International Finance Management Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

International Finance Management - Term Paper Example Forward contracts however can not change hands and are contracts between two parties. Prevailing interest rates in the respective markets have a major impact on the increase or decrease of a contracts price. For example if the GBP/USD contract is on sale at CME, than an increase in the interest rates prevailing in the British economy would increase the contract price and those in the United States economy would decrease it. This is because there is a direct link between the price of value of a currency and interest rates. If for example interest rates are reduced money supply will increase in the economy. According to the economic laws of supply and demand, an increased supply would result in lower prices. Thus the futures expected price of currency would also decrease. Balance of trade is without doubt the most important factor that can affect the price of a currency. Balance of trade refers to the difference between what a country imports and exports. Also called the current account balance, it can only be offset if investors keep investing in dollar dominated assets. If a country gives a budget with a deficit, it can only fill up that deficit by borrowing money for the national or international market. The government will have to use up its currency reserves to pay off international debt and possibly print more money to pay of national debt; these will decrease the value of national currency. The stability of the government is also a huge factor in determining the increase or decrease of national currency value. This is because a stable government establishes stable policies; this stability reduces investor risk thus increasing currency value. These factors have huge impacts on Currency value. This is because the risk associated with the currency is high in war and the risk of default; on foreign payments also increase. In case of Natural disasters, the expenditure of the country increases on

Journal on Poems Essay Example for Free

Journal on Poems Essay The poem portrays the definitions of sanity and madness. However, these definitions vary from the perspective of people and the surroundings as pointed out in the second line. In other words, the poem points out that for certain people, something normal is considered insane and vice versa. 2. The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost Basically, for me, the poem depicted a common experience in life wherein one makes a choice between two things and then wonders what could’ve happened had he or she took the other option. The situation shown in the poem reflects a reality that everyone faces in life which is making a choice and standing by that decision. However, as illustrated in the poem, despite the choices people make regarding, for example, careers and business ventures, there will also be times that one doubts whether he or she made the right decision or not. 3. Design by Robert Frost The poem basically illustrates that most of the time the world’s beauty can be appreciated through observing the natural things such as the spider and the moth. In addition, as the title suggests, life is basically a design. It is natural for a spider to eat the moth as it was designed to do so. However, since the spider killed the moth, the author also wonders why the â€Å"designer† allows such a thing to happen. In short, while the author acknowledges the beauty natural order of things, he also questions why horrible events, such as death, happen. 4. Mending Wall by Robert Frost Initially, the poem suggests that there are no need for walls between neighbors as this suggests division. However, at the end, although the speaker in the poem still did not favor the construction of a wall between him and his neighbor, he acknowledged the fact that walls are important as these set boundaries and limitations. Basically, the poem also illustrates that in real life, â€Å"walls† or boundaries, which are best exemplified by laws and rules, are necessary to maintain order. 5. Cross by Langston Hughes The poem clearly depicts the speaker’s confusion about his identity. As the title of the poem says, the speaker is a â€Å"cross† between a white man and a black woman and is confused about his true identity. He also wonders if he would share the same fate of his mother and father and yearns to know where he really belongs to. The poem also depicts two realities in life which are discrimination and racism. Basically, the poem suggests that if these two did not exist, the speaker would not have to long for acceptance and would not have to search for his identity.

Effect of Phototherapy on Sleep Disorders

Effect of Phototherapy on Sleep Disorders In the natural world, the light – dark cycle entrains our rhythm. Light is a very effective ‘Zeitgeber’. In the presences of environmental time cues, sleep-wake physiology, and gene expression continue to exhibit a near-24-hour circadian rhythm regulated by the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus in the Hypothalamus. Phototherapy is an accepted modality for non- pharmacological management of Circadian Disorders such as Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome, Insomnia etc. This review discusses the physiological principle and highlights evidence based literature of phototherapy and its management in Sleep Disorders. Introduction; Living organism’s exhibit a biological periodicity, this rhythm when occurs on a 24 hour cycle is known as ‘Circadian Rhythm’. A rhythmic biological cycle that displays an endogenous entrainable oscillation of less than 24 hours in known as ultradian rhythm. and that last for more than 24 hours is known as Infradian rhythms. Circadian Rhythms generate rhythmic cycling of sleep patterns, food intake, sexual behavior, core body temperature and secretion release of hormones such as ACTH, Prolactin, Gonadotorophin and Melatonin. Circadian Rhythms are generated by the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN) of the Anterobasal Hypothalamus. Pineal gland regulates the rhythmic production and release of melatonin. The duration, phase and amplitude of melatonin and cortisol secretion, are influenced by changes in light-dark cycles. The plasma levels are low during day time and are high at night. This rhythm is maintained by the SCN and is entrained by the light-dark cycle. Low light intensities like 100 to 500 lux also have been shown to suppressed levels of melatonin. Phototherapy or light therapy utilizes light boxes which are typically LED square bright lights, ranging from 8-12 x 12-24 inches that emit 10,000 Lux (highest Lux) light, cool color temperature light acts as natural sunlight without the harmful effect of UV rays. This mode of entraining the sleep wake cycle is an accepted modality and mainstay treatment in the non-pharmacotherpeutic management of Circadian Rhythm Disorders. Principles of Phototherapy The goal of the Circadian Rhythm is to maintain a bridge between sleep patterns and the internal clock that is set at a optimally synchronized time. This results in a normal sleep-wake pattern. The Biological Model-Phase response curve The Phase Response curve is modulated by two efficacious modalities i.e. light and melatonin, both of which are exploited to entrain the circadian cycle. Bright light is very helpful in synchronizing the human rhythms and the melatonin serves as a ‘‘dark pulse’’ helping to induce night-time behaviors. Bright morning light advances circadian rhythms; bright evening light delays them. Melatonin in the evening advances circadian rhythms; melatonin in the morning delays them. Circadian Disturbances and Insulin Resistance Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a multifactorial disorder, of which Circadian Disturbances is one of the lifestyle factors that contribute to it. Sleepdisturbances including sleep insufficiency, sleep loss, sleep fragmentation, are connected to abnormal Glucose Metabolism and thus, increase the risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Studies in rodent models suggest that disruption of Circadian Rhythms leads to impaired glucose homeostasis and beta-cell failure, culminating in increased susceptibility to Type 2DM. Disturbed Circadian Rhythm is causative factor in the recent epidemic â€Å"Obesity†. In controlled clinical studies, acute 1-3 week circadian misalignment (alone) or in combination with sleep restriction results in dysregulation of glucose homeostasis and consequent glucose intolerance attributed in part to loss of beta-cell function as well as decline in insulin sensitivity. CIRCADIAN RHYTHM PROBLEM CONTRIBUTES TO INFLAMMATORY DISEASES. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohns disease (CD), is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory disorder of the intestinal tract. Study says that sleep disturbances are one of the main reasons of pathogenesis of the patients with IBD. In addition melatonin plays a vital role in regulation of inflammation as well as immune system and antioxidant system in the intestinal disorders. (16, 17) CIRCADIAN RHYTHM and visually Impaired Bright light has been shown to suppress Melatonin secretion even in visually impaired subjects which substantiates the fact that non-visual photoreceptors in the eye mediate the Circadian Rhythm regulating effects of light CIRCADIAN RHYTHM AND IMMUNITY Sleep restriction and sleep deficit increase your vulnerability to disease. The immune system is connected to the sleep regulatory system and actions of the immune system to fight disease.Sleep is regulated partly by immune system components called cytokines. Blood counts of T-cells and levels of proinflammatory cytokines are high during the night while leukocytes and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 go up during daytime. Changes in the immune system seem associated with the onset of narcolepsy, which has a neurological cause (brain cell death) inflammatory diseases increase cytokine levels and make people feel fatigued. This is a good thing during a short-term injury or illness, as it drives the person to rest. For those with chronic inflammation, however, the immune system keeps them tired for long periods, which may explain symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue disorder. The trouble in sleeping that people with those conditions experience is not due to just the discomforts of the illnesses, but because the sleep regulation system is affected. The different phases of sleep are responsible for different functions within our bodies. The first and second phases involve settling in, resulting in rhythmic breathing and a lowered body temperature. The third and fourth stages are when our bodies are working to restore themselves. During this time our muscles relax and the blood supply going to them increases. Our bodies use this time to repair tissue damage and grow new tissue. Important hormones are released and our energy is renewed. These stages appear to be a critical factor in maintaining a healthy immune system and any sleep disturbance that impacts them, impacts our health. It is becoming increasingly evident that disruption of daily rhythms, such as from sleep deprivation, affects the immune response. Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), is an immune system protein that can sense bacterial and viral DNA Role of Phototherapy Cognitive Impact Light intensity has a direct impact on cognitive performance and alertness and on the subjective feeling of sleepiness. The researchers found that volunteers subjected to higher light intensity during the afternoon were more alert all the way into the early evening than those who were not. But when subjected to light intensity 10 times weaker, they showed signs of sleepiness and obtained lower scores on the memory tests. Artificial light is used to phase shift circadian rhythm and help improve performance, sleep, and well-being during shiftwork simulations , this was proved in study designed for NASA personals during t he prelaunch week. The treated subjects were self exposed to 10, 000 Lux. The treated personnel showed a positive result reporting better sleep, performance, and physical and emotional well-being than control subjects and rated the treatment as highly effective for promoting adjustment to their work schedules for the study. Nocturnal alertness, performance, and daytime sleep could be improved by light exposure of tolerable intensity and duration in a real work place. This was proved in a cross-over design study conducted on 12 night Shift nurses with three different treatment procedures: Room Light (RL) exposure in the night followed by a 1hr sunlight or 10,000 lux light next morning(08:30 to 09:30), Bright Light (BL) a 4-hour nocturnal light exposure of 4,000-6,000 lux (from 01:00 to 05:00) and Bright Light with Sunglasses (BL/S) the same nocturnal light exposure as in BL was done with light attenuation in the morning. Nocturnal alertness was measured by a visual analog scale. Daytime sleep was recorded with actigraphy. Nocturnal alertness was the highest in the BL/S. The improvement was maximized by attenuating morning light. Sun-Downing phenomenon Sundowning is a clinical phenomenon characterized by the emergence or increment of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, anxiety, agitation, aggression, pacing, wandering, resistance to redirect screaming, yelling and so forth observed late afternoon, evening or at night and occurs among cognitively impaired, demented, or institutionalized elderly patients. In a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial the effects of bright light therapy combined with melatonin on motor restless behavior in demented patients had been evaluated. This study concluded that bright light therapy (10,000 lux bright light) has a positive effect on motor restlessness in subjects with dementia. Mood disturbances Manic-Depressive Illness (MDP): MDP is recurrent illness in which episodes of Mania and Depression occur and remit spontaneously. Several clinical studies say that disturbance in the Circadian Rhythms play a crucial role in its pathophysiology. Melatonin secretion shows abnormal levels in some bipolar patients (MDP). Patients with MDP exhibit circadian sleep wake rhythm in which patients spent one complete sleepless night in between two nights of normal sleep. In a study, 143 patients with a major depressive episode in the course of bipolar disorder (DSM-IV criteria) treatment with 3 consecutive totalsleepdeprivation cycle (each composed of a period of 36 hours awake followed by recovery sleep), light therapy, and lithium rapidly decreased the depressive suicidality and prompt antidepressant response in patients with drug-resistant major depression in the course of bipolar disorder. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is typically characterized by instability and impaired behaviour , affectivity, interpersonal relations and lifestyle. This open study assessed 13 female patients for the effectiveness of the application of bright light (10,000 lux, 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. for 6 weeks) added to SSRIs in drug-resistant depressed patients with comorbid BPD who did not show any improvement to 6-week administration of antidepressants. The participants were regularly evaluated using the CGI, HAMD and MADRS scales and the BDI and BDI self-report inventories. All the assessments proved that the application of Bright light leads to a significant improvement. SAD: Phototherapy acts through Retinal Melatonin or Rhodopsin, which regulates Dopamine release in the eye where it acts as the main neurotransmitter. The retina-SCNvpineal gland forms a link, which is disturbed in SAD. By suppressing retinal Melatonin, Phototherapy has been suggested to correct the underlying biochemical abnormality seen in SAD and thereby inducing clinical remission.In Non- Demented people, light therapy is an accepted and validated treatment for seasonal affective disorder, but has also been reported to be effective in Non –Seasonal Depression (15). Recently it has been noted that exposure of SAD patients to natural sunlight in the morning hours resulted in complete remission of depressive symptoms. In the study, N=24(12 SAD patients and 12 controls) were exposed to morning light therapy in the winter and the melatonin profiles being sensitive to light were measured before and after treatment. The SAD Patients showed a phase advance of melatonin rhythms in response to phototherapy which showed an association between phase position and phase shift in the SAD patients. This instability may be secondary to impaired serotoninergic function in the afferent pathways to the suprachiasmatic nuclei. This seems to be a significant advancement in the etiology of SAD that links light with Mood Disorders. In Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common when vitamin D stores are typically low. wavelengths between 280-320 nm which are Broad-spectrum light therapy that allow the skin to produce vitamin D. In a prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted N=15 subjects with SAD (8 subjects-100,000 I.U. of vitamin D and 7 subjects–phototherapy). At the onset of treatment and after 1 month of therapy subjects different depression scale were administered. Vitamin D status improved in both groups (74% vitamin D group, p ADHD Morning bright light therapy is associated helps reduce both subjective and objective measures of core ADHD pathology, improves mood symptoms, and phase advance in circadian preference. Multiple regressions showed that the shift toward an earlier circadian preference with LT was the strongest predictor of improvement on both subjective and objective ADHD measures. In the Elderly The risk of developing depression increases with old age. The occurrence of a major depressive episode in Alzheimer’s disease is as high as 20-25%and minor depressive symptoms occur in an additional 20-30% (9, 10). In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, patients with early Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Subjective Memory Complaints (SMC)(N=79, Age = between 50 75). Patients were exposed to ~10,000 lux for two years, the active condition or ~300 lux in the placebo condition, daily, for two half-hour sessions at fixed times in the morning and evening. Neuropsychological, behavioral, physiological and endocrine measures are assessed at baseline and follow-up every five to six months. The evaluation showed long-term daily bright light prevented worsening of sleep-wake rhythms and depressive symptoms in elderly people with memory complaints. Elderly experience increased difficulties with sleeping, and thus could be one of the contributing factor for mood problems.(11) Factors contributing in Aging process Aging process | | Impaired Ocular light transmission due to age related eye deficiencies | | Requires high demand of light intensities inorder to maintain a sufficient input to SCN | | Diminished SCN input | | Arrhythmia in the Sleep Wake cycle Studies report that it is possible to reactivate the SCN and improve ‘Sleep –Wake Rhythm’ by applying extra light. Light therapy provides a safe treatment option (13).It’s reported that, bright light therapy is decreasing common health issues (14). In 10 Alzheimers patients with sundowning behavior and sleep disturbances were studied for a week who received 2 hours/day of exposure to bright light between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. The results showed that the proportion of total daily activity occurring during the nighttime decreased during the light-treatment week. The relative amplitude of the circadian locomotor activity rhythm, a measure of its stability, increased during the light-treatment week. This kind of effect mediated through a chronobiological mechanism. Artificial light is used to phase shift circadian rhythm and help improve performance, sleep, and well-being during shiftwork simulations , this was proved in study designed for NASA personals during t he prelaunch week. The treated subjects were self exposed to 10, 000 Lux. The treated personnel showed a positive result reporting better sleep, performance, and physical and emotional well-being than control subjects and rated the treatment as highly effective for promoting adjustment to their work schedules for the study. In study bright light exposure improved sleep quality in 7-18% subjects, the study consisted of 13 interventional studies with 1154 participants. Jet lag causes distress to the number of travelers impairing sleep, mood and cognitive performance. Timed exposure to bright light and melatonin administration can help to reduce symptoms. Specific recommendations using bright light and melatonin for eastward and westward travel before and after departure are provided for time zone changes of up to 6, 7–9 and 10 or more hours. Timed bright light and melatonin administration, by helping to adjust underlying circadian rhythms to the new time zone, can serve to mitigate the symptoms of jet lag. Reducingthe symptoms of jet lag by this methods can lessen the mood, cognitive and behavioral symptoms resulting from these desynchronized rhythms.(

Paideia of Nihil of Reliabilty of Existing and Paideia of Nihil of Truth of Being :: Philosophy

Paideia of "Nihil of Reliabilty of Existing" and Paideia of "Nihil of Truth of Being" ABSTRACT: This paper traces the transformation of the idea of Paideia as an intellectual mode of existence and being in Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the modern period to the idea of Paideia as an intellectual mode of the nihil that is oriented toward the future. It comments specifically on the ideas of Leibniz and Heidegger which have contributed to this development. Our understanding of Paideia is multiple-valued. One can think about it as about medicine, and as about goodness, and cultivation of justice in the state (governors, guards, citizens, women and children). Paideia practically includes all sides of culture. One can argue up the definition for a long time. Let consider classics.(1) Namely in Greek Platon's Paideia (IV ad.) classical problem of the possibility and borders of different attempts to improve life of the person was put forward. And this happened in conditions, when relations, traditionally seemed stable, between ideas of "Existence" and "Being", "Reliability" and "Truth" and finally of constantly breaking in our life unintelligible ("external" and at the same time "internal") forces, which opens themselves to us as "Nothing" or, in other interpretation, as "Nihil", are changing drastically. Lets try to consider specifics of an inconsistent condition of Paideia at present through a prism of concepts of the end a XX century peo ple about "Nihil – Nothing". What does such a consideration give from the point of view of understanding of possibility somehow to influence on the objective processes of "educating training" and of "training education".(2) The complete name of this article should sound as: "Duality of Leibniz's understanding of "Nihil of Reliability of Existing" in comparison with duality of Heidegger's understanding of "Nihil of Truth of Being" in struggle of philosophical ideas when trying to understand a problem of inconsistency "con-crete" (total specific) "self-development – self-creativity – self-creation" of Paideia "in a whole" "now-and-here" "in this person" today". Understanding of "Nihil of Reliability of Existing" by Leibniz turns to be the representation of understanding "Nihil of Truth of Being" by Heidegger. Understanding of this "Nihil" by the last is only a special case of variety of representations of "Nothing – Nihil" in the deconstructed world of phil osophical thought of our days. I About some preliminary theoretical (conceptual-terminological) remarks, that will allow to specify philosophical aspect of the analysis. It is supposed that the basic concepts are either rather well known, or their development can be found in other work of the author.

Life Goes On Essay

Life experiences bring knowledge to people. Having a lot of good and bad experiences helps us improve our way of thinking; it opens our minds and teaches us unforgettable lessons about life, lessons that we have to apply in the future. My parents taught me to be independent and self-motivated by providing me opportunities to learn by trial and error. I was given a remarkable amount of freedom at a young age. When I was 6, my parents bought me an old computer for $25 from a local yard sale with the intention of letting me loose on it . I was thrilled .Motivated by curiosity. I delved into it at once and learned how to use each and every feature of the computer. My intellectual curiosity is the result of a unique combination of early influences and childhood experiences which have fueled my passion for learning inside and outside of the classroom—learning from everything I do . I hope to apply this curiosity to all aspects of my life. I have lived such a life experience in my last high school year. Along with 12th grade and turning up eighteen years old, I was going to become independent, ‘on my own feet’ as some would say. Time has taught me how to take fast decisions. Some of them were bad decisions, some were good. It was a very difficult period for me, as I was forced to fight against time, stress, hidden emotions and most important, I had to choose the road to follow for my career. The final exam was a hard challenge. There were times I felt I would quit; times of weakness when I searched peace in a cigarette without thinking it can make me dependent, all these times I was teaching a great lesson: maturity! I realized I wasn’t a kid anymore and that my own destiny can be influenced by a simple decision. This experience made me learn what truly means making sacrifices for achieving your goals. I gave up to my free time to replace it with hard working, interminable tiredness and meditations. It wasn’t an easy sacrifice, as desperation said her word in some moments. But the most important thing is the positive lesson it taught me, that is, never gives up fighting, no matter what happens because there is a hope for everything in life, and loosing it doesn’t bring you close to your goals. I have lost some of my friends for being able to reach on top, and this thing taught me what true friendship really meant and that some people we see as friends can turn out to be our worst enemies. To me, change is something new and you experience changes throughout your life. However, I learnt that telling everything about yourself can only bring bad things,  because you can never know how a relationship can turn out between people. I can say I found myself again in this last high school year, rediscovered my ambition and passion for the things I do.

Difference Between Independent and Dependent Variables

Difference Between Independent and Dependent Variables The two main variables in an experiment are the independent and dependent variable. An independent variable is the variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test the effects on the dependent variable. A dependent variable is the variable being tested and measured  in a scientific experiment. The dependent variable is dependent on the independent variable. As the experimenter changes the independent variable, the effect on the dependent variable is observed and recorded. Independent and Dependent Variable Example For example, a scientist wants to see if the brightness of light has any effect on a moth being attracted to the light. The brightness of the light  is controlled by the scientist. This would be the independent variable. How the moth reacts to the different light levels (distance to light source)  would be the dependent variable. How to Tell the Variables Apart The independent and dependent variables may be viewed in terms of cause and effect. If the independent variable is changed, then an effect is seen in the dependent variable. Remember, the values of both variables may change in an experiment and are recorded. The difference is that the value of the independent variable is controlled by the experimenter, while the value of the dependent variable only changes in response to the independent variable. Remembering Variables With DRYMIX When results are plotted in graphs, the convention is to use the independent variable as the x-axis and the dependent variable as the y-axis. The DRY MIX acronym can help keep the variables straight: D is the dependent variableR is the responding variableY is the axis on which the dependent or responding variable is graphed (the vertical axis) M is the manipulated variable or the one that is changed in an experimentI is the independent variableX is the axis on which the independent or manipulated variable is graphed (the horizontal axis) Independent vs Dependent Variable Key Takeaways The independent and dependent variables are the two key variables in a science experiment.The independent variable is the one the experimenter controls. The dependent variable is the variable that changes in response to the independent variable.The two variables may be related by cause and effect. If the independent variable changes, then the dependent variable is affected. Sources Carlson, Robert. A concrete introduction to real analysis. CRC Press, 2006. p.183.Dodge, Y. (2003) The Oxford Dictionary of Statistical Terms, OUP. ISBN 0-19-920613-9Everitt, B. S. (2002). The Cambridge Dictionary of Statistics (2nd ed.). Cambridge UP. ISBN 0-521-81099-X.

Sun Yat-Sen essays

Sun Yat-Sen essays Sun Yat-Sen helped the growth of Nationalism during the early 20th century. After experiencing and studying in Hawaii, he got a taste of what the western world was like. Sun wanted to help westernize China to keep up with the worlds technology and economy. His goal was to nationalize China. He also wanted to aid in reforming the social problems China was facing. He started groups to revolutionize China and overthrow the rule of the Qing dynasty. Sun Yat-Sen traveled all over the world to hide from the officials of the Qing dynasty and to gain funds for his Chinese Revolutionary Army. In 1911, the revolution occurred and Sun became the president of The Republic of China. He was mainly interested in, integrating ethnic minorities, enhancing welfare needs of the poor, promoting womens rights, and opposing the archaic practice of footbinding. Yet, Sun was unsuccessful with his dreams for China, he did some writing for a democratic, government. He had three principles that he wanted his followers to carry on after he died. The three principles consisted of Nationalism, Democracy, and Livelihood. Sun was important in the 20th century for his work in trying to incorporate colonialism and imperialism in his China. Suns plans were implemented in Taiwan and credit was given to him for his three principles. Though it was not implemented in China, China is now considering applying Suns three principles to unify China. ...

psych essays

psych essays The five journal articles I examined were all from a journal titled Developmental Psychology, May 2000. The first journal article that I observed was Sleep Patterns and Sleep Disruptions in School-Aged Children. This study assessed the sleep patterns, sleep disruptions, and sleepiness of school-age children. Sleep patterns of 140 children (72 boys and 68 girls; 2nd-, 4th-, and 6th-grade students) were evaluated with activity monitors (actigraphs). In addition, the children and their parents completed complementary sleep questionnaires and daily reports. The findings reflected significant age differences, indicating that older children have more delayed sleep onset times and increased reported daytime sleepiness. Girls were found to spend more time in sleep and to have an increased percentage of motionless sleep. Fragmented sleep was found in 18% of the children. No age differences were found in any of the sleep quality measures. Scores on objective sleep measures were associated with subjective reports of sleepiness. Family stress, parental age, and parental education were related to the child's sleep-wake measures. The next article I observed was Shared Caregiving: Comparisons Between Home and Child-Care Settings. The experiences of 84 German toddlers (12-24 months old) who were either enrolled or not enrolled in child care were described with observational checklists from the time they woke up until they went to bed. The total amount of care experienced over the course of a weekday by 35 pairs of toddlers (1 member of each pair in child care, 1 member not) did not differ according to whether the toddlers spent time in child care. Although the child-care toddlers received lower levels of care from care providers in the centers, their mothers engaged them in more social interactions during non-working hours than did the mothers of home-only ...

Personal Bankruptcy and Financial Literacy Essay

Personal Bankruptcy and Financial Literacy - Essay Example The management of the companies should know the implications of the finance to be a successful player in the market. On of the most important measures in the development of the companies is the profit of the company. Therefore, it is imperative for the business to be financially literate. It has become an important subject at individual level after the recession. One of the most important components in the economy is the financial market. Financial Education is needed for the individuals and the organizations in the world to understand the concepts and rationales behind the financial products in the market. They also require recognizing the risks involved with the products so that they can leverage the risk when required. Financial education engulfs education about the financial products and the economy with the help of the charts and the data analysis, which help the companies and the individuals to analyze the market more carefully. (OECD, 26-27). This leads to the development of t he economy in general. The individuals and the companies can take the advantage of a situation in the economy if they are well acquainted with the financial education. After the recession, a major trend in the market was the bankruptcy. The bankruptcy for a company or an individual is a condition when the person or the company is unable to pay the debts. The regulatory authority of the country gives the company or the individual the support to pay off the debts by taking over the assets. (Blum, 337). The importance of bankruptcy has increased in the aftermath of the recession as many companies and individuals took the shelter of the law, as they were unable to pay off the debts. The bankruptcy has a negative effect on the economy of the country in the case of the companies. The companies provide many individuals with jobs and with the closure the unemployment problem rise. However, in the case of the individuals, the bankruptcy

HRM Assignment 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

HRM Assignment 1 - Essay Example Hence, all aspects of human resource tend to yield divergent approach. The paper will reveal such divergence in a detailed manner. Human resource is considered to be one of the most important assets for an organization and hence human resource management is a crucial aspect for all organizations operating in the competitive business framework. The function of human resource management is designed in such a way that it leads to maximize the performance of employees and concentrates on minimizing the issues arises out of organizational context regarding decision making, performance appraisal and reward system, communications, wage rate and many more. In 1989, John Storey had identified two distinct forms of human resource management such that Hard and Soft HRM. Hard HRM may be defined as an employee management system that considers workers as a resource that requires be controlling and closely supervising in order to maximise employee performance, ascertain profitability and achieve competitive advantage. In contrast, Storey defined soft human resource management as a system that considers human resource as an im portant factor for achieving organizational effectiveness and hence strives for skill enrichment of existing employees (Storey, 2007). In this paper, the dissimilation between hard and soft HRM will be critically analysed on the basis of employer attitude towards the workers, value of the employees in the organization, level of communication, extent of delegation of authorities and decision making power, transparency in payment and performance appraisal system and above all, organizational structure and leadership style. Though there is no single connotation regarding the appropriateness of hard or soft HRM in an organizational framework, comparative analysis can be drawn for each attributes of human resource

Management in Nursing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Management in Nursing - Essay Example Sundry Issues on Nurse Managers’ Leadership / Management Styles: Reflective Essay There has been a distinction cited between leadership and management. In particular, it has been noted that leadership is just one of the numerous desirable facets that a manager ought to have. The eventual goal of a manager is to optimize the productivity of the firm through effective administration. To carry this out, the manager must effectively carry out the functions of organizing, planning, staffing, directing, and controlling. Thus, leadership is said to only be a single aspect of the directing role. Moreover, Predpall (1994) suggests that senior management must manifest profound involvement and be a role model; such involvement by senior management cannot be delegated. There are several noteworthy issues which I have had the opportunity to reflect on during the course of my clinical placement. My insights were analyzed in light of the different leadership styles, and the strategies employed by each nurse manager who exhibited the style. The first leadership style, that of the autocrat, leads through the use of unilaterism to achieve one objective. This style, on the whole, requires that the leader exert constant pressure and directing from the leader to accomplish results. In addition, a prevalent outcome is submissive resistance from subordinates.

Recruitment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Recruitment - Essay Example It is significant to recruit individuals with necessary talents, credentials and capability in order to comprehend the purposes of an organization. Thus, it is important that managers keep in mind the present and future needs of the organization in the process of recruitment. Fruitful recruitment approaches comprise of a systematic examination of the job and the labor market situations. Recruitment is almost central to any procedure of management and failure in recruitment can develop complications for any organization such as adverse impact on its productivity and unsuitable stages of employment or abilities. Inadequate recruitment can result into shortages in labor, or even complications in decision making in management. Nevertheless, recruitment is not just an easy selection procedure. It also needs decision making of the management and wide preparation to hire the most appropriate human labor. Competition amid business organizations for recruiting the best potential has increased concentration on invention, as well as management decision making. The recruiters target at recruiting only the greatest applicants who would outfit the business values, morals and climate definite to the organization. Recruitment process does not end with application and selection of the suitable individuals, but includes preserving and holding the workers selected. Regardless of a well-designed plan on recruitment and selection, as well as involvement of competent management team, recruitment can encounter weighty hindrances in execution. Theories of human resource management may offer understandings on the best methods to recruitment although organizations will have to use their internal management abilities to apply universal concepts within exact organizational settings; recruitment has the main purpose of providing a pool of potentially competent job applicants. Researchers argue that recruitment models do not exist in seclusion. Present inducements to create them depend on t he probabilistic prediction of future vicious circle and scientific developments of accurate management alternatives (Martin & Jackson 2005, p. 90). Good recruitment models significantly enhance the capability of managers to make well-versed policy decisions. There are various categories of recruitment models; for instance, there is retained search model where a hiring professional works exclusively for a particular need and payment is separated into two sections. In addition, exclusive requirement model demands that the recruiter assures the client to close the vacancy within specific time. However, in case he fails to close the vacancy by the time, he or she should either close the position with slighter charge or accept some other fine. The most significant model that is currently preferred by many organizations includes the recruitment process outsourcing. This is because in this model, the recruitment process outsourcing partner is accountable for closing all needs (Torrington, Hall & Taylor 2008, p. 59). The partners are responsible for the entire recruitment process starting from sourcing, scheduling, interviews, and selecting. This is a benefit to the organization because it does not have to manage its own recruitment group, thus cost reductions. However, in order to avoid or reduce any risks that may occur because of this model, it is vital that organizations take precaution in the process of selecting recruitment partners. This is for

Article Review #1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Article Review #1 - Essay Example The independent variables were interpersonal-based service encounter and technology-based service encounter, while the dependent variables were brand loyalty and online purchase. The author applied The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model in predicting the behavioral intention of online purchases. The literature review is considered exhaustive, since it provided studies that explore the components, which impact consumer viewpoint perceptions of quality encounters, such as friendliness and display of proper emotions. It also mentioned studies that determined the relationship between service encounter satisfaction and repeat purchase intentions. From here, the author hypothesized that a positive customer encounter can motivate customers to use a hotel’s online reservation option. After that, the author connected studies that link satisfaction and brand loyalty and developed the second hypothesis from there. For two more hypotheses, the author identified the relationship between technology-based and interpersonal-relationship based encounters and brand loyalty. Finally, the author connected studies that built the relationship between brand loyalty and the intention to purchase services online. The research design followed the quantitative approach, with 2000 questionnaires distributed in 270 hotels. The response rate was 26.9% or 538, which is quite low. After eliminating incomplete replies, only 505 results were chosen. The hotels included international and national franchise hotels, as well as independent ones. The author improved the validity of this instrument through pre-testing and gathering insight from experts. Twenty tourists were used to pre-test the survey instrument. Factor analysis is applied, which is considered appropriate for the research, since it studied underlying data patterns. The findings adequately discussed if

TRADOC Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

TRADOC - Essay Example Indeed, it must be realized that in order to realize its mission, there must be a proper integration of the activities of TRADOC. Considering that the mission of the Command revolves around training, it is imperative to note that this training is geared towards creating effective formations that can help address the overall mission objectives of the US Army (TRADOC 2012) . TRADOC also has an objective of ensuring the Army is guided through doctrine. This is a very important objective especially in the disciplined forces. It is often realized that many people in the Army fail to understand much of the doctrine that guide their operations. In this respects, challenges often abound. In line with TRADOC’s missions of designing a capable and versatile US Army, this objective is definitely a proper way of ensuring the compliance with the law. TRADOC also seeks to develop very adaptive leaders both drawn from soldiers and civilians. Indeed, as a training unit, TRADOC seeks to transfo rm not only the army but civilians as well. It therefore extends its training in order to create a population that understands and appreciates the important role of the Army. Through proper leadership, it is expected that the mission of TRADOC will be achieved across the board as people will share much of the information obtained from the Command. As a training Command, the core objective of TRADOC is therefore to recruit and train solders and to provide various ways that support unit training. In this respect, TRADOC oversees Army school across the country which train over 500,000 soldiers and service members yearly. The training is always made to reflect the changing times and this call for much innovation and agility. In this case, the trainees are always suited to serve in both times of peace and war. All these objectives outlined above certainly have various measures to ensure they are effectively achieved. With respect to building and integrating the various formations, one me asurement aspect can be a united and cohesive Army and proper coexistence between the Army and the civilians. It is often realized that a lack of integration of the various units presents many challenges in administration. Such a measurement would therefore be effective in gauging the effectiveness of the training in this respect. As regards civilian training, one measurement metric can involve conducting a survey on the civilians to determine whether they understand the imperatives of Army training and the need to appreciate the role of the Army in the society. Lastly, with respect to overall training, measurement is achieved by the quality of the various Army commands and whether they realize their particular objectives. For instance their performance in war or in peacetime activities such as natural calamities can effectively provide an insight on their effectiveness DePuy, W. E., (Swain, Gilmore & Conway, 2000). Considering that the focus of TRADOC is essentially training, the e xpected level of performance or target is the lack of any challenges in operations with respect to the various formations. On civilian training, the target is the achievement is a cohesive coexistence between the solders and the civilians. In terms of general training, the target is professionalism and excellence in terms of performance at all times (King & Demsey, 2008). In order to ensure a successful

Recruitment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Recruitment - Essay Example It is significant to recruit individuals with necessary talents, credentials and capability in order to comprehend the purposes of an organization. Thus, it is important that managers keep in mind the present and future needs of the organization in the process of recruitment. Fruitful recruitment approaches comprise of a systematic examination of the job and the labor market situations. Recruitment is almost central to any procedure of management and failure in recruitment can develop complications for any organization such as adverse impact on its productivity and unsuitable stages of employment or abilities. Inadequate recruitment can result into shortages in labor, or even complications in decision making in management. Nevertheless, recruitment is not just an easy selection procedure. It also needs decision making of the management and wide preparation to hire the most appropriate human labor. Competition amid business organizations for recruiting the best potential has increased concentration on invention, as well as management decision making. The recruiters target at recruiting only the greatest applicants who would outfit the business values, morals and climate definite to the organization. Recruitment process does not end with application and selection of the suitable individuals, but includes preserving and holding the workers selected. Regardless of a well-designed plan on recruitment and selection, as well as involvement of competent management team, recruitment can encounter weighty hindrances in execution. Theories of human resource management may offer understandings on the best methods to recruitment although organizations will have to use their internal management abilities to apply universal concepts within exact organizational settings; recruitment has the main purpose of providing a pool of potentially competent job applicants. Researchers argue that recruitment models do not exist in seclusion. Present inducements to create them depend on t he probabilistic prediction of future vicious circle and scientific developments of accurate management alternatives (Martin & Jackson 2005, p. 90). Good recruitment models significantly enhance the capability of managers to make well-versed policy decisions. There are various categories of recruitment models; for instance, there is retained search model where a hiring professional works exclusively for a particular need and payment is separated into two sections. In addition, exclusive requirement model demands that the recruiter assures the client to close the vacancy within specific time. However, in case he fails to close the vacancy by the time, he or she should either close the position with slighter charge or accept some other fine. The most significant model that is currently preferred by many organizations includes the recruitment process outsourcing. This is because in this model, the recruitment process outsourcing partner is accountable for closing all needs (Torrington, Hall & Taylor 2008, p. 59). The partners are responsible for the entire recruitment process starting from sourcing, scheduling, interviews, and selecting. This is a benefit to the organization because it does not have to manage its own recruitment group, thus cost reductions. However, in order to avoid or reduce any risks that may occur because of this model, it is vital that organizations take precaution in the process of selecting recruitment partners. This is for

TRADOC Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

TRADOC - Essay Example Indeed, it must be realized that in order to realize its mission, there must be a proper integration of the activities of TRADOC. Considering that the mission of the Command revolves around training, it is imperative to note that this training is geared towards creating effective formations that can help address the overall mission objectives of the US Army (TRADOC 2012) . TRADOC also has an objective of ensuring the Army is guided through doctrine. This is a very important objective especially in the disciplined forces. It is often realized that many people in the Army fail to understand much of the doctrine that guide their operations. In this respects, challenges often abound. In line with TRADOC’s missions of designing a capable and versatile US Army, this objective is definitely a proper way of ensuring the compliance with the law. TRADOC also seeks to develop very adaptive leaders both drawn from soldiers and civilians. Indeed, as a training unit, TRADOC seeks to transfo rm not only the army but civilians as well. It therefore extends its training in order to create a population that understands and appreciates the important role of the Army. Through proper leadership, it is expected that the mission of TRADOC will be achieved across the board as people will share much of the information obtained from the Command. As a training Command, the core objective of TRADOC is therefore to recruit and train solders and to provide various ways that support unit training. In this respect, TRADOC oversees Army school across the country which train over 500,000 soldiers and service members yearly. The training is always made to reflect the changing times and this call for much innovation and agility. In this case, the trainees are always suited to serve in both times of peace and war. All these objectives outlined above certainly have various measures to ensure they are effectively achieved. With respect to building and integrating the various formations, one me asurement aspect can be a united and cohesive Army and proper coexistence between the Army and the civilians. It is often realized that a lack of integration of the various units presents many challenges in administration. Such a measurement would therefore be effective in gauging the effectiveness of the training in this respect. As regards civilian training, one measurement metric can involve conducting a survey on the civilians to determine whether they understand the imperatives of Army training and the need to appreciate the role of the Army in the society. Lastly, with respect to overall training, measurement is achieved by the quality of the various Army commands and whether they realize their particular objectives. For instance their performance in war or in peacetime activities such as natural calamities can effectively provide an insight on their effectiveness DePuy, W. E., (Swain, Gilmore & Conway, 2000). Considering that the focus of TRADOC is essentially training, the e xpected level of performance or target is the lack of any challenges in operations with respect to the various formations. On civilian training, the target is the achievement is a cohesive coexistence between the solders and the civilians. In terms of general training, the target is professionalism and excellence in terms of performance at all times (King & Demsey, 2008). In order to ensure a successful

Applied Criminal Justice Ethics Essay Example for Free

Applied Criminal Justice Ethics Essay My interviewee was Commander Hamry, of the Milton police department in Washington. When interviewing Commander Hamry, I found the following to be his impressions of the police force in general: Why are ethics and character so important in the field of law enforcement? Because we represent everything we believe in, not only in local and state law, but the Constitution of the United States. We are part law enforcement, lawyer, priest, counselor, mother/father figure etcat any given moment. We have a nano-second to decide whether or not to shoot whereas everyone else has months/years to decide if that action was proper or not. Due to an elevated level of training and discipline, we are held to a higher standard. This includes: morals, ethics, actions/decisions which the public has entrusted its care to us which go back to the issues when the tea was first thrown into the harbor. Do the interviewees feel that police are more ethical today, or were they more ethical ten years ago? Due to immediate access of public information and technology, the magnification of the microscope has been increased. However, that is something that evolves with public perception, the legal system, etc where something that was common place and ethical 100 years ago would not be considered today. People are basically good and the basic Judeo/Christian principle upon which our system is founded has remained, for the most part, unchanged. Why do police officers become involved in misconduct? To over simplify the answer, because they are human. They make mistakes like anyone else or experience temptations in which they cannot or choose not to handle. No different than the clerk who pockets a dollar when no one is looking. Do the interviewees feel that there is enough training offered in ethics at the police academy level? If not, why is that? Ethics are like character building and/or common sense. It evolves with experience and upbringing. How would you teach common sense or character? However, a strong emphasis IS placed on ethics in the law enforcement academies, but the basic concept and belief in such values has to be present to start with. Those that dont develop the concept strong enough should be weeded out during the background phase of the hiring process. People can change and develop a stronger sense of ethics (I believe) as to the examples set by those they are influenced by or choose to be influenced by. Should ethics training be offered as an ongoing process for law enforcement officers? Yes, and I believe it will remain an integral part of the basic academy program. Do the interviewees feel that education and/or training in ethics would reduce incidents of police corruption? Yes and No. The elevated awareness may make them think about it more. But it is also a lifestyle and belief in the basic system that we work within. This is no different than being asked to go out and enforce laws that we do not either believe in, or question. We dont make the laws, we merely enforce those that the people have asked to be on the books and thus should act the same. Being within law enforcement is like living in a fish bowl. You are always under the scrutiny of the public perception on and off duty. You are judged by how your kids act in school, to how you look or what you do when you go to town.

Sustainability In Discount Retailing at Wal Mart

Sustainability In Discount Retailing at Wal Mart Porter (2002) states that root of the problem lies in the lack of distinguishing between operation effectiveness and strategy. The expedition for productivity, quality and speed has resulted in management tools and techniques, total quality management benchmarking, time based competition, outsourcing, partnering, reengineering, change management. In any organization, strategy management is the key to its success. There are many theories based on this assumption that without a proper strategy and planning, it is difficult for any industry to survive irrespective of its size. It is necessary to understand here that all the major corporate organizations have established themselves, thanks to superior strategic planning and implementation. The retail industry is making news everywhere with not only the traditional industries increasing their outlets but some major corporate industries also intruding into this industry like Fresh @ Reliance of Reliance Industries, More of Aditya Birla Gro up in India. Wal-Mart, a US based retail industry, which is known as the giant in the retail industry has survived and is still the huge enterprise in the world which deals with almost all the FB products, apparels, etc. It is not only the largest company in world but also the largest company in the history of world.(Fishman, 2006) The present paper is divided into four sections to understand and answer as what makes Wal-Mart the best in the industry, 1) retailing industry at the time of Wal-Marts innings, 2) Wal-Marts Competitive advantage and key components, 3) Wal-Marts Strategy and 4) Sustainable growth of Wal-Mart. I. Retail Industry Wal-Mart says Hello! Strategic decisions are ones that are aimed at differentiating an organization from its competitors in a way that is sustainable in the future. (Porter, 2002) Porter strongly advocates that decisions in business can be classified as strategic if they involve some innovation and difference that results in sustainable advantage. According to Patrick Hayden et al (2002) the retailing industry adopted the style of discounting on its merchandise after the Second World War. It is learnt that discount retailing was not the strategy at the time Kmart, Target and Wal-Mart first started operating their business. Frank (2006) states that when Sam Walton was franchising for Ben Franklins variety store, invented an idea of passing on the savings to his customers and earning his profits through volume. Prior to Wal-Marts entry into the market, Sidney and Hebert from Harrison founded Two Guys discount store in the year 1946 which dealt in hardware, automotive parts and later on groceries. Two Guys was the forerunner as compared to todays retailers like Super Target, Wal-Mart which succumbed to the economic recession. Another discount store set up by Eugene as E.J. Korvette, which is often cited as first discount store which did not raise from 5 10 cents roots and eventually declared bankruptcy due to inability to compete with the new entrants. Porter (2002) states that combination of operational effectiveness and strategy is essential for superior performance which is the primary goal of any organization. He also says that a company can perform its rivals only if it can operate in different ways which are not in practice. Much emphasis had been laid on strategic positioning like variety based positioning, needs based positioning and access based positioning. Along with Wal-Mart, other stores that started operating were Target, Woolworth (Woolco) and K-Mart. However, Target has been functioning successfully, courtesy Wal-Mart, but other two failed in their operations and filed bankruptcy.( Michael Bergdahl, 2004) Porters five forces model explains what strategic decisions should be made and on what basis. The model explains the basic strategies to be considered while starting a business like bargaining power of suppliers. While franchising of Franklin he always looked for cheaper deals and thought of passing his savings to the customers and earning through the margin on volume of bulk purchases. Through the way of discount stores, shoppers were given the cheapest price as compared to any other store. In regard to threats of new entrants, Wal-Mart has been constantly in the news for acquisition of other small retail shops in view of its expansion. But nevertheless it has stiff competition from likes of Super Target, Tesco, etc. it is the w orlds biggest retail industry. II. Key Components of Wal-Mart Business Model Wal-Mart is the leader in retailing industry with fiscal revenue of $244.52 billion in 2003 making it the worlds largest corporation. Mike reports that Wal-Mart as of 2002 had 1,283,000 employees growing at 11.2%. The above data explains that strategy of Wal-Mart is extraordinary which manages and operates over 4150 retail facilities globally.The key components of Wal-Mart (The Value Chain), which offers cheap prices than its competitors includes firm infrastructure like frugal culture, no regional offices and pleasant environment to work. Managements take lots of visits and it is learnt there are no rehearsals before any meeting which is usually scheduled on every Saturday. In any organization, human resource is the key to development and Wal-Mart efficiently manages its sources. Wal-Mart terms its employees as associates. Manager compensation is linked to the profit of store operated by him, within promotions, compensation offered to associates depending on companys profits and als o offered some incentives on their performances. The workforce at Wal-Mart is not unionized as the company takes all the measures of their benefits and provides them training on related issues. Technology plays a vital role in development of the organization and Wal-Mart is well equipped with technological innovations like POS, store performance tracking, real time market research, satellite system and UPC. Wal-Mart procurement measures like hard-nosed negotiations, partnerships with some vendors, centralized buying, planning packets, etc. helps at large the cause of providing the goods and services on cheap prices. The other factors that increase the margin of profit for Wal-Mart are inbound logistics with frequent replenishment, automated DCs cross docking, pick to flight, EDI, hub and spoke system. Wal-Mart strategy of operation is innovative with big stores in small towns with monopoly in the market at low rental costs, local prices, concentric expansion, merchandising in brand name, private labels, little space for inventory, store within store, etc. In relation to marketing and sales, merchandising is tailored from locals, spent less on advertising and the prices are fixed low and it depends on the store manager to fix the latitude of pricing. All the above factors combined together form the key components of Wal-Mart which not only increase the margin of profits through bulk sales but also boost the confidence of the customers with services like point of sale information system and everyday low prices. III. Wal-Mart Strategy Wal-Mart dominates the American retailing industry due to number of factors like its business model which is still a mystery and its effectiveness in not letting the rivals let know about the weaknesses. Wal-Mart made strategic attempts in the its formulation to dominate the retail market where it has its presence, growth by expansion in the US and Internationally, create widespread name recognition and customer satisfaction in relation to brand name Wal-Mart and branching into new sectors of retailing. It is learnt that Wal-Mart strives on three generic strategies consisting of Focus Strategy, the Differentiation Strategy and overall cost leadership. Managers strive hard to make their organizations unique, distinctive and identify key success factors that will drive the customers to buy their products.Thus, firm specific resources and capabilities are crucial in explaining the firms performance. The Resource Based View (RBV) explains competitive heterogeneity based on the premise that close competitors differ in their resources and capabilities in important and durable ways. The companys capability can be found through its functionality, reliable performance, like Wal-Mart superior logistics. (Helfat, 2002) Wal-Mart has firm infrastructure, well equipped in human resource with management professionals and technologically too. Any organizations thrive hard to be successful for which it needs to have better resources and superior capabilities. Wal-Mart has strong RBV with economically and financially very strong enough to stand still in the time of crisis. Pereira states that dominating the retail market is its key strategy. Wal-Mart operates on low price strategy which is operated as every day low prices (EDLP) which builds trust among the customers.(Brunn, 2006)The strategy lies in purchasing the goods at lower prices and selling the goods to customer at much lower prices, cutting the price as far as possible and increasing the profit by increasing the number of sales. This ferociously increases the competition in the market and Wal-Mart competes with all its competitors till it is dominant it the market. Wal-Mart is expanding seriously and rapidly which is also its strategic goal. Wal-Mart employs over 1.3 associates, owns over 4000 stores out of which 3000 are in US and serves around 100 million customers weekly. Wal-Mart has acquired many international stores and merged with some super stores like ASDA in UK. Wal-Mart far flung network of retail outlets has ensured that Wal-Mart interacts with and has impact on virtually every locality within US. (Helfat, 2002) The expanded strategy has led the hunger of Wal-Mart to many European Countries. It is learnt that three countries with no Wal-Mart stores became part of corporations international presence wherein the domestic retail chains were taken over by Wal-Mart including 122 Woolco stores in Canada, 21 Wertkauf stores in Germany and 229 ASDA units in United Kingdom. The takeover strategy by Wal-Mart keeps the company at forefront when entering into the new market and the number of competitors is also minimized. The strategies have he lped the Wal-Mart to rein in number one position in international countries making it the largest retailer in the world. It is seen that Wal-Mart has significantly the Porters five force model wherein through proper strategic planning and strategic implementation has led to removal of barrier entry, rivalry from competitors and pricing norms. In regard to substitutes, Wal-Mart in order to achieve its aim of customer satisfaction has selling goods under its own legal brand. Wal-Marts big box phenomenon has changed the retailing industry in the United States which is often considered as discount stores and makes profit through high volume of purchases and low markup on profits.(Parnell, 2008)Wal-Mart with its low cost and ever expanding strategy has made a dramatic impact since 1962 when Sam Walton first started his business. With this strategy, Wal-Mart has now over 4000 stores and outlets in US and other countries through acquisition and mergers. IV. Sustainability in Discount Retailing Wal-Mart According to Porter, (2002) operational effectiveness and efficiency are the key elements of success in any organization. A company can outperform its rivals or competitors in the market only with superior management and efficient control creating a difference from the others which eventually attracts customers. Porter defines operational effectiveness as performance of similar activities as its rivals but better than them. In a study, it is stated the Wal-Mart is expert in manipulating perceptions. It is termed that low price is not the strategy of Wal-Mart but the advertisement manipulates the consumer perceptions by making them think that its prices are lower than its competitors price using price spin. Wal-Mart makes the consumer addicted coming to its stores by convincing them the prices are lower than in the other stores by selling itself cheaper by advertising that we have lower prices than anyone else and placing a opening price point. The opening price point is the lowest pr ice in the store which is kept at high visibility which makes consumer believes that the products in this store are really cheaper. (Race Cowgill, 2005) The SWOT analysis of Wal-Mart reveals that it is most powerful retail brand, reputation for money, value, commitment, and provides wide range of products. It is growing at a brisk pace with expanding its horizon to other parts of world through acquisition and merger. Wal-Mart has good opportunities in markets of Europe and China and focuses on acquiring the market through acquisition of smaller stores and merger with leaders in the specific markets. Wal-Mart is always under threat to sustain its top position in market nationally and internationally. Global leader in the industry leaves the organization vulnerable to many socioeconomic and political problems of the country. Sustainability at the top place is the most important job that makes its managers strives hard to frame the policies and strategy to compete with its rivals in the market. Slack, Imitation, Substitution and Hold-up are some of the threats to any organization in retail industry. However, Wal-Mart with its visionary goal of attaining zero waste status and reaching 100% renewable energy has planned to launch number of sustainability initiatives. (GreenBiz, 2008) Imitation increase profits by increasing the supply. But imitation puts reputation, relationship at stake. James Hall reports that Wal-Mart is planning to open convenience stores as Tesco has started and operating in US called Fresh Easy Neighborhood Markets. (James, 2008) Such tactics will create mixed response among the consumers while degrading the reputation of the leader in market. Substitution reduces the demand for what a firm uniquely provides by shifting the demand elsewhere due to changes in technology. The threats of substitution can be subtle and unexpected like minimizing expenses through videoconferencing instead of air flights to long distance meetings with its managers of other stores, etc. Therefore, substation is an especially effective way of attacking dominant rivals in the market. Substitution offers mixed responses after identifying and understanding the threats. The organization should fight the threat and merging with them, switching to different options of substitution to be in the market. Hold-up diverts the value to customers, suppliers or complementors who have some bargaining leverage which results in tough negotiations, contractual agreements and vertical integration. Wal-Mart is having great network with almost over 7800 stores and Sams Club locations in 16 markets worldwide. It employs more than 2 million associates and serves more than 100 million customers every year. According to Fishman (2006) Americans spend $26 million every hour at Wal-Mart which makes it believable that Wal-Mart is financially very strong and is capable of combating any threat from its rivals in the market. Wal-Mart is ever expanding its boundaries by way of acquisition and mergers. Thus Wal-Mart with such a vast network of stores and alliances in the forms of ASDA, Target and many other stores is well protected enough to sustain its top position in the retail industry.

Alice Walkers Everyday Use Essay examples -- Alice Walker Everyday Us

Alice Walker's "Everyday Use" In the short story â€Å"Everyday Use† by Alice Walker, the author portrays opposing ideas about one’s heritage. Through the eyes of two daughters, Dee and Maggie, who have chosen to live their lives in very different manners, the reader can choose which character to identify most with by judging what is really important in one’s life. In Dee’s case, she goes out to make all that can of herself while leaving her past behind, in comparison to Maggie, who stays back with her roots and makes the most out of the surroundings that she has been placed in. Through the use of symbolism, the tangible object of a family heirloom quilt brings out these issues relating to heritage to Mama, and she is able to reasonably decide which of her daughters has a real appreciation for the quilt, and can pass it on to her. Dee and Maggie shed a new light on the actual meaning of heritage through their personality traits, lifestyle decisions, and relationships with specific fam ily members.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although all of the character’s views on heritage are expressed, Dee’s character is given the more detailed description of ways she strays from her heritage. From the beginning, Dee despises the home that they live in. When it is destroyed in a fire, her mother wants to ask her, â€Å"Why don’t you do a dance around the ashes?,† expressing Dee’s utter aversion towards the home (Walker 409). Most people take pride in their home and cherish it for all of the memories that it holds for them, but Dee is insensitive to the family’s loss. After becoming of age, Dee decides to go to college, where she begins to hold her newly found knowledge against her family because of their lack of it. This opportunity to go out of her town and see the world gives Dee a taste of a better lifestyle that she wants to become apart of, and leaves her family behind. While Dee is away at college, she denies the quilts that her mother has offered her saying that â€Å"they were old-fashioned, and out of style† because she is still longing to separate herself from her family as much as possible (Walker 413). One of the main things that Dee does to distance herself from her family, and tarnish part of her family’s tradition is the changing of her name Dee Johnson, to Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo, because she feels that it comes from â€Å"the people that oppressed me† (Walker 411). This act comes to Mama... ...and Mama are indifferent to her rude remark. Maggie smiles though, in a way that lets the reader know that she has finally found a place in her mother’s heart. She does not feel as though she has lost out to Dee, but rather that Dee is the one missing out, because she has no concept of what really matters in life. Maggie and Mama do not have to go out and try to prove to the world how far they have come and cover up for their past like Dee. A sense of heritage is the best gift that anyone could ever be given. Unfortunately for Dee, she is looking for material objects to fill that space in her that she has more than once denied. The story makes it apparent that their are different ways to interpret one’s heritage. For those people who are more secure with who they are, heritage is something that they can pride themselves on and not be ashamed of because of where they came from. Heritage is a person’s undeniable past that they carry around with them everyday, i t cannot be found in a mere tangible object. Work Cited Walker, Alice. â€Å"Everyday Use.† Literature: Reading Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and the Essay. 4th ed. Robert DiYanni, Ed. New York: McGraw Hill, 1998. 408-413.

American Financial Crisis Essay -- Economics Economy

The US Financial System: A Crumbling Empire The financial system has been crucial to the role of free enterprise. â€Å"Financial markets have come to supply non-financial corporations with mechanisms for managing their risks and for comparing and evaluating diverse investment opportunities in a highly complex global economy† (Cindin, 2008). â€Å"However, despite the lifetimes it took to build our financial institutions, bad luck and careless risk management have jeopardized careers and mortgaged these institutions’ futures†(Wallace, 2008). The nation is currently attempting to deal with the biggest financial crisis since the Great Depression. It is now imperative that a way be found which will re-regulate finance without undermining finance’s needed innovative capacity. The origin of the financial crisis can be dated back to 2006. During that period in time, companies began buying trillions of dollars of complex financial products called ‘structured credit derivatives’. The value of these derivatives quickly escalated to over one-hundred trillion dollars due to the high demand from banks around the world. â€Å"These paper investments were supposedly backed by loans on houses, cars, businesses, and credit cards† (Francis, 2008). Nevertheless, several issues have erupted from the sale of these paper investments. The production and trading method for derivatives is unclear, and no one really knows what credit risk is transferred to whom. Basically, banks were fighting over assets with questionable values. Even though the sale of derivatives has disrupted our economy, it is not the primary reason for which the financial system is now in distress. The reckless selling of mortgage loans has lead to the eventual breakdown of our financial... ..., Jane & Francis, Theo. The Financial System Bailout: Deal or No Deal? (2008). Business Week. Retrieved November 2, 2008, from http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/sep2008/db20080925_596844.htm Solomon, Deborah & Crittenden, Michael & Paletta, Damian. US Bailout Plan Calms Markets, But Struggle Looms Over Details (2008). Wall Street Journal. Retrieved November 2, 2008, from http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122191819568460053.html?mod=googlenews_wsj Stewart, Heather. IMF Says US Crisis is Largest Financial Shock Since Great Depression (2008). Guardian News. Retrieved November 2, 2008, from http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2008/apr/09/useconomy.subprimecrisis Wallace, Michael. Wall Street Talks: What the Bailout Means (2008). BusinessWeek. Retrieved November 2, 2008, from http://www.businessweek.com/investor/content/sep2008/pi20080922_128934.htm

Economische En Sociale Geschiedenis

Samenvatting Economische en Sociale Geschiedenis 2013 INHOUD: 1. Samenvatting Boek â€Å"Before the Industrial Revolution† M. Cipolla 2. Kleine samenvatting Boek â€Å"Arm en Rijk† D. Landes 3. Samenvatting algemene hoorcolleges: Migratie & Interbellum 1. Samenvatting Boek â€Å"Before the Industrial Revolution† M. Cipolla Part I CHAPTER 1: Demand (pages: 3 t/m 52) Spain census of population, 1789, lot of population estimations are rough and not precise. Small societies. Not very large growth of population in 18th century. Low fertility or high mortality is the cause of slow growth. So population of preindustrial Europe remained relatively small. more in chapter 5). Normal mortality occurs in normal years. Catastrophic mortality occurs in calamitous years, it far exceeded current fertility. Always drastic fluctuations of population. Needs: depend on population size, geographical factors, and structure of population by age/gender/occupation & sociocultural factors . Cultural factors forbid/duty to do certain things. As long as a person is free to demand what he wants, what counts on the market are not ‘needs’, but ‘wants’. Wants are both expressed by individuals and society but only have limited resources, we have to make choices.Wants become effective demand when they are backed by purchasing power. (expressed by purchasing power). Purchasing power is based on income/distribution of income (public/private) & level and structure of prices. Income and distribution: Incomes can be divided in wages/profits/interests and rents. Preindustrial Europe was a striking contrast between the abject misery of the mass and the affluence and magnificence of a limited number of very rich people. Lyon & Florence 10% of the population controlled more than 50 % of the wealth assessed. Other measurement of wealth: bags of grain. (reserves).Gregory King made accurate calculations of national income, putting to good use all the material h e had available in addition to his personal observations. Poverty and unequal distribution of wealth and income. People with no income at all beggars. In France at the end of the 17th century, beggars counted for 10 % of the population. Most people lived at subsistence level, no savings or social security to help them in distress, only hope was charity. In different European cities, there were different percentages of â€Å"beggars†. Many fluctuations in unemployment figures. In years of famine (hongersnood/schaarste) high numbers of poverty.Income can be earned or transferred. Transfers: voluntary transfers (charity/gifts) & compulsory transfers (taxation). Many people left things behind for charity when they died. Also disasters and feasts served to accentuate charity. When people died from a disaster, their belongings went to the church/hospitals. Besides charity, gambling and dowries were forms of voluntary transfers, they could affect productive activity. Compulsory tran sfers; taxation on the one hand, plunder and theft on the other hand. Theft on low-class people because of: famine, inequality of income. Noble people also: earlier centuries of middle ages.Ransom (losgeld), large transfers of wealth. In early periods, great importance of alternatives to trade. After 10th century, trade expanded and concentrated in cities. (Permanent fairs). Types of demand: Demand for production goods, demand for services, demand for capital goods. 1. Demand for consumption goods 2. Demand for services 3. Demand for capital goods Demand can also be divided into: 1. Private internal demand 2. Public internal demand 3. Foreign demand Private demand: the lower the income, the higher the percentage spend on food (logic). The poorer the country, the higher the percentage spend on food of total expenditures.The lower the income, the more spend on poorer foods, such as bread (stijfselachtig voedsel). Rich people, less amount of total income on food. Symbolic value of food in preindustrial Europe. Rich ate a lot. Somethimes too much. Purchase of clothing was luxury. Epidemics, clothing of deads were passed over, which spread the epidemics. Plagues. People lived in small houses with many families. (rents were very high in large towns, compared to the wages). Milanese Public Health Board issued rules for living, but poverty stood in the way of wisdom. Rich had domestic staff. Low wages favoured the demand of domestic services.Wages only did not represent the total expenditures on them. costs of food/living/heating and other items provided tot servants by their employers. Income not spend on consumer goods and services is naturally saved. Nobody saves to the same extent: 1. Level income 2. Psychological/sociocultural factors 3. Income distribution. Obvious when income is high that there is more possibility of saving. Rich people could invest an amount saved of their income. (Cornelig de Jonge van Ellemeet for example). National saving in England at the end of the 17th century amounted to less than 5 percent of national income.Very unfair divided income distribution. Even though England was one of the richest preindustrial societies, NO high concentration of income. Preindustrial societies were in a position to save only if they succeeded in imposing miserably low standards of living. Flow of monetary income becomes circular savingwill be converted into investment. Hoarding: preindustrial Europe, large amounts of monetary savings were hoardeddid not reach financial market (under matrasses/socks for example). A lot of hoards were accidentally discovered. Hoarding because of fear (robbery and plundering). Beginning 11th centrurydis-hoardingdivine activities.Building cathedrals, helping the poor, religious building. 11th & 12th century financed through dis-hoarding. Investment euphoria. Public demand: Arose from the 11th century, only 5-8% of national income. Before the 18th century public and private demand were different to distingu ish. Distinction: presence of CHURCH as patrimonial & economic entity. Level and structure of public demand: a. â€Å"income† public power (derive from: taxation, public loans (forced), state property exploitation, gain of the mint) b. â€Å"wants† of those in power (war/defense/court/civil administration/festivities) c. he price structure and of the community they control Public powers can increase taxes; income is function of their â€Å"wants†. Public Debt= invention of Italy city-states. Moneys lent to the state by private citizens, mostly forced loans. Citizen would receive interest on the sum lent. Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance the public powers managed to broaden the tax base & to raise the rate of taxation. Parties Casuelles were in France the fiscal bureaus. In England and France the revenues of the Crown rose. But also rising prices, growing population, increased wealth.Fiscal privileges for the nobles (adel) hit the poor hardercomplaints! From 12th century sometimes administration was done by noblemen (no salary). A major expenditure of public money were embassies (representation). But military expenditure surpassed by far all the other expenditures. Also medical and educational services rose. Ethical & social valuepaying with public money so that ANY person (rich or poor) could get education or treatments. For example in Milan in 1288 had 3 of such surgeons. 1324 18 of such surgeons in Venice. Education: in the Middle Ages only private education (few).When communes arosepaying teachers with public money. Public schools arose rapidly. After 11the century. Education is investment in human capital. Guns & warships unattractive form of capital, capital goods middle 15th century public expenditure. Demand of the church: Church is important economic entity in preindustrial Europe. Donations from counts/barons, unable to manage land themselves so they donate to church. Very large magnitude of such estates. Before the 11th century. Following centuries nobles/wealthy donate buildings and lands to the church. 16th and 17th centurygrowing size of land holdings.Every now and then , however, church fell upon hard times in which bad administration affected property Reformation was worst period before 18th century. dissolution (ontbinding) of monasteries. A lot of monasteries (kloosters). By 1550 nothing was left of English monasteries, all possessions dispersed. Lots of income for Crown (benefit from sales). ReformationLombardy(-ije) before countries affected by Reformation. Reformation cuts into further growing of lands & possessions of church. The distribution of wealth within the church reflected the unequal distribution of wealth in society as whole.Foreign demand: Network of exchanges with other economic systems (goods/services/wealth/capital & metals). Import/Export = foreign trade. Exports are the response to foreign demand. Demand largely on food and textiles. End 16th century, clothes 80% English export. High transportation costsquality products, well do could afford these products. Industrial revolution made it possible to buy foreign made products easier. Import/Export could be measured by total GDP. (GNP). England best country with statistics on foreign trade. Henry VII (15th centrury) 300. 000. 17th century 9,5 million, increase in volume foreign trade.In Portugal, ancient manufacturers destroyed. Trade consequences depend on qualitative structures of certain trade. CHAPTER 2: The factors of production (pages; 53 t/m 96) Input is made up of factors called â€Å"factors of production†. Labor (ARBEID): divide people in consumers/producers & ages of people. Preindustrial 1/3 under 15. 60% 15-60 years old before 19th century. Difference between preindustrial & industrial societies = composition of dependent population (consumers but NOT producers). Nowadays productivity is very high, ratio of dependency 50-65%. Preindustrial: work till dead, start younger than 15.Chil d labor fields; summer. Bad treatment + female labor (agricultural/spinning/weaving). Wet nurse: sells food (mother’s milk) & cares for infant (service). Of economical and social importance. Sectors of activity: Primary, Secondary, Tertiary. Primary: Agricultural; low productivity, high % of total people worked in Primary sector not all sunk, kill and eat it, very vulnerable†¦ Working Capital: consists of stocks and inventories. (raw materials, semi-finished goods, finished goods). Stocks of foods, spared from consumption capital. Creating stocks costs money. Nowadays: ratio working capital to fixed capital is reduced. 2012, doomsday preppers however still exist;-)). Working capital is continually turned over. Continually coming back for reinvestment disinvestment is easier. STOCKS can be sold. QUESTIONL: Why low levels of production of preindustrial societies and a vicious circle of poverty? investment was so limited because opportunities for productive investment were extremely limited. Not so much because of poor potential of saving. Natural resources (NATUUR): non reproducible capital. Not infinite!!!! Land is a natural resource. Mineral deposits of: silver, gold, tin, copper, iron, etc.Medieval people were conscious about pollution more than during Industrial Rev. (Pitcoal). Forestsrules of cutting and planting trees. Later the rules became less important to the Europeans (during M. A & Renaissance). A lot of brick and marble in Italian culture because they exhausted their forests very early. Energy of water and wind for land-based activities (used on the spot), so manufacturers were located were mills could be build. Organization: labor, capital and natural resources must be combined in organizational forms which vary according to technology, the size of markets and the types of production.Different forms of organization can coexist. Preindustrial manufacturing was concentrated on the workshop. Craftsman. Dependent on who gave order (merchant s with warehouses). Mining and shipbuilding sectors. Modern capitalism manufacturing or trading sectorsled to modern capitalism. CHAPTER 3: Productivity and Production (pages; 97 t/m 114) Production is the outcome of all individual and social choices acting on both the demand and the supply side. Labor, capital and natural resources are INPUTS of production. Output emerges from their combination of use. Determinants: better education, economies of scale, technological development, etc.Entrepreneurial activity is a necessary ingredient, but not a sufficient one+ human vitality of whole society. Medieval and Renaissance productivity levels: technological progress. Agriculture (Slicher van Bath): between 1200 and 1700, grains yielded per seed planted rose. Fluctuation because natural resources, poor control over forces of nature. Animals poor fedless milk from cows, little meat. Weavers : low labor productivity meant that production processes were labor-intensive. Building industry: li ttle improvement on productivity. Other sectors noticeable improvements during MA & Renaissance. Gutenberg 1440: printing press (drukpers).The main reason for productivity gain was technological progress. Still low compared to industrial society. Not only quantity is important n measuring productivity, quality also important, but less records available. Positive production: greatest part of production in preindustrial Europe: food, textiles, buildings and domestic services. The: foreign trade. Many people produced locally. Negative production: the deliberate destruction of men and whealth & pollution and the destruction of the environment. Destruction of men and wealth for political or religious reasons. Assasins, Arsonist, Bomb-throwers. War!! -> Labor (the military) and capital (weaponry) with the avowed intention of destroying. Industrial army greater destructive power. Preindustrial: scarcity of capital. Plague destroyed men, not capital. Livestock killed, acres burned, vineyard s destroyed. a. destruction of natural resources b. pollution of the environment with the waste products of consumption c. pollution of the environment with undesirable by-products of productive activities d. damage to the health of those engaged in production In preindustrial societies less capacity for negative production. But even preindustrial societies managed to mismanage. 6th century increased use of coal in England. Domesticindustrial. (Fumifugium 1661. J. Evelyn). Miners, Gilders, Potters, Sulfur workers, Tanners, Glass-workersconcern for working conditions of labor. Part II CHAPTER 4: The Urban Revolution: The Communes (pages; 117 t/m 122) After fall down Roman empire, cities fell with it. Economic decline. North improved position, contact with south. Muslim invasion. Depressed and depressing world, rise of cities between the 11th and 13th centuries represented a new development, which changed the course of history. Differences between parts of countries and countries. Mas sive migratory movement.Towns grew because populations grew, high fertility & people from rural areas to cities. Migration: push & pull factors. Town was a place for innovation, economic and social advancement. Nobles took residence in the city (Italy). Cities became seats and centres of the power of the triumphant bourgeoisie. Citie WALLS. (protection). Towns were very different in medieval and renaissance period. Emegence of towns was a social and cultural revolution. Unique personal status for people living in cities. Burgers†¦ Italian cities attack and conquer the surrounding territory ( conflict with central power of Empire).Germans not!! France got a monarchy very soon. England, cities developed slower, very few revolutionary characteristics. Horizontal arrangements, co-operation among equals: university, fraternity, gildthe commune were the institutions created by the new outlook and which reflected new ideas. QUESTION: How did cities emerged from a portus (Belgian histo rian) beside a feudal castle of rising again from the foundations of a Roman town, was core of new society. Between 11th & 13th century. CHAPTER 5: Population: Trends & Plagues (pages; 123 t/m 136)Beginning new millennium, thin scattered population 35 million total. 1000-1400 population grew. Black dead came back in 1348, wiped out people. Also: wars, famines & epidemics struck again. En of 15the century 80 million. 16th century substantial growth. Beginning 17th100 million. Population of preindustrial Europe remained young and small. High fertility and high mortality. Marriage: manay people lived in celibacy (celibatair). Avoided for economic reasons. Age of marriage differs from time, class and country. Average age marriage around 25. Many people which DID married made it up for the unmarried.Number of children born still very high. High fertility because of youthful age structure and high mortality. QUESTION: Which types of mortality can be distinguished? Normal and catastrophic mortality. Normal mortality happens to occur in normal years. free from calamities (infants and adolescents) but WITH poverty.. While catastrophic mortality also took adults. Preindustrial societies were very vulnerable to calamities of all sorts. (WARS, FAMINES, PLAGUES (EPIDEMICS)). People literally died of hunger. Famines contributed directly to increase in mortality but also indirect by encouraging epidemics.Epidemics contributed most to the frequency and the intensity of catastrophic mortality. Balck Dead 1348. But also evey year an epidemic. Tyfus, bacteries, plaag, etc. Low growth rates. Begin 14th century several areas overpopulated, to prevailing levels of production and technology. Demographic growth big, public health development small! Effects of epidemics on given population are determined not only by the # people killed, but also by distribution of age (fertility). Normal mortality usually lower than fertility, but after a catastrophe start all over again. Citites surv ived because of flow from country to city.Epidemics after 18th century subsided. Pandemics. Mortality no longer assumed catastrophic proportions. Disappearance of plague after 17th century. Reasons: better building, burying corpses, disappearance of black rat? –> onverdedigbaar! BUT: ecological revolutiondemographic revolution, due to technological and economic achievements of western Europe. CHAPTER 6: Technology (pages; 137 t/m 159) Technological developments 1000-1700: Romans ->Watermills, slave labor (cultural reasons for development stagnations). BUT: we always think of machinery as we think of technology.Romans were very good in : organization of military, administration, architecture, road construction). Main technological developments 6th-11th century: watermills, plough, crop rotation, horseshoe, methods for harnessing draft animals. NOT inventions but increase in USE. All agricultural and strengthen each other. Many horses used, better capital. Alos IRON for equipme nt. Also developments in human capital and water power, watermill used for all kinds of productions. Also Windmillsirrigation end of 12th century. In 1745 a FANTAIL , sails into the wind automatically, 1st example of automatic control in machinery. 300 the compass, more mathematical navigation. Ship as capital greater value. Inventions: spinning wheel and spectacles (BRIL). Beginning 14th century: clocks, firearms and canal locks. Ship building: ship skeleton first during later middle ages. 15th centuryfull-rigged ships, all kinds of winds sailable. Time of voyages diminished + costs reduced. systematic knowledge of winds. Naval guns were build out of bronze. 16the centurycasting iron guns. This before mentioned provided a basis for expansion overseas. Technological innovation: printing (Gutenberg) bible, before printing was very expensive.Press opened up vast new horizons and opportunities in the fields of knowledge and education. Spread rapidly. Spinning wheel China 11the century, Europe 12th century. Innovation: small steps through numerous minor experiments. After the industrial revolution modern science. Windmill originally Persianvertical axis, European horizontal axis worked much better. Paper originally Chinesespread to Muslim empire. European paper produced with machines driven on watermills. After 12th century passion for mechanization of all productive processes. LABOR SAVING DEVICES.Mechanical clock for examplefirst measuring time in different ways, from 13the century need for solution measuring time because of mechanical outlook from people. Spread of clock: churches, public buildings, etc. Consequences of mechanization: in a number of sectors gains were achieved + mechanical outlook reinforced more and more. Logical consequence that follows is a mental outlook, which takes centuries to develop. Also feared as a source of possible dangerous disturbances. Scarcity of labor caused by epidemics one factor; but were many more and complex factors. Also mental attitudes and aspirations.WHY Europe so favourable to change? We do NOT know. The spread of technology: 12th – 15th century Italians leas technology invention. 16th-17th century Dutch and English. Through ages; main channel for diffusion of innovation has been migration of people. = migration of human capital. Sometimes things kept a secret when economic interest were at stake. Spread: migration of craftsman to other parts of country or other countries skilled labor migration. Push and pull factors, bad for economy of home country when people moved to other country. Sometimes punishments because of skilled movement.DRANG NACH OSTEN; Dutch people went to east because of fertile ground. Bologna attracted artisans in exchange for privileges. Depends on circumstances if invention takes place in host country of skilled laborers. Qualities that make people tolerant also make them receptive to new ideas. CHAPTER 7: Enterprise, Credit & Money (pages; 160 t/m 182) Enterprise a nd credit: Business techniques; organization of fairs, accounting techniques, insurance, etc. Many techniques developed between 11th and 16th century in Italy. From 16th centuryDutch and English; great trading companies.Lack of productive investment because of hoarding etc. But cities grew and credit developed very rapidly. Sale credit, therefore consumption became higher. Commenda: partnership contractsone or more give a SUM, used by other in business†¦instead of hoarding for example. Some as stock exchange, small and large savings. From 15th compagnia (coastal cities). Inland grew companies better†¦less risks (pirates, bad weather, etc). Involvement of shareholders unrelated to original family marked end of first phase in company history. End 13th century; entries publicly authenticated. Italians: double entry bookkeeping. 6th/17th oversea trade, expansion demand capital. Companies createdEast India Company, stocks and shares. Commenda: not possible without MUTUAL TRUST & honesty in business. Development civil/criminal legislation. Monetary trends: Start 11th century economy + monetary system developed. Middle Ages + Renaissance only coins. Chinese 13th century paper money already. Gold measured in carats, pure measure of gold and silver. Is intrinsic value. During Middle Ages and Renaissance monetary systems progressed. Before 1000- denariuscould work in primitive economies. Silver, 1 coin only.Until the 16th century until the Germans invented a way to mechanize the minting process involving a watermill. Many goods instead of cash (horses, weapons, etc. ) Growing demand for money after 11th century. 2 standards for coins (fineness, weight) !! Extreme: in Germany every prince or individual town strok OWN coins. M=P+(C+S) P:marketprice, M: amount someone brought in, C:charge minter, S:left of worth metal Devaluationsincrease amount in circulation= bring more metal in increase P English relatively strong coin. France unstable (1290) devaluation and r evaluation, economy suffered in France.Also due to 100 year war. Countries coinage shouldn’t belong to a king. Italy different gentler downwards devaluations than in France. Grossi, Piccioli, of denarius new phase with â€Å"multiples† of 1 coint. Bimetallic: system with silver AND gold started in Italy. Supply of metals due to discovery of African coast (Portugese; 1457, cruzado). Afterwards silver founded in parts of Germany, rush towards heavy & chunky coins. Silver â€Å"Guldiner† in Germany. Spanish came back from America with gold/silver = Real of Ocho (Eight). 16th /17th century = intrinsic fineness. 2th century and onward banking activity deposits = intangible = ink. Money. Bankers appeared money changes: intermediaries for public & mints. Depositors/bankers/payees. Bankers always hold certain amount of cash delivered to them in case people want to withdraw it. Just a fraction of total amount in KAS. –>reserve. This is the origin of bank money. In England goldsmiths who collected deposits and created money. Bank money positive development. QUESTION: Were there any economical drawbacks? Many panic, wars, high risks of losing money. Hurry to banks to collect deposits.Not all money was there because bankers only hold a â€Å"fraction† of total deposits. The rest was in investments and loans. Many banks went BANKRUPT. CHAPTER 8: Production, Income & Consumption (pages; 183 t/m 208) The great expansion: 1000-1300: Phase of expansion: new technologies/growth of towns/new sociocultural environment/increased division of labor/monetarization of economy/stimuli to saving, all these factors encouraged economic expansion. 1000- when European development took off, cultivation of land. Fertile land, NEW land. The Christian Reconquista made important progress in Spain. Territory got re-conquered.Drang nach Osten(12-13th century). As the Germans advanced, new cities were founded. By 1300 the movement had slowed down. The German eastw ard expansion was demographic, economic, political and religious in character. Very good land in the east (better capital and techniques brought with them). Expansion to Central Europe, Baltic countries. Everybody in Europe benefitted from it. Untill Ind. Rev. economy remained agricultural. Rebuilding new city walls. As were leading sectors there were leading areas. Northern Italy, bridge between Europe and north Africa. Coastal republics and important crossroads.Seafaring activity was greatly extended. Economic trends: 1300-1500: CHAPTER 9: The Emergence of the Modern Age (pages; 209 t/m 233) 2. Samenvatting Boek â€Å"Arm & Rijk † D. Landes * 1. Ongelijke bedeeldheid natuur * 2. Omgaan met natuurlijke gesteldheid: Europa en China * 3. Europa’s eigen weg * 4. De uitvinding van het uitvinden * 5. De ontsluiting van de wereld * 6. Naar de Oost * 7. Van ontdekkingen tot wereldmacht * 8. Bitterzoete eilanden * 9. Heerschappij in de Oost * 10. Gewinzucht * 11. Golconda * 1 2. Winnaars en verliezers: de balans van de wereldmacht = t/m blz 202 1. Ongelijke bedeeldheid natuur:Invloed van geografische factoren, met name klimaat. Hierarchy betreft gunstig klimaat. Inkomen per hoofd bevolking in rijke landen in de gematigde streken. Onderontwikkelde in tropen of subtropen. Geografische gesteldheid is 1 van de factoren. Eenvoudige rechtstreekse verbanden: klimaat, in warme landen is werken zwaarder, hitte, lichaam. (neem als voorbeeld siesta). Slavernij in warme streken, anderen doen het werk. AC verscheen pas laat. In Amerika al eerder. Klimaatregeling kostbare techniek, weinig armen kunnen zich dat veroorloven. Arbeidsproductiviteit in warme landen lag LAGER.Complexe en indirecte verbanden: Hitte zorgt ook voor verbreiding van voor de mens schadelijke levensvormen. Slakkenziekte (parasieten) , malaria etc. Geneeskunde grote vooruitgang geboekt bij bestrijden dergelijke ziekten. Kolonisten brachten artsen mee, hierdoor inheemse langer leven. Zuigelingsterft e erg minder. Contrast echter nog steeds schrijnend. Tropenziekten + geneeskunde (inheems). Waterregenwoud, veel regen korte tijd, verpest alle vruchtbarheid etc. Uiterste: droge streken. Opslag zou oplossing zijn, maar enorm snelle verdamping. Rampenvijandig klimaatook in rijkere landen, Amerika orkanen bijvoorbeeld.Afrika: sterftecijfer blijft hoog ondanks vooruitgant, ook mede door bevolkingsexplosie. Opvallend verschil in werkkracht en efficiency tussen gematigd en tropisch klimaat. voedingspatroon NOEM EEN DIRECTE EN INDIRECT VERBAND WAAROM WARME LANDEN HET ZWAARDER HADDEN? [zwaarder werken in hitte, AC duur, slavernij] & [hitte zorgt voor verspreiding schadelijke levensvormen] 2. Omgaan met de natuurlijke gesteldheid: Europa en China: Europa: betrouwbare en gelijkmatige waterval + gematigde temperaturen. Voedselvoorziening in handen van mensen met vruchtbare grond. Mediteraanse zee, minder regen, slechtere grond betere bomen en veeteelt.Hierdoor achterstand Zuid-Europa, ook do or culturele factoren. Waarom kwam Europa zo traag op gang na Egypte en Mesopotamiegeografische liggingLigging in wouden/bossen, epidemieen/pandemieen/hongersnood/plagen/oorlogen. Later, technologie om land te bewerken, oorlog te voeren, meer mestmere voedsel, geen wormziekten die China wel teisterden. Europeanen waren gezonder. Echter zeer vruchtbaar slib in oosten. Overstromingen en droogte perioden in China/India. Grote bevolkingsdichtheid, er werd snel getrouwd. Europa pas laat trouwen. China: tussen 1000-1300 verdubbeling bevolking, daarna afname door epidemieen.Steeds meer landbouw nodig om mensen te voeden. Agrarische revoluties. Trokken van noord naar zuid. Uitbreiding graanschuur en enorme concentratie op rijst. Arbeids en waterintensief energiemodelhydraulische samenleving eigen arbeiders, sterke overheid, niet westers. Werd ook tegengehangen. Tijd tot tijd, zonder autoriteit. WAT IS EEN HYDRAULISCHE SAMENLEVING? GEEF VOORBEELD†¦Een  hydraulische samenleving  (ook bekend onder de termen  watermonopolie-rijk  of  hydraulische these) is een sociale of overheidsstructuur, die haar macht ontleent aan de exclusieve controle over de de toegang tot water.Ten grondslag hiervan ligt meestal de noodzaak tot gecoordineerde  irrigatie  of gecontroleerde overstromingen, waardoor centrale planning en een hiertoe gespecialiseerd overheidsapparaat een belangrijke rol gaan spelen. ] 3. Europa’s eigen weg: In de 10e eeuw had Europa net een lijdensweg ondergaan van plunderingen, roof, oorlogen. Noormannen naar zuid-europa en oosterse contreienRussen. Geduchte en wrede plunderaars. Hongaren vanuit het Oosten, bleven niet lang. Hierna, door afwezigheid van agressie kon Europa groeien, mede door ondernemingszin (niet vanzelfsprekend).Tussen oude mediterrane wereld and moderne Europa zit overgangstijdkwam nieuwe samenleving op gang. Orientaals despotisme (alleenheerschappij). Hierdoor niet mogelijk eigen gang te gaan, belemmerde dus de onderneming szin. Middeleeuwen tijd van overgang, Eigendom was recht!!! Europa zag niet toe, reguleerde niet en onderdrukte niet, China wel wat betreft eigendom. Ook despotische regeringen in Europa, maar ingeperkt door de wet. Chinamuren om mensen bij zich te houden, niet overlopen naar rivalen†¦Als er in Europa rivaliteit was tussen landen, goed jegens burgersanders konden ze overlopen.Er ontstonden gemeenten als marktplaatsen. Knoopplaats tot handel met platteland (hogere status). Heersers gaven macht aan stedelingen en buitenluiomdat dat meer oogst opleverde en tevens macht heerser uitbreidde. Middeleeuwen Europa: economische revolutievoedsel, landbouwmethoden, INNOVATIE ipv UITVINDINGEN. WAAROM SPREEKT MEN LIEVER OVER INNOVATIE DAN OVER UITVINDINGEN? [nieuwe methoden stamde al uit eerdere tijden, neem windmill (vertical/horizontal axis voorbeeld OF Ploeg op wielen door Germanen meegebracht]