Monday, September 30, 2019

Lord of the Flies Notes by William Golding Essay

The Setting A deserted island which is describe as a tropical paradise, and with a scar, a lagoon and a beach. It was shown by the appearance that the island was presented as beautiful as the garden of Eden. On the other hand, evilness and danger were hindered and were shown through different sentence throughout the chapters. B.The Plot †¢Exposition (Conflicts, confrontation, chaos) In the middle of a war, a plane with a group of British schoolboys was shot down over a deserted island. Two boys, Ralph and Piggy, found a conch shell, and Piggy suggested that it could be used as a horn to call for the other boys. Once all the boys were there, they decided to elect a leader. They chose Ralph as their leader, and Ralph appointed Jack to be in charge of the choir boys who would be hunting for food. Ralph thinks that they must light a fire by using Piggy’s glasses so to attract the attention of passing ships, hoping that someone would see the fire and save them. The boys succeed in making a fire, but it burned down quickly because no one was watching the fire. Jack thinks that Ralph shouldn’t be the leader and Jack forms a new tribe. †¢Climax The boys thought that there was a beast in a cave on the island, and none of them dared to go in to find out who or what the beast actually was. Simon was brave, and he found out that the true identity of the beast was actually a dead parachutist. He planned to run down to the beach to tell the rest of the boys, but he ran into the middle of Jack’s tribe’s gathering and they thought that Simon was the beast. They ended up killing Simon. The next morning, Piggy realized that Jack’s tribe had stolen his glasses, so Ralph and Piggy went to find Jack’s tribe and ask for the glasses back. But they refused and Roger rolled a boulder down a mountain and killed Piggy. †¢Resolution Ralph knew that Jack’s tribe would be finding him, hunting him down. So Jack told his tribe to light the entire forest with fire to scare Ralph out of his hiding place. When Ralph saw the fire, he immediately ran towards the beach and fell down because he was tired. Ralph looked up and saw a British naval officer. Ralph cries in the end because of his loss. C.The Characters Ralph One of the main characters / main protagonist Elected leader He was responsible of the well-being of all the other boys in the story ï  µHe the one and only boy who could still remain civilized and rational at the end of the story Piggy The smart one/ the most intelligent one His glasses is the key to making the fire Made fun of because of his weight and outlook The outsider Was killed by the stone Jack Leader of choir boys / hunters Main antagonist Longs for total power He is rival to Ralph and eventually declares himself as the chief Simon Knows the true identity of the beast Was killed Oddball of the group Roger and Maurice The hangman of Jack’s tribe Roger’s Jack’s lieutenant who has a sadistic streak. Maurice was Roger’s henchman Kills Piggy Same and Eric / Samneric Twins Loyal Seemed to be the boys who† breathed together† and â€Å"grinned together† D.The Themes Civilization V.S. Slavery Ralph (Order) V.S. Jack (Wanting for power) Civilized, mannered, English boys V.S. Brutal, wild Loss of Innocence Boys were supposed to be innocent, but they were brutal Crowd Mentality Good and evil The conch group V.S the savages The boys V.S terrifying beast Attemps at rescue from a passing ship V.S imprisonment on the increasingly chaotic island E.Read the Introduction and answer the following questions: 1.How was the novel inspired by Coral Island? Both stories’ plots are about boys being stranded on a deserted island. In â€Å"Coral Island†, the author, R. M. Ballantyne, wrote his perspective of what British boys would do if they were stranded on an island. In the story, the three boys worked together. They built huts, hunted for food and explored the island. They were at first, primitive cast mates, but then evolved into civilized people. â€Å"Lord of the Flies† was inspired by the plot and idea of boys being stranded on an island, but William Golding wrote his own perspective of how he thought a group of civilized boys would react to being stranded on a deserted island. The difference is that in â€Å"Coral Island†, the boys became civilized people while in â€Å"Lord of the Flies†, the civilized boys became â€Å"monsters†. 2.Briefly describe the three parts of the novel For the first part, it’s mainly the background of how the boys got stranded  on the island and the election of their leader – Ralph. Ralph thinks that they should start a fire to get the attention of passing ships in order to rescue them from the island. The second part is mainly about Jack forming a tribe against Ralph and them killing Simon because they thought that he was the beast. But actually, Simon knew that the beast was actually a dead soldier, but he was killed because Jack’s tribe thought that he was the beast. The third part is mainly about how Jack’s tribe stole Piggy’s glasses to start the fire and how Roger rolled a boulder down the mountain, killing Piggy. And about how Jack’s tribe tried to kill Ralph by setting fire to the entire forest, but Ralph was rescued by a British Naval officer. 3.Briefly comment on the style in which the novel is written The author wrote the story in a very straight forward style. There weren’t too lengthy descriptions. The characters and objects in the story have symbolic meanings that show us the main theme of the story. This story is based on the author’s real – life experience with the cruelty and brutality of World War II.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Looking for loans

The problem with borrowing money from a rich uncle for starting a business is that 1) the funds can be stopped at any time; 2) your uncle ordinarily can not provide the practical advice necessary for growing the business; and 3) your relationship with your uncle might be ruined if the business goes under. Two alternate methods of looking for loans are as follows: SBA loans and venture capitalists SBA administers three separate, but equally important loan programs. SBA sets the guidelines for the loans while SBA’s partners (Lenders, Community Development Organizations, and Microlending Institutions) make the loans to small businesses. SBA backs those loans with a guaranty that will eliminate some of the risk to the lending partners. (www.sba.gov) The advantages of a SBA loan is that often it is usually easier to get a SBA loan as opposed to   a traditional bank loan and the SBA itself is an invaluable resource of information and classes about starting a small business. Venture capital is money made available for investment in innovative enterprises or research, especially in high technology, in which both the risk of loss and the potential for profit may be considerable.   Venture capitalist finance startups in exchange for a share of stock once the company goes public.   Normally, financing is done in rounds.   For example, a company is given 12 million dollars and, once that money is exhausted, it applies for another round of financing. Venture capital is mostly limited to high tech companies and is hard to obtain.   Only one in a thousand prospects presented before a venture capitalist actually gets funded.   Also, it takes time and money to make presentations to venture capitalists. Most venture capitalists are located in large metropolitan areas, such as Silicon Valley; hence, if you have a business located outside a large metropolitan area, you should factor in the travel time involved in contacting venture capitalists into your decision to use venture capital as a source of funding.   Also depending solely on venture capital for funding is risky because financing rounds are not guaranteed.   Your company may have to suddenly close down if you find that you have exhausted your round of financing without turning a profit. â€Å"SBA Financing Basics† (n.d.).   Retrieved from http://www.sba.gov/financing/basics/basics.html References â€Å"

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Advertising is a Marketing Tool Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Advertising is a Marketing Tool - Essay Example Advertising campaigns are prepared with a specific intention in mind. They target specific products or the overall product attributes of an enterprise. Wendy’s has prepared advertising campaigns to highlight the fast service of its carry out window order service with the added message that is open after midnight. The use of publicity is much different than advertising. The purpose of creating publicity is to raise awareness about the company as a whole. An unwritten rule about publicity is that any publicity either positive or negative is good for the company because it gets the name of the company out in the conscious of the customers. Sometimes companies create stunts to create publicity in an unethical manner. For instance a CEO might go on public television on a rampage burning the competitor’s products and services in order to create a media reaction. These types of publicity stunts should not be used since they hurt the integrity of the marketing profession. 2. In your response you mentioned a lot of differences between advertising and publicity. I like your response a lot. One of the differences between the two concepts is the planning associated with each of them. Advertising requires a systematic plan that requires a specific budget, timeline, and other variables. On the other hand publicity a lot of times occurs as a spur of the moment event. For instance if a company wins an award from a recognize magazine for best customer service within its industry this occurrence will create publicity for the firm. The company did not plan for the publicity. 3. participation article In the article Marketing Ethics in Emerging Markets – Coping with Ethical Dilemmas the author mentions some cases concerning lack of marketing ethics including the Nestle occurrence in India. Nestle took advantage of the ignorance of portions of the Indian population to launch a fear campaign in order to persuade people to switch from tap water to the bottle water the company was launching. To me this type of behavior is unacceptable. Corporations should try to educate the local population in emerging economies to make the customers more aware of the virtues of acquiring consumer products. Corporations should not use disinformation to confuse the consumers in an attempt to gain a competitive advantage. Sele, K. (2006, March). Marketing ethics in emerging markets -- Coping with ethical dilemmas. IIMB Management Review, 18(1), 95-104. 4. Participation – Dave I agree with you that the publicity that BP received for committing one of the biggest blunders in the history of mankind is a disgrace. Unfortunately there is a rule in marketing that states that any kind of media coverage irrelevant if is good or bad provides a positive impact to the company in the long run in terms of free publicity. Another example of a company that gained a lot of free publicity for doing a bad act was Nike Corporation during the late 1990’s. The company was involved in a sweatshop scandal that was perceived by the general public as an abuse of power and a disgraceful act considering the prices the company charges for its tennis shoe models. 5. Participation – Article The article Marketing Wisdom for 2006: 110 Marketers & Agencies Share Real Life Tips was a very interesting piece of literature. The topic that I liked the most from the article was the website segment. In this section the author emphasized to trust your marketing instincts and not to be intimidated by technology. The opinion of a software engineer in regards to what should be included in the content of the website is not as important as the recommendation of the marketing department. Other technologies such as CRM system should be welcomed by marketing people

Friday, September 27, 2019

Monetary Policy Coursework 9 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Monetary Policy Coursework 9 - Essay Example This streamlines the business cycle by increasing the output available in the US economy, hence providing surplus goods for exports and subsequent economic growth. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) aims at exploring the achievements of full employment as well as price stability (Econedlink.org, 2015). Therefore, the implementation of the US federal funds rate policy deals with the interest rates at which banks lend funds amongst themselves. The intermediary used by these banks is the Federal Reserve. The goals of the federal funds rate policy are to ensure US economic growth, monitor inflation, and increase employment. The Fed reduced this rate by 0.1% in mid 2014, and the results were diverse. In as much as the inflation rate as at January rose by 0.2%, the unemployment rate reduced by 5.5% in 2015. The US economic growth was positive by 2.2% in the last quarter of 2014. Evidently, the federal funds rate policy achieved its main goals: the reduction of unemployment and the growth of the economy. Econedlink.org,. (2015).  Focus on Economic Data: The Federal Reserve and Monetary Policy, January 29, 2015 | EconEdLink. Retrieved 3 June 2015, from

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Business Risk in an Uncertain Global Economy Essay

Business Risk in an Uncertain Global Economy - Essay Example Thus, in the coming years, such an environment would potentially continue to disturb the business houses across the world. Therefore, so as to remain competitive and preserve their business in such competitive environment, companies have to ascertain that they respond spontaneously and are agile enough to adjust to the changing business environment (Economist Intelligent Intelligence Unit Limited, 2009). Consequently, in an atmosphere where businesses have to encounter continuous change, companies depend on strategic management of their business risk. In this regard, a number of business firms depend on long-term strategies, while on the other hand others rely on short-term policies to deal with the aggressive and demanding business atmosphere (Oliver Wight International, 2008). This paper would focus on the challenges and risks associated in conducting business in an uncertain global economy. The risks can be of various forms and they can be inherent as well as can arise from the di fferent strategies adopted by the business organizations. In addition to comprehending the associated risks and challenges of operating in an unstable economic environment, this paper would emphasize on the various techniques used by financial managers to tackle such business risks while trading and investing in nations outside the firm’s home country. Global Challenges faced in an unstable economic environment As already discussed, business organization can adopt either short term or long term strategies. Both long term and short-term management policies plays a vital role in the efficient business market. However, the business policies that emphasize on escalating the near-term returns are also likely to threaten the enduring financial value of the business by taking up considerable risks and taking in short-range thinking in the business and its numerous operating segments. This is predominantly accurate for firms functioning in the financial industry. The short-term busin ess outlook of companies makes it critical to encounter and tackle the challenges of operating in unstable global economy and can be highly detrimental for the companies themselves. Several researches have illustrated that a vast number of chief financial officers would abstain from possible future economic value in order to realize the investor eagerness and expectations for immediate positive returns. In majority of the cases, the systemic risks, wide-ranging impacts and irreversible costs of short-term management policies are being rated too low or underestimated (Forum for the Future, 2011). To put it in simpler terms, the tangible gains that can be acquired in the immediate future by the execution of short-term policies by and large make the business firms, principally those functioning in the financial services industry to neglect the long-term intangible gains that could help in the enduring sustainability of the firm. In general, it has been widely stated that a big number o f companies have started following a short-term thinking style. However, Brochet et al., (2012) have stated in their editorial named, â€Å"

B300 TMA05 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

B300 TMA05 - Essay Example In a competitive industry, the powerful will exploit the powerless to their advantage in the relentless pursuit of self interest. Buyers exert power through their ability to switch suppliers and/or demand more favorable terms and conditions of their transactions. Suppliers exert power by virtue of their control of important resources, and the resulting ability to raise prices or reduce quality. Technology, although critical to the success of a business, is common in all segments and has lost its core function. Services, software and hardware are easily replicated by suppliers, hampering innovation and decreasing the strategic importance of technology. However, the role of technology in competitive advantage cannot be denied. It is important to note that it is not the technology itself, but how the technology is used and integrated into the business process that creates the competitive advantage among firms. Both iRobot and Dyson belong to an industry which is triggered by consistent innovation of new products. Strategic alliances play an important role in developing competitive advantage in these firms. Strategic alliances play an important part in product development and distribution strategies. They rely on strategic alliances to provide technology, complementary product offerings and speedier access to markets. In a highly competitive market, technology acts as the differentiating factor that sets innovative firms apart from the others. Porter (2001) argues that, companies will gain the competitive advantage only if the use technology to complement their existing business strategies, products and best practices. Companies should use technology as a valuable corporate asset and should differentiate itself from competitors by achieving a sustainable competitive advantage by having low operational costs, value added products, low production costs and excellent customer service. Dyson bulids vaccum cleaners that guarantee no loss of suction by using Root Cyclone technology that separate the dirt from air. Bargaining power of buyers There are a large number of companies competing against each other, in a constant struggle to innovate products that suit customer needs in the varying environment. Customers, therefore, have a variety of products to choose from. Companies differentiate from one another through product innovation and customer service. iRobot strives to continuously improve their robots and exceed customer expectations by delivering highly reliable, high performance robots and providing world class support and service. Dyson makes vaccum cleaners that are guaranteed a life over 5 years by developing them to resist rough circumstances with no extra costs involved. Since buyers are large, they exhibit very little control over the market with lower bargaining power. Firms compete with innovating products that provide unique solutions to customer needs. Firms also provide complimentary products to gain better customer base for their existing products. Bargaining power of suppliers Suppliers for specialized innovative products may not be very large in number and therefore may exhibit much bargaining power. Bargaining power is high for major suppliers of specialized materials and equipment who are

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Conducting a Literature Review; Data Collection Case Study

Conducting a Literature Review; Data Collection - Case Study Example There were almost an equal number of male and female participants who were aged 19 years old and above. The participants were mostly Non-Hispanic Caucasians and only a small number were ethnic minorities such as African-Americans, and Hispanic, among others. They were of varying educational levels. The research employed convenience sampling, gathering related sample by utilizing the patients of Kaiser Permanente Northern California Region. They were all provided a health survey questionnaire which gathered information about their demographic profiles and other behavioral and clinical data. The demographic data served as the study’s independent variables while self-reported frequency of SBMG served as the dependent variable. The independent variables were mostly nominal and ordinal in nature while the dependent variable used the scale level of measurement. These information were then analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and means + SD, and the associated P values. In addition, chi-square statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal-Wallis test, and multivariate logistical regression analysis were likewise used. The results of the study indicate that although most patients reported some level of SMBG monitoring, 60% of those with type 1 diabetes and 67% of those with type 2 diabetes reported practicing SMBG less frequently than recommended by the American Diabetes Association (three to four times daily for type 1 diabetes, and once daily for type 2 diabetes treated pharmacologically). Significant independent predictors of nonadherent practice of SMBG included longer time since diagnosis, less intensive therapy, male sex, age, belonging to an ethnic minority, having a lower education and neighborhood income, difficulty communicating in English, higher out-of-pocket costs for glucometer strips (especially for subjects with lower incomes), smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. This led the researchers to conclude that

Monday, September 23, 2019

Applied Theory of Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Applied Theory of Economics - Essay Example China and India have progressed exponentially, with current estimates clearly showing how they would be the worlds biggest economies in sheer volume by 2050.Countries like South Korea, Taiwan & Singapore, once minor shipping ports are now among the economic elites of the world, on par with any developed nation today. These spectacular developments have been due to the great flexibility the capitalist system has demonstrated in granting everyone a stake in this brave new world. But with all that being said it also has a dark side attached to it as well. Poor nations with poor legislation on labor rights, wages, health & safety, poor government monitoring and manipulation by many rogue corporations over the ages have put into question the humanitarian aspect of trade. Arguing that corporations shifting production capacities elsewhere are susceptible to exploit the labor and other available resources of their host countries. In my humble opinion ,with the exception of a few highly publi cized cases, the net result of free trade for the developing world has been beneficial .It has alleviated poverty on national levels, led to transfer of modes of technology & made the world more cosmopolitan and integrated . Below are some of the arguments that in my opinion reflect very favorably on the effect of free trade on the developing world. Free trade is not just an economic practice it's a way of life, a political philosophy. "A major source of objection to a free economy is precisely that it [...] gives people what they want instead of what a particular group thinks they ought to want." (Friedman, n.p.) Below are in my opinion some points that argue favorably in the case of free trade for the developing world. Free Trades Alleviates Poverty More cannot be said of free trades vitality in increasing the fortunes of developing world. With the every specific shift of a production capacity in that particular or municipality a steady stream of labor is required. By gaining employments workers get means for their livelihoods and purchasing power. The cumulative effect is on a national scale. One can look no further than the birth of middle class in China & India. They alone have been a major factor in stimulating their local economies with their spending patterns. Free Trade Removes Likeliness of War it's no secret that all commerce flourishes in peaceful times. Especially in this integrated world when there are vested interests in another countries well being. Although the incidence of war hasn't been totally eliminated, by and large majority of the world the developing world has enjoyed prosperity over the decades. In fact, so many nations have entered into regional pacts to gain access to each others markets, to remove import quotas & for freer flow of resources in between their borders. All of these points which are the cornerstone of the Free Trade phenomenon. And in turn Organizations geared towards the free market ideal such as NAFTA (North American Free Trade Organization), EU (European Union) & WTO (World Trade Organization) have shown resounding success since the time of their

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Air pollution in Beijing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Air pollution in Beijing - Essay Example As this has occurred, countless thousands of factories have been erected to support this growth and to keep up with the increased demand. In the end, this has resulted in an unstable equation when considering pollution and the environment. It is well documented that pollution is a problem, particularly for the very old and very young among us. Pollution can upset the state of the ecosystem, cause children to miss out of valuable outside playtime, prohibit adults from free exercising, and contribute to a host of long-term illnesses such as cancer and breathing problems. There are many factors contributing to the pollution in Beijing, many being attributed back to the massive growth in the urban sector and the burgeoning number of factories and automobiles operating within the city. Couple that with the growing deforestation to make way for more buildings and urban development, and it does not take long realize the seriousness of the pollution issue in Beijing, China. This paper will d iscuss the problem of pollution in Beijing, its effect on the general population, and the problem that it poses for the environment if recent trends are not reversed. The Problem of Pollution Pollution is causing numerous problems in Beijing City. The situation affects the ecosystem and the health and safety of every person residing with the city limits. Ma, Lu, and Sun (2008) sum up the severity of the problem by pointing out, â€Å"The landscape pattern change in Beijing led by rapid urbanization has negatively influenced urban ecosystem health and has caused several environmental problems† (326). It is important that these issues be discussed openly, solutions proposed and implement, and that everyone does their part to begin to reverse the recent trends of over polluted air. Beginning with the changing landscape best approaches the problem. The past half-century has seen Beijing gradually lose must of its land to over development. Not only has this building boom created a n overabundance of polluting agents in the air, but it has deteriorated the very ecosystem that is designed to give new life to the city and to help rid the air of those very particles that cause damage (Ma, Lu, & Sun 327). While it is true that 50% of the world now live in Cities (United Nations, 2005), China far surpasses even this fact. It is important to examine the factors that lead up to the current pollution problem in Beijing by examining the reasons why the cities within the country has expanded so. China has the largest population in the world. This population explosion in the past century has greatly contributed to the rapid urbanization of its cities, and urban areas have seen record percentages of population growth. Beijing is not only the capital of China, but it is the third largest city in the country and it continues to grow and develop at a frightening and frantic pace. It is estimated that the urban density within Beijing itself is now up to a staggering 84.3%, wh ich is the second highest in China and one of the highest in the world (Ma, Lu, & Sun 328). In just the last 20 years, this urbanization and population growth has drastically changed the entire landscape pattern of the city, causing pollution to become an even greater problem as the pollutants simply have no where to go. The Chinese are notoriously quiet about problems existent in their communities, but recently there has been a public uproar against the air

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Natural sites Essay Example for Free

Natural sites Essay The choice of a venue or a site plays a very important role as long as tourism is concerned . The location and the type of sceneries found in a particular place will determine the number of tourists who will be interested in venturing into such a place. This determines the revenue that will be generated as far as that venue is concerned. A site can either be described as natural or manmade. Natural sites or venues are those that owe their existence to the nature man has played very little role for their existence. Manmade venues on the other hand exist because man has played a role through constructing them. Modern tourists look for a package that will satisfy their curiosity while at the same time offer their mind and soul a refreshing opportunity. They also look for a package that will fit their budget without compromising much on the quality. A unique venue is not only attractive to the masses but also offers an opportunity to explore what lies on the other se of the world. Availability of such a site makes an area popular and gives it a place in the world map where people will always associate it with positive things. There are different types of venues at disposal for a tourist to enjoy. Venues available in a given area largely depend on a number of factors. (Adam, H 1997) These factors include: the climate, history of the area, the heritage, geographical conditions among other factors. The most common sites all over the world include the beaches, montains, rivers and animal watching sites such as national parks and orphanages. Uniqueness of a site is determined by the type of sceneries or the availability of rare animals that are either extinct or can only be found in that particular area. There are sites which are described as unique due to the history associated with the particular place The great walls of china are unique in nature as they offer a tourist a chance to get in touch with China history while at the same time connecting with the people of China through understanding what they have gone through. Beaches is the tropics are sites that are very popular with tourists especially from countries that experience winter they attract many men and women who would like to escape harsh weather conditions and enjoy the sun. (Adam, H 1997) These areas are described as unique venues since they have a characteristic that can only be found in these areas. One gets to know and experiences the type of weather that is different from what he or she is used to. This gives a tourist a chance to relax and enjoy fresh air while at the same time getting the necessary warmth that helps in the body metabolism. The pyramids in Egypt are unique as they are in a class of their own offering a type of scenery that can not be compared with any other site in the world. The pyramids being the only wonder of the seven unique wonders of the world that is still in existence is unique as it represents part of history that shaped the world as it is believed this part of the world is the cradle of civilization in the world. Another unique package that is gaining prominence in many parts of the world is the offering a quality type of entertainment for the tourist. This can be in form of dances, song and other forms of entertainment. Tourism frequents these areas due to the type of entertainment that is offered. This type of tourism is referred to as creative tourism which exists as cultural tourism. This is an active type of tourism where tourists actively participate in the cultural activities of the host country. (Sydney, R 2003) This comes in form of performances, interactive workshops and other experiences which are educative in nature. It is attractive and unique in nature such that it attracts people who are willing to spend their money on them. It also offers people a chance to learn new thing and also appreciate other people’s culture. So this type of tourism can be said to promote world peace and integration since people learn to be tolerant to one another and at the same time appreciating the uniqueness of different cultures. This is very common in areas where culture has been retained and there is very little influence from the outside world. Africa at large offers this type of package where tourists from the west and other parts of the world visit different cultures to familiarize themselves with what transpires in them The most visited tourist attractions are largely the most unique venues in the world. They are popular with the masses and a lot of revenue is collected. Many visitors frequent these areas due the type of sceneries at disposal and also due to how the product is presented to the general public. This means that advertising is very crucial as far as promotion of a unique site is concerned. This is done to educate the masses of existence of such a site, what to expect in the attraction and how the site can be accessed among many other tips that potential tourists are given. Conference tourism is becoming very popular today with millions being collected all over the world through targeting the working class and business executives. This type of tourism largely targets the corporate world. Hotels and conference facilities are the biggest beneficiaries. Corporations organize workshops and conferences for their employees and customers and during the entire time that this will be happening they need food and accommodation. This calls for conferences facilities and lodges that will offer services to these people. Hotels and lodges that offer a unique opportunity to its client to enjoy its facilities will be a popular joint and its profit will be higher. (Sydney, R 2003) The uniqueness of this type of tourism is that it mixes business with pleasure as those attending the conferences tend to get a taste of what the host town or country has to offer. Hotels are main pillars of the tourism as without them tourist would not be spending away from there locations. There are people who visit a particular place just to sample the type of food enjoyed in a particular place. Therefore with good hotels that offer quality services tourist will always frequent such an area due to the good reputation the hotel has acquired. Other unique venues include the animal parks; they offer a very rare opportunity to watch animals of different types in their natural environment. This type of scenario is common in the African countries especially the sub-Saharan countries where animals still exist in their natural environment. The parks in South Africa are unique venues where different types of animals’ co exist in environments that have not been tampered with by man. Watching animals in their homes is a rare opportunity that is worth venturing as it is not only educative but also refreshing as well. (Wabers, K 1994) Of late the number of tourist frequenting these sites has increased dramatically. This can only be attributed with people’s quest to learn more about nature and primarily familiarize themselves with different type of animals that exist in the world. Unique parks in this part of the world grant tourist a rare opportunity to interact with the nature while at the same time getting relaxed from the hassle and bustle of the busy world (Veraget, M 2002) Mountains in different parts of the world have been popular destination for many tourists. There are people who are obsessed with mountaineering such that they have aimed at climbing all the tall mountains in the world. Mountains are beautiful and apart from playing a role in shaping the earth they have contributed immensely towards income generation in many parts of the world as tourists attractions sites. From Himalayans in Asia to Andes and Appalachians in America mountains give such breathtaking scenery that leaves one wanting for more. The snow capped mountains of Africa and Asia illuminate the land giving it such beautiful scenery that attracts people from as far as Australia who come to watch what nature has to offer. (Veraget, M 2002) Water also offers a beautiful venue where people enjoy themselves through swimming, fishing and different types of water sports. From oceans to the seas lakes and the rivers almost all the parts of the earth are bestowed with these water storage bodies that not only quench our thirst but also satisfy us with the type of scenarios they offer and the opportunities they give us to flex our muscles. Water bodies not only provide an abode for the sea animals but also give man an opportunity to enjoy himself and at the same time make money. (Sandra, L 1999) Other unique venues include the museums and historical site which house the heritage of our countries and our community. They also attract people of all walks of lifes, those who are interested in learning about their heritage and the past. (Sydney, R 2003) All these unique venues have a great effect on our lives, the in a way shape our economy as they contribute a good chunk of money as a lot of revenue is generated from tourist related activities. We need to preserve these sites so that we can continue reaping benefits from them and also our future generation can have a taste of what nature has to offer. If we take care of them they will definitely make us proud as many people from different parts of the world will be flocking our land so that they can have to enjoy the creation in its best way. Unique venues will continue to the hope for the tourism as man will always aim at discovering what lies beyond the borders and the special opportunities that can make him advance. We stand to continue making progress as far as tourism is concerned if we utilize the unique sites to our advantage and at the same time keep up with times and try to discover other venues that will continue satisfying the tourists.Its only through innovations that dollars from the tourism will continue flowing Reference: Adam, H. 1997. The Unique Tourist Site in the World. Atlanta, Collins. Sydney, R. 2003. Tourism in the World London. Oxford University Press. Veraget, M. 2002. The Unique Sites in Africa Nairobi. Macmillan Publishers. Sandra, L. and Veraget, M. 2002. Tour and Travel: World Perspective. Sydney, Odessey Wabers, K. 1994. The Historical Sites. Paris, Magnated. .

Friday, September 20, 2019

Looking At The Social Welfare Legislation Social Work Essay

Looking At The Social Welfare Legislation Social Work Essay Social workers, as a profession, exist in a contested domain, within a framework of rights and duties that are defined by law, by employers and professional codes of conduct (Swaine and Rice, 2009: xi). To be effective a social worker must have an understanding of statutory and legal requirements, and while using the law attempt to balance conflicting principles and practices. It is important to note that the law does not tell us what we ought to do, just what we can do most decisions in social work involve a complex interaction of ethical, political, technical and legal issues which are all interconnected (Banks 1995). In answering this question I intend to focus on the Children Acts 1989 and 2004 detailing the background to the acts and applying them to the Smith case study. The courts in England are managed by Her Majestys Courts Service, an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice (Brammer 2010). The courts are divided into criminal and civil courts. Criminal courts deal with criminal cases and civil courts deal with non-criminal disputes. The role that  social workers play in courts can be broken down into public law and private law. Public law cases are circumstances where the state, acting through local authority social services, takes steps to intervene in family life. This includes applications for care orders, supervision orders and emergency protection orders. Proceedings where individuals bring cases in their own name are known as private law cases. Contact and residence cases, applications for specific issues orders, prohibited steps orders; parental responsibility and adoption are examples of private law cases. The English court structure is hierarchical with the Supreme Court at the top and the Magistrates Court and Tribunals at the bot tom. This means that cases are seen in the inferior courts first before proceeding, when necessary, to the superior courts. A decision made in the Supreme Court would bind all inferior courts. Social workers can be involved at all levels of the court structure and undertake tasks such as writing reports, appearing as witnesses, or providing support to a service user. As such it is essential for social workers to have a good understanding of the law as it applies to their role. Most court proceedings are held in public in accordance with Article 6 of the Human Rights Act 1998, everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing. However, in certain circumstances the public and press are excluded and cases are heard privately or in camera (Brammer 2010:65). For social work practice the Human Rights Act 1998 provides an opportunity to empower service users and professionals while promoting best practice, as well as an extra layer of responsibility (Cull and Roche 2001:80). Local authorities can no longer use budgetary constraints as justification for decisions as discretionary policies and decisions can be challenged on the basis of an alleged breach of human rights. (Cull and Roche, 2001). The Human rights Act 1998 incorporates the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms into UK domestic law (Brammer 2010). The European Convention for Human Rights contains rights, prohibitions and freedoms arranged in articles. The focus of the Human Rights Act 1998 is to promote and uphold rights contained in these articles and it provides opportunities to promote anti-discriminatory practice. Social workers legal areas of responsibility are classified as duties or powers. Social services are obliged to carry out a duty. There is no discretion or allowance and failure to carry out a duty could found an action for judicial review (Brammer 2010:17). For example, under section 47 of the Children Act 1989 local authorities have a duty to investigate if they have have reasonable cause to suspect that a child who lives, or is found, in their area is suffering, or is likely to suffer, significant harm (Children Act 1989, Section 47(b)). Powers give a social worker the authority to act in a particular way but there is discretion to decide how to act. For example, a local authority has power to make payments to parents in respect of travelling, subsistence or other expenses incurred by that person in visiting the child (Para. 16 of Sch. 2 to the Childrens Act 1989). Specific pieces of legislation are more relevant to social workers in their specific roles. The Children Acts 1989 and 2004 are of particular relevance to those working with children and families. Prior to the implementation of the Children Act 1989 the law as it related to children was found in various acts and judicial hearings. The Children Act 1989 combined and simplified existing legislation in order to create an enlightened and practical framework for decision-making, whether the decision is taken in the family home, in a local authority office, in a health centre or in a court room (Allen, 1998, quoted in Cull 2001). Various forces led to the implementation of the Children Act 1989. Firstly, the need to address numerous child abuse and child death scandals such as Maria Colwell and Jasmine Beckford. Central themes that emerged from inquiries into the deaths of these children were the need for better cohesion between agencies to better protect children and consideration of the childs welfare as paramount (OLoughlin and OLoughlin 2008). Such themes subsequently emerged in the Laming Inquiry (2003) following the death of Victoria Climbie, and other subsequent inquiries. These continual failures seem to indicate that the Children Act 1989 does not seem to be fulfilling its purpose. Secondly, international commitments made to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989 meant the need to provide legislation highlighting the importance of childrens rights. The Children Act 1989 recognised the right of children to have their voices heard in the decision-making process and made provisions for childrens guardians to be appointed by the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS) representing the child and the childs interests in court (Children Act 1989, s.41). Under section 44(7) of the act children of sufficient age and understanding were enabled to refuse to undergo medical assessment, something that the children involved in the Cleveland Inquiry (1988) had not been able to do (OLoughlin and OLoughlin 2008). The Act gave flexibility to the court to meet individual childrens needs in particular circumstances and to act in the best interests of that child (Brammer, 2010). The Children Act 1989 brought together public and private law to ensure that the welfare of the child is paramount (OLoughlin and OLoughlin, 2008:21) and reaffirmed the belief that children were best brought up within their families, with minimal intervention from the state (Brayne and Carr, 2008). In response to the Laming Report (2003) into the death of Victoria Climbià © the government published the Green Paper, Every Child Matters. This document had four key themes; more focus on supporting families and carers, timely intervention and protecting children from falling through the net; addressing issues of poor accountability and ensuring that childcare workers are valued, rewarded and trained (Brayne and Carr, 2008). The Children Act 2004 was passed following consultation on this Green Paper. It provides the legislative framework required to address the issues highlighted in the Laming report. Its main aim was to develop more effective and accessible services focused around the needs of children, young people and their families (Brayne and Carr, 2008 p.155). The main provisions of the Children Act 2004 include a duty to co-operate to improve the wellbeing of children, especially in light of failings by multiple agencies to protect children like Victoria Climbià ©. Under th e Act local authorities have a duty to make arrangements to improve wellbeing and partner agencies have a duty to co-operate with local authorities. To enhance the duty of agencies to co-operate Section 8 of the Children Act 2004 imposes the duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. Agencies are encouraged to prioritise their responsibilities to children and share early concerns in order to prevent crises. Legislation in the 2004 Act requires that all agencies in contact with children recognize that their needs are different from those of adults and safeguard and promote their wellbeing in the course of their normal duties. Section 17 of the Children Act 2004 introduced the requirement for local authorities to produce Children and Young peoples Plans (CYPP). The CYPP should be the single, strategic, overarching plan for all services and all relevant partners (Brayne and Carr, 2008 p.160). The 1989 Act focused on child protection, the key term in the 2004 Act is safeguar ding. Child protection is linked to legally based state intervention, safeguarding is a means of ensuring that children receive the support that they need for their wellbeing (Brayne and Carr, 2008 p.161). The Children Act 2004 required the establishment of Local Safeguarding Childrens Boards in order to promote better collaboration between agencies in safeguarding the wellbeing of children; the creation of an information database known as Contact Point to facilitate contact between professionals involved with individual children to secure early, coherent intervention (Brayne and Carr, 2008 p. 163); and the appointment of childrens services directors in childrens services authorities to ensure political leadership and accountability for the performance of childrens services (Brayne and Carr, 2008 p. 164).The Childrens Act of 1989 and 2004 have both gradually endeavoured to develop legislation and administrative roles to do with children in a broader sense and to make official provision for children better and safer. With the Children Act 2004 the functions of social services did not change but how they are delivered has been modified. (OLoughlin and OLoughlin, 2008) The Children Act 1989 outlines the responsibilities that local authorities have towards children in their area. Practice is guided by three underlying principles. Firstly, enforced intrusion into family life should be avoided wherever possible. Secondly, local authorities should work in partnership with parents and provide support to try to keep families together. Lastly, local authority resources should be targeted on families in need to ensure support is available to avoid children suffering ill-treatment or neglect and in extreme circumstances being taken into care (Cull 2001). With the Smith family the starting point under the Children Acts 1989 and 2004 must be to help safeguard and promote the welfare of Andrew and Annie. Under section 47 of the Children Act 1989 if the local authority have reasonable cause to suspect that a child who lives or is found in their area is suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm, they must take such enquiries as they consider necessary to enable them to decide whether they should take any action to safeguard or promote the childs welfare (Children Act 1989, s.47 (1) (b)). Enquiries made are the beginning of a process and the intention is to decide whether or not action is necessary. Effectiveness of the assessment of the childs needs (and those of the family) is key to the effectiveness of subsequent actions and services and ultimately to the outcomes for the child (Department of Health et al., 2000b). A social worker carrying out this assessment must do so in a manner that causes the least distress to Annie and Andrew, while being respectful to Clare and David. Families affected by parental learning disability are also particularly likely to experience negative attitudes, and worse, from those with whom they come into contact (Department of Health 2007).Practicing in an anti-discriminatory manner would require not making assumptions about David and Clares parenting due to their learning disability. In order to work in partnership with the parents as the Children Act requires the social worker must ensure that the parents do not feel marginalised by explaining the purpose of the investigation and the likely outcomes. How the investigation is handled could affect the relationship between the family and social services and the way the family view input from professionals and other agencies that may become involved. The Children Act 1989 introduced the terms children in need and looked after children and comprised various duties to promote the welfare of such children (Brammer, 2010). The Act even went further by putting in place provisions for children leaving care (Brammer, 2010). Looked after children refers to children who are subject to care orders and those who are voluntarily accommodated by the local authority. Children are considered to be in need if they are unlikely to achieve or maintain a reasonable standard of health or development without intervention by the local authority; health or development is likely to be impaired or further impaired without local authority support; they are disabled (s. 17 (10) Children Act 1989). Local authorities have specific duties to children considered to be in need. As both David and Clare are known to professionals it is possible that the children have already been classified as in need. In this case the local authority has a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of such children, provide services appropriate to their needs and ascertain and give consideration to the wishes of the child/ren (Children Act 1989, s.17, as amended). Following a section 47 investigation if it is deemed necessary the local authority would also have the power to provide training, advice, guidance and counselling for David and Clare (Cull 2001). David and Clare have co-operated so far and if this remains to be the case the local authority will carry out its duties in partnership with David and Clare, until no further formal intervention is required. It is particularly important to avoid a situation where poor parental care, which does not meet the threshold of significant harm to a child, later declines because of a lack of support. Failure to provide support in this type of situation can damage a childs right to remain with their family (Department of Health, 2007). If the Smith case was considered an emergency it would be possible to apply to court for an Emergency Protection Order (EPO), this would allow for immediate compulsory intervention in order to protect the child/ren (s. 44, Children Act 1989). Those with parental responsibility must be given a minimum of one days notice of impending action; however, action can be taken without notice. If the parents are not present at the initial application for the EPO they have the right to challenge the basis of the intervention after 72 hours. The order lasts a maximum of eight days, but can be extended for a further seven days following application. The applicant has parental responsibility of the child for the duration of the order. This is very much a control aspect of the act as the parents rights are removed in order to safeguard the child. The child must be returned as soon as it is safe to do so. (s. 44(10) Children Act 1989). The need for an EPO can arise when the referral is received or a t any point in the involvement with children and families. Such an order seems to contradict Article 8 of the Human Rights Act 1998(Right to private family life). Although important it may prove difficult to balance David and Clares right to private and family life while protecting the childrens right not to be subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment (Article 3, Human Rights Act 1998). If the out of hours social worker had initially failed to gain access to the children to initiate an investigation but concerns were not urgent the local authority could apply to court for a Child Assessment Order (CAO) (Children Act 1989, s. 43). The order would supplement to powers of the social worker in assessing the child. A court can only grant a CAO if there is reasonable cause to suspect the child is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm and that assessment is required to ascertain if this is the case; without the order it is unlikely that assessment can be carried out. A CAO may give direction on how an order is to be carried out, for example, directing that children be kept away from home, or giving direction for a medical assessment to be carried out. With this particular order parental responsibility remains with the parents. Only a local authority or the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children can apply for a CAO. In some circumstances it may be necessary to separate the child from an alleged abuser. As it may be considered too distressing and confusing to remove the child from the home the Family Law Act 1996 amended the Children Act 1989, giving the court power to order the removal of an alleged abuser from the home. In order for Exclusion Orders (EO) to be made the court must be satisfied that there is reasonable cause to believe that if the person is removed the child will no longer suffer or be likely to suffer significant harm. The court must be satisfied that there is someone else willing and capable of caring for the child and that they consent to the exclusion requirement. Four principles generally apply to all orders under the Children Act 1989: paramountcy of the welfare of the child (s1 (1)); reducing delay (S1 (2)) to avoid prejudicing the welfare of the child (in this respect many of the orders that could be granted by the court had specific time limits); no order unless consider ed in the best interests of the child (s1 (5)) and limiting litigation (s91 (14)) (Open University, 2003). The Children Act 1989 provides a welfare checklist s.1 (3) detailing what factors a court has to consider in certain proceedings relating to children. This list includes issues such as the childs wishes/needs, sex, background, etc. Although the law is attempting to impose control when applying an order it also attempts to provide some balance and promote anti-discriminatory practice with children and families. The relationship between social work practice and the law is an extremely complex and ever-changing one. The law is constantly developing especially with the influence of the Human Rights Act 1998 becoming more visible in court decisions. As a result social workers must have an understanding of how the law applies to practice situations recognising the strengths as well as the limitations of applying the law. Sound knowledge of the law is not only essential to ensure that the actions undertaken are legal and proportionate, such knowledge is essential for the social workers own professional protection (Brammer 2010: Foreword by Andrew McFarlane).