Wednesday, July 31, 2019
Opression in a Thousand Splendid Suns Essay
Taslima Nasrin once said: â€Å"Those religions that are oppressive to women are also against democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression. †This quote also applies to a book called a thousand splendid suns by Khaled hosseini and Deepa Metha’s Film Water. A thousand splendid suns in a book about two women in Afghanistan with an abusive husband. They struggle for survival and for their human rights that have been overlooked by the Taliban and a patriarchal society. Water is a movie about widows living in India. They are sent to the country side to live with other widows supposedly so they can live pure lives. In actuality they are cast aside and denied the basic respect all humans deserve. Ironically, the only way they can make enough money to survive is by committing acts as impure as it gets. They are forced to turn to prostitution. These two stories show that a cultural society’s refusal to change religious practices causes the oppression of women. The characters Mariam, kalyani, and chuyia demonstrate this. Mariam is a woman living in Afghanistan from the book A Thousand Splendid Suns. Mariam grew up very poor living in a small hut excluded from society. As a child she was taught only to endure and was never given the opportunity to stand up for herself. Mariam was the daughter of a maid that her father Jalil had an affair with and he was very ashamed of this. To solve this â€Å"problem†he got rid of her. Jalil married her off to a much older man named Rasheed. Shortly after the start of their marriage, Rasheed rapes her. He justifies it with the Quran. â€Å"‘It’s what married people do. It’s what the prophet himself and his wives did. There is no shame. ’†(Hosseini, 77). In this quote Rasheed refers to the prophet Muhammad in the Quran. This shows how Rasheed perverted the events Quran, the sacred Islamic text, to justify the rape of a young girl who hadn’t even turned 16. Marrying young girls still in their teens is an old custom that is embedded in Islam and the Afghan culture. Society’s refusal to change this practice caused the ruthless humiliation of a young girl and in the long run made the oppression of all women an accepted practice. Kalyani is a character in the movie Water. She is a widow most likely in her 20s who never met her husband. Her husband died shortly after her marriage and was sent to the ashram as a young girl. Since she is the only young widow in the ashram she is forced to turn to prostitution to bring in extra money so the widows can at least have enough money for 1 meal a day. Her entire life story shows the subjugation of women. She was married at around the age of 10 because of religious traditions that have not changed in hundreds of years. This tradition has given men the power to oppress women. This oppression is shown through the death of the husband. If the husband dies before the wife, the wife is sent away. If the opposite happen the husband is free to remarry as he pleases. This happens because of the religious belief that when a husband dies, half of the woman also dies. This makes it easier to mistreat women because it makes them seem less than human. It is also believed that the death of a husband is punishment for something done in a previous life. Society’s refusal to change theses Hindi beliefs and practices create the oppression of women by making their mistreatment seem justified and by making them seem less than human. Chuyia is a young girl who was married at the age of 8 and was widowed the next day. She doesn’t even remember getting married but is forced to suffer the same fate as Kalyani. She is young and innocent and her innocence causes her to question practices that everyone else simply accepts. Deepa Metha uses this character to point out inconsistencies in the Hindi religion and traditional society. At one point in the story she asks why there isn’t a place for men to go if they are widowed. She is quickly ridiculed by both men and women. This event shows that the refusal to change religious practices has brainwashed both men and women to accept and even endorse the oppression of women. Taslima Nasrin words are clearly tied to the theme of these two stories. She explains in her quote that a religion cannot be providing people basic rights if it discriminates against women. The theme reiterates the same message by declaring that religion can sometimes cause oppression of women. These three characters show how traditions and old religious practices have made the oppression of women possible all over the world. By displaying this message in the authors’ books and movies, the authors hope to encourage all people around the world to not follow blindly old traditions and practices. They want people to decide for themselves what is right and what is wrong. When people fail to do this, bad things start happening such as the oppression, humiliation, and subjugation of women who are actually just as intelligent, strong, and able as any man.
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
Information Technology and Health Care Essay
Overview of current and emerging information technology systems and devices that are commonly used by healthcare organizations The utilization of information technology systems and devices in all areas of the work place is expanding. With the advent of the microcomputer, computer use has spread to all areas of work including healthcare organizations. Computer systems in health care facilities today may encompass a network of microcomputers in the future. A primary use of computers in health care is for the documentation of the patient’s data. Today, computer programs that are designed to create patient records abound. These programs allow input of admission data, recording of nursing progress records, development of nursing care plans (both standardized and individualized), documentation of patient teaching completed, scheduling of patients, recording of dietary intake and documentation of medication orders and administration. Some programs are so complete that they have virtually replaced the standard patient chart. The advent of information technology springs from the idea that information superhighway is made available to all people from all walks of life. All sorts of information are made accessible at the tip of one’s fingers and can be retrieved in a short period of time through the amazing Internet technology, computerized or electronically processed data system. What used to be data, like records or public documents, gathered for weeks or days can now be obtained in minutes or seconds. What used to be information for selected or privileged few intellectuals are now exposed to the public regardless of state, race, ethnical culture, sex or status, not to mention a few restricted information that are confined to certain age levels, or those that are sensitive to security and privacy (Winkler 1997). Potential risks and constraints associated with each of these technology systems 1. The Assessment Process The Assessment process in a healthcare system is highly confidential. All patients have the right to confidentiality. Patient care information such as diagnosis, prognosis and care plans should be kept secret to those not concerned with the patient’s condition. Only authorized individuals should have access to information about a patient.   Medical records must be kept in a secure place where only those authorized to have access can obtain the records. The patient has a right to access his or her own record, and only by obtaining the patient’s permission can records or information be released to others. Agencies are required by state, federal and accrediting rules to have policies by the nurse periodically followed. However, there are potential risks associated with these new technology systems especially in the assessment area. If a smart agent works with a patient in conducting on-line assessment through a wireless phone device, then a potential risk here would be the improper assessment due to a wrong registration of the patient’s voice even if coded repetitively (Dertouzos & Gerschenfeld as qtd in Skiba and Cohen 2003). In the same manner, a constraint here would involve extracting information from the encounter. It is important to remember that the transaction cannot be completed without at least some exchange of intelligence between the patient and another person. These digital systems that collect, analyze and respond to client condition can assess wrongly any information initially given. Even if they are rarely down or suboptimal, still, a patient’s life cannot be entrusted to a technology system no matter how smart it may be. The Assessment process still is an important stage in any healthcare system that needs personal analysis and evaluation. Thus, a foreseeable constraint here is the fact that people may not really use it readily since they would still prefer someone with whom they could talk to in a more relaxed manner.  Leaving the assessment part to any device is not that reliable because it can still malfunction and give a wrong assessment that can send a distressed patient in a more distressed state. The seamless voice recognition may capture the wrong data. Even if the human computer interface uses natural language structure, there is a possibility that the human computer will not know the underlying codification structure (Dertouzos & Gerschenfeld as qtd in Skiba and Cohen 2003). This is the probably constraint that may interfere with the successful implementation of each system. 2. Communications Technology Systems In the area of Communications, being primarily electronic and multidimensional will be a great leap in the future when one can easily communicate with health care professionals using both synchronous and asynchronous communication. (Skiba & Cohen, 2003). According to researches, there are more than 100 nations that are currently engaged in espionage against US companied. Distinctions between global and local are now slowly being eradicated. Company shifts industrial boundaries from the static to the dynamic. The result is global competition of a uniquely unpredictable nature. Enterprises that previously worked hand in hand in different areas may now find themselves at odds with each other, even spying on each other. Since millions of information is readily accessed nowadays, the possibility of disseminating mixed-up, false or misleading information is high. This can be dangerous when used and relied upon for legitimate purposes. Moreover, some information and data need to be protected and if allowed for public consumption, the parties concerned have to ensure that the information must be updated, reliable and truthful before they are released to the public. The credibility and integrity are at stake at all times if their data are found to be scrupulous, unreliable, and erroneous. Similarly, data bank sources or data controllers must take possible measures to protect the personal data that they are held accountable in viewing such information for unlawful, harmful and questionable purposes (Skiba & Cohen, 2003). 3. Monitoring process Future gadgets in monitoring for the healthcare system will be state-of –the-art such that smart devices will then be attached to one’s personal Bodynet. This is the term used for the personal network coordinating the devices and both transmit and receive information within the premises of the hospital. It can even be hooked up such that these monitoring devices can reach until the homes of these patients. There will be such a thing as ubiquitous monitoring such that lifestyle factors are monitored too. Even the amount of food in a refrigerator can be monitored making all behaviors and actions available for monitoring purposes. (Skiba & Cohen 2003). Since monitoring can extend beyond hospital walls, the likelihood of information being transferred from one data source to another is highly possible. Smart devices that automatically monitor a patient’s electronic record can provide wrong electronic records. A possible constraint here is the refusal of parties to avail of such devices since it can be restricting. Devices may be available but only the agreeable parties will readily avail of it. Besides, it can be prohibitive in price. The focal point of good risk management is the identification and treatment of these risks, an integral component of any organization’s strategic management. In a healthcare system set-up, the monitoring process can run awry if the devices used in attachments are improperly done. (Stoneburner, G. et al). IT security practitioners assigned to healthcare systems are responsible for proper implementation of security requirements in their IT systems especially in the monitoring process. As changes occur in the existing IT system environment, the IT security practitioners must support or use the risk management process to identify and assess new potential risks and implement new security controls as required to safeguard their IT systems. According to Pamela Matthews, conducting these efficient management researches for the results of patients test will prove to be very helpful in coming up with an effective and technologically advanced solutions that would be the answer to treatment. Conclusion In the final analysis, informatization streamlines troubleshooting of complex systems. Technology today is embedded in and around products in ways that facilitate a steady stream of information about medical transactions and the use to which products and services are put. It is essential that a balance be done on both technology and the health care system where most people prefer a more caring and personalized method. REFERENCES Dertouzos, M. (1998). What will be: How the new world of information will change our lives. New York: HarperEdge. (context link from Skiba & Cohen) Gerschenfeld, N. (2000). When things start to think. New York: Henry Holt & Co. (context link from Skiba & Cohen) Matthews, P. (2000). Leveraging Technology for Success. Journal of Healthcare Information Management Vol. 14 No. 2 . Retrieved Sept. 11, 2006 from http://www.himss.org/asp/ContentRedirector.asp?ContentID=749
Monday, July 29, 2019
Business versus Environment Essay Example for Free
Business versus Environment Essay Businesses would always want to make more profit but this should be accomplished while also taking into account its social responsibilities. In the long run, there is an aggregate need for business entities to balance between profit and the adverse effects the business causes to the environment in its natural course of operations. Choosing not to consider the social and environmental costs associated with the business will result in less spending for operations but this in turn may affect the survivability of the business entity.            Many businessmen executives have realized that aggressive environmental programs result in profitability and competitiveness by reducing risks and avoiding additional costs from regulatory compliance programs. Environmental initiatives has its benefits for a business. It acts as morale and productivity boosters for the workers, enhanced brand image, streamline time-to-market and improved relations with regulators and the community. It is now understandable that an understanding of socio-economic, political and cultural processes and structures is necessary to understand environmental problems and in order to establish sustainable development.[1]            It cannot be denied that through the course of its operations, business does affect the environment in many ways such as pollution and introduction of new chemical compounds which may prove harmful to people or the environment, genetic engineering and others. How a business affects the environment may be deliberate or accidental but there are also some businesses that improve the quality of the environment.[2]            To cite, all countries are very much dependent on the oil industry and the industry is essential in any kind of economy. It produces huge amounts of profit for oil producing countries while non-oil producing countries have showed dependence on oil because of the need to run vehicles or to fuel industries. But with the production of oil also stems a need to provide funding to numerous environmental concerns that arise with it.            An oil spill is just one of the risks associated with the oil industries. It is a grave threat to the marine ecosystem and also to the people living near the coastline who depend on the marine resources for their food and income. In an oil spill near the coast of Guimaras Islands in the Philippines, one of the oil tankers of Petron carrying millions of liters of oil sank to the bottom of the sea floor. The incident was the worst oil spill in the country which affected the 40,000 people living on the island who are mostly dependent on the sea. Guimaras Governor Joaquin Nava was frustrated over the absence of commitment from the government sector and Petron to solve the oil spill. Greenpeace on the other hand has much fear that the remaining 1.9 million liters of oil inside the sunken tanker will cause more damage when released into the sea. There was public demand that Petron immediately raise the sunken tanker to prevent more oil spillage or to pump out the remaining oil from its tanks. Relief operations were also needed to compensate for the people of Guimaras Islands because of the loss of livelihood. Greenpeace urged that the local government should hold the oil company liable and that it should be accountable for the long-term rehabilitation of the affected areas including the marine sanctuaries, mangrove areas, reefs and coral ecosystems.[3]            The situation urged Petron to perform its social responsibility for the disaster or it would face charges from environmentalist groups or other consequences such as banning their products or paying fines if proven guilty when the case is brought to the court of law. Taking responsibility for the environmental hazards will even give the company a better image that it cares not only for profit but also gives importance to its social responsibilities. The business should see that environmental concerns could turn into an instant marketing opportunity.[4] Instead of having bad effects, this could make the people patronize their products and instead of adding more cost, it would add more benefit.            Environmental degradation, although the more devastating effect, is not the only concern brought about by oil spills. Fishermen are the ones that are greatly affected by such disasters because the fish are being killed. Oil spills also results in the ban of catching and selling fish and shellfish from the contaminated area to maintain market confidence and to protect fishing gear. Other industries that rely on seawater in their course of operations are mainly affected by oil spills. These may include hotel and restaurants that rely on tourist trade or water treatment plants.[5]            On the other hand, Transneft, an oil transporting joint stock company initiated the Baltic Pipeline System project which would would help in securing the safety of the environment through this pipeline system and also add a new transport route for Russian oil which is greatly needed. The system aims to minimize the negative impact of oil on the environment. The project is believed to be one of the most excellent projects in the history of Russia. In an ecological assessment of the construction of the Baltic Pipeline System, it was found out that the project complies with the environmental norms.[6] This action proves that safety measures can be done to ensure environment safety while also taking into account the needs of the economy.            Companies do affect people the same way that people affect the companies. Almost all countries have been dependent on oil and oil exporting countries have been gaining a lot of income from this. People rely on oil to fuel vehicles, run heavy machinery and others. The escalating prices of oil have urged many countries to find other sources of energy such as biofuels. This somehow reduced the dependence of mankind on oil.            A reduced dependency on foreign oil leads to economic problems for the oil producing countries. Low oil prices are good for oil consumers because it means less spending for petroleum products but this has adverse effects on oil producers such as the countries in the Middle East which is reflected in the performance of the economy.[7]  On the other hand, effects of rising oil prices can be seen when the US experienced oil shortages in 1973 and 1979. During these instances, the US reacted harshly and its citizens even get into fights at gasoline stations until an effort to conserve oil was established by the president.[8]            Oil companies are expected by the the people to take responsibility for any environmental hazards caused by the company. One example is Shell Oil which has initiated and participated in many environment and social campaigns. However, the company still faces a lot of accusations that it still contributing greatly in the destruction of the environment and its refineries, depots and pipelines threaten human civilization.[9]            A report states that Shell has been overstating its social and environmental performance and despite of adhering to its public commitment which is sustainable development, Shell has been putting the environment in much more trouble.[10] The report shows scenarios from different countries wherein Shell allegedly does not address social and environmental problems caused by faulty pipelines and others instead of going by its adherence to environment safety and sustainable development.            In Canada, Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn explains that there should be a balance between the environment and economic growth. He also said that the two are intertwined. He agreed that the solution to address the needs of the environment is balancing the its needs with the needs of the industry. He also emphasized the production of clean energy technology such as tidal energy. Other environment-friendly projects that Canada would pursue are development of clean coal, improvement of biofuel technology and technology that would reduce green house gases emissions and pollution.[11]            Logging is another industry that greatly affects the environment. It is very harmful to the environment especially illegal logging. The loss of many trees result in many adverse effects such as the loss of habitat for many special of mammals, birds and other animals. It also contributes to global warming and other natural disaster such as flash floods and land slides.            In the Philippines, illegal logging was a major factor in the loss of lives due to flash floods and even land slides during the rainy season particularly in the provinces of Quezon, Nueva Ecija and Aurora. Government hydrologist Richard Orendain said that it may be hard to determine whether floods may be attributed to illegal logging or just because of heavy rainfall although it is safe to assume that illegal logging has in a way contributed to the natural disasters while Vice President Noli de Castro directly blamed illegal for floods and other past cases of flash floods and land slides.[12]            In Indonesia, many people rely on the forests for their source of livelihood. According to Edward Pollard from the Galung Palung National Park, illegal logging is the major industry in the region. It is the main source of income for many citizens. However, despite economic gains from timber companies, the entire community does not receive much benefit with the diminishing resource. Illegal loggers constitute to a large decrease in forest resources and no taxes are being paid to fund development projects for the citizens. People who work as loggers usually come from poor families and logging is not a permanent and a stable source of income and with the rate of the depletion of the forest resources, people will have to find other sources of income in the future.[13]            Indonesia has been plagued by illegal logging particularly caused by poverty and corruption. The exploitation of the natural resources was a vital factor in the economic development of the region but the government does not reap all the gains because of illegal loggers that contribute greatly to the depletion of natural resources but do not pay the necessary taxes which could have been used to fund various environmental problems.[14]            Loggers should be responsible enough to aid environment because this is where they get their income. The rapid loss of forest resources which contributes greatly to global warming and loss of biodiversity would also affect the loggers. Instead of clear logging in which all the trees are being cut down in an area, loggers can resort to selective logging which is much less harmful and would give the forest time to recuperate.            In the end, there is a strong need for businesses to balance between their income and social and environmental responsibilities. It may not seem beneficial and actually results in more spending for the company. However, taking to account the social and environmental responsibilities of the business would prove beneficial in the long course of business operations. Just like in the logging business, taking aggregate measures to avoid total destruction of forest resources will ascertain that the business will not run out of available resources. Likewise, oil production, which is associated with many adverse effects to the environment, may still choose to have an environment-friendly image which could boost its marketing drive. These additional costs should not be considered as expenses but rather as investments. Al Marashi, Habiba, Business vs. Environment, March 19, 2002, Retrieved 23 March 2008 from            http://www.dqg.org/qcentral/dqg_events/seminars/mar02/business.asp Petron oil spill affected 40,000 people says Governor, InfoShop News, 2006 Retrieved 23 March 2008,            from http://www.infoshop.org/inews/article.php?story=2006082101433380 Economic Impacts, The International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited, 2007, Retrieved     March 23, 2006, from http://www.itopf.com/marine%2Dspills/effects/economic%2Dimpacts/ Baltic Pipeline System, Transneft, 2002, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from            http://www.transneft.ru/Ecolog/Default.asp?LANG=EN&ID=219 Koepp, Stephen, Oil Prices, April 1986, Time Magazine, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from            http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,961087-1,00.html Refinery Reform/Global Community Monitor/Friends of the Earth, Behind the shine – the real impacts of Shell’s work around the world, June 23, 2004, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from            http://www.refineryreform.org/PR_062304.html Behind the shine: The other Shell Report 2003, 2003, p.2, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from            http://www.refineryreform.org/downloads/shellreport_behindtheshine.pdf Barlow, John , Tories want balance in environment and economy, June 30, 2007. Vol. 32 No. 44,            Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.westernwheel.com/070606/news-tories%20want    %20balance.htm Terra Daily, Illegal logging a major factor in flood devastation of Philippines, December 1, 2004,            Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.terradaily.com/2004/041201072557.jj82upor.html The Timber Mafia, Consequences of Illegal Logging: Environmental Implications, 2002, Retrieved       24 March 2008, from http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2002/timber_mafia/resources/ [1]  Al Marashi, Habiba, Business vs. Environment, March 19, 2002, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.dqg.org/qcentral/dqg_events/seminars/mar02/business.asp [3]   P etron oil spill affected 40,000 people says Governor, InfoShop News, 2006, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.infoshop.org/inews/article.php?story=2006082101433380 [5]   Economic Impacts, The International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited , 2007, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.itopf.com/marine%2Dspills/effects/economic%2Dimpacts/ [6]          Baltic Pipeline System, Transneft, 2002, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from            http://www.transneft.ru/Ecolog/Default.asp?LANG=EN&ID=219 [7]  Koepp, Stephen, Oil Prices, April 1986, Time Magazine, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,961087-1,00.html [9]  Refinery Reform/Global Community Monitor/Friends of the Earth, Behind the shine – the real impacts of Shell’s work around the world, June 23, 2004, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.refineryreform.org/PR_062304.html [10] Behind the shine: The other Shell Report 2003, 2003, p.2, Retrieved 23 March 2008, from http://www.refineryreform.org/downloads/shellreport_behindtheshine.pdf [11] Barlow, John, Tories want balance in environment and economy, June 30, 2007. Vol. 32 No. 44, Retrieved 23 March 2008 from http://www.westernwheel.com/070606/news-tories%20want%20balance.htm [ 1 2] Terra Daily, Illegal logging a major factor in flood devastation of Philippines, December 1, 2004, Retrieved 23 March 2008 from http://www.terradaily.com/2004/041201072557.jj82upor.html [13] The Timber Mafia, Consequences of Illegal Logging: Environmental Implications, 2002, Retrieved 24 March 2008, from http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2002/timber_mafia/resources/ Business versus Environment. (2017, Mar 26).
U.S. Policy regarding the South China Sea (SCS) Essay
U.S. Policy regarding the South China Sea (SCS) - Essay Example The tensions are influencing – being influenced by- rising fears concerning China military power growth as well as its regional intents. China has engaged in an extensive upgrading of its forces of maritime paramilitary and naval aptitudes to impose jurisdiction and Sovereignty rights through force if the need arises. Simultaneously, China is developing capabilities, which would place US forces within the expanse in a conflict risk, and therefore, possibly refuting US Navy access in the west Pacific (Akande). In view of the growing prominence of China-U.S. affiliation as well as the Asia-Pacific expanse more largely, to the worldwide economy, the U.S. has a huge interest in inhibiting any of the numerous disputes within the South China Sea from intensifying militarily. U.S. policy goals include: I. Attainment of global norms and rules in the South China Sea, II. Attainment of regional stability and alliance security in the South China Sea, III. Attainment of economic interests and IV. Attaining a cooperative affiliation with China V. Promote Territorial Risk-reduction Measures Assessment of Current U.S. Policy Goals The U.S. has crucial interests for achieving a diplomatic resolution of disputes in South China Sea with respect to international law. With China’s exception, all South China Sea’s claimants have tried to validate their entitlements grounded on their coastlines as well as the UNCLOS’s provisions. China, on the other hand, depends on a combination of legal claims and historic rights, while remaining purposely indistinct about the implication of the ‘nine-dashed line’ all over the sea, which is drawn upon Chinese maps. The failure of the U.S. to maintain international norms and law could harm United States’ interests elsewhere within the region as well as beyond. Guaranteeing navigation freedom is another critical goal for the US as well as other regional states. As much as China maintains that, it advoc ates navigation freedom; its persistence that foreign forces seek advance authorization to cruise in its EEZ hurls doubt upon its stance. The China’s capabilities development to deny US’ naval entry to its waters in a dispute provides proof of likely Chinese intents to block navigation freedom in particular contingencies (Akande). Regional and alliance security: United States friends and allies around Southern China Sea depend on U.S. to sustain free trade, secure and safe sea communication lines and general stability and tranquility within the region. Non-claimants and claimants to marine waters and land features within the South China Sea take U.S. forces presence as essential to permit decision-formulating free of extortion. If states within the South China Sea lack self-assurance in the U.S. to aid as the major regional security underwriter, they could engage in costly and possibly threatening arms accumulations to reimburse or, otherwise, become more cooperative t o the requests of an influential China. None would be within the United States’ policy goals. Failure to assure friends of U.S. responsibilities within the expanse could also weaken U.S. security assurances in the wider Asia-Pacific area, particularly with South Korea and Japan. Simultaneously, however, the US must elude being enticed into the regional disputeâ€â€and perhaps into a clashâ€â€by regional states who seek United States’ backing to legalize their claims (Nato). Economic
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Smokers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
Smokers - Essay Example The government has a mandate of protecting its people. Young generation holds the future of these countries on their hands. As a result, every administration has a responsibility of protecting this generation. In an attempt to protect the whole population, these governments have come up with several measures that are aimed at reducing the exposure of the people to this kind of smoke (Callinan, Clarke & Kelleher 2010) The number of smokers in these countries is smaller compared to non-smokers. As a result, the governments are protecting the majority of the population through developing various strategies that will reduce the impact of cigarette smoke on the people. The smokers should stay outside the homes, restaurants and shops until they finish their activities. Although this will viewed as a way of segregating the smokers from the rest of the society, the move will play a significant role in preventing the younger generation from adopting the smoking behavior. Furthermore, it will protect the members of the public from the cigarette smoke. Some people are allergic to smoke (Great Britain, 2005). As a result, the government should create designated places where smokers can congregate and smoke freely without the fear of disturbing other people. This should be followed by strict rules and stiff penalties to all those who violates these laws. This is to ensure that bus stops, government buildings, social places, and the streets are safe for the people. Smoking in the open disturbs children and seniors. Many adapt this behavior because they feel that it is the right thing to do. Therefore, excluding the smokers to a particular place and making them pay for their behavior by staying away from other people while smoking will discourage the young people to stay away from the smoking behavior. The UK and US governments have implemented some of these measures, an aspect that has not augured well with the smokers. This is because they feel that the
Saturday, July 27, 2019
The Implementation of the Critical Success Factors Case Study
The Implementation of the Critical Success Factors - Case Study Example After original implementation, a stabilization stage happens when implementation challenges are predetermined and organizational performance gets better. Ross comments that nearly all organizations stay in the stabilization stage for many months and occasionally years. The constant improvement of the procedure follows and lastly major process transformation is facilitated. Few organizations get to the transformation stage even though most prepare to. Ross observes that big ERP system implementations might engage different series through the procedure model for every separate unit in the ERP system. In another case study, Markus and Tanis designed a four-stage ERP implementation procedure model. The stages are chartering, plan, shakedown, and onward and upward. The chartering stage comprises expansion of the business case, the assortment of the ERP package, classification of a project executive, and endorsement of the financial plan and to-do list. The project and shakedown stages are very alike to the implementation and stabilization stage in the Ross model above. The onward and upward stage entails the continuous business development and transformation consequent to the very last two stages of Ross’s model. Environmental and cultural issues play a significant part in the ERP implementation achievement.Without a doubt, ERPs have also shown challenging to put into practice, even in Western organizations, frequently due to an underrated requirement for change management and the relocation of roles and their significance for actors. Most organizational practices are subjective not only by societal features but as well as by the reflections suitable within an organizational sector, public or private. Private organizations are different from public organizations at three separate levels.
Friday, July 26, 2019
Corporate Computing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words
Corporate Computing - Essay Example The process may take ages to unfold, but the technological advancement is already taking place. Virtualization, Web services and grid computing are three advances 'which are of considerable significance', though their importance has frequently been hidden by the arcane terms used to explain them.Virtualization erases the variations involving proprietary computing platforms, hence enabling applications intended to run on one working scheme to be deployed in a different place. Web services regulate the interfaces connecting applications, whirling them into modules that can be assembled and disassembled simply.  Grid computing enables large information of hardware mechanism such as disk drivers or servers to successfully act as a sole device, pooling their capability and allocating it mechanically to diverse jobs. In diverse ways, the three technologies play a function parallel to that of the untimely recent converters. They make possible a vast, compactly incorporated system to b e constructed out of assorted and formerly irreconcilable components. Independently, the three technologies are remarkable; however, collective they become innovative.The need for utility services has forced some companies to connect their old hardware and software into traditional data centers. Certainly, firms frequently forgo if not striking utility services or run into difficulties with outsourcing planning since the necessary incorporation with their bequest systems is so complicated.
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Workshop report 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
Workshop report 3 - Essay Example ining information from the collected is the science and art of statistics, empirical research is statistical reasoning, for this reasons, researchers from different fields are trained in for the application, confidence intervals, significance probabilities, hypothesis tests, or posterior probability distributions. Some ethical considerations were also discussed while conducting surveys. Solution to the problem is of statistical methods in research. The present study is based on the scientific survey of sampling method and the sampling type is random sampling widely used for population sampling studies (2,8). In the present study methodology that was adopted for the experiment and the ethical considerations for surveying were discussed. The methodology comprises collecting the data, analysing the data, and obtaining results and conclusions from the data. In the surveys where random sampling method is adopted, a particular criteria is adopted for selection, under this criteria different groups are selected for the same parameter, and by lottery procedure, a member is selected from each group for testing. This is the probability sampling method where the controversy on the selection procedure is less, the balance between the sampling frame and the population will be good by this procedure (3), (4). (5) A good designed experiment gives an idea of how, one variable responds to the changes in other variable in the controlled conditions of the experiment. While investigating the possibility of cause and effect relationship, the variable that is responsible for the effect is termed as ‘Dependant variable’ because this variable depends upon the causes, variables that represent causes are ‘Independent variables’. Confounding variable is a variable that correlates with the independent and dependent variable, thus it is not possible to determine whether the changes in the independent variable causes changes in the dependent variable or confounding variable, if the
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Christian Salvesen Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words
Christian Salvesen - Essay Example Changes in political administrations have influenced the evolution of laws that concern disability discrimination. Various rights have been accorded to disabled employees to boost their chances of establishing equal playing fields. Amidst this effort, some firms have still failed to practise the prescribed regulations. To further strengthen the established laws, the Disability Discrimination Authority (DDA) continues to monitor the policies that companies formulate regarding their treatment to all employees especially the disabled workers. DDA has formalised the method in which firms provide benefits to workers with disability in the event of sickness or injuries. The next discussion will centre on the policy of Christian Salvesen in providing the needed assistance to its disabled workers. Also, the discussion will determine the conformity of the company's regulations to DDA policies. Wright Investors' Report (2006) provided a snapshot of the company's profile including some vital financial information. Christian Salvesen PLC is one of the major names in the industry of transportation. The company primarily caters the logistics needs and transfer of goods from the sites to the market. Most of its clients are manufacturing and retail companies that distributes wide range of products. The company primarily operates in United Kingdom (UK) and its main office is based in London. The current sales for 2006 are estimated at over 800 million British Pounds. At present, the total number of employees in the firm is 13,245. This suggests that the workforce of the company is one of the biggest in UK. Although the number of disabled workers is not established, it is predicted that there are several employees that have physical disabilities. Definitely, the frequency of workers in the company shows that there are other ventures aside from freight. In fact, the company has some industries that deal with agricultural products. The firm also focus of high valued products like automotive parts and other complex products. In addition, the food division covers fresh and processed goods. The consumer operations covers products classified as needs and luxuries. To illustrate the company's stability, it operates in over 200 hundred. Some of its assets include warehouses that are used to keep the inventories and equipments. Furthermore, the 5000 tractors and 6000 trailers show the strength of the company. All these realities contribute to the necessity of providing ample support to all employees of the company. More important, the welfare of the disabled workers has to be highlighted. The fundamental impetus of providing sickness benefits to disabled employees is underlined in the labour laws of UK. The DDA for instance works closely as an agent that ensures the firms religiously follow the laws. First, the company has sufficient resources to allocate for the benefits of disabled workers. Basically, impaired employees have to be allotted with higher privileges because of their physical frailties. The financial highlights of the firm pictures a company of prosperity and growth. Therefore, it has the capacity to maximise its personnel service budget and
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Trade Unionism in the United Kingdom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words
Trade Unionism in the United Kingdom - Essay Example This paper looks into the status of trade unionism in the United Kingdom from a cross-section of reports of trade unionists themselves who are also authorities on the subject, with some inputs of a unionist from a neighbouring union. All of them accept trade unionism in UK is declining but each qualifies what he means by "decline." Monks 6, however, is more of being non-committal about declination. Much categorical about UK unionism declination are Hyman7 and Gall,8 with the first at least hopeful for unions reclaiming a positive climb, and the latter more or less seeing a dim future for the unions. Finally, this paper looks into the possible role of UK trade unionism in employee relations. Decline of UK Trade unionism is perceived from many angles. If it were on terminal decline it would mean it is tapering off, concluding, finishing, and ending. Therefore, memberships in unions are expected to fall. As a manifestation of its terminal declination, unions would have no power at all, for example, in collective bargaining. With employers, they would have no political teeth to negotiate for better management practices. As presented from several reports on UK trade unionism, however, the end is not yet for the British unions although decline is more or less accepted as discussed in the following - Richard Hyman (2004).9 Hyman is professor of Industrial Relations at the London School of Economics. His main research interests are trade unions and industrial conflict. The author of many books on trade unionism, Hyman locates decline in the trade unions in strength and militancy. Among the sources mentioned here, it is Hyman who strongly states that the trade unions have indeed declined. Yet, hopeful as he is, he declares that unions can recapture misplaced identification of the worker with new world and new futures back to the union by being knowledgeable in the battle for ideas. He then proposes concepts which he declares are the strength of contemporary personnel managers that trade unions should begin to exploit. Gregor Gall (2005).10 Gall, a member of the Scottish Socialist Party and Professor of Industrial Relations at the University of Hertfordshire says the contemporary decline of trade unionism in Britain is in the membership, bargaining power and political influence. Going beyond Hyman11 who sets his statements with a question mark, he is one authority who describes declination quantitatively. According to Gall, trade union density in 2004 was 28.8%, having previously been 55% in 1979. He asks, if social democracy is revived, could it provide a new source of politically inspired union activists Gall puts weight on the role of the activist who's energy has waned and ebbed and refuses to fight. According to him, the activist is the spirit behind unionism. Without the activist, unionism dies. Since the activist today has found his concerns in other things, unionism has weakened. As proof, he said, the Labour Representation Committee was launched a few years ago, but judged by the poor attendance at its annual conferences, and the number of affiliated organizations and local groups, revival does not seem to be making much headway. However,
Save Girl Child Essay Example for Free
Save Girl Child Essay The driving force behind our lives is values (desires). A value can be defined as our highest priority in life. It may be Peace, Self Awareness, Money, Beauty, Power, Prestige, Sensual Pleasure, Contentment, Love etc. Whatever in our hierarchy of values, the top most value will be happiness. A better understanding of happiness is necessary to be happy in life. All the sensual pleasures are subjective, vary from person to person. One may like to hear a famous song while other may prefer to be with a beautiful girl or boy. If we seek repeated sensual pleasure, after each incident pleasure will decrease. The same incident will not give same amount of happiness; law of diminishing return applies to it. So every time we need something new to be happy. If we run behind new things to be happy, we will either drain out or will face depression of success. Are there any ways to be happy without any external stimulus or with same routine or same work or same dish or same spouse? Let us examine happiness further; is it possible to be happy without any object of enjoyment? Suppose if we win in one situation or receive praise, we become happy without any objects of enjoyment. Hence, happiness is a state of mind. And the objects or external stimulants are just a provocative cause to evoke that state. Let us examine this state of mind. We understood happiness is not coming from external stimulus and the happiness happens when our mind becomes still. Therefore happiness should be our true nature and our mind is the hindrance to experience it. If we could create the stillness of mind without any external stimulus, we could experience our true self or true nature orswarupa: sat-chit-ananda (pure blissful consciousness). The bliss can be defined as pleasure without any cause. The consciousness is the simultaneous awareness of the witness, the process of witnessing, and the object of witnessing. The objects were just reflecting the ananda or bliss in us and when it is reflected through objects or external stimulus, it is called happiness. When we experience bliss, we feel oneness with God. When this union or realization happens, we tuned with the natural laws. Mind is a collection of thoughts. It is a useful instrument to handle situations in front of you. We collect some thoughts of past or future (desires or values) to choose better in the present. We opt consciously or unconsciously each and every moment. Our choice causes an effect in the Existence and the Existence responds according to its own laws. Since the consequences of choices are beyond our direct control; we face stress or aadhi in decisions. Since happiness depends on external stimulus and law of diminishing return applies to it, each incident will increase our desire for a new. Thus vulnerability to aadhi increases by each incident. We may run behind objects of enjoyment or a stimulus to evoke the state of happiness. It creates continuous aadhi by forming a vicious circle. Our mind will occupy with either thoughts of past or future without taking the relevant decisions. Because, since there are too many considerations and the need to assure happiness; we will lose our courage to fix in one option. In such conditions, we follow mind or conscience as a guide. The mind and conscience may contain samskaras or imprints or memory of the past or future which may prevent appropriate action in the present. If we try to sort it out by thinking, it strengthens the mind and creates more trouble than before. The distorted mind cause to lose present moment or awareness or consciousness. Thus, the mind causes separation or ignorance of our blissful nature.
Monday, July 22, 2019
Lonrho Plc Essay Example for Free
Lonrho Plc Essay An evaluation of Lonrho’s corporate strategy should start from the two main key issues: in what businesses the firm should compete and how corporate headquarter should manage those businesses. Lonrho’s profile in 1996 included Agriculture, Sugar, General Trade, Hotels, Manufacturing, MiningRefining and MotorEquipment. The level of diversification was clearly high and the firm was pursuing a unrelated strategy, with less than 70% of revenues that came from the dominant business (Mining ) and without common links between businesses. The corporation was divided into country groups or related business lines and each division had a top manager whose responsibilities were similar to those of a group CEO. So the headquarter control of these groups was not very formal and all important decisions were in the hands of Rowland, that used to follow his strategies without consulting the board. Tiny Rowland wasn’t a pure manager but an entrepreneur interested in doing deals, so he made no efforts to share activities or to transfer core competences between different areas. The main interest was to find undervalued assets and try to make them profitable. Hence we can easily analyse the operational relatedness, since the firm didn’t share either primary or support activities. Corporate relatedness needs a deeper analysis. All these businesses seem to be related by Rowland’s huge experience in conducting affairs and by his effective skill in building relationships with African leaders, pursuing the policy of â€Å"investment in people†. But no more corporate-level competences were transferred among Lonrho’s assets, maybe because businesses were too different and Tiny did not want to move key people into new management positions. So from these evaluations, the natural conclusion is that Lonrho’s corporate strategy is an unrelated diversification. In my opinion the corporate level strategy in itself was good (exhibit 1 and 2: high revenues until 1991), but the way in which Rowland managed it was totally wrong. The main strength in its extreme diversification, was the reduction of the risk among the firm’s businesses. However, this is not enough to make the evaluation positive because there were also several negative aspects. Starting with corporate governance, the first big problem was the lack of power by board’s members: Tiny surrounded himself with â€Å"yes-men†and he, not the board, decided what to do in case of critical issues. So the entire conglomerate was managed by a man who used to define himself as an entrepreneur and not a manager. Besides the level of control was low, if we consider that Lonrho was a big and really complex company. Moreover, and here we have the second big problem, among Tiny’s investments, several ones defected in economic rationality. For instance, he became interested in trophy investments, only to gain prestige (that the company couldn’t exploit properly because corporate relatedness was low) although they may have been loss making. Finally, the firm was facing huge cash flow problems, due to large headquarters’ payroll, an inefficient dividend policy and Rowland’s excessive lifestyle. All these issues contributed to destroy the level of revenues and profits over the years and conducted to the only practicable way: an internal restructuring of assets. What future direction(s) should Lonrho take in terms of its corporate-level strategy? The two main options that Lonrho has for come out to the crisis are move in the direction of focusing the business, or continue as a conglomerate. Most important, the company must immediately start a corporate restructuring strategy. The main purpose should be the limitation of losses, instead of the value and profitability creation. Lonrho could pursue this restructuring strategy both in related business lines and in country groups. For related business lines, hotel and general trade segments were cyclical, capital intensive and they were performing below average, so the firm should try to sell its remaining assets to other companies. Regarding country groups, exhibit 2 shows that in United Kingdom, Europe and America, Lonrho was not doing well, so the board should find a way to leave these areas. With this easier structure, now the firm has to take a definite position. i) A business focusing means that Lonrho will concentrate only on one of the three businesses left. Sugar represented 6% of Lonrho revenues and 18% of operating profit in 1996, and despite low production costs and an access to a favourable mix of markets, this seems the most suitable for being abandoned, just because is the smallest asset in the company’s portfolio. Lonrho Africa is diversified both geographically and in business lines. With an operating profit of ? 52 millions, is a valuable segment, but with Tiny no longer in the picture, Lonrho do not have a real Africa specialist. Finally the mining segment is the most important asset for the firm, because represented 22% of 1996 revenue and 41% of operating profit. In my opinion, if the company has to make a choice, this could be the right market to sustain. Some investments are required for Ashanti Goldfields in Ghana and to improve the export capacity of Duiker mining subsidiary in South Africa. However, if Lonrho will be focused only on this business I think that it will have the types and levels of resources and capabilities needed. Nevertheless I do not think that this corporate strategy is the best. This strategy is mainly concerned with making choices among the last two alternatives. So the corporation would be constrained to relinquish the enormous promise of African continent, or the 41% of mining profit if it chooses to focus in Lonrho Africa. ii) The firm can continue as a conglomerate but for the reason said above, also in this case Lonrho should leave the sugar market. Now we have two businesses left and I would like to make a comparison with the Boston Consulting Group chart. With this corporate strategy, the firm could use mining as a â€Å"cash cow†market, trying to exploit the high percentage of the revenues that comes from the asset. Than it can use this cash flow in Lonrho Africa, a proper â€Å"star†market, with its enormous promise but also with a lot of investments needed. So with its management expertise, technical skills and a respected name, mixed with new financial resources, Lonrho could undertake some projects in Africa that few other firms could. I think that these are the right actions that the firm should take in term of corporate strategy.
Sunday, July 21, 2019
Ansoff And Sfa Evaluation Management Essay
Ansoff And Sfa Evaluation Management Essay GM could use product development to improve revenue on a number of brands. However GM must work to drive down costs. Using Porters (1984) cost based generic strategy. It shows reducing costs can also create a competitive advantage. If costs are lowered and price is kept relatively similar this will improve profits (Hines, 2004). This could be seen as a suitable and acceptable option. However how could the costs be reduced? Many suppliers are suffering similar problems from the recession. One strategy would be too merge or acquire existing suppliers, a method of external development (White, 2004), which would reduce costs, improve core competencies and could even lead to technological development. However is this feasible? The strategy has risk, as this may not necessarily reduce costs or improve profits therefore it is not totally acceptable. GM should continue operating in Europe for the foreseeable future. They have changed the business strategy to focus on becoming leaner and developing core brands, while investing considerably in diversification (Sunderland, 2009). This is the best strategic option open to GM however it must be managed well. Applying it to the main success criteria can highlight how this is the best action (Johnson, Scholes and Whittington, 2007): Suitability This strategy addresses the position of GM. Outlined within the SWOT analysis was the need for product development and the introduction of smaller car ranges. GM have already committed to investing if it gets new products into the market faster (Vlasic, 2009). Additionally McAlister (2009), states that GM are already working on new products that they can continue building within the UK plants beyond 2013. An identified strength was its large supply and distribution network therefore using this core competency it can implement new product ranges. If a competitive advantage is gained then it can use the European market as an additional sales environment. Although Yip (2003) states global strategies can have different driving forces, competencies can still be applied if GM understands the local cultures (Lynch, 2003). Staying in Europe is a logical step. To withdraw now could lead to larger costs in the future, such as re-entry into the market as sales in this area cannot be ignored. Ec onomies of scale exist such as an extensive knowledge through suppliers etc so risk would be low for the implementation of any new strategies. Feasibility GM are a global organisation, they have an existing network of both tangible and intangible resources. However significant investment is needed in RD, which could be attained through selling underperforming brands, although as mentioned GM are willing to commit to this aspect. There are no significant issues of time scale but change is not always immediate. For this strategy to work the rate of change must be quick (Johnson et al, 2007) and adopting a new culture is the priority so the management and workforce must show commitment. This could be difficult as the previous culture was slow to react and very bureaucratic (Maynard, 2009). In the future resources may be needed within Europe and by opting to stay GM will have greater access, making the option more feasible. Acceptability A number of stakeholders benefit from this strategy. They government expect GM to keep sales high in order to pay back their debts and this can be achieved more efficiently by existing in a larger market. GM advised there will be a number of job losses, helping towards their restructure and reduction of wages (BBC, 2009). Additionally GM has made the correct decision ethically. This business is vital for a number of industries and therefore helps towards employment so withdrawing from Europe could have a huge effect on suppliers, distributors etc. Finally GM has also made the best decision for their owners. Staying in this market will increase sales and further product development could help sustain a competitive advantage. Although diversification failed in 2004 (Vlasic, 2009) with the mass produced but under marketed EV1 range (Vlasic, 2009), it is possible with the correct investment and understanding it can be a success. Although as outlined above this is the best strategy available to GM, focus must be placed on developing new technology. Bowmans strategy clock (appendix 12) shows that offering differentiated products at a market average price can lead to increased sales through high perceived service benefits (Wheelen and Hunger, 2008). If GM were to market any new technology at a high price it could lead to strategy failure as these products may already exist. In comparison if GM introduces similar products at a lower price it could create an immediate and sustainable competitive advantage. Example 2 Ansoff Matrix, proposed by Igor ansoff, used to classify and explain 4 strategies for business growth. For the case studied, GM opted for consolidation and market penetration. GM uses consolidation strategy (Ansoff) to increase sales without drifting from its original product, we speak of market strategy. GM wants to penetrate this market by improving product quality and provide a real service to these customers. To achieve its goal, GM spends large sums of money in marketing and communication, like advertising for example. This strategy is important for GM because retaining existing customers is cheaper than attracting new customers. It therefore decided to keep five brands already in its possession. Yet, GM is moving beyond its customer base to attract new customers for its existing products. This strategy often involves the sale of existing products into new international markets. For example, the new GM wants to expand its market share thanks to the demand emerging countries like Brazil, China, and India. Indeed, these countries are expanding and it is a growing market for years in the motor industry. Evaluation of the strategies To evaluate the effectiveness of the strategy of the new GM, the SFA (Suitability, Feasibility and acceptability) is an important tool. This theory presented by Johnson, Scholes and Whittington (seventh edition, p. 371, 2005) may help us to analyze the potential of the strategy. The suitability of this strategy is well. The old GM was producing big cars and consumed a lot. They were not economic and do not respect the environment. Thus, the American manufacturer has seen its sales fall in recent years. In addition, the feasibility of this option is good. The new GM has a lot of knowledge and an impressive physical capital. GM already knows the brands it represents. In addition, engineers are working continuously to develop more economical cars. There is a university in the company to provide access to information. Moreover, GM today focuses on 5 brands instead of 11; it can devote a largest share of investment in the RD sector. To finish, GM has received some aids. To finish, the acceptability of this strategy is good. GM is supported by many governments and organizations (for the development of new energy) for its restructuring. It receives financial aid. The US government spends money for GM restructuration, in return GM has to develop clean cars. Personally, I chose the same option as it is obvious that the Old GM had a wide range of products. But they do not come up to consumers expectations. In addition, I took the risk to launch the company into emerging market because there is great potential in sales. Thus, I proposed new models for this market and even open factories, specifically to come up to consumers expectation. Example 3 Identification and Evaluation of Strategy Product development and related diversification (Ansoff, 1988) Mc Afees software will provide Intels chips with hardware-enhancing security (Takahashi, 2010) which leads to a competitive advantage. This strategy is classified as product development since Intel delivers a technologically modified product to its existing market (Johnson, Scholes Whittington, 2008). As Mc Afee remains an independently run security company which stays in its market (BBC News, 2010) it is regarded as one key player in the emerging market of cloud computing (Takahashi, 2010). This vertical integration enables Intel to expand to new markets, diversify the risk through a broader product portfolio and enhance its growth perspectives. Therefore Intel follows the strategy of a related diversification (Johnson et al, 2008). Suitability The strategic directions are suitable as long as they address the key issues identified previously (Johnson et al, 2008). As Intels current market is almost stagnating, the strategic direction should enable long-term growth. Moreover it should incorporate the knowledge of consumer and technological trends in mobile computing. With the acquisition of McAfee, Intel addresses the trend for security and energy efficiency in chips. Moreover they react to the saturated market of PCs as McAfee is expected to be a key player in the growing market of cloud computing (Takahashi, 2010). Another issue arises from anti-trust regulations which prevent Intel from acquiring competitors. A vertical integration does not violate any laws while it enables Intel to enhance its growth perspectives in new markets (diversification). Feasibility Intels strength to finance their investments from their operating profit supports the financial feasibility of the acquisition strategy. Intels healthy financial position allows the company to exploit RD to integrate McAfees security software in their chips. Moreover they gained much experience with MA initiatives from the past (Intel, 2010). This implies that they have strong resources and competences in place which enhance the strategys effectiveness. Acceptability The acquisition was decided unanimously by the both boards. However, falling stock prices of Intel (Appendix 6) reflect suspicious shareholders (Hardawar, 2010). A possible reason for mistrust is seen in a lack of understanding of the gains in comparison to the immense acquisition costs. Intel argues that the financial position justifies the $7.68bn acquisition (BBC News, 2010) which is supported by the assumption to regenerate the $5 billion cash spend for the acquisition in less than a year (Hardawar, 2010). However, the deal may help Intel to gain wider long-term profit margins which reflects a higher shareholder value (King, 2010). Since the acquisition enhanced Intels vertical integration focus and does not place any threat towards anti-trust violations, there is no risk incorporated with governmental intervention (Hardawar, 2010).
Saturday, July 20, 2019
Psychological Egoism :: Psychology Selfishness Selfish Egoism essays
Psychological Egoism Psychological egoism is a reflex that every person has to orient themselves toward their own welfare. Through this, it follows that every one of his (or her) voluntary actions is some good to himself. If someone gives away the last piece of bread to someone else, it is because they want to look like a better person. Due to the fact that they would give away the last piece of bread. Human nature is completely and exclusively egoistic. People are entirely selfish and devoid of any genuine feelings of sympathy, benevolence, or sociability. They are always thinking of themselves in everything they do.      Each individual is preoccupied exclusively with the gratification of personal desires (felicity or happiness).Ones success in maintaining a continuous flow of gratification is the means of ones happiness.      The object of the voluntary acts of every man is some good to himself. Whenever man renounces his right it is either in consideration for some right reciprocally transferred to himself, or for some other good he hopes for from the outcome. This presents us with the old saying: "Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you."      Social organization originates out of self interest. All society is for gain, or for glory. It is not like we think it isâ€â€for love of our fellows. Instead it is for self preservation. It is a sort of social contract. In a state of nature we are at war with each other and life is solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short. In a natural state individuals are in equal powers. Voluntary collective organization is the most effective way for individuals to utilize their powers.      Man should be allowed the right to use all means or actions to preserve himself. For every man is desirous of what is good to him, and shuns what is evil, but chiefly the chiefest of natural evil, which is death. The right to bear arms. In conclusion, I would like to say that? Psychological Egoism-- This is the claim that humans by nature are motivated only by self-interest . Any act, no matter how altruistic it might seem, is actually motivated by some selfish desire of the agent (e.g., desire for reward, avoidance of guilt, personal happiness). This is a descriptive claim about human nature. Since the claim is universal--all acts are motivated by self interest--it could be proven false by a single counterexample (Weston, rule #11). It will be difficult to find an action that the psychological egoist will acknowledge as purely altruistic, however. There is almost always some benefit to ourselves in any action we choose.
Melvilles Men :: Argumentative Argument Philosophy Papers
Melville's Men The body of this argument lies in a meager psychoanalysis of Melville. I have had to take a very broad approach, look at Melville purely as a man. I have attempted to put the reader into Melville's head, where I have attempted to put myself. To better achieve this I discuss much of Melville's background, hoping to give the reader a sense of what he had experienced. I have written with confidence, but hopefully not too much, you must decide for yourselves what of mine you feel is right. It is always very hard to use psychoanalytical approaches, because, as the mind is a mystery, it is all ultimately unproved. All psychoanalytical opinion is based on event, as all psychology is based on the idea that men are shaped by experience. I speculate below, on things I cannot really know, and I do this only to achieve some rough personal connections between Melville and his Moby-Dick. It serves me, and I hope you as well. Herman Melville might have been a homosexual, or at least, a lover of men. Of course the word, "Homosexual" did not exist in Melville's time and so he could not really be a homosexual. Besides this, there is little to no evidence that Melville ever did, or desired to engage in genital, homosexual sex. There is no way of knowing that he was homosexual, but there are many implications that he at least had strong affections toward men. The question is: How was this reflected in what is generally considered to be Melville's greatest work, Moby-Dick? Or one could even ask, how does the homoeroticism, ever present in Moby-Dick, reflect on Melville's own sexuality? Because homoeroticism, or rather, male friendships are such a large theme in Moby-Dick, one might also think to ask what it all means to the greater message of the book. The parallels between Melville's own sexual identity and the sexual identity of his protagonist, Ishmael are quite strong. Thus it follows that Moby-Dick might h ave been Melville's attempt to understand his own sexuality and its' course, or at least his fantasy. Sigmund Freud theorized that while most male children are secretly attracted to their mothers, homosexual male children harbor attraction toward their fathers. While I am not calling him a homosexual, it seems clear to me that Melville's relationship with his father must have effected him. I assume the effect to be negative, because, Allan Melville was not a model father.
Friday, July 19, 2019
A Separate Peace Essays -- essays papers
A Separate Peace3 A Separate Peace is a coming-of-age novel about two boys at boarding school and their friendship during World War II. There are three significant scenes of violence that occur in the novel; however, the core of the plot is based upon one. The first and most poignant is the incident where Gene, the narrator, jiggles the tree branch while he and Phineas, his best friend, are preparing to jump, causing Phineas to fall and break his leg. The next scene of violence is when Quackenbush calls Gene a lame and Gene pushes him into the water. Lastly, Gene pushes Leper out of his chair while visiting him after he is accused of causing Phineas’ injury. All of these occurrences contribute to the overall meaning of the work. One of the climaxes of A Separate Peace happens at the first scene of violence. Until this scene, the reader is unaware of Gene’s â€Å"evil side†. He is so overtaken by his jealousy and rage toward Phineas that he succumbs to his emotions and causes Finny to fall off of the tree branch. This shows the immature, childish side of the characters. Not only are they climbing trees, which is a behavior commonly practiced among children, but children also do not know how to handle feelings and emotions, and commonly react with violence. Gene then proceeds to dive off of the branch like nothing happened, apparently satisfied with his â€Å"achievement†; showing the reader that, like a child, there is little or no remorse for one’s actions. The...
Thursday, July 18, 2019
Biographical Sketch Of August Aichorn
Born in Vienna about 129 years ago on the 27th of July August Aichhorn was to change the face of Special Education forever in the years to come. Of course, no one in his family or amongst his friends or neighbors could have predicted his illustrious future since he was, like most kids, little more than a gawky bespectacled studious little thing while in school.There was little to be noticed about him except that he had a twin brother. This twin brother he lost at the age of 20. Heartbroken and a little frazzled (since he had after all been close to his sibling) he began teaching at a school in Vienna. He seemed to have had his career pretty clearly etched out in his mind.And a pretty predictable path it followed too. Teaching was a respectable profession those days and young respectable young men from well-established families (like him) jumped at the chance to pursue it. Only problem was that in those days once you chose a career for yourself you were expected to stick to it until y ou were too old to continue with it and had to retire with a pension.The hop-skip and jump routine we are so used to performing in the job market today was an absolute no-no then. Unfortunately Aichhorn soon discovered that conventional rules such as these did not matter much to him.In 1907 when the Boy’s military settlement was introduced in Vienna Aichhorn, then an enthusiastic 27 year old, opposed it vehemently and finally managed to outdo the system with his exuberance. Soon after, in 1908 he assumed the role of the chairman of a brand new board designed only to organize boys’ settlements.By means of his rather effective and well-directed activism he therefore managed to keep he education system, a system he had now grown to love and honor, from being maligned by the now growing ‘military spirit’.With great determination he now endeavored to take his devotion to the system to the next logical level, the institution he organized in Oberhollabrunn for de linquent boys was an outcome of this very attempt. (Dollard, 2006)In Oberhollabrunn Aichhorn managed the unthinkable by creating out of the dilapidated remains of a refugee camp what was later considered to be one the most sensitive, touching and humanitarian studies of human behavior. This was a period of flux for what had once been a great and much respected monarchy in Austria.Old Austrian traditions were now being dragged into the street and left ankle deep in poverty and shame. Austrians were striving to keep themselves afloat despite the tremendous inflation and revolution brewed. Amongst it all Aichhorn chose to, characteristically, stay away from all the humdrum and surrender himself completely to work.As in every other state of chaos Austria was now becoming a cauldron for trouble, crime and delinquency was frothing up and societal pressures were getting harder to bear than ever before. Amidst it all Aichhorn dreamed of a way to bring back hope to crime doers. Of course he was not original in his subject choice.Dozens before him had meddled with the same topic rather unsuccessfully. Many of Aichhorn predecessors had advocated some old school mercy and ‘understanding, while others had strongly recommended a good dose of thrashing all in order to bring wrongdoers to their senses and recuperate them.Aichhorn however was not a big fan of either approach. In Oberhollabrunn he had the opportunity to put into practical use the sort of methods he considered truly effective to deal with crime and delinquency. What he saw and understood he finally put down in the form of a book, now the ‘Bible’ in the field – Wayward Youth. (Lamb, 2004)It is perhaps a little difficult to really grasp the importance of the door Aichhorn managed to open up to the public and academicians by suggesting that psychoanalytic principles be applied to the study of delinquent behavior today in 2007, when much has been said and done in this direction.Despite the progress we have made in the field however Aichhorn’s work, the Wayward Youth still continues to be a supremely important resource book simply because of its pioneering nature. In the field of crime and delinquent psychology Aichhorn’s work still continue to provide the basic fundamentals even when we have walked far enough to form complex sentences with these letters we will still have to turn to Aichhorn for support.What makes Wayward Youth such a complete pioneer is the fact that it distinguishes between what it terms the ‘latent’ and the ‘manifest’ delinquents. Further, it suggests that an arrested development inclines a person towards ‘antisocial’ behavior.Hence, a troubled child-parent relationship in the early years of the infant might be the primary reason behind his/her delinquent actions in later life.Aichhorn’s capacity to deal with delinquents is often been described as ‘instinctive’ or ‘intui tive’. After having discovered his talent in dealing with antisocial behavior Aichhron was further influenced and encouraged to train himself in the field of psychoanalysis by none other than Anna Freud, daughter of the man who began it all Sigmund Freud, who was herself engaged in some remarkable studies of the human mind.Aichhorn joined the Vienna Psychoanalytic Institute at the ripe age or 44, in 1922. He would later organize a special service for child guidance in the same institution.Aichhorn remained in Austria even during the tumultuous 1930’s, thanks to his non-Jew background and the utter ease with which he handled the Nazis.He worked quietly during the war years and waited patiently for the storm to pass and a new day for psychoanalysis to begin in the post-war era once the war ended Aichhorn enthusiastically reopened the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society, only now it was to be called August Aichhorn Gesellschaft. (King, 2000)It was also a regeneration time. Ideo logical conflicts and military interests were shaking civilization right up to its foundations. The doubts, dilemmas and confusions were gradually, quite slowly indeed, giving way to a new and unique cultural revolution. It was happening all across the Western world.People suddenly seemed to realize that there was enough of political warfare to disgrace humanity. (Fletcher, 2005)The prevailing standards suddenly seemed to be meaningless, and the insurgent youths wanted something different to happen and Aichhorn was one of the characters of the era that found himself into his own elements in such a situation.He never lost hope and continued to proceed in the direction he was meant to be. It is certain he never became frustrated like many of the individuals of the post war period and stood firm on his ground rather that drift away. (Kar, 2006)Many think Aichhorn’s tryst with delinquents began early even while he struggled as a grade school teacher in the city of Vienna. He hank ered for a theoretical base which would be able to support and expand his understanding of the world of these crime doers and help him set them right again.Hungry to fulfill this desire he studied neuropathology, like many his age during that period unfortunately neuropathology did little to quench his question, instead it only made him wonder further.Desperate he now tried his hands at experimental psychology, which too failed to satisfy him. It was only when he would finally discover psycho-analysis that he would finally find all the missing pieces to his puzzle. (Edelman, 2001)
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
The Return: Shadow Souls Chapter 33
To her surprise, Elena felt no anger, only a determination to protect Stefan if she could.And beca use up she pr e trulyplaceb that in the cell shed assumed was empty, on that point was a kitsune.The kitsune anticipateed nonhing same Shinichi or Misao. He had long, long hair as white as snow b atomic number 18ly his face was young. He was come aparting e re on the wholey(prenominal) white, in like manner, tunic and breeches give away of whatever f funkying, silky material and his tail often submited the gnomish cell, it was so fluffy. He also had fox ears which twitched this way and that. His eye were the gold of fire run fors.He was gorgeous.The kitsune coughed again. so he produced from his long hair, Elena thought, a very(prenominal), very sm alto fixher and thin-skinned leather stand.Like, Elena thought, the perfect hold for unitary perfect jewel.Now the kitsune took a pret degrade up bottle of ominous charming (it was heavy and a pretend jollify was delicious), and filled the petty bag with it. because he took a pretend spray (he held it as Dr. Meggar had and tapped it to tucker out the bubbles out) and filled it from the weensy bag. Fin whatsoevery, he stuck the pretend syringe by dint of his own bars and depressed his thumb, alter it.I crowd out feed you shoothearted Magic drink, Elena translated. With his low pouch I can hold it and fill the syringe. Dr. Meggar could fill the syringe, too. precisely thithers no judg manpowert of conviction, so Im discharge to do it.I began Stefan.You are notwithstandington to drink as fast as you can. Elena write outd Stefan, precious to hear his example, cute to fill her eyeb in wholly with him, al wizard t pre move was a spiritedness to be save upd, and the bearing was his. She took the microscopical pouch with a influence of thanks to the kitsune and left her tog on the floor. She was too intent on Stefan to verit equal(a) remember how she was puted.Her hold precious to shed precisely she wouldnt let them. She had three bottles of disconsolate Magic here her own, in her cloak, Dr. Meggars, and somewhere, in his cloak, Damons.So with the delicate efficiency of a machine, she repeated what the kitsune had shown her over and over. Dip, pull up lever, push through bars, squirt. Over and over and over.After c retrogress a cardinal of these Elena developed a new technique, the catapult. weft the picayune bag with booze and attri thate it by the top until Stefan got his mouth positioned, and thus, all(a) in one motion, smashing the bag with her palm and squirting a comely amount straight off into Stefans mouth. It got the bars cohesive, it got Stefan stimulatey it would neer feature worked if the steel had been razor-sharp for him, but it actually forced a surp rising amount down his throat.The separate bottle of Black Magic fuddle- glossinessed she allot in the kitsunes cell, which had regular bars. She didnt quite an turn in how to thank him, but when she could unfinished a cooperate, she ari chit-chatd to him and smiled. He was chugging the Black Magic straight from the bottle, and his face was clothe in an expression of cool, appreciative pleasure.The end came too quickly. Elena heard shrewds voice booming, It is no fair Elena ordain not be ready Elena has not had enough clock with himElena didnt need an anvil dropped on her pass. She shoved the ut more or less(a) bottle of Black Magic wine into the kitsunes cell, she bowed for the last time and gave him blanket his tiny pouch but with the stoolie diamond from her navel in it. It was the largest trance of jewellery she had left and she adage him turn it over precisely in long-nailed fingers and then rise to his feet and influence a tiny bow to her. thither was a arcminute for a mutual smile and then Elena was cleaning up Dr. Meggars bag, and pulling on her blushing(a) cloak. accordingly she was turning to Stefan, change integrity deep down once much, gasping Im so sorry. I didnt mean to make it a medical examination visit. plainly you saw the chance to save my life and fair couldnt pass it up.sometimes the brothers were very much a care.Stefan, dont Oh, I applaud youElena. He caressed her fingers, pressed to the bars. Then, to the guards No, please, please, dont take her away For pitys sake, weaken us one more minute average one moreover Elena had to let go of his fingers to hold her cloak to lowerher. The last she saw of Stefan, he was throbbing on the bars with his fists and calling, Elena, I love you ElenaThen Elena was dragged out of the hallway and a door ill-use shut between them. She sagged. armor went around her, helped her to notch. Elena got angry If Stefan was organism put option back in his old lice-ridden cell as she supposed he was, right peck close to now he was being do to walk. And these demons did nothing gently, she knew that. He was in all likelihood being d riven like an animate being with sharp instruments of wood.Elena could walk, too.As they r separatelyed the front of the Shi no Shi lobby Elena looked around. Wheres Damon?In the coach, Sage answered in his gentlest voice. He needed some time. explode of Elena verbalise, Ill give him time Time to grouse once forwards I rub his throat out But the watch of her was just sad.I didnt hurt to word anything I takeed to theorise. I wanted to tell him how sorry Damon is and how Damons changed. He didnt point remember that Damon had been there He talked to you? Sage seemed astonished.The ii of them, Sage and Elena, walked out of the net marble doors of the building of the Gods of Death. That was the name Elena had elect for it in her own brainiac.The carriage was at the curb in front of them, but no one got in. Instead, Sage gently steered Elena a little distance from the others. in that location he put his large overturns on her shoulders and spoke, still in that very soft v oice,Mon Dieu, my child, but I do not want to say this to you. It is that I must. I fear that sluice if we encounter your Stefan out of jail by the mean solar day of peeress Bloddeuwedds ships company that that it will be too late. In three eld he will already beIs that your medical opinion? Elena said sharply, determine up at him. She knew her face was haggard and white and that he pitied her greatly, but what she wanted was an answer.I am not a medical man, he said slowly. I am just another vampire.Just another Old One?Sages eyebrows went up. Now, what gave you that little idea?Nothing. Im sorry if Im wrong. But will you please get Dr. Meggar?Sage looked at her for a long minute more, then departed to get the doctor. Both men came back.Elena was ready for them. Dr. Meggar, Sage only saw Stefan at the beginning, before you gave him that injection. It was Sages opinion that Stefan would be wild in three days. give the effects of the injection, do you agree?Dr. Meggar pee red at her and she could see the shine of tears in his short-sighted eyes. It is possible just possible that if he has enough willpower, he could still be a fuck by then. But most likelyWould it make any residuum to your opinion if I said that he drank maybe a third of a bottle of Black Magic wine tonight?Both men stared at her. Are you saying Is this just a plan you rush now? amuse Forgetting about her cape, forgetting everything, Elena grasped Dr. Meggars ease ups. I prime a way to get him to drink about that much. Does it make a difference? She squeezed the decrepit legislates until she could feel bone.It certainly should. Dr. Meggar looked deep in thought(p) and afraid to hope. If you sincerely got that much into his system, he would be closely certain to live until the night of Bloddeuwedds party. Thats what you want, isnt it?Elena sank back, un subject to resist liberal his hands a little kiss as she let go.And now lets go tell Damon the good news, she said.In the carriage, Damon was sitting bolt upright, his profile outlined against a blood-red sky. Elena got in and shut the door buttocks her.With no expression at all, he said, Is it over?Over? Elena wasnt really this dense, but she figured it was important that Damon be clear in his own mind as to what he was asking.Is he dead? Damon said wearily, pinching the bridge of his nose with his fingers.Elena allowed the tranquility to go on for a few beats longer. Damon must hump Stefan was not likely to actually die in the next half hour. Now that he wasnt getting instant confirmation of this his head snapped up.Elena, tell me What happened? he demanded, urgency in his voice. Is my brother dead?No, Elena said quietly. But hes likely to die in a few days. He was coherent this time, Damon. wherefore didnt you speak to him?There was an almost plain inviting featureing-in on Damons part. What do I hand over to say to him that matters? he asked harshly. Oh, Im sorry I almost killed you? Oh, I hope you make it another few days?Things like that, maybe, if you bear the sarcasm.When I die, Damon said cuttingly, Im going away to be standing on my own two feet and fighting.Elena slapped him across the mouth. There wasnt room to get much leverage here, but she put as much Power behind the motion as she dared without risking faulting the carriage.Afterward, there was a long silence. Damon was touching his expel lip, accelerating the healing, swallowing his own blood.Finally he said, It never purge occurred to you that you are my knuckle down, did it? That Im your master?If youre going to retreat into fantasy, thats your affair, Elena said. Myself, I have to weed with the real world. And, by the way, soon aft(prenominal) you ran away, Stefan was not only standing but laughing.Elena on a quick rising note. You found a way to give him blood? He grasped her arm so hard it hurt.Not blood. A little Black Magic. With two of us there, it would have gone twice as fast.There we re three of you there.Sage and Dr. Meggar had to distract the guards.Damon took his hand away. I see, he said, expressionlessly. So I failed him yet again.Elena looked at him with sympathy. Youre completely inside the stone ball now, arent you?I dont know what youre talking about.The stone ball you stick anything that might hurt you inside. You nonetheless draw yourself inside it, although it must be very cramped in there. Katherine must be in there, I suppose, walled off in her own little chamber. She remembered the night at the hotel. And your mother, of course. I should say, Stefans mother. She was the mother you knew.Dontmy mother Damon couldnt even form a coherent sentence.Elena knew what he wanted. He wanted to be held and soothed and told it was all right just the two of them, downstairs her cloak with her warm arms safe salveing him. But he wasnt going to get it. This time she was saying no.She had promised Stefan that this was for him, alone. And, she thought, she would keep to the spirit of that promise, if she hadnt kept to the letter, forever.As the hebdomad progressed, Elena was able to recover from the pain of see Stefan. Although none of them could speak about it extract in choked, brief exclamations, they listened when Elena said that there was still a job to be through with(p), and that if they managed to complete it well they would be able to go seat soon composition if they did not complete it, Elena didnt care whether she went home or stayed here in the deplorable Dimension.Home It had the sound of a haven, even though reasonable and Meredith knew firsthand what amiable of hell was lurking in Fells Church for them. But somehow anything would be preferable to this land of bloody light.With hope kindling beguile in their surroundings, they were once again able to feel pleasure at the dresses lady Ulma was having made for them. Designing was the one quest that the lady could still enjoy during her prescribed bed rest, and la dy Ulma had been hard at work with her sketch pad. Since Bloddeuwedds party would be an interior/outdoor affair, all three dresses had to be care unspoilty designed to be attractive both nether candlelight and under the giant red suns crimson rays.Merediths gown was deep metallic blue, violet in the sunlight, and it showed an entirely different side of the little girl from the siren in the skin-tight mermaid dress who had tended to(p) Fazinas gala. It reminded Elena somehow of something an Egyptian princess would wear. Once again, it left Merediths arms and shoulders bare, but the modest specify skirt that fell in straight lines to her sandals, and the delicacy of the sapphire beads that decorate the shoulder straps served to give Meredith an unassuming look. That look was emphasized by Merediths hair, which Lady Ulma situated be worn down, and her face, which was bare of physical composition except kohl around the eyes. At her throat, a necklace made of the very largest ova l-cut sapphires formed an thrive collar. She also had matching blue gems on her wrists and slender fingers. sightlys dress was a little clever invention it was made of a silvery material which took on a pastel tinge of the color of the ambient lighting. Moonlight-colored indoors, it shone a soft shimmering pink, almost exactly the color of Bonnies strawberry hair, when she was outside. It sported a belt, necklace, bracelets, ear sound, and rings all of matching cabochon-cut white opals. Bonnies curls were to be carefully pinned up and away from her face, in a daringly mussed-up mass, leaving her pellucid skin to shine lightly go up in the sunlight, and ethereally pale inside.Once again, Elenas dress was the simplest and the most striking. Her gown was scarlet, the same color under blood-red sun or indoor gas lamp. It was rather low cut, heavy(a) her creamy skin a chance to shine sumptuous in the sunlight. Clinging close to her figure, it was slashed up one side to give her roo m to walk or dance. On the good laternoon of the party Lady Ulma had Elenas hair carefully napped into a tangled cloud that shimmered Titian outdoors, golden indoors. Her jewelry ranged from an inset of diamonds at the diffuse of the neckline, to diamonds on her fingers, wrists and one upper arm, positivist a diamond choker that harmonize over Stefans necklace. All these would blaze as red as rubies in the sunlight, but would occasionally glint another startle color, like a burst of mini-fireworks. Onlookers, Lady Ulma promised, would be dazzled.But I cant wear these, Elena had protested to Lady Ulma. I might not get to see you again before we get Stefan and from that moment were on the becomeIts the same for all of us, Meredith had added quietly, looking at each of the girls in their indoor colorise of silvery-blue, scarlet, and opal. Were all have on the most jewelry weve ever worn indoors or out but you might lose it allAnd you might need it all, Lucen had said quietly. All the more reason for you each to have jewelry that you can trade for carriages, safety, food, whatever. Its simply designed, too you can spin out a stone and use it as payment, and the jewels are not in an elaborate setting that might not be to some collectors taste.In appendix to which, they are all of the highest quality, Lady Ulma had added. They are the most flawless examples of their kind we could get on such short notice.At that point, all three girls had reached their limit, and rushed the catch Lady Ulma on her enormous bed, sketchbook always beside her, and Lucen standing nearby and cried and kissed and broadly speaking undid the beautiful jobs that had been done on their faces.Youre like angels to us, do you know that? Elena sobbed. Just like fairy godparents or angels I dont know how I can say goodbyeLike angels, Lady Ulma had said then, wiping a tear from Elenas cheek. Then she grasped Elena, saying wait and gestured to herself comfortably in bed, with a me et of blooming, dewy-eyed young women ready to serve up to her wishes. Lady Ulma had then nodded at the window, out of which a small mill well out could be seen, and some plum trees, with sophisticated fruit blazing like jewels on the branches, and then with a sweep of her hand indicated the gardens, orchards, fields, and forests on the estate.Then she had taken Elenas hand and smoothed it over her own softly curving abdomen. You see? she had spoken almost in a whisper. Do you see all of this and can you remember how you found me? Which of us is an angel now?At the words how you found me Elenas hands had flown up to cover her face as if shed been uneffective to bear what memory showed her at that moment. Then she was hugging and kissing Lady Ulma again, and a whole new round of cosmetic-destroying embraces had begun. keep down Damon was even kind enough to corrupt Lucen, Lady Ulma had said, and you may not be able to picture it, but here she had looked at the quiet, bearded jeweler with eyes full of tears I feel for him as you feel for your Stefan. And then she had blushed and incomprehensible her face in her hands.Hes freeing Lucen today, Elena had said, move to her knees to rest her head against Lady Ulmas pillow. And giving the estate to you irrevocably. Hes had a lawyer an advocate, youd say working on the papers all week with a Guardian. Theyre done now, and even if that hideous general should come back, he couldnt touch you. You have your home forever. more(prenominal) crying. More kissing. Sage, who had been innocently walking down the hallway, whistling, after a romp with his dog, Saber, had passed Lady Ulmas room and had been drawn in. Well all look out on you, too Elena had wept. Oh, thank youLater that day, Damon had made good on all of Elenas promises, to a fault giving a large premium to each member of the staff. The air had been full of metallic confetti, rose petals, music, and cries of farewell as Damon, Elena, Bonnie, and Mered ith had been carried to Bloddeuwedds party and away forever.Come to retrieve of it, why didnt Damon free us? Bonnie asked Meredith as they rode in packs toward Bloddeuwedds mansion. I can understand that we needed to be slaves to get into this world, but were in now. why not make honest girls of us?Bonnie, were honest girls already, Meredith reminded her.And I think the point is that we were never real slaves at all.Well, I meant why doesnt he free us so that everyone knows were honest girls, Meredith, and you know it.Because you cant free person whos free already, thats why.But he could have gone through the ceremony, Bonnie persisted. Or is it really hard to free a slave here?I dont know, Meredith said, breaking at last under this unwearying inquisition. But Ill tell you why I think he doesnt do it. I think that its because this way hes responsible for us. I mean, its not that slaves cant be punished we saw that with Elena. Meredith paused succession they both shuddered at the memory. But, ultimately, its the slave owner that can lose their life over it. Remember, they wanted to stake Damon for what Elena did.So hes doing it for us? To protect us?I dont know. Isuppose so, Meredith said slowly.Then I guess weve been wrong about him in the past? Bonnie liberally said weve instead of youve. Meredith had always been the one of Elenas group most resistant to Damons charm.Isuppose so, Meredith said again. Although it seems that everyone is forgetting that until recently Damon helped the kitsune fit to put Stefan here And Stefan definitely hadnt done anything to deserve it.Well, of course thats true, Bonnie said, look relieved not to have been too wrong, and at the same time oddly wistful.All Stefan ever wanted from Damon was recreation and quiet, Meredith continued, as if on more tranquilize ground there.And Elena, Bonnie added automatically.Yes, yes and Elena. But all Elena wanted was Stefan I mean all Elena wants Merediths voice trailed off. The s entence didnt seem to work properly in the present strive anymore. She tried again. All Elena wants now isBonnie just watched her speechlessly.Well, whatever she wants, Meredith concluded, rather shake, she wants Stefan to be a part of it. And she doesnt want any of us to have to stay here in thisthis hellhole.In another litter just beside them things were very quiet. Bonnie and Meredith were so used by now to change of location in close litters that they hadnt even realise that another palanquin had drawn up on(predicate) of them and that their voices carried clearly in the hot, still afternoon air.In the second litter, Damon and Elena both looked very hard at the silken curtains speed open.Now, Elena, with an almost mad air of needing something to do, hurriedly unwound a cord and the curtains dropped into place.It was a mistake. It closed Elena and Damon into a surreal glowing red oblong, in which only the words that they had just heard seemed to have validity.Elena felt her clue coming too quickly. Her aura was slip. Everything was slipping sideways.They dont believe that I only want to be with StefanSteady on, Damon said. This is the last night. By tomorrow Elena held up a hand to keep him from saying it.By tomorrow well have found the key and gotten Stefan and well be out of here, Damon said anyway.Jinx, thought Elena. And sent up a prayer after it.They rode in silence up toward Bloddeuwedds luxurious mansion. For a surprisingly long time Elena didnt realize that Damon was trembling. It was a quick, involuntary shaken breath that alerted her.Damon Dear dear promised land Elena was stricken, at a loss, not for words, but for the right words. Damon, look at me Why?Why? Damon replied in the only voice he could trust not to quiver or crack or break. Because do you ever think of whats happening to Stefan firearm youre going to a party wearing splendid clothes, being carried along, to drink the finest wine and to dance while he while he Th e thought remained unfinished.This is just what I needed right before being seen in public, Elena thought, as they reached the long way to Bloddeuwedds home. She tried to call on all of her resources before the curtains were drawn and they were free to step out at the location of the second half of the key.
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