E-procurement and E-supply Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

E-procurement and E-supply - Coursework Example Internet and e-business has become so much popular these days and a lot of business is moving towards e-business. This is specially the case with both large and small business. People like to market their product or project online as it takes less cost and benefits are much higher if properly planned. E-business and marketing are indispensible to each other, if one has a marvelous goods, products or services but he doesn’t have accurate and strong market skills; there are less chances of its success. On the other hand, if a person has normal quality products but he knows how to market them at economical rates, its results will be much better. E-procurement is an accommodative procurement of products, services and tasks using any electronic procedure in every stage for boosting in efficiency & transparency of the goods or services. Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology According to Venkatesh et al. (2003), there is a requirement to improve business’s men kno wledge of technology Utilization by investigating newer applications, accounting for additional difference in usage attitude and connecting it to individual usage results. the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) that incorporates major drivers and balks of web systems usage for e-procurement, investigates the consequence of such usage on corporate buyers and heightens the overall view of the UTAUT. It is calculated that eighty to ninety percent of the deals conducted over the Internet are business-to-business deals (Rosen and Howard, 2000). Although, little research has incorporated on web systems utilization from the point of view of corporate buyers. Figure 1: Research Model E-procurement has many objectives, few of them are: To perform as the catalyst for procurement reclaim, to improve transparency, supervising and manage in procurement procedure, to add in economies of scale via accumulation of demand, to cut off the cost of doing business for both suppli ers and government, to launch level playing field and â€Å"fair† private-enterprise platform for the suppliers. E-tendering is the second concept of e-procurement, features of e-tendering are: Publication of NIT, downloading of tender documents by contractors and suppliers, bids opening, Auto-bid evaluation, award publication. There are some famous examples of e-procurement: Public procurement service, Korea, Gebiz Singapore and Indian railways. E-procurement methodologies include software that allows purchasing agents to book their required items from various locations and generate invoices, purchase orders, receipts and request for quotations. Online auctions are another tool of e-procurement. Cathy-Pacific had a good plan to e-procurement but there are some flaws in their plan. Website marketing and online auction, selling is one of the best options via the web but it needs proper management, they had focus on –procurement but they didn’t focus on management and maintenance of such a long project. No doubt, their plan is good for cost reduction but some areas need proper attention like ticket booking and seat allocation needs extensive care and proper management as if it becomes tough, passenger will surely face issues at the time of travelling. No matter, which method they have used but by applying proper and accurate e-procurement technology they could gain a lot

The Impact of Maternal Iron Deficiency and IDA on Childhood Essay

The Impact of Maternal Iron Deficiency and IDA on Childhood - Essay Example This leads to the complication during pregnancy and may trigger post-pregnancy complications to the mother and child. In a bid to determine the impact of maternal iron deficiency and IDA on childhood, an extensive literature review was conducted. The review identified sources that exhibited relevance to the research question and that were recent. After analysis of the sources, which were both primary and secondary sources, the findings were compiled and have been presented in the discussion. From this literature review, it emerges that children and women are the risk groups likely to develop anaemia. Iron deficiency has been described as the leading nutritional condition in the globe. Moreover, 52% of expectant mothers do not meet the recommended iron level. Deficiency of iron in expectant mothers presents several symptoms such as fatigue, paleness, faint feeling, sour mouth and tinnitus. The causes of iron deficiency will be described in depth in this paper. In pregnant women, lack of sufficient weight gain may present a higher risk to the development of iron deficiency. Iron deficiency has adverse effects on both the mother and the unborn baby. In some cases, effect on the unborn babies my progress to early childhood. Prop er diet and iron supplementation are some of the leading interventions. The World Health Organization (1) states that anaemia is a haemoglobin level of less than 13 g/dL for males 15 years and above, less than 12 g/dL in non-expectant women 15 years and above, and less than 11 g/dL in women who have conceived. The criteria used to diagnose anaemia are not standardised. Moreover, there is a lack of clarity as to the differentiation between functional iron deficiency and absolute iron deficiency (2). Additionally, what is defined as the standard range for haemoglobin also differs within a given population.

Perception of elderly people in Singapore

Perception of elderly people in Singapore Singapore is rapidly facing ageing population where the proportion of residents aged 65 and above increased from 14% of the resident population in 1998 and this is set to rise to 27% in 2015. An increase in life expectancy has led to the increase in proportion of elderly people. Other reasons were due to the ageing of the baby boomers, decrease in infant and early childhood mortality rate and low birth rates. In todays society, our perception of elderly people is often that of dependency, slow and disregarded. Misconceptions arise about ageing, leading to stereotyping and social discrimination. A common stereotype states that most elderly people are either unhealthy or ill. When elderly people are unsure of themselves, they are considered to be senile. They are also accused of being old when they forgot a sentence. It was the older generation who worked hard and they deserve to be respected by society. With more and more people becoming old, it is important to pay attention to the legal issues surrounding elders. We need to confront such concerns now so that people are able to look forward to enjoying their old age in peace in the future. Addressing the problem of discrimination in Singapore is therefore a key step in further developing and building up our nation. Through undertaking these suggestions, we can hope towards a better future for Singapore, one free from discrimination and abuse of human rights. Therefore, it is vital that companies and individuals change their mindset and be more supportive towards older generation. Hence, this report will highlight the issue on discrimination against elderly people especially in the workplace. Measures taken at the company and national level to combat this social discrimination against the elderly people are also discussed. Many people discriminate elderly people and this is prevalent in the workplace. Age discrimination occurs when older worker is discriminated against by an employer because of their age. A recent survey by Kelly Services discovered that majority of the 1,500 respondents polled in Singapore, experienced some type of prejudice when applying for a job in the last five years and the main reason for discrimination, which contributed to 29 percent, was age. Majority of the older workers did not complete their secondary education due to limited educational opportunities. Hence, they have a lower skilled job. As firms seek higher productivity, current jobs are being automated and improvised, resulting in multiple and higher skills requirements. This eventually leads to older workers, with low education and holding unskilled jobs, being retrenched. Even if low skilled jobs are available, older workers still face competition from younger and cheaper foreign workers. Many companies are biased against older workers and still prefer to hire younger employees. Such discrimination fails to tap fully the older workers contributions. In addition, due to the high cost of hiring older workers and perception among employers that they are less productive and open to new ideas, many firms are less likely to hire them. As such, employers may encourage early retirement or layoff disproportionately older workers. This is usually seen in computer and entertainment industries. As a result, we often see older workers picking up empty cans or selling tissue papers. Other stereotypical old-age occupations that come into mind will be cleaners and servers at fast food restaurants. Age discrimination has a negative effect on the economy and society. Discriminating age is harmful to a company because older people are full of experiences. By not hiring them, it deprived them of securing a job. The effect on the economy is evident in older workers depleting life savings which were meant for retirement. Borrowing money from financial institutions and maxing out credit cards may be the only solutions for some unemployed people to survive. Medical needs either go unmet or the unemployed person must seek help via subsidies to pay for medication. Depression also rises when people become discouraged from the loss of a job, a home and a livelihood. However, we have Central Provision Fund (CPF) and Medisave which our Singapore government have implemented to provide Singaporeans with a retirement income to meet their basic needs in old age. Another example of discrimination against the elderly people was due to their deteriorating intelligence, they are incapable of making independent decisions such as owning financial property, or living independently. People see this as a negative attitude which is often translated into their ageist actions. There seems to be a trend for the elderly to live on their own, away from their children. It is because some people feel that elderly people is a burden as they are often sick and dependant. Therefore, they will put them in the care of caregivers in the elderly homes, thinking that they have provided them the best in terms of basic needs. However, they are wrong as they have unnoticeably discriminated against them by having a perception that they are a burden, slow, and dependent. United Kingdom (UK) also faces discrimination against the elderly in the workplace. However, older people want to work beyond state pension age and employers are positive about retaining them. Various surveys show that there is a keen attitude amongst older employees for flexible working and flexible pensions. The government encourages older workers to continue working and employers recognize them as a valuable resource. Instead, we should appreciate old age and understand that there is nothing wrong about growing old. We should not identify old age with imagery of despondency. There is a need to rethink on how we can care for the elderly and combat this social discrimination. Under Singapores laws (with some exceptions), the government cannot fine or take any legal action against employers who choose to discriminate. Individuals also cannot sue employers. Recognising the need for older workers to remain employed, the government has come up with various measures which include the extension of the retirement age to 62, reduction in the costs of employing older workers, Back-to-Work programs to encourage the economically inactive to enter the labour force and re-training and skills upgrading of older workers. To reduce the cost of employing older workers, the employers CPF contribution rate for older workers aged 55 and above has decreased and employers can cut wages of workers aged above 60 by up to 10%. Employers have moved away from the seniority wage system and turned to a performance-based wage system. An SHRI (2007) survey revealed that only 14% of Singapore employers use a seniority wage system, while 61% are offering a performance-based wage system. Thus, this enables older workers to be hired because the wages increase with age using a seniority wage system. In the workplace, employers are encouraged to employ older workers and to job redesign. An example will be NTUC FairPrice where they hired older workers and assisted them in job upgrading and career transitions. Older workers can also enrol themselves in training programs to upgrade their skills and this ensures their employability. This is especially so in an increasingly knowledge based Economy. For older workers, learning should not only be seen as an advantage for employment but also for self enrichment and fulfilment. The raising of the retirement age to 62 also enables older workers to secure jobs. Employers have to rethink their attitudes towards employing older workers and make the necessary adjustments e.g. modification of work processes to accommodate older workers. For example, in McDonalds, icons of hamburgers and fries are printed on the cash registers to help older workers key in the right orders. However, their success still depends heavily on employers because it is important that they change their attitudes so that they do not employ employees on the grounds on age. Recently, a tripartite committee (consisting of Singapore National Employers Federation, National Trades Union Congress and the Ministry of Manpower) was set up. They have come up with a set of guidelines on Non- Discriminatory Job Advertisements to discourage employers from adopting discriminatory criteria (such as race, religion, or age) in their recruitment practices. They should avoid stipulating age as a requirement for employment. Public and private sector employers also have to pledge to comply with the non-discriminatory practices. The implementation of the guidelines was successful as there was a significant drop in the percentage of newspaper advertisements stipulating discriminatory criteria from 30% in February to less than 1% in April this year. In Singapore the approach used is more promotional and educational than through legislation as it would be too rigid. This is in contrast with countries such as United Kingdom (UK). UK employment equality law combats prejudice in the workplace as it prohibits discrimination against people based on gender, race, religion, sexuality, disability and age. In UK, It will be unlawful to discriminate against an employee under the age of 65 based on age. Employers are unable to specify that a new recruit should be above or below a particular age. In addition, employers who sack workers or deny them the same training opportunities as their colleagues on age grounds will break the law. The governments also promotes the employment of older workers through re-training programmes, job referrals, career advice, promotion of community service employment and subsidies to employers. Australia: The Aussies have very strong anti-discriminatory hiring practices. When a jobseeker sends in his resume, he can choose not to provide details like address, race, gender, age, religion and photograph. The employers will only decide to interview the candidate based on his working experience and qualifications. In fact, older workers are valuable. Some have argued that they are slow in acquiring new skills. However, older workers perform well in a learning environment involving more hands-on practices, usually those which require customer-sales relationships. The growing importance of services industry in Singapore will expand its employment of older workers as the nature of work will be more dependent on soft skills e.g. in service delivery. In conclusion, government policies can have an impact on the hiring of older workers. Most importantly, it is still the older persons themselves who want to work and employers who provide them with opportunities. As quoted by Ralph B. Perry, Age should not have its face lifted, but it should rather teach the world to admire wrinkles as the etchings of experience and the firm line of character. Why affects society and important? How it creates inequality? Source Citation Elderly Rights. Global Issues in Context Online Collection. Detroit: Gale, 2010. Global Issues In Context. Web. 26 Apr. 2010. Palmore, E.B. (1999). Ageism: Negative and Positive. Published by Springer Publishing Company, USA. http://books.google.ca/books?hl=enlr=id=Cg4_DTUuV4ICoi=fndpg=PR3dq=ageismots=82vyBdgdhisig=9aWPYcDpexnP2k2UZNBHEYAUY6g#PPT11,M1 http://theonlinecitizen.com/2009/03/employers-still-discriminating-against-older-workers/ http://www.sma.org.sg/smj/3810/articles/3810e1.htm http://find.galegroup.com.libwww3.np.edu.sg/gic/docRetrieve.do?inPS=truesearchPageType=BasicSearchFormprodId=GICdocId=CP3208520212userGroupName=ngeeann http://www.singstat.gov.sg/stats/themes/people/popinbrief2009.pdf http://theonlinecitizen.com/2007/01/time-to-get-tough-on-job-discrimination-part-one/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom_employment_equality_law http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/5378876.stm http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=954240 http://www.eu-seniorunion.info/en/activities/againstviolence/default.htm http://www.helium.com/items/819264-age-discrimination-and-its-effect-on-the-economy-and-society Effects of Discrimination in the Workplace http://socyberty.com/issues/discrimination-in-singapore/#ixzz0nLydnLU3 http://mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/CPF/About-Us/Intro/Intro.htm http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7718436.stm http://www.cipd.co.uk/subjects/dvsequl/agedisc/ageandemp.htm?IsSrchRes=1

Determinism, Objectivity, and Pessimism in The Open Boat :: Open Boat Essays

Determinism, Objectivity, and Pessimism in The Open Boat      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Stephen Crane's short story "The Open Boat", the American literary school of naturalism is used and three of the eight features are most apparent, making this work, in my opinion, a good example of the school of naturalism. These three of the eight features are determinism, objectivity, and pessimism. They show, some more than others, how Stephen Crane viewed the world and the environment around him.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Determinism is of course the most obvious of the three features. Throughout the entire story, the reader gets a sense that the fate of   the four main characters, the cook, the oiler, the correspondent, and the captain are totally pre-determined by nature and that they were not their own moral agents. "The little boat, lifted by each towering sea and splashed viciously by the crests, made progress that in the absence of seaweed was not apparent to those in her." The characters had no control over their boat, rather nature was totally in control. "She seemed just a wee thing wallowing, miraculously top up, at the mercy of the five oceans. Occasionally a great spread of water, like white flames, swarmed into her." (pg.145) There is also a sense that man is totally not important to the natural forces controlling his fate. "When it occurs to man that nature does not regard him as important, and that she feels she would not maim the universe by disposing of him, he at first wishes to throw bricks at the temple, and he hates deeply that there are no bricks and no temples." (pg156) The one character who perishes, the oiler, is of course a victim of determinism. Even as he was so close to land and no longer out in the open sea, nature still takes its role in determining his fate.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Objectivity refers to how the author describes reality as it exists, that is, not glorifying something, but rather simply stating the observation. The fact that the narrator is the correspondent in itself give an impression on how the story is going to be told in a more journalistic sense, describing actual events instead of feelings or ideas. " In the meantime the oiler and the correspondent rowed. They sat together in the same seat, and each rowed an oar.

Potential Problems and Solutions For International Students

Travelling abroad can be an exciting and life-changing event in one’s life. The opportunity to study in another country is a unique and fulfilling experience, both academically and personally. The percentage of international students in universities is rising steadily each year. Although an international study opportunity is a rare adventure, there are several problems international students can face when attending school in a foreign country. International students should be aware of the potential problems and be prepared in advance to successfully solve anything that comes their way.The biggest problem international students face today is financial challenges. It is expensive to travel to a foreign country to study. In most cases there are no opportunities for scholarships or sponsor assistance. Most programs allow students to work part-time, however in most countries it will be extremely difficult for international students to find work. In addition, international students are typically not allowed to participate in any foreign country’s welfare or government financial assistance programs. International students with families are often permitted to bring them along as their dependents.This can create enormous financial problems for the student as their family can only accompany them if they have previous funds to maintain themselves during their stay. The student’s spouse should not need to work during the stay to maintain basic needs. If it seems the family is not financially secure enough to maintain themselves, they will not be permitted to enter the country. Although this is the main rule of international student spouse employment, there are situations in which employment rights can be granted based on length of stay.One specific financial burden international students often face is health care costs. There is no guarantee an international student will be healthy for their entire stay. Some countries offer health care options dependi ng on the student’s length of stay. The UK offers services from the National Health Service for students who have a stay of six months or longer. This free health care option also applies to the student’s family. International students face several financial problems, however there are solutions. The best thing a student can do before their initial travel is to put aside money for their expenses.Most universities provide prospective international students will fee estimates that include average utility and grocery costs as well as academic expenses. It is wise for students to bring at least fifteen percent more than you expect to use during the stay. This emergency fund can be helpful in case of inflation or other unexpected costs. For students who do not qualify for the foreign country’s healthcare programs, travel insurance is something they should consider. Students should not assume health insurance used in their home country would cover any unexpected healt h care costs in the foreign country.Most travel insurance can be purchased according to the length of stay. Being prepared for the unexpected is the one task every international student should make priority. Creating an emergency savings fund is an excellent way for the student to ensure their financial and personal safety during their stay. In addition to a savings fund, students should remember to research health care options for their stay as well. International study opportunities are priceless in academic and personal worth, however without proper preparation they can be extremely expensive and can create an unnecessary financial burden for the student and their family. Sources: Porter, Darwin. Frommer’s Italy 2005. 2004. Wiley Publishing, Inc. UKCOSA Guidance Notes. 2005. http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/pages/guidenote.htm (11 May 2005). Â  

Water shortage may be next cause of world war

While much attention and debate have been correctly focused on the impending planet-wide oil shortage, a far greater calamity awaits us as the reality of the looming global water crisis becomes more apparent. It is not unreasonable to wonder whether the next world war will be fought over oil or water.No resource on Earth is more precious than water. While ongoing events draw our attention to oil, we ignore what will become the most serious resource issue in this century – the international water shortage. The reports that nearly a third of the world’s population lacks clean water for personal daily use and estimates that by 2025 that number will grow to half of the world’s population. A number of world leaders have even suggested that the next world war could be sparked by water disputes.In places as different as the American west, the Middle East, Northern Africa, and China the problem of diminishing water supplies is becoming steadily more serious and more dang erous. The World Bank has reported that as many as 80 countries now have water shortages that threaten their economies as well as their citizens’ health, while 40 percent of the world’s population have no access to clean water and sanitation.In addition, more than a dozen nations receive most of their water from rivers that cross borders of neighbouring countries viewed as hostile. As readily as people and countries ï ¬ ght over control of oil, one can only imagine what it will be like when our precious life source of water is no longer available in sufficient quantities.According to Frank Rijsberman, the director of the International Water Management Institute, â€Å"Globally, water usage has increased six times in the past 100 years and will double again by 2050, driven mainly by irrigation and demands of agriculture.†The consequences of this increase in demand will be widespread scarcity and rapidly increasing water prices. As described in a report issued l ast August by WWF, the global conservation organization, rather than being simply a problem effecting poor and undeveloped countries, the â€Å"combination of climate change and drought and loss of wetlands that store water, along with poorly thought out water infrastructure and resources management, is making this (water) crisis truly global.†In the Middle East, Israelis and Palestinians are ï ¬ ghting over shrinking water resources. In China & India more than 400 of 600 towns & nearby cities are suffering water shortages and in Peru, as around the world, mountain glaciers are in retreat, taking with them vast stores of water that grow crops, generate electricity and sustain communities.â€Å"The situation will only be exacerbated as climate change is predicted to bring lower rainfall, increased evaporation and changed patterns of snow melting.†So what is to be done about this imminent case of water insecurity? The most important ï ¬ rst step is to develop a bette r method of agricultural irrigation. Presently 70 percent of all water use is agricultural, with 60 percent of that water being wasted, primarily through seepage and evaporation. Other strategies to address this growing global water problem include: water conservation, more desalination plants, slowing population growth, reducing pollution, and simply better managing the supply and demand of our most precious resource.Ultimately, there will be no remedy for this seemingly intractable problem unless and until truly sustainable practices of water conservation are undertaken at the personal, national and global level. If we fail to do this, and don’t learn to conserve and cooperate, the war(s) for control of the oil in the Middle East will appear mere picnics by comparison.And in addition to the already existing â€Å"No Blood for Oil† protest signs, our  newest antiwar protesters will be carrying signs saying, â€Å"No War for Water.†

Writing the Analysis Paper

Writing the Analysis Paper Writing the Analysis Paper Writing the Analysis Paper: Universal Approach Those people who get excellent grades for their analysis papers know the mechanism of writing them, and those, who get low grades, face a what-to-start-with problem and many others. The main problems and solutions to them are discussed in the article. First of all, start with answering the following two questions:Whom are you writing for? What is the purpose of you analysis paper? The answer to the first question will help you to define the language of the analysis paper (formal or informal). After answering both questions you will clarify what type of the analysis paper (an article, a report or a term paper) is adequate for you purpose. Every type of the analysis paper determines its format. And when you answer the second question it will become clear to you what research methods should be applied. Now after you have made up your mind about what language, type of the analysis paper, format and methods of research to use, you have to write the analysis paper itself. Three Tips On How To Write A Flawless Analysis PaperBuilt a logic tree. A typical logic tree consists of the main block with the name of the topic (or a problem) inside and complementary blocks with chapters and paragraphs linked to the main one. Such tree helps to make the structure of your analysis paper evident and diagnose mistakes in logic if any. Concretize the topic. Strange as it may appear, but the analysis paper topics should be concretized after the analysis paper is written. Your topic has to contain the purpose of the analysis paper or a problem that is solved in it and restrictions. Restrictions can be qualitative, quantitative and temporal. For instance, the topic How the profits of LMZ Ltd. will change with the introduction of energy-efficient technologies in 2011 contains all abovementioned restrictions. Take your time. After you have written the analysis paper, put it aside for few days. After wait-and-see approach return back to your analysis paper for revision. This method will help you to take a fresh look on what you wrote and correct mistakes.We Offer Professional Help with Analysis Paper Writing Writing the analysis paper is a skill that can be gained with practice. But with the help of recommendations in this article you will simplify your work on the analysis paper, correct and prevent egregious mistakes and after a while become a master of the analysis papers.

Free Essays on Obsessive Compulsive Dissorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a mental disorder where your brain seems to get ‘stuck’ on an idea or thought, and can’t let it go. Some people who have OCD describe it as â€Å"mental hiccups† because the thoughts keep reoccurring until something, or several things are done repeatedly to relieve the urge or thought. These thoughts include worries, doubts, or superstitious beliefs brought to an excessive, painful level. The doctor’s definition of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a â€Å"mental disorder which causes problems with information processing.† Symptoms of OCD always include an obsession, and a compulsion. An obsession is a persistent disturbing preoccupation with an often-unreasonable idea or feeling. Obsession symptoms include forbidden thoughts, a need to have things ‘just so’ or perfect, or a need to tell, ask, or confess. A compulsion is an action or several actions done to relieve the obsession. Compulsions include ordering, arranging, hoarding, saving, checking, or praying. There are hundreds of different symptoms because everyone with this disorder is different. People that are affected by OCD say that the obsessions are images and urges that occur so repeatedly that it feels uncontrollable. The afflicted person usually doesn’t make sense of these ideas, and never wants to have them. The obsessions are usually followed by bouts of fear, disgust, and self doubt. And sensations of guilt and wrong doing. The OCD affected person describes the compulsion, as the after actions of the obsession. By performing these compulsions, the person is trying to erase all of his or her obsessions. Usually the afflicted person has rules, or rituals, which determine a certain way in which the compulsion must be acted out, such as locking the door five times before bed, or washing hands eight times before any meal. With obsessive compulsive disorder, the compulsions are not a form of pleasure such as drinking or gambling ... Free Essays on Obsessive Compulsive Dissorder Free Essays on Obsessive Compulsive Dissorder Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a mental disorder where your brain seems to get ‘stuck’ on an idea or thought, and can’t let it go. Some people who have OCD describe it as â€Å"mental hiccups† because the thoughts keep reoccurring until something, or several things are done repeatedly to relieve the urge or thought. These thoughts include worries, doubts, or superstitious beliefs brought to an excessive, painful level. The doctor’s definition of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a â€Å"mental disorder which causes problems with information processing.† Symptoms of OCD always include an obsession, and a compulsion. An obsession is a persistent disturbing preoccupation with an often-unreasonable idea or feeling. Obsession symptoms include forbidden thoughts, a need to have things ‘just so’ or perfect, or a need to tell, ask, or confess. A compulsion is an action or several actions done to relieve the obsession. Compulsions include ordering, arranging, hoarding, saving, checking, or praying. There are hundreds of different symptoms because everyone with this disorder is different. People that are affected by OCD say that the obsessions are images and urges that occur so repeatedly that it feels uncontrollable. The afflicted person usually doesn’t make sense of these ideas, and never wants to have them. The obsessions are usually followed by bouts of fear, disgust, and self doubt. And sensations of guilt and wrong doing. The OCD affected person describes the compulsion, as the after actions of the obsession. By performing these compulsions, the person is trying to erase all of his or her obsessions. Usually the afflicted person has rules, or rituals, which determine a certain way in which the compulsion must be acted out, such as locking the door five times before bed, or washing hands eight times before any meal. With obsessive compulsive disorder, the compulsions are not a form of pleasure such as drinking or gambling ...

Al-Khwarizmi, a Pioneering Astronomer and Mathematician

Al-Khwarizmi, a Pioneering Astronomer and Mathematician Al-Khwarizmi​ was also known as Abu Jafar Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi. He was known for writing major works on astronomy and mathematics that introduced Hindu-Arabic numerals and the idea of algebra to European scholars. The Latinized version of his name gave us the term algorithm, and the title of his most famous and important work gave us the word algebra. What Professions Did Al-Khwarizami Have? Writer, scientist, astronomer, geographer,  and mathematician. Places of Residence Asia, Arabia Important Dates Born:  c. 786Died:  c. 850 About Al-Khwarizmi Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi was born in Baghdad in the 780s, around the time Harun al-Rashid became the fifth Abbasid caliph. Haruns son and successor, al-Mamun, founded an academy of science known as the House of Wisdom (Dar al-Hikma). Here, research was conducted and scientific and philosophic treatises were translated, particularly Greek works from the Eastern Roman Empire. Al-Khwarizmi became a scholar at the House of Wisdom. At this important center of learning, al-Khwarizmi studied algebra, geometry, and astronomy. He wrote influential texts on the subjects. He appears to have received the specific patronage of al-Mamun, to whom he dedicated two of his books: his treatise on algebra and his treatise on astronomy. Al-Khwarizmis treatise on algebra, al-Kitab al-mukhtasar fi hisab al-jabr waÊ ¾l-muqabala (â€Å"The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing†), was his most important and well-known work. Elements of Greek, Hebrew, and Hindu works that were derived from Babylonian mathematics of more than 2,000 years earlier were incorporated into al-Khwarizmis treatise. The term al-jabr in its title brought the word algebra into western use when it was translated into Latin several centuries later.   Although it sets forth the basic rules of algebra, Hisab al-jabr wal-muqabala had a practical objective: to teach. As al-Khwarizmi put it: ...what is easiest and most useful in arithmetic, such as men constantly require in cases of inheritance, legacies, partition, lawsuits, and trade, and in all their dealings with one another, or where the measuring of lands, the digging of canals, geometrical computations, and other objects of various sorts and kinds are concerned. Hisab al-jabr wal-muqabala included examples as well as algebraic rules in order to help the reader with these practical applications. Al-Khwarizmi also produced a work on Hindu numerals. These symbols, which we recognize as the Arabic numerals used in the west today, originated in India and had only recently been introduced into Arabic mathematics. Al-Khwarizmis treatise describes the place-value system of numerals from 0 to 9 and may be the first known use of a symbol for zero as a place-holder (a blank space had been used in some methods of calculation). The treatise provides methods for arithmetical calculation, and it is believed that a procedure for finding square roots was included. Unfortunately, the original Arabic text is lost. A Latin translation exists, and though it is thought to be considerably changed from the original, it did make an important addition to western mathematical knowledge. From the word Algoritmi in its title, Algoritmi de numero Indorum (in English, Al-Khwarizmi on the Hindu Art of Reckoning), the term algorithm came into western usage. In addition to his works in mathematics, al-Khwarizmi made important strides in geography. He helped create a world map for al-Mamun and took part in a project to find the Earths circumference, in which he measured the length of a degree of a meridian in the plain of Sinjar. His book Kitab surat al-ará ¸  (literally The Image of the Earth, translated as Geography), was based on the geography of Ptolemy and provided the coordinates of approximately 2,400 sites in the known world, including cities, islands, rivers, seas, mountains, and general geographical regions. Al-Khwarizmi improved on Ptolemy with more accurate values for sites in Africa and Asia, and for the length of the Mediterranean Sea.   Al-Khwarizmi wrote yet another work that made it into the western canon of mathematical studies: a compilation of astronomical tables. This included a table of sines, and either its original or an Andalusian revision was translated into Latin. He also produced two treatises on the astrolabe, one on the sundial and one on the Jewish calendar, and wrote a political history that included the horoscopes of prominent people. The precise date of al-Khwarizmis death is unknown. Sources Agarwal, Ravi P. Creators of Mathematical and Computational Sciences. Syamal K. Sen, 2014th Edition, Springer, November 13, 2014. OConnor, J. J. Abu Jafar Muhammad ibn Musa Al-Khwarizmi. E. F. Robertson, School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of St Andrews, Scotland, July 1999. Surhone, Lambert M. (Editor). The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing. Miriam T. Timpledon, Susan F. Marseken, VDM Publishing, August 10, 2010. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. Al-Khwarizmi. Encyclopaedia Britannica, July 20, 1998.

Service Quality and Operations (A REPORT) Essay

Service Quality and Operations (A REPORT) - Essay Example Marriott Hotel Empire which started as a small company in 1927 in Washington D.C. by John Marriot of Utah. But due to its consistent efforts, today this company is serving in 67 countries and has about 3150 lodging properties. Different operation strategies, marketing strategies, maintenance of quality, employee empowerment and customer satisfaction are the key points that have enabled the success of this organization. Marriot has adopted a rigorous marketing policy, where this company is catering almost all market segments, i.e. it is not only allocating the high class but also deals with business class and the lower class. According to the research conducted in 2008, this company had built its strong network with its suppliers, customers and employees. it has also build a strong sense of teamwork among employees, maintained a positive and supportive management style. They believe customers as their guests and due to this they have enforced strict quality measures and strict quality control on all its hotels and motels. Kandampully et al. (2001) reported in his book that J.W. Marriott himself stated a philosophy in treating employees in the following statement, i.e. â€Å"take care of your employee and they will take care of you†. Every company whether it belongs to a manufacturing industry or a service sector has to carry out daily operations and transactions. Due to this operational management is extremely important OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT Not just Marriott but there are basic ten main tasks or critical decisions that every company, manager and an employee has to undertake in order to effectively manage operations. In the book by Henzer & Render (2006) mentioned the operations management ten strategic decisions, such as; service and product design, quality management, process and capacity design, location, layout design, human resource and job design, supply chain management,

Logic and critical thinking class Research Paper

Logic and critical thinking class - Research Paper Example This paper, therefore, discusses children as victims or media victimize offenders in a crime. As a result, it discusses the manner in which media conduct interviews and news coverage, whether they stick to legal requirements, and access the manner in which children are victimized in the reporting processes. Victimization of Children Currently, media is seen as a source of all social problems in the world. Media not only provides access to but also constructs social problems in view of their multiple effects on people. It has been blamed by wide group of people including critics and theorists for promoting crimes against humanity such as violence, sexism, racism, homophobia, and other oppressive phenomena. Media has caused social harm by negatively influencing children and youth, pornography, degradation of women, and promotion of excessive materialism (Tandon, 2007). There is rising concern over issues to do with media interviewing victims at the wrong time, recording and airing clip s of bodies, revealing the negative sides only, revealing identity of juveniles, and inappropriate digging into the past of victims. The media coverage on crime gives rise to increased responses from community, which include vigilance, sorrow, revenge, and caution. A critical exploration of social media coverage of crime victims is crucial in the development of crime policy and popular imagination. Not all victims of a crime receive equal treatment in the social media news. In most cases, intense media coverage is devoted to victims with a questionable past are regarded as ‘ideal’. The ideal victims refer to a person or individuals who receive a legitimate status of being a victim upon being hit by a crisis (Tandon, 2007). This category of victims includes defenseless, innocent, vulnerable, and worthy of sympathy victims. Elderly women and children categorically fit into this group. On the contrary, young men, homeless people, drug addicts, and others marginalized in th e society may find it difficult to attain the status of legitimate victims (Nielson, 2003). In addition, media may misrepresent, under-represent, or over-represent victims of crime. Since children and adolescents are seen as future leaders, any engagement in deviant practices is viewed as declination of the society into moral chaos. The concentration on children means that deviant behaviours lead to more victimization than would have been involved if adults were involved. Under the law, children are not deviant from birth. Their behaviour is influenced by socio-economic factors and psychological problems. The law therefore, protects children and provides them with facilities for rehabilitation. The Rights of the Child in the UN Convention states that one is regarded a child until he or she reaches the age of 18. Consequently, the juvenile Act of 2000 also mentions that 18 years is the age of children. Therefore, it is illegal to publish or air any information regarding persons less than 18 years in the media. However, it is common to spot violation of this law in the media. The analysis below proves the claim (Fritz, 1992). In an article that appeared in Times of India in 2003, two children were published as being responsible for heinous crimes. Indeed, their actions were strange and needed condemnation; however, the media should have exercised some strain in reporting the crimes since the victims were minors. The article portrayed a very negative

ISO 14644 FOR AN IAP CLEAN ROOM CLASS 8 IN RESPECT OF 0.5 UM PARTICLES Essay

ISO 14644 FOR AN IAP CLEAN ROOM CLASS 8 IN RESPECT OF 0.5 UM PARTICLES - Essay Example Several items must be taken into consideration when approaching the use of a cleanroom. First, air is an extremely important item to take a close look at. The air that is coming into a cleanroom must be filtered in order to get rid of dust, while at the same time, the air inside the cleanroom must be recirculated through high efficiency particulate air (also known as HEPA) and/or through the use of an ultra low penetration air (ULPA) filter in order to get rid of contaminants that can be created internally. Furthermore, in order to control any other possible contaminants that may enter, those working in the cleanroom must leave through airlocks (which sometimes also forces an air shower), along with protective clothing. Within the cleanroom, the equipment has been made to create minimal air contamination. These include the use of specialized mops and buckets. The furniture that can be found within the cleanroom also gathers a very minimal amount of particles and is easy to clean. How ever, cleanrooms are not sterile, as much of the attention here is focused on airborne particles. These levels can often be tested through the use of a particle counter (Particle Measuring Systems, 2009). In order to avoid a disruptive air leak, many cleanrooms contain items that keep them at positive pressure. This means that if there are any leaks, the air will leak out of the chamber instead of bringing in any air that might not have been filtered. To further control air, some cleanroom systems will keep humidity to very low levels. This is done often to make sure that there are no electrostatic, or ESD problems. These EST controls are also referred to as ionizers (Clearn Room Forum, n.d.). Cleanrooms are generally given their status based on the number and size of particles allowed per the volume of air. Numbers that are typically larger, like "class 100," are usually referred to by FED-STD-209E, and denote particle number at a size of 0.5um or larger, depending on the cubic foot of air. Smaller numbers refer to ISP 14644-1 standards, and these focus on the decimal logarithm of the number of particles 0.1um or larger permitted per cubic metre of air (Clean Room Certification Standards, 2009). Thus, a class 8 cleanroom has at most 108 = 100,000 particles per m.Cleanrooms in both categories of FS209E and ISO 14644-1 both have log-log relationships that take place concernint particle size and particle concentration. Therefore, a "zero" count in particle concentration is not existent. Because 1 m equals about 35 ft, both standards are mostly equal when measuring 0.5 m particles, although the testing standards differ. Ordinary room air is approximately class 1,000,000 or I SO 9 (Federal Standards, 2009).

Business Plan for Camera Phone Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Business Plan for Camera Phone - Essay Example The detailed plan covers the techniques of marketing and promotional plan which can help the company to achieve its target market. Our product is exclusive and unique in its own way. Our cell phone is slider phone and its offer a 6.3 mega pixel camera. The camera automatically focuses and record videos as well. Following are the exclusive features of our cell phone: Our exclusive camera phone gives clients many opportunities to have some funny and amazing things as they have camera with themselves all the times. Our camera phone is designed to replace your digital camera because of its exclusive technology of 6.3 mega pixels. Another interesting feature is its applications. Now the customer can browse internet easily through our cam phone through GRPS which is very easy. It also includes calendar items, contacts, synchronizing notes etc which are very effective. The biggest benefit you gain while having our company cam phone is that you can email pictures from our cam phone. This is the convenient way to send copies of pictures from our cam phone. The clientele has not to bear any additional cost for hardware or software. However, the client might be charged for such message at very nominal rate. From the research and studies we come to know that's there is huge potential of our company to excel in the market. The sales of installed base of camera phone increases rapidly. And it's around one billion by the end of 2008. The emerging market of first digital camera, results in continuous increase in sales. We are also of the opinion that the launch of our camera phone will be huge success as camera phone sales rising in the

Price vs Attributes Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Price vs Attributes - Annotated Bibliography Example Moreover, this article highlighted that the business professionals work to develop such strategic approaches and techniques, which are based on the notions of MNCs and that assist policy makers while making decisions concerning FDI and role of multinational organizations aiming to gain competitive advantage for the country. Concepts of MNCs help policy makers to develop attractive approaches for gaining FDIs. Researchers have noticed that positioning mapping techniques help identify and understand the viewpoints and concepts of the map managers belonging to different Southern European Countries including France, Spain, Italy, and Greece. This article insights the predicted ideal mix of these countries and the vital factors that contribute while MNCs examines a country’s position. The authors have also discussed those actions and strategies that should be adopted by a country to maintain its position for favourable FDI flow in the state resulting in a rapid growth of multinational companies. In this article, the author has shed light on the concepts and practices of marketing intelligence and planning. This article analyzes the factors, which should be consider foremost while making plans of pricing of global brands. In the light of author’s opinion, emerging technologies and scientific advancements in the field of business and marketing have created deep impact on structure and functioning of international market. Thus, before setting prices for the international products or services it is highly important to identify competitive forces in the market and other barriers of the international business environment. Surveys, samples, and examples from the industry help professionals to identify the market challenges and fundamental changes required to make during strategy management and implementation. This article argues that in some states

Article summary on 'Supply chain management', Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Summary on 'Supply chain management', - Article Example Why Chosen: â€Å"Supply Chain Matters First Impression Regarding RedPrarie / JDA Software Merger† article identifies and gives a projection of what is to come of supply and chain management. With the good use of technology, no boundaries will bare supply chain and managements from achieving their strategies. What You Learned: Technology has created impacts in each and every sectors of the world’s business, with the supply and management being positive in advancing its applications through consolidation of initially independent companies into one pool based on cloud software and end-to-end outsourced services. Your Assessment of the Article’s Content: Efforts set in place to ensure effective merging of JDA and Red Prairie requires firm stands, bold vision, strong leadership morals, and end user participation in order to succeed. Synopsis: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is entitle to establish larger public reporting programs that will help to enhance hospital performance profiling at higher national ranks. CMC started by availing results in July 2007. Since then, it has shown remarkable progress in attaining its mandates as stipulated in Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) contained in its several requirements. In CMC management’s view, public reporting had very crucial roles to play that they could never be ignored. Why Chosen: This Article on health related issues of CMC is an educative material that eliminates ignorance and adds value by providing necessary information that one should have in readiness for any tragedy. What You Learned: Public reporting plays important roles such as promoting informed patients’ choices, affecting the public image/ reputation of a hospital if its functions are not up to the standards expected, and providing objective feedback that encourages professional desire to improve. Your Assessment: All that

Price vs Attributes Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Price vs Attributes - Annotated Bibliography Example Moreover, this article highlighted that the business professionals work to develop such strategic approaches and techniques, which are based on the notions of MNCs and that assist policy makers while making decisions concerning FDI and role of multinational organizations aiming to gain competitive advantage for the country. Concepts of MNCs help policy makers to develop attractive approaches for gaining FDIs. Researchers have noticed that positioning mapping techniques help identify and understand the viewpoints and concepts of the map managers belonging to different Southern European Countries including France, Spain, Italy, and Greece. This article insights the predicted ideal mix of these countries and the vital factors that contribute while MNCs examines a country’s position. The authors have also discussed those actions and strategies that should be adopted by a country to maintain its position for favourable FDI flow in the state resulting in a rapid growth of multinational companies. In this article, the author has shed light on the concepts and practices of marketing intelligence and planning. This article analyzes the factors, which should be consider foremost while making plans of pricing of global brands. In the light of author’s opinion, emerging technologies and scientific advancements in the field of business and marketing have created deep impact on structure and functioning of international market. Thus, before setting prices for the international products or services it is highly important to identify competitive forces in the market and other barriers of the international business environment. Surveys, samples, and examples from the industry help professionals to identify the market challenges and fundamental changes required to make during strategy management and implementation. This article argues that in some states

Fast Food and Free

Fast Food and Free Time Essay MIt is common for university students to have a semester break in between each semester in a year. It usually lasts for about 3 to 4 months. Consequently, students will feel bored during the semester break because they have nothing to do. In my opinion, university students nowadays do spend their free time wisely because they will find some job to fulfil their semester break before starting their studies, doing a short semester and making small business to earn money for their expenses. Firstly, university students nowadays do spend their free time wisely because during semester break, they will find a job to fulfil their semester break before resuming their studies. Usually, their popular choice would be part time job in fast food outlets such as KFC, McDonald’s and Pizza Hut. By working, they learn the hardships of earning money and at the same time they are doing something beneficial. Besides, they can also use their salary to pay the fees for their next semester and thus they can reduce their parents’ burden. Secondly, university students nowadays do spend their free time wisely because some of students doing short semester for spend their free time in semester break especially for those repeaters, they can finish the repeat subject earlier and have no burden to take the subject again for the next semester. Beside that, repeater students will not taking a long time to finishing their studies and grading earlier. Lastly, university students nowadays do spend their free time wisely because most of them do a small business when semester break. For example they open a stall burger. They can help their family finance and also can pay for their expenses. Moreover they also can get more experience on how to make a business. At the same time, they also can spend some money for their personal saving. So, university students nowadays do spend their free time wisely.

The performance of Tanzania in international trade

The performance of Tanzania in international trade There are six main theories that govern international trade namely; classical trade theory, factor proportion theory, product life cycle theory, foreign direct investment theories, international production theory and internationalization theory. 1.1 Classical trade theory Countries gain if each devotes resources to the production of goods and services Ricardo (1817) in which it has an advantage Smith (1776). 1.2 Factor proportion theory Countries will tend to specialize in the production of goods and services that Hecksher and Ohlin (1933) utilize their most abundant resources 1.3 Product life cycle theory The cycle follows that: a countrys export strength builds; foreign production Vernon (1971) starts; foreign production becomes competitive in export markets; and Wells (1968, 1969) import competition emerges in the countrys home market 1.4 Foreign direct investment theories Market imperfections theory firms decision to invest overseas is explained as a strategy to capitalize on Hymer (1970) certain capabilities not shared by competitors in foreign countries 1.5 International production theory The propensity of a firm to initiate foreign production will depend on the specific Dunning (1980) attractions of its home country compared with resource implications and Fayerweather (1982) advantages of locating in another country 1.6 Internalization theory Internalization concerns extending the direct operations of the firm and bringing Buckley (1982, 1988) under common ownership and control the activities conducted by intermediate Buckley and Casson markets that link the firm to customers. 2.0 THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE The importance of international trade to a nations economic welfare and development has been heavily documented in the economics literature since Adam Smiths (1776) inquiry into nature and causes of the wealth of nations. This suggests that economies need to export goods and services in order to generate revenue to finance imported goods and services which cannot be produced indigenously (Coutts and Godley, 1992). The main indicators of a nations economic strength can be gauged from its gross domestic product (GDP), as this measure is an estimate of the value of goods and services produced by an economy in a given period (Tayeb, 1992). The notion that international trade can influence GDP has been explored by several economic theorists (Marin, 1992; Meier, 1984) and culminated in the export-led growth thesis. As export sales increase, other things being equal, the GDP of a nation will rise and provide a stimulus to improved economic well-being and societal prosperity. The way in which this relationship can be interpreted suggests that export performance has a stimulating effect throughout a countrys economy in the form of technological spillovers and other related favourable externalities (Marin, 1992). Export activities may exert these influences because exposure to international markets demands improved efficiency, and supports product and process innovation activities, while increases in specialization encourage profitable exploitation of economies of scale (Temple, 1994). Thus, the export-led growth thesis predicts export growth will cause economy-wide productivity gains in the form of enhanced levels of GDP. Another mechanism through which exports are connected with sustainable rates of economic growth is the balance of payments. The balance of payments constraint can be expressed as follows. In general, economic growth creates a variety of demands which cannot be satisfied solely by domestic output. The faster the rate of domestic demand, the more accelerated the growth of imports (Abdel- Malek, 1969). However, any excess of imports from one country to another, over and above exports requires the trade deficit to be financed by either government borrowing from overseas or drawing on the economys stock of assets. If this situation is sustained, it becomes vital for the home government to address the issue of such a trade imbalance (de Jonquieres, 1994; Hornby, 1994). Classical trade theory dictates that the extent to which a country exports and imports has a direct relationship to the trading pattern of the country with other nations. That is, countries are able to gain if they devote a certain amount of their resources to the generation of goods and services in which they have an economic advantage (Ricardo, 1817). Therefore, classical trade theory argues that a country generates goods and services in which it has an advantage, for consumption indigenously, and subsequently exports the surplus. It is for countries to import goods and services in which they have an economic disadvantage. Economic advantages/ disadvantages may arise from country differences in factors such as resource endowments, labour, capital, technology or entrepreneurship. Classical trade theory contends that the basis for international trade can be sourced to differences in production characteristics and resource endowments which are founded on domestic differences in natural and acquired economic advantages. However, over and above such a general insight into international trade, classical trade theory is unable to offer any explanation as to what causes differences in relative advantages. The factor proportion theory, in contrast to classical trade theory, is able to provide an explanation for the differences in advantage exhibited by trading countries. According to this theory, countries will tend to generate and export goods and services that harness large amounts of abundant production factors that they possess, and import goods that require large amounts of production factors which are scarce (Heckscher and Ohlin, 1933). Both of these theories stated above have been shown to be deficient in explaining more recent patterns of international trade. For example, the 1960s witnessed significant technological progress and the rise of the multinational enterprise, which resulted in a call for new theories of international trade to reflect changing commercial realities (Leontief, 1966). At that time, the product life cycle theory of international trade was found to be a useful framework for explaining and predicting international trade patterns as well as multinational enterprise expansion. This theory suggested that a trade cycle emerges where a product is produced by a parent firm, then by its foreign subsidiaries and finally anywhere in the world where costs are at their lowest possible (Vernon, 1966). Furthermore, it explains how a product may emerge as a countrys export and work through the life cycle to ultimately become an import. The essence of the international product life cycle is that technological innovation and market expansion are critical issues in explaining patterns of international trade. That is, technology is a key factor in creating and developing new products. Market size and structure are influential in determining the extent and type of international trade. While these theories are insightful, a number of modern international trade theories have emerged recently which take account of other important considerations such as government involvement and regulation. However, these theories make assumptions which detract from their potential significance and contribution to international business. For instance, they assume that: factors of production are immobile between countries; perfect information for international trade opportunities exists; and, traditional importing and exporting are the only mechanisms for transferring goods and services across national boundaries (Bradley, 1991). The market imperfections theory states that firms constantly seek market opportunities and their decision to invest overseas is explained as a strategy to capitalize on certain capabilities not shared by competitors in foreign countries (Hymer, 1970). The capabilities or advantages of firms are explained by market imperfections for products and factors of production. That is, the theory of perfect competition dictates that firms produce homogeneous products and enjoy the same level of access to factors of production. However, the reality of imperfect competition, which is reflected in industrial organization theory (Porter, 1985), determines that firms gain different types of competitive advantages and each to varying degrees. Nonetheless, market imperfections theory does not explain why foreign production is considered the most desirable means of harnessing the firms advantage. Dunning (1980) and Fayerweather (1982) have addressed this issue and developed what can be described as international production theory. International production theory suggests that the propensity of a firm to initiate foreign production depend on the specific attractions of its home country compared with resource implications and advantages of locating in another country. This theory makes it explicit that not only do resource differentials and the advantages of the firm play a part in determining overseas investment activities, but foreign government actions may significantly influence the piecemeal attractiveness and entry conditions for firms. This was extensively investigated by Buckley (1982, 1988) and Buckley and Casson (1976, 1985). Internalization theory centers on the notion that firms aspire to develop their own internal markets whenever transactions can be made at lower cost within the firm. Thus, internalization involves a form of vertical integration bringing new operations and activities, formerly carried out by intermediate markets, under the ownership and governance of the firm. 3.0 PERFORMANCE OF TANZANIA IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE AFTER JOINING REGIONAL TRADE PROTOCOLS. 3.1 Factors hindering performance of Tanzania in International trade Tanzania has not benefited as much as would be possible from the generous concessions offered by regional trade protocols. There are several factors that can be attributed to Tanzanias poor performance in international trade one of them being domestic supply constraints. Another factor is poor capacity to negotiate in international trade meetings due to lack of awareness. The issue of awareness is significant because successful participation in international trade matters requires knowledge of global developments in trade issues. Awareness helps to improve effectiveness of trade policy for Tanzania. Also, high level of awareness provides a benchmark based on which the effectiveness of agreements and negotiations can be measured. It has been revealed that many officials who represent Tanzania in international trade negotiations are not aware of some important regional trade protocol issues and thus fail to take advantage of preferences and opportunities that can increase the performance of Tanzania in international trade. Lack of awareness on regional trade protocols leads to poor performance of Tanzania in international trade. The table below shows the extent of awareness on regional trade protocols. Level of awareness among stakeholders on regional trade protocols Type of regional trade protocol Percentage of awareness SADC 18.3% AGOA 14.3% WTO 2.0% COMESA 9.9% EAC 2.0% EU-ACP 7.9% Source: Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF, 2008). The data above shows that the level of awareness on regional trade protocols among stakeholders is highest at 18.3% for SADC and lowest for WTO and EAC at 2.0%. These findings show that the level of awareness on regional trade protocols among stakeholders in Tanzania is very low and this hinders the performance of Tanzania in international trade and FDI. In most cases, the preparations for negotiations are poorly made, including poor consultation and coordination. Negotiators go in the negotiation table with a pre-determined position, a tendency that limits their flexibility to maximize gains from such negotiations. Another problem relates to insufficient analytical work before attending the negotiations. Another reason for poor performance of Tanzania in international trade negotiations is that the coordination of international trade is not centralized. For instance, negotiations and agreements for EAC are handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation while those of SADC are handled by under the Ministry of Industry and Trade that is also responsible for all multilateral trade issues. Another reason for poor performance of Tanzania in international trade is that the private sector in Tanzania has limited participation in international trade negotiations. Also, the private sector in Tanzania is not involved in formulation of international trade policies , hence limiting their experience and level of awareness on international trade issues compared to other countries which involve their private sectors. For instance, Tanzania Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture (TCCIA), Chamber of Industry and Trade (CTI) and Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF) are not involved in international trade negotiations, thus limiting the performance of Tanzania in international trade. Due to poor preparation with regard to international trade, Tanzania fails to benefit from international trade agreements. The poor participation of the private sector in Tanzania in regional trade protocols is mainly caused by lack of financial and human resources. To deal with the issue of lack of financial resources among the private sector, the government sometimes includes delegates from the private sector in trade missions especially when the delegations involve high-level government officials. Recently, the government has started to involve the private sector in regional trade negotiations. For instance, the private sector was involved in the EAC negotiations from the very beginning. Also, although CTI was partially involved in the EAC policy formulation, their participation was limited due to lack of awareness and willingness on part of the government. 3.2 Performance of Tanzania in FDI after joining regional trade protocols Among the objectives of Tanzania in joining regional trade protocols is facilitating Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Along with expansion of market opportunities, regional trade protocols encourage FDI because investors are attracted to larger market and may thus anticipate enjoying larger economy of scale. Investors take advantage of wider market and expect their investments to expand. The East African Community for example has put in place a shared investment policy among member states with harmonized investment incentives for investors. The performance of Tanzania with regard to FDI has been much effective especially during the 1990S when the country underwent privatization after Structural Adjustment Programs. The table below shows the performance of FDI after regional trade protocols; FDI inflows to Tanzania from various regional trade protocols in US$ Millions 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 EAC 54.1 22.9 6.9 12.5 94.4 3.3 SADC 122.1 70.5 139.3 181 513 17.6 AGOA 325 151.4 31.6 52.1 560 19.3 EU-ACP 677 86.7 95.8 183 106 36.7 Source: Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC, 2008) The findings above show that Tanzania has attracted FDI mostly through EU-ACP countries followed by FDI from AGOA and SADC. Thus, it can be generalized that EE-ACP and AGOA have been the main source of FDI to Tanzania compared to other regional trade protocols that Tanzania has joined namely; EAC and SADC. This can be explained due to the fact that the African countries have low capital formation. 3.3 Performance of Tanzania under AGOA Regime The performance of Tanzania in AGOA is poor compared to the performance of other countries. For instance, during the first year of AGOA, Tanzania exported goods worth $ 899,000, mostly agricultural and forestry, handicrafts, horticulture and fish products. On the other hand, Kenya exported goods worth $57.1 million mostly textiles and apparel. The main reason for this poor performance is because Tanzania delayed to register for AGOA. On the issue of investments from USA which is also part of the AGOA trade protocol, Tanzania has failed to register meaningful investments from the United States due to several factors such as; corruption, poor infrastructures, high electricity cost and bureaucracy. Another reason is complicated laws regarding land ownership surrounding investment projects. The table below shows the performance of Tanzania under AGOA compared to other countries that participate in AGOA namely; Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and Lesotho. The data shows that, besides Uganda, Tanzania has had the worst performance in AGOA. This shows that regional trade protocols have had little impact on participation of Tanzania in international trade. Trade under AGOA for selected countries 000 US$ (2000-2008) Country Total exports to US AGOA export Tanzania 16594 716 Uganda 7282 22 Kenya 120,421 74963 Nigeria 3636192 3366165 South Africa 2646359 831805 Lesotho 208756 206349 Total 8927183 5723216 Source: BOT (2008). 3.4 Market Access and Technical Assistance Tanzanias participation in the WTO issues is through the Least Developed Countries (LDC) group. The countries forming the LDCs group are eligible to receive the special treatment under the WTO rules so as to enhance market access. However, Tanzanias participation in WTO has had little impact on the volume of their trade due to low export volume. On the other hand, Tanzania has benefited from technical assistance through various initiatives such as; Joint Integrated Technical Assistance Program (JITAP), which involves UNCTAD, WTO and ITC. The objectives of such assistance were to improve the performance and capacity stakeholders to understand regional trade protocols. Special and differential treatment has been useful for poor countries such as Tanzania. 3.5 Performance of Tanzania in international trade after joining regional trade protocols. The tables below show the performance of Tanzania in international trade after four regional trade protocols namely EU-ACP, SADC, EAC and AGOA. The findings are shown in terms of exports made by Tanzania to other countries and imports made by Tanzania as shown below; Tanzania exports to different countries in US$ Millions 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 EU-ACP 226 241 214 362 432 474 SADC 22.3 15.1 13.8 18.4 21 51.3 EAC 22.4 32.8 28.7 40.7 43.6 40.8 USA 21.4 12.8 18 15.2 15.1 13.5 Source: Bank of Tanzania (BOT, 2008). The findings above show that exports from Tanzania to other countries have been mainly to EU-ACP countries followed by exports to EAC countries, SADC countries and to a little extent to the United States of America. This shows that regional trade protocols have had little impact on international trade in Tanzania because exports to EU countries have been there even before Tanzania joined regional trade protocols. Tanzania imports from different countries in US$ Millions 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 EU-ACP 367.1 514 413 344 389 391 SADC 139 179 196 194 221 211 EAC 87.8 108 101 98.9 107 97.8 USA 52.6 81.3 99.2 58.9 65 91 Source: Bank of Tanzania (BOT, 2008). The findings shown in the table above show that imports from Tanzania to other countries have been mostly to EU-ACP countries; followed by those from SADC countries, EAC countries and the United States. These findings again show that regional trade protocols have had little impact on international trade because imports from EU countries were there even before Tanzania joined regional trade protocols. 4.0 THE STATUS OF TANZANIAS IMPLEMENTATION OF REGIONAL TRADE PROTOCOLS Below is a description of the status for Tanzania in the following key issues regarding regional trade protocols. 4.1 Conformity to the WTO rules: Tanzania needs good and timely information about WTO decisions (and their interpretation) and a capacity to influence the new agenda of the WTO at an early stage. The WTO is member-driven and reacts only to member initiatives. 4.2 Import liberalization issues: This is a requirement that the country should comply with the WTO agreement on removal of trade barriers by cutting down tariffs and other non-tariff barriers. Tanzania has already complied with most of the Uruguay Round (UR) requirement on its imports licensing and tariff regimes. The remaining challenge is to transform such reforms into institutions by drafting legislation to support them. 4.3 Agriculture trade: Tanzania is in compliance with the negotiations and agreements on agriculture (subsidies and market access). However, the country needs to closely monitor the forthcoming negotiations on agriculture as the requirements could be tightened. 4.4 Treatment of Non-Tariff Barriers: Since Non Tariff Barriers (NTB) are varied by country own economic measures to control trade, an important issue is whether the NTBs contradict WTO rules. Another one is the extent through which NTB are source of trade disputes between countries. 4.5 Subsidies: As with NTBs, United Republic of Tanzania needs to re-examine all Government measures to see if they are in conflict with the new provisions on subsidies. 4.6 Anti-dumping rules, countervailing actions and safeguards: For formal compliance with the WTO, United Republic of Tanzania must see that the national and regional (EAC and SADC) rules and procedures on anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguards are reformed to fit the WTO rules, and this appears to be underway. 4.7 Customs valuation and other custom rules: United Republic of Tanzania is fast thriving to complete its customs valuation reforms that should make it conformable to the WTO rule on customs valuation. According to the interview with the officials in the MIT, it is hoped that this exercise will be complete by July 2004. This also includes measures to remove the Pre-shipment inspection procedure to enhance efficiency in custom administration. 4.8 Trade Related Investment Measures (TRIMS): Under GATT 1947, investment law had not been central to its rules, and countries have been able to ignore the rules. Tanzania needs at least to be aware of the rules and its vulnerabilities if it does not adapt to them, given the wide variety of types of investment regime that are used by different countries. 4.9 Standards: International standards are becoming more common, and for countries, which have not yet set their own, adopting these at an early stage may be a particularly efficient step. An alternative for United Republic of Tanzania in a region like the EAC or SADC is to shift to regional standards. However; while this may be cost saving, it still leaves the future costs of adapting such standards when an international standard is eventually set. Notifications of regional standards have been made for the EAC. These need to be made by Tanzania because EAC is not yet a recognized region in the WTO. 4.10 Services: As there were effectively no minimum requirements for services offers in the Uruguay Round, Tanzania formally complied. But there will be much more pressure in the next round to make substantive offers. The WTO has made provision for technical assistance to be availed to the LDCs regarding services liberalization, but for Tanzania has not yet been a clear indication of the type of assistance to be requested. Yet, in future requirements for more offers for service trade liberalization, Tanzania, among other countries, may not have a benchmark upon which to make offers. Even where the WTO may offer one, it may not necessarily be suitable for Tanzania as least developed country. 4.11 Trade Related Intellectual Property (TRIPS): Tanzania must comply with the TRIPS rules within the 2003-2010 period. Tanzania has legal systems that are likely to be adaptable to the standard forms and so the costs of adoption to the TRIPS will not be substantial. 4.12 Government Procurement: There is no obligation to join agreement on Government Procurement, and a few developing countries have. Whether Tanzania should join depends on whether it wants to export to government purchasers who have joined the agreement, and whether it wants to give preference to any local suppliers who would be in competition with potential foreign suppliers. If a substantial proportion of a countrys government expenditure is financed by aid, there may be other constraints on its purchasing. 4.13 Labour and the Environment: There is no need for immediate action on labour or environmental issues to meet international standards (except for the existing environmental protocols and obligations under ILO Conventions). But there will be opportunities for Tanzania to use environmental arguments in trade negotiations, especially when such arguments are useful for some products. 5.0 MEASURES TAKEN TO IMPROVE INTERNATIONAL TRADE Several measures have been taken to improve the performance of Tanzania in international trade with regard to regional trade protocols. Such measures include seeking assistance from donors to facilitate international trade. Donors support regional integration programs and activities under COMESA and SADC and this has benefited members States including Tanzania. Among such donors include; United States Agency for International Development (USAID), GTZ, UNCTAD, UNDP and UNIDO. Also, the European Union is funding a number of projects aimed at improving international trade. Within EAC, projects aimed at improving international trade include; cooperation with UNCTAD, of ASYCUDA (automated system for customs data) and Euro trace. The European Union also supports international trade by offering EAC latest computer hardware, setting up internet networks and offering expert advice in preparing the region for Common External Tariff. EU also provides EAC staff with training regarding WTO matters for member. Support has also been offered to assist in developing the finance and Investment Protocol of EAC. On the other hand, USAID has also assisted SADC in the ratification and implementation process for the SADC trade Protocol. UNCTAD has provided technical assistance for the Trade Negotiation Forum process devoted to the preparation of the SADC trade liberalization program leading to the formation of the desired free trade area. Assistance has also been given to SADC by the Commonwealth Secretariat in such areas as development of a regional industrial policy. 6.0 CONCLUSION This study has analysed characteristics and status of Tanzanias participation in regional trade protocols and its impact on international trade. It also explains the rationale for Tanzania to join regional trade protocols, level of participation and performance in international trade. The study also highlighted issues affecting the performance of Tanzania in international trade. The study found that although Tanzania participates in many regional trade protocols, they have had little impact on Tanzanias participation in international trade. For example, majority of regional trade protocols in which Tanzania is involved had little participation of key actors because of poor participation of the private sector. Another factor is lack of proper trade policy. Other factors that affect the impact of regional trade protocols on the performance of Tanzania in international trade include; poor administration of trade negotiations and agreements, lack of a centralized mechanism to monitor, follow-up nor appraise the performance of Tanzania in regional trade protocols, and multiple handling of international trade issues by different departments/ministries which make it difficult. Another factor that hinder effective participation of Tanzania in regional trade protocols and hence, poor performance in international trade is lack of capacity and awareness of negotiation skills among representatives of Tanzania is regional trade protocols. Due to poor negotiation skills, Tanzania has failed to take advantage of opportunities that arise from international trade. Despite the fact that Tanzania is interested in regional trade protocols, pursuances of such interests are not linked to the objective of widening market access. Often, negotiators adopt a pre-emptive approach to negotiation making the whole strategy less flexible. In addition, the interests of Tanzania are actively negotiated but not actively realized on the ground during negotiations. From the findings above, this study concludes that participation and performance of Tanzania is regional trade protocols has been poor due to various hindrances especially due to poor export capacity and lack of market access due to quality issues Hence, most of the regional trade protocols in which Tanzania has participated have had little or little impact on international trade. 7.0 RECOMMENDATIONS From the findings of the study, the following are recommendations made;  ·Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Tanzanian government should centralize issues related to regional trade protocols so as to enhance the positive impact of the trade protocols on international trade.  ·Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The government should promote public debate and discussion in the area of international trade protocols.  ·Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The government should intervene by offering training on negotiation skills so as to improve the performance of Tanzania in international trade.  ·Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  The government in collaboration with stakeholders should take measures to increase production so as to increase the volume of exports and hence, more participation in international trade.  ·Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Regional trade protocols have high impact on attracting FDI, thus, the government should follow up on regional trade protocols for investment opportunities.

Believing in Una of Naslunds Ahabs Wife :: Naslunds Ahabs Wife Essays

Believing in Una of Naslund's Ahab's Wife Naslund's novel, "Ahab's Wife" was immensely more satisfying and realistic than Melville's "Moby Dick." I hope to explain why Naslund did not merely present a "feminine" version of Moby Dick, but presented similarly universal themes within more realistic and meaningful contexts. By becoming intimate with the reader, she expects more: she expects us to understand the world from a different perspective. Melville tries to be funny by making things ridiculous. Naslund makes reality funny. From what I gathered of other's opinions of Moby Dick, the hilarity came from the absurdity. In my mind, however, when something seems impossible the story seems to change to the realm of cartoon or science fiction. It seems not only not funny, but weird and irrelevant. I was glad, after feeling like I must not have any sense of humor, to laugh out loud to Ahab's Wife. "'And some people believe' Kit put in, 'that if you eat cucumbers, your nose will grow long. Or other parts.' 'What parts?' Frannie asked. 'Your feet,' Aunt said"(p93). Although just as silly, this is funny because it speaks to an awkward situation similar to one everyone has been in, probably on all sides. It is not the absurdity of the myth of the cucumber that I laugh at, but rather the Aunt's reaction to his reference. Naslund speaks to me, however, not because of realistic humor, but because of her contextual insight. Melville makes profound but irrelevant commentary on the world, while Naslund shows us her journey to different understandings of the world. Melville, to use one of many examples of his philosophical meanderings, tells us that, "there is no quality in this world that is not what it is merely by contrast." This statement could be very insightful, except that he is talking not about understandings of the world or identity formation, but rather feeling physical warmth: "We felt very nice and snug, the more so since it was so chilly out of doors; indeed out of bedclothes too, seeing that there was no fire in the room. The more so, I say, because truly to enjoy bodily warmth, some small part of you must be cold, for there is no quality in this world that is not what it is merely by contrast." 52 This leaves me impressed that he was able to connect his wise perceptions of the world to an only slightly relevant story, and makes me want to steal the quote and apply it out of its context.

Factors of Creation of Nationalism Essay -- Political Science

â€Å"It is nationalism which engenders nations, and not the other way round.† Such words were written by prominent social anthropologist Ernest Gellner in his work Nations and Nationalism (1983). Nationalism can be defined as a person or group’s loyalty and support for their nation, whatever that nation may be. This brings to light a very troublesome and tortuous subject. Expressed simply as Nationalism, this being is very controversial, many hailing it as a propitious concept, while others putting it down and viewing it in animosity. But what is more controversial & more complex would be the establishment of such. What effects its creation? What factors develop it? And what factors affect it the most? As with the topic of beauty, War, or Religion, nationalism and its roots are a again, a being of much controversy. Constantly being argued upon, assumptions of nationalism’s creation ranges from it being solely created upon historic, religious, social, geographical, and economical factors, or any combination(s) of the factors stated. An example of an argument which supports History as being the primary (and possibly the only) source of nationalism is prevalent within Margret Macmillan’s work The Uses and Abuses of History (2009) where she states that â€Å"History provides much of the fuel for Nationalism† and that the â€Å"celebration of the nation’s great achievements—and the shared sorrow at its defeats—sustain and foster it.† What she fails to mention is that there is more to development of nationalism than just history. Through my eyes it is evident that Professor Macmillan hasn’t fully grasped the depth, or simply has ig nored the other factors of nationalism. In respect to a nation and its nationalism, history has a major impact on its... ...D=567>. "French Revolution (1787-99) -- Britannica Online Encyclopedia." Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2012. . "Lecture 11: The Origins of the French Revolution." The History Guide -- Main. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Mar. 2012. . MacMillan, Margaret. The uses and abuses of history. Toronto: Penguin Canada, 2009. Print. Sebesta, Edward , and Euan Hague. "The US Civil War as a Theological War: Confederate Christian Nationalism and the League of the South." 22 (2002): 253-271. Print. "The Reformation." History Learning Site. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2012. . Gellner, Ernest . Nations and Nationalism. 1983. Reprint. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing, 2006. Print.

Nickel and Dimed

As the main objective of this experiment was to determine that it is practically impossible for a low skilled and low-wage female worker and a single mother to earn enough money in order to get proper lodging, fulfill necessary needs and support her children, the outcome of her experiment in her own perspective was quite positive and satisfactory. Ehrenreich spend one month in three different cities of the United States to determine the workplace conditions, wages, behavior of the employers regarding the low-wage and low skilled employees and she was successful in finding out with a nearly real life experience that’s why she was satisfied with her experience and find herself as an above average low skilled worker. The experiment undertaken by Ehrenreich was extremely successful in her own perspective because she eventually found out what she intended to. As she has discussed in her last chapter â€Å"The Evaluation† that all the three case studies explicitly reveal that it is extremely difficult for a low-wage worker to find proper lodgings with the current level of wages in the country. She also found out that a single job is never enough for a low skilled worker to earn enough money in order to meet his/her end meets. Moreover the employers behavior is also highly disparaging. The employers use wicked techniques to keep the wages as low as possible and keep the employees in constant pressure so that they never get organized against their unfair treatment. (Ehrenreich) All these things make the life of a low-wage worker extremely difficult and demanding. According to her evaluation in all the three cities the rate of housing surpassed the wages of the low-income employees making it virtually impossible to get proper lodgings. (Ehrenreich) So by keeping in mind that her objective was to finding out that it is impossible for a low-income wageworker to get proper lodgings and meet end meets, her experiment was extremely successful in her own perspective also. She can certainly said that she has met the objectives of her experiment as she has found out that lowest 20% of the workforce of the U.S. economy is in extremely difficult condition and their problems are so severe, so complex that it is also extremely difficult for them to overcome these problems or find better jobs even if they exist in their surroundings. (Ehrenreich) Her main objective was to determine the difference between the lives of the high paid and low-wage workers, and that most of the needs of the high paid labor is met by the low paid and unskilled labor. In my own perspective the experiment carried out by Ehrenreich was highly successful. She presented us the true picture of the low-income Americans’ lives and helps us realize the severity of the problems the low-income labor force faces during their jobs and in their workplace. She gives the living proof of the reality that it is virtually impossible for a low-wage worker to survive in these conditions and find a shelter for himself, especially if the worker is a single mother and she has to provide food and support to her siblings also. Thus the outcome of this experiment clearly indicates of its success. She proved that the employers’ exploit is so extreme in nature that even the shortage of the labor does not compel them to raise the wage, i.e. universal economic rules do not apply for these low-income labor. (Ehrenreich) As a learned member of society I can use the knowledge of this book by making people realize that the so-called claim of a prosper and welfare America is just a bluff and a slogan which only depicts the external shine and wealth of the corporate America. While in the deep there are certain levels of the American economy and workforce, which suffers as much as any other workforce in a third world and developing country. We can use this book and the outcome of this research in order to find the solution, which will help us to eradicate the deprivation of the low-income workforce at the bottom of the U.S. economy. We can use this book to increase the awareness of the people about the sufferings of the low-income workers. We can use this knowledge to disclose the persecution of the corporate sector of their low-income employees and to persuade the employers to behave more humane with their low-income employees and make the workplace a better place for them and raise their wages to a level which would practically make it possible for them to meet their end needs, but also to go ahead. The overall output of the experiment of Ehrenreich and the tone of the language of last chapter evaluation clearly indicates that the experiment was a complete success in the view of the author and she thinks that she has finally determined what she has sought through out her 3-month expedition. She finally came with the living proof of what she initially claimed that it is virtually impossible for a low-skilled and low-income wageworker to earn enough money, by which they can get proper housing and meet their end meets and support their dependants like siblings or get medical treatment even when their lives and health is at stake. The book is a complete success in a reader’s perspective become it creates awareness of this unfair practice of the employers of the corporate America, who continue to insist on exploiting the low-wage workers and deprive them not only of their end needs but also from any prospect of getting ahead. Thus this book and the research in it is an important and helpful knowledge regarding the unfair class structure in the American Society. Works Cited Ehrenreich, Barbara. â€Å"Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America.† Holt Paperbacks. May 1, 2002.                                                                      Nickel and Dimed Nickel and Dimed, written by Barbara Ehrenreich has been published in 2001 for the first time. This book explains and describes the condition of the working poor in United States in the 21st century. To write this book the author who is a well-known journalist at the New York Times decides to experience being a low-wage worker for a few months. She gives up her middle class life to become and live as a working poor. The author establishes a few rules at the beginning of her challenge such as not to go hungry or always having a car. But, except for those few exceptions she decides to go through the same life as her new coworkers. She starts her experience in Florida then she goes to Maine and finally to Minnesota. Therefore, Nickel and Dimed describes the experiment and the troubles Ehrenreich had to go through while she was a working poor. She particularly accentuates on how humiliated and how ashamed people are of being poor. Shame and humiliation are essential themes of this book are explained and described through different ways such as the fact that poor people are invisible or not respected in their jobs or not able to talk freely, or mistreated by their manager even if they are sick. First of all, the author explains that the poor are invisible and how they feel about it. â€Å"Maids as an occupational group, are not visible, and when we are seen we are often sorry for it† (99). The feeling of invisibility is normally one of the worst feelings that a human being should feel. But according to Ehrenreich, the maids feel relieved when they are not seen. Other people are looking at them as stupid people. They do not fit in the society. In fact, nowadays a person who does not use their brain in their work is not respected by others or by the upper classes. Holly, Ehrenreich’s coworker and friend, describes in chapter two the mean and negative remarks people did to her when they know that she is a maid. She said, â€Å" We’re nothing to these people† (100). Therefore, the poor are invisible in this society where the intellectual skills are valuable. They feel better when they are not noticed because they prefer to avoid the mean remarks from other. But, feeling invisible in their everyday life is a shame. They are human beings who need to be considered by others and integrated in a group to socialize as everyone else. Second of all, readers understand that low-wage workers are not respected in their job and this starts at the hiring process. While Ehrenreich tries to be hired at Wal-Mart in chapter three she explains that she has to go through psychological and drug tests. The first test is not supposed to affect the decision of the managers but in fact it does. Roberta, her coworker â€Å"takes it off to another room where, she says a computer will ‘score it’. After about ten minutes, she’s back with alarming news: I’ve gotten three answers wrong† (240). Corporations start to lie to their employees before hiring them. Low wage people as B. Ehrenreich are not hired because of their quality or personality. The relation between the employees and them is a computer. The corporation does not consider them. Working poor could be compared as animals that pass or fail a test before being bought. Those workers lose their self-esteem because of the lack of consideration they receive in their jobs. It is a perpetual humiliation to feel ignore by everyone. Third of all, Ehrenreich describes how employees are not allowed to talk to the customers. For example, when the author works at Hearthside her manager tells her, â€Å"No chatting for you, girl. No fancy service ethic allowed for the serfs. Chatting with customers is for the good-looking young college-educated servers in the downtown capriccio and ceviche joints, the kids who can make $70-$100 a night† (35). And Ehrenreich explains that she was not also allowed to talk to her coworkers while she was at Wal-Mart of certain subjects. And if she did, she could be fired. But, forbidding people to talk about certain subjects or to discuss with some of their coworkers is a violation of the fundamental rights. In the author’s experiences, readers understand that she has lost her humanity because freedom of speech is one of the fundamental rights that is expressed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that was established in 1945 by the United Nations. Speaking is an advantage of men because we are the only species who can communicate. Losing this advantage makes the person feel like she is not even human anymore. He loses all his self-esteem and feels humiliated. Finally, Ehrenreich shows how the health of people is not respected in the low wage class. While the author works at The Maids we have the perfect description of this kind of humiliation because her manager â€Å" Ted doesn’t have much sympathy for illness, though; one of our morning meeting was on the subject of ‘ working through it’ †(87). He mistreats the author’s friend and coworker, Holly who is pregnant and has to work to survive because she does not have any money. But Ted forces her to work in terrible conditions. Holly cannot take a real lunch break or a few days of vacation to rest even if she is extremely sick and tired because of her pregnancy. And if she takes her break without her manager’s approval she could be fired. She appears like a slave who is forced to do every task her manager assigns her even if Ted does not pay attention to the fact that she is sick. Therefore, Ehrenreich has to stand up and fight for her friend to have the permission to take a day off. But Ted would let a woman works even if he knows that she is about to be taken to the ER. I believe that a person who is sick cannot be forced to fight against her body. Unhealthy people should be helped and not used as slaves. Therefore, this episode underlines how humiliating it is for a sick person to be forced to work. Holly in this episode becomes an animal who has to work even if she is physically unable to. Working poor are not only having money problems they also have to go through humiliation and shame in their everyday life. Trying to modify their social status is almost impossible when we understand how they are treated. They lose their self-esteem and do not trust themselves anymore. Therefore, they will not even try to change jobs. They are stuck in their own conditions. They are not considered as humans in their job. The low-wage workers are unsocialized because of their wages and are mentally destroyed by their managers. Barbara Ehrenreich describes their situation in this book through her own experience to inform the world of their situation. In the 21st century in a country like United States, which is supposed to be the most powerful nation in the world, citizens cannot accept that others are treated like that. Low-wage workers need to be respected. Nickel and Dimed Nickel and Dimed, written by Barbara Ehrenreich has been published in 2001 for the first time. This book explains and describes the condition of the working poor in United States in the 21st century. To write this book the author who is a well-known journalist at the New York Times decides to experience being a low-wage worker for a few months. She gives up her middle class life to become and live as a working poor. The author establishes a few rules at the beginning of her challenge such as not to go hungry or always having a car. But, except for those few exceptions she decides to go through the same life as her new coworkers. She starts her experience in Florida then she goes to Maine and finally to Minnesota. Therefore, Nickel and Dimed describes the experiment and the troubles Ehrenreich had to go through while she was a working poor. She particularly accentuates on how humiliated and how ashamed people are of being poor. Shame and humiliation are essential themes of this book are explained and described through different ways such as the fact that poor people are invisible or not respected in their jobs or not able to talk freely, or mistreated by their manager even if they are sick. First of all, the author explains that the poor are invisible and how they feel about it. â€Å"Maids as an occupational group, are not visible, and when we are seen we are often sorry for it† (99). The feeling of invisibility is normally one of the worst feelings that a human being should feel. But according to Ehrenreich, the maids feel relieved when they are not seen. Other people are looking at them as stupid people. They do not fit in the society. In fact, nowadays a person who does not use their brain in their work is not respected by others or by the upper classes. Holly, Ehrenreich’s coworker and friend, describes in chapter two the mean and negative remarks people did to her when they know that she is a maid. She said, â€Å" We’re nothing to these people† (100). Therefore, the poor are invisible in this society where the intellectual skills are valuable. They feel better when they are not noticed because they prefer to avoid the mean remarks from other. But, feeling invisible in their everyday life is a shame. They are human beings who need to be considered by others and integrated in a group to socialize as everyone else. Second of all, readers understand that low-wage workers are not respected in their job and this starts at the hiring process. While Ehrenreich tries to be hired at Wal-Mart in chapter three she explains that she has to go through psychological and drug tests. The first test is not supposed to affect the decision of the managers but in fact it does. Roberta, her coworker â€Å"takes it off to another room where, she says a computer will ‘score it’. After about ten minutes, she’s back with alarming news: I’ve gotten three answers wrong† (240). Corporations start to lie to their employees before hiring them. Low wage people as B. Ehrenreich are not hired because of their quality or personality. The relation between the employees and them is a computer. The corporation does not consider them. Working poor could be compared as animals that pass or fail a test before being bought. Those workers lose their self-esteem because of the lack of consideration they receive in their jobs. It is a perpetual humiliation to feel ignore by everyone. Third of all, Ehrenreich describes how employees are not allowed to talk to the customers. For example, when the author works at Hearthside her manager tells her, â€Å"No chatting for you, girl. No fancy service ethic allowed for the serfs. Chatting with customers is for the good-looking young college-educated servers in the downtown capriccio and ceviche joints, the kids who can make $70-$100 a night† (35). And Ehrenreich explains that she was not also allowed to talk to her coworkers while she was at Wal-Mart of certain subjects. And if she did, she could be fired. But, forbidding people to talk about certain subjects or to discuss with some of their coworkers is a violation of the fundamental rights. In the author’s experiences, readers understand that she has lost her humanity because freedom of speech is one of the fundamental rights that is expressed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that was established in 1945 by the United Nations. Speaking is an advantage of men because we are the only species who can communicate. Losing this advantage makes the person feel like she is not even human anymore. He loses all his self-esteem and feels humiliated. Finally, Ehrenreich shows how the health of people is not respected in the low wage class. While the author works at The Maids we have the perfect description of this kind of humiliation because her manager â€Å" Ted doesn’t have much sympathy for illness, though; one of our morning meeting was on the subject of ‘ working through it’ †(87). He mistreats the author’s friend and coworker, Holly who is pregnant and has to work to survive because she does not have any money. But Ted forces her to work in terrible conditions. Holly cannot take a real lunch break or a few days of vacation to rest even if she is extremely sick and tired because of her pregnancy. And if she takes her break without her manager’s approval she could be fired. She appears like a slave who is forced to do every task her manager assigns her even if Ted does not pay attention to the fact that she is sick. Therefore, Ehrenreich has to stand up and fight for her friend to have the permission to take a day off. But Ted would let a woman works even if he knows that she is about to be taken to the ER. I believe that a person who is sick cannot be forced to fight against her body. Unhealthy people should be helped and not used as slaves. Therefore, this episode underlines how humiliating it is for a sick person to be forced to work. Holly in this episode becomes an animal who has to work even if she is physically unable to. Working poor are not only having money problems they also have to go through humiliation and shame in their everyday life. Trying to modify their social status is almost impossible when we understand how they are treated. They lose their self-esteem and do not trust themselves anymore. Therefore, they will not even try to change jobs. They are stuck in their own conditions. They are not considered as humans in their job. The low-wage workers are unsocialized because of their wages and are mentally destroyed by their managers. Barbara Ehrenreich describes their situation in this book through her own experience to inform the world of their situation. In the 21st century in a country like United States, which is supposed to be the most powerful nation in the world, citizens cannot accept that others are treated like that. Low-wage workers need to be respected.