Aesthetics †the issue of the possible existence Essay

Burke follows in the empirical tradition of Locke. He believes that all human knowledge comes out of impressions or sense experiences. We then take these simple bits of knowledge and combine them to form more intricate ideas. Our imagination is limited to use of the knowledge we extract from our impressions and are, therefore, incapable of creating anything completely new. He says that our imagination either portrays pleasing images again in the order we experienced them or reorders and combines these images of our experiences. Burke offers that humans receive pleasure from resemblances. Accurate imitations stimulate our minds. Burke’s goal and main concern is the issue of the possible existence of a standard or logic of taste. Burke is searching for certain principles that affect our imaginations in such a common and certain way that they could be a basis for â€Å"the means of reasoning satisfactorily about them†1. Burke states that these principles do exist. He says that even though it seems as though there is such a variety of taste, there is a standard that lies beneath the superficial range of differences. All humans perceive â€Å"external objects† in the same way. We become familiar with these external items by way of our natural powers: the senses, imagination and judgment. The most natural understandings that we receive are quite standard, what appears light to one is light to any other and what is sweet to one is again sweet to another. Burke shows that humans have a common agreement on these issues of preference by giving examples of expressions taken from taste experiences such as â€Å"A sour temper, bitter expressions†¦ sweet disposition, a sweet person†1. Burke realizes that there are many people who act in ways that would seem contradictory to these assertions, such as the preference of the taste of tobacco over that of sugar. These divergences from the natural pleasures and pains are a result of custom. They do not uphold the argument for diversity of taste, but rather call for a differentiation between Natural and Acquired taste. A man grows to prefer the taste of tobacco to that of sugar by conditioning his palate from habit. It is a synthetic preference, however, and the man still understands that tobacco is not sweet and sugar is sweet. Also if a man finds sugar to be sour we do not say that his taste is different, instead we say that his taste is not functioning correctly. Burke writes that when talking about acquired taste one must consider the surrounding factors such as the specific habits and prejudices of a particular person. These customs and intolerances do not oppose the â€Å"agreement† of mankind, but rather mask it. This conformity among humanity does not exist only in terms of the palate; it is quite the same in matters of sight. Light is more agreeable than darkness and summer and its conditions are more pleasant than winter and its conditions. Burke states that no man truly, naturally believes a goose to be more beautiful than a swan. To Burke sight is less subject to custom than the palate, however, change is applied. This applied change brings him to his next point about the palate. He says that these changes in palate, which make unpleasant flavors more pleasurable, are a result of frequent use combined with an agreeable effect. This affects humans in the way of substances such as opium, tobacco, alcohol, tea, and coffee. Burke writes â€Å"There is in all men a sufficient remembrance of the original natural causes of pleasure, to enable them to bring all things offered to their senses to that standard and to regulate their feelings and opinions by it† 1. Natural pleasures are still preferred to unaccustomed substances that induce agreeable effects. Someone who has grown to prefer opium to sugar would still prefer the taste of sugar to a drug that they do not have a habit with. There is a standard of pleasure of the senses in all humans. Burke explains imagination as our greatest source of pleasure and of pain. Since imagination is based on the senses then it too must have universal agreement among all men. The mind is much more disposed to picking up on resemblances than to finding differences in what we observe. Our imaginations are incapable of creating anything absolutely new so we must expand our â€Å"stock† through experience, and in resemblances we are able to find new images. We unite and accumulate and move forward with our feelings with likenesses rather then difference which cannot be placed.

History of Art Music Essay

The change of phase from Baroque to Classical occurred in Europe between 1600 and 1750 had significantly affected music ideologies and expressions. During the Baroque period where counterparts and highly melodic structures of polyphonic sounds are employed, the classical period, on the other hand, utilized the effects of instrumental and solo-work in certain musical instruments especially on the piano and other keyboard instruments.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The clavichords and harpsichords, which precede the pianoforte and the modern pianos today, have made a significant impact on the quality and type of music produced during and between their inventions. These inventions and their further utilization were realized during the Baroque to Classical periods. For instance, the clavichord that was usually played alone in gatherings had been largely replaced by a harpsichord, which sounds like much similar to our modern piano—these instruments were essentially key players in genres and music prototypes in those eras. ROLES OF KEYBOARDISTS During the baroque period two genres emerged: sonata de chiesa (church sonata) and sonata de camera (chamber sonata). Since sonatas are usually accompanied by any string instrument such as viol ( a predecessor of violin), or cello, other keyboard instruments such as harpsichords can be seen in certain chambers. Thus, solo players or part players, as mentioned earlier can be variably noticed in musical audiences.   The basso continuo, where the melody is commonly accompanied by varied harmonies, was perfected. This is when; harpsichordists came into play, usually to improvise such harmonies and melodies. Yet, the roles of keyboardists were secondary than primary. Cellos, viols, violins or more frequently the lute or flure were the accompanying instruments in this basso continuos. Chamber music is not the predominant work field of the keyboard. Unlike in church music where, organ, as the major instrument, played significant parts in masses, services and the church music itself; harpsichords were not usually used.   As seen in the illustration below the common melody employed was realized higher notes or other forms rather than keyboard pieces. Perhaps, the non-use of this instrument in many basso continuous can be attributed to the thick texture and complex sound of other keyboards such as the organ. The Harpsichords and Clavichords are also somewhat polyphonic in effect with the sounds of strings on its mechanisms. Below is the sample where, a flute was used in a composition, Badinerie Suite no. 2 typifies this. The dawn of chordophones such as clavichords and harpsichord forced the early keyboardists to play using the available sounds and dynamics that early chordophones provide. The early harpsichordists or clavichordists usually lack the intensity in dynamics since, the pedals and the strings were almost heavy and no effect on dynamic structure can be totally and artistically achieved. Thus, playing the harpsichord or clavichord became a solo-piece performance (it was even considered house furniture), usually in homes of the elite rather than including the instrument in large ensembles (Burrows, 2006).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The pianoforte, the father of the modern piano, had changed the way keyboard is played. The piano was used in ensembles that coordinate with the total harmony and polyphonic strength of the ensemble. While, pianoforte pieces were supported by strings to achieve the artistic expressions of a certain period, the keyboardists during the baroque era had not explored much on the variety and musical potentials of the piano.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The pipe organs, much popularly used in chapels and cathedrals were widely used but keyboardists using the organ, singly played the instrument. Consequently, the player usually employs himself in the church as organist than joining an ensemble. This made the organ almost a single instrument played than adjoining it in an orchestra.   The reason for this is rather physical than musical. Organs, especially the pipe organs are attached to large balconies of churches than other handy instruments in an orchestra. The bulk structure cannot be of use to courts where symphonies were usually arranged. On the textural aspect, organs are somewhat polyphonically sounding with trains of sounds verging simultaneously; thus if included in an orchestra   it will greatly affect the harmony and cadence in an orchestra play. It can be very much assumed that keyboard players assume the role of a single player than a team player musician in an ensemble.   One major and leading keyboardists and vocal master is Johann Sebastian Bach. His operas and organ work largely determined the success of keyboard playing. Later, his works on the organ for instance â€Å"Toccata in F, from BWW 540† is one great example of recitative expression of a single instrument—that in organ. This work exemplifies that during his period—the baroque, where he flourished, the use of single-man keyboard playing was a typical role. In fact in compositions in early baroque, employed only parts for keyboards in sonatas, especially those of Scarletti. However, the latter employed much of strings than keyboards. The keyboardist in the baroque period usually plays as a part-player or a contributor to achieve the musical piece requirement such as solos in ornate baroque orchestral compositions. But since, baroque music typifies the grand structures even in melodies, the assumption of keyboardists are largely in parts than seen doing solos. During the middle of the baroque period, operas were in its foundational stage, and in ensembles, keyboards played secondary roles to the grand operas being established that time. Thus, this contributed to the less prominence in compositions and focus on keyboard instruments, much less to the keyboardists.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The use of keyboards in more symbolic and serious music was not contemplated; in fact, harpsichords were used in dances during its invention. Francois Couperin is one of those leading keyboardists who effusively experimented keyboards in his compositions, â€Å"Ordres†. This has become the structural base of certain French dances, commonly played in German and English settings. CHANGES IN KEYBOARDS: PIANOS Cristoforis and harpsichords are the early versions of keyboards. While many keyboards exist during the baroque period, chordophones such as pianos, were the only significant instruments that had gained certain prominence. Fortepianos, a prototype of the modern piano today had not made any significant contribution to the world of keyboard playing, since it was immediately replaced by a more complex sounding-machine—the modern piano. Modern pianos were only invented during the early mid-baroque periods, thus compositions for the single piano and pianos with orchestras are usually not common. The early musicians such as Handel, for instance, never really explored keyboards because during his time pianos and other forms of keyboards were not the main instrument in musical scenarios. Instead, classical and dramatic polyphonic structures of vocal prowess were extensively used to maximize the tonal harmony and musicality. Notice that, while the keys are almost the same, musical effe cts are different. Clavichords in many respects are totally different in mechanism, in comparison with the sound of harpsichords. And the latter, has a very distinctive sound than that of a modern piano. Carl Philippe Bach is one who used clavichord sufficiently, slightly deviating from his father Johann Sebastian Bach, who revolutionized the artistic and harmonic sensitivities of an organ.   Francois Couperin, on the other hand, a great French musician and keyboardist influenced the use of harpsichords to the latter piano masters in integrating the playfulness of keyboard keys.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The great virtuosos such as Mozart, Haydn and Beethoven used in number of scores piano pieces to show their musical artistry. But only the modern piano, because of its complexity and ability to be bent on musical artistry and be confined in musical elements, received much recognition and acceptance. This later on leads to development and creation of various musical compositions exclusively for the piano. Chopin, Dvorak became household names for the use of virtuostic piano effects and melodies.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The early physical developments of keyboards have dampened, for some time, or even stunted the growth of texture and sustaining power of piano music during its early invention. As noticed, clavichords or harpsichords do not have many pedals on them to sustain sounds in longer time periods, as it is required. Thus, fewer sustaining effect on the melody can be heard from an early pianoforte, compared to the modern pianos nowadays. A notable comment was given by Charles Rosen: â€Å"Instrumental changes since the eighteenth century have made a problem out of the balance of sound in †¦ all chamber music with piano†¦.The piano, in turn, has become louder, richer, even mushier in sound, and, above all, less wiry and metallic. This change makes nonsense out of all those passages in eighteenth-century music where the violin and the piano play the same melody in thirds, with the violin below the piano. Both the piano and the violin are now louder, but the piano is less piercing, the violin more. Violinists today have to make an effort of self-sacrifice to allow the piano to sing out softly †¦ The thinner sound of the violin in Haydn’s day blended more easily with the metallic sonority of the contemporary piano and made it possible for each to accompany the other without strain.†Ã‚   (Rosen 1997, The Classical style, p. 353) ADAPTION OF COMPOSITIONS DURING THE CHANGES   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Perhaps the greatest adaptation of musicians during the changes in keyboard structure and sound quality is the creation of solo work for keyboards. Sonatas were created that clearly emulsified the sound of singe instruments such as pianos. For instance, Haydn made numerous piano sonatas, total of sixty-two to exemplify the work on piano. However, earlier keyboard sonatas, particularly for the organ by Johann Kuhnau were created to give life to the single instruments. The changing physical features of the piano and other keyboard instruments had made the piano an isolated musical instrument. However, sonatas and concertos for the piano never end, Bach in Part II of the Well-Tempered Clavier (BWV 870-893), is one such example that though keyboards like organs were not part of chamber music, expressed that keyboard music can be complete in itself. Isolation of these instruments had been one of the solutions as form of adaptation to the physical changes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The changes in sounds and quality had pushed several composers not to consider the keyboards in many of symphonies and compositions with orchestra. Concertos however were created also especially for organs, pianos, harpsichords to adopt and singly bring out the best music of such instruments without compromising the quality of the orchestra in general. The general temperaments in music and its complexities also greatly changed with the improvisations of sounds and experiments done by musical geniuses. Bach made several attempts to adapt the keyboard to the changing times of baroque to classical.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The diminishment of counterpoint and polyphonic structures as discussed was the central figure of baroque music which was partly decreased in use during the classical period, made also serious effects on keyboard music. The monodic forms, where keyboards are only accompaniments, placed the players on the background rather than the forefront of musical scene.   While Gluck, Bach, Haydn and other late baroque composers have significantly made contributions to the prominence of the keyboard music such as harpsichords, clavichords, organs and pianos. Only the classical era made the first giant leap to put to pedestal keyboard instruments particularly the piano (Rosen, 2002). This can be attributed because during the baroque period, keyboards had not yet been perfected. Later,   great masters such as Chopin, Dvorak, Lizst and Debussy of the Classical era elevated the piano and other keyboard instruments to the level of the elite harmonic quality, and explored the endless possibilities of this instrument. WORKS CITED and PICTURE CREDITS. Good, E. (1982) Girrafes, Black Cragons, and other Pianos: A Technoligical History from Cristofori to the Modern Grand. Stanford, CA. Standforn University Press Hanning, B.R. (2002) A Concise History of Western Music (2nd edition). New York: W.W. Norton & Co. Rosen, C. (1997) The Classical Style, 2nd ed. New York: Norton. Baroque Period. Wikipeda, Free Encyclopedia, from Wikipeda Online. Retrieved May 10, 2007 from Encarta Encyclopedia, 2006. J. S. Bach’s Badinerie Suite No. 2 (sample score). Encarta Encyclopedia, 2006. Clavichord photograph by H. Deutsch. Encarta Encyclopedia 2006. Harpsichord photograph by Encarta (photograph credits cited above) Wikipeda Free Encyclopedia. Photograph and outprint source of Well-Tempered Clavier, credits cited above. Encarta Encyclopedia, 2006. J. S. Bach’s Badinerie Suite No. 2 (sample score). Rosen, C. (2002) Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas: A Short Companion. New Haven: Yale University. Burrows. Baroque Music. Encarta Encyclopedia. USA: Encarta History of Music and Piano. Wikipeda Free Encycolpedia, from Wikipeda Online, retrieved May 10, 2007,website:< http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piano_history_and_musical_performance†>   

A Reaction to the book Dibs In Search of Self

Virginia M. Axline as the author, narrator of the book, doctor-psychologist and being one of the pioneers in doing clinical cognitive technique using series of play therapy, successfully brought out the best of an emotionally crippled/mentally challenged Dibs. Way back in 1964, in which the book has published, neither the people nor the society do not understand and accept such Dibs condition and characterized it as a mental illness that family who has members like Dibs treat it as an embarrassing thing.Nowadays with modernized and advanced approach in research and studies, the society has evolved, and people now have a broader mind of thinking, perspective and acceptance. There are now some practices and scientific categories in which the case of Dibs can be classified as being a late-bloomer rather than autistic or mentally defective, which has normally evolved only after reaching a certain age.In that case, Axline was just lucky enough that she became the instrument of Dibs' comin g out from his own world as a new kid with lots of potentialities to give. Furthermore, it is understandable why Axline needed to hide the true identity of the kid and gave him the pseudonym Dibs, which in some ways, the whole story looks like a doubting half-truth narration. And this is because Dibs is only five years old, innocent and fragile when she happened to met him and played as his mentor/therapist.However, there are still some discrepancies in the story such as the truth behind Dibs' parents neglecting and estranged behavior over Dibs irregardless of his condition which has supposedly requires much more special love, care and attention from them especially that they both came from a wealthy and well-educated background. Another discrepancy that could be noted is Dibs' parent's sudden change towards him. The happiness of having a genius child urged them to treat their child positively, especially the mother, and it is normal. But is that so? Why all of a sudden?Isn't it iro nic? We all know that affluent people do not always bend down their own pride in the blink of an eye. Did they undergo some emotional therapy while Axline is taking charge of Dibs? Perhaps. But there are no stories in the novel about such thing. The book Dibs In Search of Self entails success over scientific method on unknown trials. It is Dibs who have the mental challenge issue and the main character of the book that is subjected to Axline's study of clinical cognitive technique via play therapy. But along the way, it is not only Dibs who surpassed the trial of fate.Rather, the book also imparts Axline's success of doing such play therapy approach. There are some topics and intrigues looped in the psychology circle during those times that Axline has just only created the success story of Dibs to make herself applauded and boost her name over her colleagues. But whether Dibs is just a fictional character of Axline, the lesson that the book has brought about will never be questioned . And this is the lesson that when someone believes in oneself and guide him to manifest his own potentials, positive results will always come out.

Delta Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Delta - Assignment Example It is clear from the facts provided in the case study that JetBlue and Southwest adapted technology and blended it perfectly with the customer needs. The use of live TV, paperless environment, online ticketing services, effective and use of laptops by the pilots as well as use of routes which were less served by others was some of the key activities performed by these firms to remain profitable and leading airlines in the industry. Pilots were using emails to forward their suggestions whereas the flight maintainece records were being computerized thus making the technology the key part of the overall operations of these airliners. It is however, critical to note that both these firms also actually focused upon meeting customer needs. The CEO of JetBlue used to interact directly with the customers thus offering a firsthand experience of customer expectations and these airliners responded to such expectations by offering customers what they needed. It is relatively difficult for the larger airliners to actually maintain the low cost carriers due to various reasons. Not managing disruptive technology effectively is one of the reasons as to why such larger airliners actually could not keep pace with the more agile and low cost carriers. The complacency of the organizations along with the already established rigid procedures may have further restricted the ability of these firms to actually execute the low cost strategy. These services were operated by already the same people who were also responsible for operating the premium services of the airliners. Bureaucracy, established unions and other organizational factors made it relatively difficult for larger firms to actually capitalize on the opportunities offered by the low cost carriers. Though the airliners industry was deregulated during 1970s however, the presence of the unionized labor actually made it relatively difficult for such firms to focus on reducing the cost and achieve

Setting Up and Using a Facebook Account Assignment

Setting Up and Using a Facebook Account - Assignment Example Setting up and using a Facebook account is easily enhanced by the simple available online tools such as electronic mail address and password. These mark the beginning point for establishing a basic account that can later be updated with additional designs and tools. Once registered to use this online social utility through creating a user profile, one can add friends with whom to network. Additionally, one can post information, videos or photos to update their statuses and this is open for viewing by friends. One can also join interest groups created by workmates, friends, and businesses or by institutions of learning. This online social utility enables exchanging of messages and sharing of ideas. Hence the following steps should be the guidelines in setting up and using a Facebook account. Have an email address which can be with the Google Mail (Gmail), Yahoo, Hotmail and many more. This makes use of both alphabetical letters and numerical numbers or just letters only. The email add ress can be individual or is based on an organization or institution with a central managing point.

Why I deserve an A Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Why I deserve an A - Assignment Example I am also allowed to borrow some materials for further reading at home, which I do without fail. Moreover, I am well motivated with my studies and I take them seriously. I am a firm believer that only hard work leads to success and I never let any chance to widen my knowledge capacity pass without utilizing it. I am always attentive in class and pay attention to the lectures so that I can grasp every detail mentioned. I have never been too shy or afraid to consult my classmates incase am facing difficulties with certain topics. I partnered with some friends to form a study group that is very helpful. During some weekends and holidays, we meet as a group and crack all hard topics. This is useful because the team effort helps to reduce the burden of an individual mind. The brainstorming helps us to come up with great ideas which are applicable to our classwork. I deserve an A because of the effort and time I have put on my studies. I am a hardworking student who gives his classwork priority over other stuffs. I have dedicated much of my time to my studies and I constantly consult both my lecturer and books when an issue is not that clear. Moreover, I am always careful with my work and take extra steps to ensure it is of high quality. That is why I deserve to get an

What are Some Main Problems the U.S. Faced during Reconstruction Assignment

What are Some Main Problems the U.S. Faced during Reconstruction - Assignment Example The whites were not ready to treat Africans as equals; they, therefore, went ahead to form groups like the famous Ku Klux Clan among others. These groups were used to threaten blacks, warn them not to vote, and later on turned violent on them. This kind of treatment was an indication that the whites in the south were not ready to live with blacks. They, therefore, came up with a law that allowed segregation (Stampp, 136). The federal government had to craft ways of dealing with this problem by setting up Freedmen`s Bureau to support blacks escaping from the south. Abraham Lincoln`s plan to pardon the southern states which seceded was opposed by Congress, who wanted these nations to be punished. The idea behind his plan was that these nations were to be pardoned if they took an oath of allegiance to the United States and if they also create a new government that guaranteed the end of the slave trade. After the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, a group in the Congress known as Radicals Republicans did not allow the southern senators and representatives to join the Congress (Stampp, 301). And they also came up with their own reconstruction act that made it difficult for these nations to be accepted back to the Congress. The compromise of 1877 did not just bring reconstruction to an end, but it also birthed many things. The first of which was to allow Hayes who was a Republican become president, this was also a way that was used to solved elections dispute and also allowed the withdrawal of the remaining federal troops from the south (Stampp, 217). And after Hayes was sworn in as the 19th president of the United States, he immediately ordered the remaining federal troops to be withdrawn from South Carolina and Louisiana. Hayes also came up with plans for election reforms and committed himself to bring the differences between the North and South to an end. Afterward, the Democratic Party was given freedom in the South. Even though many people look at the compromise as a positive thing, the former slaves did no, to them this decision was taking them back to slavery. This is because during reconstruction they became free and also attained both social and political rights.  

Current issue speech about hospitality marketing Essay

Current issue speech about hospitality marketing - Essay Example Research conducted by Redshift Research reports that, statistically, hotel uses lead the number of people using social media in the hospitality industry followed by vacation activities, attractions and restaurants. Olenski has used a few examples to drive his point home (Web). He argues that four seasons hotels and resorts band is very famous in the hospitality industry yet promoting it through the social media has never been successful as expected. Olenski says that an attempt to increase weekend booking through the social media by Maxine saw only a few people visiting the different social media sites such as Facebook, twitter and Instagram (Web). The few people who visited the social media platform did not have a huge impact on the market target. It is apparent that marketing the hospitality industry through the social media is not an easy task. It is indeed challenging for players in the hospitality industry to target the right audience through social media. Social media marketing also requires highly engaging and interactive platform in order to benefit a given brand. Social media marketing in the hospitality industry therefore, requires improvement on a few areas. A few mistakes are made by different brands who market their products and services in the social media in the hospitality industry. Usually, social media is accompanied with additional pressure on company’s resources including staffs that can make sure a high-level of engagement with social media users. According to Olenski, social media can only do well when issues such as immediacy, engagement and reliable are maintained (Web). Immediacy, engagement and reliability are the only way hospitality industry can gain from the social media marketing. Internal resources are significant in providing the real benefits of products and services to consumers through interaction and engagement. Social media should be utilized by the internal

Performance Evaluations Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Performance Evaluations - Assignment Example But if he is frustrated with his job, he will develop a negative attitude which would be reflected in his behavior and low motivation and productivity levels. Whenever a new supervisor is appointed, it is crucial to provide him training not only of his specified job position but also of the important aspects of performance management systems. Filling out a performance appraisal form is critical to the growth of each and every employee and any mistake could lead to serious consequences for him. The supervisor must be aware of every section of the performance appraisal form so that fair evaluation of each of his subordinates can be ensured. In light of this discussion, I recommend imparting a training session to Jill Best so that he can evaluate the employees fairly and with clear understanding of each constituent of the performance appraisal form. As per the rules and regulations laid down by O’Leary and law, every employee of the company has to be appraised irrespective of age, gender, race or color. I believe that you have shown good performance during the last twenty three years but it still needs be evaluated. Chances are that you might have been performing 4 in one area but we cannot be sure that this time it will remain on the same level-it can go up to 5 or come down to 3. Your consistently excellent performance can even get you to act as a mentor and leader to those who are at the beginning of their career ladder. It must be communicated via emails or brochures to all the employees of the company that they all need to undergo evaluation. Even the top most managers are evaluated by the board of directors. It doesn’t matter how long the employee is serving the company, he or she has to follow the rules and get appraised. It is the result of performance evaluation that the employee’s strengths and weaknesses are identified. If an employee is lacking knowledge in an area, training can be

The Effect of Feminist Revolution in my Life Essay Example for Free

The Effect of Feminist Revolution in my Life Essay The feminist revolution in the 1990’s may be considered as one of the turning points in world history. From most countries that have been purely patriarchal in nature, the world evolved and suddenly man is no longer the entirely dominant sex in the society. As time passed, women acquired voice, will-power, and independence. The traditional women slowly dissolved and have been replaced by stronger women, in control, and no longer man’s subordinate but his equal and oftentimes his opponent (Badinter, 2006). This part of history has affected not only the women of those times but even the ones who came after them. I am part of the batch that came after the 90’s women and as a woman, I am grateful for the change that was brought by the feminist revolution. Because of it, I am not merely a shadow of a man, nor a doll that may be manipulated. I am a woman, who has her own mind, decides for herself, and defend it as much as she wishes. If the women of the 90’s did not revolt against the existing system, which had men dominated in the important aspects of society and perhaps life as a whole, there is a probability that my ideologies today are different. This is more potent due to the fact that I live in a country where Latin culture is dominant and my parents were raised under the strict rules that the culture dictates. This is actually where the feminist revolution has affected my life. It is undeniable that Latin culture dictates that men are the heads of the family. In the days before the 1990 feminist revolution, men ruled over almost every aspect of life with the justification from both religion and the government legislation. As the revolution opened more minds, pressure on branches of the state has forced it to gradually have modifications. Some rules that were not allowed before were given chances and observed for unwanted results. Women’s rights have been expanded. The effect of this are clashing opinions of both sexes (Htun, 2003). Since I am one of the liberal minded women, the problem that serves as an effect of history in my life is that my parents and I do not quite find a commonality in viewing some aspects of certain matters. First and foremost reason, I was born later than they were. The culture I have grown into is not the culture in which they were raised. My mother is very traditional and my father is very strict on imposing the same rules the he has grown into. Although I understand that generation gap should be bridged rather than widened, this becomes very difficult for me. I am a child of modernity and I go by the rules of it. I please my parents as much as I can. Despite this, there still seems to be lacking. The problem I find is that the changes that were brought about by the feminist revolution were good for some people, but to others, it has destroyed a tradition, a trademark of the culture. For instance, the Latin world, dominated by male suddenly had women with their own voices and will power, even ability to defy. It was good for the women because it somehow freed them of some men’s oppression. However, to the patriarchs of the family, whose life he devoted to keep his lineage together and standing, this is in a way hurtful. Perhaps it may be considered as ego-eccentric thinking; however, others view it as a means of preserving what has been prevailing from the start. The patriarchal families may have oppressed some of the women, but most families owe their stature from this setting. For this, people must be considerate. It should be taken to mind that their actions are surely, also results from another part of history. As I am, my parents are also effects of a past action. As such, I try to understand them. The gap between me and my parents maybe considered as an effect of history. I am grateful for to the pioneers of female revolution – for my way of thinking, my female strength and independence. It is somehow damaging to those who believe patriarchy so strongly. However, it should be noted that this same mind that the revolution has freed can understand the grief they may be feeling from suddenly losing total control. This same mind, which the revolution has fought for, can see through their anger. The revolution was not fought for vengeance, it was started for equality. And with that, women understand better. I know. I see. The effect of history to me is not only to be man enough not be oppressed, but to remain woman enough to be sensitive. References Badinter, E. (2006). Dead End Feminism. United Kingdom: Polity. Htun, M. (2003). Sex and the State: Abortion, divorce, and the family under Latin American Dictatorships and democracies. New York: Cambridge University Press.

Starbucks Motivation Strategy: Case Study

Starbucks Motivation Strategy: Case Study Nowadays, the competition becomes more extreme because rapid globalization in the recent years, especially for the service industry with the similar products. The most vital point for business to success is not only the quality of products they supply, but the atmosphere of cooperating and the amount from yield of teamwork in retail sales. The employees who always touch with customers and can realize what customers really need are first-line staffs. Therefore, it turns to be essential for companies to motivate, reward and train their employees to be the best quality personnel. In the first stage, the historical background of Starbucks will be introduced. Secondly, an issue about the methods of motivating employees are going to discuss. Next, the strategies, which are used by Starbucks to make their teamwork performance well, will be pointer out. In the end, there is a conclusion about the effect of policies in motivation and teamwork. Managers are constantly searching for ways to  create a motivational environment where associates  (employees) to work at their optimal levels to  accomplish company objectives. Workplace  motivators include both monetary and non-monetary  incentives. Monetary incentives can be diverse while  having a similar effect on associates. One example of  monetary incentives is mutual funds provided  through company pension plans or insurance  programs. Because it has been suggested that  associates, depending on their age, have different  needs pertaining to incentives, traditional incentive  packages are being replaced with alternatives to attract younger associates.  This paper will discuss how monetary and non-monetary incentives are influenced by career stages and the problems associated with monetary  and non-monetary incentives. How the entire total reward and human resources (HR) systems at Starbucks are linked to the business objectives and reinforce the companys strong culture and values. Working in mutual support of the business, the culture, and values, this integrated HR system has helped shape a powerful success story that didnt rely on conventional thinking and trends with respect to the treatment of its workforce. Part 2: Setting the Scene A Brief History of Starbucks Starbucks Coffee Company, as we know it today, began in 1987, when Howard Schultz, the current chairman and CEO, acquired the assets from the original founders, whom he had worked with from 1982 to 1985. In 1987, Starbucks had 11 stores. The original business plan, and promise to the investors, was to have 125 stores within five years. From 1987 to 1992, the company remained private, growing at the astonishing rate of 80% per year to more than 150 stores. In June 1992, the company went public, and it was one of the most successful initial public offerings of the year. Today, Starbucks is the leading retailer, roaster, and brand of specialty coffee in North America. It operates more than 1,800 retail locations in North America, the United Kingdom, and the Pacific Rim and has established joint-venture partnerships with Breyers (to produce coffee ice cream) and PepsiCo (to produce Frappuccino, a bottled coffee drink). Sales for fiscal year 1997 were $967 million, an increase of nearly 39% over the previous year, and the company employed more than 25,000 partners (the companys term for employees). The company goal is to have more than 2,000 locations in North America by the year 2000. The company mission is to establish Starbucks as the premier purveyor of the finest coffee in the world while maintaining our uncompromi sing principles as we grow. Starbucks Culture and Values: The Driver of HR and Reward Systems Starbucks is a values-driven company, with a firmly established set of principles that are widely shared within the organization. It is also a company that puts its employees first and invests a tremendous amount in them. None of this is by accident. Source: Wilson, Thomas, B., Rewards That Drive High Performance, Amazon, New York, 1999. www.wilsongroup.com 1 It all stems from the values and beliefs of its CEO. Says Schultz, I wanted to establish the kind of company that gave people a form of equity (ownership) and comprehensive health insurance, and most importantly, give them self-esteem in the workplace. People feel that Starbucks is a place that gives them self-respect and values the contributions they make, regardless of their education or where they are in the company. The company believes that if it puts partners first, the result will be exceptional customer service, and by extension, if it has highly satisfied customers, the financial returns will follow. The history of Starbucks Starbucks began by three friends, Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker, who knew each other in the University of Seattle. In 1971, the first name of their store is Starbucks Coffee, Tea, and Spice in Seattle, Washingtons Pike Place Market. They engaged in making profit from selling coffee beans roasted to individual customers and restaurants. Until 1982, they had increased the number of stores to four. During the same period, a sales representative of the house ware business in New York, Hammerplast, visited them. Howard Schultz wanted to know why a small company needs a large number of percolators from Hammerplast. Because of the trade relationship between these two companies, he was acquainted with the three inventors. After he realized the atmosphere and environment of the company, he decided to be a part of Starbucks, then as a director of marketing and retail sales. In the following year, he had a vocation to Milan, Italy. Though the time, he experienced an entirely different coffee culture from the United States. The culture of Italian cafà © had been one part of peoples daliy life. There were numerous coffee bars around the area and the public usually liked to socialize in a coffee bar. Under those circumstances, Schultz had an idea of a new flavor of cafà © and a stylish environment to communicating with friends. After the trip, he prepared the business plan for his vision. However, the three initiators did not want to transfer their business into restaurant industry. Consequently, in 1985 he chose to establish a new coffee shop, named II Giornale, in Seattle. After the next two years, due to the successful strategy of Schultz, the original three owners of Starbucks decided to sell their corporation to Schultz. Then Schultz gathered other investors and took over the name of II Giornale to Starbucks. He sought to pursue his dream to make everyone taste his coffee, so he focused on the rate of expanding. At that time, he though that the most efficient way to grow the amount of branches is to set up new stores in other places. In I987, Starbucks had the first overseas store in Japan. In the subsequent years, owing to the rising expenses with the worldwide broadening, there was a deficit in Starbucks for the next three years. In contrast, he firmly believed that not to sacrifice long-term integrity and values for short-term profit (Michelli, 2006). In 1991, it turned loss into gain and its sales grew up sharply to 84 percent. Until the end of 2002, Starbucks has developed from 17 stores to 5,688 spreading over 30 countries in by this strategy, it is an over 300 times growing in these ten years! (shown as Exhibit 1) From Fortune magazine, Starbucks was ranked the 11th best company to work for in 2005 in the USA and then risen up in 2006 to 29th. As to 2007, it was ranked as the 16th best. In the same year, Starbucks was also voted as one of the top ten UK workplaces by the Financial Times. (Resource: wikipedia) Part 3 Literature Review Definition of Motivation Motivation is one of the most important aspects of an individualà ®Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬sb eh av io r that determines not only how individual behaves and thinks but also ways in which he / she interacts with others and influences them. Motivation is derived from the word motives. The word motive is derived from Latin word movere, which means to move or to energize. Thus motivation actives us and directs our behavior to a particular goal. According to Armstrong (2002 P.56) states that People wont change their behaviour unless it makes a difference to  them to do so Managers are individuals who achieve their goals through other people. They are constantly searching for ways to motivate their employees to make them work at their optimal level of performance to accomplish the company objective. Various incentives are provided by the managers to their employees for motivation. The incentives that are provided by the mangers to their employees can be broadly classified as monetary incentives and non-monetary incentives. 2.1 Comparison of monetary and non-monetary incentives The purpose of monetary incentives is to reward associates for excellent job performance through money. Monetary incentives include profit sharing, project bonuses, stock options and warrants, scheduled bonuses (e.g., Christmas and performance-linked), and additional paid vacation time. Traditionally, these have helped maintain a positive motivational environment for associates. Monetary incentives can be diverse while having a similar effect on associates. One example of monetary incentives is mutual funds provided through company pension plans or insurance programs. Because it has been suggested that associates, depending on their age have different needs pertaining to incentives, traditional incentive packages are being replaced with alternatives to attract younger associates. On the other hand, the purpose of non-monetary benefits is to reward excellent job performance through opportunities. Non-monetary incentives include flexible work hours, training, pleasant work environment, and sabbaticals. 2.2 Problems with monetary incentives Managements have always looked at man as an animal to be  manipulated with a carrot and stick. They found that when a man is lured/hurt, he will move to get the prize/avoid the pain-and they say, Were motivating the employees. Hell you are not motivating them, you are moving them.* -Frederick Herzberg, Professor Emeritus Monetary incentives usually encourage compliance and achievement of difficult targets instead of encouraging creativity, innovation and foresight which are more important in the long run. Thus employees are not able to express their true talent and in the long run lose their creativity. Employers also may use monetary incentives as an extrinsic rather than an intrinsic motivator. In other words, associates are driven to do things just for the monetary reward versus doing something because it is the right thing to do. This can disrupt or terminate good relationships between employees because they are transformed from co-workers to competitors, which can quickly disrupt the workplace environment. Another problem with monetary incentive is that it is given to circumvent a bigger problem for a short run. Sales employees are given higher monetary incentives to compensate for poor management and poor products, employees are paid more for working in poor work environment. Monetary incentives can even drive the employees to falsely reporting their achievements. Huge monetary incentives given to middle mangers are seen as a hook to retain them which may make them work counterproductively. Though the monetary incentives have a better effect than the monetary incentives in the short run, they fail miserably in the long run and in extreme situations downfall of the company (when employees start anticipating monetary incentives even for routine jobs and in absence of which they start working inefficiently or go on a strike as in the case of some government employee s). Also most of the non-monetary incentives are intrinsic in nature. Intrinsic motivation is more effective as the impetus to work is from within. Employees are working because they feel satisfied or fulfilled by the activity they undertake. Under these circumstances the management can be regarded as more of a support than control. So managers should concentrate more on non-monetary incentives after the minimum level of monetary benefits and properly structure them according to their employees preference. This will ensure high motivational level of the employees which will get reflected in their better performance at work. 2.3 Theories which support intrinsic motivation Various theories that support the concept that intrinsic motivation which is attained through non-monetary incentives is important and better than extrinsic motivation are as follows: Maslows Hierarchy of needs This theory states that the needs of social, esteem and self actualisation are higher order needs. The differentiation between the higher order needs and lower order needs is that the higher order needs are satisfied at the individual level whereas the lower order needs are satisfied externally. Herzbergs two-factor theory It supports the emphasis on factors associated with work like promotional opportunities, opportunities for personal growth, recognition, responsibility, and achievement which employees find intrinsically rewarding McClellands Theory of Needs This theory focuses on three needs: achievement, power and affiliation. They are defined as follows Need for achievement: The drive to excel, to achieve in relation to a set of standards, to strive to succeed. Need for power: The need to make others behave in a way that they would not have behaved otherwise Need for affiliation: The desire for friendly and closely interpersonal relationships. Cognitive evaluation theory This theory states that allocating extrinsic rewards for behaviour that had been rewarding intrinsically leads to decrease in overall level of motivation. Thus it supports the view that it is better to continue intrinsic motivation to boost the morale of employees. Goal-Setting theory This theory supports the idea that specific and difficult goals with feedback  lead to higher motivation and performance. Self-efficacy theory(Social cognitive theory) It is the individuals belief that a task assigned can be done. Higher the self efficacy higher is the confidence of the employee at the workplace. Reinforcement theory This theory states that the behaviour is a function of its consequences. If employees feel that their efforts are duly rewarded then they will work in a more effective manner for the organisation. Equity theory This theory states that individuals compare their job inputs and outcomes with those of others and then respond to eliminate any inequities. If their colleagues are given recognition employees will work towards achieving those rewards. This motivates them to perform them to work better which beneficial to the organisation. Expectancy theory The strength of a tendency to act in a certain way depends on the strength of an expectation that the act will be followed by a outcome and on the attractiveness of that outcome to the individual. Thus when expectations from a employee increases the employee responds with better performance. From the above theories (however different they may be) it is clear that intrinsic motivation is desired by the employees. 2.4 Intrinsic Motivation by non-monetary incentives Various non-monetary incentives motivate employees intrinsically which is more efficient than the extrinsic motivation. The intrinsic motivation that these incentives offer is the result of intrinsic rewards of self management. Self management In employees perspective self-management is choosing activities, monitoring competence, committing to purpose and monitoring progress. The intrinsic motivation that energises the work comes directly from the four management events namely activities, purpose, opportunities and rewards. From these four events the employees make a judgement -of the meaningfulness of the task purpose, the degree of choice available in selecting activities, the competence with which the activities are performed, and the amount of progress being made to the task purpose. The judgements from self-management lead to intrinsic rewards which in turn provide the energy for self- management which completes the cycle. OPPORTUNITY ACCOMPLISHMENT Rewards Rewards From task ACTIVITIES From task PURPOSE Sense of meaningfulness It is the opportunity that makes the employees feel that they are on a path that is worth the energy and time-that they are on a valuable mission that matters in the larger scheme of things. Sense of choice It is the opportunity that the employees feel to select task activities that make sense to them and to perform them in ways that seem appropriate to them. The feeling of choice is the feeling of being free to choose-of being able to use their judgement and act out of their own understanding of task Sense of competence It is the accomplishment that employees feel in skilfully performing task activities that have been chosen by them. The feeling of competence involves the sense that they are doing good, high-quality work on a task. Sense of PROGRESS It is the accomplishment felt in achieving the task purpose. The feeling of progress involves the sense that the task is moving forward, and their activities are really accomplishing something. It is the accomplishment felt in achieving the task purpose. The feeling of progress involves the sense that the task is moving forward, and their activities are really accomplishing something. 2.5 Non-monetary incentives The non-monetary incentives desired by employees across generations have gone rapid changes. The following table shows the preferences in non-monetary incentives across generations. Baby Boomers (born between 1946-63) Generation Xers (born between 1964-81) Generation Yers (born after 1982) Retirement planning Flexible schedules Job training Sabbaticals Flexible schedules Professional development Feedback Tangible rewards Work environment Flexible schedules Professional development Feedback Tangible rewards Work environment Attentive Employers Autonomy Table 2: Preferences in non-monetary incentives across generations Thus it is obvious that the demands of the current generation of employees are ever increasing and in current scenario where there is low loyalty to the companies, high attrition rate these demands have to be met reasonably well to attract prospective employees who can perform really well and to retain the employees. 3. PRACTICES IN ORGANISATIONS Various non-monetary incentives in Table 1 are affected by career stage and proximity to retirement. The older the associate, the more the focus is placed on retirement or supplementing retirement income with part-time or temporary jobs. The younger the associate, the more the focus is placed on job satisfaction and the work environment. Types of non-monetary incentives Various types of non-monetary incentives are as follows: Flextime Professional development Feedback Tangible rewards Work environment Attentive employers Autonomy Redesigning of jobs Retirement planning and others. 3.1 Flextime Flextime refers to several arrangements that allow the employee to work a non-traditional schedule. The employee and the manager agree in advance on the hours of work. Flextime is a popular option for good reasonit lends balance to busy lives. Fortunately, flextime also benefits the manager too. Allowing employees to work schedules that best suit their lives results in more productive workers. The most common flextime arrangements include: Compressed workweek This arrangement allows the employees to work a full, 40-hour schedule in 4 days by extending the hours they work each day. The compressed week can also be scheduled over 2 workweeks, during which they work 9 longer days and have the tenth off. In any case, the compressed workweek maintains the same overall number of hours, just divided up differently. The workload, benefits, and pay are not affected by the arrangement. Adjusted lunch Working an adjusted lunch schedule doesnt actually allow any additional days off. Instead, he employees can take a longer lunch each day, making up the hours at the beginning or end of the day. For example, he manager may allow the employee to take your lunch from 11-1 so that the latter can run errands, go to a doctors appointment, or work out, but in exchange the employee works that additional hour at the beginning or end of your day. This sort of arrangement may be an unofficial privilege of every worker, especially if its used only occasionally. Core hours Next to the compressed workweek, this is the most popular scheduling strategy because of the flexibility it offers. With this schedule, an employee can work certain hours every day, and as long as the schedule is built around the work time specified. For instance, if the core hours are 10-3, the employee must work 10-3 every day, but the starting and ending times can vary. The employee may choose to work 10-6, or 7-3, or any other combination as long as those core hours are covered. If the employee maintains the same total number of hours, your workload, benefits, and pay remain the same. Flexible hours Common core Lunch Common core Flexible hours 6 A.M 9 A.M 12 noon 1 P.M 3 P.M 6 P.M Figure 2: Example of a Flextime schedule The only problem with flextime is that it cant be extended to employees involved in production as the work time also depends on the machines which have to be run continuously for a certain period of time. Problems may arise if flextime is offered to employees of other departments and not to those of production department. So it is better not to introduce flextime in organisations where it cant be extended to all the departments. 3.2 Professional development In a broad sense professional development may include formal types of vocational education, typically post-secondaryor polytechnic training leading to qualification or acredentia l required to get or retain employment. Informal or individualized programs of professional development may also include the concept of personalcoaching. Professional development on the job may develop or enhance process skills, sometimes referred to as leadership skills, as well as task skills. Some examples for process skills are effectiveness skills, team functioning skills, and systems thinking skills. Some examples of task skills are computer software applications, customer service skills and safety training. Examples of skills relevant to a currentoccupation are leadership training for managers and training for specific techniques or equipment for educators,technicians, metal workers,medical  practitionersand engineers. For some occupations there is a provision for  accreditation tied to continuing professional education and proving competence  regulated by a professional body. 10 3.3 Feedback People dont quit organisations, they quit bosses. This can be extended to colleagues too. Improper communication, negative relationship, backbiting etc can lead to inefficiency and counter productivity. To overcome this, organisations are adopting feedback culture. It is the culture wherein all the employees are taught the skills of effectively receiving and giving feedback which is the degree to which carrying out the work activities required by the job results in the employee obtaining direct and clear information about the effectiveness in their job performance. This includes telling each other frankly, honestly and effectively what they think about their behaviour, job performance, ideas etc. Employees prefer being told what others think about them directly instead of in the round about way and they like being given feedback to self evaluate their performance. They also would like to frankly tell their bosses the various problems and issues faced by them. Feedback is of two types positive and negative. Positive feedback improves the morale of the receiver and negative feedback improves the performance of the receiver. Poor feedback can reduce morale, the ability to do the job, confidence of employees and can even lead to conflicts between the management and the employees. Hence great care has to be taken while giving and receiving feedback. So when both the managers and the employees acquire these skills of giving and receiving feedback the feedback culture works out well for the company. The following factors are to be considered while giving feedback: Make feedback specific Ambiguity and vagueness will make feedback ineffective as the receiver might miss out the whole point. It should be made sure that there is no personality clash between the giver and receiver. Both of them should be comfortable with the way the feedback is being given and neither of them should feel attacked or offended. To do away with these problems the feedback has to be specific. Concentrate on behaviour and results Feedback should concentrate on behaviour, results and future prospective and not on personality and attitudes so that the receiver gets the desired message in the desired manner. Take responsibility The manager/employee should take the initiative of giving feedback rather than putting the blame on others saying that it is not their job. Most often it is due to lack of skills and unwillingness to give feedback. Employees should also be encouraged to take responsibility as there is lot of emphasis on teamwork and empowerment in present days organisations which are becoming flat. Balanced feedback Feedback has to be balanced and accurate. Overstating or understating results will lead to ineffectiveness of feedback. Feedback on periodic basis Feedback has to be on a periodic basis preferably on weekly basis. Delay in giving feedback will render it ineffective. Similarly while receiving feedback the receiver has to listen attentively to all what is said, analyse the feedback and take remedial action. Though difficult to establish, feedback culture promotes teamwork, job satisfaction, employee empowerment, improvement in job performance and so is preferred by most of the employees. 3.4 Tangible rewards It is important to understand how different groups of employees perceive the total reward package offered by the organisation, particularly if the marketing adage Perception is Reality were to be recalled. If the employee doesnt understand the total reward package, how can employee value it? And how can it motivate he employee to perform? Therefore, there is a need to gain an understanding of how managers and employees perceive reward, and, in the case of the Senior Management Team, where they think reward should focus? Perception of reward can be researched using the following tool: Senior Management Team Brainstorm It is always important to involve the Senior Management Team (SMT) in Total Reward policy development. It is best to involve them from the outset to ensure that they understand and contribute to what you are doing. The key reason for conducting management interviews or focus groups is to gain buy-in from those who will be accountable for implementing the strategy. Interviews can help identify the information that managers will find useful, and begin to develop an action plan. This should focus on the big picture and on priorities, not on detail. Top teams (or other senior groups) are likely to be unenthusiastic about detailed level definitions. The specific organisation and style of the debate will depend on the make-up of the team and the nature of the facilitators relationship with it. The focus will be on discovering either what really matters to people who work here? or based on the kind of people you want to work here, what do you think would really matter to them? The focus in each case will be on discovering either what really matters to people who work here? or based on the kind of people you want to work here, what do you think would really matter to them? Cash vs. Tangible Rewards Why Do Merchandise and other Tangible Rewards Motivate Better Than Cash? Perks programs feature custom-designed rewards catalogues with highly desirable and attainable merchandise as rewards. Our reward items are memorable and reinforce the relationship between the reward earner and the reward provider. They keep on giving each time a merchandise reward is viewed or noticed: recipients relive the special recognition and appreciate the organization that honoured them. Cash rewards on the other hand, often have fleeting impact and more often than not, leave the recipients mind as soon as they are spent. Cash unfortunately for those companies that attempt to motivate with it is the least lasting type of reward, because its typically confused with other compensation and therefore forgotten. Additional reasons to use tangible rewards rather than cash are summarized below. Comparison between cash and tangible rewards. Cash or Any Cash Equivalent Purely an extrinsic motivator with little emotional involvement; does not  provide lasting satisfaction and long-term performance stimulation   Creates expectations, leads to entitlement and consequently looses its motivating value A dollar is a dollar; participant attaches no greater emotional or inspirational value to cash. Lacks emotional impact of tangible rewards; thus quickly spent and forgotten   No trophy value to be a constant reminder and continue to motivate. It is  difficult to show off; thus limits the lasting impact of the reward Difficult to target a particular behaviour because of the lacking association  with a particular achievement Recipients often cant recall what they purchased with cash reward which  further diminished its impact Minimal association with Sponsor Company due to minimal trophy value  of reward which minimizes the potential of goodwill toward the company   Not cost-effective; requires three times the incentive investment compared  to non-cash, on average Usually spent on necessities thus lacking a positive association with the  targeted accomplishment or behaviour Participant feels guilty for not spending a cash award on necessities which  taints the reward with unpleasant feelings Tangible Rewards 1. Carry a significant trophy value thus continue to reinforce

Awareness and Attitude of Radiographers Towards Protection

Awareness and Attitude of Radiographers Towards Protection Nor Atiqah Binti Mohd Fouzi RESEARCH TITLE Awareness and attitude of radiographers towards radiation protection PROBLEM STATEMENT The term ‘radiation’ covers a wide spectrum of different forms of energy, most of which have been suspected to cause ill health to human-beings (Mubeen et al., 2008). The use of ionizing radiation in diagnostic radiography may lead to hazards such as somatic and genetic damages. In addition to the use of ionizing radiation for diagnosis could be have slight chances of damage to living tissues. The effects of low level exposure to ionizing radiation are of a concern to large number of people. For example radiology department has the potential to present the harmful effects of radiation (Mojiri and Moghimbeigi, 2011). Thus Personal protection devices is an important way to address the ‘as low as reasonably achievable’ (ALARA) requirement in radiography. However, its use relies on the attitudes of radiographer to consistently adhere to professional conduct requirements relating to the application of protection devices especially for lead apron, thyroid shield, gonad shield, radiation sign, lead glove and lead goggles (MacKay et al., 2012). Awareness and knowledge of application protection guidelines and instruments among radiology technicians is vital to ensure a safe workplace. Compliance with work and safe radiation protection practices can reduce these risks. The protective measures provided are implemented, to ensure that the risks associated with the use of diagnostic ionizing radiation can be reduced. Therefore, the effect of radiation to the patient or the person responsible for the use of radiation would increase the risk of harm to them. Thus this research intended to answer the question, does radiographer aware of radiation protection and its attitude toward radiation protection? OBJECTIVES General objective The objective of this research to assess the awareness and attitude of radiographers on radiation protection at medical imaging department. Specific objectives To evaluate awareness regarding radiation safety among radiographers. To evaluate personal practices regarding the use of protection devices among radiographers. RESEARCH HYPHOTHESIS Hypothesis 1 Null Hypothesis: The radiographers with low level of work experiences had less knowledge about adverse effects due of radiation. Alternative Hypothesis: The radiographers with high level of work experiences had more knowledge about adverse effects due of radiation. Hypothesis 2 Null Hypothesis: The radiographers with low level of education had less personal practice regarding the use of protection devices. Alternative Hypothesis: The radiographers with high level of education had further personal practice regarding the use of protection devices. LITERATURE REVIEW Radiological examinations are an essential tool for the evaluation of many disorders in daily practice. Ionizing radiation in medical imaging is one of the powerful diagnostic tools in medicine. Radiation which is applied in radiology departments has hazardous effects on biological systems. They produce some type of injury that is incurable. Although all medical interventions have potential benefits, but its potential risks should not be ignored. The cancers risks arise with radiation have been known. Ionizing radiation may effects on gastrointestinal system, central nervous system, gonads or even whole body. These effects may appear as somatic effects or in next generation as genetic effects (Mojiri and Moghimbeigi, 2011). Doses of whatever magnitude are assumed by International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) to be able to induce what are referred to as †stochastic effects† such as cancers and hereditary disorders (Yucel et al., 2009). Dose-dependent effects are called as â€Å"deterministic effects† that may be responsible for teratogenicity in diagnostic radiology. These effects are also useful for cancer therapy. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is sometimes given with curative intent that is, with the hope that the treatment will cure a cancer, either by eliminating a tumor, preventing cancer recurrence, or both (Yucel et al., 2009). To minimize the probability of stochastic effects and prevent deterministic effects, the practice of radiology is guided by the radiation protection framework established by the ICRP. One of the important principles of this framework is that of optimization, meaning the use of as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) dose without compromising the quality of the image. Optimization, therefore, involves strategies to manage the radiation dose to the patient (Seeram et al., 2013). In addition, a common pattern was the use of automatic exposure control (AEC) and the measurement of constant effective dose, and the use of a dose-area product (DAP) meter (Warlow et al., 2014). Many studies showed that knowledge about ionizing radiation was insufficient among radiographer and physicians who requested radiological procedures, even radiologists who should have had more information than non-radiologists (Yucel et al., 2009). Radiation protection is the science and art of protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. It is also described as all activities directed towards minimizing radiation exposure of patients and personnel during x-ray exposure. Thus occupational radiation protection is necessity whenever radiation is used in the practice of medicine. Occupational radiation protection measures are necessary for all individuals who work in the diagnostic imaging departments. This includes not only technologists and nurses, but also individuals who may be in a radiation environment only occasionally. All of these individuals may be considered radiation workers, depending on their level of exposure and on national regulations. All workers require appropriate monitoring continuously by common personnel dosimeters like film badge and thermo luminescence dosimeter. They must also receive education and training appropriate to their jobs and protect by tools and equipment. The amount of absorbed dose is related to exposure factors such as kV/ potential difference and mA/ intensity of the beam and time. Personnel protective devices applied for the employee to work safely with the construction of a dose reduction of exposure to personnel. Moreover development and refinement of basic safety standards has a great important role to protect radiology staffs. The level of awareness concerning with radiation protection influences in staff behavior is important. If they have not enough information related to mentioned issue, their action will not be safe and resulted to adverse effects (Mojiri and Moghimbeigi, 2011). METHODOLOGY Study Design Study design will be the cross-sectional study in which the information gather from at least 40 respondents, randomly pick and will be analyzed. Time is provided to them to answer all of the questions in the questionnaire and they need to return back the questionnaire after they finished answering it. All of the data that get from the questionnaires is considered as confidential and all the data will key-in to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of radiographers towards radiation protection. Study Setting This study will be conducted at the hospital will be my practical. Sampling Design and Sample Size In this study, a sample selection of 40 radiographers who have answered the designated questionnaire will be randomly taken out from the target population. Inclusion criteria All radiographer who work in that hospital. Exclusion criteria Clinical students. Research Flow Data Collection Procedures The data collection of 40 respondents will be collected using questionnaires. Radiographers are given questionnaires. They will be asked to fill up the questionnaire. The questionnaire will be asses their awareness regarding radiation safety and their personal practices regarding the use of these protection devices. In producing the questionnaires, I adapted the questionnaires from the previous study which are Takakuwa et al., 2010, Baumann et al, 2011, Sin et al., 2012 Larson et al., 2007. The questionnaires were divided into two sections. The questionnaire has mainly two parts with various questions around radiation protection and safety related to staff and patients. The first part contained information about demographic data like age, sex, work experiences and etc. The second section was about awareness and attitude of employees around protection acts, protection device and dose limit. All the data and details then will be gathered using the standard version of SPSS version 18.0 for windows will be used in a statistical analysis. Data analyzed by Chi square and Fisher exact tests to detect relationship between categorical data. 7.6 Research Tools This study will use hand-out questionnaires in order to obtain data from respondents. Participants for this research are selected when they had finished doing a case related to medical imaging and research done during radiographer have free time. The set of questionnaires set for response are attached in Appendix 1. 7.7 Statistical Consideration The data will be analyzed using SPSS version 18.0. All the data from the data collection form will be gathered to and key in into this software. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to show the relative proportion of radiographer selecting given answers for each question. Chi square and Fisher exact tests will be used to detect relationship between categorical data. ETHICAL CONSIDERATION Research questions pursued in this study are relevant to important health care issues. This study also justified based on the potential scientific value of its results. Statistical procedures to be carried out during this study will be appropriate, and will not be used to manipulate the data just to get significant results. This final result of this study will be published in a thorough and honesty during reporting. Data information that will collect from the respondent will be private and confidential. Approval for this study will be sought from the Faculty of Health Science, MARA University of Technology, which is associated with Imaging Diagnostic Department at the hospital that I would practically then. Furthermore, researchers will complete and sign the application of research ethics to be approved by the Faculty of Health Sciences, MARA University of Technology, to declare that the research has been tied to ethical principles. A copy of the proposal and agreement of the investigation will be included. Head of department and institution approval will submit personally to the respective institutional by the researcher for approval. BUDGET The calculation of estimated budget for this research includes the travelling cost, printing cost, and photocopy. Below is the table of the estimating cost. Table 1: Estimated Cost of the Project PROPOSED TIME FRAME FOR THE PROJECT A Gantt chart is a planning tool that shows graphically the order in which various tasks must be completed and the duration of each activity. Look at table 2 below on the planning of the study to be conducted. Table 2: Gants Chart of the Project

Freeganism: An Eco-friendliness Way of Living Essay -- Culture SubCul

The world is inhabited by numerous cultures consisting of different lifestyles. Freeganism is a subculture that is ordinarily unheard of. The characteristics are impressively diverse from those most would associate with everyday life. The capitalistic culture incorporates commodified food, organized structure, ‘hygienically clean’, easier accessible foods, and more individualization. On the other hand, a freegan culture is comprised of free food, a less organized structure, ‘dirty’ foods with a chance of being raw or rotten, slower food and lifestyle, and is more socially connected (Edwards and Mercer). Those living this standard of life are scavengers of the developed world, living off consumer waste in an effort to minimize their support of corporations and their impact on the planet. Grace Hutchins, a passionate supporter of this form of life, depicts it as dumpster diving to use resources that would go to waste, voluntary work that includes sharing huma n resources, such as time and skills, and finding ways to limit consumption and materialism in our own lives and those of others. A variety of reasons people choose to participate in the freegan lifestyle are more diverse than one would think. Uninformed bystanders may initially imagine the homeless scavenging bins to survive, but many members of the subculture dumpster dive with economic, political and environmental condition in mind. The primary purpose for most is to positively impact the environment by minimizing the amount of wasted food (Kurutz 3). By some, this act could be viewed as a symbolic, political act against capitalist overproduction and waste. Acquiring food from dumpsters can be for both individual consumption and the benefit of the surrounding community.... ...pollute the Earth with massive waste. Society has the choice between wasting life on working in order to purchase good which contribute to the destruction of the environment or living a ‘full satisfying life’, occasionally scavenging or working your self-sufficiency skills to obtain the necessities for contentment, eliminating waste, and boycotting everything. Works Cited Edwards, Ferne, and David Mercer. "Gleaning from Gluttony: An Australian Youth Subculture Confronts the Ethics of Waste." Australian Geographer Nov. 2007: 279-82. Academic Search Premier. Web. 12 Nov. 2010. Einem, Eric. Personal interview. 19 Nov. . Hutchins, Grace. Personal interview. 21 Nov. . Kurutz, Steven. "Not Buying It." The New York Times 27 June 2009: 1-4. Web. 13 Nov. 2010. Thomas, Sean. "Do Freegans Commit Theft?" Legal Studies 30.1 (2010). Web. 13 Nov. 2010.

Improving the Educational System Essays -- Education Teaching Learning

Improving the Educational System ï » ¿Teachers are committed to challenging all students to succeed, whatever their abilities, interests, social and cultural background, gender, prior attainment or aspirations. As future teachers, we need to know the aspects of society, so that we can ensure that each one of our students is successful and achieves his or her potential through the education provided. In this paper, I will be using the articles from the Social Class/Race and School Finance section of the class to evaluate the effects of social stratification, cultural capital, and social reproduction, school financing, and school environment. Social stratification lies at the core of society and of the discipline of sociology. Social inequality is a fundamental aspect of virtually all social processes, and a person's position in the stratification system is the most consistent predictor of his or her behavior, attitudes, and life chances. Social stratification links almost all aspects of society together, and therefore understanding what is happening to social stratification helps us understand a wide range of other changes in society. In the article â€Å"Social Class Differences In Family-School Relationships: The Importance of Cultural Capital† by Annette Laureau, summarizes a study of family-school relations and cultural capital. The results(of the study) suggest that social class position and class culture becomes a form of cultural capital in the school setting(Laureau, 1987). The families of working class lacked money, time, individual educational attainment, value of education, and high expectation on their children where as the middle-class families had all the advantages to support their children’s achievement at school. Lareau shows the effortful evidence that parents with resources will be able help their children attain much higher aspiration. This research uses the concepts of social and cultural capital to student behavior. Social capital may take the form of information-sharing channels and networks, as well as social norms, values, and expected behaviors. High status cultural signals include the attitudes, preferences, knowledge, behaviors, possessions, and credentials that function as informal academic standards, and that are generally defined by the dominant class. Individuals who lack the required cultura... ...help to improve the education these students receive. Improving the learning environment is the first step to rebuilding our inner city schools. More importantly, programs for the students and families will improve their future. The educational systems in America have many faults, but if more people become aware, things can only improve. It is hard to make any pinpoint decisions to improve the educational system because it is such a epic problem. I believe as a future teacher, I may be able change things, and with time maybe equal education for everyone won’t be just a far away dream. Bibliography: References Kozol, J.(1991). Life on the Mississippi. In Save inequalities: Children in American’s schools. New York, NY: Harper Perennial Kozol, J.(1991) Other people’s children. In Save inequalities: Children in American’s schools. New York, NY: Harper Perennial Laureau, A(1987) Social class differences in family-school relationships: The importance of cutural capital. Sociology of education, 60, 73-85 MacLeod, J. (1995). Ain’t No Makin’ It: Aspirations and attainment in a low-income neighborhood. Boulder, CO: Westview Press Revised Edition

Sports In Schools

Sports in schools Ellen Reardon 5th hour Blessing May 6, 2014 About 6 million high school boys and girls participate in team sports on the courts, in the pools, on the fields, and in the gyms. The amount of stress caused by sports often is insignificant compared to other sources such as family problems, peer conflicts, school pressures, etc. Sports also helps students learn out to manage with stress.The topic of whether or not schools should keep sports programs has been discussed among many school presentiments over the past few years. Students need sports in school for many reasons. Sports can help with stress, focus, grades, and over all motivation. Keeping sports in schools can help students with a lot more than just getting exercise. Sports are a huge stress reliever for some students. They can distract students from the stress of school and stress from home.By doing this it can clear a student's mind for some time giving them the time to relax ND have fun competing. Sports also can help students build some sort of a reliable and hardworking attitude. Sports teach students to be respectful of their coaches while also teaching a team how to rely on each other. Students learn how to respect not only themselves but other people around them. On the other hand sports do cost a lot of money that the schools could spend on other things like new textbook, computers, or lab equipment.There are also ate night games or meets the may make students get home late and not have the energy to complete assignments. Sports may cost a lot of time and money but they are still important. Those 6 million high school athletes would agree that sports are important in school. There are many reason why sports help student, physically and mentally. They help as a stress reliever, as a distraction from the hard work of school, and they help in building good moral character.

Proper Ways of Getting Student Visa

Proper ways of getting student visa in any country is very difficult but if anyone knows the terms there will be no problem at all. How a student will complete every process in a proper way. Maximum students face some tout people or we can say some tout agencies whose main purpose is to steal money from other and specially they target the poor students most of the time. The student face hoodwinks and lost everything because they didn’t know the proper way. Sometimes they face difficulties like unknown environment, money problem, house problem, college/university problem and etc. So if a student has a good knowledge of getting correct student visa, which is very important. That’s because we are researching on this topic to collect maximum amount of correct and helpful information from different sources. Thesis Statement In our research paper, we are going to discuss about the basic requirements for a student of student visa, different types of process of getting visa, and visa consultant’s suggestions and interviews. We also include the terms and condition of getting visa of some particular country like Australia, UK, Turkey. While applying for a student visa we need to know what the basic requirements of a country are. There are lots of regulations but the basic or core requirements are the same for every country in the world. Education qualification, Additional qualification, Financial solvency are the three basic requirements of a student visa. While collecting information about student visa process we found this type of information from one of chosen person for interview was a Visa secretary and Public Relation Officer of Embassy of the Republic of Turkey, Sk. Haider Ali. He is working there for 24 years and an experience person at visa section. He told us â€Å"To apply for a student visa, the enthusiastic student must know the requirements; those are Education qualification, Additional qualification, Financial solvency. † We search this kind of information in the first step. † So first thing the student’s should remind of, he or she has to be well educated. Then they must provide their education certificates. At first, giving student visa there was few rules which student had to follow, there are still rules but moderated by time by our government. A good who has very good result in his or her educational life, they will have the advantage of apply for the student visa but recently that rule is changed by collaborating both our government and the embassies of the world in our country. The recent rule is that, student can apply but in a range. For example, In German scholarship or student visa, student who have scored 4. 50 in his higher secondary school certificate is the minimum requirement. Above 4. 5 the students can apply. Then they will check the student’s documents and will call for interview for final selection. There they will select the best candidate who will have scholarships or student visa. Actually student of Bangladesh search for scholarship rather than student visa because they can get benefits as a scholarship student. Then the second basic requirement is the additional qualification. Additional qualifications means that the students extra qualities like, different types of certificates, language efficiency, IELTS, TOFEL, GMET, etc. are. Student must have a IELTS or GMET to get scholarship. Different countries ask for different score. For example, Australian Embassy asks 7. 0 as a minimum IELTS score for interested student applied for scholarships. After that, it comes financial solvency. Each and every country and embassy ask for financial solvency because if the student faces some difficulties his/her parents must have enough financial support in case of emergency. This process is mandatory for each and every student who want to apply for student visa or scholarships. For example , one of the Australian Embassy’s policies is that the student’s parents have to show 22 lakh taka in their financial solvency. When a student wants to go abroad for higher study they must know the basic requirements of a student visa. But only knowing them is not enough. They must have to know the proper ways of getting it. The best way to know about any kind of scholarships or student visa availability is to visit the Embassy of the country which a student is willing to go. Then they should ask everything about requirements and other necessary things which will be needed. The steps they will tell the students are the correct. But some cases there are some agencies working with the embassy. Such as USA Embassy, UK Embassy, Italy Embassy and some other Embassies have their registered visa agencies in our country. The students can go there and find important information. Students must come to embassies to collect proper information about this kind of agencies. In this case, students face hoodwinks. For not knowing the correct information they face many problems. Fraud people steal money from them and don’t show after a few days later. So the students first go to the embassy for information, then they should ask about their having any kind of agencies. So students should be careful about this. Going to the embassy directly is the best way but there is another way of getting student visa. The agencies, they are setting a business here. Actually, some of this agencies are authorized by the government. They help the government and the students to get visa. Their job is to provide information about scholarships or student visa and the culture and other important things to the students. They collect passport and other important document from the students and send it to the embassies for visas. After that, they tell the students who get to face an interview and take them to the interview. A agency like BSB Foundation is well known to all by now. They have link to every embassy but they are able to help students sending them to Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan and few other countries in the world. Overseas Student Consoling Services Bangladesh, Atlas Education Consultants and different agencies are also well known in our country. There is another way a student can apply for student visa. Although, a student get to face an interview most of the time when they apply to a university and they invited him/her. Like that, student get the chance to apply before giving interview. The process is simple. Every year the embassies agencies or different countries universities or colleges come to visit Bangladesh and arranged study fair to offer them to visit their universities or colleges for higher study. There student get the most of the advantages. Students are selected their by the faculty members of the offered universities or colleges. Then, they send their documents to the embassy for visa process and they found much easier than other processes. But these kind of fairs arranged very few in our country. Specially USA, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Sweden, Germany, etc. country arrange study fair most of the times. So it is another way of getting visa and it is proper way too. But students who are interested to apply for a student visa, they must know the information very well. The suggestions are simple, if they want to go abroad, they should apply for the scholarships and visit the website of their own chosen universities or colleges. If they want to go on their own money rather than scholarships, they might face so many problems. Student visa has many formalities. Although there are rules and regulations but students face difficulties. Many students don’t get the chance to apply for. It depends on the embassies. Few of the embassy don’t hesitate giving student visa. But most of them don’t want to give because after giving student visa, they go abroad and start business there of their own which is illegal. Because of this reason embassies don’t want to give student visa. They give student visa but not to everyone. As a matter of fact, some agencies are doing this kind of illegal business. They stay near embassies which are very popular are very crowded, they ask every single person. There students got stuck. Because they don’t know they are authorized or not. Then they face hoodwink. Many agencies tell the students that they are legal but ultimately they are not. They provide visas to the students but when they go abroad they don’t find anything they were told that they will find, The students who face hoodwink, they don’t find themselves studying but working for their food. So students must be careful about this kind of situation. They must collect information and solid information. What we are telling is the way and alerting the students how they will face problems. So that, they should be careful about getting visa. But recently that hoodwink is reducing because of our government. They are trying everything to stop because most of the fraud people are from the government. The most effective step was to create the MRP (Machine Readable Passport). For this, a very little chance of facing trouble for the students. In that passport everyone’s information is given by a number. Inputting that number they will see every detail information about a person. For that every embassies are asking the students to bring MRP Passport before visiting embassy. Due to shortage of time and some difficulties we were unable to take interviews. Actually we didn’t get permission to take interviews. But we were able to take an interview. His name is Sk. Haider Ali. He is Visa Secretary & PRO of Embassy of The Republic of Turkey and a experience person at this sector and rules. We ask him, â€Å"Sir, What are the basic requirements you search in students who want to go to your country with student visa? He answered, â€Å"To apply for a student visa, the enthusiastic student must know the requirements, those are Education qualification, Additional qualification, financial solvency. † We search this kind of information in the first step. † Then, â€Å"Do you search any kind of information about the student’s background? † He replied, â€Å"No, we don’t because when a student applies to us they have to bring the certificates of his/her education, they must attach those documents from Education Ministry and Foreign Ministry. If they attached the documents, that means his/her documents or certificates are clear. † We also asked him, â€Å"Can students face difficulties when they will go there to study? If, then what kind of difficulties they might face there? † He again answered, â€Å"Basically who ever go there don’t face many problems. The problems they might face is to cope with the environment because it is new to them, and they might also face food problem and house problem. If they got scholarship then they won’t be facing these problems. â€Å"What kind of suggestion do you want to give to the students who want to get student visa and want to go abroad? † We again asked. â€Å"The main suggestion is that, who ever want to go to abroad they first come to the embassy and ask what will be important and want kind of documents they need to show to us. Another one is that there is a lot of tout people around us, so be careful and be safe from them. If they find you, t hey won’t let you leave without giving them lot of money. † He replied.

Talisman Energy

Talisman Energy Inc. (Talisman) is an independent Canadian oil and gas producer. Talisman is a company that has been through a great deal of criticism due to their negative experience in Sudan in previous years. They were accused of numerous things such as fueling the civil war, believing the Sudanese Government was using oil revenues to purchase weaponry, and of being complicit in human rights abuses because of fees and royalties paid to the government for the rights to explore oil and gas.Now, Talisman is faced with the decision of whether or not they should enter into Kurdistan, knowing that the same thing can happen there as it did in Sudan. The KRG is asking for $220 million in exchange for allowing Talisman to search for oil reserves. Not knowing what the KRG will use the money for, whether it’s to improve economic development or to purchase weaponry creates a dilemma for Talisman. The board of directors had first-hand experience of the damage to Talisman’s reputa tion. With proper due diligence and continuous re-evaluation of the situation in Kurdistan, Talisman should now find it easier to discover political risk and solve problems before they arise.Problem StatementTalisman Energy Inc. has encountered problems in the past when entering into politically unstable markets in other countries. Now they are faced with the decision whether to enter the oil-rich Kurdistan region of Iraq, knowing there are great risks associated with it. If they decide to enter Kurdistan, can they do it without facing the same problems as they did in Sudan?AnalysisTalisman’s interest in pursuing oil exploration in the Kurdistan region of Iraq has been shaped by many factors. First being that Kurdistan is estimated to have 39 million barrels of oil reserves. Second, Talisman was optimistic about the opportunity for foreign oil companies to tap into Iraqi oil now that Saddam Hussein had been defeated. Finally, the Kurdistan area was viewed as significantly saf er than the rest of Iraq. Talisman Energy Inc. is a company who has experience doing business in countries with high political risk. Political risk can be caused by conflict and violence, terrorism and kidnapping, property seizure, policy changes, and local  content requirements (Wild & Wild, International Business, 2012). Corruption sometimes plays a role in international business. See table 1 for the Corruption perception index. The higher the CPI score the less corruptive the country is.Table 1 Corruption Perception Index CountryCPI ScoreFinland9.0 to 10.0 Canada8.0 to 8.9 United States of America7.0 to 7.9 Spain6.0 to 6.9 Hungary5.0 to 5.9 Greece4.0 to 4.9 Mexico3.0 to 3.9 Russia2.0 to 2.9 Iraq1.0 to 1.9Talisman is now faced with the decision of whether or not they should enter into Kurdistan given the uncertainty in such an unstable region. Have they done the proper due diligence to proceed into Iraq. Iraq is a region with high political risk see Exhibit 1 (Wild & Wild, Inter national Business, 2012).Exhibit 1 Political risk around the WorldIn retrospect, should Talisman have gone into Sudan?Talisman made a good decision by entering Sudan. They were aware of the risks but the rewards were potentially high. It was for this reason they took the chance. They were faced with many challenges such as being blamed for influencing the Civil War. Overcoming these challenges only made the company stronger and more knowledgeable for similar future situations. What are the learnings from the Sudan experience?Talisman learned a great deal from the Sudan experience. They established a dedicated Corporate Responsibility Group (CR) in response to the events in Sudan. The CR group have developed Talisman’s CR policies, procedures and  reporting protocols. Over the years, they have included government relations and responsibility for assessing the risks involved in new projects, especially when entering countries that have high political risk. The company has als o added the International Code of Ethics for Canadian Business to its existing corporate code of ethics (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to Enter Iraq, 2009). For more information on how Talisman manages their corporate responsibility see Exhibit 2.Exhibit 2 Talisman managing Corporate Responsibility Their commitment to corporate responsibility is founded in their company values. Their people put these values into action daily. Their dedication to making Talisman a great corporate citizen is built into the policies, systems, procedures and practices they have put in place to keep them improving. Their values include: Safety: Their goal is to create working conditions that cause no harm to people. Passion: They inspire others by the passion they demonstrate in their work. Results: They have a bias for results and take initiative to get things done efficiently, creating value for their shareholders. Respect: They take time to consider and appreciate other people’s points of view and treat the environment with respect.Excellence: They strive for excellence in what they do and how they do it. Teamwork: by working effectively together, they can deliver results far beyond their individual capabilities. Honest communication: They show courage to speak honestly and support others to do the same. How much money can Talisman make by entering Iraq?If the U.S geological survey is correct in estimating Kurdistan to have 39 billion barrels of oil reserves, then Talisman can make an enormous amount of money by entering Kurdistan. The world demand for oil in 2008 is forecast at 87 million barrels per day and the price of oil was US$130 per barrel (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to Enter Iraq, 2009). The profit would be in the trillions. These large figures could cloud ones judgement when making such an important decision as this. The resources are there to generate huge profits but the circumstances they have to go through to do so  will have to be examined. W hat are the costs and benefits for Talisman to enter Iraq?CostsA 220 million dollar payment has to be paid to the Kurdistan Regional Government. Talisman’s entry might be viewed as support for the Kurdistan government as it was in Sudan and as a result there could be opposition form the U.S government, which supports the unity of Iraq and the Iraqi central government. There has yet to be an agreement on revenue sharing (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to Enter Iraq, 2009). This could cause problems between the central government and the Kurdistan Regional government. A decision to enter Iraq could ruin the reputation of the company if the same thing were to happen there as in Sudan. The Iraqi central government controls Iraq’s export pipeline system. Without the ability to export the oil, Talismans oil revenue would be significantly curtailed.Benefits†¢Have access to large amounts of oil reserves. †¢Financial growth resulting in trillions of dollars in pro fit. †¢An opportunity to invest in the region of Kurdistan. †¢An opportunity to increase the company’s overall market share. †¢An increased level of profit as a result of cheaper labour than other business ventures.Discussion of AlternativesThere are some alternatives that may help solve Talisman’s problems. Presented here are some advantages and disadvantages of each as well as how each would affect the company as a whole and the country in which it is conducting business. One alternative would be to become more involved in the country where the business is taking place. A positive image needs to be put forth. Talisman needs to show others that it wants to make a difference in the Kurdistan region. With the $220 million that is to be paid to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), it is possible that Talisman could approach the KRG and make some kind of a deal regarding the use of the money. Hopefully this will ensure that it is used to build affordabl e housing, hospitals, schools, roads, and improve drinking water.This has all been destroyed or damaged by past conflict within the country. The advantage of this action results in proving to others that the money is being spent to  improve economic development in the region of Kurdistan and not to create independence from Iraq. A disadvantage of this would be the actual cost to carry out such an amount of work. Ultimately, it would improve their public image and presence in Kurdistan and hopefully prevent any controversy while being there. Another alternative would be to continually evaluate their position while in Kurdistan. This involves evaluating risk to prevent unexpected risks from occurring or exposure to them. By doing this, Talisman would always be on top of the situation at hand and it will allow them to become more proactive in their presence there. It will also help them to decide to stay or leave at any particular time. An advantage of this would be awareness of the local conditions and political/economic environment.They would re-evaluate the risks on a regular basis. This should prevent them from making the same mistakes as they did in Sudan. A disadvantage of this again would be that it is more costly. In addition, Talisman is risking the chances of another company taking the opportunity to enter the region and gain control of the oil reserves. The end result would be that Talisman would be receiving constant updates on the situation in Kurdistan.RecommendationTalisman Energy Inc. is a company that has had their fair share of problems when dealing with areas involving high political risk, such as Sudan. During their time there, they learned a great deal about risk and what to look for to reduce it to an acceptable level for investment purposes. The best way to reduce risk is too continually evaluate the region in which they are conducting business. With all the experience that Talisman has gained in Sudan they should now have a higher level of knowledge and comfort in doing business in Kurdistan. Talisman should now find it easier to discover political risks in new investment ventures. By completing the proper due diligence and exploration of political, legal, social and human rights issues, they should excel in doing business in the Kurdistan region.One must always remember when conducting business in an area with high political risks come high cost. If Talisman decides to enter Kurdistan it has to make sure that the $220 million dollar payment to the Kurdistan Regional Government is transparent and that it meets the standards of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to  Enter Iraq, 2009). A deal should try and be made with the KRG to ensure that the money be spent on economic development and not on weapons. This would show the people of the region and the world that Talisman wants to help the people of Kurdistan improve their country, while at the same time establish a viable relationship with the region in order to successfully operate its business in the oil industry. Talisman Energy Executive SummaryTalisman Energy Inc. (Talisman) is an independent Canadian oil and gas producer. Talisman is a company that has been through a great deal of criticism due to their negative experience in Sudan in previous years. They were accused of numerous things such as fueling the civil war, believing the Sudanese Government was using oil revenues to purchase weaponry, and of being complicit in human rights abuses because of fees and royalties paid to the government for the rights to explore oil and gas.Now, Talisman is faced with the decision of whether or not they should enter into Kurdistan, knowing that the same thing can happen there as it did in Sudan. The KRG is asking for $220 million in exchange for allowing Talisman to search for oil reserves. Not knowing what the KRG will use the money for, whether it’s to improve economic development or to purchase weaponry creates a dilemma for Talisman. The board of directors had first-hand experience of the damage to Talisma n’s reputation. With proper due diligence and continuous re-evaluation of the situation in Kurdistan, Talisman should now find it easier to discover political risk and solve problems before they arise.Problem StatementTalisman Energy Inc. has encountered problems in the past when entering into politically unstable markets in other countries. Now they are faced with the decision whether to enter the oil-rich Kurdistan region of Iraq, knowing there are great risks associated with it. If they decide to enter Kurdistan, can they do it without facing the same problems as they did in Sudan? AnalysisTalisman’s interest in pursuing oil exploration in the Kurdistan region of Iraq has been shaped by many factors. First being that Kurdistan is estimated to have 39 million barrels of oil reserves. Second, Talisman was optimistic about the opportunity for foreign oil companies to tap into Iraqi oil now that Saddam Hussein had been defeated. Finally, the Kurdistan area was viewed as significantly safer than the rest of Iraq.Talisman Energy Inc. is a company who has experience doing business in countries with high political risk. Political risk can be caused by conflict and violence, terrorism and kidnapping, property seizure, policy changes, and local  content requirements (Wild & Wild, International Business, 2012). Corruption sometimes plays a role in international business. See table 1 for the Corruption perception index. The higher the CPI score the less corruptive the country is.Table 1 Corruption Perception Index Country CPI ScoreFinland9.0 to 10.0 Canada8.0 to 8.9 United States of America7.0 to 7.9 Spain6.0 to 6.9 Hungary5.0 to 5.9 Greece4.0 to 4.9 Mexico3.0 to 3.9 Russia2.0 to 2.9 Iraq1.0 to 1.9Talisman is now faced with the decision of whether or not they should enter into Kurdistan given the uncertainty in such an unstable region. Have they done the proper due diligence to proceed into Iraq. Iraq is a region with high political risk see Exhibit 1 ( Wild & Wild, International Business, 2012). Exhibit 1 Political risk around the World)In retrospect, should Talisman have gone into Sudan?Talisman made a good decision by entering Sudan. They were aware of the risks but the rewards were potentially high. It was for this reason they took the chance. They were faced with many challenges such as being blamed for influencing the Civil War. Overcoming these challenges only made the company stronger and more knowledgeable for similar future situations. What are the learnings from the Sudan experience?Talisman learned a great deal from the Sudan experience. They established a dedicated Corporate Responsibility Group (CR) in response to the events in Sudan. The CR group have developed Talisman’s CR policies, procedures and  reporting protocols. Over the years, they have included government relations and responsibility for assessing the risks involved in new projects, especially when entering countries that have high political risk. The company has also added the International Code of Ethics for Canadian Business to its existing corporate code of ethics (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to Enter Iraq, 2009).For more information on how Talisman manages their corporate responsibility see Exhibit 2. Exhibit 2 Talisman managing Corporate Responsibility Their commitment to corporate responsibility is founded in their company values. Their people put these values into action daily. Their dedication to making Talisman a great corporate citizen is built into the policies, systems, procedures and practices they have put in place to keep them improving. Their values include: Safety: Their goal is to create working conditions that cause no harm to people.Passion: They inspire others by the passion they demonstrate in their work. Results: They have a bias for results and take initiative to get things done efficiently, creating value for their shareholders. Respect: They take time to consider and appreciate other peopleà ¢â‚¬â„¢s points of view and treat the environment with respect. Excellence: They strive for excellence in what they do and how they do it. Teamwork: by working effectively together, they can deliver results far beyond their individual capabilities. Honest communication: They show courage to speak honestly and support others to do the same. How much money can Talisman make by entering Iraq?If the U.S geological survey is correct in estimating Kurdistan to have 39 billion barrels of oil reserves, then Talisman can make an enormous amount of money by entering Kurdistan. The world demand for oil in 2008 is forecast at 87 million barrels per day and the price of oil was US$130 per barrel (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to Enter Iraq, 2009). The profit would be in the trillions. These large figures could cloud ones judgement when making such an important decision as this. The resources are there to generate huge profits but the circumstances they have to go through to do so  will ha ve to be examined. What are the costs and benefits for Talisman to enter Iraq?CostsA 220 million dollar payment has to be paid to the Kurdistan Regional Government. Talisman’s entry might be viewed as support for the Kurdistan government as it was in Sudan and as a result there could be opposition form the U.S government, which supports the unity of Iraq and the Iraqi central government. There has yet to be an agreement on revenue sharing (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to Enter Iraq, 2009). This could cause problems between the central government and the Kurdistan Regional government. A decision to enter Iraq could ruin the reputation of the company if the same thing were to happen there as in Sudan. The Iraqi central government controls Iraq’s export pipeline system. Without the ability to export the oil, Talismans oil revenue would be significantly curtailed.Benefits†¢Have access to large amounts of oil reserves. †¢Financial growth resulting in trillio ns of dollars in profit. †¢An opportunity to invest in the region of Kurdistan. †¢An opportunity to increase the company’s overall market share. †¢An increased level of profit as a result of cheaper labour than other business ventures. Discussion of AlternativesThere are some alternatives that may help solve Talisman’s problems. Presented here are some advantages and disadvantages of each as well as how each would affect the company as a whole and the country in which it is conducting business. One alternative would be to become more involved in the country where the business is taking place. A positive image needs to be put forth. Talisman needs to show others that it wants to make a difference in the Kurdistan region. With the $220 million that is to be paid to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), it is possible that Talisman could approach the KRG and make some kind of a deal regarding the use of the money.Hopefully this will ensure that it is use d to build affordable housing, hospitals, schools, roads, and improve drinking water. This has all been destroyed or damaged by past conflict within the country. The advantage of this action results in proving to others that the money is being spent to  improve economic development in the region of Kurdistan and not to create independence from Iraq. A disadvantage of this would be the actual cost to carry out such an amount of work. Ultimately, it would improve their public image and presence in Kurdistan and hopefully prevent any controversy while being there. Another alternative would be to continually evaluate their position while in Kurdistan.This involves evaluating risk to prevent unexpected risks from occurring or exposure to them. By doing this, Talisman would always be on top of the situation at hand and it will allow them to become more proactive in their presence there. It will also help them to decide to stay or leave at any particular time. An advantage of this would be awareness of the local conditions and political/economic environment. They would re-evaluate the risks on a regular basis.This should prevent them from making the same mistakes as they did in Sudan. A disadvantage of this again would be that it is more costly. In addition, Talisman is risking the chances of another company taking the opportunity to enter the region and gain control of the oil reserves. The end result would be that Talisman would be receiving constant updates on the situation in Kurdistan.RecommendationTalisman Energy Inc. is a company that has had their fair share of problems when dealing with areas involving high political risk, such as Sudan. During their time there, they learned a great deal about risk and what to look for to reduce it to an acceptable level for investment purposes. The best way to reduce risk is too continually evaluate the region in which they are conducting business. With all the experience that Talisman has gained in Sudan they should now have a higher level of knowledge and comfort in doing business in Kurdistan.Talisman should now find it easier to discover political risks in new investment ventures. By completing the proper due diligence and exploration of political, legal, social and human rights issues, they should excel in doing business in the Kurdistan region. One must always remember when conducting business in an area with high political risks come high cost. If Talisman decides to enter Kurdistan it has to make sure that the $220 million dollar payment to the Kurdistan Regional Government is transparent and that it meets the standards of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (Talisman Energy Inc.: The Decision to