Library of Congress

Years ago, Martin Luther King had a dream that all men and women would be equal, all students would be equal. Our laws and progression of civil rights and immigration has changed the United States Public Education System. Racial inequality and color prejudice has damaged the United States; affecting the American education system through legislation meant to help students. The differences in culture background and heritage are being traversed. Borders are supposedly being crossed. Educational theories and classroom practices are taking up new forms in order to conform and meet the educational needs of the global societies.Educators and teachers are being expected to share views and recognize values from different cultures, races, societies and ethnic groups. They are expected to move outside the system and custom of the dominant society and incorporate beliefs other than those they are accustomed with. Our laws and progression of Civil Rights and immigration has changed the United Sta tes public education system. The challenges that face our nation’s children relates to the civil right movements and immigration laws that have guided us to a direction of multicultural education.During the civil rights movement, there were two America’s, a black America and a white America. The school, bathrooms, water fountains, restaurants, bus seats, libraries, movie theaters, hospital floors, and even the line to see Santa Clause were all segregated based on the color of skin. African Americans went to school four months out of the year because they needed to help earn incomes the rest of the months. Their schools had no cafeteria, most with outside bathrooms; and their books were passed down from the white schools so they were all out of date (AARP, LCCR, & Library of Congress, 2004).The school building that contained African American students were falling apart. The classes were overcrowded with too many students, and not enough room for all the needed classes a nd materials. For the most part, these students had teachers that were substitutes who didn’t know what they were doing. The teachers that were in these schools had fixed values for these students and did not provide curriculum that was interesting or pertained to the students who were learning.The assumption of teachers was that these African American students did not deserve â€Å"a great deal in life and that a little, even a very little, (a very little) for a Negro child is a great deal more than he or she has earned† (Kozol, 1990). Complaints were being vocalized with the school districts letting white students ride the bus to attend white schools, and black students had to walk to their school when they lived right next to an â€Å"all white† school (Rafferty, 1965).In 1951, the Supreme Court finally had to face and rule on the subject of Civil Rights. A group called the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), created in 1909 to work towards eliminating segregation and discrimination, came together in a court case Brown versus Board of Education. African Americans had started filing suits against the educational systems as early as 1845, but the Supreme Court combined five cases to hear in 1951.The issues brought before the court was because of school conditions, segregation, deficient curriculum, pupil to teacher ratio, teacher training, extracurricular activity programs offered, transportation deficiencies, and of course teacher salaries (Brown Foundation, 1996). The discriminatory environment derived from civil rights and immigration issues unlocked, and then caused the world to see that human tendencies are to prejudge, discriminate against, and stereotype people based on their ethnic, religious, physical, or cultural characteristics.In 1954, Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (347 U. S. 483), also called Brown I ruled by Chief Justice Warren, acknowledged learning to be the most significant task of state and local government and â€Å"repudiated the separate but equal doctrine†, deciding that â€Å"racially segregated schools were inherently unequal† (Cambron-McCabe et al. , 2004). The decision had great impact and important to the civil rights movement. The Supreme Court ruled that school had no place for â€Å"separate but equal† status (AARP, LCCR, & Library of Congress, 2004).A year later the Supreme Court decision in Brown II defined how and when school desegregation would be achieved because there was no standard or deadline set in Brown I (Orfield & Eaton, 1996). The legal precedence of this time caused far reaching social and ideological implications that brought about changes in the 1960’s and beyond. On the other hand, the legal wrangling did not make immigration and civil right issues disappear because of the ambiguity of the legal decisions. The 1960’s brought about race riots all over the U.S. , deaths because of race, and more laws that declared discrimination illegal (http://www. cnn. com/EVENTS/1997/mlk/links. html%20). On January 20, 1964, Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn into the Presidency, after the sudden death of President John F. Kennedy. As America mourned the death of JFK, President Lyndon B. Johnson placed his hand on the Holy Bible that was being held by his wife and took the oath of office. On that particular day, Lyndon B. Johnson launched his new program called â€Å"the Great Society.† The agenda was intended to produce a better quality of life for all Americans (Campbell, 1965). Reporters knew the Presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson as a â€Å"legislative miracle. † In fact, Dick West of the Dallas Morning News wrote, â€Å"Mr. Truman couldn’t get started on a civil rights bill, because a rebellious congress passed an immigration law over a veto. Jack Kennedy took one whirl at federal aid to education, and then backed off. Then he tried to get Congress to set up a Department of Housing and Urban Development with Cabinet Status and was turned down in the House 264 to 150.† On the other hand, West writes that President Johnson was able to get these laws passed exactly the way he wanted them, thus being named â€Å"The Congressional Magician† (West, 1965 p. 2). President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on July 2, 1964, during a luncheon honoring late President Abraham Lincoln in the East room of the White House. The bill was about discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin (http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Civil_Rights_Act_of_1964).â€Å"The President sat at a small table in the center with racks holding 72 pens, which was an insufficient amount. † He actually used over 100 pens to sign this triumphant bill into law (â€Å"Big Audience†, 1964). Robert F. Kennedy sat in the front row, Martin Luther King sat in the second row, and other senators and cabinet members attended (â₠¬Å"Big Audience†, 1964). President Johnson’s speech was â€Å"swift but had great emphasis as he called on all Americans to close the springs of racial poison and eliminate the last vestiges of injustice in our beloved America† (â€Å"Big Audience†, 1964).The President spoke of the challenge that Lincoln bestowed upon America asking for â€Å"preservation of the union, enlargement of liberties for America and for being true to the Declaration of Independence which gives liberty to all. † The speech was a direct challenge for all Americans to ensure that all people including Black American’s will be a part of a â€Å"complete and equal† society (Negro Due, 1965). In 1968, the Supreme Court decision on Green v. County School Board of New Kent County gave the students the option to transfer from a black to a white school.The ruling states, â€Å"That schools must dismantle segregated dual systems root and branch and that desegregation mu st be achieved with respect to facilities, staff, faculty, extra-curricular activities, and transportation. † Because the Southern United States were fighting against the rulings of the Supreme Court because of their dissatisfaction of desegregation the case Alexander v. Holmes County Board of Education in Mississippi ruled that desegregation must be achieved in every district at once (Orfield & Eaton, 1996).Multi-cultural education is a program seeking to revise and reform both schooling and the political and cultural context of formal schooling and studying. It was designed to have a better impact to society by reducing racial tolerance brought about because of immigration and civil right problems that has plagued our nation. Several categories of programs that are designed encompass not only to restructure and reform subjects and curriculums at school but also to generate and increase contact among races.They are designed primarily to bridge the gap among races. However, in stead of harmonious co-existence and peace being attained, the proposed inclusion of cultures to curriculum, poses lots of intriguing questions. The public is uncertain with their thoughts regarding the changing of curriculum. Often times, multi-cultural education has become the topic of numerous debates and disputes, resulting to a further division of the nation. Multicultural education is intended to decrease if not totally abolish race, ethnic and gender divisions.By helping students achieve the necessary skills and by guiding them they are being prepared in facing the challenges they would soon be encountering. Students are trained to equip themselves with the attitudes needed in order to survive in the real world. However, before such programs can be implemented, a thorough understanding of the real issue at hand must first be achieved. Factors such as demography, social class, funding, quality of educators, student’s cultural backgrounds and public interest should be ca refully considered and taken in to account. ReferencesAARP, LCCR, & Library of Congress (2004). Save Our History: Voices of Civil Rights. The History Channel: The Hearst Corporation. Big Audience: Over 200 Guests See Bill Signed (1964, July 3). Dallas Morning News. Section 1 Page 8. Brown Foundation (1996). Brown VS Board of Education: About the Case. Retrieved October 1, 2007 from http://brownvboard. org/summary/. Cambron-McCabe, N. H. , McCarthy, M. M. , & Thomas, S. (2004). Public School Law 5th Edition. Pearson Education Inc: Boston. p. 149 Campbell, M. (1965). President Johnson Chosen 1965 Newsmaker of the Year.Dallas Morning News, December 24: page A12. Kozol, Jonathan (1990). Death at an Early Age. New York: Penguin Group. Negro’s Due Full Rights, Johnson Says. (1965, February 13). Dallas Morning News, Section A Page 1 Orfield, G & Eaton, S. (1996). Dismantling Desegregation: The Quiet Reversal of Brown vs. Board of Education. New York, NY. The New Press. Rafferty, Max (1965). Children Should Be Taught Sweep, Drama of U. S. Past. Dallas Morning News, December 16: Page A29 West, D. (1965). Johnson’s Legislative Miracle. Dallas Morning News, September 26: Section C page 2.

Education †School Essay

?†He who opens a school door, closes a prison. † ~ Victor Hugo The first time we are introduced to formal education is in school. The school years are the grounding years of one’s education. Schools are institutions that lay the foundation of a child’s development. They play a key role in developing children into responsible citizens and good human beings. It’s a school where young talent is recognized and nurtured. On leaving school, we are all set to soar high in life, and enter the real world in pursuit of our dreams. Education provides us with knowledge about the world. It paves the way for a good career. It helps build character. It leads to enlightenment. It lays the foundation of a stronger nation. Education makes a man complete. Kautilya, an Indian philosopher, royal adviser, and professor of economics and political science very rightly underlined the importance of education, some 2000 years ago. He has highlighted the fact that education enriches people’s understanding of themselves. He has said that education is an investment in human capital, and it can have a great impact on a nation’s growth and development. So, Why is Education Important? It Gives Knowledge â€Å"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. † – Benjamin Franklin A direct effect of education is knowledge gain. Education gives us knowledge of the world around. It develops in us a perspective of looking at life. It helps us form opinions and develop a point of view. The information we are constantly bombarded with, cannot be converted into knowledge without the catalyst called education. Education makes us capable of interpreting things rightly and applying the gathered information in real life scenarios. Education is not limited to lessons from textbooks. Real education is obtained from the lessons taught by life. It Leads to Career Progression â€Å"An expert is one who knows more and more about less and less. † – Nicholas M. Butler Education is important because it equips us with the expertise that is needed in helping us realize our career goals. Expertise is an in-depth knowledge about a specific field and it’s ought to open doors to brilliant career opportunities. Education fetches better prospects of career growth. Good education is an eligibility criterion for employment in any sector of the industry. Be it any field, education always proves to be rewarding. We are weighed in the market on the basis of our educational skills and on how well we can apply them. It Builds Character â€Å"A man’s own manner and character is what most becomes him. † – Marcus Tullius Cicero The words ‘cultivate’ and ‘civilize’ are synonymous with ‘educate’. That says it all. Education is important as it teaches us the right behavior and good manners, thus making us civilized. It is the basis of culture and civilization. It is instrumental in the development of our values and virtues. Education cultivates us into mature individuals; individuals capable of planning for the future, and taking the right decisions in life. It gives us an insight into living, and teaches us to learn from experience. It makes us self-confident, and develops our abilities to think, analyze, and judge. It fosters principles of equality and socialism. It forms a support system for one to excel in life. It is the backbone of society. It won’t be wrong to say that good education makes us more human. It Leads to Enlightenment â€Å"Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel. † – Socrates Education paves the path to disillusionment. It wipes out the wrong beliefs from our minds. It helps create a clear picture of things around, and erases all the confusion. It kindles the flame of curiosity and helps awaken the abilities to question, and to reason. The more we learn, the more questions we have, and without questions, there are no answers. Education teaches us to find answers. It makes us more self-aware. It leads us to enlightenment. It Helps a Nation Progress â€Å"Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is our fundamental resource. † – John F. Kennedy Though not enlisted as one of the three basic human needs, education is equally important. For the progress of a nation, for the enrichment of society in general, education is important. A country’s literate population is its asset. In today’s competitive world, it won’t be wise to neglect the importance of education for the development of society as a whole. Most countries have realized this. It has led to the development of many government-aided educational programs and government grants to schools and colleges. The motive behind this is fostering education in society. The future of a nation is safe in the hands of the educated. Education is important for the social development and economic growth of a nation. Schools and other educational institutes define the basic framework of education. Schooling gives us the fundamentals. We specialize in fields of our interest during degree courses. The number of institutes offering vocational courses and those offering online education is increasing by the day. Vocational courses help earn specialized education. Online degree programs help the working class and adults pursue education even while continuing work. Distance education has proven to be of great help for many. But education is not limited to that obtained from educational institutes. Learning is a lifelong process. Rather, self-learning begins at a point where institutional education ends. The process of self-learning continues throughout one’s life. This is well-supported by a speech made by US President Barack Obama. In his national address to students across the nation, he said: â€Å"†¦ Every single one of you has something that you’re good at. Every single one of you has something to offer. And you have a responsibility to yourself to discover what that is. That’s the opportunity an education can provide. † Read more at Buzzle: http://www. buzzle. com/articles/why-is-education-so-important. html.

Arm Length and Heigh Investigation-Science

Arm Length and Height Investigation By: Teresa Gebhardt Our Hypothesis is that, there is a linear correlation between arm length and height. We believe from observing our fellow students in class that taller people have longer arms. We tested this hypothesis by measuring the 24 students arm length compared to their height. Testing this hypothesis is important so that we can solve our theory that taller people have longer arms. The control was one single student who measured the majority of the other students.Shoes were removed to ensure accuracy and we made everyone stand straight against the wall, when being measured to prevent imprecise measurements. We used a meter stick to measure arm length and measuring tape to measure height. We converted the inches from the measuring tape to meters so we had an exact unit. We measured from the tip of your longest finger to under the left arm’s armpit. Our sample size was 24 American students from the ages of 18- 21.The replicate measur es we used were measuring the arm length and height of the same subject (student) three times. We then took the average of those three answers, which were sufficiently similar. Our assumptions are that the wall is straight, the floor is leveled, and that we perfected the way to measure. We found that the taller you are the longer your arms are. The average length of my classes’ arm length is 1. 64M and the average height of my class is . 7 M.The data collected shows that arm length increases as height increases. We used a table with 5 columns labeled: Subject, Trial #, height, arm length, average. Our limitations are that we only tested 24 students. The majority were Americans but of different races. We tested boys and girls. We only tested students of the ages between 18-21. My suggestion for doing this experiment again would be to separate males from females to see if sex is a determinant.

Company Law partnership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Company Law partnership - Essay Example In certain circumstances partnerships must be dissolved under the Partnership Act 1890: once a partnership contract is performed - eg it was for a fixed term or for a specific purpose; the death or bankruptcy of a partner; a partner assigns his share to a creditor to satisfy a private debt; any event which makes it unlawful for the firm to continue its business or to have the status of a partnership (s34) (Macintyre, 2005, 464). Under s35 a partner may seek for dissolution on the basis of one of the following five grounds: permanent disability to perform the partnership contract; conduct prejudicial to the carrying on of the firm; wilful or persistent breach of the agreement which makes it untenable for the other partners to continue the agreement; the firm is making a loss and there is no chance of its finances being turned around; and/or that the Court considers it to be 'just and equitable' to dissolve the firm. Under the Mental Health Act 1983 the mental incapacity of a partner can also lead to the dissolution of a partnership. (s34) (Macintyre, 2005, 465). The partners retain the ability to bind the firm following a dissolution to the extent of completing unfinished transactions and all matters incidental to the winding up of the firm (s38 Partnership Act 1890). ... A bankrupt partner cannot bind a firm following dissolution. However, if a receiver is appointed by the Court at the request of one or more partners, then all partners lose their authority to bind the firm (Macintyre, 2005, 466). An organisation's assets consist of both property and goodwill. Goodwill can be defined as "the excess of the market value of a business over the value of its individual assets" (Macintyre, 2005, 466). Once the firm's goodwill is sold it is unlawful for any partner to use the firm's name or solicit its customers. "[H]e must not, I think, avail himself of his special knowledge of the old customers to regain, without consideration, that which he has parted with for value. He must not make his approaches from the vantage ground of his former position. He may not sell the custom and steal away the customers" per Lord MacNachten Trego v Hunt [1896] AC 7 (Macintyre, 2005, 466). If a firm is solvent and has made a profit after settling its debts, then these proceeds will be split between the partners according to the proportion agreed upon in their current contracts. However, if the firm is solvent but has made a loss then either the partnership agreement will determine how the loss should be resolved or s44 Partnership Act 1890 is used to determine how the loss should be resolved (Macintyre, 2005, 467). Losses are to be paid out of profit, or capital or by the individual partners in the proportion they would have shared the profits (s44(a)). Following its winding up the firm must pay its creditors in the order of; external creditors are to be paid in full; partners' loans are to be repaid;

Critically evaluate equality of opportunity in (a) the teaching Essay

Critically evaluate equality of opportunity in (a) the teaching profession OR (b) the classroom - Essay Example It must be pointed out that the EO in teaching profession result to EO in education and hence any discussion for EO in the classroom must be taken to explain the effect of EO in the teaching profession. On the hand the inequality of opportunity (IEO) teaching profession result to IEO in education and hence, any discussion for IEO in the classroom must be taken to explain the effect of IEO in the teaching profession. The premise the teaching profession affects education is based on the premise that teachers bear great responsibility in moulding education of students who will become professionals and matured members of society. And hence good teachers produce good students in the classroom and good teachers and good students produce good education of UK citizens. "Let us stop tinkering with school structures, such as bringing back grammar schools, or promoting selection and the rest. Let us address the real problem, which is to recruit more teachers and better qualified teachers, with adequate resources for them to do the job of raising the general standard of basic education in our country." (Callaghan, 2001) Community Council of DevonïÆ'  (CCD) defines equal opportunities EO as that â€Å"about ensuring fair and equal treatment for everyone, and tackling discrimination wherever it exists in our society.† It says the fundamental principle is that employment opportunities and service provisions should be free from bias, and equally available to all. It posits as well that equal EO involves the breakdown and removal of discriminatory structures, biased policies and prejudicial practices in organisations and individuals. It further states that EO seeks to replace processes that perpetuate inequality with fairer and more effective ways of working. (Community Council of Devon, 2002, pages 1-4) (paraphrasing made) CCD summarized that EOP is about the elimination of discrimination, maximising potential, taking positive action, implementing change,

Business A formal report Law on Pollution Accounting Essay

Business A formal report Law on Pollution Accounting - Essay Example *GEO Year Book 2006. United Nations Environmental Programme. 16 Apr.2006.http://www.unep.org **Poverty Resource. World Resources Institute. 16 Apr.2006. Our minimal awareness and response have produced a number of treaties, protocols, laws and monitoring agencies. But why then the Ozone hole is expanding Why Global-Warming is increasing Why species are, increasingly, afflicted by pollution in it's various forms Let us blame it on business houses and governments. Nature, in it's myriad forms, is exploited ruthlessly for 'materialistic economic benefits'. Society is the ultimate sufferer. How to stop the further decline and start our response more effective and pronounced The answer lies in "Pollution Accounting". This is the way we should make the business houses and government agencies absolutely transparent, responsible and answerable to the common man of the society, in the matters of environment and pollution. 'Pollution Accounting' is as good as financial accounting. It reflects the activities of business in relation to environment and pollution. It records, also, the role of government and it's agencies. The 'Pollution Accounting' reflects 'liabilities' and 'assets', as how a financial accounting does. 'The liabilities' must record how the business activities degraded and polluted the environment. What are all the negative impacts on the society should also be recorded under liabilities. Any legal case, pending or over, in relation to pollution and any ongoing investigation, by government agencies, related to environmental degradation should also be recorded. The data must be provided in 'real' terms and in monetary terms also. 'The assets', in 'Pollution Accounting", must include the internal and external...This is the way we should make the business houses and government agencies absolutely transparent, responsible and answerable to the common man of the society, in the matters of environment and pollution. 'Pollution Accounting' is as good as financial accounting. It reflects the activities of business in relation to environment and pollution. It records, also, the role of government and it's agencies. should also be recorded under liabilities. Any legal case, pending or over, in relation to pollution and any ongoing investigation, by government agencies, related to environmental degradation should also be recorded. The data must be provided 'The assets', in 'Pollution Accounting", must include the internal and external activities of the business aimed at improving the environment and curtailing the pollution. It must reflect the tangible and intangible benefits of the pollution control activities. The asset side should also include any proposal, to be taken up by the business, to improve the environment. The data must be provided in 'real' as well as in monetary terms.

Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 23

Report - Essay Example Notably, with regard to the understanding gained from the study, it can be said that dementia is a term used to describe the syndrome where there is a progressive decline in the ability of a person to function in everyday activities, behavior, thinking and memory owing to the unstable condition of the brain. These changes affect the social, psychological and physical life of an individual with regard to career, family and society (WHO, 2012). Though dementia is not a result of ageing, it certainly affects older age individual more than others. According to the report of the World Health Organization, around 35.6 million people have been diagnosed with dementia worldwide in the recent time. The second resource that was taken into consideration is the report regarding Alzheimer’s disease in Australia, which is a complication relevant to dementia (IAGG, 2011). There are many different forms of dementia and each has its own causes. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 50% to 70% of dementia cases, which is again followed to as vascular dementia (Fight Alzheimer’s Save Australia, n.d.). Again, Lewy body dementia and Fronto Temporal Lobar Degeneration dementia is other forms or complications relevant to dementia. The resource mainly contains the difference in memory changes amid a person with dementia and an older person. The next resource that has been developed is a brochure regarding Alzheimer’s organization about ‘five simple steps to maximize your bra in health’. The steps include taking care of the heart, physical activity, brain activity, healthy diet and social activity to further stabilize the health of the brain (Australian Indigenous Health, 2013). The fourth resource was published by the National Health Institute, 2010 on the Biological Basis of Behavioral Symptoms in Dementia. It contains both biological and psychological aspects of health. The biological

Public Sector Accounting Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Public Sector Accounting - Research Paper Example In respect to accounting there are differences in objectives of accounting process between public and private sectors. In addition, this paper identifies some of the critical differences in accounting between public and private sectors. Amongst such differences identified is measurement of performance through profits, as well as rate or return as in the case of private sector, which is lacking in the public sector. Other than the critical differences, this paper identifies accounting differences that emanate from the financial control aspect, whereas legislators or parliament financially controls public sectors, private sectors are financially controlled by the shareholders. Another important difference identified is the aspect of spending as public sectors unlike private sectors do not have a choice but to spend. Lastly, the paper identifies the auditing aspect of accounting, which differs in these two sectors in respect to its objectives. From the discussion, the paper concludes th at the differences in accounting stem from varied management and control aspects of public and private sectors. Introduction Public sector refers to national, regional and local governments, in addition to various institutional units that are governed and controlled by governments of different nations or economies. Private sector, on the other hand, is composed of institutions that are neither governed nor controlled by the government (Jorge, 2008). The management and control of such organizations lie in the hands of private individuals and not the government. Given the differences in management and control of the public and private sector, many other differences stem particularly with regards to operations, accounting, and investments. In terms of operations, whereas private sector is driven by the need to make profits, public sector is non-profit but is driven by ensuring that the citizens of a country obtain all the public goods and services at minimal costs (Kieso, Weygandt & Wa rfield, 2011). The following is an evaluation of the accounting differences between the public/government sector and private sector. Differences in accounting between the Public Sector/Government and Private sector Differences in accounting between the public and private sector stem from their management and control. Firstly, there are differences in the objectives of accounting between public and private sectors (Lienert, 2009). In private sector the objectives of accounting amongst other things include informing stakeholders about performance of the business, providing possible investors information, aiding management decision making, and increasingly informing regulators. Public sector on the other hand has different accounting objectives (Jorge, 2008). Amongst the traditional accounting objectives in public sector include providing financial summary, enabling a detailed comparisons of spending to be made with proposed budget, allowing identification of spending so as to ensure c ompliance with law and other legal authorities, and providing the basis for the next budget. Nonetheless, in the modern perspective this has greatly changed where public sector engages in accounting for the purposes of informing stakeholders, providing possible investors with creditworthiness information, aid in management, identifies assets and liabilities, as well as facilitates democracy transparency (Kieso, Weygandt

Does Thomas Jefferson Deserve to Be Honored in American History Term Paper

Does Thomas Jefferson Deserve to Be Honored in American History - Term Paper Example Jefferson was an influential member of the Continental Congress and was an important founding father. When the American Revolution began Jefferson was already part of the Continental Congress being the representative of Virginia. During the revolution Jefferson assumed the position of wartime Governor of Virginia (1779 to 1781) and was barely able to escape capture at the hands of British troops in 1781. He became the third president of the United States of America in 1801 and continued to 1809 amongst a series of bitter sweet political and military decisions that have received appreciation and criticism alike (Ellis). Jefferson has often been accused of copying other people’s ideas (such as those of Locke) when drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It must be borne in mind that Jefferson himself stated that the document was â€Å"meant as a statement of the prevailing sentiments† amongst Americans at that point in time. To expect Jefferson to monopolize the contents of such an important and integral historical document would be a far greater sin than his admission that the ideas carried in the document were borrowed. In drafting the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson was merely trying to reflect on the state of current polity on the American continent and not trying to be a â€Å"creative director† of the American Revolution (Malone). Another of Jefferson’s more important actions was his drafting of the Virginia Statutes for Religious Freedom in 1777 which can be seen as the founding document for the cherished American ideals of liberation and freedom. As a result of this document the Church was separated from the State and it served as a precedent for others to follow. Religious liberation at such an early stage in the nascent American nation’s history helped America to avoid the costly and meaningless religious wars that were still being fought on the European continent. Jefferson was denounced as a â€Å"g odless heathen† by a number of his contemporaries because of this document and its implications but he waded through this mess in order to offer the nation religious liberation. Such actions on the part of Jefferson cannot be downplayed as they represented a large initiative for a society that derived its roots from some nuances of religion. Moreover Jefferson was instrumental in setting up the University of Virginia in 1819 which was aimed at upgrading the existing levels of higher education in the United States. Similarly Jefferson’s purchase of the Louisiana Territory from France near doubled the size of the United States although the entire transaction is mired in controversy (Wilentz). Jefferson was not open to the idea of such a large purchase for largely political reasons but he nonetheless went ahead with the purchase at the insistence of his advisors and his representatives for the negotiation. Preceding Jefferson’s regime the American shipping industry had to pay large endowments to the Barbary pirates in order to guarantee safe passage in the Mediterranean. However during Jefferson’s regime the demands of the Barbary States assumed ludicrous proportions so Jefferson decided to pursue hard military action against the pirates in order to quell the problem. Jefferson’s decision to pursue military action set the tone for future American engagement in global

Women's History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Women's History - Essay Example Even in cabinet or parliaments, women are underrepresented. It should be noted that population wise, the number of women in this world is more than the number of men. Yet they were deprived of equal opportunities in political circles with men. The conditions of the women were not so good in the past also. It should be noted that slavery and other social evils were prevailing not only in America but also in other parts of the world during past few centuries. Slavery was hyperactive during the period 1600-1820. Women community struggled more than male community because of slavery related problems as well as other social evils. Participation in politics was only a distant dream for women during the past. This paper analyses the political roles of women during the period 1600-1820. Carol Berkin in her article, â€Å"The Effect of Slavery on African American Women Lives† clearly explains the social and political life of women in America during 1600-1820. ‘Denied by any legal abilities to control the conditions of their life, women labored according to their master’s demands. Women were vulnerable to brutal punishments and to the separation of their families. They had no choice but to accept the marginal food and clothing† (â€Å"Berkin, p.59). These facts clearly illustrate the typical lives of black women during the period of 1600-1820 in America. Many people have the illusion that the conditions of white women was so good in America during this period. In fact white women also faced lot of discriminations during this period even though they never faced harsh experiences as faced by the black women explained above. When talking about women in Africa and other countries of the global south (formerly known as the Third World), feminists often point out that these women must manage multiple forms of disadvantage or oppression. Not only do they suffer the universal subordination shared by women across the world, but also they must contend wit h living in poorer or less-developed countries(Women, Politics, and Power, p.27). Even today, African women are leading pathetic life compared to women in other parts of the world. They were forced to look after their family single handedly. African males treat their counterparts as inferior citizens. They never allow women to work in the mainstreams of social or political life. The case is not much different in Asia or Europe. In all these regions, the participation of women in politics was negligible during 1600-1820. Women all over the world started to get some kind of recognition in politics from the latter parts of 19 th century onwards. Women’s modern-day participation in politics begins with the acquisition of voting rights (suffrage). The first country to fully enfranchise women, and the only country to give women’s suffrage in the 19th century, was New Zealand in 1893. In 1902, Australia was the second country to give women’s suffrage and was followed b y a variety of Western and Eastern European states. By 1945, 46% of the world’s countries allowed women to vote (Women, Politics, and Power, p.16). These statistics clearly suggest that women started to get voting rights only during the latter periods of 19 th century. Before that, it was unimaginable for women to think in terms of participating in politics. Discrimination against women was evident even in some of the most civilized societies during the 1600-1820 period. Women were used only for the reproductive work during this period. In majority of the countries, women were treated as commodities rather than human beings in this period. It should not be forgotten that the conditions of women is not so good even at present in some of the Middle Eastern countries. Even

HR Training and Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

HR Training and Development - Essay Example should be to make sure that the employees follow a certain standard operating procedure within the workplace and they must not adhere to any other specifications than what have been told by the organization. The training procedures need to be elaborate covering all necessary details in such a manner that there is enough learning for everyone. The training regimes therefore bank on the experience which has been gained and which shall be used for the betterment of the employees in the long run (McCracken, 2005). The effectiveness of the training programs is significant and this can be gauged through the productivity shown by the employees once they implement these training realms within their respective quarters. This means that the different tangents behind these training modules would ask for a better understanding of the employees as per their work measures and how they are able to showcase their strengths and weaknesses as and when

Incident Analysis and Development Plan Essay Example for Free

Incident Analysis and Development Plan Essay In my previous assignments I have attempted to shed some light on the 3 capabilities which I have identified; which were namely the Leadership skills, Knowledge skills and the Interpersonal Management skills. Each of these 3 skills is crucial for a good manager and each holds its own significance in the building of a solid character. For the purpose of this research paper, I will be concentrating on the Leadership and Interpersonal Management skills upon which I have already talked about before. Harnessing these two characteristics would help growth on the individual level and gives an insight into a person’s overall character as viewed from some external source. Incident Analysis Leadership is a value arousing skill (Heifetz, 1994). Recalling any such moment where I have taken the mantle of leadership I would most definitely have to quote of my academic experiences. Groups and teams are a fact of life during one’s academic years and in said groups and teams there are often conflicts arising which without the presence of a team leader, lead to failed deadlines, substandard work quality and overall unpleasantness among team members (Maister, 2002). I can clearly recall the last time I was part of a group and it was in said group that I got a chance to play the role of the team leader. The decision of me being team leader arose due to my past experience in the topic and when the time came to choose the leader from amongst the team-mates I had the expertise in the subject. Even though I was not experienced much in any leadership position, I was able to do a sufficient job as the group leader and it made me appreciate the tough job that it is to lead people towards a single goal so as to make the achievement a shared vision (Purpose of Leadership, 1997). However, one thing I learned was that Leadership is never static as the role of a leader keeps changing in modern times and anybody who has a proficiency in some skill would take on the leader role when work related to his area of specialization arose. Without any leadership there would hardly be any sense of where the team was headed and it would be meaningless progressing further (Kelly, 2007). Interpersonal skills are also very important in recent times as people of every walk of life have to interact with others to get their jobs done. Previously it was the belief that some jobs required very little interaction with other individuals, such as finance related jobs and other desk jobs where the employees would have minimal socializing (Hayes, 2002). But now the field has changed with people interacting with others for the exchange of knowledge, and for socializing purposes. An incident regarding where I had to demonstrate my interpersonal skills arose when while arranging for a charity event for which friends needed help, I had to visit different markets and deal with numerous people over getting sponsors and getting arrangements done. Through the course of this excursion I had to interact with numerous people and demonstrate communication skills which involved interacting with people at all levels, such as common laborers and store owners. This feature of interacting with people at all levels is beneficial in the sense that it helps later to impress employers (Seneca, 2001). Through the course of interacting with people I was able to get some good contacts that would come in fruitful for future use while also overcoming my dread of speaking to strangers and becoming more comfortable talking to people (Hargie Dickson, 2003). Self Assessment Measuring one’s leadership skills, one must first recognize the types of leaders that exist. There is some argument as to whether there are 6 types or 7 types of leaders but personally I prefer to side with the 7 types argument. Based on 5 criteria leaders are placed into the types of the transformational leader, the enforcer, the deal maker, the administrator, the visionary, the serial entrepreneur and the spin doctor (Taffinder). The five factors upon which leaders are determined are: impose context, have conviction, generate critical mass, challenge and change and they make and take risks. With respect to the definitions provided, I would rank myself as an Enforcer. This is due to the fact that I am risk averse when groups are concerned and tend to stick to tested and tried guidelines. I am highly confident when taking actions and try to motivate team members in a manner that they have the feeling to achieve something (Brill Barth, 2008). Â  I avoid taking unnecessary risks since the responsibility of leading a team in my opinion does not permit one the opportunity to take risks. If the risk pays off that’s well and good, but if the risk does not, then the leader is responsible for the outcome of events. This responsibility I believe takes away the liberty that a leader should have and should make him more serious towards leading his followers to attaining the goal (Ball, 2003). Judging anyone’s interpersonal skills is not so easy as it involves feedback from external sources. When others tell one how well they are performing, then one can be any statement regarding the success or failure of it. I would say that I am sufficiently endowed with my interpersonal skills. I would come to the conclusion taking into account the success rate when dealing with others. I have often had to conduct affairs with other external groups and so far I would say that I have done a very good job in carrying out interpersonal dealings. Researchers suggested that self analyzing when related to interpersonal skills should be avoided by researchers since the judgement would always be biased and the answer would be uninfluenced in very rare case (Rubin, Palmgreen, Sypher, Beatty, 2004). This goes back to the point mentioned that since people are unaware as to most of what they do, determining the efficiency of their success in Interpersonal Communication is very hard to do. A concept known as Self Monitoring usually leads to greater success in determining a person’s interpersonal skills. Self Monitoring is a trait exhibited by famous good public speakers, as they were very receptive of their audiences and could adapt their presentation as per the response from the audience. Many politicians such as Bill Clinton for example have been reported to have strong Self Monitoring skills. Viewing myself through outside eyes I have surmised that in the short time that I have become more pro active in interacting with others, I would say that I am quite successful in interacting with people and can easily carry forward a conversation and can entertain and communicate with others effortlessly (Corbin, Corbin, Lindsey, 2007). Â  If compared to the extent required in the managerial world and professional world, I would have to say that the skills I possess are somewhere between acceptable and need slightly more improvement. Since leadership is a situational issue, with leadership sometimes being given and other times not, only time can tell how well one has performed. Some situations require more insight and expertise whereas others are relatively simple as all you have to do is inspire your team and it successfully finishes the task on its own (Drucker, 1995)I have usually encountered the former as I haven’t yet witnessed any intense leadership role where I’d have to make decisions which would lead to greater consequences. Interpersonal skills are essential for any business activity and comparing it to the market levels I would say that some improvement, or refinement, is needed. Even though I am not hopeless with my interpersonal skills, it is still a far away from being absolutely perfect. I believe I possess enough skills to at least get the basic jobs done. Development Plans To improve upon my interpersonal skills, I have decided to listen to the suggestions stated. Smiling more often when talking to others, being more appreciative of others comments, paying more attention to others, practicing active listening (applying stuff that I have learnt through listening to others), bringing people together, trying to resolve conflicts, communicating early, and in a humorous manner, trying to see other people’s perspectives and avoiding complaining are some measures that I plan to adopt in order to improve my interpersonal skills (All Business). Following these tips I plan to become more popular in crowds and become more receptive to others when interacting with them. These tips would help me in making a more favorable impression in front of others and become a popular and pleasurable person to talk to. And that in turn would make communicating with others more easier for me and more often. Currently what I’m lacking due to inexperience with interacting with others would be resolved if I strictly follow these mentioned tips. To develop my leadership style I must first note where I fall behind other successful leaders, and in this case, I have identified that I am highly risk averse and in return wind up hindering group from reaching its full potential. Taking more risks, but with the consent and full information being provided to the group so that they can give their feedback as well, I will try to move towards becoming a Transformational Leader who not only gets the job done, but inspires the followers to think of the goals as their goals as well and have a combined motivation towards the job as well. Conclusion Leadership and interpersonal skills are very important for today’s managers as it is the manager’s job to get the tasks done while keeping a strong healthy relationship between all levels of the employees (Koellner, 2002). Currently I am more than capable of handling the simple situations which may arise on a day to day basis, but to actually handle situations which may affect a larger scale, I need to work harder to build my skills so as to become a Transformational leader (Argyris, 1976), who is the best type of flexible leader, and to have good links which can only be forged if the interpersonal relations I have with others are good. Without strong interpersonal skills, no one can actually get the full whole hearted support from others. A person should seek external opinions to actually gauge where he is standing since these are inherent qualities and people are not qualified enough to correctly identify their skills. References All Business. (n.d.). Ten Ways to Improve Your Interpersonal Skills. Retrieved April 28, 2009, from All Business: http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/careers-career-development/11134-1.html Argyris, C. (1976). Increasing leadership effectiveness. R.E Krieger. Ball, J. (2003). Managing People. Retrieved April 28, 2009, from http://www.accountancy.com.pk/articles.asp?id=54 Brill, F. S., Barth, R. (. (2008). Leading and Learning. Stenhouse Publishers. Corbin, C., Corbin, C. B., Lindsey, R. (2007). Fitness for Life. Human Kinetics. Drucker, P. F. (1995). The Practice of Management. Harper Collins. Hargie, O., Dickson, D. (2003). Skilled interpersonal communication. Routledge. Hayes, J. (2002). Interpersonal skills at work. Routledge.

Personality defined as a consistent behavior pattern

Personality defined as a consistent behavior pattern What is Personality? Figure : Six approaches to PersonalityPersonality can be defined as consistent behavior pattern and intrapersonal processes originating within the individual (Burger, 2008, p. 4). But this being said, there is no single answer how to describe human personality. Personality theorists have different ideas and point out different ways to explain personality. According to Burger (2008) there are six general approaches, which all provides a different focus for explaining personality and the differences in people`s behavior. Burger (2008) identified the psychoanalytic approach, the trait approach, the biological approach, the humanistic approach, the behavioral approach, and the cognitive approach (p. 5). Each approach has been developed by different psychologists, who display different theories about the differences in the way people behave. From this theory researchers branch hypothesis and collect data that either support or do not support the hypothesis and their theory (Burger, 2008, p.5). Within the framework of this final enclosure I will only dwell on theories of the psychoanalytic approach, the trait approach, and humanistic approach. Approaches and Theories The Psychoanalytic Approach The psychoanalytic approach concentrates on the people`s unconscious minds, which are primary accountable for important differences in their behavior pattern (Burger, 2008, p. 5).That means, that people`s behavior is affected by past experiences that are left in people`s unconscious mind. People are not aware of these minds. In common the psychoanalytic approach places a huge emphases on these unconscious processes in order to explain human behavior. The Freudian Theory of Personality Freud Discovers the Unconscious Sigmunf Freud developed the first widespread theory of personality and psychoanalysis. After working with hypnosis to help patients suffering from hytsteria, Freud realized the huge impact of unconscious minds on human behavior (Burger, 2008, p. 68). As a therapy, psychoanalysis is based on the concept that individuals are unaware of many factors that cause their behavior and emotions. These unconscious factors have the capability to produce unhappiness. This unhappiness could be expressed through noticeable symptoms, which can includes worrying personality nature, difficulty in social relationships or unrest in self-esteem. To get at the unconscious minds of a person, Freudian psychologists use projective tests, free association, hypnosis and dream interpretation to bring the unconscious source of the client`s problems into awareness (Burger, 2008, p. 69). According to Freud`s topographic model, human personality can be parceled into conscious (thoughts people are aware of), preconscious (thoughts, that can be brought into awareness with little difficulty) and unconscious (is the material, to which people are unaware and have no immediate access) parts (Burger, 2008, pp. 44-45). Freud also generated the structural model which divides personality in id (selfish part, concerned only with satisfying personal desires; totally unconscious), ego (to satisfy id impulses, but in a manner that takes into consideration realities of the situation; partly conscious) and superego (represents moral, values and standards; totally conscious). Regarding to Freud, a healthy personality is one in which the ego controls the id impulses and superego demand (Burger, 2008, pp. 45-47). Application to business environment Freud`s theory of subconscious playes an important role in business environment for example by doing marketing and advertsing measures as well as by designing and producing consumer`s products. According to Zaltman (2003) the subconscious mind of the market`s consumer is the place where most purchasing decisions are made. The marketers have to understand the consumer`s thinking, behavior and attitudes in order to satisfy the consumer`s desires and needs. One-on-one interviews that are enriched by using various techniques from clinical psychology and sociology can bear further insights into unconscious consumer thinking, which can for example help to identify new product opportunities (Zaltman, 2003). The cognitive unconscious involves memory, attention, information processing, the nature of human universals, and socially shared cognitions. Zaltman patented 1995 the Zaltman Metaphor Elicitation Technique (ZMET), a market research tool by using interviews and analysis to uncover the re levant fundamental structures that guide peoples thinking about a topic. (Wikipedia, 2010). Associations of consumers can be effectively identified and then used in advertising and marketing measures to help marketers communicate more effectively to consumers about a brand, product, or topic. Because of the global market and the increasing competition it is more and more important to understand the consumer`s behavior and needs. Relating to Zaltman (2003), therefore the marketers have to acquire advanced knowledge about consumer`s behavior and their unconscious minds in order to use this knowledge to benefit consumers. The Freudian Theory of Defense Mechanisms According to Freud ´s theory of a healthy personality the ego tries to find compromises between the unconscious id impulse and conscious superego demand. Therefore the ego often uses defense mechanism to deal for example with unwanted thoughts or desires as well as to reduce or avoid anxiety by keeping this material out of consciousness (Burger, 2008, p. 68). Freud`s defense mechanism, in order to cope with these unwanted thoughts, desires or anxiety, are for example repression (threatening material is pushed by the ego out of consciousness), sublimation (threatening unconscious impulse are channeled into socially acceptable action), displacement (channeling impulse to nonthreatening objects), denial (refusing to accept, that facts exist), reaction formation (acting in a manner opposite to the unconscious desires), intellectualization (considering something in a intellectual unemotional manner to bring difficult thoughts into consciousness without anxiety), and projection (projecti ng impulse onto another person) (Burger, 2008, pp 48-50). According to Burger (2008, p. 78) Freud identified the defense mechanism repression as the cornerstone of psychoanalysis. Investigators measure defense mechanisms by interpreting responses to Rorschach inkblots, stories, Thematic Apperception Test, picture cards (Burger, 2008, pp. 79-80) Application to business environment Also in the business environment defense mechanism play an important role. Day to day Managers and employees try to satisfy their needs for example achievement, job satisfaction, responsibility, self-esteem and self-actualization. They also try to avoid situations, in which they feel dissatisfied, threaten, unhappy, depressed, weak or anxious. Managers and employees use defense mechanism, which we are not aware of, in order to manipulate unlikely situation to feel satisfied, productive, respected and accepted. (Schaffer, 1971). Schaffer (1971) identified one of the most common defense mechanism of managers doing all I can in these circumstances illusion. He argues, that most of the managers place a deferral around their own possible cause of action. Within in this borderline, they see themselves as doing everything they can. Managers often see limitation in their scope of initiative because of unmotivated and unqualified employees. Needed improvements are always the job of another manager or employee (Schaffer, 1971). In this way, Manger cope with their fear of failure and uneasiness and use defense mechanism in order to reach their goals. Schaffer (1971) also suggested that managers keep themselves comfortable by keeping busy to avoid doubts about themselves and how things are going. Neo Freudian Theories Freud`s Psychoanalytic Society, as the oldest and most famous approach to explaining human personality, generated a lot of new theories, which retained the unconscious as a key factor to understand different behavior styles. These neo-Freudians mostly agree with Freudian concepts, but they also went on to develop their own theories, in which they pick up the failures of Freud`s Theory like his emphasis on instinctual over social influences and the generally negative picture he painted of human nature. (Burger, 2008, pp. 99) Alfred Adler: Striving for Superiority Alfred Adler concentrated on the concept of striving for superiority to explain differences in human`s behavior and motivation. He argued, that at the beginning of every psychological life is a feeling of inferiority and helplessness, which a person lifelong tries to overcome. Everything a person does, occurs on this struggle in order to establish a sense of superiority over life`s obstacles. (Burger, 2008, pp. 101-102) Adler differed from Freud in the way how he described human motivation. Freud identified, that human behavior is motivated by life/sexual and death/aggressive instincts, whereas Adler identified this striving for superiority as an overall motivational factor (Burger, 2008, p. 101). Application to business environment Regarding to Adler, the reason why we work hard or try to achieve a position of power, is the human`s desire for striving for superiority or success. Due to this fact, Adler saw business success as an expression of superiority striving. He argued, that, the more inferior humans see themselves, the stronger their striving for superiority, which push them to become successful (Burger, 2008, p. 102). Adler also suggested, that successful business people reach a sense of superiority and success through their performances, but only if they achieve their goals with observance for cooperate social responsibility (CSR) and welfare (Burger, 2008, p. 102). Success means to provide consumers with a good product at a fair price that will make everyone`s life a little happier (Burger, 2008, p. 102). This can also involve every kind of CSR activities for example paying employees a fair salary, providing good and safe working conditions, using safe and eco-friendly production and transportation systems, stewardship of available resources, avoiding discrimination as well as unfair competition. In contrast poorly adjusted people express their striving for superiority through selfishness and a concern for personal glory at the expense of others (Burger, 2008, p. 102). Alfred Adler: Birth Order Adler also put their emphasis on the role of birth order in forming personality. He argued that firstborn children differ in their behavior and personality from middle-born and lastborn children (Burger, 2008, p. 103). Relating to Adler problem children, neurotics, criminals, drunkards and perverts are mostly firstborns, as a result of less attention and less pampering by their parents, after a sibling was born. In the opposite middle-born children develop a strong superiority striving, because they are always used to have another sibling and they are never granted the luxury of being pampering. Adler believed, that lastborn children are pampered throughout their whole childhood, which can lead to a high dependency from others and a strong feeling of inferiority (Burger, 2008, p. 104). In common the middle-born children were the most achieving and were less vulnerable to psychological dysfunction than the firstborns or lastborns (Burger, 2008, p. 127). Application to business environment Nowadays there are widespread beliefs in science and economy, that birth order is an important determinant of personality, intelligence, and economic success. Ben Dattner , a professor and notable consultant in New York, argued, that sibling dynamics play an important role in how you sell yourself in the workplace, based on the time, attention, love and resources your parents devoted to you (as cited in Bolch, 2007). According to Dattner, firstborn children are likely extroverted and confident, but they are also worried about losing their position or intrigue and stave off failings and mistakes. He argued, that middle-born children are likely diplomatic, are good at negotiation and are very peace-loving persons, who are closer to friends than to family. In his eyes, the most achieving-orientated are the only children, who are always trying to acknowledge their parents` forecasts and requirements. (Bolch, 2007). Scher, the CEO of a marketing services company, argued, that they found out, that a lot of their best employees were lastborn children, who could negotiate and knew how to communicate (as cited in Bolch, 2007). But finally, the common perception is, that the birth order could have a impact on human`s personality and behavior , but there are any more various factors, which have an huge impact on a person`s development or business success. For example gender, culture, socioeconomic factors, divorces, remarriages and so on (Bolch, 2007). Carl Jung: Collective Unconscious According to Carl Jung, all human inherit basically the same unconscious material (from past generations) and psychic characteristics, which Jung called the collective unconscious (Burger, 2008, p. 105).This collective unconscious houses primordial images, called archetypes. The most interesting archetypes are the anima (the feminine side of the male), the animus (the masculine side of the female) and the shadow (contains the negative and dark side of human`s personality) (Burger, 2008, p. 106). Jung argued, that there are as many archetypes as there are typical situations in life (as cited in Burger, 2008, p.106). He described these archetypes as a certain answer to the world and it`s situations (Burger, 2008, p. 106). Application to business environment Richardson (2007) focused on the power of Jungian hero archetypes in consumer brand building. He argued, that the archetypes are a powerful tool for mass marketing and brand building and which are successfully used to influence human behavior through story telling in the form of myths (Richardson, 2007). This could help to sell and advertise a company`s products and services in order to create brand recognition and loyal customers. Richardson (2007) argues, that increasing competition is the reason why companies concentrated on consumer`s unconsciousness and their archetypes in order to analyze and influence consumer`s behavior and attitudes. For example, Marlboro used the archetypical hero, the Marlboro Man, to advertise their cigarettes. As a result, Marlboro was ranked as the worlds No. 1 most valuable brand, which clearly supported the power of hero-archetype advertising and drove competitors to try to employ archetypes as well (Richardson, 2007). Erik Erikson: Personality Development through Life Cycle Erikson argued, that personality development persists through a person`s lifetime (Burger, 2008, p. 111). He defined eight stages, all people have to go through. At each stage people are faced with a crisis and two different ways (one is intelligent and suitable, the other not) to cope with the crisis (Burger, 2008, p. 111). The way we pass through each crisis, influences and determines the rout of march of our personality development and how we cope with later crisis.(Burger, 2008, p. 111).According to Erikson a person`s life cycle started from infancy to old age. C:UsersTanjaDesktopErik Erikson.bmp Figure : Erikson`s Eight Stages of Development (Burger, 2008, p.112) When a person complete a stage successfully, this could lead to a healthy personality with good social skills. Failure could result in a disorder of personality and could reduce the ability to cope with later crisis (Burger, 2008, p. 112). Application to business environment Erik Erikson`s personality development through life cycle is also applicable to career development in business. According to Munley (1977) Eriksons theory helps to understand the developmental nature of job-related behavior. He argues, that the development of basic senses of initiative, industry, identity, generativity, and integrity all seem to be especially relevant to career development behavior (Munley, 1977, p. 263). Erikson analyzed the crisis of the ego identity at the adolescence stage, which inherits a human`s conscious about who he is and where he is going. According to Munley (1977), Erikson recognized the huge impact of occupational choice as a part of the identity crisis. He argues, that most of the young people are confused by the irresolution to choose an occupational identity (Munley, 1977). A person without a sense of identity and the conscious how he fits into society may likely be unable in terms of job-related choice and career decision making. In the opposite a person with a strong sense of ego identity will be more able to make suitable vocational decisions and choices in order to become successful in business world (Munley, 1977). Karen Horney: Feminine Psychology Karen Horney argued, that differences in men`s and women`s personality are the consequences of cultural and social factors (Burger, 2008, p, 116). According to Freud`s theory, young girl likely has the desire to have penis in their latency stage, which inherits feelings of inferiority and jealously because of its absence (Burger, 2008, p. 54). In respond to this penis envy, Horney identified the concept of womb envy, which is the men`s jealously of women`s ability to bear and nurse children, which men try to compensate by becoming successful in other domains (Burger, 2008, p. 120). Application to business environment Relating to Horney, there are attributes of men and women, which the other sex admires (Burger, 2008, p. 120). She also argued, that society often placed women in inferior positions, which could be the reason, why some women wish to be a men (Burger, 2008, p. 120). Even though, nowadays society, labor market, business environment and law seem to treat men and women equally, discrimination against women still exists. According to a study of Johnson et al. (2010), beautiful women were discriminated against when applying for high-level job positions for example a manager, director or leader position, which are almost identified as masculine jobs. Johnson et. al (2010) argued, that attractive women are always preferred in feminine sex-typed jobs, which inherits for example higher salary and better performance evaluations. But in return, there are still men dominated and masculine sex-typed jobs, in which women are still disadvantaged (Johnson et al., 2010). Aggression and Frustration Freud was the first psychologist, who focused on the association between frustration and aggression (Burger, 2008, p. 137). He identified aggression as a consequence of frustrated instincts. According to Freud all of the persons have an instinctual desire to destroy themselves, whereby the instinct is turned outward towards others (Burger, 2008, p.137). Later, based on Freud`s original position, the frustration-aggression hypothesis was created by a team of psychologists. They argued, that aggression is always a consequences of frustration and frustration will always leads to some form of aggression (Burger, 2008, p. 137). Relating to Burger (2008) frustration can often effect indirect aggression. Freud argued, that people usual displace their (indirect) aggression against some harmless target in order to deal with their aggression or feelings of frustration (Burger, 2008, pp. 137-138). The frustration-aggression hypothesis was largely analyzed in various studies, which for example f ond out, that frustrated people were more aggressively than non-frustrated people or that unpleasant emotions increased aggression (Burger, 2008, pp. 138-141). As a result new models of frustration-aggression hypothesis were created, which expressed, that frustration does not always result in aggression (Burger, 2008, p. 141). Application to business environment Nowadays, the relationship between frustration and aggression can be seen in various social contexts. Neuman Baron (1997) for example analyzed the impact of aggression in workplace. They described aggression as a harm-doing pattern, which includes psychological and physical injury (Neuman Baron, 1997).They categorized eight types of workplace aggression (Neuman Baron, 1997). C:UsersTanjaDesktopaggression 1.JPGC:UsersTanjaDesktopaggression2.JPG Figure : Eight Types of Workplace Aggression (Neuman Baron, 1997, p. 40) Neuman Baron (1997) identified for example destruction of machinery and goods, work slowdowns, passing on defective work and intentionally misplacing of important paperwork as acts of sabotage in the workplace. Reasons for workplace aggression can be worker frustration (because of unfair salary or mobbing, downsizing and increasing number of part time jobs), stress and emotional disturbance (Neuman Baron, 1997). In order to cope with workplace aggression Neuman Baron (1997) suggested different tactic for example (1) creating procedures to select potentially aggressive employees, (2) punishing aggressive employees, (3) developing strategies to reduce feelings of frustration and injustice and (4) providing training programs, which involves improving employee`s social skills, providing coping strategies and alternatives to aggression. The Trait Approach According to Burger, the researchers of this approach focus on a spectrum of different personality characteristics (Burger, 2008, p. 5). The trait approach argues, that each person fits into a personality category, which inherits a certain pattern of behavior, that differs from the behavior of other categories (Burger, 2008, p. 155). Henry Murray`s Psychogenic Needs Henry Murray analyzed and explained human personality by focusing on psychogenic needs, which he described as a readiness to respond in a certain way under certain given conditions ( as cited in Burger, 2008, p. 161). Relating to Carl Jung, Murray argued, that this personal hierarchy of needs mainly exists in human`s unconsciousness (Burger, 2008, p. 161). C:UsersTanjaDesktopUnbenannt.JPG C:UsersTanjaDesktopUnbenannt2.JPG Figure : Murray`s Psychogenic Needs (Ewen, 1980) Application to business environment Murray`s theory of psychogenic needs is quite useful in order to motivate employees. According to Gray (1998), the most important motivational factor for small business owners and self-employees are their strong sense of autonomy and independency. He found out, that the need for independency is the main reason for new business owners to start up their business (Gray 1998, p. 137). Gray (1998) also analyzed the motivational impact of the need for achievement on manager`s behavior, performance and success. He also identified achievement as a multidimensional factor in the term of managerial characteristics, which involves for example work ethic, pursuit excellence, social status and respect as well as dominance, competitiveness, acquisitiveness and mastery (Gray, 1998, p.134). The Big Five The Big Five model describes five dimensions of personality, which are used to explain human`s personality and differences in human`s behavior. The Big Five model is based on Raymond Cattell`s effort to describe the basic dimensions of personality by analyzing data from different sources with factor analyses (Burger, 2008, p. 165). According to Burger (2008) different teams of researchers found, via factor analysis, the evidence for five basic dimensions of personality (Burger, 2008, p.165). This model is a descriptive model for personality, which involves the most common used dimensions (1) Neuroticism, (2) Extraversion, (3) Openness, (4) Agreeableness and (5) Conscientiousness (Burger, 2008, pp. 165-167). Burger (2008) argued, that although people may identify personality as if all traits can be clustered to five dimensions, the Big Five model may not exactly capture the complexities and intricacies of human personality (Burger, 2008, p. 169). Application to business environment Employers realized the importance of personality testes for hiring and promoting employees. By using the five larger personality dimensions, employer try to analyze the relationship of employee`s personality and job performance. Researchers identified the factor Conscientiousness under the Big Five factors as the best predictor of job performance (Burger, 2008, p. 175). According to Burger (2008) high conscientious employees are likely careful, thorough, well organized, hardworking, persistent and achievement-orientated. People with these attribute tend to become a good and diligent employee. Type A, Hostility and Health Medical professionals identified the Type A Type B behavior pattern by noticing that the behavior of heart attack patients differ from other patient`s behavior (Burger, 2008, p. 201). Typical Type A persons are high achievement-orientated, energetic and powerful, attracted to competition, easily aroused to anger and action and don ´t like wasting time. In return Type B people are relaxed and unhurried, don`t like to seek competition or to be aroused to anger or action (Burger, 2008, p. 202). Type A primary differ from Type B in various behavior tendencies for example the sense of achievement striving, time urgency and hostility. The most significant component of Type A people is their expression of frustration through anger and hostility (Burger, 2008, p. 202). Investigators argued, that high-anger and high-hostility patients are fortified hit by high blood pressure, heart and cardiovascular disease (Burger, 2008, pp. 204- 205). But according to Burger (2008) Type A persons are not necessarily unhealthy, if they are able not to be dragged down by minor rebounds and little frustrations (Burger, 2008, p. 206). Application to business environment A Manger`s working day is filled with various numbers of appointments, meetings, phone-calls, negotiations, responsibility and decision makings. Managers wake up early and they mostly have no time to eat or sleep. They are full of energy, high-achievement orientated, enjoy power and recognition and are strongly motivated to overcome obstacles. These are all characteristics of a Type A personality (Burger, 2008, pp. 201-203). Larson (2009) also mentioned in his article How personality can influence success the following characteristics of Type A personality: always in a hurry, multi-tasking, teeth grinding, tendency to interrupt, fast eater, talker, frequently lose sleep, aggressiveness, inability to relax. He argued, that Type As seem to be strong leaders, have the ability to work well under pressure and are able to ensure that all work is accomplished in a timely manner. According to Larson (2009) Type A persons are also often entrepreneurial, good delegators and are able to react quickly. Due to this fact, I postulate the hypothesis Managers are almost Type A persons, which has to be tested or confirmed by already existing studies. Characteristics of Socially Anxious People Shyness, feelings of nervousness, inability to concentrate, worrying about to say something wrong or stupid, cut conversations short or avoid them and less self-confidence are all characteristics of socially anxious people (Burger, 2008, pp. 206-210). According to Burger (2008) social anxiety is anxiety related specifically to social interactions or anticipated social interactions (p. 206). Relating to different researchers, the reason why people become anxious is, that they worry about what other people think of them (Burger, 2008, p. 210). Shy and socially anxious people fear, that other people think poorly of them or that they disgrace themselves. Burger (2008) argued, that the shy person`s interaction style is a kind of self-protection, because they put all their efforts on making a good impression. (Burger, 2008, pp. 210-211). Application to business environment Cuncic (2010) postulated, that social anxiety disorder has an huge impact on humans` workplace and career. He argued, that social anxiety in workplace will be reflected by the inability to network effectively, the fear of attending business social events, the difficulty to develop relationships with coworkers, the lack of self-confidence, and difficulty to speak up in meetings (Cuncic, 2010). According to Carducci, a psychology professor at Indiana University, when shyness is properly managed, there will be no limit to the achievement of shy people in the business world (as cited in Cuncic, 2010). The Humanistic Approach The humanistic approach focus on humans` feelings of self-acceptance, self-esteem and personal charge to identify and explain personality and differences in personal behavior (Burger, 2008, p. 5). According to Burger (2008) a key distinction between the humanistic approach and other theories of personality is that people are assumed to be largely responsible for their actions (p. 288). Humanistic researchers identified and concentrated on 4 key elements in order to identify human`s personality. Humanistic scientist focused on (1) the personal responsibility, (2) the here and now, (3) the phenomenology of the individual and (4) the personal growth (Burger, 2008, pp.290-292). Abraham Maslow`s Hierarchy of Needs Maslow identified five levels of needs, which he arranged in a hierarchy of needs. These needs are (1) physiological, (2) safety, (3) social, belongingness and love, (4) esteem and (5) self-actualization (Burger, 2008, p. 300). He argued, that the lower levels` needs have to be satisfied before a higher-level need comes into play. C:UsersTanjaAppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsTemporary Internet FilesContent.Wordmaslows_hierarchy_businessballs.jpg Figure : Maslow`s Hierarchy of Needs (Chapman, 2001) 1.The physiological needs These needs are the biological needs and consist of the human body`s primary needs, such as foods, water, air, sleep, sex. These needs will dominate when they are unsatisfied and they serve the basis for motivation (Burger, 2008, p. 299). 2. The safety needs Maslow argued, that people are also motivated by satisfying their safety needs. Safety needs include protection from physical harm, ill health, economic disasters or when the future is not predictable (Burger, 2008, pp. 299-300). 3. Social needs When physical and safety needs are satisfied, the next higher level of needs assumes importance. These needs are related to the social nature of people and their need for love, belongingness and companionship. According to Burger (2008) while the satisfaction of the psychological and safety needs will not guarantee happiness, the need for friendship and love soon emerges (p. 300). Dissatisfaction of this level of need may affect the mental health of the individual. 4. Esteem needs The need for both awareness of importance to others (self-esteem) and actual esteem from others is included. Satisfaction of these needs may lead to self-confidence and prestige. If the satisfaction of these needs will failure, this may lead in feelings of inferiority and disincentives (Burger, 2008, p. 301). 5. Need for self-actualization That means, that people will realize fully the potentialities of talents and capabilities. Maslow argued, if all other lower needs are satisfied, people will try to reach self-actualization and focus on developing themselves. He also suggested, that only a few people will reach the level of self-actualization (Burger, 2008, p. 301). Application to business environment

Todays Mafia Essay -- essays papers

Todays Mafia Although many arrests have been made, organized crime and the Mafia are still very active. Organized crime and its families, particularly the Italian mafia, have increased their illegal activities significantly over the past few decades. The Mafia and organized crime go hand and hand, one cannot be spoken without the other. Both of these forms of criminal actions have been recognized since the late 1800's, and police say it is not disappearing too fast.(Widener 6) Migration from Italy, has brought over many Italian criminals and crime tactics. The Italian Mafia has always been based on the island of Sicily and the southern mainland provinces of Calabria and Campania. (Worsnop 273) Traffic in drugs, chiefly heroin, provides the bulk of the Italian Mafia's revenue from Sicily. Cocaine is becoming more important, however, as drug lords from Colombia try to expand beyond the Americas. To gain a foothold in Europe, the Colombians have got to strike deals with the Mafia, which ironically guards its home turf. (273) Italy in general, has added to the crime list of the Mafia for over 100 years. The famous Al Capone, the Italian-American gangster of the Prohibition era, also known as Scarface because of a knife cut to his cheek. (Nash 79) He was born Alphonse Capone in Naples, Italy, and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He left school at an early age and spent nearly ten years "hanging-out" with gangs. In the 1920's he took over a Chicago organization dealing in illegal liquor, gambling, and prostitution from the gangster Johnny Torrio. (80) Convicted of income tax evasion in 1931 and sentenced to 11 years in prison, he was released in 1939. After obtaining syphilis, he went on to reside in Miami Beach, Florida. (80) Many Italian families are a major influence on the organized crime melting pot. Families such as the Colombo's, the Gambino's, the Bannanno's, and the Luchesse's have migrated from Italy, and play an important role in the organized crime system. (Worsnop 267) The Colombo family, which consists of approximately 100 members is currently led by Victor Orena. Victor is currently acting as boss due to the absence of Carmine Persico, who is serving a prison sentence for racketeering. (268) The Colombo families main activities include loan sharking, gambling, smuggling, and narcotics. This family guides much of its attenti... ...ses squirm under the heel of the mob." , 8 Jan. 1997. Eleanor Goldstein. Boca Raton, FL: Social Issues Resources Ser., 1997. Crime vol. 1 art. 99. Inman, William H. "The Mob in the Sun Belt." , 26 Jan, 1993: E1+ . Ed. Eleanor Goldstein. Boca Raton, Fl: Social Issues Resources Ser.,1997 Crime vol., 3 art. 66. Nash, Robert. Organized Crime the Whole Story, New York: Da Capo, 1992. World Encyclopedia of Organized Crime, New York: Da Capo, 1990. Luciano. Soon he was arrested for extortion, theft, and murder. While in jail a brain tumor was discovered on the left side of his brain and he died in 1967. Ragle, Larry. Crime Scene, New York: Avon Books, 1995. Sifakis, Carl. The Encyclopedia of American Crime, New York: Smithmark, 1992. Trimble, Alan, "Top Sicilian Mafia boss gives evidence." Reuters 23 Aug. 1996. CD News from Newsbank, Inc. Wiedner, Sandra. "A deal America must Refuse.", April 1986: 22+ . Ed. Eleanor Goldstein. Boca Raton, FL: Social Issues Resources Ser.,1997 Crime vol., 3 art. 19. Worsnop, Richard, "Mafia Crackdown." 27 March 1992. Ed. Eleanor Goldstein, Boca Raton, FL: Social Issues Resources Ser., 1997. Corrections vol.4, art.86.

Why Religion Is Important Essay -- Why Study Religion?

"You cannot believe in God until you believe in yourself." -- Swami Vivekananda "I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn't, than live as if there isn't and to die to find out that there is." -- Albert Camus In this essay, I will explore the religious experience in general and some of its variations around the world. The focus will be on the types of religious beliefs and religious leaders, especially in small-scale societies. An exploration of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, or any other major religion is beyond the scope of this essay. The approach taken is that of cultural relativity--religious practices or beliefs are not evaluated in terms of their "correctness" or "sophistication" but, rather, in terms of their function within the societies that have them. What is Religion? A religion is a system of beliefs usually involving the worship of supernatural forces or beings. Religious beliefs provide shape and meaning to one's perception of the universe. In other words, they provide a sense of order in what might otherwise be seen as a chaotic existence. Religions also provide understanding and meaning for inexplicable events such as a loved one being killed in an earthquake or some other unpredictable force of nature. For most religious people, their beliefs about the supernatural are at the very core of their world views. Rituals in Religion The performance of rituals is an integral part of all religions. Rituals are stylized and usually repetitive acts that take place at a set time and location. They almost always involve the use of symbolic objects, words, and actions. For example, going to church on Sunday is a common religious ritual for Christians around the... ...what is right and wrong behavior. If individuals do the right things in life, they may earn the approval of the gods. If they do the wrong things, they may suffer supernatural retribution. For instance, the most sacred text of Islam, the Koran, not only provides detailed lists of specific kinds of crimes and appropriate earthly punishments, but it also gives descriptions of how to do mundane tasks such as eating specific kinds of food. The sacred texts of religions usually set precedents for proper behavior in common situations. The Judeo-Christian Bible stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Able, Noah, Job, Moses, Solomon, and even Jesus provide examples of how virtuous people should lead their lives. It does not matter whether the sacred stories or myths of a religion actually occurred in every detail--they are still illustrative of correct thought and behavior.

The Uncertainty Of Perception :: essays research papers

The Uncertainty of Perception "Seeing conditions what we believe†¦believing conditions what we see." This observation is the core of society and the substratum of human behavior. Psychological studies have reinforced and proven theories involving the conditioning of humans. However, failure lies in the attempt to assign the causes to a single concept. Among the vast influences for human behavior is our tendency to see what our beliefs would have us to, and hence, believe only what we happen to see. Obviously, my previous statement only obfuscates our attempt to comprehend the intended notion. In order to attain total understanding of the profound thought the quotation develops, I will attempt to analyze and apply it to my experience and knowledge of conditioning. Primarily, I need a concise interpretation of the idea. The contextual definition of see is "to perceive by the eye." Unfortunately, sight, is only one of five senses. Even worse, the images we see through our eyes are s tatistically only one-millionth of our actual reality. Therefore, anything we see is not the entire being or actuality of the world around us but instead a finite perception (by means of vision) of the universe. The technical definition of the other key term, belief, is "a state or habit of mind in which trust or confidence is placed in some person or thing." In context, I will use the typical philosopher's definition and define belief as "the unthinking acceptance of an idea or system of ideas." Philosophically, belief is "blind" and is described as "the process of making a commitment to an idea in order to make that idea work for you." In a selfish sense, it is the process of making ideas true. Transitionally, the quotation can be interpreted as "Our finite perception of reality determines what we will accept as the truth, and what we view as the truth will alter our already limited perceptions of life." Although wordy, a better co nnotation is produced and the coherence of the concept is increased. "Well, now that we have seen each other," said the Unicorn, "if you believe in me, I'll believe in you. Is that a bargain?" writes Lewis Carroll in his piece, Through the Looking-Glass. The situation of the Unicorn and Man appears to be that neither believed in the other because they had never seen the other species, thus illustrating the age-old slogan "Seeing is believing." In today's modern society that maxim is evident. The Uncertainty Of Perception :: essays research papers The Uncertainty of Perception "Seeing conditions what we believe†¦believing conditions what we see." This observation is the core of society and the substratum of human behavior. Psychological studies have reinforced and proven theories involving the conditioning of humans. However, failure lies in the attempt to assign the causes to a single concept. Among the vast influences for human behavior is our tendency to see what our beliefs would have us to, and hence, believe only what we happen to see. Obviously, my previous statement only obfuscates our attempt to comprehend the intended notion. In order to attain total understanding of the profound thought the quotation develops, I will attempt to analyze and apply it to my experience and knowledge of conditioning. Primarily, I need a concise interpretation of the idea. The contextual definition of see is "to perceive by the eye." Unfortunately, sight, is only one of five senses. Even worse, the images we see through our eyes are s tatistically only one-millionth of our actual reality. Therefore, anything we see is not the entire being or actuality of the world around us but instead a finite perception (by means of vision) of the universe. The technical definition of the other key term, belief, is "a state or habit of mind in which trust or confidence is placed in some person or thing." In context, I will use the typical philosopher's definition and define belief as "the unthinking acceptance of an idea or system of ideas." Philosophically, belief is "blind" and is described as "the process of making a commitment to an idea in order to make that idea work for you." In a selfish sense, it is the process of making ideas true. Transitionally, the quotation can be interpreted as "Our finite perception of reality determines what we will accept as the truth, and what we view as the truth will alter our already limited perceptions of life." Although wordy, a better co nnotation is produced and the coherence of the concept is increased. "Well, now that we have seen each other," said the Unicorn, "if you believe in me, I'll believe in you. Is that a bargain?" writes Lewis Carroll in his piece, Through the Looking-Glass. The situation of the Unicorn and Man appears to be that neither believed in the other because they had never seen the other species, thus illustrating the age-old slogan "Seeing is believing." In today's modern society that maxim is evident.

Does the Bangladeshi Worker Community Experience Ill Health more than their White British Counterparts?

1.Abstract For a person to enjoy a good quality of life, remaining strong and healthy is essential. However the ability to retain good health is often affected by a range of diverse factors including ethnicity, living standards, age, occupation and access to medical facilities. The purpose of this research is to investigate whether of people of working age within the Bangladeshi Community are more prone to illness that their counterparts within the White British population. 2.Aims of the Study Research Question: Does the Bangladeshi worker community experience ill health more than their White British counterparts? In order to explore the question of whether Bangladeshi people of working age are more prone to illness when compared to their White British counterparts, I have chosen to address and collect information on the following: The attitudes that Bangladeshi and White British workers have towards ill health The knowledge and awareness that Bangladeshi workers have towards accessing NHS services The ways in which Bangladeshi workers can become more aware of the means of reducing ill health How Bangladeshi workers can be encouraged to make lifestyle changes in order to nurture their health Literature Review The Literature review I conducted has revealed evidence which suggest that Bangladeshi workers are more prone to illness than their White British counterparts. For instance- research conducted by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation in 2007, revealed a significant difference between levels of long- term illness within the White British and Bangladeshi working age communities (Salway et al, 2007). According to the research, 16% of the White British sample suffered from long term illness, compared to 64% of the Bangladeshi sample. There was also a marked difference in the age of onset, with the White British workers within the sample experiencing illness between the ages of 50 and 59, whereas the Bangladeshi sample experienced onset between 34 and 39. The relationship between health and ethnicity has been an area of much debate and exploration amongst academics over the years, and has often been linked to the concept of, â€Å"social exclusion†, an aspect of which relates to the difficulties that some ethnic minorities have in accessing adequate housing, employment, opportunities and public services. ( Purdy and Banks, 2001). Concerns regarding the inequalities that ethnic minorities encounter when accessing welfare service systems created vital legislation in the early 1980s in the form of the â€Å"Black Report†, and addresses inequalities that continue to exist today, â€Å"The Black Report placed emphasis on material explanations for class inequalities in health, which given the class locations of ethnic minority people might also be relevant to ethnic inequalities in health.† ( Nazroo in Bury and Gabe, 2002:145). More recently, research conducted as part of the Fourth National Survey of Ethnic Minorities in 1993 suggested that some Asian groups such as Bangladeshis and Pakistanis are more at risk of experiencing acute heart disease than other ethnicities, an assertion that has been controversial amongst academics, â€Å" While this approach was useful in uncovering the extent to which convenient assumptions of similarity within obviously heterogeneous groups were false, it could be suggested that these findings mean we can use the term, â€Å" Pakistani and Bangladeshi† heart disease, rather than, â€Å" South Asian† heart disease to describe the situation† ( Nazroo in Bury and Gabe, 2004: 147). These insights and others very much informed my opinion as I embarked on this research project. 4.Sample Social Classification, Age, Sample Size, Location and Research Timings: In order to explore a wide range of attitudes towards health, I recruited respondents using a random sampling approach, in order to ensure that a range of attitudes and perspectives were explored. As a result, the sample comprised a wide range of occupation and educational backgrounds and abilities, reflecting all of the categories of present social and market research social classification ( Robson, 2002 ) This form of classification consists of the following: GRADESOCAL CLASSOCCUPATION AUpper Middle ClassSenior Management or Professional BMiddle ClassAssociate Management or Professional C1Lower Middle ClassClerical, admin and support staff C2Skilled Working ClassSkilled manual workers with a formal training or qualifications DUn skilled Working ClassUn skilled manual workers without formal qualifications or training EPeople who exist on low incomes and benefitsCan be anything from casual workers to pensioners In order to construct a sample which reflected the categories in the above table, I recruited respondents at locations regularly frequented by people of all backgrounds, including the Croydon Whitgift Shopping Centre, Croydon High Street and the Croydon Bangladeshi Welfare Association. I recruited 40 respondents in total- which included working people within the Bangladeshi and White British populations, between the ages of 25 and 60. Both male and female respondents are included and research commenced at the beginning of March and concluded at the beginning of May. 5.Research ConsiderationsEthics and Data ProtectionBefore conducting the research, I gained the approval and permission of both the London Borough of Croydon and the University’s Ethical Review Committee. Prior to questioning the respondents, I explained to them the purpose of the research, how their opinions would inform the findings, and how the findings would be used. I also assured them that their views would remain completely confidential, and that they had the opportunity to opt out of the project at any time they wished to. The questions were also carefully constructed in a manner that would not cause distress or offence, and I made a concerted effort to make them feel comfortable and valued (Bryman, 2012).Limitations and Researcher BiasAs with all research projects, this investigation had certain imperfections and limitations in its design and execution. Above all, the study would most likely have been very different if it had been conducted within a, â€Å"real world research† context without the researcher having to juggle the research work with other priorities such as course work. Also, as the data was collected in one area, it may be regionally biased. However, it should be pointed out that the majority of people within communities experience many similar conditions and socialising factors, which can make, â€Å"snap- shot† studies representative of the larger population valid, and on the whole and much social, commercial and market research is carried out in this manner. Another factor than can affect the reliability of data is the possibility of respondents expressing what they feel researchers want them to hear- therefore modifying or embellishing responses. Whilst this remains an issue in all research projects, it should be pointed out that the rapid answering that quantitative closed questionnaires tends to produce, will most likely make respondents answer bluntly and accurately- without the after-thoughts that inform m uch qualitative work (Robson, 2002). 6.MethodologyData Collection MethodsThe project used a variety of methodologies including an initial pilot study, primary and secondary methods. Secondary and desk research, including the Literature Review was undertaken in order to create a detailed knowledge of the subject which was to be explored in the research, as well as key hypotheses to be addressed. Additionally, a pilot study was conducted prior to undertaking the fieldwork in order to test the relevance and clarity of the questions and subjects posed to respondents, as a means of making the fieldwork as effective and seamless as possible. During the primary, fieldwork stage of research, I chose to use a mostly quantitative questionnaire with close ended questions, in order to specifically focus on the topics that needed to be explored to satisfy the research objectives. This created a situation in which respondent’s answers were consistently relevant. However in order to ensure that the respondents had the opportunity to express additional issues relating to the topics, I also included several open ended questions- inspired by a more qualitative approach. Data Analysis Methods Once the fieldwork had been completed I chose to use the Statistical Package for Social Sciences or SPSS as a means of analysing the data I had collected. This approach provides several benefits, including the ability to record and log data quickly and to organize it across a range of analytical formats including statistical and multivariative approaches. For presentation purposes, the results were ordered into graphs, charts and tables ( Blaxter, et al, 2011) which aimed to reduce misunderstandings and comprehension issues. 7.Dissemination of Findings and Results The research findings were presented using a short reform format and have been made available to the University for future reference. During the life of the project, I also kept the sponsor up-to-date with the findings as they developed, both in the shape of preliminary insights and the conclusive more detailed final report. I have also passed the findings onto the respondents via email, and have thanked them enormously for their crucial participation in the project.Key Findings:Crucially, the research revealed that minority ethnic respondents experienced aspects of social exclusion, both in terms of accessing mainstream health services and society in general. This is mainly attributed to the lack of English language skills that some of the sample had, as well as cultural issues which result in the secrecy and concealment of health issues, problems and ailments. Within the Bangladeshi sample there was also a tendency for health issues to be internalised within the social and family n etworks of the community itself- which also resulted in a resistance to seeking mainstream NHS support and services. Conclusions The Bangldeshi worker community have a tendency to experience the onset of serious illnesses earlier than their White British counterparts, through a range of behavioural and cultural factors that prevent them from accessing NHS service in a systematic manner that would improve their health. Considerations for Future Research The aim of the research was to provide information and insights relating to why Bangladeshis are prone to ill health, and how public awareness can be raised in order to address their problems. However, during the fieldwork and analysis stage, I was very surprised to the extent that people within the Bangladeshi community conceal their ill health and delay accessing help as a result of strong societal and cultural pressures. Therefore, I have emphasised the need for additional research in the final report, in order to obtain more information on this subject, as a means of devising solutions that can help eradicate such problems. Based on the research that has been conducted so far, I am confident that my data collection and data analysis approaches offer effective means of generating crucial findings- but would also recommend using different methodologies for future research such as qualitative focus groups and face to face interviews. This approach will enable the researcher to get a greater understanding of key issues, and can involve the use of enabling and projective techniques that can enable respondents to express themselves in a clearer manner. ( Robson, 2002). Focus groups and face to face interviews can also provide vital insights on behaviour and practice which is not always possible when using a quantitative approach. (Bryman, 2012). This is often expressed through the recall of certain situations and experiences- which can also serve to create a greater understanding of the contexts of certain situation- for instance, the specific ways in which Bangladeshi people interact with NHS services. 9.Details of Funding The research was budgeted at ?500 and was funded by Research Councils UK ( RCUK). The organisation regularly commissions research within a range of academic disciplines including medical, biological, social, economic and environmental sciences, in order to investigate ways of increasing wellbeing within society. The research I conducted was funded with the intention of finding ways to address the impact of poor health within the Bangladeshi working age community. Bibliography Back, L. Solomos, ( 1995) Race, Politics and Social Change. London: Routledge. Blaxter, L. Hughes, C. Tight, M. (2011) How to Research, 4th ed. Cambridge: Open University Press. Bury, M. (1997) Health and Illness in a Changing Society. London: Routledge. Bury, B. Gabe, J. ( 2004) The Sociology of Health and Illness. London: Routledge. Bryman, A. ( 2012) Social Research Methods. London: Palgrave. Israel, M. and May, I. (2006) Research Ethics for Social Scientists. London: Sage. Purdy, M. Banks D ( 2001) The Sociology of Politics and Health. London: Routledge. Robson, R. ( 2002) Real World Research. London: Blackwell. Salway, S. Platt, L. Chowbey, P. Harriss, K. Bayliss, E. (2007) Long- Term Ill Health, Poverty and Ethnicity. London: Policy Press Zikmund, G. William (2003) Business Research Methods. London: South Western. http://www.jrf.org.uk/publications/long-term-ill-health-poverty-and-ethnicity (Accessed 11th March 2013)