Home work Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Home work - Essay Example Nonetheless, the expos expanded the countries’ economies by opening them up to the international arena (â€Å"China’s Economic Miracle,† 2008). Environmental problems are inherent in the two countries although Japan faced its challenges after war while China experiences environmental problems and challenges to date. Critics point out that China puts economic advancements at the behest of its environment. In effect, this has led to Beijing acquiring the name â€Å"Greyjing† as an indication of the amount of pollution experienced in the city. In a similar way, Japan faced criticism over the photochemical pollution experienced in Tokyo in the early 70s, which was due to industrial developments without considering the consequences on the environment. Despite disparate political institutions, the path towards economic growth in China is similar to the Japanese approach towards growth. Consequently, there is an indication that China may face challenges characterized by a slowdown in its economy, similar to Japan’s, if the country failed to adopt approaches aimed at lessening the effects of an economic slump. In effect, the failure to implement approaches that addressed the challenges faced by an economic slump will ensure that China’s economic progress slowed in a similar way to Japan’s due to their similarities in economic growth. Popularly known as MCB, Monfort College of Business is the leading college in terms of the value it creates. In this case, the college provides an excellent learning environment that was better than the environment provided by its peers. Using high technology to support its curriculum, the college produces graduates by preparing them for the competitive job market in the United States. To achieve this, the college affiliates itself with the business community in order to provide students with hands-on experiences by providing the students a chance to have a professional overview of their future

The Socio Economic Network In Zambia Sociology Essay

The Socio Economic Network In Zambia Sociology Essay To set the platform of discussion, it is significant to define the concept of the family and other related notions. Giddens (2006:206) defines the family as a group of persons directly linked by kin connections, the adult members of which assume responsibility of caring for children. A family may either be a nuclear or extended family. A nuclear family comprises of two adults living together in a household with their own or adopted children. On the other hand an extended family is a group consisting of close relatives extending beyond couple and their children living together with the same household or in a close and continuous relationship with one another. In addition, the family is one of the basic units of society whose function and contribution to society cannot be over emphasized. For instance, for a society to survive over time, certain basic needs must be met. New members must be added to the population to replace those members who have died or moved away. People must be clothed, sheltered and fed. Goods and services must be produced and made available to those who need and desire them. The young must be socialised into society. The elderly and the sick must receive care. Order must be maintained and power must be distributed among the members of society (Thomas 1995: 294). However, despite the significant role played by the family in society since its existence, it has not been spared from the changes affecting society. The process of social change has affected the traditional family patterns. Some of these changes have been gradual while some have been radical. On the other hand these changes have either been qualitative or quantitative in nature. The changes have either brought positive or negative effects to the family. Among the significant changes that have markedly influenced the traditional family patterns are those associated with westernisation and modernisation which are closely linked? The process of industrialisation has also been critical to the primary function of the family both in the modern and pre- industrial societies. According to Akuffo (2005:18), he stated that the pre-industrial family consisted of the couple their children, a line of descendants, blood relations is taken seriously, the lived closely and cooperatively and were organized for mutual support and performed economic functions. Thus, the pre-industrial societies system is based on kinship relations for social organisation. The family members had specific roles and responsibilities based on gender and age. For instance the parents played a critical role for the survival of its members. The main economic activity characterized by the traditional family was agriculture. As the name suggests (pre-industrial societies) the tools used for production were very simple. Besides the production of food for the family members, it was the sole responsibility of the parents to educate its members with skills for their survival. The parents also provided the emotional security and protection to the individual members of the family. In short, the fa mily in the pre-industrial societies was for the individuals safety. The family perpetuated the values, norms and beliefs of society through the educating the members within the custody members. On the other hand, the changes that were precipitated by industrialisation had an impact on the traditional family system. Industrialisation can be traced as far back as eighteenth and nineteenth centuries during the industrial revolution that took place in Europe and later spread to America. Giddens (2006:39) observes that industrialisation refers to the emergences of machine production, based on the use of inanimate power resources (like steam or electricity). Significant changes were witnessed during this period that affected human society. Furthermore, Industrialisation created changes in the roles of the family in society. For example in pre-industrial society, the family is the primary social institution. Production and education are the responsibility of the family. The shift of roles from the family threatened the power and control of the parents on the family members. The role of education was assumed by the government. This created high demand for literacy among the population. The individuals were socialised on how they could adapt in the changing society. The change in the education system had both positive and negative influence on the traditional family system. For example, the positive influence, in the industrial society was that it allowed the individuals movement in a social structure. Education provided for the upward social mobility. There was freedom of competition for social position. On the contrary, in pre-industrial societies most statuses are ascribed. This makes it difficult for the individual to work their way up the social ladder. The new education system also undermined some of the values, norms and beliefs of the traditional societies that in themselves contributed to the stability and continuity of society. The other significant changes resulting from industrialisation was the nature of work. In pre-industrial societies, people were not specialised. They are characterized by low levels of division of labour. They conducted similar economic tasks for food production. According to Durkheim, he argued that, traditional cultures, with a low division of labour are characterised by mechanical solidarity. Because most of the members of society are involved in similar occupations, are bound together by common experience and shared beliefs. The forces of industrialisation and urbanisation however, led to a growing division o labour that contributed to the breakdown of this solidarity. (Giddens 2006:14).This development saw a significant change in the production of goods and services. Industrialisation also changes the location of work activities. In pre-industrial societies, most of the economic activities are carried out within the family setting. With the coming of machines, however, productio n moves from the home to factories. This in turn encourages modernisation. This entails that people now moves off the farms and go to cities to be near the major sources of employment. (Thomas 1995:78). Apparently, the change of location of work created a totally different environment for the individual. In the extended family pattern the nature of interaction among members was primary. The members were closely related to each other through kinship relations. This interaction supported the individuals emotional security, protection and other physical and social needs. This change threatened the physiological and social needs enjoyed by the individual within the traditional family setting which increased vulnerability in this new environment. The individual developed new relationships through the neighbours, friends and workmates. The individual depended upon this new system of interaction for support. As a result of industrialization, the social structure and beliefs of society have changed drastically. This is understood that modernization describes the process of change from a traditional, Agrarian Society to a modern Industrial Society. According to Haviland in Abrahim et al (unknown), Modernization defined as an all-encompassing global process of cultural and socio-economic changes, whereby the developing societies seek to acquire some of the characteristics common to industrial Societies. Modernization is the process by which cultures are force to accept traits from outside, and change their original shape. In the course of modernisation, traditional knowledge and techniques give way to the application of scientific knowledge borrowed mainly from the West. Modernisation creates the change in traditions and values due to modern technology. People have to accept this change because the progress is both necessary and beneficial to society and the individual. However, under the impact of modernization today, people almost everywhere are witnessing the breakdown of the traditional extended family into nuclear families. This is not to say that the traditional larger kin groupings have vanished and families function is changed and its a negative impact on family. Every culture has its own family set-up. And modernization is also has an effect on family system and its traditions. Extended families traditions have changed due to modernization. Giddens (2006:905) observes that men often go to work in towns or cities, leaving their family members in the home villages. Alternatively a nuclear family group will move as a unit to the city. In cases, traditional family forms and kinship system may become weakened. This is true in the sense that in the pre-industrial societies roles were shared according to gender and age. For example, grandparents in this situation no longer played their role of providing care to the grand children as they were now separated. On other matters such as marriages, initiation ceremonies and other important rituals which were the sole responsibility of elderly people. All these values and beliefs were affected with these changes. For instance, in the pre-industrial societies, arranged marriages were preferred. The choice of ones life partner rested in the parents and not the individual. This was viewed as one way of strengthening cultural values and norms of particular culture. Therefore, with the development of towns and cities there has been a great shift in the way marriages are conducted and celebrated. This time an individual has the freedom to choose his/her life time partner irrespective of ones cultural background. Today a Lozi can marry a Bemba; a Tonga also may decide to marry an Indian. Marriages are celebrated with modernity as opposed to the traditional way they used to be celebrated. Dalouw Edwards (1997:499) states that among African families in South Africa, traditional values and customs which provided a basis for family structure have been eroded by rapid urbanisation and westernization. The problem has been made worse by the socio-economic hardship and low levels of education.According to the National Child Policy of 2004, there are over 75,000 street children in Zambia, while Child headed households account for an estimated 1-2 percent (about 20,000) of all households in the country. The extreme poverty and vulnerability in Zambia affecting the communities, households and individuals to a greater extent has been due to modernisation resulting in the disintegration and weakening of the extended family system a typical feature of pre-industrial societies. On the other hand, modernisation created employment opportunities for women as well. The idea of women being associated with domestic chores has changed. In the recent years (decades) the idea of the male breadwinner heading the family is being increasingly challenged, an increasing number of women enter the workplaces and family structures continue to diversify. (Giddens 2006:209).This has not just increased the income levels among the households, but it has also undermined the authority and control of the parents over the members of the family. They spend most of the time at work than at home which in itself has a negative effect on the development their childrens personality development Westernisation is also a change that has taken place in disrupting the extended family. The historical context of Westernization in Africa is the encounter with Europe, under the specific conditions of the Atlantic slave trade and the European colonial adventure. Westernisation follows the adoption of different life styles, cultural ways, working styles, organising styles and even behavioural patterns of the western countries particularly (Moonlight, 2009). People will take on the pattern and ways of the western countries and follow them in their working, thinking and living. Majority have keen interest in western styles (dressing, housing, outing and partying etc) and attitudes (professionalism and individualism). Consequently, westernisation in our African societies has an impact to the socio-economic activities. A Zambian family, like families elsewhere, can be thought of as a group which is responsible to reproduce, nurture, and educate the young to become productive members of the family and the society at large. Children are later taken to schools where traditional values and norms are eroded by new values of the west. The new fashions and styles have replaced the traditional aspect of dressing where one imitates what she/he sees or hear on the media. Some of the existing social problems experienced in our societies are as a result of new value. In conclusion, it can be said that industrialisation, westernisation and modernisation had significant influence on the traditional family life patterns. In pre-industrial societies, the main economic activity was agriculture and the family was responsible for the provision of the basic needs to its members. The main concern of the pre-industrial societies was the maintenance of group stability and consensus. This was accomplished through their division of labour.

blue cross blue shield :: essays research papers

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida (BCBSFL) Operating Services is Florida’s largest insurer, serving more than 6 million residents in total. Three trends that redefine how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida brings value to its members are through consumer empowerment, E-business, and financial services modernization. BCBSFL holds approximately 30% of the HMO market share in Florida, which is twice the share of its nearest competitor. BCBSFL offers a BlueComplements program filled with discounts and services that allow members to stay healthy. Theses advantages include Healthy Alternatives, Vision One, TruVision, Hearx, GlobalFit, SafeTech, and Walgreens Mail Order Pharmacy. BCBSFL offer a Complementary Alternative Medicine Program that allows its member to select Alternative Health Providers such as Massage Therapists, Acupuncturists, and Chiropractors. Members may receive up to 25% savings or more by using an Alternative Health Provider in the American Specialty Health Networks in Florida and nationwide. BCBSFL members may also save 15-45% plus free standard shipping on thousands of health products. For example, vitamins, health-related books, tapes, smoking cessation, and herbal supplements. Vision One is a discount program that allow BCBSFL members to receive comprehensive vision care through a program offered by Cole Managed Vision, which offers savings on both eyes and on eyewear. Members pay $35 for an eye exam for eyeglasses and receive discounts of up to 60% off retail prices for frames and lenses. Also, since this a discounted program offered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida there is no claims to file for independent vision care centers throughout Florida. TruVision is a Laser Vision Correction Program offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida to those members who wish to have laser surgery to correct their vision. Affordable laser vision correction services are provided to members for a discounted fee for BCBSFL members of $895 per eye, and TruVisions offers 100% financing with approved credit. The services that TruVision cover are comprehensive eye exams, pre and postoperative care, and an enhancement warranty. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Hearx program offers hearing care and hearing aids. Hearx is the largest hearing care organization accredited by the Joint Commission of Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Members receive free hearing examinations and 25% off any hearing aids purchased through Hearx. BCBSFL offer through Hearx offer tolerance testing, speech discrimination, risk consultation, annual cleanings, and hear aid checks at no charge. The GlobalFit Fitness Program at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida allows valued members to receive discounted membership fees to top-rated fitness clubs.

Telstra SWOT Analysis

Telstra, originally Telecom Australia was established in 1901 by the Postmaster Generals Department to manage all domestic phone services. Telecom Australia continued to be operated by the Postmaster Generals Department until 1975. In 1989, Telecom Australia became the official Telecommunications Corporations for all domestic and international telephone services. On the 1st of July 1995 Telecom Australia changed their name to Telstra for the purpose of differentiation from other global telecommunications companies.Telephony, broadband, hosting, directory and pay TV services. The company also provides ICT services to small and medium corporations, large organizations and government. It offers internet services, value added services and content services under the brand BigPond (bigpond. com). The company offers FOXTEL pay TV through its network. Its advertising and information services including White Pages, Yellow Pages, Trading Post, whereis and City search are offered through wholly owned subsidiary, Sensis.It also offers wholesale services to other carriers, carriage service providers and internet service providers. The â€Å"Telstra Corporation Limited† (Telstra) is the primary telecommunications supplier of Australia and the southern Pacific region. Telstra have spent 4 years of preparation, 2 years of project implementation and over $1. 5 Billion AU to design, build and provide a fully national IP network. This fully integrated network is known as the Telstra Next IP & Next G networks (Next networks).The business drivers for Telstra to implement the Next networks has come from Governments, large Enterprises and small businesses and their need for a standard fully integrated, more scalable, more reliable, better performing and more secure platform that connects technologies and business practise. Telstra recognised this need and have made a multibillion dollar investment to transform the already offered networks into the Next networks to enable them to support applications that will work through fixed lines and wireless networks across the whole of Australia.This flexible capability is known as â€Å"Next Dimension Telstra Corporation is one of the leading telecommunications company in Australia. The company offers mobile and fixed telephony, broadband, hosting, directory and pay TV services. It also provides information communications and technology (ICT) services to small and medium corporations, large organizations and government. The company primarily operates in Australia.It is headquartered in Victoria, Australia and employs about 45,220 people. The company recorded revenues of A$25,029 million ($22,080. 3 million) during the financial year ended June 2010 (FY2010), a decrease of 2. 3% over 2009. The operating profit of the company was A$6,501 million ($5,735. 1 million) in FY2010, a decrease of 0. 9% over 2009. Its net profit was A$3,940 million ($3,475. 8 million) in FY2010, a decrease of 3. 3% over 2009.

Effects of Punishment

Punishment and sentencing are an integral part of our criminal justice system. There are four basic philosophical reasons for sentencing retribution, deterrence, incapacitation, and rehabilitation. There are some factors that that can affect how a wrongdoer is punished. There is a debate surrounding capital punishment with very distinct viewpoints. These topics will be covered in this paper. Purpose of Sentencing There are four basic philosophical reasons for sentencing retribution, deterrence, incapacitation, and rehabilitation. Retribution is the oldest and most common justification for punishing someone. In a system of justice that favors retribution, a wrongdoer who has freely chosen to violate society’s rules must be punished for the infraction. Retribution relies on the principle of just deserts, which holds that the severity of the punishment must be in proportion to the severity of the crime. This is not the same as revenge because retribution is more concerned with the needs of society as a whole instead of just the victim or victims. Deterrence seeks to punish wrongdoers and to prevent future crimes by â€Å"setting an example. By setting an example society is sending a message to potential criminals that certain actions will not be tolerated. There are two forms of deterrence: general and specific. The basic idea of general deterrence is that by punishing one person, others will be dissuaded from committing a similar crime. Specific deterrence assumes that an individual, after being punished once for a certain act, will be less likely to repeat that act because she or he does not want to be punished again. Incapacitation is another strategy for preventing crime. Incapacitation is the detention of wrongdoers in prison, preventing the offender from committing any future crimes. The final philosophy is rehabilitation. The philosophy of rehabilitation is that society is best served when wrongdoers are not simply punished, but provided the resources needed to eliminate criminality from their behavioral patterns. Factors of Sentencing The sentencing ritual strongly lends itself to the concept of individualized justice. There are two factors that most judges consider before sentencing a wrongdoer, the seriousness of the crime and if there are any mitigating or aggravating circumstances. The Seriousness of the Crime is the primary factor in a judge’s sentencing decision. The more serious the crime is, the harsher the punishment. Every judge has their own method of determining the seriousness of an offense. Most judges will simply consider the â€Å"conviction offense†; that’s where they base the sentence on the crime for which the defendant was convicted. Other judges focus on the â€Å"real offense† in determining the punishment for a wrongdoer. The â€Å"real offense† is based on the actual behavior of the defendant, regardless of the official conviction. Many prosecutors and defense attorneys are opposed to â€Å"real offense† procedures because they can render a plea bargain meaningless. Mitigating and aggravating circumstances are circumstances surrounding a crime that may prompt a judge to adjust the sentence so that it more accurately reflects the totality of the crime. Mitigating circumstances are circumstances that may justify a lighter sentence and aggravating circumstances are circumstances may justify a harsher sentence. A defendant’s youth or the fact that the defendant was coerced into committing the crime could be considered a mitigating circumstance. A prior record, a blatant disregard for safety, or the use of a weapon can be aggravating circumstances that could lead a judge to inflict a harsher penalty than might otherwise be the case. Capital Punishment Capital punishment is the use of the death penalty to punish wrongdoers for certain crimes. Capital punishment is the ultimate deterrent by rendering those executed incapable of committing further crimes. If a murderer is dead they will no longer be a threat to society. Another viewpoint is that the criminal justice system is infallible. What this viewpoint says is that many American men and women who had been convicted of capital crimes and sentenced to death were later found to be innocent. That is the problem with the system that sometimes prosecutors will convict an innocent person just to close a case. Conclusion The four basic philosophical reasons for sentencing are an integral part of our criminal justice system. There are some factors that that can affect how a wrongdoer is punished. The debate surrounding capital punishment will most likely never end since every side has their own viewpoints.

assignment 2 Essay

assignment 2 Essay assignment 2 Essay Recent movements in the corporate world have raised questions in respect to the part of corporate in society and as a result have demanded for greater corporate social responsibility and attention to business ethics. It is evident that Intent, efforts and communication will vary from corporate to corporate, where in some corporations, corporate social responsibility is considered as a priority that is managed closely, comparable to HR issues or public relations, while in other corporations its kept to a bare minimum. Ethics (lack of) In the case study, Becton Dickinson, the world’s largest manufacturer of medical supplies did not have clear corporate social responsibility strategy with a long term view, and instead chose not to change the design of its needles and syringes, despite the growing risk of injuries reported. The focus of corporation clearly echoed Milton Friedman’s view, where the primary duty of corporation was to maximize its profit to benefit its shareholder, in this instance by minimizing capital outlay. To make point clear, it is sensible to agree that the main duty of a business is to maximize its profit to benefit its shareholder. Having said that, this is not enough. Business needs to assume ‘social concern’, especially in this case study where ethics are non-existent. This is evident by purchasing an exclusive license to produce safety-lok syringe, but chose to market only one model and not the whole range as this would compete with its flagship product, despite market and consumer needs. Short term view of the corporation has led to number of court cases and settlements for undisclosed sums of money, but this did not change their policy towards corporate social responsibility. Short term view of protection profits and having monopoly as a largest manufacturer has ended in federal court alleging that they violated antitrust laws and harmed consumers and health care workers by using GPO to monopolies the safety needle market, resulting in numerous out of court settlements Later in 2009, jury found Becton Dickinson guilty of copying Retractables design and selling it as their own, prompting lack of ethics and social obligation, in this case overlooked or ignored. Business like people, can become set in their ways, become unresponsive to the demands of the market, where unresponsive business generally goes out of the business. The outcome for Becton Dickinson could have been very different if they had corporate social responsibility strategy with a long term views. Good examples of socially responsible capitalism are WalMart, VISA, Coca Cola and Volkswagen, where at the same time businesses are maximizing profits to its shareholders, while addressing society’s issues Social Responsibility WalMart opened in-house Money Centers in its stores across the USA, targeting people without traditional bank accounts. This is great move by WalMart, that can have a great social impacts in the long run with economically less advantaged customers who likely to be young, low-income, and relatively less educated members of either African-American or Hispanic/Latino communities. Although the motives are not yet clear, WalMart has made a step in the right direction as their have a long term strategy and understanding that their existence and profitability depends on the state of society. Similar to WalMart, VISA has built partnerships with local governments and non-profits focusing on financial inclusions, which is having a great impact in developing countries by giving people a way to pay though electronic payment systems, allowing them to use VISA Debit Cards to weather impact to their finances by using funds they have instead of owing money to the banks. Coca Cola on the other hand, started program to empower young woman entrepreneurs, aimed at bringing 5 million in the developing countries into its business by 2020 as a local bottler and distributor of Coca Cola products. To make a strong statement, they proudy Assignment 2 Essay Assignment 2 Essay Elizabeth Lieber Section 4 Option #2: Substituting Facebook Messaging for Texting Daily Log: Wednesday, October 22, 2014: Today was the first day that I chose to eliminate texting from my daily routine and use Facebook messaging. Initially, due to force of habit I would automatically check the text message. After an hour it finally registered that I would not be using my phone for the next two days. I felt anxious and did not know what to expect. Thursday, October 23, 2014: The second day without text messaging was easier than this first. I was more conscious of charging my laptop versus my cell phone because I knew that it would be my main form of communication for the day. There were longer periods of time without communication with a friend because taking out my computer was not always appropriate in certain social contexts. Friday, October 24, 2014: This day was the most difficult. Personally, Friday is the most social day of the week, and while making plans I felt isolated because I wasn’t able to contribute to a group text message. I was inclined to individually message my friends online. It was particularly difficult at a party; I constantly had to make sure I was with one of my friends because if I lost one of them it would be more difficult to get in touch with them. Contemporarily, we live in a society where individuals use technology as a medium of communication. These modes are called communication technologies and have become crucial while constructing relationships. Our idioms of practice, and media ideologies both affect what we consider appropriate social uses of technology. For my experiment, I used Facebook messaging as a substitution for texting. While both forms are considered to be quasi-synchronous, there are certain dimensions, which juxtapose the two. For example, †Å"texting was ever-present and too informal, while instant messaging could offer a textual representation of spoken conversation.† (Gershon, 2010, p. 29) Instant messaging is seen more as face-to-face conversations because it allows for conversational turn taking and how people respond to each other in person. Which is a concept theorized by Don Zimmerman that refers to the process in which people in a conversation decide who should speak next. People turn to texting as a less personal, divided conversation in certain contexts because it does not resemble as much as an in-person conversation. Due to my own ideologies, texting is less personal than instant messaging because it is less rapid and enables time for your reply. My media ideologies on texting were developed through idioms of practice, which have helped me differentiate the appropriate social uses of technology. I selected instant messaging as an alternative for texting because it was more similar than calling or using email. Many of my friends have the Facebook application on their cell phones, so it was as accessible to them as texting is. I initially predicted that I would be missing out on plans, or wouldn’t be able to keep in touch with my friends as much as I could with my cell phone. However, I found myself calling them more often if it was urgent, where I would normally just text a friend if I needed something. Initially, the change in communication media seemed impossible. It often felt like I was breaking a societal norm by refusing to answer a text message. I was unsure how my friends were going to react to this deviation generated by my alternative use of instant messaging. I felt nostalgic because instant messaging is a medium that I used before I had a cell phone and seemed like a more outdated technology. Since language is always changing, it is inevitable that their will always be a changing new media landscape. This relates to remediation, and how my media ideologies and uses of texting connect to the history of the usage of instant messaging. My personal experience on how instant messaging intertwines with the feeling of nostalgia may

A Comparative Analysis of Community-Based Tourism in Uganda and Kenya The WritePass Journal

A Comparative Analysis of Community-Based Tourism in Uganda and Kenya 1. Introduction A Comparative Analysis of Community-Based Tourism in Uganda and Kenya ). The concept brought together issues of sustainability, local empowerment and self-reliance. CBT has come about due to the desire for a more inclusive approach to planning that incorporates local values (Koster 2007). The concept of CBT has suffered from competing and ill-thought-out definitions. For example, Suansri (2003) and Ramsa Mohd (2004) view CBT as a tourism venture wholly managed by the local communities. On the other hand, Scheyvens (2002) and Mearns (2003) are inclined to see it as involving a degree of participation or partnership with other stakeholders playing a part. Perhaps the problem with defining the concept can be attributed to the fact that CBT may mean different things to different people. Despite debate over meanings, the CBT framework used in this paper is that initiated, planned, controlled, owned and managed by the local people with the aim of meeting the needs of the entire community. Private enterprises at the micro-level can be considered as part of the definition if the focus is on communal well-being rather than individual profit. The benefits should accrue to the local community and CBT should respect and preserve local culture. 2. Background to Tourism in Kenya and Uganda: Demographics, History, Socio-Economic Considerations and Environmental Sustainability Tourism plays an important role in Kenya, accounting for 10% of GDP and 9% of employment. It is also increasingly profitable with a 17.9% rise in earnings from the sector between 2009 and 2010 (Ndivo et al 2012). Amongst African countries, Kenya is currently ranked 5th for international tourist visits, with approximately 1.5 million international tourists in 2008 (Bunyere et al. 2009). Because it has the potential to generate employment and prosperity, it has been given an increasingly important role in national socio-economic agendas, with a number of key policies and strategies created including the National Tourism Master Plan (Ministry of Tourism Kenya 2009), Tourism Policy (Government of Kenya 2010) and Tourism Bill 2005 (Ndivo et al 2012). Although there is potential to develop tourism around the country, historically interest has centred on the beaches of the south coast, national parks and game reserves (Ndivo et al 2012). According to a survey conducted by the EU, 63% of EU visitors in Kenya chose coastal areas as their tourist destination (Kibicho 2004). Wildlife is also a popular attraction, with70% of the tourism earnings in Kenya coming from wildlife-based tourism (Bunyere et al, 2009). Given the critical importance of the tourism sector in Kenya, it is extremely vital to protect and conserve these significant resources. Indeed, conservation policies and collaborative schemes have been already been put in place. There is a large area of protected land, and 10% of Kenya’s land has been designated as national park and game reserve land (Akama et al., 2011). Critical biodiversity areas and the rich cultural coastal region form the flourishing tourism sector in Kenya. Although measures to protect Kenya’s ecology have been put in place, there are concerns over sustainability, and the country continues to experience accelerated decline and destruction of critical biodiversity areas. There has been a decline in wildlife population in national parks and game reserves at rates similar to non-protected areas, indicating the states inability to protect critical biodiversity (Akama et al., 2011). Moreover, coastal tourism which has for decades dominated has experienced a rapid decline in the recent years owing to the tribal clashes that have erupted (Cheung 2012). Kenyas coastal tourism industry experienced a period of unprecedented dismal performance with 56% of the hotels closing in 2008 (Akama et al., 2011). Although much of the violence that occurred was tribal in nature, findings indicate that lack of community participation and involvement in tourism activities in the coast was a major factor contributing to these ethnic clashes. Had the local communities been involved in the tourism activities, such ethnic flare-ups would have been averted. The ethnic flare-ups, land use conflict between local communities and wildlife managers, threats of extinction of species and the apparent inability of the state to protect critical biodiversity areas have led to a new realization of the importance of community based tourism in Kenya (Korir et al 2013). Considerable effort has now been made to provide support to CBT enterprises including donor funding. Further, a framework that gives impetus to successful and sustainable operations of CBT ventures has been linked into the overall national policy (Akama et al. 2011). History of Ugandan tourism sector and socio-economic contributions Tourism also has a role to play in the Ugandan economy. Similar to Kenya, main tourist products in Uganda are nature-based and are linked to wildlife game reserves, forest reserves and national parks. Other attractions include cultural heritage, community development, eco-tourism and faith-based tourism (Paul, 2004). The importance of involving the local communities in tourism activities is also evident in Uganda. Conflicts between the locals and the government have largely been due to their lack of involvement in planning and development activities. For example, after the establishment of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in 1992, conflicts arose between the locals and the park. The conflicts that led to the burning up of 5% of the park by the local community was evidence enough that the park would not be protected without consent and local support (Mujuni et al. 2003). A collaborative management plan was however set up which promoted participation of the locals in park management and revenue sharing. As a result, conflict ended and the locals committed themselves to protecting and preserving the park. The experience showed the importance of local community involvement in tourism activities. Uganda used to be a key leader in tourism in the past. In the early, 1960s Uganda used to be the main tourism destination in East Africa(Frederic, 2011). However, the unprecedented turmoil of the 1970s and early 80s led to a decline in the tourism industry (Paul, 2004). As a result, Uganda lost its position as a top tourist destination in East Africa to Kenya. However, the government that took over in the mid 80s restored peace and stability (frederic, 2011). Since then, the sector has been steadily increasing despite lagging behind Kenya in terms of its contribution to GDP. Unlike in Kenya where tourism contributes around 10% of the GDP, Ugandan tourism industry is estimated to contribute 4% of the total GDP(Snchez-Caà ±izares, 2013). Nonetheless, there has been an increasing trend in tourism with the number of international tourist visits increasing from 468,000 in 2005 to over 940,000 in 2010 (Paul, 2004). Given that both countries are still developing, it is worthwhile to examine some of the similarities and differences between the two countries. Comparative analysis of community based tourism between Kenya and Uganda Similarities Socio-economic impact The two countries share certain things in common starting with the embracement and recognition of community based tourism as an important tool for reducing poverty. Both countries have embraced and given emphasis to development of community based tourism as an important tool for poverty reduction (Snchez-Caà ±izares, 2013). There are several community based tourism projects in both Kenya and Uganda. Some of the popular community based tourism projects in Kenya are: the Kimana Community Wildlife Sanctuary, Mwaluganje, Sera Conservancy and Kalacha Bandas in Marsabit among many other(Tang, 2013) Similarly, Ugandan ministry of tourism has laid emphasis on the importance of community based tourism in the country. The idea of community based conservation has become the focus of the industry. Perhaps this has been driven by the recognition of the benefits of involving the local community in tourism development including: poverty reduction, decline in conflicts with the ministry over land used and reduced poaching activities (frederic, 2011) Some of the successful community based projects in Uganda include Lake Nkuruba Nature Sanctuary, Buhoma Community Restcamp, Mgahinga Community Campground, Busingiro and Kaniyo Pabidi community project, Ruboni Community Campground and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary(Zeppel, 2006). Participation of the locals in these projects is high. For example, in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, the local people are involved in community-guided walks and bird watching tours (Zeppel 2006). Both countries seem to be embracing community tourism as an important tool for reducing poverty. Another similarity can be seen with the funding of these projects. Most of these projects are donor funded. Kenya is heavily reliant on donor funding. In fact, almost 100% of community based tourism development activities in Kenya is donor funded. For example, funds from USAID and World Bank were used to set up an electric fence around the Kimana Community Wildlife Sanctuary (Jonathan et al. 2013). Mwaluganje, another community based tourism development activity, was established through donor funding. Sera Conservancy that was formed to empower the local Samburu communities in Kenya was established with funds from USAID. The EU has also played a major role in funding community based tourism development in Kenya. In 2000, a massive grant of 5.5 million Euros was released by the EU which saw the establishment of 16 community based tourism developments in Kenya (Ruhiu 2007). Other key players funding CBT in Kenya include international bodies such as the UNDP, conservation based NGOs such as AWF, Pact Kenya and WWF; and national agencies such as Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI) (Jonathan et al. 2013). It is clear that donor funding has played a major role in the development of community based tourism in Kenya. The governments role has merely been the provision of an enabling environment such as security, programme coordination and policy formulation (Ruhiu 2007). Similarly, Community Based Tourism Enterprises (CBTEs) in Uganda rely predominantly on donor funding. The Mgahinga Bwindi community project was established with funds from the World BANK (Mujuni et al. 2003). Moreover, the two major associations Uganda Community Tourism Association (UCOTA) and (NACOBTA) in charge of promoting community based tourism in Uganda by providing loans and training to the local communities are predominantly donor funded. NACOBTA is 99% donor funded whereas UCOTA is 44.8% donor funded (Elisa et al., 2001) UCOTA empowers the local Ugandan communities to improve their livelihood through participating in sustainable tourism development activities. The association helps the local communities by aiding in the sale of handcrafts, providing accommodation, and tour guiding. Furthermore, both countries have witnessed improved livelihoods due to community based tourism activities. For example, the Mgahinga Bwindi Community Project in Uganda has improved the livelihoods of the locals living around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Many of the local population living nearby have been employed as park rangers and porters (labourers). The community has also benefited through improved infrastructure including roads, education and health facilities. About 60% of the Mgahinga Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Conservation Trust has been devoted towards development of local community projects (Adams Infield 2013). The local communities in Kenya have also benefited from employment and improved livelihoods. The locals living near Mwaluganje, Sera Conservancy and Kalacha Bandas in Marsabit have benefited from schools, clinics and boreholes which have been built by these projects (Ruhiu 2007). Further, pro-poor tourism have assisted women with bead making through provision of platform for selling their products. Whilst these benefits are encouraging, participation of the locals in both countries is still far from enough. Although some of the locals have managed to secure jobs and improve their livelihoods, most of them are paid low salaries, an equivalent of 30 pounds per month (Ruhiu 2007). This certainly doesnt really improve their livelihood that much. In fact, critics have argued that community based tourism and tourism in general should not necessarily be relied on as a tool for poverty alleviation. According to them, tourism does not compete well with sectors such as agriculture which have higher potential of reducing poverty. Environment impact Also, community based tourism in both countries have led to positive impacts on the environment. For example, in Uganda, KAFRED has created awareness among the local communities bordering wetlands about the importance of protecting and preserving the environment (Adams Infield 2013). This has led to a reduction in encroachment and eucalyptus planting in the wetlands. Further programs such as the National Wetlands Program and Semliki conservation project which have risen from CBT activities have established village by-laws governing the use of wetlands (Adams Infield 2013). Environmental education has played a role in ensuring sustainability of tourism. Similarly, in Kenya, involvement of the local people in tourism activities has led to reduction in wildlife poaching and destruction of forests. Community wildlife and conservation ventures in Kenya have played a major role towards protecting the environment and preserving wildlife (Jonathan et al. 2013). Environment degradation has reduced and conservation measures strengthened with the help of the locals who are employed as park ranges and porters. Community based tourism and eco-tourism have led the way towards responsible travel with important environmental benefits. Differences Having highlighted the similarities, it is important to identify some of the differences in community based tourism between the two countries. One particular difference relates to the extent to which community based tourism is promoted. CBT in Uganda is only limited to areas within or along the forest reserves and national parks. Almost all of the community projects are within or along the forest reserves and national parks. For example, the Buhoma Community Restcamp is within the impenetrable Bwindi Forest national park. The Mgahinga Community Campground project lies next to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Zeppel 2006). Others including the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, Busingiro and Kaniyo community project and the Ruboni community campground are located along or near national parks and forest reserves (Zeppel 2006). Community based tourism activities in Uganda continue to be limited to areas lying within or along the national parks and forest reserves. This has been echoed by Industry operators who have highlighted ‘limited efforts to promoting community tourism at the national level’ as one of the main concern of tourism development in Uganda. In stark contrast, community based tourism is promoted at the national level as evident with the opening up of new areas of possibility such as sports tourism, eco tourism, adventure safaris, horse and camel safaris, walk tours, and cultural tourism among many others (Cobb 2006). Further, programs such as the Enterprise Development Program have been implemented across the country to build the local capacity and integrate communities into tourism development activities. Such programs ensure the mobilization of the community through seminars, debates, regional workshops and participatory trainings (Ruhiu 2007). Further the local communities are provided advisory services on product development and market access which helps strengthen growth of their enterprises (Cobb 2006). This has been driven by the realization of the potential of community based tourism to reduce poverty, and multiplier effects of the tourism sector as a whole in driving the economy. Perhaps another difference that can be pointed between CBT in Kenya and Uganda relates to the coastal attraction. While community based ecotourism ventures along the coastal region form the flourishing tourism sector in Kenya, Uganda being a landlocked country does not have any coastal attractions (Mulinda Wilbert 2009). Coastal attraction features provides Kenya with an edge over Uganda(Wilbert, 2009). Beaches, sun-basking, the aquatic life at the coast and rich culture that includes performances, dances and the contemporary ways of living of the coastal people make it a popular tourist destination. Another difference is related to the marketing and promotion of CBT activities. Unlike Uganda, Kenya has invested more in marketing and promotion of tourism activities. For example, last year, Kenya budgeted $34 million dollars for tourism promotion and marketing. This is in stark contrast with Ugandas budget of only $90,000 (UIA 2014). While this may be seen as impacting on development in the overall sector, community based enterprises are also affected in terms of the number of visits and revenues generated from sale of products. Uganda’s funding of the sector remains very low despite the potential of becoming a multi-billion sector. The slow pace of tourism in Uganda can be attributed to the lack of identity at the international level. While Kenya has promoted their visibility at the international level, Uganda is still lagging behind in terms of investing fully in promotion of tourism. While CBT in Kenya has grown much faster than Uganda, it has not developed as expected owing to many factors including in adequate funds for marketing and promoting tourism, transparency and governance issues, lack of marketing skills and absence of a system for ensuring equitable sharing of the opportunities and benefits accruing from tourism activities. For example, while Kenyas budget for promotion of tourism may be $34 million, the Kenya Tourism Board receives only $6 million. Further, funding remains a major problem in both Kenya and Uganda. Given that these countries are still developing, there are very limited financial resources for supporting CBTEs. Even when these finances are incorporated in government budgets, they are often inadequate to support CBT developments (Ruhiu, 2007). As a result, community based tourism has often relied on foreign investment which may lead to the rise of neo-colonial structures discussed above as foreign investors seek control of tourism resources. Whereas Kenya may be ahead of Uganda in terms of pro-tourism development, it is still far from being developed as it is still prone to failures resulting from limited funding, poor infrastructure development, lack of formal education, political influences and inadequate representation of the locals. CBT in Kenya still remains very low with lack of local representation in the workforce. While the industry may boast of over 500,000 jobs, the employment opportunities remain inequitably distributed (Cheung 2012). Most of the local communities are missing out on employment opportunities as these are being taken over by the outside workforce. According to a survey conducted by Bruyere et al. (2009), 64% of the local community members found the employment opportunities to be insufficient. Kenyas community based approach to tourism development is still largely skewed to the interest of tourism (hotels, hospitality and service) with limited representation of the locals. There are also political considerations to take into account. For example, a neo-colonial structure has emerged within the industry as some foreign investors seek control of tourism resources. (Cheung 2012). This has resulted in social and political disempowerment of the locals as neo-colonial structures have made it increasingly difficult for them to participate in the planning and decision making process. Although there exist more opportunities for local entrepreneurs to invest in the industry compared to Uganda especially given the ongoing development agenda that encourages of the growth SMEs, a divide of power continues to disengage and disempower the local communities. The majority of Kenyans continue to live below the poverty line with the highest incidence of poverty occurring in tourist destination areas. 5. Conclusion The above has looked at the notion of CBT with particular reference to the situation in Kenya and Uganda. From the analysis, both countries seem to share certain commonalities and differences as well. For example, community based tourism is embraced in both countries and recognized as an important tool for reducing poverty. Also, both countries are heavily reliant on donor funding. Moreover, the locals in both countries have experienced improvement in their livelihoods through employment opportunities, and access to school and health facilities. Further, Pro-poor tourism has assisted women with bead making through provision of platform for selling products. Both countries have also seen improvement in their environments which has resulted due to community development projects and conservation ventures. In Uganda, programs such as the National Wetlands Program and Semliki conservation project have established village by-laws governing the use of wetlands. Community wildlife and conservation ventures in Kenya have played a major role towards protecting the environment and preserving wildlife. There are also sharp differences in CBT developments in both countries. For example, community based tourism activities in Uganda are limited to areas lying within or along the national parks and forest reserves. In stark contrast, community based tourism in Kenya is promoted at the national level as evident with the opening up of new areas of possibility such as sports tourism, eco tourism, adventure safaris, horse and camel safaris, walk tours, and cultural tourism. Another difference is that Uganda being a landlocked country does not have coastal attractions. On the other hand, beaches, sun-basking, the aquatic life at the Kenyan coast and rich culture that includes performances, dances and the contemporary ways of living of the coastal people make it a popular tourist destination. Additionally, Kenya has invested more in marketing and promotion of tourism activities compared to Uganda. While Kenya has promoted their visibility at the international level, Uganda is still lagging behind in terms of investing fully in promotion of tourism. While CBT in Kenya has grown much faster than Uganda, it has not developed as expected owing to many factors including in adequate funds for marketing and promoting tourism, transparency and governance issues, lack of marketing skills and absence of a system for ensuring equitable sharing of the opportunities and benefits accruing from tourism activities. Nonetheless, the future of tourism in both these two countries lies in community based tourism. The potential of CBT to reduce poverty and make the sector sustainable is enormous. Not only can CBT help in enhancing biodiversity conservation but it can also generate income and bring economic growth to the local communities. 6. References Adams, W. and Infield, M. 2013. Community conservation at mgahinga gorilla national park, uganda. Institute for Development Policy and Management, Manchester. Akama, J. and Starry, P., 2000. Cultural tourism in Africa: strategies for new millennium.Africa International Conference, Mombasa, Kenya. Beeton, S (2006) Community Development Through Tourism, USA: Landlinks Press Bruyere, B.L., Beh, A.W. and Lelengula, G., 2009. ‘Differences in perceptions of communication, tourism benefits, and management issues in a protected area of rural Kenya’.  Environmental Management,  43, 49-59 Butler, R., Hall, C.M. Jenkins, J. 1998. ‘Continuity and change in rural tourism: Introduction’ in R. Butler, C.M. Hall and J. Jenkins (eds) Tourism and Recreation in Rural Areas (New York: Wiley) 3-17 Cheung, H., 2012.Tourism in kenyas national parks: a cost-benefit analysis. Kenya Giampiccoli, A. and Kalis, J.H., 2012. Community-based tourism and local culture: the case of the amaMpondo, vol. 10 (1), pp. 173-188 Frederic, T., Grace, B, and Celestine, k. 2011. Opportunity study: Uganda inclusive tourism. Jonathan, T. B., Nelly, J., and Nehemia, K., 2013. ‘An examination of Kenyas outbound tourism to ugandan destinations: towards re-thinking Kenyas tourism product development and marketing’. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development 4(8). Kibicho, W., 2004. Community tourism: a lesson from Kenyas coastal region. Journal of Vacation Marketing, Vol. 10, pp.33-42 Korir, J, Muchiri, J and Kamwea, J 2013. ‘Wildlife Based Tourism, Ecology and Sustainability of Protected Areas in Kenya’ Journal of Natural Sciences Research 3:3, Koster, R.L., 2007.An evaluation of community based tourism development: how theory intersects practice. Priarie Perspectives Lopez-Guzman, T. and Sanchez-Canizares, S. and Pavon, V., 2011.‘Community based tourism in developing countries: a case study’. An International Multidisciplinary Journal of Tourism, vol.6 (1), pp 69-84 Mearns, K., 2003. Commmunity based tourism. The key to empowering the Sankuyo community in Botswana. Africa Insight, 33:29-32 Mujuni C.N., K. N., P. van de Kop, A. Baldascini and S. Grouwels 1., 2003. ‘Community-based forest enterprise development for improved livelihoods and biodiversity conservation: A case study from bwindi world heritage site, uganda’. In World Forestry Congress. Canada, Quebec City. Ndivo RM, Waudo, J N and Waswa F 2012. ‘Examining Kenya’s Tourist Destinations’ Appeal: the Perspectives of Domestic Tourism Market.’. Journal of Tourism and Hospitality, 1, 103. OECD 2012.Tourism Trends and Policies, OECD Publishing, UK Paul, A. 2004. Tourism in a rural Ugandan village: impacts, local meaning and implications for development. Pergamon, New York. Pearce, D. 1992 ‘Alternative tourism: concepts, classifications and questions’, in Smith, V.L. and Eadington, W. R., (eds), Tourism Alternatives: Potentials and Problems in theDevelopment of Tourism, New York: John Wiley and Sons pp. 18–30. Rihiu, J.M., 2007. Capital for investing in community based tourism (CBT) grants vs loans. National Ecotourism Conference Snchez-Caà ±izares, T. and Lopez_GuzmanL, 2013. Community based tourism in developing countries: A case study Tourismos: An International Multidisciplinary Journal Of Tourism 6(1):69-84. Scheyvens, R., 2002. Tourism for development empowering community. Harlow: Prentice Hall Suansri, P., 2003. Community based tourism handbook.Responsible ecological social tour REST project, Thailand. Tasci, A.D., semrad, K.J. and yilmaz, S., 2013. Community based tourism: finding the equilibrium in the COMCEC context setting the pathway for the future. Tang, K. 2013. Community based tourism. Singapore. Tefler, D.J., 2009. Development studies and tourism. In: Jamal, T. and Robinson, M. (eds). The SAGE handbook of tourism studies, London: SAGE Publications Zeppel, H. 2006. Indigenous Ecotourism: Sustainable Development and Management. CABI.

Genetics Basics

Genetics Basics Have you ever wondered why you have the same eye color as your mother or the same hair color as your father? Genetics is the study of inheritance or  heredity. Genetics helps to explain how traits are passed from parents to their young. Parents pass traits to their young through gene transmission. Genes are located on chromosomes and consist of DNA. They contain specific instructions for protein synthesis. Genetics Basics Resources Understanding certain genetic concepts can be difficult for beginners. Below are several helpful resources that will assist in the understanding of basic genetic principles. Gene Inheritance Genetic Dominance: Learn about the differences between complete genetic dominance, codominance, and incomplete dominance.Mendels Law of Segregation: The principles that govern heredity were discovered by a monk named Gregor Mendel in the 1860s. One of these principles is now called Mendels law of segregation.Mendels Law of Independent Assortment: This principle of heredity formulated by Gregor Mendel states that traits are transmitted to offspring independently of one another.Polygenic Inheritance: Polygenic inheritance is the inheritance of traits such as skin color, eye color, and hair color that are determined by more than one gene.Sex-linked Traits: Hemophilia is an example of a common sex-linked disorder that is an X linked recessive trait. Genes and Chromosomes Chromosomes and Sex: Introduction to the basics of sex determination by the presence or absence of certain chromosomes.Gene Mutations: A gene mutation is any change that occurs in the DNA. These changes can be beneficial to, have some effect on, or be seriously detrimental to an organism.Four Cute Features Caused by Gene Mutations: Did you know that cute features such as dimples and freckles are caused by gene mutations? These traits can either be inherited or acquired.Genetic Recombination: In genetic recombination, genes on chromosomes are recombined to produce organisms with new gene combinations.Genetic Variation: In genetic variation, the alleles of organisms within a population change. This change may result from mutation, gene flow, or sexual reproduction.Sex Chromosome Abnormalities: Sex chromosome abnormalities occur as a result of chromosome mutations brought on by mutagens or problems that occur during meiosis. Genes and Protein Synthesis Decoding Your Genetic Code: The genetic code is the information in DNA and RNA that determines amino acid sequences in protein synthesis.How Does DNA Transcription Work?: DNA transcription is a process that involves the transcribing of genetic information from DNA to RNA. Genes are transcribed in order to produce proteins.Translation: Making Protein Synthesis Possible: Protein synthesis is accomplished through a process called translation. In translation, RNA and ribosomes work together to produce proteins. Mitosis and Meiosis DNA Replication: DNA replication is the process of copying the DNA within our cells. This process is a necessary step in mitosis and meiosis.The Cell Cycle of Growth: Cells grow and replicate through an ordered series of events called the cell cycle.Stage-By-Stage Guide to Mitosis: This guide to the phases of mitosis explores the reproduction of cells. In mitosis, chromosomes are duplicated and divided evenly between two daughter cells.Stages of Meiosis: This stage-by-stage guide to the phases of meiosis provides details about the events that occur in each of the stages of meiosis I and meiosis II.7 Differences Between Mitosis and Meiosis: Cells divide either through the process of mitosis or meiosis. Sex cells are produced through meiosis, while all other body cell types are produced through mitosis. Reproduction Gametes: The Building Blocks of Sexual Reproduction: Gametes are reproductive cells that unite at fertilization to form a new cell called a zygote. Gametes are haploid cells, meaning that they contain only one set of chromosomes.Haploid Cells: Gametes and Spores: A haploid cell is a cell that contains one complete set of chromosomes. Gametes are examples of haploid cells that reproduce by meiosis.How Sexual Reproduction Occurs: Sexual reproduction is a process by which two individuals produce offspring with genetic traits from both parents. It involves the union of gametes.Types of Fertilization in Sexual Reproduction: Fertilization involves the union of male and female sex cells, which results in the production of offspring with a mix of inherited genes.Parthenogenesis and Reproduction Without Fertilization: Parthenogenesis is a type of asexual reproduction that does not require the fertilization of a female egg cell. Both plants and animals reproduce in this manner.What Is Asexual Reproduction?: In asexual reproduction, one individual produces offspring that are genetically identical to itself. Common forms of asexual reproduction include budding, regeneration, and parthenogenesis.

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UK law property management practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

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Pacific Precision Financial Situation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

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Suicide among young men in the United Kingdom in related to the press Research Paper

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Quanitative Method Paper - Research Proposal Example g on a number of endogenous and exogenous variables such as employers’ preferences, employees’ willingness to accept such relationships and even time related economic pressures such as the current global economic recession. The strategic competition has compelled organizations to adopt far reaching policy changes on employee relations with refers to both its operational strategy and the mission related corporate governance principles in order to achieve horizontal and vertical synergies which is associated with its organizational goals and objectives. Therefore the limitations that have cropped up against government and institutional efforts to curtail informal individualization of the employment relationship are many. The literature review of this dissertation is based on the theoretical constructs, conceptual paradigms and empirical evidence. The legal relationship between the employer and the employee defines the very essence of the employment relationship (Healy, 1999). However it has been pointed out by critics that the existing labor legislation and social security provisions do not adequately cover up the requirements of employees. In fact the employment relationship has become more or less an individual arrangement devoid of universal contractual obligations as found in International Labor Organization’s (ILO) documents. This phenomenon has acquired a new dimension under different disguises and ruses adopted by employers and imposed on unsuspecting employees. The former tends to arrange an individualistic relationship with the latter on the basis of immediate benefits of employment while the latter agrees more or less due to personal compulsions. Despite the general vagueness of many labor laws and social security provisions in the US employers have got in to recruitment drives with the intention of sign in employment contracts on this particular premise, i.e. they come to a mutual agreement on their individual understanding of the law. For

Saint Augustine Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Saint Augustine - Term Paper Example He attended school in both Thagaste and Carhage (Musick 11). The social life he experienced as a teenager was full of sins. The children were taught to value material things from the time they were in school. Augustine grew in this world, and this made him encounter sexual behavior at an early age (Augustine 7). Augustine also engaged in false philosophies. As a teenager, he valued material things rather than God and religion. However, he explains how his uncouth behavior was punished through having a disorderly, confused and full of grief life. Nevertheless, the youthful Augustine creates a passion for the quest of philosophical truth. He also developed an interest in learning the â€Å"doctrines of manichaeism, skepticism and neoplatonism† (Wills 23). In his confessions, he incorporated catholic theology with neoplatonic concepts. Augustine’s movements from Thagate and Carthage and between Rome and Milan did not free him from doubts about Catholicism and its doctrines. He joined the catholic religion because his mother was from a catholic faith (Wills 24). Filled with doubts about the catholic religion he pursues a career in teaching of rhetoric, he later resented this job claiming that it was a waste of ideas. He also condemns his habit of being involved in sexual behavior at an early age and other sinful activities. When he visited Milan, he decided to embark on Catholicism as his only true faith (Wills 24). Nonetheless, the subject of baptism and abstinence from sex was still difficult for him. He had difficulties in devoting himself fully into the catholic faith. However, he gets full change in his Milan garden and he converts to a staunch and faithful catholic (Musick 12). The final four chapters of his book were based mostly on religious and philosophical concepts of â€Å"memory (Book X), time and eternity (Book XI), and the explanation of the Book of Genesis (Books XII and XIII)†. Even though, he changes the

Quanitative Research Method Paper Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Quanitative Method Paper - Research Proposal Example g on a number of endogenous and exogenous variables such as employers’ preferences, employees’ willingness to accept such relationships and even time related economic pressures such as the current global economic recession. The strategic competition has compelled organizations to adopt far reaching policy changes on employee relations with refers to both its operational strategy and the mission related corporate governance principles in order to achieve horizontal and vertical synergies which is associated with its organizational goals and objectives. Therefore the limitations that have cropped up against government and institutional efforts to curtail informal individualization of the employment relationship are many. The literature review of this dissertation is based on the theoretical constructs, conceptual paradigms and empirical evidence. The legal relationship between the employer and the employee defines the very essence of the employment relationship (Healy, 1999). However it has been pointed out by critics that the existing labor legislation and social security provisions do not adequately cover up the requirements of employees. In fact the employment relationship has become more or less an individual arrangement devoid of universal contractual obligations as found in International Labor Organization’s (ILO) documents. This phenomenon has acquired a new dimension under different disguises and ruses adopted by employers and imposed on unsuspecting employees. The former tends to arrange an individualistic relationship with the latter on the basis of immediate benefits of employment while the latter agrees more or less due to personal compulsions. Despite the general vagueness of many labor laws and social security provisions in the US employers have got in to recruitment drives with the intention of sign in employment contracts on this particular premise, i.e. they come to a mutual agreement on their individual understanding of the law. For

Research in Urban education Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

In Urban education - Research Paper Example In most cases, gender differences have been noticed when it comes to selection of particular subjects of study and overall college performance as well. In this paper, I would like to achieve an understanding of both sociological and psychological effects that single sex schools have on a student’s preference of certain major over others and also the impact that it may have on one’s personal development and ability to perform well in college and subsequently perform well in life. In the past few decades the interest in single sex education in both private and government schools has risen drastically. In fact the trend is the same in most countries including U.S, Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain. This has been attributed to underachievement of students and the practice of taking up gender-stereotypes subjects for study (Smyth, 2010). An individuals’ life choices is often based on his schooling and school attainment. This is simply because the quality of education at the school level plays a pivotal role in shaping a persons’ cognitive and behavioural aspects. Schooling and schooling atmosphere has broader implications on a student’s future choices and ability to perform in a much demanding college environment. Our education system regards single sex schools or sex segregated classes as an antidote to the inequality present among the genders. Single sex schools have been looked upon as an attempt to influence school attainment (Lee and Marks, 1992). From a more personal perspective I believe that the existence of the debate about the affect that single schools may have on education and career choice is very much vindicated. There exists both pros and cons when it comes to single sex schooling and co-educational schooling. In fact, the effect of such schooling is known to have more impacts on female students than on their male counterparts. Therefore, we one may say that the schooling system potentially impacts a female student’s life and

Why Switzerland and the United Kingdom Are Not Part of the European Union

Why Switzerland and the United Kingdom Are Not Part of the European Union Since World War II, Switzerland and Great Britain have gone through many political changes by reinforcing the foreign policy in their constitutions to protect the borders. When comparing these two governmental actions on policy, one can see the fate of the citizens in the two nations. The political powers these countries have are greatly interconnected with the world. It can be determined that the active role the United Kingdom plays in foreign affairs is superior to Switzerland in terms of creating economic political power and respect. However, Switzerland has had a long history of neutrality and has tried its best to not involve itself in European politics. This country has taken a neutral stance in regards to military action by maintaining and utilizing the Swiss military air force mainly for their protection. This is why these two rich and powerful countries are not part of the European Union. Recently, The European Union crisis has affected financially many different countries around the world. Therefore, the European Union has implemented the Euro as a common currency among seventeen countries.   Although there are many countries in Europe that may be part of the Euro zone, they will give very poor exchange rates.   Since 2008, the European Union has accumulated a lot of debt.   It has been struggling to pay their debt back to the Central Bank. This debt has damaged the European currency and has pushed many nations into recession.   This has lead to high unemployment rates and widespread poverty.   Countries like Switzerland do not want to be part of the European Union because the Swiss government feels that they will have to use their financial stability to help the economics of other countries. Switzerland has been an independent country since 1291; it is located between Germany, Italy, France and Austria.   The capital of Switzerland is Bern and the largest city is Zurich.   Switzerland has been considered to be one of the strongest countries in the middle of the European Union.   This is because a political institution that protects the nation maintained it aligned with the vision of its founders. â€Å"The Federal Assembly† is the primary seat of power. Although in practice the executive branch has been increasing its power at the expense of the legislative branch, the Federal Assembly has two houses:   the Council of states and the National Council.   In order for Switzerland to become part of the European Union, the Swiss government has to renounce their neutral power and financial stability. In 1992, the Swiss government applied for membership in the European Economic Area (EEA).   In a referendum on December 6, 1991, at a â€Å"historically high† turnout of 78.7%, the Swiss population narrowly rejected membership in the organization even though the liberals strongly supported membership†.   Subsequently to this, the Swiss government and the European Union permitted Switzerland to incorporate with the European Union without joining.   Switzerland’s foreign relations have avoided coalition that might involve military, political or monetary action. The Swiss constitution declares the preservation of Switzerland’s independence and welfare as the supreme objective of the Swiss foreign policy.   The structure laid down precise foreign policy to diplomatic consistence of the country to encourage high opinion for human rights, equality and the policy regulation. This was established to promote the Swiss economic interest around the world.  Ã‚   All through history, the Swiss have been known for their banks. There are many reasons for this, including privacy and good interest rates.   Europeans had accounts in the Swiss banks way before the war.   Jewish people in Germany put their money in the Swiss banks because they did not want Germany to steal it. This made many problems that are still trying to be solved today.   The Swiss government feels that they have an ethical responsibility to undertake social, monetary and humanitarian actions that contribute to world peace and harmony. Switzerland feels that they are able to participate without compromising their neutrality.   Switzerland is not part of the European nation which gives it its currency and economic power. Even though Switzerland’s view of isolation keeps it out of the European Union, it is not considered part of Europe.   Its solution to helping its neighbors with economic and security issues, is to do so in the most passive way possible. That is why the United Nations meets in Switzerland because of its state of neutrality and its constant involvement in peace with NATO.   According to a 2001 referendum, this can be done by the public in Switzerland.   Seventy percent of Swiss voters rejected any political movement towards European Union Membership.   Even with these numbers, the Swiss government is heavily divided over entering the European Union.   British and Switzerland voters see little benefits in the struggling European Union. The involvement of Great Britain in the Middle East along with other foreign affairs has secured many of their economic ventures, especially those in opening markets like British Petroleum oil companies. The economy gains and by doing this Switzerland influences the world. This world influence comes with more long term gains than that of short term and can have both positive and negative effects. Switzerland has very few enemies, receives less pressure from the world to get involved, and spends a large percentage of its budget on their military affairs.     The downside is that then Switzerland has to live by the rules of those who are more heavily involved in world affairs.   British foreign relations which mostly were inherited from England, originally pay to achieve stability of power from the inside of Europe.   No other country has achieved control over the relationships of the continent.      The British government relies heavily upon its foreign affairs policies.   The United Kingdom’s policy of being involved in world affairs greatly benefits the nation when it comes to monetary stability, world power, respect, and national security. The United Kingdom has a good relationship with Europe since the Second World War. Since then, Great Britain has become a member of the European Economic.   Even though Great Britain does not use the Euro and is not a member of the Euro zone, it still plays a leading role in the day to day working of the European Union. Great Britain had doubts when it came to being a part of the European Union and taking care of European Nations at the cost of the United Kingdom.   Great Britain was constantly pushing policies that furthered themselves from the European Union, including that of not using the Euro as their currency but rather keeping the British Pound, which was significantly stronger.   Joining the European Union was an uncharacteristic action by Great Britain.   In 1951, when the European Coal Steel Community was created Great Britain did not participate in it.   In 1957 it declined to join the six founding nations of the European Economic Community and in the signing of the treaty of Rome. Jean Monnet, one of the founders of the European Economic Community, said â€Å"I never understood why the British did not join†.   The conclusion that it must have been because it was the price of victory, the illusion that â€Å"You could maintain what you had, without change† as the United Kingdom constantly pushed itself away from Europe, it considered itself closer to the United States and maintained a special relationship with them. The laws of the land between the United Kingdom and Switzerland are drastically different. The United Kingdom’s common of formality with no real written down and unified constitution to Switzerland specifically states every right and liberty of the people and limitation of government power.   The United Kingdom’s constitution has evolved over the centuries, having a foundation of common law, Acts of Parliament, treaties, historical documents, and case law. It is not set out in any one clear and concise document which according to Justice Secretary â€Å"most people might struggle to put their finger on where their rights are† this is the problem with this type of law and rights of the United Kingdom.† However, the European Union has a concrete stone way to protect the economy of the European Union as well. The economy is integral in the European region which aims to unify its members.   The Economic and Monetary Union offers the exclusiveness of the single currency. This explains the gains, costs and qualifications of joining the European Union and the European Central Union Bank, its policies and implications with regards to the regional economic integration into the single currency. The gain and cost are very important to cover because the European region is not the only region that is trying to implement regional economic integration. The European integration policy relies within the members of the European Union.   The members themselves are the ones who make and decide policies. Members of the states are the ones who will either make the European Economic Monetary Union to succeed or fail and are the key of the regional economic integration’s progress.     They are the ones who know what is right and what is wrong regarding the policies to which the European Union stands. The European Union has a very particular way of selecting who can qualify for the European Economic and monetary union.   Criteria which was based on that the country satisfy the public deficit, interest rate and pass the qualifications. For countries to qualify for adopting the Euro, they have to sustain an inflation rate high enough to put up to the standards of others countries. Of course qualifications are not bias to just those counties that have high inflations.   The countries that qualified do not only have an increasing inflation rate but the need to sustain it.   At least every two years the European Central Bank Commission calls for a meeting to see the progress made and if the member’s states are fulfilling their obligations with regards to the standards of the Economic Monetary Union. These are stages they have to go through before they qualify for adopting the single currency. These criteria are all part of the stability and growth of the European Union.   A pact also covers the government deficit, which is the amount by which government spending exceeds government income within a given year.   The stability and growth pact requires ensuring their yearly deficits to not exceed 3% of their total annual production, thus keeping their economic balance. By keeping economic balance, the European Union would not have a problem when they implement the single currency. Countries who adopted the single currency and members of the European Union submit their budget plans to the European Commission who assesses them annually. There is also the public debt which is the total amount of accumulated government deficit which exceeds government income; the government concerned has borrowed money or raised taxes to fill the gap. The government ensures that they do not exceed 60 percent of their GDP (Gross Domestic Products) these rules are approved by all members of the European Union to demonstrate that the economic decision making is a matter of common concern and shared responsibility of all members of the European Union. According to the author Henseler Stephan (2008); â€Å"Reviewing European monetary unification† he stated that suppression of exchange rates would eliminate any risk regarding currency exchange, thus reducing interest rates.   This means that there will be no more conversion of money between countries that are members of the European Union. With the economic integration on route, the single currency could most likely be a very massive dream to come true. When crossing the borders of Europe, residents from the countries who adopted the single currency would most likely not be harassed by changing their currency.   In addition to this, economic and monetary union would project a push and pull scenario between all member states.   If the currency would increase its value it would be better for those who have less economic growth.   The playing field of integration of financial markets would be even. With this the currency of the European Union would be most the most independent with the US dollar. The independency on the US interest rate would be likely to fall with a strong European currency and economic area.   In conclusion, the political powers these countries have are greatly interconnected with the world. It can be determined that the active role the United Kingdom plays in foreign affairs is superior to Switzerland in terms of creating economic political power and respect. Excluding the fact that there are still areas to be changed by the European Union, as also the standards they set for the regional economic integration.   The European Economy that was created to protect the countries has been a success for them and it is still progressing up to this date.   In the future we can surely foresee that there will be more countries who will adopt the single currency offered by the economic union. The European Economy has been a great achievement for the members of the European Union, there are still a lot of adjustments that need to be done regarding the policies of the Economy until then Switzerland and the United Kingdom will remain independent from the European Union. References Henseler, Stephan  (2008)  Reviewing European monetary unification.   Diplomarbeit University of Vienna.  Fakultà ¤t fà ¼r Wirtschaftswissenschaften   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Debt_crisis https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switzerland_during_the_World_Warshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreign_relations_of_the_United_Kingdom Policy Exchange Home http://www.conservapedia.com/Switzerland