoil things for the two hard workers. George emphasizes that his friend is: â€Å"as strong as a bull.† Lennie feels it is appropriate for him to produce a smile and proudly repeats; â€Å"strong as a bull.† After saying this, he is warned by George. Steinbeck writes: â€Å"George scowled at him, and Lennie dropped his head at having forgotten.† Due to Lennie’s disability he is made to be left out in some situations. This is a very good example; George tells Lennie that he must not talk whilst they are in the mist of talking about their job status, and because Lennie was being commanded by George he feels he has to obey him. In obeying his close friend, (George) he has to be isolated from any conversations that include the Boss of the ranch. The old man with a dog is accused of listening to George and Lennie’s excited discussion. Panicking, George asks if he has heard anything. The old man replies saying: â€Å"A guy on a ranch don’t never listen nor he don’t ast no questions.† The elderly man examines a crucial point about the ranch workers. From this line, we are given the hint that all the men on the ranch are not aware of socializing. They work on the ranch single handed; working hard to get money to spend it foolishly or use it to buy treasures they have always wanted in their lonely lives to cure them of lonesomeness. After talking about Curley’s family tree, the swamper starts to talk about the relationship between Curley and his wife. The swamper is inexperienced in relationships and feels it is right to talk about this topic, especially because Curley’s is the Boss’s son. He wants to gossip about the Boss’s son to pass time, but also, to explain to his new friends -George and Lennie- that the Boss and his family are not perfect. Curley is the main example of why the family is not very close and idealistic. In other words, the old swamper wants to get the point across that the ranch workers are not the only people on the ranch that have to put up with loneliness, and so the Boss’s family are also human, even though they are richer than the â€Å"ranch hands.† George implanted the idea in Lennie’s head that if he ever does anything inhumane, he is not going to be able to â€Å"tend the rabbits† when they finally get their dream land and house. Every time Lennie does something slightly wrong, he becomes sad, because he has child-like thoughts, he is disheartened sourly by the fact that he will not get access to these soft and ‘happy’ animals. This shows his loneliness is deep within him. Even though he does not always show his depression – due to loneliness, like the other men, the way he reacts to George’s encore of: â€Å"if you get into any kind of trouble, you remember what I told you to do,† shows how desperate Lennie is to â€Å"tend the rabbits† – to keep him sane! Slim, the ‘prince’ of the ranch, describes George and Lennie as, â€Å"kinda funny.† This demonstrates that the men on the ranch do not really know how it is like to have a travelling companion. Slim declares that, â€Å"Hardly none of the guys travel together.† The isolation is clear because if none of the men are seen traveling with company, this means that none of the men have ever had a real friendship. However, George and Lennie are different – because they travel together, they stand out and defy the normal â€Å"ranch hands† behavior. George is forced to play solitaire to overcome boredom. The way in which this expresses loneliness is that George is playing a card game that is made for one person only. This shows his isolation from other’s company. The loneliness of Carlson makes him become selfish, as he resorts to killing Candy’s old dog. He does not like the idea of anyone having a companion, so makes the excuse that the dog is causing too much catastrophe by just existing. He says he does not know â€Å"nothing that stinks bad as an old dog.† The way he comprehends this sentence suggests that Carlson does not really mind about the smell coming from the dog because he is categorizing all dogs. This indicates that he feels dogs in general smell; technically, he is not really pin-pointing the idea that Candy’s dog is causing him grief. Therefore, Carlson is only killing the dog because he does not want anyone to have a companion, or he is mercy-killing the dog due to the suffering that the dog might be enduring. In this frame of mind, he might only want to kill the dog to save Candy from the grief when the dog dies naturally. As a result of the killing of the dog, Carlson achieves totalizing the loneliness surrounding the ranch workers. George illustrates how the ranch workers live their ‘normal’ day-to-day lives. He states, â€Å"I seen the guys that go around on the ranches alone. That ain’t no good. They don’ have no fun. After a long time they get mean. They get wantin’ to fight all the time.† From this quotation, we are painted a clear image of how the ranch workers live. The loneliness in the ranch goes around the workers, making them all aggressive and angry. The seclusion of the way the â€Å"ranch hands† live turns all the men bitter and this is how fights break out. All the men walk around the ranch gloomy and bored, so they start fights to pass time, and beat boredom. George confronts Lennie about separating the puppy from his mother saying: â€Å"take this pup back to the nest. He’s gotta sleep with his mother.† Lennie always needs comfort and closure and gets this from animals. He was brought up by his aunt Clara, but she soon died. Because Lennie’s mother abandoned him as a young child, Lennie does not understand why the puppy needs to be with its mother. He does not understand the motherly bond that a child and mother have, or that a puppy and its mother have. We are first fully introduced to Candy when he is questioned about the preference of his â€Å"ancient dog†. Carlson tells him that it is about time that the dog is killed, for his own good, and for the sake of the ranch workers. Carlson is starting to get annoyed by the smell of the old dog, so insists that the dog must be killed on the day. Carlson confronts Candy saying, â€Å"why’n’t you shoot him, Candy?† Without having to think of a come back, Candy immediately retorts saying, â€Å"Well-hell! I had him so long. Had him since he was a pup.† Candy has had his dog since the dog was a puppy, and also mentions that the dog is almost like family; this shows his loyalty and dedication to the mammal. The dog has become his only friend since he has had it for a long time. Candy’s only continuous friend is his dog. When Carlson shows were the shot of the gun will be directed, Candy replies again, without thinking saying, â€Å"No, I couldn’ do that. I had ‘im too long.† Because Candy has had his dog for a lengthy time, he feels that it is hard for his only friend go. He has become emotionally involved with the dog – the dog is a part of him. This is why he is so reluctant to letting the dog go. A while after Candy’s dog is taken away from him to get slaughtered. Candy, even though he does not know George and Lennie, wants to collaborate to get the hose. He would rather buy land with people that he does not know, than go back to living his life suffering from the illness known to many of the ranch hands as – loneliness. After Candy has finished mourning the death of his old dog, he starts to listen to George and Lennie’s discussion about the land they want to buy. He realizes he is not of any additional help to the ranch, and thinks it is time for him to find another location to live a life that is relaxing and that does not consist of too much laborious work. Hopefully, Candy suggests, â€Å"S’pose I went in with you guys.† He believes he has a chance to get away from the ranch, and grabs it at all corners. Candy decides there is nothing left for him at the ranch and it is his time to leave; knowing he will have a better life living elsewhere. The irony of the situation is that in the end of the story, George ends up killing his partner that was supposed to be getting the shared dream house and land. Candy might have therefore, filled the spot of Lennie, even though the bond would not be as good as the bond of Lennie and George. Whitt is introduced when he is talking about a magazine that he purchases; he explains, â€Å"I think your mag is the best dime’s worth I ever spent.† Whitt talks about a person called Bill that worked on the ranch previously. Whitt is lonely and is deduced to gossiping about other people to relieve his boredom. Because of the rarity of friendship on the ranch, Whitt wants to keep the magazine to hold on to his old friend – Bill. He feels he has companionship because his friend’s letter was published in a letter and he was the only person that talked to Bill about the letter before it did not even exist in the eyes of the public. Curley’s wife likes to draw attention to her self in order to get company to socialize. She comes into the bunk house â€Å"fully made up† and wearing red nail polish, asking about her husband. She looks like this because she wants to grab the interest of the men, thus getting their full awareness and successfully managing to converse. Her husband Curley does not talk to her because they are both always looking for each other. So Curley’s wife needs to find other people to talk to. Throughout the story, Curley’s wife is never given a real name; she is always referred to as Curley’s wife. She has become a possession of Curley. They suffer from the same loneliness because they both married into a loveless marriage. We are notified that Curley’s wife wanted to be an actress in Hollywood, but when she never receives the phone call to admit her, she marries Curley. This shows that she did not really want to marry Curley, but she felt it was right to marry Curley because she needed someone to care for her because she could not have the job that she wanted. Crooks is a â€Å"busybody† because he feels it is his job to inform Slim on the whereabouts of Lennie. He states, â€Å"That big new guy’s messin’ around your pups out in the barn.† Then he goes on to explain what Lennie was doing with them: â€Å"He’s takin’ em outta the nest and handlin’ them.† The ranch workers gossip because this is the only way that they can communicate. To relieve their unhappiness and loneliness they are forced to pay for company. The boss’s son, Curley, appears to be the loneliest person on the ranch. After coming from one of his detours, Curley is subjected to finding his ‘other half.’ When Curley is looking for his wife, he has to turn to the workers for advice. He says, â€Å"You seen a girl around here?† demanding an answer from the men. When he says this, he ensures he gets a quick response with no unnecessary information. Instead of greeting the men warmly, and then introducing his query, he gets straight to the point, requesting a valid answer. Curley does not have much experience talking to people since he is always either in town or looking for his ‘wife.’ Another factor that could be the answer to why Curley is always aggressive towards any human company is that he has turned bitter because he is lonely. Although he has a wife, she is never around for him to talk to her – so his socializing skills are limited. To add to this, Curley might have had a lon ely childhood because he grew up on the ranch and did not have the opportunity to play and talk with someone his age – all of the ranch workers are adults. As a result of this, Curley turned out to be an outspoken, patronizing adult. Crooks finally gets his chance to emit all the emotions he is feeling. When he receives this opportunity, we begin to realize the extent of his loneliness. Lennie is bored because all the other workers have gone to town, and he has no one to talk to so he decides to visit his puppy in the barn. Instead, he meets the stable buck – Crooks. They start to talk and Crooks says, â€Å"There wasn’t another colored family for miles around.† From this quotation, we get to look into how Crooks feels; vulnerable and singled out. This also shows how he feels at the ranch; because he is the only black person on the ranch he feels different, almost an outcast. He then goes on to talk about his status on the ranch, saying: â€Å"This is just a nigger talkin’, an’ a busted-back nigger. So it don’t mean nothing, see?† Crooks believes that because he has a disability, this is another reason why the men on the ranch are not likely to want to talk to him. He feels like he does not exist because a lot of people take no notice of what he says. He does not have anyone to talk to. For being alone, Crooks could leave his things about and being a stable buck and a cripple, his actions are not arguable. Crooks is separated from everyone so he believes none of the men take notice of him. He mentions that he is the only black person for miles, because of this, he feels vulnerable and singled out. When Crooks is talking to Lennie, he tries to make Lennie see his life from his perspective. Lennie has gone into the barn to see his puppy because all of the other men have gone into town. Instead of seeing the puppy, he meets the stable buck – Crooks. He has finally managed to get to talk to a person and have a full conversation; so uses this opportunity to let someone else feel the hurt and loneliness that he has had to endure for most of his life. Crooks states, â€Å"Well, s’pose he don’t come back. What’ll you do then?† Crooks feels isolated and because of this, he wants one person to try and even image the loneliness that he has to suffer each day. Lennie retreats to the place George told him to go if ever he got in trouble – â€Å"the brush.† He starts to hallucinate; seeing his aunt Clara. Lennie turns immediately at the sound of any company. Due to his loneliness, he wants a companion, so he seeks comfort and manages to conjure up a hallucinated version of his Aunt Clara. John Steinbeck cleverly makes the illusion speak with Lennie’s voice. I believe the image was Lennie’s conscious, making excuses for why Lennie is going to be killed by George in the future; but because of Lennie’s mental incapability’s, he does not receive this warning in time. Lennie needs constant reassurance from George that their lives will be better when they buy their own place to live. So tells George to recite their dream, showing he always wants to look at the bright side because his life is miserable. Lennie is near a pool waiting for George to arrive, so that the two men can flee to another ‘ranch’. Then, George arrives disheartened and Lennie says immediately, â€Å"Tell me like you done before.† Then George replies reluctantly, â€Å"Tell you what?† Lennie then says, â€Å"Bout the other guys an’ about us.† Then George starts to describe â€Å"how it’s gonna be.† George does not want Lennie to feel lonely when he dies so tells him to look across the forest, to make sure Lennie is not aware of the situation – and that his only companion dies peacefully. George shoots, and after, he feels very sad for killing Lennie, although does not feel regretful. His future now looks bleak, in term s of companionship. I believe the loneliest person on the ranch is the Boss. He is the character that gives orders to all of the workers around and just gets money coming in for doing practically no work. In accordance to this, he probably does not have much entertainment at home because he does not need to work for his money, because he is fortunate enough to have bought the ranch. The only time that we hear about the boss is when he is accepting George and Lennie’s work slips. This promotes the idea that the Boss is not very included in the society of the ranch, and is therefore, more prone to getting lonely than the other men on the ranch. The workers can talk to other workers whilst they are keeping themselves busy working to make money. The boss is a typical leader that receives money for just having the title: ‘Boss’. Furthermore, there is no mention of the boss having a wife in the book, so the only relative family that he has is Curley. This makes matters worse for the boss b ecause Curley is always in town or looking for his wife. So explains why the Boss deserves the title: â€Å"loneliest being.†

Leadership literature Essay

I can distill my personal command philosophy into four concepts†¦no catch phrases or buzz words†¦just simple principles[a1]  .   First, a commander needs to shut up [a2]  and let their [a3]  folks do their job as much as possible.   Second, a commander must clearly understand what the [a4]  individuals and organization expect from them.   Third, a commander must create their own reality.   Finally, a commander must be genuine.   Before explaining, I should probably qualify that what I’m[a5]   about to say is a product of my warped set of experiences.   It is in no way meant to be derisive or satirical†¦it’s just what I know to be true. Surely everyone is familiar with the notion that a well-executed, mediocre plan is much better than a poorly-executed perfect plan.   This [a6]  is the crux of empowering people.   Countless times[a7]   I have observed people discussing different approaches to a problem often pitting leaders against workers on how to skin the cat.   Unfortunately, the leader usually weighs in with the final say even overruling subject matter experts. [a8]   This leaves the subordinates to swallow the â€Å"front office† solution and try to make it work. Of course [a9]  most employees are good followers and they make it happen according to plan but there are several drawbacks of the top-down approach.   [a10]  First, it can take time for people to buy into a solution they played no part in conceiving.   Second, it can stifle solutions from the experts in the future. Third, it pulls the leader further into the weeds as direction is necessary to verify and vector progress[a11]  .   Why is this so hard to achieve in practice?   Perhaps it is personality driven, or perhaps it is instilled by senior mentors, but   for [a12]  some reason most leaders seem to lack the mental or moral aptitude to let folks press with solutions they deem â€Å"inferior.†Ã‚   Why not ask, â€Å"What do you think we should do?† and give that solution your full support.   Folks will take immediate ownership and you’ll be floored [a13]  by the results. Leadership literature is filled with cursory calls for the leader to communicate their [a14]  vision, goals and expectation.   Honestly, this somewhat of a cop out[a15]  .   Of course a leader needs to take an organization in [a16]  a clear direction, but [a17]  that direction has everything to do with context.   It is completely absurd to create a vision or organizational climate that fosters risk taking [a18]  at a nuclear base or rapid uninformed decisions in an engineering design flight. Likewise, it is equally ridiculous to roll into a squadron trying to pump [a19]  everyone up following a commander that rode them all into the ground during an ORI[a20]  .   A wise commander would take a moment to figure out, â€Å"What does this unit need from me?†Ã‚   Do they need a disciplinarian to check rampant DUIs?   Do they need a personable/approachable commander to get them through a recent suicide?   Perhaps they just need some top cover from the group or wing so they can get their jobs done.   Of course this will vary during a commander’s tenure as events occur and the personality [a21]  of the organization changes; the key to know what your folks expect of you. [a22] We’ve heard the anecdotes contrasting the impact different commanders have on the same organization, â€Å"under Col Smith my unit happy [a23]  and effective but after Col Jones took command, we were miserable and unproductive.†Ã‚   This is a good illustration of how commanders create their own reality.   Commander and supervisors who lament over their long hours, stressful environment and massive workload cannot improve their plight until they realize that they create this reality. Typically this frenetic environment is the result of a combination of poor organizational skills, micromanagement, lack of decision making and insufficient triage.   Conversely, the alternate universe that a commander should seek to create is one where folks understand what’s important, are trusted to work those priorities and insulated from distractions.   Likewise, the commander needs to be competent enough to know when to make a decision and when to shut up.   It all sounds simple, but in practice, creating this reality can be very difficult especially if there are strong type-A personalities within the unit or in the chain of command. The final concept and one that a commander has the least control over is sincerity.   One can do all the right things and say all the right things [a24]  but still be ineffective if they are not true to themselves.   If a commander isn’t passionate about what they [a25]  are [a26]  doing, doesn’t care about their[a27]   unit, or doesn’t respect their [a28]  boss, no amount of tap dancing or rhetoric will mask it.   This can be the result of apathy, narcissism or any number of other traits but it always shines through. Likewise, if a soft-spoken introvert wants to become a cheer-leading, fist-pumping commander, it will fall short.   Some amount of self-centeredness can be mitigated through education, self-reflection and mentoring but only to an extent.   Similarly, changing personal techniques or leadership styles to suit a specific situation can compensate for some personality traits.   The bottom line is that I would much rather work for a commander that was an uncharismatic, wrinkled blob who truly cared over the ‘GQ[a29]  ,’ smooth-talking egotist irrespective of how competent, ethical or confident they were. You might be thinking, â€Å"wait a minute, this guy is forgetting all the important stuff like core values, standards and discipline.†Ã‚   Well, yes, I did†¦I only have three pages and so accept these â€Å"bumper stickers† as given.   Will I expect service, integrity and excellence?   Absolutely!   Do I plan to emphasize safety, accountability and ethics?   No doubt!   I’m a military professional—anything less would be unacceptable.   It is actually these fuzzy principles (and others like them) that distinguish the vision-puking, smooth-talking automaton from an effective commander and leader in my book[a30]  .

Abe Lincoln1 essays

Abe Lincoln1 essays History Essay The United Sates declared its independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. Great Britain did not recognize its independence until, the Treaty of Paris, two years after the American forces defeated the Britain army at the siege of Yorktown. Since the Articles of Confederation were replaced by the U.S. Constitution in 1789, the United States has had forty-two different presidents. Among these presidents, two of the best have were George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln. This essay will prove that George Washington was the greatest U.S. president of all time. There are certain attributes that good presidents have. It is said that good presidents are always stubborn and disagreeable. 1 Along with those two qualities good presidents are intelligent, selfless, hard working, good communicators, good listeners, good problem solving tactics, determination, and they are able to recognize problems. George Washingtons rise to power started in 1732 when he was born, in Westmorela nd, Virginia on his fathers farm. He lived until 1799, when he died at the age of sixty-seven. He served as president from 1789 threw until 1797. When growing up, George received most of his education from his father and older brother. When he was 17 he was named the surveyor of Culpeper County, this was the first public office position he held.2 When Washington was finished surveying, in November of 1752, he was appointed the adjutant in the colonial militia. His first mission did not come until the following summer, when he volunteered to take a message from Governor, to the French commander. Following this mission he was brought to the kings attention, and he was given a lieutenant colonels commission.3 Washington showed his opposition to Britain started in 1759 when he became a member of Virginias House of Burgesses. He was known to be shy and reserved4 but he opposed the British rules and re...

brown vs. board of education Essay Example

brown vs. board of education Essay Example brown vs. board of education Essay brown vs. board of education Essay The case that came to be known as Brown v. Board of Education was actually the name given to five separate cases that were heard by the U. S. Supreme Court concerning the issue of segregation in public schools. These cases were Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Briggs v. Elliot, Davis v. Board of Education of Prince Edward County (VA. ), Boiling v. Sharpe, and Gebhart v. Ethel. While the facts of each case are different, the main issue in each was the constitutionality of state-sponsored segregation in public schools. Once again, Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund handled these cases. Although it acknowledged some of the plaintiffs/plaintiffs claims, a three-judge panel at the U. S. District Court that heard the cases ruled in favor of the school boards. The plaintiffs then appealed to the U. S. Supreme Court. When the cases came before the Supreme Court in 1952, the Court consolidated all five cases under the name of Brown v. Board of Education. Marshall personally argued the case before the Court. Although he raised a variety of legal issues on appeal, the most common one was that separate school systems for lacks and whites were inherently unequal, and thus violate the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution. Furthermore, relying on sociological tests, such as the one performed by social scientist Kenneth Clark, and other data, he also argued that segregated school systems had a tendency to make black children feel inferior to white children, and thus such a system should not be legally permissible. Meeting to decide the case, the Justices of the Supreme Court realized that they were deeply divided over the issues raised. While most anted to reverse Plessy and declare segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional, they had various reasons for doing so. Unable to come to a solution by June 1953 (the end of the Courts 1952-1953 term), the Court decided to rehear the case in December 1953. During the intervening months, however, Chief Justice Fred Vinson died and was replaced by Gov. Earl Warren of California. After the case was reheard in 1953, Chief Justice Warren was able to do something that his predecessor had not†i. . bring all of the Justices to agree to support a unanimous decision eclaring segregation in public schools unconstitutional. On May 14, 1954, he delivered the opinion of the Court, stating that We conclude that in the field of public education the doctrine of separate but equal has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.. E xpecting opposition to its ruling, especially in the southern states, the Supreme Court did not immediately try to give direction for the implementation of its ruling. Rather, it asked the attorney generals of all states with laws permitting segregation in their public schools to submit plans or how to proceed with desegregation. After still more hearings before the Court concerning the matter of desegregation, on May 31, 1955, the Justices handed down a plan for how it was to proceed; desegregation was to proceed with all deliberate speed. Although it would be many years before all segregated school systems were to be desegregated, Brown and Brown II (as the Courts plan for how to desegregate schools came to be called) were responsible for getting the process underway. Facts This case is a consolidation of several different cases from Kansas, South Carolina, Vlrglnla, ana Delaware. several DlacK cn llaren (tnrougn tnelr legal representatlves, Ps sought admission to public schools that required or permitted segregation based on race. The plaintiffs alleged that segregation was unconstitutional under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. In all but one case, a three Judge federal district court cited Plessy v. Ferguson in denying relief under the separate but equal doctrine. On appeal to the Supreme Court, the plaintiffs contended that segregated schools were not and could not be made equal and that they were herefore deprived of equal protection of the laws. Issue Is the race-based segregation of children into separate but equal public schools constitutional? Holding and Rule (Warren) No. The race-based segregation of children into separate but equal public schools violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and is unconstitutional. Segregation of children in the public schools solely on the basis of race denies to black children the equal protection of the laws guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment, even though the physical facilities and other may be equal. Education in public schools is a right which must be made available to all on equal terms. The question presented in these cases must be determined not on the basis of conditions existing when the Fourteenth Amendment was adopted, but in the light of the role of public education in American life today. The separate but equal doctrine adopted in Plessy v. Ferguson, which applied to transportation, has no place in the field of public education. Separating black children from others solely because of their race generates a feeling of inferiority as to their status in the community that ay affect their hearts and minds in a way unlikely ever to be undone. The impact of segregation is greater when it has the sanction of law. A sense of inferiority affects the motivation of a child to learn. Segregation with the sanction of law tends to impede the educational and mental development of black children and deprives them of some of the benefits they would receive in an integrated school system. Essay Brown v. Board of Education The case of brown v. board of education was one of the biggest turning points for African Americans to becoming accepted into white society at the time. Brown vs. Board of education to this day remains one of, if not the most important cases that African Americans have brought to the surface for the better of the United States. Brown v. Board of Education was not simply about children and education (Silent Covenants pg 1 1); it was about being equal in a society that claims African Americans were treated equal, when in fact they were definitely not. This case was the starting point for many Americans to realize that separate but equal did not work. The separate but equal label did not make sense either, the circumstances were clearly not separate but equal. Brown v. Board of Education brought this out, this case was the reason that blacks and whites no longer have separate restrooms and water fountains, this was the case that truly destroyed the saying separate but equal, Brown vs. Board of education truly made everyone equal. The case started in Topeka, Kansas, a black third-grader named Linda Brown had to walk one mile through a railroad switchyard to get to her black elementary school, even though a white elementary school was only seven blocks away. Lindas father, Oliver Brown, tried to enroll ner In tne wnlte elementary scnool seven DlocKs Trom ner nouse, out tne rincipal of the school refused simply because the child was black. Brown went to McKinley Burnett, the head of Topekas branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and asked for help (All Deliberate Speed pg 23). The NAACP was eager to assist the Browns, as it had long wanted to challenge segregation in public schools. The NAACP was looking for a case like this because they fgured if they could Just expose what had really been going on in separate but equal society that the circumstances really were not separate but equal.

How to French Interrogative Pronouns Qui and Que

How to French Interrogative Pronouns Qui and Que French has three interrogative pronouns: qui  que, and lequel, which are used to ask questions. They all have differences in meaning and usage. Note that lequel  is a more complicated case and, as such, is addressed separately. Also, while qui and que are also  relative pronouns,  we are only discussing them here in their function as interrogative pronouns. How to Use Qui   Qui  means  who  or  whom; it is used when asking about people. When  who  is the  subject  of the question, you can use either  qui  or  qui est-ce qui. The word order cannot be inverted, and the verb is always third person singular. Qui veut le faire  ? / Qui est-ce qui veut le faire  ?   Who wants to do it?Qui parle  ? / Qui est-ce qui parle  ?   Who is speaking? When whom is the object of the question, qui can be followed by either est-ce que or inversion, as in: Qui est-ce que vous aimez  ? / Qui aimez-vous ?   Whom do you love?Qui est-ce que tu vois  ? / Qui vois-tu  ?   Whom do you see? Qui can also follow a preposition. qui est-ce que tu parles  ? / qui parles-tu  ?   To whom are you speaking?De qui est-ce que tu dà ©pends  ? / De qui dà ©pends-tu  ?   Upon whom do you depend? How to Use Que Que means what and is used to refer to ideas or things. When  what  is the subject of the question, you must use  quest-ce qui  followed by a verb in the third person singular, with no inversion. Quest-ce qui se passe  ?   Whats happening?Quest-ce qui est tombà © sur la terre  ?   What fell on the ground? When what is the object of the question, it can be followed by est-ce que or inversion. Quest-ce quil veut  ? / Que veut-il  ?   What does he want?Quest-ce que tu penses de mon idà ©e  ? / Que penses-tu de mon idà ©e  ?   What do you think of my idea?Quest-ce que cest (que cela)  ?   What is that? Que to Quoi After a preposition, que changes to quoi. De quoi est-ce que vous parlez  ? / De quoi parlez-vous ?   What are you talking about? quoi est-ce quil travaille  ? / quoi travaille-t-il  ?   Whats he working on? More Examples of the Interrogative  Qui and Que Qui donc ta frappà ©Ã‚  ?   Who hit you? Qui est-ce qui en veut  ?   Who wants some ? Qui cherchez-vous  ?   Who are you looking for? Cest qui  ?  Ã‚  Whose is it,  to whom does it belong? qui le tour  ?   Whose turn (is it) ? De qui parles-tu  ?   Who  (ou  whom) are you talking about? Qui est-ce que tu connais ici  ?   Who do you know around here? qui est-ce que je dois de largent  ?   Who do I owe money to ?,  to whom do I owe money?  (soutenu) Quy a-t-il  ?   Whats the matter ? Que devient-elle  ?   Whats become of her? Quest-ce que je vois / jentends  ? What is this I see / hear ? Quest-ce qui tarrive  ?   Whats the matter with you? Quest-ce que la libertà ©Ã‚  ?   What is freedom? Summary of French Interrogative Pronouns Subject of question Object of question After preposition People quiqui est-ce qui quiqui est-ce que qui Things quest-ce qui quequest-ce que quoi

The Sources for Accounting Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Sources for Accounting - Research Paper Example The accountants need to undertake the researchers for identifying the area where the change can make and suggest as per the requirement.   The reports produced by the financial regulatory bodies, used as authentic sources by the researchers. The financial regulatory bodies like International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), International Auditing and Accounting Standards Board (IAASB) used to prepare the regulations, which followed by the companies to prepare the financial statements and follow the process of auditing. They used to prepare the reports, which is suggestive for the development of the financial process. The accountants use the reports as a source to identify the current accounting practices. In the year 2008, IAASB has prepared a report for identifying the problems of auditing the fair value estimates. For the financial crisis of 2007-2010, one of the causes identified by the bodies was the wrong process of auditing by the auditors in the area of fair value accounti ng. IAASB has recommended that the auditors should understand the entity means the assets and the environment of the company to value the assets. The auditor has to find out about the internal control of the company, based on this an estimation can be made about the asset. The auditor should assess the risks associated with that material, also should analyze the expertise of the concerned person who made the estimate about the asset. The auditor should also take the representation of the management in consideration, should assess their plan using the asset (IAASB, pp.1-11). The accounting professionals prefer the report because it was prepared by a professional organization, which is also a regulatory body of the accounting practices. Sources from Company Websites When a researcher wants to analyze the financial condition of a company, then they can find it from various sources. They can find it on many blog sites, where the analysts analyze those statements from their personal view point. If the researchers use the sources then they may not find the reason behind their analysis, the frameworks used by the bloggers etc. In spite of all these, the researchers use the reports published by the company directly. Those reports published by the company management contents the notes related to the financial statements. The notes regarding the statements show all the reasons behind the entries in the financial statements. All the related information about the financial statements is included in the annual report. As an addendum, the researcher also gets the information about the ownership of the organization, the compensation of the executives, the size, and operations of the company etc, which is important when the person wants to analyze the company and take the decision about that. When a researcher wants to take a decision about whether to invest or not in Coca-Cola then he can find the information on many websites, or he can take the suggestion from the existing i nvestors. However, the investors’ suggestion may drive the decision of the investor in a wrong way.  Ã‚  

REPORT-Telsa Motors Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words - 1

REPORT-Telsa Motors - Essay Example It must also look for strategies that are sustainable, acceptable and feasible when seeking to maintain a competitive edge in the industry. Other companies are also making good use of the stable social attributes that meet the core demands of the society through the development of new strategies while reinforcing the present one. Franchising would be a good idea for its new European market as well as using stability strategies in the new markets. Diversification will provide Tesla with the needed understanding of the market and an opportunity to come up with new means of creating a stable cash flow. The automotive industry has been growing at an exponential rate given the increased globalisation. Financial developments have also made it easier for people to afford cars from different dealers. This has allowed them to make better choices in meeting their main demands, as well as allow the growth of the society based on their purchasing power. Ideally, the industry has also been a big boost to the growth of the economy. This means it has had different encounters with a variety of forces such as the political, social, economic, legal, technological and the main attributes that assist the companies to develop better from a global perspective. Of greater importance in this report is the Tesla motor company. This will be reviewed based on its external and internal environments, strategic positioning and PR. Any company that wishes to grow its profitability and market share must be willing to conduct an audit of its services in a variety of departments to effect changes where need be. It is important to note that the automotive industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Globalisation has played a key role in making companies expand their reach across the globe. The aspect of outsourcing has also played a huge role in meeting the main demands of these

PR trends contributing to growth Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

PR trends contributing to growth - Assignment Example One part of the public that has increased influence on the growth of PR in organization is confrontation with activist groups like Greenpeace. Activism has become more relevant to the PR field for several reasons, including the fact that organizations have to become more effective in dealing with these groups (Theaker & Yaxley, 2013). Moreover, activism has become a major rejuvenator for organizations as management has to change the way that they manage their relationship with activist groups in society. The McLibel case is a good example of how companies have been forced to change their PR strategy to deal with activist groups, as well as providing a blueprint for research into activism’s cause and effect relationship with organizations. In this case, McDonalds had been spending almost $2 billion on promotion and advertising its products and restaurants annually because of a firm belief in defending their reputation (Theaker & Yaxley, 2013). Defense of the company’s reputation was also taken up through legal action, whereby most of their critics were forced to apologize in order to avoid litigation. However, this strategy of attempting to remain unchallenged was tested when the activist group Greenpeace attempted to effect a change in their policy. Their libel action against McDonalds started when they designed and distributed a leaflet about what was wrong about McDonalds and what the company did not want the public to know about their operations. They criticized McD onalds of being partly responsible for starvation in developing nations, as well as for the destruction of tropical rainforests. Moreover, McDonalds was also accused of exploiting children in their promotions and ads, animal cruelty, poor working conditions for employees, and serving food that could cause heart disease and cancer (Theaker & Yaxley, 2013). The activist

Personal statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 39

Personal Statement Example I had a chance to learn ethics and professional requirements for practice. The course mainly provided an opportunity to gain experience out of numerous chances of exercising that I had. I graduated in fall 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy degree. I also undertook a community health program in the past, which gave me an advantage of experience in medical practice. The latter program gave me an insight of what it means to sacrifice for the patients and prepared my leadership skills. I appreciate the role that these courses play in shaping my professionalism in medical practice. Such a field requires the highest levels of professional competence because it involves handling life. The course is also a preparation for aspiring medical personnel to learn how to tackle challenging situations. My goal is to improve my knowledge in respiratory therapy and training to a Ph.D. level and become an Academic Professor. My education background combines with my experience to shape my career. For instance, I worked as a surgical assistant for two years. I volunteered with to organizations called Us to US and Hand by Hand to help seniors in cleaning their houses. At times, the work involved mowing grass and arranging activities in Hartford such as Hartford Marathon, which takes place every year. I also worked as a treasure for the Saudi club at the University of Hartford from 2013 - 2014. I also founded a soccer team called Victory FC and won soccer tournaments in 2012, 2013, and 2014. These experiences shaped my perception of community values, always giving to the needy. I believe that the work of a medical practitioner is more than treating; it is about caring. Studying at Rush University will give a chance to further my experience and shape my professionalism. I hope to spend much of my time at the school dealing with practical approaches to all the courses, which I shall undertake. My time at the University will

Case Analysis Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Case Analysis - Coursework Example The surplus khaki comes in different colors such as French navy, deep moss, chino black, chino steel and chino ginseng. The stripe khaki has two colors namely navy stripe and khaki stripe. The weekend straight fit khaki is available in stone and khaki. The price for these types of khaki pants is $44.50. The women’s section uses different classification for pants. The pants are arranged according to the type of cut such as straight leg, wide leg, curvy, demi-boot cut, and the on-sale pants. The sizes for women vary from regular, petite and tall. The khaki pants for men in this website fall under casual pants which ae narrowed down to pleated, flat front and cargo. The pleated khaki pants has 24 items, the flat front khaki pants has 22 items while the cargo type has 4 items. The name of the items includes the brand, the fit and the front type. The brand names are Dockers, St. John’s Bay and Stafford among others. The fit of the types may be classic, loose and comfort-fit. By clicking on the picture, the next page shows the features of the khaki pants which are the individual fit waistband, â€Å"no wrinkle† finish, classic fit and soft microsanded fabric. The colors may range from black, British khaki, cafà ©, cement, heather grey, midnight navy, and moss. The suggested shirts, shoes and belts that may go with the khaki pants are visible on the side of the screen which also includes the price. The prices differ depending on the size so the khaki pants are priced from $29.9 to $46.00. Khaki pants fall under the category casual pants which are similar to Gap.com however the keyword khaki cannot be found on the name of the item. Instead, the word chino is commonly used for the khaki type of pants. The fit of the khaki pants for men can be traditional, comfort, tailored or relaxed. The waist style ranges from regular, comfort, drawstring and elastic. The front style can either be

Applying for Scholarship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Applying for Scholarship - Essay Example Moreover, I plan to buy multistoried family homes which can be used for rent out; it will prove to be an earning stream for me. In recent times, there has been growth in the entrepreneur businesses and I have expertise in identifying and implementing the new, highly innovative ideas. Additionally, I am looking forward for this scholarship as it will allow me to polish my competent abilities required in this field. At present time, I have insufficient funds available for carrying out my education and this scholarship will allow me to move ahead in my lucrative career. I believe I am eligible for this scholarship as my past academic records show that I am a hard working and intelligent student. Besides possessing extraordinary capabilities, all of my results are in distinction ranges which are proofs of my determination and passion for studies. I have even achieved top ranks in extracurricular activities as I keep good balance between my studies and additional activities. Thus, I deserve the real estate scholarship which will assist me in making my career in this field and will help me in moving ahead in the field

Case Analysis Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Case Analysis - Coursework Example The surplus khaki comes in different colors such as French navy, deep moss, chino black, chino steel and chino ginseng. The stripe khaki has two colors namely navy stripe and khaki stripe. The weekend straight fit khaki is available in stone and khaki. The price for these types of khaki pants is $44.50. The women’s section uses different classification for pants. The pants are arranged according to the type of cut such as straight leg, wide leg, curvy, demi-boot cut, and the on-sale pants. The sizes for women vary from regular, petite and tall. The khaki pants for men in this website fall under casual pants which ae narrowed down to pleated, flat front and cargo. The pleated khaki pants has 24 items, the flat front khaki pants has 22 items while the cargo type has 4 items. The name of the items includes the brand, the fit and the front type. The brand names are Dockers, St. John’s Bay and Stafford among others. The fit of the types may be classic, loose and comfort-fit. By clicking on the picture, the next page shows the features of the khaki pants which are the individual fit waistband, â€Å"no wrinkle† finish, classic fit and soft microsanded fabric. The colors may range from black, British khaki, cafà ©, cement, heather grey, midnight navy, and moss. The suggested shirts, shoes and belts that may go with the khaki pants are visible on the side of the screen which also includes the price. The prices differ depending on the size so the khaki pants are priced from $29.9 to $46.00. Khaki pants fall under the category casual pants which are similar to Gap.com however the keyword khaki cannot be found on the name of the item. Instead, the word chino is commonly used for the khaki type of pants. The fit of the khaki pants for men can be traditional, comfort, tailored or relaxed. The waist style ranges from regular, comfort, drawstring and elastic. The front style can either be

Training on Conflict resolution strategies in Team Dynamics Essay Example for Free

Training on Conflict resolution strategies in Team Dynamics Essay The necessity of this training   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Disagreements with how one sees life situations are just a few of the reasons that conflicts happen so ordinarily. Just as conflicts are also integral parts of daily existence so does negotiating through them (Amason, 1996; Amason, Thompson, Hochwarter, Harrison, 1995). Studies reveal that there is â€Å"no one size fits all† when it comes to navigating the disagreements and weather through storms where conflicts are concerned. However, there are principles that are observed when successful conflict management has taken place. Conflicts therefore must be confronted and understood at the individual level where a person experiences inner personal struggles at varying degrees. However, a short training tackles in detail a much larger picture as it attempts to provide a succinct look at conflict resolution strategies in the area of team dynamics by examining, describing and explaining various concepts as to the understanding of these significant concepts. Objectives for the training of communication To understand the nature of conflict as it arises in individual situations and in teams. Individual personal conflicts are inevitable occurrences that are usually taken for granted because of its â€Å"ordinariness.† Unless people undertakes a formal study on conflict management, he/she goes through life hitting and missing (at most) at ways of resolving issues and inner conflicts and in all probabilities, somehow manages to escape conflicts. The following important features in team dynamics are specifically indicated and described because these are crucial points in developing effective management of conflicts and developing efficient team dynamics. To reap the Benefits of working teams in relationship to conflict resolution strategies   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Working teams in relationship to conflict resolution strategies provide benefits including personal and team growth as team members acquire insights with relationships and how these relationships are utilized to better reach worthwhile goals. In addition, working teams have optional choices rather than solitary attempts at confronting conflicts, such as higher possibility arriving at the solutions of the problems, promoting cohesiveness among the team, and increasing the involvement or participation of members. To identify the different Types of Conflict   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Based on the study presented by Johnson (2005), few researches actually â€Å"describe how to identify conflict.† There are seven types of conflicts depending on â€Å"who is in conflict with whom† (Fisher et al, 1995; in Johnson, 2005). These are:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~an individual with inner conflicts totally unrelated to the team but whose best performance for the team is not achieved due to the personal problem, thus influencing the whole team   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~two distinct members are in direct conflict with each other   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~one against all members   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~all against one member   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~a lot of members against a lot of others as well   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~one whole team as against another team   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ~all of the team as against one person not a part of the team. To   explain ways of Managing, preparing or preventing Conflict   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Since conflict and disagreements are integral to the growth and performance of teams, it is therefore necessary that individual members and as a group, go through an education process to understand the nuances of conflict. They necessitate the learning to distinguish what healthy debates are, brainstorming and normal exchange of ideas which are important to team achieving corporate goals (Johnson, 2005). Studies by Tjosvold and colleagues (1999) show that when disagreements are brought into the open and talked about, conflicts are minimized and feelings of frustration, anger and doubts or suspicions are abated. Solutions to conflict   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Employing a conflict checklist can be an excellent ingredient as well in resolving and minimizing the incidence of conflict. III. Identify Types of Instructional methods you will use and why   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The best method that will be used is the seminar-workshop type which showcases the sort of brief lecture/discussion type followed by a question and answer portion. The workshop aspect will be the demonstration on activities that will enhance closeness of the relational and emotional aspect of the team’s association and promote self-understanding and self-awareness as well. Team communication and conflict are best understood when games and activities are tied up or incorporated as part of the challenge that the group will undertake. Discuss how you would tie the training into performance.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After the discussion of the lecture on conflict and strategies that are going to be developed by individuals and groups, it is expected that these are skills that are not learned overnight. However, there are expectations that the insights must be applied during the next few days or weeks. The kind of training that is illustrated here is expected to be clearly applicable and transferable wherever the participants maybe. Training for conflict resolution strategies in team dynamics will not be that easy but the determination must be there for the participants to see real results.             References Amason, A. C. (1996). Distinguishing the effects of functional and dysfunctional conflict on strategic decision making: Resolving a paradox for top management teams. Academy of Management Journal, 39(1), 123-148. Amason, A. C., Thompson, K. R., Hochwarter, W. A., Harrison, A. W. (1995). Conflict: An important dimension in successful management teams. Organizational Dynamics, 24(2), 20-35. Bens, I. (1997). Facilitating conflict. In M. Goldman (Ed.), Facilitating with ease! (pp. 83-108). Sarasota, FL: Participative Dynamics. Davison, Sue Canney. 2003. Creating Working Normas and Agreements. Accessed May 25, 2008 www.genderdiversity.cgiar.org/CreatingWorkingAgreementsDavison3.doc Fisher, K., Rayner, S., Belgard, W. (1995). Tips for teams: A ready reference for solving common team problems. NY, NY: McGraw-Hill, Inc. Jennsen, O., Van De Vliert, E., Veenstra, C. (1999). How task and person conflict shape the role of positive interdependence in management teams. Journal of Management, 25(2), 117-141. Johnson, Debbi-Wagner. 2005. Managing Work-Team Conflict: Assessment and Preventatve Strategies. Center for Collaborative Organizations, University of North Texas.   All rights reserved. Rayeski, E., Bryant, J. D. (1994). Team resolution process: A guideline for teams to manage conflict, performance, and discipline. In M. Beyerlein M. Bullock Tjosvold, D., Morshima, M., Belsheim, J. A. (1999). Complaint handling on the shop floor: Cooperative relationships and open-minded strategies. International Journal of Conflict Management, 10(1), 45-68.

Public Health Issue: Diabetes Mellitus

Public Health Issue: Diabetes Mellitus This assignment will address the public health issue of the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus (diabetes) and explore links with health inequalities both nationally and locally. It will discuss the frameworks available which give guidance for standards of care for diabetes patients and their influence on diabetes care. It will then critically discuss the issue of diabetes management in relation to patient education and the ability of patients to self-manage their chronic long-term condition, evaluating both the role of both healthcare professionals and individuals in achieving the best possible healthy outcomes. It will then discuss whether all people get the same level of diabetes care, in particular focusing on people who are not able to attend GP surgeries. Public health is defined as The science and art of promoting and protecting health and wellbeing, preventing ill health and prolonging life through the organised efforts of society (Faculty of Public Health 2008). Health equality is a key element of social justice and as such justifies the government and other health agencies to work in collaboration to develop health policies which improve the publics health regardless of social class, income, gender or ethnicity through promoting healthier lifestyles and protecting them from infectious diseases and environmental hazards (Griffiths Hunter 2007). Yet many health inequalities still exist in the UK, some of which will be discussed in this paper. There are predominantly two types of diabetes mellitus (diabetes); type 1 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce any insulin and type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin to function properly or when the body cells do not react to insulin. Type 2 diabetes is the most common and accounts for around ninety five per cent of people with diabetes. If left untreated both types of diabetes can lead to further complications which include heart disease, stroke, blindness, and kidney failure (Who 2011). Life expectancy is reduced by up to 10 years in those with this type of disease (Whittaker, 2004). In the majority of cases, type 2 diabetes is treated with lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, weight loss, and increasing physical exercise (Diabetes UK, 2007b). There are currently 2.6 million people in the UK with diabetes, and it is thought up to a further 1.1 million are undiagnosed. (Diabetes UK, 2010). Other evidence suggests that approx 50% of people are not aware they have the condition, living a normal life with only mild symptoms (reference). Men are twice more likely to have undiagnosed diabetes, than women, possible because on average they tend to visit their GP less (Nursingtimes.net 2009). Diabetes is one of the most widespread chronic diseases, which is potentially life threatening. It is currently thought to be the leading 4th disease causing death in most developed countries worldwide with estimated prevalence of 285 million people. Most experts agree that more than 4 million people in the UK will have Type 2 diabetes by 2025 with potentially 5.5 million living with this chronic condition by 2030 (Diabetes UK 2010, and International Diabetes Federation (IDF)2010). These statistics are startling; type 2 diabetes is one of the biggest challenges facing the UK today with people often treated entirely by the National Health Service (NHS) who provide care for all levels of diabetes. Diabetes control is considered poor in Europe with the UK being identified as having the worst control. The reasons for this are not clearly identified. However what is clear is the potential impact on people in terms of complications and shorter lives (Liebl et al 2002). People with diabetes who have complications cost the NHS 3.5 times more than people who have no evidence of complications (IDF 2006). The NHS currently spends about 10% of its total resources on diabetes, which equates to  £286 per second. This places a significant drain on resources which will potentially rise in line with the growing prevalence of diabetes and associated complications unless alternative ways to reduce the burden of the disease can be found Diabetes.co.uk). There are many reasons for the growing prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the UK, two of the main ones being the modernisation of industrialisation and urbanisation, which has changed peoples lifestyles and eating habits and caused and escalation in obesity (Helms et al 2003). Diabetes and obesity are closely linked; eighty percent of patients diagnosed with diabetes are obese at the time of diagnosis (Diabetes UK, 2006). Kazmi and Taylor (2009) agree and say type 2 diabetes can be linked to genetics, although increased levels are more likely to be attributable to obesity resulting from a decrease in physical exercise and westernised diets. A 2008 survey highlighted the UK as having the highest obesity levels in Europe, currently 24% of adults are considered obese which tends to increase with age. (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development 2010). However this figure should be treated with caution as England is one of the few countries who uses actual measurements of weight and height, other countries preferring to use self reported measures. The UK has an increasing elderly population which combined with rising levels of obesity is likely to further increase type 2 diabetes prevalence(DH2010). The links between socioeconomic deprivation and ill health are well established (Yamey 1999, Acheson 1998, Chaturvedi 2004). This can be observed within the UK, as type 2 diabetes does not affect all social groups equally, it is more prevalent in people over 40, minority ethnic groups, and poor people (The National Service Framework (NSF) for Diabetes). Several studies have established people with type 2 diabetes living in deprive areas suffer higher morbidity and mortality rates than those in more affluent areas. (Roper et al 2001, Wilde et al 2008, Bachhmann 2003). However globally the links between deprivation and type 2 diabetes are less clear as there is less information available on diabetes and deprivation related outcomes. In conflict with the UK, studies in Finland, Italy and Ireland found no significant variations in different socioeconomic groups (Gnavi et al 2004, OConner 2006). Reasons which may have negated the impact on socioeconomic deprivation may have been due to differences such in the population studied, health care delivery or available treatments. Links between deprivation and type 2 diabetes appear evident in the locality of Derbyshire. All but three local areas in Derbyshire have a diabetes and obesity levels which are significantly worse than the England average (Derbyshire County Primary Care Trust (PCT) 2008). In Derbyshire there are clear significant variations in levels of deprivation, High Peak has very little deprivation, and yet Bolsover is in the 20 per cent most deprived areas in England, with thirty two per cent of people living in poverty and mortality and morbidity levels significantly worse than the England average (Bolsover District Financial Inclusion Strategy 2009). These worrying levels have triggered the Department of Health to declare Bolsover a Spearhead area for improvement (DH 2009, Derbyshire PCT 2008). Some steps have been taken in Bolsover to reduce morbidity and mortality rates by introducing healthy initiatives aimed at improving peoples life styles (Bolsover 2010). However, although morbidity and mortality rates have reduced over the last ten years they remain significantly higher than the England average (Bolsover District Financial Inclusion Strategy 2009). Derbyshire has a growing elderly population (Derbyshire PCT 2008). This together with proven links of levels of obesity rising with age would suggest a future increase in levels of diabetes. Diabetes is a national priority and Derbyshire has a higher than England average prevalence, but the local NHS strategy (2008) does not specify diabetes as a key priority. This may be a factor why Derbyshire is failing to meet its targets to reducing morbidity and mortality by ten per cent by 2010 in the poorest areas of Derbyshire (DH 2009). Frameworks and policies exist to give guidance on standards of care, improve the quality of life and life expectancy of people with diabetes and lessen the financial burden on health services. (Reference x2). In response to European influence the NHS plan (2000) set out guidance for modernising services, raising standards and moving towards patient centred care. Subsequently the NSF for Diabetes (2001) was published which outlines twelve standards of care aimed at delivering improved services and reducing inequalities over a ten year period with the ultimate vision of people suffering with diabetes receiving a world class service in the UK by 2013. This framework was followed by the NSF for Diabetes: Delivery Strategy (2003) which gives guidance on how the NSF for diabetes could be achieved. Frameworks are a useful outline for action and set out clear goals and targets, but do not address the social, economical and environmental causes of ill health or take account of available financial and staffing resources (Reference from book). The NSF for Diabetes (2001) appears to support this statement; other than retinal screening, no funding was initially made available to implement the twelve standards (Cavan 2005). The availability of this funding will have been significant in the achievement of one hundred per cent of people with diabetes now being offered this service (English National Screening Programme for Diabetic Retinopathy, 2009). It wasnt until 2004 the Quality Outcome Framework offered financial rewards to meet other targets within the NSF, for instance maintaining practiced based registers of people with diabetes, to enable primary care providers to provide proactive care (NHS 2004). Ten years on this framework is still credible and sets the gold standard of care for patients with diabetes in the UK (NICE 2000) which would seem to be an outstanding achievement. There have been significant improvements in caring for people with diabetes since it was published. However, it could be criticised that some standards are not enforceable until 2013 (NSF 2001). Numerous publications have followed the NSF for Diabetes (2001) in an attempt to give guidance for health professionals to follow (NICE 2004, NICE 2008, NICE 2009, RCN, NMC). These frameworks are not intended to work in isolation but collaborate with each other at different levels, whilst attempting to produce a quality health service (Reference). . The main reasons for the onset of diabetes and risk of further complications is due to suboptimal health relative behaviours which include little physical activity, high calorie intake and inadequacy to maintain good glucose control and it is said individuals with diabetes play a central role in determining their own health status (Clarke 2008 Reference 1). Whittaker (2004) concurs and says that much of the burden relating to care lies with individuals themselves. Patient education is seen as fundamental in the treatment of diabetes to ensure the best possible healthy outcomes for individuals (Alexander et al, 2006, Brooker Nicol 2003, Walsh, 2002). Standard 3 of the NSF for Diabetes (2001) clearly demonstrates a move away from medical care to encourage individuals to take responsibility for their own health but also places the onus on health care professionals to educate, support and empower people to enable them to effectively care for themselves. The recent Public Health Whitepap er (2010) endorses future healthcare services should focus on wellness rather than treating disease and supports empowering people to put some effort into staying well. It acknowledges healthcare services only contribute to one third of improvement made to life expectancy stating that a change in lifestyle and removing health inequalities contribute to the remaining two thirds. Giving people the skills, knowledge and tools to take control of their own health logical as people with diabetes spend an average of 3 hours per year with their healthcare professional and around 8700 hours managing themselves (Ref N3. For example there is much evidence concluding that maintaining blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible slows down the progression of long term complications and if patients can be empowered to take control of their diabetes, not only will it increase the individuals quality of life but also reduce the financial burden on the NHS. (Whittaker, 2004). (Ref: 4.1, 4.2). The Diabetes Year of Care programme (2008) has been developed to help healthcare professionals move away from a paternal approach to care planning to a more personalised approach for people with chronic long term conditions. This approach involves both healthcare professionals and patients working together to prioritise individual needs. Helmore (2009) agrees that a personalised approach to care planning which should be holistic and include the persons social circumstances, will empower patients to take a central role in their own healthcare and suggests that nurses and patients should work together to set goals the patient can work towards which would include self care and the services they will use. For example a depressed patient will not want to venture outside to exercise and comfort eating may cause them to gain weight. The priority in this case would be to deal with the patients depression. The nurse could then liaise with other community services and social care to resolve no n medical issues which would enable the patient to manage their weight and increase activities (Helmore 2009). Rollings (2010) believes nurses should take a lead role on behalf of the GP consortia as they are the ones best placed to identify the care requirements of patients with diabetes, they have experience in patient pathways and are able to co-ordinate local and professional services. The Department of Health (2010) has highlighted care planning as an area for improvement to ensure one hundred per cent of diabetic patients have individual care plans (DH 2010). Currently it is thought only sixty per of people with long-term conditions in England have an individual care plan (www.gp-patient.co.uk). Diabetes self-management education programmes (DSME) have been developed to educate and empower patients to take control of their own conditions by improving their knowledge and skills to enable them to make informed choices, self-manage and reduce any risk of complications. DSME also aims to help people to cope with physical and mental of living with diabetes (Ref 21 p 114. These programmes which should be age appropriate can be delivered to individuals or groups. (6 and 40 p 119 and 120). . (reference 7 p119). Programmes available include the Expert Patent Programme (EPP), its derivative X-PERT and Diabetes Education and Self-Management for ongoing and newly diagnosed (DESMOND) which are available in all PCTs in the country. These programmes offer the necessary information and skills to people to enable them to manage their own diabetes care and they offer the opportunity for people with diabetes to share problems and solutions on concerns they may have with on everyday living (N9) . They encourage people to find their own solutions to issues such as diet, weight management and blood glucose control, enlisting the help of diabetes professionals if needed (N9). The literature suggests this will result in well educated, motivated and empowered patients and consistently supports patient education as crucial to effective diabetes care (use many refs). Much research has taken place on the effectiveness of DSME. Some of which suggests that patients who have not participated in DSME are four times more likely to encounter major diabetes complications compared to patients who have been involved in DSME (Reference).Other evidence suggests that it is not possible to establish whether patient education is effective at promoting self-management in the long term to reduce the effects of diabetes or the onset of complications and improve the patients quality of life (reference). From studies that have taken place, it is evident that although knowledge and skills are necessary they are not sufficient on their own to ensure good diabetes control. People require ongoing support to sustain the enable them to sustain self-management and therefore the longer period of time the course run the more likelihood people will remain empowered (Ref) The majority of people in the UK are offered some form diabetes education, the bulk of which is offered at the time of diagnosis. Also the style, length, content and structure of DSME vary. Very few education programmes have been evaluated; therefore it is not conclusive which intervention strategy is the most effective for improving the control of diabetes. The America Diabetes Association suggest that as people are individuals and different methods of education suit different people, there is no one best programme, but generally programmes which incorporate both psychosocial and behaviour strategies appear to have the best outcomes. However the Healthcare commission (2006) found people in England are not being offered adequate information about their condition to facilitate effective self-management. They reported just eleven per cent of respondents had attended an educational course on how to live with diabetes and disturbingly seventeen per cent of respondents did not even know whether they had type 1 or type 2 diabetes (Reference 2 p 119). The success of DSME is dependent many variants which include the patients individual characteristics, the context of their social environment, the extent of the disease, and the patients interface with the care and education provided. Overall there is a great deal of evidence to suggest DSME is the cornerstone in effective diabetes care (NSF 2001). It is recommended that DSME is delivered by a multi-disciplinary team together with a comprehensive care plan (reference 1). Experts agree that effective management of diabetes mellitus increases life expectancy and reduces the risk of complications (NICE Guidenance for the use of patient education models of diabetes Referece 1 p 119 Changing the health related behaviours of people with diabetes has been proved to be successful in reducing or even eradicating the risk of complications (reference). Many different health promotion models of exist which can help a patient to digest health promotion advise and want to change their health related behaviours (Kawachi 2002). Health promotion models are useful tools to assist with this process. The Stages of Change health promotion is a frequently used model for weight management as it identifies 6 stages of readiness to change which helps health professionals identify the intervention actions to recommend and support. Standard 3 has also ensured people with diabetes receive regular care (Hicks 2010), although Hillson (2009) would argue the quality of which is still open to debate. Every person with diabetes should receive the highest standards of individualised care, no matter who delivers it or where or when it is delivered. Access to specialist services should be available when required (Hillson 2009). Diabetes patients receive different standards of care depending on whether or not they can attend their doctors surgery (Knights and Platt 2005). Diabetes patients who are unable to attend the surgery are being overlooked and missed out on screening and reviews of their diabetes, consequently receiving a lower standard of care despite the NSF for Diabetes stating inequalities in provision of services should be addressed to ensure a high standard of care which meets individual patient needs.(Gadsky 1994 ,Hall 2005, Harris 2005,). Until recently the district nursing team were some of the few professionals who provided care in the home for diabetes patients and only usually had input with diabetes patients when treatment was required for a complication (Wrobel 2001). District nurses have historically been seen as generalists and able to provide care and treatment for patients with a wide range of conditions and therefore do not necessarily have specialist disease knowledge (Hale 2004). Sargant (2002) agree with this and suggests the quality and advise district nurses give to diabetic patients is questionable as they dont have the in-depth level of knowledge in relation to diabetes. In recognition of the inconsistency of care being provided to patients with chronic illnesses in their own homes, the role of Community Matron was introduced in 2004 to ensure patients with diabetes receive the first class service advocated by the Department of Health (1999) and the NHS PLAN (2000) by managing their all encompassing care requirements and help patients effectively manage their long term conditions which in theory should result in reduce hospital admissions. (NHS Improvement Plan 2004). However a study conducted by Gravelle et al (2006) would suggest the Community Matron role has not been effective in reducing hospital admissions. Forbes et al (2004) concurs that district nurses, given the time and with the right training could extend their roles and satisfactory undertake appropriate care for housebound people with diabetes. However Brookes (2002) suggests training and resources are big issues and Harris (2005) says that district nurses may not be fulfilling their Professional Code of Conduct by failing to care sufficiently for this group of patients (Nursing and Midwifery Council 2008). The growing prevalence of diabetes and the drain on NHS resources continues to be a concern for the UK, in terms of life quality and life expectancy of patients. Many health inequalities exist for people with diabetes; there are proven links with obesity and deprivation; and diabetes care provided is not equal for all patients. Patients who are able to attend their GP surgery receive better care than those who are housebound, although this inequality is being addressed and care is improving. The NSF for Diabetes is a useful framework for healthcare professionals to follow when providing care for people with diabetes. The quality of diabetes care has improved since this framework has been introduced. However, the implementation of some recommendations has been slow and will not be complete until 2013. Patient education is paramount to successful diabetes control and there appears no doubt that the key to successfully slowing the onset of diabetes and the recognised associated complica tions is to engage patients in DSME.