London, New York and Tokyo as Global Cities Research Paper

London, New York and Tokyo as Global Cities - Research Paper Example Founded by the Romans, London stands on River Thames and has acted as a key settlement spot for almost two millennia (Beaverstock 114). New York City, located in New York State in the Northeastern expanse of the United States, is the state’s and nation’s most populous city. Courtesy of New York City, New York State is presently the United States’ largest and busiest immigration gateway. Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, is also the world’s largest metropolitan area and among Japan’s 47 prefectures. Ancient history suggests that Tokyo was a fishing village in the 15th century, but has evolved through being a cultural, religious and military stronghold to its present economic giant status. Presently, Tokyo is home to the Imperial Family of Japan and the government’s headquarters. In the context of â€Å"global cities†, London, New York and Tokyo lead the world, and are classified as Alpha++ cities. Alpha++ cities are the most globally integrated cities with other. In this perspective, global cities form critical nodes in the worldwide economic framework (U.S. Census Bureau 96). The first part of this paper will provide a brief historical background and overall economic profile of the three cities. Then, it will examine the details of size and diversity of the population and labor migration of the three cities. ... In 1176, a new stone bridge replaced the wooden one built by the Romans. During the reign of Edward III, London became a true capital (Beaverstock 121). Economic Profile Presently, finance remains the largest industry in London, with financial exports contributing largely to the balance payments of the United Kingdom. This makes it a key economic and commercial center for multiple interests on the international business platform, ranking fifth among the world’s largest city economies. In 2012, its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was estimated at slightly above $ 731 billion. Per capita GDP for the same year was at $51,798 (U.S. Census Bureau 78). With its economic profile, London as a city has been generating about 20 percent of the entire United Kingdom’s GDP for the past decade, while the metropolitan area on its own generates 30 percent. As per statistics at the beginning of 2013, with over 841,000 businesses in the private sector, London had the highest number business es than all other regions and countries in the United Kingdom. Out of the private sector businesses, 30 percent are collectively in the professional, technical, scientific and construction industries, forming a significant part of the small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The major business districts are, in ascending order, Lambeth & Southwark, Canary Wharf, Camden & Islington, Westminster and The City, where economic activities range from accountancy to legal, real estate, architecture and government operations (Scheltema & Westerhuijs 69). Size and Diversity of the Population Between the 16th and 19th centuries, London’s population grew from 50,000 to 900,000 in spite of unhealthy

Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist Views on Benevolence Essay Example for Free

Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist Views on Benevolence Essay Benevolence can be defined as the moral inclination to be kind and compassionate. If people could control their malicious behaviors and focus on participating in acts that are solely beneficial to humanity, the earth would be much more prosperous. Being kind to others gives us a feeling of contentment that is otherwise unattainable. Receiving compassion and kindness provides us with a sense of gratitude and wellness that many cannot help but share with others. No one enjoys being the subject of someone else’s ill will. This is why moral codes such as (but not limited to) Buddhism, Confucianism/Taoism have emerged. If everyone followed any one of the previously stated practices, it would be much easier for humans to grow and develop as a whole because there would be fewer causes of our discontentment. The Buddhists’ ultimate goal is to end suffering by achieving enlightenment, or nirvana (Kessler, pg. 186). Benevolence is indefinitely required to reach this state. Enlightenment can only be obtained by recognizing the Four Noble Truths. This basically states that life is suffering, which is the result of bad karma caused by malevolent actions that are driven by natural human desires. The end of desire will inevitably be the end of suffering. The only way to end suffering is by following in the footsteps of Siddhartha Gautama’s enlightenment (Kessler, pg. 166). This method of bringing an end to suffering is otherwise known as the Eightfold Path, or the Way of the Buddha. In order to obtain the same enlightenment, Buddhists are required to uphold a strict set of rules regarding the way to behave as a beneficial member of society, including â€Å"right view, right thought, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right meditati on.† (Kessler, pg. 224). The most devout Buddhist possesses immense self-control and discipline in attempt to live the purest, least harmful existence possible. A good example of the ideal Buddhist is the bodhisattva. Bodhisattvas have reached the ultimate level of moral purity, kindness, and compassion toward the world and therefore live to relieve people from suffering (Kessler, pg. 170). Concerning overall kindness and compassion, the fate and preservation of the entire world should be taken into account before performing any act. No living being should ever be harmed or killed. One should never steal from another, but may receive gifts openly. Buddhists should be chaste, truthful, and fair. They are required to keep peace among people if necessary. A devout Buddhist would never speak to someone in a discourteous manner, including sharing erroneous information (Kessler, pg. 185). This moral code practiced by Bodhisattvas is directly concerned with the wellbeing of the world through good deeds, which leads to the end of eternal suffering, according to the previously stated teachings of the Buddha. Another influential teacher of morality and obtaining widespread human prosperity is Confucianism. The Way, or Tao, is the Confucian concept of human nature. The Mandate of Heaven is dictated by the fact that humans, by nature, want to obtain balance and harmony in the world, which is possible beginning with harmony within the self. Harmony within one’s self leads to harmony among other people, which results in the harmony of natural phenomenon, and thus the world is harmonious. This requires that all human emotional conditions be in balance. Although the notion is truly inconceivable, this can be most closely described as the Confucian concept of heaven. People must be understanding and compassionate towards one another, and make sacrifices for the greater good. When this is achieved, human flourishing is then possible. People are either intelligent enough to possess the sincerity of the way, or they can be instructed to do so. Humans are all capable of making a contribution toward achieving the order of the Way, which results in spiritual salvation (Kessler, pg. 242-243). The most important way this goal is to be achieved by the followers of Confucian teachings is through sacrifice. An honorable person intends to sacrifice in order to spread good will to the earth. This helps emphasize the responsibilities all humans have to maintain peace and harmony in the world for the well being of everyone (Kessler, pg. 240). Humans are born into different ranks, which must be taken into consideration, but the overall goal of Confucian teaching is to uphold the moral obligation of goodness. Elders and authority figures are to be respected in accordance to the Confucian way. For example, a child is respectful to a parent because both are needed to maintain balance in the family. This plays a crucial role in the functionality of the family unit. The same notion can be applied to the citizen and his governing body. The citizen is obedient to the government because defiant behavior would lead to chaos (Kessler, pg. 242). The Buddhist and Confucian doctrines are similar in many ways. The ultimate goal of both sets of teachings is the same: human benevolence leads to moral salvation and the well being of humanity. Renunciation plays a major role in the overall intention of both parties. The crucial difference between the two is the source of the regarded texts. Confucians’ fate is subject to the government no matter what. They pay respect to all people, but understand the necessity to respect the upper class because they play a major part in the well being of the whole. The elders and authority figures â€Å"take care† of the younger or less fortunate. Buddhists focus more on solitude and undergoing suffering for the greater good. They go as far as to give up normal eating habits as to refrain from any selfish behavior that may lead to bad karma. Confucians also undergo suffering, but do not give up basic human desires for the benefit of others. They are undeniably considerate. Any feeling that one would not enjoy feeling would never be bestowed upon someone else. No form of extreme asceticism required of Confucians as it is sometimes in Buddhism. Rather, Confucian success is more important to human flourishing. Although true, both moral concepts have the same intended outcome of benevolence toward everyone. Works Cited Kessler, Gary E. Ways of Being Religious. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield Pub., 2000. 166+. Print.

Essay --

Five thousand years ago lived the immoral societies of Sodom and Gomorrah in the Middle East. The people of these corrupt cities were sinners who lead luxurious lives and seemed like they had it all, even though soon they would lose everything. Their immorality and lack of awareness is what caused God to send fire from the heavens and destroy the towns as punishment. Parallels can be drawn from ancient times to the story of The Great Gatsby. Fitzgerald uses the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg to symbolize God watching down and to express the theme of immorality in society and the loss of spiritual values in the American dream. Symbolism is a key part of this passage in revealing the author’s purpose. It becomes apparent that the eyes are symbols when our narrator says, â€Å"The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are blue and gigantic-their retinas are one yard high. They look out of no face, but instead, from a pair of enormous yellow spectacles which pass over a non-existent nose,† (24). The significance of these eyes can be noted from their first introduction. The eyes are more than just a faded picture on a billboard; underneath the eerie description lies a deeper meaning. Doctor T.J. Eckelburg’s eyes symbolize God watching down on the Valley of Ashes, judging over society and their actions. The colossal eyes are all seeing and all knowing, scrutinizing all the corrupt lifestyles and values amongst the characters in Gatsby. Fitzgerald’s use of diction in creating the mood centering around T.J. Eckleburg’s eyes supports the immorality and the carelessness seen in the community. Nick goes on to state, â€Å"But his eyes, dimmed a little by many paintless days under the sun and rain, brood on over the solemn dumping ground,† (24). This lin... ...ths, which can be thought of as a punishment from God. Throughout the novel, Fitzgerald instills the theme of immorality using the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg. These eyes, representing God, dispatch judgment and punishment on society. However the lives of the characters continue, because God has given them a second chance in hopes of changing their immoral ways. This gift was also given to a man named Lot, who escaped death by the grace of God five thousand years ago in the city of Sodom. Thought he wouldn’t live forever, he had a new take on life and a chance to turn his back on immorality. The same can be thought of for the characters of Gatsby-they will continue trudging on with their lives, hopefully having learned a lesson from the consequences of immorality, and if they don’t, they eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg will always be there as a constant reminder.

Project Recommendation Email Essay

  We have three project proposals to consider in next week’s Project Management Office’s (PMO) Review. Piper Industries Corp. needs the projects to be complete and to be generating review within 12 months of next week’s PMO Review. Wendell Deirelein, our vice-president, has assigned your team to analyze the three projects below and make a recommendation on which project the company should invest in. The recommendation must include your team description of the five phases of the project and the key deliverables (project completion date and cost) for each project. Project Code Name: Juniper †¢This is an enhancement of a current widget being offered by our company. †¢Risk of completion of this project on time is low. †¢Product plan shows the critical path to be 6 months at a cost of $325,000 to bring the product to market. †¢Product is forecasted to have a ROI of $250,000 for a period of 2 to 3 years. †¢The third year is forecasted to be the end of life for this product line due to advances projected in technology. †¢This is a standard product line that marketing believes many customers will want to purchase. Project Code Name: Palomino †¢This is a new line of widget products including enhancements using existing technology. †¢Risk for completion of this project on time is medium. †¢Production plan shows the critical path to be 9 months at a cost of $655,000 to bring the product to market. †¢Product is forecasted to have a ROI of $450,000 for a period of 5 years. †¢This product will be a custom part for one of your strategic customers—historically the forecasts from this customer have a 5% margin of error. †¢The seventh year is forecasted to be the end of life for this product by the customer. Project Code Name: Stargazer †¢Research and development has already started on our new widgets. The company has spent $450,000 on this product so far and the estimate to bring this product to market is $575,000. †¢Risk of completing this project on time is high. †¢Product is forecasted to have ROI of $300,000 first year; $550,000 the second year; and $750,000 the third year. †¢The product life is forecasted to be 7 years for this product. (This forecast included derivative product which will cost more). †¢By delivering such an innovative product to the market place first, your organization will be seen as a leader in this industry. †¢Your sales and marketing teams have discussed this type of product with a few of your strategic customers; while some are interested, there are many questions about the business. Sincerely, Ray Gritsch Piper Industries Corporation

Automated Qualifying Entrance Examination Essay

CHAPTER I BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY Introduction â€Å"Technology can change the way students think, learn and revolutionize,† says the Chief Executive Officer on Education and Technology (Courte, 2005). Technology also calls for broadening the definition of student achievement to include digital-age literacy, inventive thinking, effective communication and high productivity-skills necessary for students to thrive in the 21st century. According to the report, technology can help deliver significant results when combine with other key factors known to increase achievement, such as clear, measurable objectives; parental and community involvement; increase time spent on task; frequent feedback; and the teacher’s subject-matter expertise. In this age of computers, many educators see it as inevitable that students will someday learn in classrooms without walls, desks, or face-to-face contact with teachers. The gradual degeneration of the conventional examination system manifested in frequent leakage of question papers, manipulation of marks, copying and use of unfair means by all involved (administration not ruled out). This conventional examination system was also referred to as paper-and-pencil tests. This is a fixed-item test in which the student and/or examinee answer the same questions. Fixed-item test waste students’ time because they give students a large number of items that are either too easy or too difficult. As a result, the tests give little information about the particular level of ability of each student. With recent advancement in measurement theory and the increased availability of microcomputers in schools, the practice of using electronic examination system may change. Computerized tests may replace paper-and-pencil tests in some instances. These scenarios triggered the researchers to conduct and Electronic Qualifying Examination that would be beneficial to the College of Science. The system being studied would facilitate the systematic storage, updating and retrieval of pertinent examinee data as well as checking and scoring of examinee answers to test questions. It is also able to generate reports of  ratings and statistics of the test scores. However, it does not monitor the users’ actions and event to block the users. Statement of the Problem Generally, this study sought to determine the operations and performance of an Electronics Qualifying Examination System Compared with the traditional qualifying examination procedure and process. Specifically, it endeavored to answer the following questions: 1. What are the existing problems being encountered on the current conventional qualifying examination? 2. What will be the design of an electronic qualifying examination system in terms of the following: 2.1 Process; 2.2 Data; 2.3 Language; 3. What is the level of acceptability of the proposed system in the College of Science? Objective of the Study In general, this study aimed to determine the performance and operation of an Electronic Qualifying Examination System compare with the current qualifying examination procedure and process. In particular, it envisioned to: 1. Determine the existing problems being encountered on the current conventional qualifying examination; 2. Design an Electronic Qualifying Examination System in terms of the following. 2.1 Process; 2.2 Data; 2.3 Language; and, 3. Ascertain the level of acceptability of the proposed system in the College of Science. Scope and Limitation of the Study This study was conducted in the College of Science, University of Eastern  Philippines. It is limited only to the performance of the specified functions such as scheduling, the actual examination and the retrieval of the examination results. It is meant to assist the users, especially the examination personnel to meet the needs of the students or applicants. If at present, the facilities and equipment of the College of Science are inadequate, this system may be used in the future. The proposed system was drawn randomly. It will not monitor the user action and even block the user. Moreover, the system will not suggest what would be the appropriate course does the examinee will take. The system does not guarantee complete benefits to all users. This may be bound to happen that some of them might experience technical difficulties that are not covered by the system such as the malfunctioning of the computer. Such scenarios are beyond the control of the system. Nevertheless, this will be more comprehensive and interesting if this will be introduced or presented covering the other services of the College. Significance of the Study The Electronics Qualifying Examination would replace the Paper-pencil-type of examination. It provides easy transaction between the test administrator and the examinee. The results of this study would be beneficial to the following: College of Science. The Proposed system would be beneficial to the College of Science in terms of improving its management system. Through the existence of the proposed system, workflow during the qualifying examination would be minimized. Human resource will be reduced and security will be foolproof. Examinees. This system will provide them a convenient way of taking the qualifying examination. The system provides an instant checking and scoring scale of each examination that would enable them to get their results in a few hours. In this way, they will be able to minimize their time, effort and money splat on each activity. College Guidance Personnel. In general, this system would greatly increase the flexibility of test management. It reduces their time in administering the examination, thus reduces their fatigue also. It also provides them convenience throughout the examination process. They will likewise be able to immediately get feedback whether the given examination is easy or difficult. Future Researchers. This study can be used as a springboard for further study. This can be used as their reference or guide in the development of a system they are going to develop. Definition of Terms For easy understanding, the following terms were defined operationally and conceptually. Conventional Examination. Operationally, it refers to the current system, which is the paper-pencil examination. Data. It is information in a form suitable for processing by a computer, such as the digital representation of text, numbers, graphic, image and sound. Strictly speaking it is mean, an item of information (Cowart, 2000). In this study, this would refer to the information extracted from the examinee, their profile, schedules and results. It represents the facts, concepts or instruction produced by the examinee and the test administrator. Database. Conceptually, it is an application used to store and manipulate data. The application may be a simple one that provides for flat files only and that cannot be programmable, or it may have the capability of producing databases that are programmable and relational (Dictionary of Information Technology, 1995). Operationally, this will be a storage device used to store important data and information in accordance to the system such as examinee profile, schedules and the results of examination. End-User. Conceptually, it refers to the person who uses the application program and computer products to produce his or her own results. This is a person at the end of a long chain of people who design and make computer  products. The end user is usually the person who buys the products (Cowart, 2000). It refers to the test administrator and examinees involved in this investigation. Electronic Examination. According to Webster dictionary, to be electronic is to incorporate your work with the use of the computer (The New Webster Pocket Computer Dictionary, 1998). In this study, it is meant to take an examination with the use of a computer system, its hardware software and peripherals. Error. A mistake. An error or bug in the system may cause the computer to crash (Dictionary of Information Technology, 1995). Examinee. Generally speaking, it points to a person taking the actual examination. Password. According to the Webster’s dictionary, a password is a security code that is required in the use of a computer, a particular program, or a certain file. Computer files protected by a password require the user to type the needed password before the protected files can be made available (The New Webster’s Pocket Computer Dictionary, 1998). Operationally speaking, this will be a secret word a user must input into the Computer in order the gain access to the electronic qualifying examination. Problems. Operationally, this refers to the existing obstacles that the Guidance Office is experiencing. The problems encountered were in scheduling, actual examination and the retrieval of results. This is the main reasons why the proponents conducted this study, in order to reduce and lessen the existing problems Procedure. Operationally and conceptually, it is sequence of steps taken by the system to carry out its job. Process. Operationally, it is to carry out an action such as the scheduling process. Profile. Operationally it refers to the personal information of the examinee such as last name, first name, age, gender, ID number, status, address and score in the test/ examination. Report. Conceptually speaking, it is a document from the computer or that is an output or a hard copy that summarizes the outcome from data processing (Cowart, 200). This would be the printed report copy of schedules and results of the examinee. It is  collected data and information from the database. System. According to the book, it is everything that is needed to carry out a certain task. Just like a computer system, it includes the hardware, software and the manuals (Cowart, 2000). Operationally, it refers to the Electronic Qualifying Examination. This will enable the College of Science to replace the current conventional system of Qualifying Examination. It involves three major processes that includes the scheduling, the actual examination and the retrieval of data. Test Administrator/Examiner. Operationally, it refers to the person or persons involved in giving an examination. They are the one’s responsible in operating the examination.

Blue Ocean Strategy Essays - Blue Ocean Strategy, Free Essays

Blue Ocean Strategy Essays - Blue Ocean Strategy, Free Essays Blue Ocean Strategy In 2005 the book Blue Ocean Strategy, by professors W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne, was published. The book is based on the studies over one hundred strategic moves of industries over the years. The publishers argue the successes firms achieve when creating blue oceans. The strategic moves made focus on the increase of the companys value, buyers, as well as achieving new demand and knocking out competitors. Instead of constant competition the blue ocean strategy focuses on building new market segments. With todays continuous advancement in technology and rise in globalization, the blue ocean strategy has become more popular in use. Blue Ocean Strategy in Marketing When developing a new product, there are many steps to take and processes. Most start with the four Ps of marketing, which is product, placement, price, and promotion. There is also the product life cycle to take into consideration, which includes market introduction, market growth, market maturity, and sales decline. What these processes all have in common is the analysis of how to make their product beat the competition. Marketing is full of constant competitiveness; industries never cease to stop competing for every piece of available market share they can get their hands on, but what if it doesnt have to be this way. Blue ocean strategy is trying to eliminate competition altogether. Its goal is to be able to create a marketplace that is a competitive free market. This strategy pushes companies to think outside the box and create an uncontested market space. Creating a new marketplace allows a companies to eliminate competition and break the value/cost trade off. Blue Ocean Move Cirque du Soleil, the Canadian entertainment company, is considered to be one of the largest theatrical performances in the world. Two street performers, known as, Guy Laliberte and Gilles Ste- Croix, founded the show in 1984. Cirque du Soleil is known for its dramatic mash up of circus performing arts and street entertainment. This is a great example of a blue ocean move. Cirque du Soleil is neither in the circus business nor in the Broadway production business. Cirque du Soleil is its characterized in its own marketplace. "Cirque did not make its money by competing within the confines of the existing industry or by stealing customers from Ringling and the others," Kim and Mauborgne explained in the Harvard Business Review magazine. "Instead, it created uncontested market space that made the competition irrelevant. It pulled in a whole new group of customers who were traditionally noncustomers of the industry adults and corporate clients who had turned to theater, opera or ballet and were, therefore, prepared to pay several times more than the price of a conventional circus ticket for an unprecedented entertainment experience." Red Ocean Move Red ocean strategy is simply the opposite strategy of the blue ocean strategy. Red Ocean is where a company produces a product in a crowded marketplace. A red ocean is typical where industries are, in a defined market, competing to be on top. The researchers called this the Red Ocean, analogous to a shark infested ocean where the sharks are fighting each other for the same prey.(Dr. Layton) For Cirque du Soliel to make a red ocean move and create competition does not have any pros to it. Cirque du Soliel is already the worlds largest and most profitable theatrical performances in the world. Creating a defined market would only limit their abilities and give their competitors a fighting chance. Conclusion The blue ocean strategy is becoming more and more popular. Many technological industries are indorsing this strategy to achieve a competitive advantage in the market. Blue ocean strategy focuses on noncustomers by creating uncontested markets, eliminating competition, creating new demand, and with eliminating the value/cost trade off. While Red ocean strategy focuses on current customers by competing in existing markets, destroying competition, exploiting demand, and making the value/cost trade off. The blue ocean move brings newer opportunities for the marketing world, but the Red Ocean move will always be the more popular route for industries. Reference: Chan Kim, W., & Mauborgne, R. (2004, October 1). Blue Ocean Strategy. Retrieved June 29, 2015, from https://hbr.org/2004/10/blue-ocean-strategy/ Dr. Layton, S. (2009, April 21). Red Ocean vs. Blue Ocean. Retrieved June 29, 2015, from corporatestrategy.com/red-ocean-vs-blue-ocean/

Behavior Tracking Contracts, Incident Reports, and Worksheets

Behavior Tracking Contracts, Incident Reports, and Worksheets Behavior Tracking Worksheets These help determine what happened just before the inappropriate behavior occurred and should be used consistently if you suspect a behavior disorder or disability. Download/Print  a PDF  Download/Print a Word Document Functional Behavior Assessment Worksheet These  forms will help structure your first meeting with the IEP team to review their observations and shape the Functional Behavior Analysis (FBA.)   It is the first step toward creating a Behavior Improvement Plan, to support the students success.   The FBA needs to be completed before a  behavior contract may be implemented. Download/Print a PDF Download/Print a Word Document Monday to Friday Checklist This sample requires the teacher to sign per day or per half day each time the child exhibits appropriate behavior. There should be a reinforcer or reward in place for a specific number of teacher initials.This sample   behavior contract is suitable for first to eighth grade students and should be filled in with the teacher present. This plan requires the reinforcers and consequences to be listed.   Download/Print a PDFDownload/Print a Word Document Countdown to Positive Behavior This  popular worksheet is placed on the students desk. It focuses on modifying  one behavior at a time. Initially the teacher should stand next to the student and administer it, but after a day or two, the student should be ready to take over.   You may want a peer you trust to monitor the other student.   This works well with young elementary students, but with fourth or fifth grade students, in which case a teacher should be leery of opening a compliant student up to bullying on the playground, etc. This is a great self-monitoring tool to teach a child to raise his/her hand and not call out. Download/Print a PDF Download/Print a  Word Document Countdown to Positive Behavior (Blank) This worksheet is more flexible, since unlike the above printable, this form is blank.   You could use a different Behavior for your countdown on consecutive days, alternate, or take a more flexible approach.   You need to start with a single behavior to start, and add behaviors as you go.   This might be part of a two pronged approach, as you may want to use the countdown for one behavior, while focusing on other behaviors with a behavior contract.   In other words, you are challenging the student to prove that he has mastered the calling out behavior, or the talking during instruction behavior.   Download/Print a PDF Download/Print a Word Document Functional Behavior Assessment Worksheet This particular worksheet is what gets things started! This form would provide the agenda for a first meeting with your IEP team to address behavior issues.    It provides for Antecedent, Behavior and Consequences to be observed and counted.   It creates a structure for your FBA meeting that will help you collect baseline data and share responsibilities for the BIP (Behavior Improvement Plan) and its implementation.   Download/Print a PDF Download/Print a Word Document

First-Year Residency Requirements for College

First-Year Residency Requirements for College At many colleges and universities, you will need to live in the residence halls for your first year or two of college. A few schools require campus residency for all four years. Even if your school allows students to live off campus, consider the pros and cons of living on campus before making a final decision. Why Youre Required to Live on Campus Your First Year of College Students are most likely to stay at a college when they feel like they belong. This sense of belonging has a direct impact on a colleges retention rate and graduation rate. When new students live off campus, they are less likely to get involved in campus clubs and activities and will have a harder time making friends among fellow students.When a student lives on campus, the college has an easier time helping out should that student encounter trouble on the academic or social front. Resident Advisors (RAs) and Resident Directors (RDs) are trained to intervene and assist when students are struggling, and they can help direct students to the appropriate people and resources on campus.A college education is about much more than taking classes and earning a degree. Residential life teaches many important life skills: resolving conflicts with a roommate, suitemates, and/or students on your hall; learning to live with people who may be quite different from you; building a living and learnin g community; and so on. At most schools, campus residence halls are much closer to important facilities (library, gym, health center, etc.) than off-campus apartments.Colleges have little ability to monitor illegal behavior off campus, but within the residence halls, activities such as underage drinking and illegal drug use can be detected and responded to much more readily.  When you are a new student, it can be a huge benefit to be living in the same building with upper-class students and/or RAs who know the campus and academic expectations well. Youre also more likely to find mentors in a campus residence hall than in an off-campus apartment.Along with having upper-class mentors, youll also have a peer group that will include students taking some of the same classes as you. Living on campus gives you ready access to study groups, and peers can often help if you are forced to miss a class or if you find material from a lecture confusing. Along with the obvious benefits of living on campus, colleges have a few reasons for keeping students on campus that may be a bit less altruistic. Specifically, colleges dont make all of their money from tuition dollars. For the great majority of schools, significant revenues also flow from room and board charges. If dorm rooms sit empty and not enough students are signed up for meal plans, the college will have a harder time balancing its budget. If more states move forward with free tuition plans for in-state students at public universities (such as New Yorks Excelsior Program), all college revenue will come from room, board, and associated fees. Exceptions to College Residency Requirements Keep in mind that very few colleges have residential policies that are set in stone, and exceptions are often made. If your family lives very close to the college, you can often get permission to live at home. Doing so obviously has significant cost benefits, but dont lose sight of the valuable experiences you might miss out on by choosing to commute. By living at home, you wont be getting the full college experience, including learning how to be independent.Some colleges with two- or three-year residency requirements allow strong students to petition to live off campus sooner. If youve proven your academic and personal maturity, you may be able to move off campus earlier than many of your classmates.At some schools, it may also be possible to petition to live off campus for reasons related to specific health and wellness needs. For example, you might be able to petition to live off campus if the college cant meet your atypical dietary requirements or if you need access to regular healthcare that simply isnt feasible in a college residence hall.   A Final Word About Residency Requirements Every college has residency requirements that were developed for the unique situation of the school. Youll find that some urban schools as well as some universities that have been experiencing rapid expansion, simply dont have enough dormitory space to handle all of their students. Such schools often cannot guarantee housing and may be happy for you to live off campus. At any school, its important to weigh the pros and cons of living off campus before making a decision. Time spent cooking meals and commuting to campus is time that wont be spent on your studies, and not all students do well with too much independence.

BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Security Concerns Research Paper

BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Security Concerns - Research Paper Example Based on above therefore, the following essay tries to explain how BYOD is of merits and demerits as far as security in an organization is concerned (Hayes 2013 pg114). Based on the merits, BYOD helps reduce expense for employees. Based on be almost 80 dollars per employee within a month for devise, cellular access among others. This allows companies to record their employees’ investments in devices. In addition, it enhances their security measures within the enterprise. Furthermore, BYOD helps in improvement of employees’ engagement. This is because they can use devices, which they are well, versed with and know how to use. Finally yet importantly, it allows the companies to take advantage of newer technologies in the market. The resultant here is reduced cost and promotion of collaboration among people (Guerin 2013 pg87). In relation to above merits many challenges arise which are of defense concerns. The first challenge is the ease loss of these devices. In relation, the relatively portability and small size of these devices and the information stored on them exposes them to higher risk of getting lost or get stolen. In addition, the weakness of passwords and operating system defenses on customer devices largely contribute to these risks. In relation to this, data leakage also becomes a threat (Hayes 2013 pg119). Moreover, the storage of important data assets on employee-owned devices poses a great threat to enterprises due to anticipated or inadvertent of sensitive information. These may include private consumer information and proprietary organization information. Thus, these sensitive data downloaded onto a personally owned device goes through easy sharing or get stored with less or no security. Therefore, it may lead to exposure of the company to the risk of data breach (Bartz 2012 pg165). In addition to above, the employment of this trend in a company introduces new governance challenges that can lead to other fatal risks within that

Content Analysis (Conceptual)- How does New Mexico's (Albuquerque and Essay

Content Analysis (Conceptual)- How does New Mexico's (Albuquerque and Santa Fe) media (newspapers) portray issues of drought and water allocation in the state o - Essay Example The Albuquerque MSA population includes the city of Rio Rancho, one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, a hub for many master-planned communities which are expected to draw future businesses and residents to the area. According to the United States Census Bureau, Albuquerque has a total area of 181.3 square miles (469.6  km ²). 180.6 square miles (467.8  km ²) of it is land and 0.6 square miles (1.6  km ²) of it (0.35%) is water. The metro area has over 1,000 square miles developed. Albuquerque lies within the northern, upper edges of the Chihuahuan Desert ecoregion, based on long-term patterns of climate, associations of plants and wildlife, and landforms, including drainage patterns. Located in central New Mexico, the city also has noticeable influences from the adjacent Colorado Plateau Semi-Desert, Arizona-New Mexico Mountains, and Southwest Plateaus and Plains Steppe ecoregions, depending on where one is located. Its main geographic connection lies wi th southern New Mexico, while culturally, Albuquerque is a crossroads of most of New Mexico.†(Albuquerque, 2007) Wikipedia goes on to further detail the geography of the region as follows: â€Å"Albuquerque has one of the highest elevations of any major city in the United States, though the effects of this are greatly tempered by its southwesterly continental position. The elevation of the city ranges from 4,900 feet (1,490  m) above sea level near the Rio Grande (in the Valley) to over 6,400 feet (1,950  m) in the foothill areas of the Northeast Heights. At the airport, the elevation is 5,352 feet (1,631  m) above sea level. The Rio Grande is classified, like the Nile, as an exotic river because it flows through a desert. The New Mexico portion of the Rio Grande lies within the Rio Grande Rift Valley, bordered by a system of faults, including those that lifted up the adjacent Sandia and Manzano Mountains, while lowering the area where

Corporate Social Responsibility Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Corporate Social Responsibility - Essay Example George. W. Merck a formal chairman of the company always tried to project his founding father’s mission that the corporation will always â€Å"work for the people and not for profits†. On this regard it can be said, that the company is more deliberate to act with high social responsibility rather than just focusing on profitability or revenues (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). Organization Values of Merck & Corporation In respect of Merck’s company’s mission and vision which is to serve public at all means, profit is not the first priority as the organization is with deeper social grounds at the time of service or operation. As company’s vision is set on high moral grounds, it becomes mandatory for the system of the company to follow the similar track in which social responsibility is on highest node of consideration. In such ethical frame of work, the decision of developing a drug which is specifically for small population is hard to make, as it has to imi tate company’s vision and fit in the interest of internal and external stakeholders (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). It was the period of 1970s when the case of â€Å"River blindness† came on the front to Merck & Corporation. ... ion like Merck’s & Corporation, whose idea is to serve mankind and provide people with effective remedies on such chronic diseases (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). Stakeholder Impact and Interest Merck & Corporation is one of the largest medication providers in the world. It is having a thorough background in serving people genuinely with high effective cures and remedies. The case of river blindness required an ethical decision in which Merck & Corporation was being expected to make a decision in favor of the affected population (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). The case brought attention of stakeholders who were actively part of the organization at that time. Scientists were internal stakeholders who projected their deep interest in researching for the case. This was all in the context of company’s mission and vision, which is to serve public who is facing influence of such chronic disease â€Å"River blindness† (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). Risk in Development of the Drug In the case of River-blindness disease, Merck & Corporation was carrying high amount of risk especially if the company owners look at the profitability aspect (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). If the company goes with its research, it would require high investments plus a lot of time to get with a probable solution. The profit generation is on the lesser side even the investments are hard to recover on the drug as the affected people requiring the drug are located in poor regions, who cannot afford such high profitability ratios for the company (Trevino & Nelson, 2010). The Final Decision In respect of the following risk factors, it is hard to make a decision that whether a company should go or not for developing the drug. If a company decides to proceed with the drug development, it could compromise the principles of

Wall Street Journal #1 Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Wall Street Journal #1 - Article Example tributed to the lack of a master plan as well as disjointed plans and the different forms of mixed-use developments in Mexico City are new to the area and have brought a lot of demand from the upper-middle class particularly the ones with young families due to their collection of retail, cultural attractions and offices (Whelan). Developers have taken the vacant land in the area and closed industrial sites so that they can be abele to develop sites, and this has increased the population of the city without considering the breadth of the streets to accommodate the increased flow of traffic, the electrical systems as well as the capacity of the water in the area. It is easier to get a permit for development in Mexico City than it is in New York City, and this is the main cause of the exponential growth that has brought problems as far as water and power are concerned. The city has had to put a hold on the permitting process and consequently start an overhaul of the entire process so that it can be able to check and plan for the development that is taking place. This has lead to many developers that had already procured land for the construction having to wait a little longer until the process is reviewed making them delay on huge

How Was Successful Nazi Policy In The Years 1933 - 1945 Essay

How Was Successful Nazi Policy In The Years 1933 - 1945 - Essay Example Two major groups bind the youth of the nation during the reign of Nazis. These groups comprise the Hitler youth group and league of the German maidens. In the youth group under the reign of Hitler led Nazi Germany, boys at the age of 10 were influenced to join the Jungvolk. At the age of 14, it is expected that the boys will join the Hitler youth committee. The Hitler led Nazi mainly focused towards enhancing the physical fitness along with proper military training for the youth right from the very beginning of the Nazi era. In addition, the membership of the youth in the Nazi movement made compulsory for the boys. On the other hand, ‘League of the German Maidens’ predominately included the German girls. Nazi led German was also focused towards providing training to the teenagers so that they could join the Nazi defense force. Hitler also instructed schools that the girls should be taught about Nationalist as well as racist beliefs so that they could embed well into the Nazi culture. In this particular regard, Hitler started the youth movement where the young girls of age 10-14 needed to learn the ideologies of Nazi along with other activities such as camping and athletics among others so that they could be able to get physical fitness and enhance the prospects of future Nazi soldier. The Hitler led Nazi Germany considered the youth of the country to be among the most vital assets. Contextually, they attempted to control girls and embed them into the Nazi culture right from the beginner stage.

A Key Role of Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A Key Role of Culture - Essay Example The following sections examine the importance of national culture in the business context.How People See Themselves: In some countries people are viewed as basically honest and trust worthy where as in others as suspicion and distrust. This may result from the way people see themselves. They assume others are like them; they set certain schemas about different people. For example, it took Mc Donald’s a year to realize that Hindus in India does not eat beef, this hamper their sales initially until they get shifted to lamb meatEthical Decision Making: Society continues to be apprehensive about the impact of ethics on decision making. The increased globalization of today's business suggests that more emphasis should be given to the potential impact of culture on ethical decisions. Understanding of cross-cultural ethical differences is quite important in today’s world because the ethical standards are variable in different cultures.Individualism versus Collectivism: Individ ualism refers to people regarding themselves as individual like USA, Canada, Britain etc, while collectivism refers to people regarding themselves as a part of a group like Japan, China, Israel etc. The differences between the two reflect in many ways, such as in hiring practice. In countries where individualism is important, job applicants are evaluated on the basis of personal, educational and professional achievement where as in group oriented societies applicants are evaluated on the basis of trustworthiness, loyalty.

How Was Successful Nazi Policy In The Years 1933 - 1945 Essay

How Was Successful Nazi Policy In The Years 1933 - 1945 - Essay Example Two major groups bind the youth of the nation during the reign of Nazis. These groups comprise the Hitler youth group and league of the German maidens. In the youth group under the reign of Hitler led Nazi Germany, boys at the age of 10 were influenced to join the Jungvolk. At the age of 14, it is expected that the boys will join the Hitler youth committee. The Hitler led Nazi mainly focused towards enhancing the physical fitness along with proper military training for the youth right from the very beginning of the Nazi era. In addition, the membership of the youth in the Nazi movement made compulsory for the boys. On the other hand, ‘League of the German Maidens’ predominately included the German girls. Nazi led German was also focused towards providing training to the teenagers so that they could join the Nazi defense force. Hitler also instructed schools that the girls should be taught about Nationalist as well as racist beliefs so that they could embed well into the Nazi culture. In this particular regard, Hitler started the youth movement where the young girls of age 10-14 needed to learn the ideologies of Nazi along with other activities such as camping and athletics among others so that they could be able to get physical fitness and enhance the prospects of future Nazi soldier. The Hitler led Nazi Germany considered the youth of the country to be among the most vital assets. Contextually, they attempted to control girls and embed them into the Nazi culture right from the beginner stage.

Fresh Water Pollution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Fresh Water Pollution - Essay Example Nutrient pollution is caused by excess seepage of nutrients into the water; microorganisms that live in the water cause microbiological pollution. Suspended matter is caused by pollutants whose molecules are too big to mix thus form a silt at the bottom or remain floating at the top. A number of human activities such as industries that releases their effluent to fresh water bodies bring about surface water pollution. Oxygen depletion is the result of the release of too much biodegradable waste into the water. Thus, the oxygen in the water is used up by the increased amount of organisms that break down matter. Chemical pollution refers to contamination of water by industrial and agricultural waste such as metals, detergents and pesticides. In addition, it may be caused by oil spillage. Finally, ground water pollution is caused by seepage of chemicals through the soil and into underground water sources such as wells and boreholes. This pollution is caused by human activities although some are natural as found in Bangladesh laced with arsenic. Excess fertilizer, animal manure and waste effluent, contain nutrients that stimulate excess plant and algae growth in the fresh water bodies; they cause the decomposing plants and animals to use the oxygen to depletion causing the death of the organisms and animals, as well as the plants. Agricultural and chemical waste like DDT that is persistent insecticides and pesticides accumulate in the fresh water harming fish and birds. In addition, oil from oil spills and coagulated chemicals from industries cause the birds in the water bodies to have their wings and feathers clogged up thus are unable to fly. Human and fecal waste may contain disease carrying organisms and pathogens, which causes cholera and typhoid among humans which may cause death and disease outbreaks. Chemical pollutants that find their

For rich and poor in Russia Essay Example for Free

For rich and poor in Russia Essay I leaned my back on my big black chair. The cushion, now deep and saggy, still feels comfortable. It has been ten long years of sitting on the same chair yet I can still feel its soft leather and now dilapidated covers. This high-back chair has been with me since day one. It surely has witnessed countless heated arguments with my staff, serious conversations with directors, even termination scenes with employees. Today, as I am about to make the biggest decision for the company, the chair will once more bear witness to my decision-making. So I reached for the topmost document from a pile of white papers on my desk. This was from yesterday’s presentation. It read, â€Å"Strategy for Expansion,† with bold letters that seemed to be screaming at me. Yes, after ten long years of doing business, we have finally decided to widen our horizons and look for other markets to tap into. I stretched my feet under the table, putting back the document I sighed and asked myself, â€Å"Are we ready to do this? † â€Å"Sir, everyone is waiting for you in the boardroom,† my secretary interrupted. This is just one of the vivid scenes recurring to me whenever I think about my future career. Indeed I aspire to sit on the manager’s chair of a successful company in my home country of Russia. Yet the road towards that aspiration is long and bumpy, not to mention competitive and challenging especially in today’s business world. As this is the case, I deem that I need top-notch and excellent education and rigid practical training from a prestigious educational institution. Hence, I have chosen the European School of Economics to major in International Business. Primarily, I regard that an international learning environment offered by ESE is crucial in today’s competitive business world so as to prepare and train me in building a career in business especially in this time of globalization. Since ESE is home to students of different nationalities and allows free movement between the centers in London, New York, Rome, Milan, and Florence, I am certain to experience a dynamic, interesting, and challenging academic environment necessary in today’s competitive atmosphere of business. ESE will further hone my skills and strengthen my knowledge in preparation for my entry into the global marketplace by providing practical training or real-life application of business theories and perspectives through exposure and involvement in creating strategic plans, managing international projects, and addressing various challenges in today’s global business environment. Evidence of ESE’s capacity to do this is the myriad of graduates who are the movers and shakers in the business field occupying positions in management, organizational operations, marketing, and customer care, among others. Another testament to ESE’s ability to educate me excellently are the recognitions it has received. In fact, ESE programs have been validated by the highest ranked university by British students and the only independent university in the United Kingdom, the University of Buckingham. It is also accredited by the British Accreditation Council. Furthermore, I have been drawn to ESE’s philosophy of not just assisting students in choosing a career that suits them but more so encouraging them to fulfill their goals by chasing their dreams and doing what they love. This kind of encouraging environment will definitely ease the stress and pressures attached with higher education, not to mention bring fun and active spirit amidst academic requirements. Moreover, another significant factor in choosing ESE is its revered internship program. Since the school has established relationships with successful global companies, I am guaranteed to gain the needed exposure and adequate training necessary before entering the real business world. Particularly in my chosen major where I will be exposed to three internship placements, I will have the opportunity to explore which field I may be good at, to assess my own skills for future practice, and to earn the trust and confidence of employers for future employment options. Above all, I have chosen ESE, particularly the Bachelor’s Degree in International Business because of the quality of education that I will receive should I be accepted in the said program. Included in this quality education are the analytical and critical thinking skills that I will acquire, which will aid me in future organizational decisions. Furthermore, the kind of learning I will gain in the said program will give me a deep comprehension of the global business environment and the different factors that influence investment, trade, and the economy, thereby allowing me to come up with strategic business plans in the future. In addition, an ESE education will further strengthen my communication skills crucial in local and international business transactions and dealings as well as develop my creativity and flexibility in responding to various challenges that face the business environment. Because of all these qualities, I aspire to be one of the students to be educated with an ESE education. However, this education will not just be for me but for my country as well. As a Russian native, I have seen the widening gap between the rich and the poor. Though everyone seems to be climbing up the ladder of economic progress, the rich people continue to become richer very quickly and as a result, the gap continues to expand (Arvedlund, 2005). Hence, as someone with business and economic knowledge, I dream of working in an area where I can help bridge this gap – the supermarket industry. In 2001, it was only forecasted that supermarkets will gain momentum in Russia as the demand for food caused by the increasing purchasing power of Russians skyrocketed. In the past though, supermarkets were known to be exclusively high-income shopping places while outside markets are pictures of low and middle class shopping (Kozlov, 2001). While supermarkets provide all the conveniences of shopping, the prices of goods are high; while local stores’ prices are low, the quality of products is poor. Moreover, it was reported in 2008 that foreign supermarkets are beginning to expand their markets by establishing outlets in Russia, particularly in Moscow. Majority of these supermarket giants have been household names in developed nations. Their goal is to target consumers with a growing dispensable income by combining high quality products and low prices (Bentley, 2008). However, what I am aiming for is an all original Russian supermarket merging the features of a supermarket and a local store. My long-term professional dream is to establish a chain of supermarkets characterized by high standard goods, convenient shopping, low prices, and authentically Russian ambiance, where everyone regardless of income can enjoy shopping. After some time when the company has been established and have enough profits to sustain the business and even to venture out in other endeavors, we will expand to include charity work in our goals. This social responsibility is one aspect that many Russian companies seem to neglect. Hence, this dream will somehow decrease the gap between the rich and the poor and in a way support the less-fortunate to climb up the economic ladder quickly. Moreover, it is this very dream that inspired me to pursue a career in business; majoring in International Business in ESE is the first step towards this. Indeed the primary role of businesses, whether small, medium, or large, and local or international, is to create products and services and sell these to communities to gain profit for wealth creation in society (International Organization of Employers, 2005). How to effectively and efficiently achieve this purpose is what aspiring businessmen like me wish to study and master. The principles of marketing, various business methods, economics, business law and ethical practice, management and organization, and finance – these are just few elements that businesses need to take into consideration on their way to making profit. Yet beyond money matters, businesses have ventured out to include social responsibility and accountability to community as part of their strategy. For instance, businesses have sought to advance the quality of life like McDonald’s advocating for animal welfare, education of youth, clean environment, and charitable efforts (McDonalds, 2010). Moreover, businesses have also used their resources to embed social responsibility in their goods and services as in Vodafone’s Mpesa program in Kenya that enables people to do mobile banking and the content-filtering system the company incorporated for parents and children’s protection (Demos, 2006). If these companies successfully accomplished these endeavors, then it will not be impossible for the others to follow suit. Hence, I aim to do just that in my future business. To do this, I will apply my experience in interacting with different types of culture that I gained from living in several countries. Likewise, I will use my skills in developing relationships and working in groups to expand my business, develop ethical approaches in doing business, and incorporate charitable programs that will foster a symbiotic relationship between my business and the community or society. Since there are problems ahead, the analytical knowledge that business education will equip will come in handy. Nonetheless, this analytical approach will not only be applicable within the bounds of business but outside the business world as well. For instance, the lessons learned from economics, finance, and marketing will enable me to become an intelligent consumer. Moreover, the values taught by management and organization will help me manage my time and organize my schedule. In addition, the values acquired from business law and ethics will support my personal judgment and decisions in life and at work. Needless to say, I am fit to achieve all these through an ESE education because I am a hard worker and a leader. Testament to this is my experience working in the marketing department of a shoe company. Though a greenhorn, I was immediately tasked to handle the marketing plan for the newest line of rubber shoes. Together with the team, I looked into previous plans from the department and examined the core values of the company. I then gathered them and brainstormed on what marketing strategy would be best for the new shoe line. I assigned each member a task that includes researching the marketing environment, reviewing past marketing activities, studying the company’s marketing system, and devising methods to analyze marketing plan’s effectiveness. With all our inputs, we were able to come up with a solid strategy, which the company used to introduce the new product to the market. From this work experience, I showcased my leadership and management abilities to produce good results. I was also able to display responsibility, meticulousness, organization, and ability to work well with others to ensure that the task assigned to me was smooth sailing from beginning to end. All these qualities will come in handy in the real global competitive business world. Nonetheless, my life is not all work and business. I also use my time doing fun activities such as swimming and yoga, both of which ease my mind from the pressures of school, work, and personal life. In my spare time, I read books and newspapers. I find current events, politics, history, and business the most interesting topics to read about as they give me awareness of past and present events that shape people and ultimately influence their decisions and actions. Furthermore, I also devote my time in volunteer work. In fact, I was recently in Tijuana, Mexico to help build houses for homeless families in the said area and also in the reservation in Taos, New Mexico to immerse myself in the Pueblo culture together with Pueblo school children. I have likewise participated in the Walk to Cure Diabetes in San Francisco, CA for a number of times. The said experiences deepened my understanding of different kinds of people and made me appreciate life more. They also inspired me to do more for the community and society as there are many people who need help, care, and attention. Therefore, in the future, I wish to extend my hand to the underprivileged and unnoticed sectors of society. Before doing this though, I wish to earn my master’s degree to strengthen the undergraduate education I will acquire. This way, my dream of establishing and managing a solely Russian-based company will be easier to achieve. Additionally, earning a master’s degree will make me a more effective leader and manager bringing a Western style of conducting business, which I believe is more efficient when applied in the Russian environment. The higher degree will also strengthen the knowledge and skills I gained from studying in various parts of the world and from interacting with different cultures in bringing a global and efficient approach to the company and in promoting charity and community work as an integral component in today’s business world. So I stared at my secretary for a couple of minutes and then she said, â€Å"Sir, is there something wrong? Everyone is waiting.. † I did not let her finish and instead I asked, â€Å"Do you think it is time for me to buy a new chair? † â€Å"I most certainly think so, Sir. † With that, I already know what decision to deliver in the boardroom. References Arvedlund, E. E. (2005). For rich and poor in Russia, gap widens. The New York Times. Retrieved from http://www. nytimes. com/2005/04/26/business/worldbusiness/26iht-ruble. html? _r=2 Bentley, E. (2008). Supermarket giants check out Russia. The Moscow News. Retrieved from http://www. mn. ru/business/20080904/55345070. html Demos, T. (2006). Beyond the bottom line: Our second annual ranking of Global 500 companies. CNN. Retrieved from http://money. cnn. com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2006/10/30/8391850/index. htm International Organization of Employers. (2005). The role of business within society: Position paper. Geneva: International Organization of Employers. 1-10. Kozlov, V. (2001). Supermarkets gain momentum in Moscow. The Russia Journal. Retrieved from http://www. russiajournal. com/node/5018 McDonalds. (2010). Values in action. Retrieved from http://www. mcdonalds. com/us/en/our_story/values_in_action. html

Santeria Is A Syncretism Religion From West Africa Religion Essay

Santeria Is A Syncretism Religion From West Africa Religion Essay Santeria is an integrated system of beliefs from the Yoruba religion, Roman Catholic and Native American traditions. The elements of Yoruba religion were imported to the new world in the Caribbean by the slaves from Nigeria (People form Nigeria, West African country) who were ferried to Caribbean to work in the sugarcane plantations. As these slaves were being transported to their new destination, they carried out with them their traditional religion. These traditions included the manner of praying to their ancestors and other many deities. Given their religious and ritual nature of their religion, Santeria is fully infested with animal sacrifice and sacred drumming just the same way its mother Yoruba religion does though Santeria shares in other doctrines of the Catholic, and Native American traditions. The incorporation of the three religions has evolved over time and today it has taken a form called Santeria as it is today in Cuba. However, it is noted that the religion continues to extend to other parts of the world for instance United Sates of America given the migration of the believers from areas it is dominantly practiced like Cuba. As reported today, the followers of this faith are not only Africans of West Africa origin but large numbers are of Hispanic and Caribbean descent. In United States of America, increasing number of African- American and European-American heritage has been recorded so far. Ritual Performance Traditions of Santeria: Ascension, Divination and Sacrifice This research paper attempts to put into focus the ritual performance of Santeria in the light of Ascension, Divination and Sacrifice. These three are the major pillars of the Santerian traditional ritual performance. Unlike other world religions of Western origin, Santeria lacks an organized central creed for its religious practices. It is best known for its unique rituals and ceremonies. Most remarkably, these rituals and ceremonies are conducted within the house temple also known in Cuba as the casa de santos translated in English as the house of saints. The house temple is also called ile from the Yoruba dialect. It is a common observation that ile are located in the homes of the initiated priests and priestesses (Mason, p. 123). In addition, ile shrines are strictly constructed by the consecrated priests and priestesses themselves. Different orishas are assigned different ile shrines depending on their commands of their deity. The shrine creates a space for worship referred to as igbodu otherwise an equivalent of alter in Catholic religion. Every igbodu (alter) is characterized by the display of three distinct thrones marked by royal blue, white and red satin. The three thrones represent that of the queen, kings and the warriors deified. The composition of ile is made up of the following: Individuals seeking guidance from the orishas. Followers who are awaiting consecration to become priests. In the history of Santerian, cabildos and casas constructed between the 19th and the 20th centuries provides fond memories of the contemporary priests and the priestesses who are the key pillars of the origins and strongholds of Cuban Lucumi culture and religion. Rituals: The first ritual is Santera is the acquisition of elekes (beaded necklaces). The colour patterns of the beads on the elekes will be similar to those of orisha that primarily serves as the iyawos (bride) ruling head and the guardian angel (Brown, p. 35). The acquisition of the elekes mustbe done by babalawo, the divine fortune teller, during the divination ritual called bajar a Orunla translated as to bring down Onrula. During this rite, the elekes is soaked in a mixture of herbs, a sacrificial blood and other substances given to the initiated. In ordinary circumstances, the initiates are required to receive elekes of the five most powerful and influential orishas. These particular elekes given to the initiates have multicolored beads on the elekes patterned to represent all the five primary orishas: Ellegua, Obatala, Yemaya, Chango, and OShun. The beads act as the sacred points of contact with the named orishas. From there on, the initiate will now be consecrated to handle the divina tion of the Orishas through the elekes. During the reception of the elekes, the initiate bows over a bathtub and then his head get washed with the mixture of herbs by the Orisha himself. This is a sign of submission to the high powers of the orishas and other deities y the initiate. Throughout the life of the initiate (now a follower), the elekes will act as the holy banner for the orishas, and a sign for the mighty presence of orishas. In the Santera, elekes play a very significant role because it is perceived as the sole provider of mighty protection to the followers in the event of any looming misfortune therefore it must be worn at all times. According to Oguta, elekes is considered one of the holiest tools in the said religion. Therefore it must never be worn by a menstruating woman during her periods. Medio asiento: This is the second ritual in command in the religion of Santera. It involves the creation of an image of the Eleggua, a powerful orisha who keeps evil away from the life of every believer. During the creation of this image, a person consults with a Santero and his life is reviewed afresh including the past, present and the future. The Santero then dictates the 21 paths of Eleggua the recipient will receive and he also choose the materials to be used in the making of the image of Eleggua. The sculpture is purposed to keep away evil spirits from the initiators home, family and life. The ritual is panned by the Santera and the orishas only comes in to preside over the process. The third ritual is called receiving of the warrior. Here, the initiates receive objects from the babalawo, an orisha that represents the warriors. Iron tools and weapons are used to represent Oggun, the Lord of Iron; iron bow and arrow represent Ochosh, the divine hunter; Osun the messenger of Obatala is represented by nairon chalice with a little rooster at the tip. This particular ritual marks the beginning of a formalized life-ling relationship between the initiate and the orishas. Similarly, the orishas declare their full time protection and provision on the initiates path. The ritual raises the level of commitment between the Santeria/initiate and the orishas whereby he is officially inducted into the religion because this ritual is binding and is life-long in nature. Asiento: Asiento is the last ritual in Santeria. It is translated as ascending to the throne. This is the most crucial and secretive ritual of all and it occupies the highest level of ritual in the spiritual realms in the religion of Senteria. During the ceremony, the iyamo (bride) confess his submission into the faith and this point he is declared born again. This particular ritual culminates all the previously conducted rituals, in this way it cannot be conducted unless the prior rituals have all been conducted. Right before the ritual is performed, an individual is regarded as impure and unholy thus it is recommended that he dies from his old personality. This is the ritual that significantly marks the process of purification and divination (Houk, p. 145). The new convert or rather the initiate becomes born again in the faith, young and ready to begin a new life of growing deeper in the faith. This is the most meaningful and mature stage of faith that every initiate in expected to reach. At this stage, an initiate can graduate into priesthood upon their consecration by other senior and prominent orishas. Sacrifice: The Santeria is dominated by the offering of sacrifices especially during the ritual ceremonies. It widely believed in the faith. Every time a ritual is done, an animal must be killed to shed some blood which is used for cleansing purposes. Most if the concoctions used by the orishas during these rituals contain some percentage of blood from the slaughtered animals purely for cleansing purposes. Conclusion: Santeria being a religion whose roots are deeply rooted in Africa and Caribbean cultures thought with negligible percentages of western religious cultures, rituals plays significant religious and cultural roles in the lives of its believers all over the world. Though it lacks organized creeds of faith like the western religions, its members find due fulfillment in accomplishing the series of it rituals stipulated in the traditions of faith. Most notably, Santeria is not a lesser religion among its believers given its ritual nature and it is increasingly becoming popular in the world. Real religion for sure.

Ronald Reagan and the End of the Cold War Essay example -- Ending the

The cold war was a post-World War II struggle between the United States and its allies and the group of nations led by the Soviet Union. Direct military conflict did not occur between the two superpowers, but intense economic and diplomatic struggles erupted. Different interests led to mutual suspicion and hostility in a rising philosophy. The United States played a major role in the ending of the cold war. It has been said that President Ronald Reagan ended the cold war with his strategic defense policies. In the year1949, Germany was divided by the victors of World War II and they occupied different zones. The western regions united to form a Federal republic and the Soviet eastern region became communist East Germany. The cold war had begun. Berlin, the former capital of Germany was divided into East Berlin and West Berlin but was located deep inside the soviet controlled zone.1 Then, in 1961, the Soviet government built a wall which separated the two halves of the city. It was not until the 1980s that cold war tensions eased through the glasnost (openness to public debate) polices of soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. Finally, in November 1989, the wall crumbled under the hands of the Germans and the cold war ended.2 The downfall of the cold war started when Ronald Reagan came into office in 1981. Reagan had two main priorities. He wanted to cut taxes and increase defense spending. He felt that the United States of America should take a confrontational approach towards Russia.3 Mikhail Gorbachev was the leader of Russia in 1985. He wanted to improve the Russian economy. He also wanted to improve relations with the United States. He used his glasnost (openness to public debate) policy and perestroika (restructuring) to help the Russian economy.4 Both leaders wanted a "margin of safety". Reagan took a tough stand against Russia and it's allies. The soviets could clearly see that when Reagan said he wanted a "margin of safety", he meant that the United States should be superior to Russia. Moscow would not let this happen. They wanted equality.5 Reagan also believed that military power and respect for America abroad were inseparable from economic strength. However, Reagan's defense policy resulted in the doubling of the debt of the United States. He used the money for new strategic ... ... References 1 Walter Lippman, The Cold War: A Study in U.S. Foreign Policy (New York: Harper & Brothers Publishers, 1947) 48-52. 2 Charles S. Maier, ed., The Cold War in Europe: Era of a divided Continent (New York: Markus Wiener Publishing, Inc., 1991) 27. 3 Ralph B. Levering, The Cold War (Illinois: Harlan Davidson, INC.,1988) 169. 4 Levering, 169 5 Levering, 169 6 John Young, Cold War Europe 1945-1989 (New York: Edward Allen, 1991) 26. 7 Levering, 171-2 8 Levering 173 9 "The End of the Cold War" http://usa.coldwar.server.gov/index/coldwar/ 2 Feb. 1997 10 http://usa.coldwar.server.gov/index/coldwar/ 11 Young, 28 12 Young, 28 13 Tom Morganthou, "Reagan's cold war 'sting'?", Newsweek 32 August 1993: 32 14 Levering, 180 15"Ending the Cold War", Foreign Affairs Spring 1988: 24-25 16 Young, 28 17 Young, 29 18 Young, 29 19 Levering, 187-188 20 "Ending the Cold War", 27 21 "Ending the Cold War", 28 22 Brinkley, Alan An Uneasy Peace 1988-, Vol. 10 of 20th Century America, 10 vols. (New York: Grolier 1995):22 23 Brinkley, 30 24 "George Bush addresses Europe" http://www.rjgeib.com/thoughts/burke/ 13 March 1997.

Harshness of the time Essay

‘Of Mice and Men’ has been described as a novel about the harshness of the time. What justifications can you find for this? ‘Of Mice and Men’ is set in 1930’s America, an extremely prejudiced area of history. It is a time that criticises and excludes women, black people, disabled people and old people, deeming them useless within a utilitarian society. In the novel, Steinbeck represents the harsh prejudices, poverty and injustice with the life of itinerant workers, a microcosm of American society at this time. Firstly, the way in which Steinbeck describes the bunkhouse of the ranch immediately seems to suggest a harsh environment in which people are forced to live and work in: â€Å"†¦ the walls were whitewashed and the floor unpainted†¦ a solid door with a wooden latch†¦ † This description of the ranch suggests a purely utilitarian approach to life, showing a living area with no aesthetic appeal whatsoever. It shows no dignity towards the workers, and what’s more they don’t complain about its lack of appeal. This gives the impression that ranch workers live with no inspiration, seemingly being forced to live a life purely to survive it rather than enjoy it. The â€Å"door with a wooden latch† and general unloved atmosphere gives a prison-like sense to the bunkhouse, conveying a sense of loneliness and isolation. This lack of communication and friendship could be interpreted as an extremely harsh thing to deal with. In addition to this, the severe racism portrayed by Steinbeck through the character Crooks is just one example of the harsh prejudice that disadvantaged people face in this novel: â€Å"†¦ he [the boss] give the stable buck hell, too†¦ ya see the stable buck’s a nigger. † Crooks is constantly referred to as â€Å"a nigger†, and characters in the novel react to this as a completely normal comment to make, which we see when George reacts to this name with â€Å"Nigger, huh? â€Å". The fact that the ranch is racially segregated is quite surprising for numerous reasons. The novel is set in the West where racism was considered to be less intense, as well as the fact that Steinbeck conveys the ‘American dream’ as a theme in the novel, suggesting that anyone can make it in America and â€Å"live off the fatta the land†. However it is clear that black people are restricted from succeeding here and this irony merely emphasises the harshness of reality for black people during this period in time. In addition to this, the prejudices that women face present the times the novel is set in to be extremely harsh, often through Curley’s wife: â€Å"She put her hands behind her back and leaned against the door frame so that her body was thrown forward† The novel does not even dignify Curley’s wife with a name, as she is merely referred to as the wife of Curley or simply just â€Å"a tart†, which suggests that they live in a somewhat patriarchal society where women are seen as purely sex objects. This would suggest that women are not allowed to aspire to better things, and live their lives as commodities of men. Another problem that they face is the fact that the only power they can achieve is through their sexuality, but if they choose to expose this, they are criticised for being promiscuous, emphasising the harshness they have to cope with. Furthermore, Whit’s story of â€Å"Bill Tenner† who got his letter put into a magazine is one of great interest to the ranch-workers, especially Whit, which tells us something about their dreams and aspirations: â€Å"Bill Tenner? Worked here about three months ago†¦ That’s the guy! Here, Steinbeck portrays a certain excitement within Whit, which we see from the exclamation â€Å"That’s the guy! † and this has arisen purely from the fact that one man who he barely knew (as ranch-workers moved from place to place often) had accomplished something that he had dreamed of. This shows a huge lack of ambition among the workers, from the fact that the only excitement for these workers has come from a mere acquaintance of Whit’s name being printed in a â€Å"pulp magazine†, which was a piece of inexpensive fiction. This is not only quite pathetic, but also extremely saddening to see grown men become energised by something so seemingly trivial. Although people living in this time period and circumstances would not necessarily see this as harsh, looking at it from today’s perspective, in contrast it most definitely seems like an austere environment. In conclusion, the harsh living conditions, inhibitions and prejudices that the majority of the disadvantaged ranch-workers must live with have a clear correlation to the state of American society during The Great Depression of the 1930’s. Steinbeck seems to have created a character for each type of harshness that was experienced, for example, Curley’s wife corresponds to sexism, and Candy corresponds to old and disabled people, all of which creates an accurate impression of the harshness of the times that ‘Of Mice and Men’ is set in.

Lorca’s play on tragic love

Lorca’s play on tragic love, The House of Bernarda Alba, is his last complete play. It is interpreted as a metaphor of repression with its theme focused on frustration, honour and death. The play contains both the passion and the torment in the intense struggle of a group of women held in check even from the thought of love by a tyrannical mother, Bernarda. The play investigates and provides a response, but not a solution, to the problems of oppression, transgression, sexuality and being a victim. Bernarda’s strict rule is as powerful as the wilful nature of the youngest woman who betrays the family.Her ability to satisfy her sexual desire symbolically shatters the order of extreme repression and absolute control. Her rebellion and death mark the reasons and effects of the repressed atmosphere. Ultimate protest, despair, and madness emphasize the even more extreme control, unhealthy fear, mindlessness, and especially silence that befall the women who remain in the house . However more scrutinizing approach to the issue of victim in the play reveals that not only Bernarda’s daughters appear as victims but Bernarda herself being a victimizer is a victim.Bernarda Alba is the mother, a dramatic personality, whose words carry the authority of the supreme ruler and whose life shows little emotion. In this austerity she rules her household, never sparing from her wrath anyone who attempts to revoke the stifling atmosphere she has superimposed on herself and her daughters. As a result, all – Bernarda, the daughters, the servants – exist in darkness and depression ultimately leading to sterility of emotions and finally to suicide.Bernarda is a selfish and tyrannical matron who eventually forces her daughters into the despair. They lose every vestige of hope; this loss leads directly to the moral death of each daughter and to the physical death of the youngest. Slowly, but unequivocally, Bernarda drains the minds and hearts of her daught ers until they become as white and barren as the walls of their physical prison the metaphor of which is conveyed by the visual nature of the house with its thick walls and a few windows and doors leading to the outside world.However, this significant visual image exceeds its literal meaning and, above all, represents a sociocultural institution keeping all the main characters of the play in subordination to social dogmas and rules. Within the confines of its walls Bernarda and her family repeat the old traditions, like many generations of women that preceded them. This repetitive and collective act obliterates the uniqueness of the individual for the sake of preserving patriarchal hegemony.When reading The House of Bernarda Alba it becomes obvious that the play’s most powerful strength is in its dialogues, while the characters are limited in their movement and space within a closed location. By dint of auditory means, Lorca reaches the explication of the contrast between gir ls and their mother. This contrast is emphasized by the other devices like contras of black and white, and these two colours are highlighted throughout the play: the black dresses of the women in mourning, in contrast to the very white walls of the house.Moreover, Bernarda’s authoritarian voice stands out as she commands, â€Å"Silence! † [p. 161] at the opening, throughout, and end of the play, closely related in each case to the death of one member of the family and the spiritual death of those living. Despite Bernarda’s call for silence, other sounds succeed in penetrating the thick walls and contribute to define the nature of their society and the dichotomy between life inside and outside the house. Bernarda’s house is a household without men. This is by fate as well as by author’s intention to establish controversial circumstances.Upon the death of her husband, she must assume the patriarchal role of protecting her daughters’ honour and forbids the presence of men within the confines of the house, thus limiting the world her daughters are allowed to know. Her house is clearly governed by patriarchal forces. Pepe el Romano, the male character we do not see but hear about, is the strongest motivating force in the play. Bernarda’s authoritarian discourse stubbornly reproduces what she learned from her father and her grandfather.This concept associates property with social class, as Bernarda is well aware. When one of her daughters has the opportunity of marrying, she does not allow it: â€Å"BERNARDA, loudly. – I'd do it a thousand times over! My blood won't mingle with the Humanas' while I live! His father was a shepherd. † (p. 191). The situation within the walls of her house would have been quite different had Bernarda found enough men of her social condition to marry her daughters. Lorca indicts society, and the reader might be inclined to condemn Bernarda as well.Although she is not aware of it, Bernarda is a victim turned victimizer. In the same way that her daughter, Adela, is symbolically suffocated by her mother’s oppression, as she commits suicide by hanging, Bernarda’s maternal feelings have been suffocated by society. As a widow, she uses her newly found powers to perpetuate those values that benefit men. She becomes their accomplice. Her husband was a womanizer, and she claims that men should enjoy the freedom of the streets. Women should be confined in the house, against their natural instincts.Bernarda is, at best, an imperfect man, as exemplified in her failed attempt to use the gun —a phallic symbol. BERNARDA: The gun! Where's the gun? She rushes out. La Poncia runs ahead of her. Amelia enters and looks on frightened, leaning her head against the wall. Behind her comes Martirio. ADELA: No one can hold me back! She tries to go out. [†¦] A shot is heard. BERNARDA, entering: Just try looking for him now! MARTIRIO, entering: That does away with Pepe el Romano. ADELA: Pepe! My God! Pepe! She runs out. PONCIA: Did you kill him?MARTIRIO: No. He raced away on his mare! BERNARDA: It was my fault. A woman can't aim (p. 210) Within the play another mother figure, Maria Josefa, vehemently distances herself from Bernarda and approaches Adela, thus leaving Bernarda without support and helpless. She sings a lullaby while holding a â€Å"baby† (a lamb) in her arms, an act that Bernarda – devoid of maternal instincts – seems incapable of performing. Bernarda as a mother figure becomes dehumanized and therefore closer to the dimensions of a grotesque caricature.At the beginning of the play the maid La Poncia threatens Bernarda’s public image with her gossip. At the end of the play, and despite Bernarda’s call for silence, we know that the neighbours have awakened. The thick walls have been rendered useless and the tyrannical figure of Bernarda fall a prey to societal judgement. Bibliography L ORCA, Federico Garcia Three Tragedies: Blood Wedding, Yerma, Bernarda Alba. Translated by J. G. Lujan and R. L. O'Connell. New York, New Directions Publishing, 1955.

To Tax or Not to Tax

To Tax or Not to Tax: The Problem of America Money, like a cookie, is something everybody wants, and when it is gone a person blames everybody else for its absence; realizing later they were the one to consume it in the first place. Taxes, since the beginning of an organized economy, have been argued over for centuries. At the end of 2012 after surviving the â€Å"end of the world,† tax payers were faced with another apocalyptic situation, the Fiscal Cliff.It had the potential to raise taxes to outrageous rates, and despite the dismissal of the Cliff, the issue had just been pushed onto the back burner of the economy and will be readdressed later this year. On one hand, by keeping low taxes the state is unable to create a sufficient amount of money to pay off its debt. Instead, many people argue that by raising taxes the increased prices of items will actually harm the nation’s economic recovery (Russell).Taxes should be increased because facing the national debt is ine vitable and the country is will be unable to recover from the mounting debt until it’s citizens help bring it back from its economic grave. Taxes are directly connected to the economy of a nation, and due to this many people argue that the government needs to cut spending on government programs that are causing the debt to increase. Yet, it was revealed that automatic budget cuts were part of the Fiscal Cliff, and would have saved $109 billion in federal spending on defense and non-defense programs alike. â€Å"President To Make Argument For Fiscal Cliff  Plans†). Ironically, people argued that the government needs to cut, but as it was revealed that is exactly what the cliff was aiming to do. The Fiscal Cliff could have cut unnecessary costs causing the debt to lessen, and in turn reduced swollen deficits (Dixon). This reduction can decrease the debt but even with the removal of these programs the large debt the nation has would be unable to be quickly and efficient ly taken care of at current tax rates.This proves that cutting costs can not solely help the economic situation. Despite this, the resulting chain reaction caused by cutting certain budgets benefits the United States overall because it organizes the spending of the nation and can prevent unnecessary costs. By going over the Cliff, one possibility is that the nation could fall into a recession. Yet, the government discussed the possibility of raising taxes on the rich to make up for taxes that could be placed on the middle class.Economists, who have analyzed the possible effects of going over this â€Å"cliff,† argue that this would result in preventing the economy from completely going over (Cohen). Although, taxes will have to be raised on everybody anyways due to newly enacted health care programs. This tax raise is justifiable because these new programs are meant to help citizens but it is unlikely for things to come without a price, â€Å"though the people support the go vernment; the government should not support the people,† (Cleveland).This plan to raise taxes by 39% is actually an advantage for tax payers because it will be made permanent meaning that after families adjust to the new income amount they will receive, after taxes have been removed from the overall amount, they will not have to worry about being faced with another scramble to extend tax policies in the future (Ohlemacher). The certainty this can provide families with a regular tax plan they can adjust to without major changes in the future. The economic world can be both a clam sea and a brewing storm, although with a consistent tax plan tax payers will be able to comfortably sail this reliable ocean.Often, before acting, one looks to the examples of others for guidance; for the mistakes of others will not be theirs. Britain has remained the main nation America looks at when discussing politics and this was proven no different when discussing economics. Conceders have argued that raising taxes would not fix anything, as proven by the British example. In 2010 Cameron took office, axing the government’s budget, a potential plan in the Fiscal Cliff, yet the gross domestic product is below the level it had been at when Cameron had started (Brown).This comparison proves inaccurate because governments are individualistic and many factors, such as the executives chosen in the government and the differing economies or markets in each country, could affect the result of certain decisions. Britain’s ailment is specifically due to a lack of demand not of supply, Adam Posen, a specialist in British economics, argued, and the U. S. cannot be properly compared to the parliamentary government of Britain (Brown). If the government was to raise taxes it is not guaranteed that it would result negatively on the economy as a whole.Actually, by raising taxes the nation is being given a chance to reform the tax code and broaden the base in the future (Cohen). A trip to the drawing board of economics combined with an on the dot tax plan could revolutionize the economy of America instead of resulting in disaster as many people against the raise in taxes have argued. To tax or not to tax; that is the problem. Despite arguments for a decrease in taxes it is clear that if the government ignores the demand for money to appease the increasing debt then the economy will fall into a harsh depression that will become harder to fix.Citizens put their safety in the hands of the government, they put their children’s safety in the hands of the government, they put their education in the hands of the government, and they put their money in the hands of the government. Why then can they not put their trust? Taxes should be raises so that the deficit does not increase to a larger rate. It is time to start refilling the empty bank of American. Works Cited Brown, Abram. â€Å"The Argument Against Fiscal Cliff Austerity: Just Look At Britain's Mess. â€Å"Forbes.Forbes Magazine, 24 Dec. 2012. Web. 24 Jan. 2013. Cleveland, Grover. Quote – Though the People Support the Government; the Government Should Not Support the People†¦ on Quotations Book. N. p. , n. d. Web. 16 Feb. 2013. Cohen, Tom. â€Å"Fiscal Cliff: What Isn't Said Tells More than Actual Words. †Ã‚  CNN. Cable News Network, 07 Dec. 2012. Web. 24 Jan. 2013. Dixon, Kim. â€Å"Analysis: â€Å"Fiscal Cliff' Deal Called a Dud on Deficit Front. †Ã‚  Chicago Tribune. Chicago Tribune, 01 Jan. 2013. Web. 24 Jan. 2013. Dubay, Curtis S. â€Å"Send This Report to a Friend.   The Heritage Foundation. The Heritage Foundation, 9 Jan. 2013. Web. 24 Jan. 2013. Ohlemacher, Stephen. â€Å"Fiscal Cliff Deal Will Raise Taxes On 77 Percent Of Americans: Tax Policy Center Analysis. †Ã‚  The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost. com, 02Jan. 2013. Web. 24 Jan. 2013. â€Å"President To Make Argument For Fiscal Cliff  Plans. †Ã‚  Breaking News for Bla ck America. News One, 27 Nov. 2012. Web. 24 Jan. 2013. Russell, Don. â€Å"A Clear Concise Look at the ‘Fiscal Cliff' Controversy. †Ã‚  Examiner. com. Examiner, 4 Dec. 2012. Web. 24 Jan. 2013.