The Cause of Violence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Cause of Violence - Essay Example Their reasoning has been influenced to the extent that they will carry out the unthinkable. Extensive researches and surveys may not always be consistent, but a basic factor contributing to violence has been evident for a long time - family issues. Simply being an eyewitness to family violence has a great effect upon a youngster. Derek and Danny Vinyard (American History X) witnessed the murder of their father by a black man. Nevertheless, although they may not have realized, they were being conditioned to believe that 'what happened to their father was an act of racism by the black man'. Moreover, Derek had already been influenced by his father's cynical views on African American culture. When they became grown-up, Derek and Danny lead a life of a "vengeance-seeking white supremacist" (Synopsis for American History X, www.imdb.com). Parents' own behavior has an enormous consequence on a young child's mind. Hally's (Master Harold and the Boys) father is a drunkard and a tyrant. He grew up having resentment for his father. On one incident, Hally unleashed "years of anger and pain on his two black friends; creating possibly-permanent rifts in his relationship with them" (Master Harold and the Boys, www.en.wikipedia.org). Careful students of the appalling increase of violence in our dangerous times list many contributing factors: the media emphasis on violent events, crime and corruption; the way world leaders shamelessly resort to violence to stay in power; the sense of utter frustration with injustices that never seem to be resolved, leading some to feel that bullets will accomplish what ballots cannot; the callous way inwhich millions of the unborn are violently wrenched from existence by abortion; the way religious leaders uphold "just" wars and yet do not uphold moral principles in the face of lowering standards. The world soon gets desensitized, inured to violence. And there are other reasons. The permissiveness of supposed progressive thinking in our time has altered customs and moral standards, removing the restraints that once served to check attitudes and actions that can lead to violence. The sad effect is seen especially in the young. It is not an exaggeration, therefore, to say that what a person reads or sees has an effect on his attitudes. Sexual abuses and perversions also breed violence by destroying all sense of decency. No matter what is the cause of violence is, the question remains: Does this mean that mankind is doomed to an endless cycle of vicious and escalating violence Happily, our knowing that what now exists is a temporary situation, soon to end, and that there is a way out, can give us strength to endure. Many of Jehovah's Witnesses testify to this. You, too, can 'escape all these things that are destined to occur.' About these same woes for this time of the end, Jesus said: "As these things start to occur, raise yourselves erect and lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near." So, take courage! Jesus will shortly deliver mankind from all oppression and violence.-Luke 21:28,36; Psalm 72:1, 2, 12,14. Works Cited Page Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. "Why So Many Violent Crimes Now" Awake! 08 July 2003: 5 - 9. The Internet Movie Database. 28 May 2008. IMDb.com, Inc. 28 October 2008 [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120586/synopsis]. Wikipedia the Free

Look to the Future or to the Past Essay Example for Free

Look to the Future or to the Past Essay Today there are many obstacles to success, and the decisions you make, along with a little bit of luck will greatly influence whether you succeed or not and the magnitude of this success. Now the things we have done on the past will influence what people think about us, influence the actions that people have on us, and is significant in the situations you will be put in. However, when we are faced with making a decision nowadays, we must look at the big picture: What will happen to me because of this decision tomorrow? Next month? Next year? How about in 5 or 10 years? How will my friends and family be affected? And are the consequences going to be good or bad? This big picture is why I believe that people must look to the future when making decisions because it holds more weight in making a decision. Looking to the future is more likely to help you make a good decision because it makes you look at what will happen as a result of a decision with a clear head. If you look to the past, your judgment might be clouded with what did happen without understanding that it simply is what DID happen, and it probably won’t happen again, but the decision you make will effect what will happen. The big picture is always important here because every small decision that a person makes can have a huge effect on what the future will be like. For example, lottery winners have a tough time deciphering this and looking at the big picture. Most lottery winners just take the cold hard cash instead of getting equal payments every year for the rest of their lives, these winners not looking to the future, just go and squander away all of their money as if they have an unlimited amount when they essentially just have a minor boost, like a shot of nitrous or steroids. Just like the lottery winners if they can’t spend the money well, which most of them don’t, they lose it all and fast, backed up by the fact that 70% of lottery winners spend up all of their money in years. This is simply because they didn’t look at the big picture and that is a problem today, people are always looking for a quick fix, instead of looking at the big picture. Clearly, having the ability to make big decisions is just as rare in some cases as winning the lottery, you usually only get one chance and by looking at the big picture, to the future, it can help you make the best decision. In conclusion, I think it is best if we look towards the future. This is because as people we must look at the big picture when making a decision so e can make the best decision possible to help shape our lives the right way, and looking to the future will help us on this task. As they say if we don’t learn from history it will repeat itself, so we must learn from history and learn to apply it to our future by always looking ahead. That is a quality that us humans have is to look ahead, and in this world, looking ahead is our best shot at success because making a decision won’t influence your past, which cannot be changed, however, it will affect your future.

Lessons of Major Barbara, Good Woman of Setzuan, and Madwoman of Chaillot :: Comparison Compare Contrast Essays

Lessons  of Major Barbara,  Good Woman of Setzuan, and  Madwoman of Chaillot   Philosophers all over the world have pondered over the idea of evil.   This brings up another extremely essential question, â€Å"how should we live?†Ã‚   Because we know that evil is existent in our world, does that mean we must live with the knowledge, accept it and conform to society’s ideal that only the cunning survive?   Or do we keep our original identity of purity and goodness at heart in our everyday lives.   The three pieces of literature that we read all deal with this dilemma in different ways.   And like in all good stories, good prevails over evil.   Ã‚  Ã‚   The first play that we will discuss was my favorite.   It is entitled The Good Woman of Setzuan written by the German author Brecht.   This story is about a woman that was too kind for her own good.   Her name is Shen Te.   In the beginning of the story she is a prostitute but at the end she becomes a successful tobacco shop owner, fiancà © and mother-to-be.   Shen Te also creates another character that displays her deceitful and greedy side, or the side of her that could survive in her society, Shui Ta.   He is a brash and brutal young man who drives spongers away.1 Yang Sun is an unemployed airman that Shen Te saves from committing suicide.   He is a big creep that later admits that he has no intention of marrying her and is after Shen Te’s money.   Ã‚  Ã‚   The story starts off when three gods come to earth in search of a good human being.   Unless they discover at least one, the world would cease to exist.   After traveling from town to town they arrive in Setzuan.   No one in the town would let them stay the night except Shen Te, who was then the town prostitute.   The gods realize that they have found their one good human and repay her kindness and hospitality with a large sum of money.   After the gods depart, the townspeople all flock to Shen Te in hopes of receiving some of her money.   This is when she is forced to disguise herself as Shui Ta, her crude male cousin.   She then falls in love with Yang Sun who she saves from suicide.   After they plan to get married, Yang admits to Shui Ta that he is after Shen Te’s money and does not plan to marry. Lessons of Major Barbara, Good Woman of Setzuan, and Madwoman of Chaillot :: Comparison Compare Contrast Essays Lessons  of Major Barbara,  Good Woman of Setzuan, and  Madwoman of Chaillot   Philosophers all over the world have pondered over the idea of evil.   This brings up another extremely essential question, â€Å"how should we live?†Ã‚   Because we know that evil is existent in our world, does that mean we must live with the knowledge, accept it and conform to society’s ideal that only the cunning survive?   Or do we keep our original identity of purity and goodness at heart in our everyday lives.   The three pieces of literature that we read all deal with this dilemma in different ways.   And like in all good stories, good prevails over evil.   Ã‚  Ã‚   The first play that we will discuss was my favorite.   It is entitled The Good Woman of Setzuan written by the German author Brecht.   This story is about a woman that was too kind for her own good.   Her name is Shen Te.   In the beginning of the story she is a prostitute but at the end she becomes a successful tobacco shop owner, fiancà © and mother-to-be.   Shen Te also creates another character that displays her deceitful and greedy side, or the side of her that could survive in her society, Shui Ta.   He is a brash and brutal young man who drives spongers away.1 Yang Sun is an unemployed airman that Shen Te saves from committing suicide.   He is a big creep that later admits that he has no intention of marrying her and is after Shen Te’s money.   Ã‚  Ã‚   The story starts off when three gods come to earth in search of a good human being.   Unless they discover at least one, the world would cease to exist.   After traveling from town to town they arrive in Setzuan.   No one in the town would let them stay the night except Shen Te, who was then the town prostitute.   The gods realize that they have found their one good human and repay her kindness and hospitality with a large sum of money.   After the gods depart, the townspeople all flock to Shen Te in hopes of receiving some of her money.   This is when she is forced to disguise herself as Shui Ta, her crude male cousin.   She then falls in love with Yang Sun who she saves from suicide.   After they plan to get married, Yang admits to Shui Ta that he is after Shen Te’s money and does not plan to marry.

Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut :: Harrison Bergeron Essays

1. Define 'satire' and provide one example of personal or social satire that yoou have encountered. You may use any source for your example:TV, media, news editorials, movies, comedy, etc. Satire can be defined as any work in which a human vice or folly is attacked with irony or sarcasm. An example of satire can be found in the song "When the President Talks to God" by Bright Eyes. In this song, the lyrics lay out hypothetical conversations between the President and God, which mocks current President George W. Bush and his use of strong religious influence while in office. 2. In a well-developed p-graph, I.D. and explain at least one symbol vonnegut presents in the story. Explain how he uses the symbol and what the symbol represents some other entity in the story. In the story, Harrison Bergeron represents many symbols. A major symbolic moment occurs when Harrison breaks away from his chains. This represents Harrison's freedom. 3. In the story, what is the purpose of 'handicaps' and how do they keep people equal? Handicaps can be defined as a hinderance that gives a disadvantage. In the story Harrison Bergeron, handicaps are given to anyone considered to be pretty, smart, and out of the ordinary. Masks are worn so beauty is hidden, an ear piece prevents intelligent thought, and the extraordinary are chained up. 4. Explain the role Diana Moon Glampers plays in the story and describe the authority she possesses over the people. Diana Moon Glampers plays the Handicapper General. Basically, she is large and in charge. Diana has the power of to control the life and death of everyone in the story, and this is shown. 5. Explain why Hazel Bergeron is not plagued with frequent brain blasts like her husband. Hazel Bergeron does not need a handicap to prevent her from having intelligent thoughts like her husband simply because she is not as smart as he is. 6. In a p-graph, write a brief character sketch of Harrison Bergeron. Include not only his physical appearance, but the emotional characteristic which leads him to behave so bizarrely. Putting Harrison Bergeron's seven-foot stature asside, he appears to be what we would call normal today. 7. This story has a well-developed theme which Vonnegut parodies against certain American beliefs. In a paragraph or two, explain what you believe the theme of this story is.

Safety in the Manufacturing Industry

Safety is the state of being free from harm or danger of any kind. Safety is usually achieved through careful planning and the removal of all vulnerable sources of danger or any other that are prone to arise. The first step in the management of any environment to ensure that safety is achieved involves the identification of the potential sources of danger. An array of all the panic triggers is usually made and each is tackled single-handedly. Failure to identify all the potential sources of danger may cause a lot of unforeseen harm (Stellman, 1998). In any workplace, there lie very many potential causes of harm and injury. The repercussions are likely to be very serious given that many places of work usually have hordes of people going about their business and most of the times many are oblivious of any form of lurking danger. In case of any accident that may occur, the number of casualties in many places of work is likely to be very high. The effects of such accidents can however mitigated by the careful consideration of all factors by the planners and the devising of ways to deal with the accidents prior to their occurrence. Many of the hazards that may occur in most working places and cause loss of lives and damage of property includes fire, floods, chemical explosions, release of poisonous gases and the risk of being shred by machines and being cut by very sharp objects (Moi, 1993). Manufacturing Industries: Manufacturing industries are the type of industries that are involved with the production of goods for the end user markets. Such industries produce these goods in large masses; mass production, and the raw materials are brought to these industries in bulk. A lot of machines and are used in various processes within these industries and a lot of manpower is also incorporated in order to increase the production by these industries. All the processes, right from the offloading of the raw materials to the packing of the finished products involve a lot of manpower and machines and many accidents that jeopardize the workers’ safety are likely to happen in any of these stages. Different manufacturing industries usually have different strategies of ensuring their employees’ safety and reducing the occurrence of accidents. Safety in the manufacturing industries: It is mandatory for all industries to ensure that their employees are safe and are free from any kind of harm in the course of duty at these industries. There exists a set of laws that govern how al industries ensure the safety of their employees while at work in the industries. The employees are also obligated to follow the policies, procedures and the directives that are set out in these laws, to the letter. They are also expected to be on protective gear provided by the industry at all times. They are expected to adhere to all the safety rules that are laid out by their employers. The employers are on the other hand expected to give directives to their employees that would be implemented in case of any tragedy and even put signs at strategic places within these industries. The signs must be brief and clear to the employees in order to avoid any confusion whenever there is an accident of any kind (Poltev, 1986). The Passing of the Safety Act: It is estimated that about six thousand workers in the USA die every year due to workplace injuries, another fifty thousand workers die because of exposure to workplace hazards and millions of others die because of non-fatal injuries sustained at their workplaces. This was estimated to be depriving American businesses about one hundred and twenty five billion dollars per year. The government is in all ways trying to curb the occurrence of such by ensuring the safety of every employee at his or her place of work. Safety at the workplace goes a long way to see the cultivation of a good and better job culture at the place of work. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), was passed by the congress in 1970. This act was passed in order to ensure that each and every worker in the nation of USA was working under conditions that are safe physically and even health wise. Some states, however, have enacted their own laws to protect the workers from any physical or health risks at their places of work though they also do ensure that these laws are as effective as those set in the federal law. The OSHA covers all employees except those who are self-employed and public employees in the state and local government. Responsibilities of the manufacturing industries (employer): According to the OSHA website – www. osha. gov, the Occupational Safety and Health Act stipulates that: The manufacturing industry should provide its employees with well-maintained tools and equipment. This serves to ensure that the probability of the occurrence of an accident due to the ineffectiveness of the equipment. The industry officials should ensure that faulty equipment is replaced or repaired immediately to avoid any casualties of any kind resulting from any accident. The industry should also offer the employees with appropriate protective equipment and clothing in order to protect these workers from bodily harm from the various things that they handle within a day. This facilitates the reduction of the occurrence of accidents and the effects of any hazardous substances that the employee may come in contact with. The manufacturing industries must also take their employees for medical examinations prior to and after any activity that may be involving any hazardous substances (Rabinowitz, 2002). In case of any signs of infection, the treatment and medication should be administered on the patient immediately in order to lower the chances of the employee becoming severely affected. The employees should also be granted access to their medical and exposure records. Such records should always be at their disposal so that they can be always updated about their health status and take any personal measures necessary. The industries must provide training to their employees prior to handling any equipment that may be hazardous. The training should be done as per the standards set by the OSHA. This serves to ensure that the employees are well acquainted with the type of equipment that they use for any particular task that the employer bestows upon them. This kind of training also ensures that there is a reduction in the number of accidents that occur in these industries. The standardized training also ensures that there is uniformity in the way accidents are dealt with and this avoids confusion in case of such accidents occurring abruptly. Accidents should be reported to OSHA within the first eight hours of their occurrence. Those accidents that cause lots of casualties should also be reported within this period. Accidents that leave more than three people hospitalized should also be reported to OSHA within this same period. This facilitates the investigation and evaluation into the cause of the accident and the necessary measures are taken in order to reduce such accidents in future and thus increase safety in the workplace. The employer is also obligated with the duty of posting the OSHA poster (OSHA 3165), which informs the employees of their rights and responsibilities. No discrimination is allowed upon an employee who goes forward to address some grievances to OSHA regarding the workplace. The industries are also obligated to keep records of work-related accidents, injuries, illnesses and their causes. They should also post OSHA citations and abatement verification notices to a worksite. They should also abate cited violations within the set prescribed period. The Responsibilities of the Employee: The employee should review the employer provided OSHA standards, regulations and requirements in order to be well conversant with them and follow them accordingly and report any flaws in order to avoid accidents and other mishaps. The employee should also request for information from the employer regarding emergency procedures so as to avoid confusion at the time of tragedy. The employee should observe each and every directive accordingly (Harms-Ringdahl, 2001). The employee should try and grasp the safety and health training provided by the employer as per OSHA standards. Such training should be administered in cases where some toxic substances are involved. All other procedures set for emergencies should also be carefully studied. If carefully observed and followed to the letter, these rules and regulations can spare many lives and save lots of others in the manufacturing industries (Taylor and Hegney, 2004).

Definition and Examples of Performative Verbs

Definition and Examples of Performative Verbs In English grammar  and speech-act theory, a performative verb is a  verb  that explicitly conveys the kind of speech act being performed- such as  promise, invite, apologize, predict, vow, request, warn, insist,  and  forbid. Also known as speech-act verb or  performative utterance.   The concept of performative verbs  was introduced by Oxford philosopher J. L. Austin in  How to Do Things With Words  (1962) and further developed by American philosopher J.R. Searle, among others. Austin estimated that a good dictionary contains upwards of 10,000 performative or speech-act verbs. Examples and Observations Performative verbs name actions that are performed, wholly or partly, by saying something (state, promise); non-performative verbs name other types of actions, types of action which are independent of speech (walk, sleep).-Kirsten Malmkjaer, Speech-Act Theory. The  Linguistics Encyclopedia, 2nd ed. Routledge, 2004As your lawyer, your brother, and your friend, I highly recommend that you get a better lawyer.-David Patrick Kelly as Jerry Horne in Twin Peaks, 1990The faculty at Ohios Bowling Green State University vetoed a professors planned course on political correctness. Kathleen Dixon, director of womens studies at the university, explained: We forbid any course that says we restrict free speech.-George Will, Newsweek. December  25, 2000I declare, he said, with the mamma I got its a wonder I turned out to be such a nice boy!-Flannery OConnor, Greenleaf. The Kenyon Review, 1957As your president, I would demand a science-fiction library, featuring an ABC of the genre. Asimov, Best er, Clarke.-Martin Prince in Lisas Substitute. The Simpsons, 1991 ApologizingBy saying we apologize we perform an expressive act simultaneously with the naming of that expressive act. It is for this reason that apologize is called a performative verb, defined as a verb denoting linguistic action that can both describe a speech act and express it. This explains why we can say that we are sorry, but not that we are sorry on someone elses behalf because be sorry only expresses, but does not describe the act of making an apology.-R. Dirven and M. Verspoor, Cognitive Exploration of Language and Linguistics. John Benjamins, 2004Hedged PerformativesGenerally, the performative verb...is in the simple present active and the subject is I, but the verb may be in the simple present passive and the subject need not be I: Smoking is forbidden; The committee thanks you for your services. A test for whether a verb is being used performatively is the possible insertion of hereby: I hereby apologize; The committee hereby thanks you. In hedged performatives, the verb is present but the speech act is performed indirectly: In saying I must apologize for my behavior, the speaker is expressing an obligation to make an apology, but implies that the acknowledgment of that obligation is the same as an apology. In contrast, I apologized is a report, and Must I apologize? is a request for advice.-S. Greenbaum, The Oxford Companion to the English Language. Oxford University Press,  1992

Discipline as an integral part of effective police supervision

Discipline as an integral part of effective police supervision Introduction The police department, as faction of the judiciary and law enforcer, cannot be allowed to be tainted with traces of indiscipline. It is a ridicule and an outright insult to the judicial system in its totality. The duty to ensure that unbecoming behavior and unacceptable professional conduct does not gain ground in the police force is bestowed on the police supervisor.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Discipline as an integral part of effective police supervision specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For the effective role of supervisor to be fully realized, the individual supervisor cannot overlook the importance of a disciplined force. Without discipline, the supervisor will have failed as an individual and failed the whole institution as well. This essay looks into the maintenance of discipline among the police as an integral part of effective police supervision. Fostering discipline in the police force Supe rvisors as disciplinarians The ability to maintain discipline among the subordinates is one way of measuring the suitability of a supervisor for the role. The sergeant is the most important party in the police force, and his position the most challenging one. â€Å"It is the sergeant†¦who plays the pivotal role and, in large measure determines whether the police department will face unfair labor practice charges, costly arbitrations, lengthy litigation, and more union activism,† (More Miller 2007, P.314). The police are the point of connection between law enforcers and the society. They have been given discretion to deal with matters concerning the public such as determining when to arrest a suspect or when to shoot. â€Å"The powers that police hold and exercise†¦if improperly used, reduce public confidence in police, decrease respect for the law, and increase fear amongst a community, thus destabilizing it,† (Office of Police Integrity 2007, P. 18). When a supervisor sleeps on his work as the disciplinarian organ of the institution the result is; â€Å"lower quality of service provided by a given department and undermine the integrity of the entire profession,† (More Miller 2007, P. 316). Further, â€Å"poor supervision and the lack of effective disciplinary mechanisms allow ‘loose cannons’ who are in positions of power to abuse that power,† (More Miller 2007, P. 317). Being the one who has the most contact with the subordinates, he can use that advantageous position to create a police force whose professional standards are not tainted with unethical issues. The discipline could be constructive or punitive. Constructive refers to disciplinary measures geared to create internal discipline of an officer while punitive comes way after the employee has been found to have committed an indiscretion and is intended to make him not repeat the act, and should only be used when all other alternatives are depleted.A dvertising Looking for essay on political sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Good disciplinary measures Sergeants, when they notice indiscipline, should not wait until the situation gets out of hand. They should take corrective measures with immediate effect. â€Å"Failure to act promptly and decisively tends to perpetuate the problem and sets the stage for more debilitating interpersonal conflict,† (More Miller 2007, P. 301). It makes other subordinates believe that the disciplinary measure laid down by the organization are merely for formalism purposes and are not really applicable. Further, they show that the supervisor is in control and has the authority over the subordinates yielding respect from them. The disciplining should also be firm and fair and must be seen to be applied indiscriminately and equitably. â€Å"A great sergeant establishes a sense of equity. This doe’s not mean people are always treated equally, just always fairly,† (Werder, 1996). They should not be in violation of any written law or accepted rules of procedure and the subordinate must be able to understand his reasons of being disciplined. The root of the indiscipline and motive of performing the act must be established through enough evidence and the errant subordinate must be given a chance to be heard and explain his case. Further, other less serious disciplinarian measures such as formal reprimands or arbitration should be tried out before the supervisor can jump to the more serious ones such as demotion or discharge. The measure adopted should be reasonable and not excessive taking into consideration the circumstances of the particular case. The disciplinary measure should be less bureaucratic and filled with many formalities. A research currently conducted showed that â€Å"amongst the significant defects with the current discipline system, are the numerous, inconsistent, excessive ly formal and slow review and appeal processes available,† (Office of Police Integrity 2007, P. 14) The employees should be properly informed of the unacceptable form of behavior to avoid a situation where the employee was unaware of the existence of the offence in the first place. â€Å"Once, the subordinate knows the rules he knows what to expect in case of failure to follow the disciplinary code,† (Shimansky 2006).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Discipline as an integral part of effective police supervision specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The discipline measures adopted must have just two objectives i.e., to act as a future deterrence both to the deviant subordinate and to the others or to change the specific individual and ensure he is reformed. Any other objective of the supervisor such as to muster control of the subordinate or to settle some old scores, will be inappropriate and an abuse of pow er. The supervisor must at all time guard himself against making an emotional decision on discipline matters. They must remain in total control of the situation without having to be accommodative of subordinate’s improper behavior. As much as supervisors are mandated to maintain discipline, they should not take to themselves the habit of nosing around the private business of the subordinates. All their actions should be confined to circumstances within the formal business of the organization. What the subordinate does outside the employment circle should be a no go zone for the supervisor. The most effective manner of maintaining discipline is by outlining some procedures and principles, uniform to the whole organization, that every individual has to adhere to. The rules must also prescribe the right punitive measures to be undertaken in case of the subordinates defying such rules. This makes the system a lot more formal and will yield respect from subjects. It will also ensu re uniformity and avoid situations where the subordinate feels unfairly handled. They must, accordingly be communicated to all the subjects in a manner to obtain acceptance from them. Rules which are not generally accepted by the subjects often result into a situation of chaos and unresolved conflicts. Positive discipline These are measures taken by the supervisor long before any indiscipline has been detected. they are more of preventive measures as opposed to curative. They are aimed at securing the officers loyalty to the principles and procedures and get them to adhere to such policies willingly, without being sanctioned. The subordinates are driven by â€Å"the human tendency to do what needs to be done, to do what is right in a given situation, and to voluntarily comply with the reasonable standards of performance and conduct that apply to all members of the workforce,† (More Miller 2007,P. 291).Advertising Looking for essay on political sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The supervisor has the duty of ensuring that create this kind of dedication from the subordinates. They develop self-discipline where the subordinate decide to give their all to the better performance of the whole institution for which they work for. Here, the supervisor simply acts as role model to be emulated. They take a personal decision to motivate the subordinates through recognition and rewards. They create an environmental that is necessary for the growth of such a self-driven employee. A supervisor who has acquired skills and expertise to achieve this is a quality staff to the institution. Conclusion Discipline in the police force is one of the most important things and the topic should be handled with care. Lack of discipline in the force means that the indiscipline is extended to the society in general since a person who is undisciplined himself cannot function to the right standards. But as much as we delve in punitive discipline institutions should realize that the most important discipline is the positive discipline. When subordinates are internally disciplined, the effects will be long lasting as opposed to corrective discipline which is administered after some malpractice has already happened. Police supervisors should seek to adopt methods of according positive discipline if they want to be effective in the role in the long run. References More, H and Miller, L. (2007). Effective Police Supervision: Coaching, Counseling and mentoring, 5th Ed, Chapter 11-13, copyright Mathew Bender and Company, Inc, a member of the LexisNexis Group Office of Police Integrity. (2007). A fair and Effective Victoria Police Discipline System, Victorian Government Printer, session 2006-2007, P.P No. 3 Shimansky.B. (2006). Discipline as an integral Part of Effective Supervision, retrieved from web. Werder, E.J. (1996). The Great Sergeant! Personal Qualities of a Great Sergeant, National Executive Institute Associates, Major Cities Chief’s Association and Major County Sheriff’s Association.

The Causes of The English Revolution of 1642 †History Essay

The Causes of The English Revolution of 1642 – History Essay Free Online Research Papers The years 1640 to 1650 were a decade of uncertainty for most of Europe. Many groups revolted in an attempt to restore regional autonomies that had been taken over by a strong central government. Only in England, however, did the revolt turn into a major revolution. Changes slowly permeated England’s central government towards the end of the Tudor dynasty. The gentry class, a land owning social group immediately below the nobles, began gaining momentum. By the time of Elizabeth’s death, the gentry class controlled most of the economic aspect of the country and Parliament. The political changes and the economical changes caused by the gentry combined with the change of dynasties caused conflicts within England. The lack of harmony between the Parliament and the Monarchy eventually evolved into a civil war called the English Revolution. The three overriding causes of the English revolution were financial burdens, Political dilemmas, and religious incongruities. Financial burdens of the monarchs were probably the most predominate factor that contributed to the English revolution. With Elizabeth’s death came the end of the Tudor dynasty, and the new king James I was too bombastic to Parliament’s liking, especially those people of the House of Commons. During the last twenty years of Elizabeth’s reign, her resources had been overtaxed by war with Spain and an economic depression; when she died, Elizabeth I left the throne and a 400,000-pound debt to James I of Scotland. 400,000-pounds was equivalent to a year worth of royal revenues. The House of Commons was a decisive force in passing laws regarding taxes; they resented the king and opposed him in everyway possible. The uncooperative attitude of the Parliament caused James to act against the Parliament’s wishes and laid the foundation of the civil war. The financial problems worsened when the Scots entered England. The inflation of war prices due to changes in war crafts, and the difficulty to earn money forced the king to bargain with the Parliament. However, the negotiations always failed and ended with the king dissolving the Parliament angrily. Political dilemmas were another overriding conflict that contributed to the English revolution. Unlike Elizabeth I, James I viewed his power as unlimited and absolute. When Elizabeth died in 1603, the gentry class was slowly becoming more decisive and important in the House of Commons. The gentry expressed their views of public matters through the House of Commons and eventually posed a serious threat to the monarchy. James I denied some of the authorities of the House of Commons, the gentry responded by openly opposing royal policies and engaged in a running battle with the king. For example, Parliament blocked the union of England and Scotland, and they also drew up an â€Å"Apology† outlining the ignorance of James I. The Parliament convinced James to pass an unprecedented right for parliament to discuss foreign policy. To please the Parliament, Charles I agreed on the Petition of Right. The Petition of Right demanded an end to imprisonment without the consent of Parliament , to martial law in peacetime, and to the billeting of troops among civilians. These demands made the Parliament more powerful than Charles had planned. He betrayed his words and started a feud with Parliament. Without Parliament, the king was unable to charge efficient taxes and pass enforceable laws. The last attempt to compromise between the King and the Parliament took place in early 1640. However Charles refused to change his policies, and the Commons refused to grant a subsidy. Therefore, the Parliament and the Monarch remained at a stalemate and the problems were never solved. Another point of view regarding the diversities of James I, and Charles I to Parliament was that the Parliament idealized James and Charles as Kings of a single nation state of England. But in reality, these kings had stronger ties in Scotland and ventured to find a way to govern Britain as king of England. Monarchs found this was something they could not do, not even in the present days. Religion also served as a catalyst of the English Revolution. Even though none of the overriding factors that caused the war seem to be religious, the leaders of the revolts were all Puritan radicals. The Puritans thought that the Anglican Church established by Elizabeth I was still too close to Catholicism. They felt that the Anglican Church should be replaced by a congregational system in which each local congregation would decide its own form of worship or establish a strictly organized Calvinist system. Oliver Cromwell devoted his time to religious freedom and a constitutional government. Puritans were not a majority of the population that were influential, however, they were very persuasive and courageous. Just like the Puritans, even though religion incongruity was not the overriding factor in starting the English revolution, it contributed greatly in igniting the feuds. â€Å"A revolution is an attempt to overturn the social and political system and create a new structure of society.† stated The Western Experience. The English revolution of 1640 was a futile attempt to overturn a well-established monarchy. The forces (political, economical, and religious) that drove England into the revolution cannot act alone. It took the unity of all three to ignite the civil war. Another Monarchy was established under Charles II a few years after the end of the revolution, and most of the religious and political aspects that the rebels fought for reverted back to that before the revolution. However, the political relations had changed for good; Habeas Corpus laid a strong foundation for future constitutional developments and Parliament’s powers were no longer challenged. Research Papers on The Causes of The English Revolution of 1642 - History EssayQuebec and CanadaAssess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 Europe19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraBringing Democracy to AfricaPETSTEL analysis of IndiaStandardized TestingAppeasement Policy Towards the Outbreak of World War 2Comparison: Letter from Birmingham and CritoCanaanite Influence on the Early Israelite ReligionHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Essay

Impact of UK reservoirs on the surrounding environment Dissertation

Impact of UK reservoirs on the surrounding environment - Dissertation Example The paper tells that over the last 25 years, the â€Å"freeboard and spillway arrangements† for reservoirs in the UK have been based on the unit hydrograph rainfall-runoff and losses model. The model was used to obtain the design of the events of flood that would enable to determine whether the prevailing arrangements might convene the floods. The characteristics of drainage such as the area of the basin, the basin shape, the type of soil, use of the land, drainage density and drainage network topology, and the rainfall characteristics that include duration of the rainfall, its intensity, its distribution and direction are the different factors that might affect the shape of the hydrograph. The unit hydrograph model was established in the year 1975. However in the recent years, the model has been revitalized and hence replaced with the ReFH or Revitalized Flood Hydrograph Model that comprises three significant components – the loss, routine and baseflow models. The seas onality of the floods is also measured through this model such that factors of seasonal corrections are applied to the estimates of the flood designs and conditions with the purpose of meeting the floods. The Reservoirs Act 1975 led the responsibility of the law to protect the reservoirs in the UK. Approximately 25000 cu m of water is held by the UK reservoirs and the Act covers around 2500 reservoirs under its framework. England, Wales and Scotland are under the purview of this Act. However, the Act does not cover the reservoirs across the Northern Ireland. Undertakers, Enforcement Authorities, Qualified Civil Engineers, and the Secretary of the State are the four major persons or organizations in charge under the Act who have the different responsibilities in regard to the protection of the UK reservoirs. The undertakers are referred to the owners of the reservoirs and thus have the most significant responsibility for the reservoir’s safety. The role of the enforcement authorities comprises monitoring the performance of the undertakers. The design and supervision of the constructions of the reservoirs focusing on the safety issue are the responsibilities of the qualified engineers. The Secretary of State is in charge of supervising the activities of the other three major persons or organizations (The British Dam Society, 2010). It is in the last five years that the risks arising out from the reservoirs have been considered significantly as a matter of c oncern. The risk factors have arisen as a result of the uncontrolled discharge of water from the reservoirs threatening the lives of the heavily populated regions where the reservoirs are located in the UK. The reservoir safety legislation was introduced in the year 1930. Since then such disastrous incidents have not occurred. However, there have been several incidents that could have taken several lives (Morris, Hewlett & Elliott, n.d., p.3). Not only are the risks associated with such reservoirs, but also several advantages and disadvantages and impacts are associated related to the surrounding environment that might occur as a result of the constructions and use of the reservoirs in the UK. The present study focuses on the impacts that UK reservoirs have on its surrounding environment. The following figure represents the overall reservoir stocks in England and Wales between 1996-2005: Figure 1: Overall Reservoir Stocks in England and Wales 1996-2005 (Water Levels, 2007). 2. Liter ature Review: For a better understanding of the literature relating to the impact of reservoirs in the UK on the surrounding community it would be significant to gain a proper understanding of reservoirs and their function in the society. This will allow for

Contractor case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Contractor case study - Essay Example b. Public liability insurance details c. Details of any licensed security to be employed In reply to our correspondence with the Liquor and Gambling Commission, we were told that alcohol will not be sold or supplied to intoxicated persons or persons under the age of 18 years and we should ensure the safety and comfort of those attending the function by not permitting overcrowding in any area. We were also asked to display the limited license in a prominent position during the whole of the function. Lastly we were asked to nominated person(s) to take responsibility for the sale, consumption or supply of liquor during the function i.e. the applicant or nominated person organizing or taking control of the function, must be present at the function at all times when liquor is being sold, consumed or supplied. (Office of Liquor & Gambling Commissioner 2003, Government of South Australia) Draft of the letter sent to the Council: To Whom It May Concern ____________ (***Your Organization Name***) will be organizing an Outdoor Cinema Night at the "Mrs.Macquaries Char" of Sydney Botanic Gardens, which we hope shall be a fun-filled evening. The event will officially start at 7pm on the 14th of May 2008, first featuring the performance by the dance troop, then we shall be having a break for food and drinks the evening will end with the broadcast of "Bourne Supremacy" at "OpenAir Cinema", Mrs.Macquaries Point from 9pm to 12 pm. Yours Sincerely, ________________(***Your Organization Name****) Contractors: - We will be making use of various contractors: 1. "Be Productions": Be Productions is a Sydney based production company and national leaders in Open-Air Cinema event management. Be Productions will be undertaking for us, the complete set-up and...entertainment consent/trading hours). In reply to our correspondence with the Liquor and Gambling Commission, we were told that alcohol will not be sold or supplied to intoxicated persons or persons under the age of 18 years and we should ensure the safety and comfort of those attending the function by not permitting overcrowding in any area. We were also asked to display the limited license in a prominent position during the whole of the function. Lastly we were asked to nominated person(s) to take responsibility for the sale, consumption or supply of liquor during the function i.e. the applicant or nominated person organizing or taking control of the function, must be present at the function at all times when liquor is being sold, consumed or supplied. (Office of Liquor & Gambling Commissioner 2003, Government of South Australia) The event will officially start at 7pm on the 14th of May 2008, first featuring the performance by the dance troop, then we shall be having a break for food and drinks the evening will end with the broadcast of "Bourne Supremacy" at "OpenAir Cinema", Mrs.Macquaries Point from 9pm to 12 pm. All Time Securities success is driven through innovation and customer satisfaction.

Literature Review on Small-Group Learning Activities

On Small-Group Learning Activities - Literature review Example If collaborative effort is applied to any task then the productivity tends to increase (Zawojewski & Et. Al., 2003). The overall study tries to demonstrate the importance of the small group learning activities. Objective of the Study The main objective of the study has been to understand the role of the small-group learning activities. The study will be related to the United Kingdom undergraduate students in subject areas linked to health care. The study will provide certain supporting evidences in small-group learning activities for the small group to discuss and debate. A clinical based scenario will be selected upon which the overall literature review will be based. At first the literature review will try to make the reader understand as to what the term small-group learning activity denotes. It will further try to explain the clinical based evidences that can be used by the small groups of students to discuss and debate. Finally, the literature review will try to identify the imp act of such small group learning activities. ... Therefore, it is important to understand if the three terms that is collaborative learning, cooperative learning and small-group learning express the same meaning. Most of the practitioners consider all the three types of learning to have the same goals, that is, to change a passive classroom environment into active student-centered environment. However, it has been evident that most of the authors don’t view the three types of learning as synonymous. In this regards, it can be discussed that the two terms collaborative learning as well as cooperative learning can be distinguished from each other. However, both the terms seem to focus upon the notion that students need to engage themselves with the study material so that they can learn the information in a meaningful manner. These terms assist in creating the environment where the students engage themselves in the study material by partaking of their knowledge and ideas by means of providing the support, feedback along with en couragement and by teaching each other. It is to be pointed out that the term small-group learning is quite flexible as well as comprehensive. It further reveals that there might be circumstances when the members of the group don’t cooperate or it might even be the case when the members of the group simply collaborate. The type of task the group needs to accomplish determines the interaction among the group members in most of the cases. It can be demonstrated that the small-group learning has turned into current label that is given to the type of active-learning activity by putting the students into groups and they are asked to achieve the task (Kreke & Towns, 1998). Importance of Using the Small-Group

Individual report based on an observation of an establishment Essay

Individual report based on an observation of an establishment - Essay Example Observation of the Hawthorn effect In order to examine the Hawthorne effect specific tests are performed. These tests mainly included examining the efficiency level of the employees. The employees and staff were informed beforehand that their actions will be kept under observation for the purpose of conducting successful experiments (Abratt, Beffon and For, 2011). Two different sets of experiments are performed one without the acknowledgement of the participants and one with the acknowledgement of the participants. The experiment indicated that the there is marked difference between e two experiments. So it can be concluded that Hawthorn effect was present in the observations. Details of the Hyatt Regency Different kinds of accommodations are available at Hyatt. Some of the types of rooms are standard rooms, triple or family rooms and suite. The hotel is present in 7 different international countries. Altogether there are about more than 500 plus bedrooms in Hyatt. Some of the well k nown brands are Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency and many more. The hotel offers a diverse range of facilities starting from plush services like room services, online hotel and resort booking services, bag drops and pulls, dining and cuisine, baby sitting services, bell services, business centre services, concierge services, and currency exchange services (Aiken and West, 2001). The other kinds of services are engineering services, exhibit halls, food and beverage services, gift certificates. The different types of clubs, lounges and restaurants are Regency Club, Peppercorn Duck Club, Skies Restaurant, the Terrace restaurant, Coffee Express, Market segment of Hyatt Regency Table 1: Market segment of Hyatt Amerisuites Corporate business and family weekend leisure traveller, 30 to 59 years of age, 50% male/50% female, Household income $85,000+ Park Hyatt High income, Professionals, high level executives, celebrities Grand Hyatt Upper to high level income, Professionals, s enior and mid-level executives, upscale meetings, Hyatt Regency Middle to upper income, Professional, managerial, convention groups, Hyatt resorts Middle to upper income depending on branding, Professionals, mid to senior level executives, meetings and incentive groups Spa Hyatt Culturally sensitive acknowledging deep local customs and traditions Hyatt vacation club Middle to upper income, University educated with post-graduate degree courses Source: (Anderson and Mittal, 2002) Details of the information gathering process The resorts and hotels of Hyatt are connected to a central server of each hotel. The central servers are connected to each other in a network of interlinked and interconnected system. All the hotels and resorts of Hyatt use as single source software which helps to create an inter link between the various departments as well as between hotels and resorts (Berman and Evans, 2007). The implementation of the central reservation system at Hyatt has led to a record incre ase in the number of rooms sold (almost 31%). Whereas the industry average indicates that the number of rooms sold increased by only 20% to 25% (Craig and Douglas, 2005). The central reservation system is used for collecting information like the operational efficiency and revenue generation. The diagram given below gives an indication of the grading system of restaurant. Fig 2: Auditing process of restaurants Source: (Anderson and Sullivan, 2002) B Details of the administrative and accommodation departments The different typ

Seminar Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Seminar - Essay Example The project is an ideal catalyst for both my artistic and professional growth. The project will provide me with an opportunity to interact with customers and will therefore require me to act ethically and professionally. From such reactions, I will improve my professional expertise in the practice. Additionally, the cloud installations are artistic. Every real-life installation I make will improve my artistry. The practice is pivotal in my practice since it will provide me with an opportunity to start my career and position it strategically for growth. The success of the business amounts to my success. Creative capital offers artists a number of both monetary and non-monetary services and resources that can help in a number of ways. The professional development workshops for example can help enhance my development in the practice. Through the workshops, I will acquire appropriate professional skills that will enhance the development of the business. Additionally, Creative Capital offers both funding and counsel to great projects and business ideas. Both would help me overcome a number of operational challenges thereby ensuring that the business idea enjoys immense success for

Individual report based on an observation of an establishment Essay

Individual report based on an observation of an establishment - Essay Example Observation of the Hawthorn effect In order to examine the Hawthorne effect specific tests are performed. These tests mainly included examining the efficiency level of the employees. The employees and staff were informed beforehand that their actions will be kept under observation for the purpose of conducting successful experiments (Abratt, Beffon and For, 2011). Two different sets of experiments are performed one without the acknowledgement of the participants and one with the acknowledgement of the participants. The experiment indicated that the there is marked difference between e two experiments. So it can be concluded that Hawthorn effect was present in the observations. Details of the Hyatt Regency Different kinds of accommodations are available at Hyatt. Some of the types of rooms are standard rooms, triple or family rooms and suite. The hotel is present in 7 different international countries. Altogether there are about more than 500 plus bedrooms in Hyatt. Some of the well k nown brands are Park Hyatt, Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency and many more. The hotel offers a diverse range of facilities starting from plush services like room services, online hotel and resort booking services, bag drops and pulls, dining and cuisine, baby sitting services, bell services, business centre services, concierge services, and currency exchange services (Aiken and West, 2001). The other kinds of services are engineering services, exhibit halls, food and beverage services, gift certificates. The different types of clubs, lounges and restaurants are Regency Club, Peppercorn Duck Club, Skies Restaurant, the Terrace restaurant, Coffee Express, Market segment of Hyatt Regency Table 1: Market segment of Hyatt Amerisuites Corporate business and family weekend leisure traveller, 30 to 59 years of age, 50% male/50% female, Household income $85,000+ Park Hyatt High income, Professionals, high level executives, celebrities Grand Hyatt Upper to high level income, Professionals, s enior and mid-level executives, upscale meetings, Hyatt Regency Middle to upper income, Professional, managerial, convention groups, Hyatt resorts Middle to upper income depending on branding, Professionals, mid to senior level executives, meetings and incentive groups Spa Hyatt Culturally sensitive acknowledging deep local customs and traditions Hyatt vacation club Middle to upper income, University educated with post-graduate degree courses Source: (Anderson and Mittal, 2002) Details of the information gathering process The resorts and hotels of Hyatt are connected to a central server of each hotel. The central servers are connected to each other in a network of interlinked and interconnected system. All the hotels and resorts of Hyatt use as single source software which helps to create an inter link between the various departments as well as between hotels and resorts (Berman and Evans, 2007). The implementation of the central reservation system at Hyatt has led to a record incre ase in the number of rooms sold (almost 31%). Whereas the industry average indicates that the number of rooms sold increased by only 20% to 25% (Craig and Douglas, 2005). The central reservation system is used for collecting information like the operational efficiency and revenue generation. The diagram given below gives an indication of the grading system of restaurant. Fig 2: Auditing process of restaurants Source: (Anderson and Sullivan, 2002) B Details of the administrative and accommodation departments The different typ

Qualitative Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Qualitative Research - Essay Example The reason why qualitative research method is used is because of its ease of use over quantitate research method. For instance, measuring human emotions through quantitative research would be very difficult. However there are tools available in qualitative research method where people can even incorporate human emotions and feelings in their analysis. When using qualitative research methodology, the conclusion of the study is a mere proposition, an informed assertion. There is no ‘hence proved’ at the end of the study. This is where quantitative study comes in. If the proposition deduced by qualitative research needs to be proven or at least get a more concrete support, the proposition can be analysed/qualified with quantitative research. Empirical support can be used from quantitative method to support qualitative conclusion. However this approach is discredited by Oxford University professor Bent Flyvbjerg. According to Flyvbjerg, qualitative research methodology can b e used, both for hypotheses testing and going beyond the limit of generalizing limited case studies (Flyvbjerg, 2006). Strengths of Qualitative Research Here are some of the strengths of qualitative research; a) Data is based on participants’ own meanings and interpretations b) In-depth study becomes relatively easy in qualitative research however the number of cases can’t be too large c) When complex phenomena are being studied it is helpful to use qualitative method d) It provides information on individual cases e) Can conduct cross-case comparisons and analysis f) It provides an understanding of personal experiences of people. g) It can describe the phenomena in rich detail as it embosses in local context. h) The examiner can study active processes, for instance documenting sequential patterns and alterations. i) The examiner almost always classifies contextual and setting factors as they link with the portent of interest. j) Primarily qualitative method of grounded theory can be used by the investigator to generate a cautious but elaborate theory about the phenomenon under study (Johnson & Christensen, 2000). 2. Interpretivism   Interpretivism is a concept in sociology that the method of investigation applied to the natural world may not be applicable to the social realm. In other words, scientists and investigators must discard empirical evidence and scientific method social research. This aspect of interpretivism is also called Anti-positivism, which holds that scientists need to focus on the interpretations of social sciences in understanding the people being studied (Gerber, John J. Macionis, Linda M., 2011). Interpretivism is a term that has two contexts i.e. legal and social. In the philosophy of law, Interpretivism is a school of thought which claims that a) Law and morality do have their differences but they cannot be separated. b) Law is not inherent in nature and legal values cannot exist without legal practice. c) Law is not a gi ven set of conventions and data (Wikipedia Contributors, 2012). In social sciences, Interpretivism or Anti-positivism is a view which claims that social realm may not be subject to the investigative methods of natural world. It proposes that in order to conduct social research, researchers must abandon the scientific method and focus on the personal interpretation of social actions of the people under study. In today’

Poems by Blake and Wordsworth Essay Example for Free

Poems by Blake and Wordsworth Essay Two aspects of London as shown through a response to poems by Blake and Wordsworth. When comparing Blake and Wordsworths pieces, the respective perspectives of the authors should never be far from our thoughts. Whereas Blake lived in London his whole life and seldom ventured outside its borders, Wordsworth was a rural person whose only experiences of London came from short visits. Unaccustomed to the hustle and bustle of City life, Wordsworth led a comparatively relaxed existence which perhaps accounts for his romantic and gentile style. We should not be surprised to see that Blake, a frequenter of the less-desirable districts of the capital, offers a far more cynical portrayal of London. Blakes poem is a social commentary which points an ugly finger at the industrialist pioneers and the flaws of Industrial society. Blake was a renowned radical of the era with far-reaching ideas. He uses many literary devices to impart his opinions upon his audience. This is superbly demonstrated when he writes: I wander through each chartered street The reference is a metaphorical reflection on Blakes perception that anything and everything is for sale in an industrial society and, in particular, in its impoverished areas. Repetition is clearly employed when the piece claims: In every cry of every man, In every infants cry of fear, In every voice, in every ban, The mind-forged manacles I hear The repetition could be equated with anything from the machinery at work in the factories and mills, to an assault of stabbing pain upon those suffering in poverty. Within the framework which Blake creates, the reader is left to determine his own idea of what the repetition may represent, and this is at the centre of the verses success. Irony is employed with great effect in the verse beginning How the chimney-sweepers cry. The author contrasts the poverty and ill-health of chimney-sweeps with the wealth of the church, and suggests that instead of helping the poor the church pays them a pittance to work in hazardous conditions. Irony often stands side by side with black humour, and both are well-demonstrated in this verse. The amusing of the reader with a subject which should not amuse serves to further draw them into the piece. In the latter part of the same verse, emotive comparisons are made between the plight of Londons less-fortunate and warfare. Blakes use of the word soldiers is no accident here; for soldiers are tools of war, and must have opponents. This leads the reader to ask: with whom are the soldiers at war? As Marx foretold and the French Revolution demonstrated, the working classes and those controlling the means of production operate with opposing aims. Blake brings a new element of severity to the situation by suggesting that forces are at work against the poor subjects. INSERT LAST VERSE DISCUSSION HERE Wordsworth is blissfully unaware of the scenes which Blake paints. Indeed, Wordsworths London is so far removed from Blakes that one is led to ask whether the two are writing of the same city at all. There is a significant period of time between the two which could arguably account for this; Wordsworths work being written before the Industrial Revolution and Blake at its height.

Historical Cost and Fair Value

Historical Cost and Fair Value 1.0 INTRODUCTION There have been many discussions and debates concerning use of fair value accounting against use of historical cost accounting. Some prefer fair value whilst some have a preference for historical cost accounting. Both methods of valuation have been criticized and as well embraced. It is evident that a quality description and quantitative information about the nature of the financial asset is essentially important and the amount that is appraised from the chosen method of valuation is included in the financial statements. The question however remains as to which measurement method must one use to cope with todays complex financial instruments and risk management strategies. We must acknowledge that we are in an era where we use many complicated financial instruments and risk management strategies which render that yesterdays prices may have become obsolete and many people now demand historical cost be either abandoned, reviewed, modified or replaced by current cost system to reflect a more accurate financial reporting (Muller, K. A., 2008). The issue of assets and liabilities valuation has become more pressing now than it was ever before. The FASBÂ  [1]Â  is slowly modernizing the GAAPÂ  [2]Â  principles and in doing so, it is attempting to make financial statements more meaningful and bring books in line with the international standards. Historical cost and fair value methods of valuation have both been around for a long time. The choice of whether to switch to fair value method is interestingly an important decision where all perspectives have to be equally evaluated in considering the transition from an existing to a new method of financial asset valuation. History has proven that the historical cost principle has worked absolutely fine all this while. This now poses us a question as to why the consideration and speculation to switch to a new method of financial asset valuation. What theories and what basis should drive the motivation to choose a varying method of financial asset valuation and what could be ideally considered being the opportune time for the switch in choice of model. With the ever increasing concerns between both the public and private sectors pertaining to the adequacy of financial statement reporting by respective financial institutions, a considerable attention has been received by the FASB, SECÂ  [3]Â  and other regulating bodies. The adaption of the IFRSÂ  [4]Â  in the European Union with effect from 1st of January 2005 birthed a number of significant changes in how firms must report their financial positions (Muller et al 2008). Measurement of financial assets is the core issue of relevance in financial accounting and reporting today. In order to decide which method of valuation one must choose, it is imperative that there must be a sound understanding of the fair value and historical cost method of valuation for financial assets. This seminar attempts to carry out an in depth research on the fair value and historical cost method of valuation, understand the underlying assumptions of each, identify the strengths and weaknesses of both. Various companies has been researched and contacted in order to obtain feedback on their chosen method of financial asset and liabilities valuation. Responses received are summarized in analysis and findings section of this paper and has been deliberated upon in understanding how companies and organizations in Fiji are valuing their assets and liabilities for reporting in their financial statements. Also encompassed are various literature and resource materials that we have studied. These have been reviewed and key essence and aspects of topic under study has been entailed in section entitled Literature Review. 1.1 THEORETICAL UNDERPINNINGS Accounting is highly purposive field and any assumption, principle or procedure is accordingly justified if it adequately serves the end in view (Paton, 1922). There are many accounting conventions under the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) which is now known as IFRS. Historical Cost Convention is the conventional valuation concept whose resources are valued in accordance with the cost of acquisition by the enterprise (Glautier and Underdown, 1982). Assets are recorded at their original cost at the time of purchase. This convention is highly preferred for the historical cost method over fair value. The Conservatism Convention assumes that accountants are pessimistic in measuring revenues and expenses. Revenues are not recorded until they were virtually certain but expenses were recorded as soon as they become remote. If accountants had to choose for measurements of cost for assets and liabilities they would have chosen the lowest for assets and highest for liabilities mostly adopt historical cost method. The historical cost of method is well preferred over the fair value method as the Accounting as a Historical record is concerned at providing a faithful record of transaction of an entity rather to provide a valuation of the firm at a given period of time (Godfrey et. al, 2006 pg 18). While historical cost method may give some indication to shareholders of the stewardship of management in the management of costs and money capital under the control, the records give no indication of the real worth of the enterprise as a going concern except to the extent that operating profit is a predictive devise (Budge and Hendriksen, 1974). Objective of stewardship is based on agency theory. Managers choice of accounting method usually comes as agency theory. Agency theory provides a necessary explanation of why a selection of particular accounting method might matter, and hence was an important facet for the development of Positive accounting theory. It is assumed that under agency theory principals will assume that the agents (principal) will be driven by self interest and therefore the principals will anticipate that the managers, unless restricted from doing otherwise, will undertake self serving activities that could be detrimental to the economic welfare of the principals (Deegan 2002). Since the behavior of this principal cannot be predicted as their salaries are tied to accounting figures and monitoring the principal behavior is difficult. The preparers of financial reports will choose measurement basis for higher profit for the remuneration purposes. It could be better if the particular method such as historical cost is stated in the contract of the principal for reporting purpose. Watts and Zimmerman identified three key hypotheses that have become frequent in the Positive Accounting Theory literature to explain and predict whether an organization would support or oppose a particular accounting method. A higher profit is precise under the management hypothesis or bonus plan hypothesis. The preparers of the reports will use such accounting methods that increase current reported income. Such method increases the present value of bonuses if the compensation committees do not adjust for the methods chosen. This hypothesis predicts that if managers are rewarded in terms of performance with accounting figures than mangers will chose methods to increase accounting profit with an attempt to increase bonus. A higher profit is also preferred by Debt Equity hypothesis which predicts that the higher the firms debt equity ratio the more likely the managers use accounting methods that increases income. The higher the debt to equity ratio, the closer the firms to the constraints in debt covenant. The tighter the covenant constraint, the greater the possibility of a covenant violation and of incurring of costs from technical defaults. Mangers choosing income increasing accounting method relaxes debt constraints and reduces the technical defaults (Deegan 2002). The Political Hypothesis predicts the larger firms rather than small firms are likely to choose accounting methods that reduces reported profit. Reducing reported profit could decrease the possibility that people will argue that the organization is exploiting other parties by applying business practices that generate excessive profit for the benefits of owners while at the same time providing limited returns to others parties involved in the transaction. Chambers Theory of Continuously Contemporary Accounting made judgment about what people need in terms of information. Chamber makes an assumption about the objective of accounting is to guide future actions. He prescribed that all assets should be measured at net market value and that such information is more useful for informed decision making than information based on historical cost which could be misleading. A number of prescriptive theories were developed which adopted Decision Usefulness approach to Accounting Theory. Chambers Blueprint paper published in 1955 is arguably among the first to emphasis decision usefulness .He wrote: It is therefore corollary of the assumption of rational management that there shall be an information providing system, such as basis for decision and as a basis for reviewing the consequences of decision. It is suggested that accounting information should be relevant, verifiable, free from bias and quantifiable. The choice of Accounting Methods depends on factors such as reliability, relevance, timeliness and comparability. Finally, there are several other theories to accounting which could explain the choice for the kind of measurement base or method. Cost Attach theory, Investor theory, True income theory, Behavioral Accounting theory, Measurement theory, Accounting as Magic and communication theory and others. Measurement is a hub of Accounting which has a lot of accounting theory underlying measurement basis. The minimum requirement for giving theoretical justification to an allocation method are that it should be possible to specify unambiguously and in advance, the method to be used and to defend that choice against all competing alternatives. 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW There has been much discussion about fair value accounting. Disclosing assets at their fair value as opposed to their historical cost is preferred by some but opposed by others. The use of fair value accounting has been around for decades primarily for financial assets. In recent years, both the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) have moved towards more extensive use of fair value accounting. According to Godfrey et al (2006) the use of historical cost for valuation of non-monetary assets has come from several sources, these include the 1940 book by Paton and Littleton, An Introduction to Corporate Accounting Standards. The book provides many of the theoretical arguments for the accounting. Historical cost is generally defined as the amount at which the asset or liability was originally obtained. Where the historical cost is expected to be different from the final value when the item is no longer on the balance sheet, some amortization or depreciation of the value is expected. This can result in an amortised cost or depreciated cost value. These values are generally more reliably determinable, but less relevant than fair value. Casonbona et al (2007) define fair value as the amount for which an asset could be exchanged or a liability settled between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arms length transaction. This assumes that it represents market value in a sufficiently robust and efficient market. Where no market exists, the fair value would need to be conceptually estimated. In making comparisons between the two, Toppe Shortridge et al (2006) refer to an argument of relevance over reliability. They argue that the proponent of fair value accounting believe that historical cost financial statements are not relevant because they do not provide information about current values. Theorists and practitioners against fair value argue that the information provided by fair value financial statements is unreliable because it is not based on arms length transactions. They contend that if information is unreliable it should not be used to make financial decisions. However they also argue that the proponents of fair value accounting would claim that it is more relevant to decision makers even if it is less reliable. These arguments include that fair value accounting would produce balance sheets that are more representative of the companys value. Specifically, unless the values of fixed assets are assumed to remain the same over time, historical cost information is rel evant only up on obtaining the asset. A number of studies have been conducted to argue that one method is more appropriate than another. Ebling (2001) argues that accounting rules around the world are moving steadily towards fair value accounting and away from historical cost accounting. In his study he argues that the banking systems figures would become more volatile. The banks would see their business managed against long term objectives and not short term measures and it is historical costs that better reflect the economic substance of the transactions, the actual cash flow and the earnings process. Chisnall (2001) also supports this view and argues that the banking industry as an example would be best to use modified historical cost as a better basis on which to measure banking book performance in primary financial statements. The issue of volatility has surfaced in recent times with the example of the collapse of Enron as an example. Barr (2009) reflects that fair value can be an accurate way to value assets but it needs time to be fully perfected. With Enron fair value accounting was used to mislead investors, regulators and the general public. Kemp (2008) argues that fair value accounting works best where the legal framework of society accepts the subjectivity of the market and thus divergent values as in Europe, as opposed the USA with its very open legal system. The disadvantages of fair value are also highlighted. It is argued that valuation is a subjective judgment and therefore as an example if two evaluators were to conduct the valuation process they may arrive at different estimates of the fair value although both would have followed the objectives of fair value measurement. There are many issues involved with fair value accounting. Some argue that fair value is beneficial to investors when they are trying to evaluate risk, return and valuation of a business. Dvorakova (2007) in her study of historical costs versus fair value measurement in financial accounting uses the example of non-financial assets. In her study she notes that IAS 41- Agriculture sets a precedent in application of the fair value measurement to biological assets and agricultural production. The study states that the fair value measurement has been required by IAS 41 because historical cost measurement is not able to cover the value of biological assets of enterprises in the market environment. Muller et al (2008) examine the cause of and consequences of investment property companies choice to use the historical cost or fair value standard to account for their primary asset, real estate. The examination exploits the European Unions adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards which require companies to make this choice under IAS 40 Investment Property. The study showed that companies are more likely to use the fair value standard when a company shows a greater commitment to reporting transparency. It showed that some companies however were also opportunistic in using fair value to report larger gains than companies using the historical cost standard. Christensen and Nikolaev (2009) studied whether and why companies prefer fair value to historical cost when they can choose between the two valuation methods. Their study show that with the exception of investment property owned by real estate companies, historical cost by far dominates fair value in practice. They state that fair value accounting is not used for plant, equipment and tangible assets. They found that companies using fair value accounting rely more on debt financing than companies that use historical cost. This evidence is consistent with companies using fair value to show asset liquidation values to their creditors and is not consistent with equity investors demanding fair value accounting for non-financial assets. This study was based on a sample of 1,539 companies. It identified each companys valuation practice by reading the accounting policy section in its annual report. No companies in the sample used fair value accounting for intangible assets. Only 3% used it for assets such as plant and equipment. With very few exceptions fair value is used exclusively for property. The study also looked the balance sheets of the companies and found that that the total assets and shareholders equity were, respectively, 31% and 88% higher on average for the companies using fair value as opposed to a matched sample of companies that only use historical cost accounting. The study also proves that a mixed approach is taken to the use of fair value under IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment. The study further states that companies that follow historical cost accounting must periodically test their asset for impairment. An asset is considered impaired when its carrying amount is higher than its fair value less the costs to sell and the present value of future cash flows it is expected to generate. With historical cost accounting companies will in practice value assets close to fair value if depreciated historical costs exceed fair value. In contrast under fair value accounting companies revalue assets either upwards or downwards depending on the change in the fair value estimate. Beier (2008) talks about measurement issues with existing mixed standard models. He states that mismatches may occur because some assets and liabilities are reported at historical costs and some are marked to fair value. Examples he gives include; Financial institutions report many assets at fair value and the debt used to finance those assets is reported at historical cost; Debt nominated in a foreign currency is translated at spot rate while assets financed with that debt is translated at historical rate; Derivative used to finance inventory are reported at fair value while such inventory is reported at historical cost. Grover (2008) in his look at the debate of fair value versus historical costs states that while there needs to be consistency in accounting it may be necessary to measure certain balance sheet items at fair value and other at historical cost. It can be argued from the literature and studies conducted that fair value and historical costs both have their place in accounting. There are many different and unique kinds of businesses so one universal standard for valuing assets may be suitable for some but not for others. Fair value is beneficial due to its ability to provide an up to date value of business assets, but fair value may also inaccurately inflate the value of a company due to mistakes or misrepresentations and in doing so can falsely increase the confidence of investors and therefore increase its capital. Historical costs are beneficial as it is widely understood by investors and companies. Historical costing does not rely on estimating the value of assets and thus allows less room for fraudulent activities to occur. However the use of this standard can underestimate the value of a company since an increase in the value of an asset is not recorded until the asset is sold or traded. Although this may cause investors to wary of a company who has a deflated value it does provide more stability in the market. If both accounting standards are used it can improve meaningful information for decision making. The use of fair value allows for an up to date value of assets and produces relevant costs. As an example if a company owned a building the fair value of that building will be the opportunity cost of that building in terms of it being sold or rented or used for something other the companies intended use. As historical value is more widely used and understood it can be used as an external use of reporting value of assets. Historical costs can be used as the base in reporting value and fair value used as an estimate or projected value of assets to investors. 3.0 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES AIM To discuss the rationale of historical cost and fair value methods of measurement and determine whether it is appropriate to use both methods when compiling a set of financial statements. OBJECTIVES The scope of our research aims to address the following issues; Discuss the rationale of historical cost method. Benefits and constraints of historical cost method. Discuss the rationale of fair value method. Benefits and constraints of fair value method. Whether it is appropriate to use both methods when compiling a set of financial statements. Benefits and constraints of using both methods. 4.0 RESEARCH METHODS In compiling this research project, we used the following techniques to obtain data which are as follows: Questionnaire Distribution We compiled questions and distributed to 30 reporting entities in Suva and Nasinu area. These were given specifically to financial statement preparers namely financial controllers and accountants. Review of literature We reviewed the research papers and journals carried out by several researchers on fair value and historical cost. Online Research Accessing the internet played a vital role in obtaining current and up-to-date Information regarding historical cost and fair value. 5.0 ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS Question 1: 1. What method of measurement does your company currently use? Upon analyzing the outcomes of the 25 received responses from the reporting entities, 1 uses fair value method, 17 companies adopt to using historical cost as measurement basis while 7 stated that they use both methods that is fair value and historical costs. The table below shows the methods used by the companies in compiling the financial statements. Key: HC Historical cost FV Fair value Both Historical cost and fair value What are the benefits (advantages) of historical cost did you consider prior to implementing this measurement basis? The responses received in regards to the advantages of historical cost method have been quite similar and we have analysed the advantages in the following categories showing the number of respondents. What are the constraints (disadvantages) of historical cost measurement basis that your company may have faced? The responses received in regards to the disadvantages of historical cost method have been quite similar and we have analysed the disadvantages in the following categories showing the number of respondents. The respondents of 68% (17 out of 25) agreed that the benefits of using historical cost (Question 2) as its measurement basis outweighs the constraints identified in Question 3 while 32% (8 out of 25) thought otherwise. The major reasoning being that historical cost is fairly easy to use and understand and also in Fiji, there is constraints for lack of active markets for some classes of assets, thus for valuation purposes, adopting to fair value becomes an expensive for task for entities. What are the benefits (advantages) of fair value did you consider prior to implementing this measurement basis? The responses received in regards to the advantages of fair value method have been quite similar for most companies and we have analysed these advantages in the following categories showing the number of respondents. What are the constraints (disadvantages) of fair value measurement basis that your company may have faced? The responses received in regards to the disadvantages of Fair value method have been quite similar and we have analysed these disadvantages in the following categories showing the number of respondents. Do you consider that the benefits outweigh the constraints in using fair value as the measurement basis? Considering that only 32 %- 8 (1 FV and 7 both) out of the 25 companies use fair value, they responded that the benefit of the fair value identified in Question 5 does outweigh the constraints in Question 6 while the 68% (17) thought otherwise. We consider that the major factor behind this is due to lack of active markets for some assets whereby this becomes a cost constraint for entities and the complex nature of the methods used in fair value. Do you consider that it is appropriate to use both methods when compiling a set of financial statements? If so, please outline the benefits and limitations of using both methods i.e. historical cost and fair value? Of the 25 respondents, 19 (76%) of them view that it is appropriate to use both methods i.e. historical cost and fair value when compiling a set of financial statements while 6 (24%) of them view otherwise. The major reasoning being that this would be more reliable and relevant for decision making process such as for assets like Property Plant Equipment, entities consider using historical cost basis of measurement since it is easy and efficient to use while for investments; they consider fair value since current and market valuation is needed. Furthermore, the entities (respondents) also outlined benefits and constraints of using both methods i.e. historical cost and fair value which is analysed as follows: 6.0 LIMITATIONS In carrying out our research we encountered some problems that we think have inherent this research and is outlined as: Difficulties were faced by the group in seeking responses to the questionnaires on the subject matter as some companies were reluctant to provide information due to the busy schedules of their employees and key players from whom information was required and also private companies have strict confidentiality policies which restricted us in obtaining responses. There is a possibility that questionnaires were likely to be filled out by accountants and account officers who do not have knowledge to that extend about their companys policies regarding measurement hence there is a chance for incorrect data. Several companies refused to participate as they required going through the protocol of seeking permission from human resource department which was time consuming. Out of 30 questionnaires given, only 25 responses were received. If all had responded, we would have been able to gather more information which would have enhanced our analysis and findings. Likelihood of sampling error as disadvantaged by geographical area. Due to time constraints we distributed the questionnaires only in Suva and Nasinu areas; hence the study of other reporting entities from other regions could not be taken. If the questionnaires had been distributed to other region, then this paper would have been more creditable and informative. Excessive information based on overseas markets. This is a limitation as findings to Fijis context could not really be made. Based on our readings, overseas markets have efficient markets whereas in the South Pacific it is limited to only one. Our group made an effort to interview some companies however it was futile since they were unable to find a mutually convenient time. 7.0 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION 7.1 Recommendations Based on the research and in support of our conclusion, we recommend that: That the professional accounting bodies should continue to address the issue of measurement to provide with a solution. Accounting professional bodies such as AASB, FASB and IASB should be specific in their conceptual framework which measurement method should be used for different assets and be consistent across all borders. Accounting professional bodies such as AASB, FASB and IASB should provide conceptual framework for measurement such as on scale of businesses that is small size business, medium size and large business. Further studies to be carried out on the mixed method model appropriateness, incorporating the views of other stakeholders such as users given our narrow scope of research as well as need to consult a more representative sample of all stakeholders given our small sample size. 7.2 CONCLUSION Paragraph 100 of the IASB Framework states that: A number of different measurement bases are employed to different degrees and in varying combinations in financial statements. However, there is a lack of guidance in the framework in providing criteria for selecting measurement basis for particular elements of financial statements. Although accounting practices have changed considerably, still an overwhelming large majority of transactions is recorded and reported based on historical cost as it was centuries ago (Ijiri, 1975). Our conclusion is that it is appropriate to use both historical cost and fair value when compiling a set of financial statements. This conclusion is based through prudent evaluation of previous researches and the findings from the responses to our research questionnaire and thus it is conclusive that there is no ideal method for asset measurement. There is satisfactory research to support that fair value provides and enhances the relevance of financial information especially to assets with existing markets. However, this study identifies that in Fiji historical cost is the most preferred method for most firms and this may be of the fact that Fiji has many small to medium scale of businesses. Although fair value is included in the conceptual framework of accounting, there is insufficient empirical evidence and literature that views it to be the best method. Historical cost method reduces a number of problems, including information manipulation by managers, which further affects its reliability in decision making. Furthermore, development of rigid accounting standards is imperative to increase reliability of fair value. Paragraph 101 of the IASB Framework states that in preparing financial statements historical cost is usually combined with other measurement bases. Given that the framework does not explicitly refute and dispute such approach, using both fair value and historical cost simultaneously is not exactly deemed to be unprincipled. By using fair value, information becomes more relevant to decision-making process as it reflects up-to-date information. Even though fair value may be relevant, its reliability is questionable due to its subjective nature of determination. Lastly, by using both methods we are able to enjoy the benefits inherent in fair value as well as historical cost. One can argue that by combining the two, the reports become open to disadvantages inherent in the two as well.

Westward Expansion Essay -- essays research papers

WESTWARD EXPANSION The movement of people that has resulted in the settlement of America is one of the most fascinating and significant topics in the history of the United States. Nowhere else has an area of equal size been settled as a result of the initiative of small groups and individuals. Westward expansion helped stimulate the American economy. The first organized migration to California originated in Platte County, on the far western frontier of Missouri. Reports described California as "a perfect paradise, a perpetual spring." The people of Platte County formed the Western Emigration Society, which sent out information about California throughout the Mississippi Valley (Wexler,139). Several merchant and landowners were concerned about the number of prospective emigrants that they launched a campaign disparaging California. This act proved to be effective, in 1842 and 1843 relatively few emigrants followed the first migration to California. The first wagon train was led by John Bidwell, the organizer of the Western Emigration Society. Bidwell let the pioneers across the Rockies, a party of 69 adults and children who divided into two groups after crossing. One group headed north into Oregon, while the other, led by Bidwell continued west to California. By 1842, the currency system of the Republic of Texas was in such dire straits that even the government would not accept redbacks for payment of taxes. Other plans were attempted to get the republic fiscal house in order, but these plans achieved only slightly better results. However, as the economy in the United States improved and the Texas annexation movement gained momentum, currency in Texas slowly recovered some of its values before Texas was annexed in 1845(thewest@pbs.org). Slavery was a big issue, many anti-slavery leaders came out strong against adding another potential slave state to the Union. The basic concerns were - war with Mexico and the division over slavery(Remini). Clay argued against incorporating Texas into the Union when he was almost assured of the Whig Party's nomination for president. In the election Clay, who hedged on his annexation position, was narrowly defeated by James Polk, a former Tennessee senator who ran on a strong expansionist platform( Bender212). The Senate rejected the Texas annexation treaty submitted by John Tyler in 1844. Tyler resubmitted... ...overed gold on the American River at Coloma while building a lumber mill for John Sutter, in the lower Sacramento Valley. A brief report of the discovery appeared in a San Francisco newspaper in mid-March, where it went mostly unnoticed (thewest@pbs.org). By signing the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, on February 2, 1848, ending the Mexican- American War. The United States acquired an immense western territory stretching from Texas to the Pacific and north to Oregon, which included Upper California, Utah. The United States gained 1.2 million square miles, virtually doubling its territory. The human cost for the United States was 13,238 killed and 4,152 wounded. (6) The United States agreed to pay $13 million for land and assume payment of $3.25 million in claims that American had brought against Mexico (Wexler,210). The United States from the days of independence has adopted the project of extending its dominions, and since then, that line of policy has not deviated in the slightest degree. There is still considerable movement of people westward. In most respects the movement lost its typical characteristics when there could no longer be said to be a frontier line.