Art Therapy Essay

I. Introduction, History, and Problem â€Å"Art speaks of originality, individuality, a creative process, graphic materials, colors, textures, spontaneity, risk, alternatives, and imagination†¦ Therapy implies taking care of, waiting, listening, healing, moving towards wholeness, growth provoking medicine, human exchange, sympathetic understanding† (Fleshman and Fryrear, 1981, p.75), quoting from a research paper of Dr. Carol Lark of The Art Center in Missouri. So what then truly is Art Therapy? Art therapy is a form of psychological therapy that employs artistic media, not verbal communication, as its principal means of communication to help and cure patients, who are suffering from traumatic experiences, mental or physical problems, and behavioral imbalance. Art media includes painting or drawing, photo image, sculpture, clay art, color art and other forms that showcase their feelings, moods, and maybe even show hidden talents or abilities that they are not aware of. But clients who are in need of this therapy do not have to be skilled in the arts, for the main concern is not the aesthetics of the creation but to cause change and growth in the life of the client. Art therapy is a procedure administered by an art therapist in a designated art therapy room to bring about a successful result of the practice. The art therapist is a highly-trained and experienced professional whose skills are tested by a patient in a complex and difficult task to improve his/her well-being. They are well educated about human nature and development, psychological theories, clinical practice, spiritual, multicultural and artistic language and traditions, and the healing probabilities of art. Art therapist convenes with people of all ages and social standing either in individual or group settings. The art therapy room or â€Å"creative arena† (Case, 1992, p.19) is the place where a â€Å"triangular relationship† (Case, 1992, p.19) is formed by the art work created, the patient or client, and the therapist. This kind of relationship is what makes art therapy different form other clinical practices of therapy. This arena is expected to be a place of security and of peace so that the right therapeutic process is administered thoroughly and far better results are achieved. Art therapy was first coined by an artist named Adrian Hill who was practicing it with his tuberculosis patients at the King Edward VII Sanatorium in Sussex to recover from their illness. In its formative years in the United States, from the early 1930s through the middle 1950s, art therapy was practiced by fine artists and art educators in medical, psychiatric and educational centers and facilities. Although the first post was established in 1946, early stages of the profession of art therapy were seen in the 1950s. There were debates and discussions whether it is to be considered a profession or an acceptable mode of therapy in psychology. Through the other disciplines, these are psychology, sociology, anthropology, physiology, aesthetics, and education, it later became known as a profession and was officially recognized in the health service in 1981. It became extensively distinguished from then on and is continuously expanding. Since art therapy is practiced by different therapists, it is rather a diverse career or clinical practice. However, despite the diversity of work, I believe that art therapy improves/changes attitude of people who have psychological problems. II. Function/Significance of Research This research is designed to further address the argument within this kind of profession: whether it is the art creation itself that serves as a healing mediator, whether it is the existence of the therapist that uplifts the distraught, whether it is the art therapy place that serves as a temporary haven, or is it the overall components of art therapy-the art, the therapist, and the therapy room- working together as a team to improve the condition of the patient. It aims to present an understanding of art therapy as an effective psychotherapeutic approach to patients and give them an idea of the progress of this clinical practice. The discussion in the rationale page is an extensive talk about the real claims of art therapy as a healing process to psychologically-impaired individuals. It talks about the factors that comprise a sound art therapy session and the affirmation seen by therapists on their clients after the artistic experience is explored. This paper intends to introduce to the readers both the theory, applications, and practices of art therapy and gives them the imagination to discover the value of it through different work settings. There is also the attempt to summarize the most important points and features of this kind of practice for understanding of new readers to this field. Although, the foremost objective of this paper is to make people believe what they think is unbelievable in the arts and its purpose. To let them realize that healing is not just a personal struggle if you let other people come into your life and show you the way to personal redemption. III. Rationale (explore the hypothesis) When Hill started to practice art therapy, he discovered that painting has two purposes for the patient: it became a way to kill the time and it also provided them a medium to release anxiety and trauma. Even in the most serious or aggravating situations in our lives, through artistic expressions we experience a sense of power and liberation; our dignity and self-respect are stimulated by this creative activity as opposed to those who say that creative expression is a shallow approach to good health and well-being. History shows that self-repair and total transformation is achieved through the dominant force of art expression. Victims of disaster, tragedy, despair, or the daily dangers of life respond to these kinds of cases with affirmations of care and love for each other due to the healing process of art therapy conducted in peaceful and safe places of free expression. Take for example the case of 9/11 terrorist attacks. During their time of grief, people gathered together to release the negative emotions and commemorate the loss of their loved ones. Despite the hatred and anger, compassion among them superseded everything. Within the area of attacks, people offered flowers, prayers, songs, and presented memorabilia such as drawings, sketches, photo images of the victims. These are true examples of artistic expression, both the verbal and nonverbal medium that help the families and friends of the victims overcome the pain and trauma of losing a loved one. â€Å"Psychological safety is a primary element of the healing environment† (Kalmanowitz, 2005, p.xiv) because they are afraid to reveal themselves in places where they believe their artworks and actions will be misunderstood and shamed. In this tragedy, even though the towers were the targets of attacks, these people felt secure expressing their grief because mainly of the overflow of emotions encompassing the area. They felt that it was okay to pour out their pain, and they were not alone. Volunteer groups, either professional or non-professional clinicians, stood by them and comforted the down-trodden. But the process did not end there because survivors were involved in support group therapy that uses art as the basis of healing. Any creation or image presented by the client signifies an emotion or thought, even the past, present, or future phases of his/her life. Inner experience and feelings surface through the art process in a chaotic raw form. These art materials provide a concrete way through which the conscious and unconscious aspects of a person can be revealed. Art or expressive therapy grants an opportunity for the individual to discern the bad habits that generate conflicts within himself and conflicts with other people. â€Å"Making the invisible visible is a major function of the art in art therapy† (Lark, 2001, p.1). The object appears to the therapist as an extension of the client’s self with a symbolic meaning yet to be understood by both of them. The object or image is telling us a story. It opens opportunities to enter and read the human psyche. The making of an artwork encourages discipline and self-esteem, and requires socialization within the confinements of the therapeutic sessions. The judgment and comprehension of the therapist is based on how the object is made and what art materials are used to complete the image. Therapists are expected to learn the underlying meanings of it since this was part of their education and practice. Therapists are expected to be sensitive people on matters of sensitivity of the client’s mind and soul. Let’s take another example designed by art therapy practitioners. The â€Å"House-Tree-Person technique† (Hammer, 1964, p.9) is one of the popular and widely-used psychoanalytic tasks used as an approach in art therapy. The House-Tree-Person technique requires the client to draw a house, a tree and a person on a white paper. This drawing or image evaluates how the client sees himself or herself in the world through the comprehension of the therapist. The branches of the Tree overextended upward or outward are interpreted by the therapist as the subject’s over striving for success. Windows situated against the wall of the House, so the side of the House also serves as one side of the windows, represent feelings of lack of self-confidence. If in profile view, only one part of the person-for example, head or body- is shown, an elusive attitude in social affairs is projected. For deeply depressed patients, lack of complete details and use of very faint lines are a combination found in their works. A feeling of isolation, exposure, and helplessness in the face of environmental pressures is, on the other hand, seen in a line sloping downwards and away from the drawn whole. Meanwhile, art therapy with individual clients and groups should also be considered as to the client’s presentation of his art. Individual client setting is requested when he/she feels more comfortable in creative expression if it is a direct one on one approach. Group therapy setting is rather joined by an individual if she feels profited by another person’s warmth and physical closeness, which is based on the philosophy that man is a social being. However, group clients still break away from each other at some points and that has to be understood and patiently addressed by the therapist. IV. Methodology of Research The methodology of research I used is mainly through the inductive technique or the collection of data and evaluation of results. Definition, background, historical context and other useful data were collated from resource books on art therapy and from the suppositions of clinical practitioners of art therapy. Data collected were also taken from some research and background academic papers of art therapy professionals. The case sample on the 9/11 attacks were based on newspaper and television accounts, audio-visual and printed memories and notes of the tragedy by journalists. The concrete sample of House-Tree-Person technique was taken from an author’s description. Most research details were gathered from the books and resource papers of authors Lark, Case, Kalmanowitz, and Hammer, carefully examined and understood. Although interviews were not taken, personal notes of motivation and daily observation on people around were also bases on this research. Motivational quotations were also extracted from the resources to define the drama of the whole healing process. V. Conclusion of Research Art therapy can be used with children, adolescents and adults in a wide variety of settings and applications. As an integrative therapy, it offers a necessary option for clients who may need an experiential, less verbally-driven approach. People in all walks of life turn to creative expressions, some may not even be aware that they are already exposed to this activity, because of the lack of knowledge and help from professionals. There are national organizations in and outside America looking after the improvement or development of standards and training in art therapies. One is seen in private offices or corporations, outpatient clinics and hospitals, community and rehabilitation centers, prisons, and schools or universities. They work with individual or group to paint, draw, or do other artwork and derive the importance of imagery used in their creations. These professionals and organizations work hand in hand with each other to bring about a better quality of service in art therapy for their craft and for the benefit of their clients. It has to be realized by the people around psychologically-problematic cases that healing does not only come from the successful art therapy sessions, but their support also contributes to the whole process that they want to achieve for themselves or for other people. Lest they forget that some of the causes of their depression, stress, trauma, and tensions come from their family and society. The successful interpretation of the art object by the therapist, the willingness of the client to open up to the therapist and to other people as well, the comfortable and secure setting of the therapy room, and the artwork itself be it aesthetically balanced or not, all of these components of art therapy are relevant to the client’s well being. The absence of one component means the incomplete and ineffective process of art therapy. Kalmanowitz (2005) also believed that â€Å"the healing qualities of art relate to the total spectrum of the soul’s experience and that art therapy’s relevance is dependent upon its willingness to meet new challenges and go to places where troubles in the human condition exist† (p.xii). Friedrich Nietzsche also once said that unless we deal with our pain, we are truly lost. So much has been said to validate the real nature of art therapy in personal and communal perspectives then and now. But one thing is for sure, art therapy and its relations with other disciplines will continue to develop in the future. Art therapy really changes/improves the attitude of people with psychological problems. We just have to look within ourselves and we might find the urge to help them; we have to look again within ourselves and we might find ourselves needing the therapy for our own conscious and unconscious demons tearing us apart. In these difficult times, we are everyday faced with disconcerting situations where we are left in the middle of the struggle and we do not know how to fight back. These kinds of situations when treated with neglect, thrown away in the air as if it is nothing, are the ones that are dangerous to the human psyche. Do you want to see yourself dancing in the streets naked? Can you see one of your family members killing herself or himself? Would you like to see a world of deranged men acting as beasts? That is why God created us in his own image and likeness, for us to realize that we are made human beings to love and be loved just like he did. References Case, C. and Tessa Dalley. (1992). The Handbook of Art Therapy. New York: Tavistock/Routledge. Fleshman, B. and Jerry L. Fryrear. (1981). The Arts in Therapy. Chicago: Nelson-Hall. Hammer, E. (1964). The House-Tree-Person (H-T-P) Clinical Research Manual. New York: Western Psychological Services. Hill, A. (1941). Art versus Illness. London: George Allen & Unwin. Kalmanowitz, D. and Bobby Lloyd. (2005). Art Therapy and Political Violence: With Art, Without Illusion. London: Bruner-Routledge. Killick, K. and Joy Schaverien. (1997). Art, Psychotherapy and Psychosis. London: Routledge. Lark, C. (2001). Art Therapy Overview: An Informal Background Paper. Retrieved from http://www.art-therapy.com/ArtTherapyOverview.htm. Waller, D. (1993). Group Interactive Art Therapy: Its Use in Training and Treatment. London: Routledge

Industrial revoloution Essay

How bad were the living conditions for the poor in the newly industrialised towns and cities of the 1840s In the 1840s, there was a lot of pollution, and there was little regulation of what was put into the river or the air. The houses for 1840s workers were built very poorly. They were usually made by the factory owners at minimum cost. They were made either one brick, or half a brick thick, and only consisted of one room. There were no indoor lavatories, therefore the workers were left with only two ways to go to the toilet. The first way was to walk up the road and use the toilets at either end of the blocks. Once there they would deposit their body waste into the cess pool via a wooden bench. Flies lived on the walls of the cess pool. They were nourished by the molecules of excretion in the air. There toilets would be shared by as many as 160 people, sometimes more. The cess pool would empty itself into the river, but sometimes market gardeners who would go down into the cess pit to use the filth inside as fertiliser for their garden. Occasionally, young children would drop into the cess pit, never to be seen again. The second way of going to the toilet was to simply do it out of a window. The body waste which was left on the streets was called night mud. Sometimes when it rained, the night mud would slip underneath your door and end up in your house. Sometimes the night mud would be placed in your house on purpose by people being malicious. People did not have the type of water supply we have today. They did not have instant running water in their houses, instead they had to collect their water from standpipes in the street. These standpipes had clean water which could be pumped out, as it wasn’t safe to drink from the river, but water only came to a street, via these standpipes, every other day. Yet, there were also water seller who would sell bottles of supposedly, clean water, although no one ever found out where the water came from. People in the 1840’s were afraid to leave their houses for an extended period  of time. The reason for this is that as soon as you leave you house for over a day, it would be used as a toilet. This meant that people who got new jobs in factories would have to clean out there new houses of all of the muck left there by their fellow workers. In the 1840s, living conditions were much worse than nowadays, due to the lack of both appropriate sanitary provisions and constant running water, but people of 1840’s would have found those conditions normal. What we think of as clean would have probably been considered impossible in those days.

Racism and Anti-Semitism

Racism and Anti-Semitism: Is it still A Problem in the United States? Melody D. Rahimi Logic Dr. Fail November 19, 2011 Racism and Anti-Semitism: Is it still A Problem in the United States? Racism and Anti-Semitism is an old debate. Although, most everyone thinks racism is objectionable, which ranges from cognitive, economic, or moral. Racism is the belief that human beings can be divided into races and that members of some races are inferior to members of other races. (Null, 2011). Anti-Semitism is prejudice against Jews. Racism and anti-Semitism is complex and still is a problem in the United States. Argument There are still racism and anti-Semitism crimes in the United States. In 2010, law enforcement agencies reported that 3,725 single-bias hate crime offenses were racially motivated. (Hate Crime, 2010). Of these offenses 69. 8 percent were motivated by anti-black bias. 18. 2 percent stemmed from anti-white bias. 5. 7 percent were a result of bias against groups of individuals consisting of more than one race (anti-multiple races, group. 5. 1 percent resulted from anti-Asian/Pacific Islander bias. 1. 2 percent were motivated by anti-American Indian/Alaskan Native bias. The Anti-Defamation League's annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents recorded 1,239 anti-Semitic incidents across the United States in 2010, which represents a 2. 3% increase over 2009. These included 22 physical assaults on Jewish individuals (down from 29 in 2009). There were 900 cases of anti-Semitic harassment, threats and events (up from 760 in 2009). Lastly, there were 317 cases of anti-Semitic vandalism (down from 422 in 2009). (Anti-Semitism, 2010). These statics show a slight increase in incidents and that racism and anti-Semitism still exists in the United States. There is till problem in the United States with racism and anti-Semitism. Racism and Anti-Semitism has existed throughout history. Racism is defined as hatred towards another – the belief that the other person is less human – because of language, place of birth, skin color, or customs. Racism has influenced every aspect of culture from wars, slavery, and nations. The United States power towards non-Am ericans has had a significant impact on history than any other form of racism. The first example of America is slavery. Slavery happened because the racist believed that Black Americans were less human than whites. The anger toward the Jews dates to the beginning of Jewish history. Christianity increased the hatred of the Jew. While America is caught up in racial uproar, the Middle East is center for the most anti-Semitism. (Hate Crime, 2010). Most Jewish Americans are moderate to liberal in their political affiliations. They are strong supporters of civil liberties and support clear separation of church and state, perhaps recalling their ancestors’ persecutions at the hands of religious authorities. The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913 to combat anti-Semitism, continues to monitor and report anti-Semitic incidents in the United States. It also supports civil liberties and a pro-Israeli foreign policy. (Anti-Semitism, 2010). Knowing the history of racism and anti-Semitism allows us to see that the problem has not been resolved over time. There is still a problem in the United States. There is a deductive argument for racism. Racism is a problem (P is S). Problem is unresolved (S is I). Therefore, racism is unresolved. (P is I). Then the inductive argument for racism is n 2010, of the 6,624 single bias incidents. There were 47. 3 percent were motivated by a racial bias (P). In 2009, Of the 6,598 single-bias incidents, 48. percent were motivated by a racial bias (P). In 2008, of the 7,780 single-bias incidents revealed that 51. 3 percent were motivated by a racial bias, (P). In 2011, of the single bias incidents, at least forty five percent will be motivated by racial bias. There is a deductive argument for Anti-Semitism. Anti-Semitism is a problem. (P is S). Problem is unresolved (S is I). Therefore, Anti-Semitism is unresolved. (P is I). Then the inductive argument for anti-Semitism is in 2010, 1,239 anti-Semitic incidents across the United States (P). In 2009, there were 1,211 anti-Semitic incidents across the United States (P). In 2008, there were 1,352 anti-Semitic incidents across the United States (P). In 2011, of the anti-Semitic incidents across the United States, there will be 1,200. Of the agreements presented, there is still a problem with racism and anti-Semitism in the United States. Counter-Thesis and Counter-Argument However, there are other thoughts on racism and anti-Semitism. The counter thesis or argument would be that racism and anti-Semitism is not a problem in the United States today. One might say this is a moral argument. According to Mossler, â€Å"Moral arguments are different from other kinds of arguments. The main difference is this behind every conclusion about what â€Å"should† be done, ethically speaking, there is a value or values. Also, the values that underlie our moral arguments can typically be boiled down to three main kinds this problem would be considered values that relate to freedom (justice, respect, rights, equality, and so on). † (Mossler, 2010). Response to Counter-Thesis The response to the counter-thesis is although it is a moral argument, the deductive and inductive arguments premises and conclusions state that there is still a problem with racism and anti-Semitism in the United States. Therefore, there is still a problem in the United States. â€Å"Social theorists dispute whether, in its essence, racism is a belief or an ideology of racial inferiority, a system of social oppression on the basis of race, a form of discourse, discriminatory conduct, or an attitude of contempt or heartlessness (and its expression in individual or collective behavior). † (Racism, 1999). â€Å"Although virtually everyone thinks racism objectionable, people disagree over whether its central defect is cognitive (irrationality, prejudice), economic/prudential (inefficiency), or moral (unnecessary uffering, unequal treatment). † (Racism, 1999). Today one hears charges of unconscious, covert, institutional, paternalistic, benign, anti-racist, liberal, and even reverse racism. Racism is widely regarded as involving ignorance, irrationality, unreasonableness, injustice, and other intellectual and moral vices, to such an extent that today virtually no one is willing to accept the classification of oneself, one’s beliefs, and so on, as racist, except in contexts of self-reproach. As a result, classifying anything as racist, beyond the most egregious cases, is a serious charge and is often hotly disputed. † (Racism, 1999). In conclusion, people vary in their opinions about racism and anti-Semitism. These topics are an old debate. Although, most everyone thinks racism is objectionable, which ranges from cognitive, economic, or moral. Racism and anti-Semitism is complex and still is a problem in the United States. After reading the statics and history, we can believe that racism and anti-Semitism is still a problem in the United States. We can testify that we have witnessed or seen racism or anti-Semitism in our life. References The Anti-Defamation League. (1913). Retrieved from http://www. adl. org/main_Anti_Semitism_Domestic/default. htm Anti-Semitism. (2010). In Culture Wars: An Encyclopedia of Issues, Viewpoints, and Voices. Retrieved from http://www. credoreference. com/entry/sharpecw/anti_semitism Hate Crime. FBI. http://www. fbi. ov/about-us/cjis/ucr/hate-crime/2010/resources/hate-crime-2010-about-hate-crime (adapted from the sixth edition of the APA Publication Manual,  © 2010) Mosser, K. (2011). An introduction to logic. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (https://content. ashford. edu) Nunn, Kenneth B. â€Å"Anti-Semitism. † World Book Advanced. World Book, 2011. Web. 18 Nov. 2011. Nunn, Kenneth B. â€Å"Racism. † World Book Advanced. World Book, 2011. Web. 18 Nov. 2011. Racism. (1999). In The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy. Retrieved from http://www. credoreference. com/entry/cupdphil/racism

Skills Required to Work as a Deputy Events Manager Essay

Skills Required to Work as a Deputy Events Manager - Essay Example Thus, while the academic qualifications serves to indicate that the individual has sufficient knowledge on the field they are to work, the industrial perspective seeks the expertise that the individual has gained while working in that industry. Thus, to work as a Deputy Events Manager, there are some qualifications and skills deemed necessary. These skills include: The possession of excellent communication skills is one of the relevant qualifications for this post. Without communication, nothing can progress, since it is out of communication that the customer, organization and employee needs can be identified and effectively addressed (Armstrong, 1989 p188). A well developed and all round individual is desired for this position, where writing as well as verbal communication is useful. Verbal communication is more of how you pass the relevant information to others, than it is what you say. Considering that one of the roles that the individual has to play after being hired is to develo p audience growth through marketing and promotional activities, then, excellent communication becomes inevitable. ... This will enhance the ability of the manager to oversee the writing and design of the promotional materials (Hall, 2003 p167). The inability of such a potential employee to connect well with the organization members or his inability to coordinate the development of relevant promotional material due to lack of relevant communication skills would mean the downfall of the organization. Even though technology has played a greater role in assisting individuals to communicate through the provisions of various communication platforms, it does not erode the fact that an individual’s communication skills is a key to enhancing teamwork and cooperation within an organization (Bill, 2011 p28). Lack of such skills is detrimental to the organization in that, the manager may fail to offer suitable leadership to his subordinates, by failing to communicate effectively, on the roles they are supposed to undertake. This further undermines the execution of duties by the subordinate employees, res ulting to chaos and underperformances. Without sufficient communication skills, the individual may not be able to resolve conflicts, both between the subordinates or the organization members, which is a very vital aspect of leadership (Jonathan, 2010 p13). Thus, the possession of these skills is not an option for the prospective event manager. Employee focus and customer service skills are relevant for the prospective occupier of this office. The ability of the individual to connect and entertain the customers of this organization is a skill that the individual suitable for this position cannot do without, anyway. Customers are the most important focus for any business or organization, in that, without customers, then, an organization has no business being in existence (Budd, 2004 p33). The

Nature of Wal-Mart Industry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 78

Nature of Wal-Mart Industry - Essay Example According to Fortune Global 500 in 2014, Wal-Mart was the biggest company by revenue and the largest employer in the private sector worldwide. The number of employees stood at 2.2 million making it is the most valuable company in the world. The operations of Wal-Mart are in three divisions namely Sams Club, Wal-Mart US, and Wal-Mart International with nine retail formats. The formats are supercenters, general merchandise, food and drugs, stores, bodegas, membership warehouse Clubs, cash and carry stores, apparel stores, restaurants, and soft discount stores. The Wal-Mart US is the largest with sales amounting to $258 billion operating discount stores, Neighborhood Markets, and Supercenters. Some of the Wal-Mart stores are located in Argentina, Canada, Brazil, and the UK. The company also involves global eCommerce, which is involved in online sales in the US with headquarters in San Francisco. The main competitors of Wal-Mart in North America include departmental stores such as Kmart, Target, Meijer, and Publix, which sell similar products. One of the main competitor is Target (TGT) in the retail market. Wal-Mart competes directly with Target (TGT) a discount retailer, which offers its goods and services at low prices. Just like Wal-Mart, TGT provides a wide range of products especially staple consumer goods such as household goods, clothing, food, and groceries. TGT also offers discount to its customers to attract them, which is also a common method in Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart sells products at lower prices to attract low-income consumers while TGT targets goes for affluent customers with their high quality merchandise. Both Target and Wal-Mart try to keep their profit margins high through cost reduction measures. Other competitors include Giant Tiger and the Real Canadian Superstore competing for the retail market. Wal-Mart also competes with Mexicos retail stores such as Soriana and Commercial Mexicana.

How you would personally lead a team in times of changes Essay

How you would personally lead a team in times of changes - Essay Example Everything has changed over the time, and this has had a great impact on the way organizations function. As a leader, the responsibility of adopting the right strategy in these times of change fundamentally rests upon the shoulders of the leader. Change in leadership is inevitable. A leader is frequently exposed to circumstances that generate the need for change. A leader must be intelligent and proactive enough to adapt to these changes and make the wisest decision considering the needs of the changed circumstances. The experiences I have shared in this paper discuss what strategies I have employed to deal with the challenges arising as a consequence of changes that took place, and how those strategies helped me achieve my objectives. Each experience that I have shared demonstrates a different kind of change and accordingly, a different strategy I adopted to lead my team to success. Questions that I intend to answer by discussing my personal experiences of change and leadership incl ude but are not limited to; What type of change it was?What were the constraints and how they impacted my ability to lead the group? What was the best course of action to adopt in that change? Â  What rationale did I have to adopt that course of action in those circumstances? How have I incorporated the theoretical concepts of leadership in practice?What were the limitations of my leadership?The behavior of a leader plays a decisive role in the success of the leader as well as the followers.

Ford Case (Marketing) Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Ford Case (Marketing) Analysis - Essay Example However, according to Sullivan-Diaz, her father was never interested in services part of the business and it was only a necessary adjunct of the business. The problem starts right from here because Sullivan family has been unable to identify the strong interdependency between product sales and services. Nowadays, marketing products and services are interdependent because of the changing consumers’ buying behaviour. Consumers make the purchase after considering how the services later on, will benefit them. However, at Auto World, a huge difference has been noticed between their efforts to market products and providing services. First, the showroom was built in modern building with latest facilities and ambient whereas, the services section was hidden behind the showroom and its building was old and greasy however, the equipment was latest. Second, services section had sufficient capacity to handle more repair work but the capacity was not being achieved because of the requirements of more mechanics and more focus of the staff towards unit sales. The major difference between marketing products and service operations is that services require the personal contact or face-face meeting. At Auto World, the buyers of new cars were given a warm welcome however, whenever the same customer came for car services, he used to wait for many hours. The major reason is that marketing cars was being considered to be a highly efficient process whereas, service operations were very inefficient and even the service layout was not properly developed. Auto World is offering tangible products and services to the customers, and both these components are contributing to create value for the customers. Therefore, company should give great focus towards both marketing cars and services operations. If the company has been able to introduce used cars after ensuring their full repair and maintenance, then it should be also efficient in its services operations.

Effects of coffee Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Effects of coffee - Essay Example Coffee contains caffeine which is considered a Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant (Lovett 2005). Accordingly, â€Å"caffeine is the worlds most widely consumed psychoactive substance†. Balentine, Harbowy & Graham (1998) stipulated that â€Å"many natural sources of caffeine also contain widely varying mixtures of other xanthine alkaloids, including the cardiac stimulants theophylline and theobromine and other substances such as polyphenols which can form insoluble complexes with caffeine†. In the Science of Cooking, the article on caffeine exhibited its following properties, to wit: â€Å"soluble in ethyl acetate, chloroform, pyrimidine, pyrrole, tetrahydrofuran solution; moderately soluble in alcohol, acetone; slightly soluble in petroleum ether, ether, benzene†. In another study made specifically on Caffeine, it is found that â€Å"caffeine is metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 oxidase enzyme system (specifically, the 1A2 isozyme) into three metabolic dimethylxanthines, which each have their own effects on the body: Theophylline (4%) Relaxes smooth muscles of the bronchi, and is used to treat asthma. The therapeutic dose of theophylline, however, is many times greater than the levels attained from caffeine metabolism.† (The Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacogenomics Knowledge Base) According to Bolton & Null (1981), the â€Å"precise amount of caffeine necessary to produce effects varies from person to person depending on body size and degree of tolerance to caffeine. It takes less than an hour for caffeine to begin affecting the body and a mild dose wears off in three to four hours. Consumption of caffeine does not eliminate the need for sleep: it only temporarily reduces the sensation of being tired. The International Coffee Organization presented that â€Å"of all the physiological effects of coffee, the best known is that it is a stimulant to the nervous system. One or two cups of

Infection control and prevention Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Infection control and prevention - Essay Example Insertion of central venous catheters (CVCs) has become commonplace in the peri-operative and intensive care setting. Over the years, they have played a reliable role in patient care for haemodynamic management, patent intravenous access in patients suffering from chronic illnesses and administration of parenteral nutrition and other chemotherapeutic agents. The three sites that are utilized for central venous catheter insertion are internal jugular, subclavian and femoral. Although, like any other medical intervention, these catheters have their own share of complications, it is the risk of infection, which has the most serious clinical and economic repercussions for the patient, physician and health care facility with high morbidity and mortality.One survey determined that central lines are associated with more than 40% of blood stream infections in England. Thus, it is imperative that strict infection control measures are enforced during the care of CVCs. Risk of infection in peri -operative setting would depend upon whether the CVC is kept in situ for a long time or it is removed post surgery. Otherwise, rest of the discussion about CRBSI is applicable to ICU as well as peri-operative setting. Definition and diagnosis of CRBSI Catheter related blood stream infection (CRBSI) is a type of hospital acquired infection which is clinically defined as fungemia or bacteremia in a patient with CVC in situ, as shown by positive blood culture from a peripheral vein, along with clinical signs of infection, but no other apparent source for positive blood culture. ... , or, blood sample from a peripheral vein and sample drawn from the catheter hub (IDSA 2012)) Risk of CRBSI in perioperative and ICU setting Many factors have been investigated for the role that they are likely to play in the development of these infections. The factors which have been most commonly scrutinized for their role in causation of CRBSI are: Selection of the type of catheter: single lumen catheters have a lower incidence of CRBSI than multiple lumen, antimicrobial impregnated catheters preferred in centres with high rates of CRBSI or prolonged requirement of CVC (reference no.23), role of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) the site of CVC insertion: Subclavian most preferred, femoral least preferred hand hygiene: technique should be accurately followed aseptic precautions and skin preparation followed during insertion: use of gloves and barrier precautions, skin preparation with chlorhexidine in alcoholic solution nature and material of the dressing applied ov er the insertion site antibiotic ointment systemic antibiotic prophylaxis antimicrobial flush and lock solutions anticoagulant flush replacement of CVCs Replacement of IV administration sets handling of the CVC port by nursing and other health care staff USG guidance at the time of insertion Various studies and clinical trials support or contradict these factors. Also, there are evidence based practices and interventions based on these related factors and derived from the existing knowledge about infection control, which, when diligently followed in ICUs and other health care settings, have demonstrated a decrease in the rate of development of CRBSI (National Institute for Clinical Excellence 2003, Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee 2011). Pathogenesis of Catheter

Legal and Political Aspects in Public Education Essay

Legal and Political Aspects in Public Education - Essay Example CAPE 18 requires that the principal implements strictly the federal, state, and local laws within the learning environment. In this accord, the principal must ensure that the members of staff strictly adhere to the curriculum set by the law. While laws are crucial in ensuring that the teachers have a framework within which to operate, there is evidence that strictness within the learning environment hinders educators’ creativity, which is crucial for modern learning environment. In this light, while laws within the learning environment are crucial to induce ethical behavior and maintain learning standards, they hinder staff creativity. As more laws become part of the learning environment, it becomes crucial to understand their impacts on public education. Over the years, the government has revised its laws that govern public education. The California Administrator performance Expectations is one of the laws that provide guidelines on how the public education staff should conduct themselves within the learning. In CAPE 18, Implementing California Schools Laws, Guidelines and Other Relevant Federal, State and Local Requirements and Regulations, provides guidelines for school heads. This article requires that principals ensure that the staff members remain within the curriculum framework while delivering services in public education. Secondly, it requires that principals maintain high ethical standards while recruiting and dismissing staff. Besides, the principal must ensure that school practices and procedures meet legal maintenance, health, and safety requirements within the learning environment. The implication of this section was that the principals ensure strict implementation of federal, local, and state laws that pertain to education. The law ensures that all staff members work within the legal framework (Catano & Stronge, 2006). Therefore, the law does not admit any diversion from the law, as this would be misconduct

The Stonemason Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Stonemason - Essay Example The Stonemason tale is created with a great regard of the history the United States. McCarthy questions who would run the world if history swallows everybody up (74). The African American population regards greatly the efforts displayed by their ancestors in fighting for their freedom and rights. This fact creates the entire legacy that the African American population enjoys. This specific population group believes that they have achieved what they have by right. Additionally, they vow to value what their proprietors fought for and set aside of them. As Brooks writes, Marmee cannot stop weeping as she narrates to March how a slave had had been branded with a red-hot iron on his face (87). The rights of these slaves is what March believes in and in time, March joins the Underground Railroad to help fleeing slaves get to free countries. As an African American descendant, Ben The Stonemason believes that it was by God’s grace they were redeemed from the shadows of racisms. McCarthy points out that ‘we were pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt and the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand (64). This shows that the fact they have freedom in the United States the black population feel that they have everything to be thankful for what they enjoy in the modern century. Additionally, McCarthy portrays the African American population in The Stonemason to be very religious. This cultural preference is due to the fact that the legacy of the Civil War brings out the character of thanks giving to the black population (64). ... This shows that the fact they have freedom in the United States the black population feel that they have everything to be thankful for what they enjoy in the modern century. Additionally, McCarthy portrays the African American population in The Stonemason to be very religious. This cultural preference is due to the fact that the legacy of the Civil War brings out the character of thanks giving to the black population (64). In The Stonemason Ben believes that the scripture holds the basic requirements of one behavior, ‘you go against the scripture you are on your own, the man up there is not going to help you’ (McCarthy 63). On a negative note, the African Americans are argued to be misunderstanding the legacy the Civil War brought to the society. This is because of the increased conflicts between them. In The Stonemason, Ben lost his nephew, Soldier, due to the street battles. The creation of gangs in championing for the rights of the youths has gone against what the anc estors fought for in the civil war. However, McCarthy points out that it is these small acts of valor may all that is visible of great movements of courage within (131). The African American population respects and acknowledges the Civil War and the efforts by their predecessors in redeeming the population group, but it is because of him that I am not reduced by these mysteries but am one more among them (McCarthy 97). They value their right to operate without discrimination whatsoever in a nation where their grandparents struggled for recognition in the normal society. In The Stonemason, Ben orders Soldier to stay off the streets and gangs and go to school. He also offers him a working

Positive Consequences Essay Example for Free

Positive Consequences Essay Ethnocentrism is the practice of judging other cultures in the context of one’s own culture. By using the standards of a certain culture to assess other cultures, ethnocentric people often make hasty and offensive generalizations about people whose cultural backgrounds differ from theirs. Racial stereotypes and the usage of scapegoats are two negative effects of ethnocentrism. Ethnocentrism A common mistake that occurs in the study of other cultures is the tendency to critically judge the culture being studied using the standards of one’s own culture. In doing so, the researcher imposes the assumptions and perspectives of his or her own culture on everything that he or she encounters about the culture that he or she is studying. The researcher eventually starts to dismiss facts that may appear different or strange to him or her as â€Å"bad,† â€Å"dumb,† â€Å"pagan,† â€Å"primitive,† etc. The end result is that the researcher unknowingly practices ethnocentrism (NCSU-CHASS, n. d. ). â€Å"Us† against â€Å"Them† Merriam-Webster Online (2008) defined ethnocentrism as a â€Å"(belief that is) characterized or based on the attitude that one’s own group is superior† (Merriam-Webster Online, 2008). Ethnocentrism occurs when people make generalizations about other cultures and customs that are based on their own cultural norms. More often than not, ethnocentric individuals unconsciously use their own culture as a universal yardstick that can accurately judge cultures that are different from theirs. As a result, they come up with erroneous, hurtful and disrespectful assumptions about other people (Culbertson, 2008). Positive Consequences Ethnocentrism satisfies the human psyche’s need for identity and belonging. By claiming that his or her culture is â€Å"superior† over other cultures, a person gains a sense of importance over other people. Ethnocentrism also fosters intarethnic loyalty, which, in turn, leads to the survival of a society. In her article Ethnocentrism and Xenophobia: A Cross-Cultural Study (2001), Elizabeth Cashdan argued that being social animals, humans do not have the capacity to survive on their own. They had to form groups or communities wherein members shared the complex responsibilities needed for survival (Cashdan, 2001). But they also have to compete with other groups or communities, especially for resources. In order to win the competition, a community’s sense of identity must be strong enough to motivate its members to abandon personal interests and work together towards the society’s advancement. As a result, the community survives and even improves (Cashdan, 2001). Negative Consequences Ethnocentrism is the root cause of various misconceptions about people of certain cultures. Ethnocentric individuals often create racist stereotypes about them simply because they regard them as â€Å"inferior† or â€Å"uncivilized. † Below are some examples of racist stereotypes: The Mammy. The mammy is the oldest and the most popular racial stereotype regarding African-American women. She is portrayed as dark-skinned, middle aged, overweight, very religious cheerful and extremely loyal and faithful to the white family she was working for. There is no historical evidence that supports the existence of actual mammies. Further research revealed that this stereotype was created to justify the institution of slavery – the mammy was proof that black women were happy and contented as slaves. In addition, her desexualized nature was intended to conceal sexual relations between white men and black female slaves in pre-Civil War America (Pilgrim, 2000). The Tom. The Tom is the male counterpart of the mammy. He is frequently presented as a hardworking, smiling and dependable black server, usually working as a fieldworker, cook, butler, porter or waiter. Just like the mammy, the Tom’s life revolves around his white masters and their families. Furthermore, the Tom is another racial stereotype that was intended to debunk arguments about the evils of slavery. Nowadays, â€Å"Uncle Tom† has evolved into an expression that is used to criticize a black person who is unreasonably subservient to white people. Lotus Blossom. The Lotus Blossom is one of the most well-known stereotypes attached to Asian women. The term â€Å"Lotus Blossom† refers to a prudish, quiet and submissive Asian woman. But Hollywood took this stereotype to a higher level by featuring Asian women who are prudish, quiet and submissive, but at the same time, eager to please white men. Consequently, movies such as â€Å"Street Fighter† and â€Å"The Joy Luck Club† often pair white actors with Asian actresses (Dugong, n. d. ). Dragon Lady. Akin to the Lotus Blossom, the Dragon Lady is also physically stunning. However, the latter uses her sexuality to get what she wants. Aside from having the ability to seduce men, the Dragon Lady also has superior physical strength and martial arts skills. It is believed that she â€Å"has the power to hypnotize her male rivals, gain trust by seducing them, and when they least expect it, she rids of them through sabotage or backstabbing† (Dugong, n. d. ). As a result, this stereotype projected the misconception that Asian women are avaricious and not trustworthy (Dugong, n. d. ). Scapegoats The usage of scapegoats is another detrimental effect of ethnocentrism. Some people and or organizations unjustly blame other people or groups for the occurrence of certain problems. The targets, in turn, receive rejection and even outright persecution from parties that the perpetrators have managed to influence. The Holocaust is a classic example of using other people as scapegoats. Adolf Hitler got himself into power by constantly blaming the Jews for Germany’s economic, political and social instability after World War I. Conclusion There is a saying that prejudice is the idle man’s substitute for thinking. This byword is very much applicable in ethnocentrism. Instead of taking the time to really know other cultures, some people would rather judge them negatively simply because they are different from their culture. True, attacking other cultures unfairly may be cathartic. But doing so also exposes ethnocentric individuals as insecure people who put other people down to make themselves look and feel good.

Music Therapy And Personality Theory Psychology Essay

Music Therapy And Personality Theory Psychology Essay Personality theory is focused on the thoughts, feelings and behaviour of human beings, including their interactions with their social environment (Funder, 1994). From this comment it could be suggested that personality is made up of the characteristic patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviours that make a person unique. In addition to this, Piedmont supports that personality come up from inside the individual and remains fairly consistent throughout life  [1]  . Ancient Greeks were the first who talked about personality and the elements that affect it, which are the earth, the water, the air and the fire. Hippocrates and Galen supported that character is attributed to the mixing of the juices that exist in the body, such as blood, yellow and black bile and the phlegm. From this, four types of character are created: the choleric, the melancholic, the sanguine and phlegmatic. During the years, several theories have been developed for identifying the traits and structure of human personality and each of which was influenced by the ideological and methodological background of the founder such as Freud, Cattell, Eysenck, Hartmann, Jung. Although all these considerations have their strengths and manage to significantly penetrate the deeper essence of the concept of personality, nowadays a new theory have been established upon which most modern psychologists of personality seem to agree. This new approach is called Big Five Dimensions and argues th at human personality can be fully described by five key factors. These factors are: Openness to experience: which describes the ability to open and explore unknown situations, to recruit new experiences (imagination, broad range of interests) Conscientiousness: which focuses on whether the conduct of the individual aims to achieve an end and is governed by inner values, standards and ethics(thoughtfulness, organized, planful) Extraversion: which evaluates the quality and intensity of social relationships of individuals (sociability, talkativeness, excitability) Agreeableness: which examines the quality of the relationship of the individual with others and with himself ( trust, altruism, kindness, affection) Neuroticism: which refers to emotional balance and the adjustment of the individual (emotional instability, anxiety, moodiness, irritability, sadness) Another personality inventory was the one of Eyesenck which measures personality using two scales. Introversion-extraversion, stability-instability. Eysencks theory was based on the four temperaments methodologies, first formalised and popularised by ancient Greeks. According to Eysenck, there are four types of personality. The choleric types are the unstable extraverts and they have qualities such as touchy, aggressive, changeable, optimistic, active, excitable and restless. The melancholic types are the unstable introverts their qualities are such as quiet, reserved, pessimistic, sober, rigid, anxious and moody. Sanguine types are the stable extraverts they are talkative, outgoing, responsive, lively, easygoing, carefree, leadership and sociable. Phlegmatic are the stable introvert and they are calm, even-tempered, reliable, controlled, peaceful, thoughtful, careful and passive. It is widely accepted that human behaviour is shaped by the influence of different factors, and this includes a musicians personality as well. Such factors include both genetic and environmental influences. Becoming a musician does not depend on genetic reasons per se or solely on how effective the learning process is. Mainly it is based on a complicated combination of different factors which influence every individual in different proportions. Nearly all researches agree that human traits are jointly determined by both nature and nurture, though they may disagree about the relative contribution of each. (Ceci and Wiliams, 2000). Genetic structure may be a factor that influences someone to become a musician. Some people are born with a music gift and through years in combination with the environment they can develop it. However, the importance of genetic influences decreases over time as individual experiences and social environment becomes more important. Social environment help determine the status of individual, the roles they perform, the duties they are bound by and the privileges they enjoy (Pervin and Jones, 2001). Indeed, the social environment can be a drive wheel for someone to develop a musical gift. By action and by example, parents shape the lives the behavior and the choices of their children from birth through adulthood (Ceci and Williams,1999).  [2]  If the child is raised in a musical environment, with parents musicians or listening to music all the time, then the possibility of becoming a musician is higher. This can also be seen in the past, in Baroque, Classical and Romantic eras, where most famous composers or pianists had great music parental guidance by their musician parents. Also if a child decides to be a musician, he often needs the support of the family in order to maintain his interest in music from an early age. Feltovic (2006) stated that The amount of instrumental practice from an early age is of vit al importance for later musical performance . In addition, if a child is associated with other children related to music, then the possibilities to develop an interest in music are increased. Previous findings on musical development have rarely indicated that learning efficiency is an essential aspect of musical expertise. (Gaunt Hallam, 2009) Indeed, effective learning and a teachers influence also play an important role on childrens performance. Teachers could positively affect the interest of a student for music by offering encouragement, and also negatively discourage a student by failing to support the child properly. The effective learning and good teachers who truly value students might turn children into music For example the teacher can increase the level of interest in music by making music learning more enjoyable for students. Teachers can have a great influence on children thus I believe that if children love the teacher, then they are likely to love music as well. Finally socio- economic conditions and many other unpredictable factors may affect a child positively or negatively to follow a musical path. Music education in developing countries appears not to have been a major priority since the lack of financial resources prevents these countries to meet their citizens educational needs. For example in Africa only 4.6%  [3]  of all schools in the country have music rooms. After analysing the reasons that may influence someone to become a musician instead of another, the next step is to identify possible factors that may determine someones personality after becoming a musician. Does every type of music affect musicians personality the same level? Is each kind of music related to specific emotional characteristics? Research has shown that various aspects of our personality are related to the types of music that we choose (Mitch Beavers and Lauren Mutispaugh). In their research on whether personality predicts music preference, observe that those who listen to classical music appear to be less agreeable and prefer sad music. The same research detects that individuals who listen to heavy metal music were low conscientiousness with low emotional stability. Rentfrow and Gosling (2003) using the Short test of music preference, they concluded that listeners of the same kind of music, had similar characteristics. Country music lovers tend to be low in openness to experiences, but high in conscientiousness. They also appear to prefer music that is simpler in nature. Jazz music lovers are more open to experiences and prefer complex music. Blues music listeners prefer music that is more complex and sad. Folk, rock, and heavy metal tend to prefer more complex music. Pop listeners tend to prefer more simple music. Religious music appears to have higher self-esteem and prefer happy music. Classical music and soundtracks appear to less agreeable and prefer more complex and sad music. Rap and hip-hop seem to be more agreeable, extraverted, and to prefer music that is happy and simple in nature. Heavy metal music appears to be low in both conscientiousness and emotional stability. In a research on Classical music preferences, Burt found that the participants tastes differed according to the extraversion, introversion but also on the emotional stability. In his study, Burt concluded that stable extraverts preferred classical and baroque music (Handel, Verdi, Brahms) which possessed characteristics like solidity, balance, brightness and predictability. On the other hand, stable introverts also preferred classical and baroque period but with a preference on absolute, intellectual and cognitive music like Bach. Moreover, Burt found that unstable extraverts preferred romantic music which has strong contrasts is emotional and vigorous (Wagner, Liszt, Berloz). In contrast, unstable introverts also preferred romantic music but impressionistic and mystical pieces like Debussys, Chopins and Webers (cited in Kemp, 1996).  [4]   According to a research by Delsing, Bogt, Engels and Meeus,  [5]  heavy metal, punk, gothic and rock listeners were found to be related to openness to experience but not to conscientiousness and to extraversion. Jazz, classical and gospel listeners tend to be high on conscientiousness, agreeableness and openness to experience but low on emotional stability. Hip hop, soul, rap trance and techno listeners were found related to extraversion and agreeableness. Finally, a research by Professor Adrian North, notes that heavy metal and classical listeners have similar emotional characteristics since both are creative, calm and unsociable. Furthermore, another factor that determines personality is the kind of gender. Indeed, the effect that music has on personality must be analysed in proportion to the gender of every individual. Even when both man and woman are related to a specific kind of music, it has been noticed that still their personality characteristics are not the same. In a research by Eric Lacourse, Michel Claes and Martin Villeneuve (2001) about heavy metal music and adolescent suicidal risk , it seems that girls fan of this kind of music, are more suicidal than boys. Recently there have been many research efforts on whether musician tend to embody certain personality type. The literature offers some evidence regarding links between personality and musician activity. Wayne Gillespie and Brett Mayors, by examining rock and popular musicians who completed the Revised NEO Personality Inventory and a questionnaire, conclude that Rock musicians share a common profile. Rock musicians were high neurotic, open to experience, average extravert, low agreeable and conscientious. On the other hand, in a research by Dyce and O Connor, concluded that popular musicians are extraverted, emotionally unstable and imaginative. In a research about orchestral instrumentalists, Langendorfer concluded that string players had significant high scores on conscientiousness than woodwind and brass players.  [6]   In his book the musical temperament, Anthony Kemp states that the musicians temperament involves a proclivity to sensitivity, introversion, anxiety, intelligence, and independence (Kemp 1996). Buttsworth and Smith (1995) indicate that performing musicians are more emotionally stable and sensitive. Singers appear to differ from instrumentalists and share personality traits with dancers, such as emotionality and hypochondrias are (Marchant-Haycox Wilson, 1992). In their book Parncutt and Mcpherson  [7]  , state those children who are more introverted, studious and quieter usually tend to prefer string instruments, while more extroverted and socially outgoing prefer brass instruments. Singers also tend to be more extraverted sensitive and imaginative, whereas keyboard players tend to be also extraverted but not as much as the singers and the brass players. CONCLUSSION Music and personality are two issues that cannot be analyzed in a 20 minutes presentation or in a 2000 words essay. This presentation answered three questions that are important as far as concern music and personality. Which factors affect someones personality to become a musician? What types of music do different personalities tend to prefer? Do musicians tend to embody certain personality type? My conclusion is that both nature and nurture, social and musical environment, peers, socio-economic conditions, teachers and effective learning are factors that may influence someone to become a musician. I believe that music do not influence personality, but there is a direct relation between the music we listen and to our personality, which includes our thoughts, lifestyles, places we choose for entertainment, clothes, companionship. Because of our personality we choose certain types of music to listen to or to become musicians of the kind of music that reflects our personality. Of course most musicians have similar elements on their personality like sensitivity, anxiety, introversion, but this is not essential for all. The musicians expresses some feelings or experiences, based from their life, like poorness, parents divorce or even a death of a close person. Some musicians may live the same experiences, but because of the social environment may develop a different type of personality. Through music, the artist communicates his thoughts which will be influenced from the era he lives in. Concluding I believe that if all musicians had the same personality, then music would have been the same.

The Importance of understanding break even analysis

The Importance of understanding break even analysis First of all, production managers and management accountants need to have a clear understanding of break-even analysis. This analysis is used as a general guideline for business decision making and is important for a number of reasons, including the ability to forecast the future cost and revenues and determine whether the business is making profit or loss, and also be able to develop a pricing strategy. The break-even analysis is based on marginal costing. 2008. Business Basics. 3rd edn. Essex: BPP publishing. The total cost of manufacturing or producing products or services is divided into two main parts = fixed costs and variable costs. Fixed costs are not directly related to the volume of production and should remain broadly constant while variable costs vary directly with the production volume and change directly when the production volume changes. [WWW]. http://journal .au.edu/au-techno/2007/JUL07/auJourna/Tech_article.09.pdf (20 November 2008) The Break-even point (BEP) is the point at which income and expenditure are equal, and so neither a profit nor a loss is made. When calculating the break even point the total fixed costs are divided by the contribution per unit. The contribution is the difference between the sales revenues and the marginal cost of sales (variable costs). 2008. Business Basics. 3rd edn. Essex: BPP publishing. Fixed Costs (FC) = Fixed production overheads + Fixed administration overheads + fixed distribution overheads FC = 200000 + 180000 + 120000 =  £500000 Variable costs (VC) = Direct materials + Direct wages + Variable production overheads VC = 350000 +50000 + 200000 =  £600000 VC per 1 unit = 600000 =  £12 50000 SR =1000000 =  £20 50000 Contribution = Sales revenue (SR) Variable costs (VC) Contribution =  £20  £12 =  £8 Break even point (BEP) = Fixed costs (FC) Contribution BEP = 500000 = 62500 units 8 Margin of safety (%) = 50000 62500 100 = -25% 50000 The business is left with 25% of their sales. Taking the role of the management accountant evaluate each of the four alternatives. Pay Salespeople a 10 % commission, in anticipation of them selling more and the business reaching the break-even point. FC =  £500000 VC =  £12 +  £2 (10% commission of SR) =  £14 SR =  £20 Cont =  £20  £14 =  £6 BEP = 500000 = 83334 units 6 The original sales = 50000 units 83334 50000= 33334 units 33334 100 = 66.7% 50000 By choosing this option sales production and sales would need to increase by 33334 units. This means that the business needs to sell 66.7% of products more than were the original sales to meet the break-even point. The business should consider that if they increase the production the additional warehouse may be needed so the stepped fixed costs will occur. This idea may be considered as an unrealistic. Especially now, the economic crunch is affecting every kind of business and the companies need to be aware of what strategy are they going to use in order to increase their sales. The demand for products is decreasing because people are aware of this economic situation. They are loosing their confidence to buy products. They prefer to buy only necessities. And also the business needs to be aware of what the competitors will do and how they will undergo the present situation. The management accountant should investigate some unpredictable situations. How does the business know that by paying sales people a 10% commission, the business will reach break-even point? Is there a guarantee that the business will sell more? How can we predict that the demand for the products will increase? Reduce the selling price by 10% in anticipation of increasing sales by 30%. Expected sales = 50000 + 30% (15000) = 65000 units FC =  £500000 VC =  £12 SR =  £20 20/10 =  £18 Contribution =  £18  £12 =  £6 BEP = 500000 = 83334 units 6 Profit/Loss = (65000 x 6) 500000 =  £110000 loss Margin of safety (in units) = 65000 83334 = (18334) units Margin of safety (%) = (Expected sales breakeven sales) 100 Expected sales Margin of safety (%) = (65000 83334) 100 = 18334 100 65000 65000 Margin of safety (%) = -0.2821 100 = (28.21 %) By reducing the selling price by 10% the sale should increase by 30%. The break-even analysis presents that even if we sell 15000 units more the business would be left with 18334 units which represents 28.21 % of the production. Reducing the selling price by 10% may be a good pricing strategy that may increase customers demand for the product but even if we sell the expecting amount of units there will be a loss of  £110000, and not just that a new warehouse may be needed because of the increased sales. The stepped fixed costs occur. The management accountant needs to look for external factors which are affecting the demand for the product. Will this pricing strategy lead customers to buy more products? What the competitors will do? Will they decrease the selling price or will they invest money in improvements? Increase direct wage rates from  £4 to  £5 per hour as part of a productivity/pay deal. It is hoped that this will increase production and sales by 20%, but advertising costs would increase by  £50000. Expected sales = 50000 + (20%) = 60000 Direct wages =  £200000 :  £4 = 50000 hours New direct wages =  £5 ÃÆ'- 50000 =  £250000 FC = 250000 + 180000 +120000 =  £550000 VC = (350000 + 250000 + 50000) =  £13 50000 SR =  £20 Contribution =  £20  £13 =  £7 BEP = 550000 = 78572 units 7 Profit/Loss = (60000 x 7) 550000 =  £130000 loss Margin of safety (in units) = 60000 78572 = (18572) units Margin of safety (%) = (78572 60000) = 18572 x 100 = 31% 60000 60000 Increase of direct wages is a good motivation strategy which may increase the production by 20%. However this is not enough to cover the additional increase of wages and advertising costs. This scenario is clearly not a practicable option because the business will be left with 18572 units in the inventory and they will have a loss  £130000 loss. In the present economic situation is very risky to invest in the advertising because there is no guarantee that the demand for the product will increase as people are buying the cheapest products and services. In anticipation to produce and sell more a new warehouse may be needed. This means that the stepped fixed cost will occur. Can the company deal with  £130000 loss? What will the competitors do? Will they invest in the advertising or they will reduce the selling price? Increase sales by additional advertising of  £300000, with an increased selling price of 20%, setting a profit margin of 10%. FC = 500000 + 300000 =  £800000 VC =  £12 SR =  £20 + (20/10) ÃÆ'- 2 =  £24 Contribution =  £24  £12 =  £12 BEP = 800000 = 66667 units 12 Margin of safety (%) = (73334 66667) 100 = 9.1% 73334 Sales Volume to achieve a target profit = Fixed cost + target profit Contribution per unit Sales Volume to achieve a target profit = 800000 + 80008 = 73334 units 12 73334 units need to be produced and sold in order to produce a profit of 10%. This option can be considered as the most prosperous of all 4 options. However the business needs to deliberate that the increase of selling price by 20% is very unsecure. Particularly now the market is very unstable and the companies should try to sell everything they have. Producing more products is very risky. There is no guarantee that the sales would be made. Everything depends on customers. Many examples could be used from news. For instance, sales of cars fell by 23% and people are not going to the restaurant for their meal, they are saving their money and buying only necessaries. The business needs to be aware that the demand for the products is decreasing and not increasing. Why they want to produce more products? Also the business needs to be careful with the investment in adverting. The cost of advertising may be hard to cover. A positive thing is that if the company orders more material to produce more products, the suppliers may offer a discount. The business needs to take in consideration the competitors in the market and what they would do. Will they reduce the selling price or will they invest in advertising? The management accountant should investigate all the factors that may affect the demand for the product and watch the economic situation. What are the limitations of break-even analysis? Do these limitations invalidate it as a reliable business analytical tool? The limitations of break-even analysis The break-even analysis is based on forecasting and has a certain limitations which should be considered. It is not always possible to predict what will happen on the market. The linear relationship is based on the presumption that costs remain constant. However this is not the case in practical market situations. The business may get some discount from its suppliers. Also the business can often reduce its selling price in order to increase its sales volume and this is an efficient strategy known as a non-linear relationship. Scarlett, R. 2007. Management Accounting Performance evaluation. Butterworth-Heinemann The business need to bear in mind that if a production increases or decreases it may result in expansion or reduction of capacity. If the Henllys scenario is used, in each case there is an anticipation of increased sales and production and this means that a new warehouse may be needed. The stepped fixed costs occur and this situation result in multiple break even points. Wood, F. Sangster, A. Business Accounting 2, 2008, 11 edn. Essex: Pearson Education Limited. Pg. 656. Apart from the situation described above the product mix need to be applied as well. Many organisations have more then one product or service and this can have an impact on the apportionment of fixed costs which can become arbitrary. Scarlett, R. 2007. Management Accounting Performance evaluation. Butterworth-Heinemann The break-even analysis is internal and it is not used to consider the things like competition or market demand which means that the business should use other analysis to watch what is happening on the market and what strategies are used by competitors. These limitations explained above invalidate our break-even analysis as a reliable business analytical tool.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder In Veterans :: Post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD

For more than twenty years, Patricia Dietz, a wife of a Vietnam veteran, has suffered along with her husband the effects of post traumatic stress disorder. She has stated that, "It has changed everything; it has affected the rest of his and her life." Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is when a person is haunted by his memories so badly that it affects not only the rest of his life, but others close to him as well. Any time there is a traumatic event, physical danger, or threat or personal danger, this disorder is able to appear in ones' life (USA Today Magazine). "A key factor is the persons' response to this event, whether it happens to them or they are witnesses to feelings of intense fear, helplessness, or horror" (USA Today Magazine). "To be classified as PTSD the symptoms must last longer than one month, and usually appear within six months to a year after the event" (USA Today Magazine). Jim Dwyer describes Traumatic memories as "frozen in time, waiting to thaw" (Block, Norris). "PTSD has become a common condition among the armed forces as well as the police, and it has spread throughout society" (Fitzpatrick). "After Vietnam, PTSD appeared and was rapidly taken over from the veterans" (Fitzpatrick). There are a large number of symptoms of PTSD. The Veterans symptoms can be identical to those symptoms experienced when the actual trauma was occurring (Panzarino). "[symptoms include] May be prone to insomnia, irritability, or outbursts of anger, difficulty concentrating, and an exaggerated startled response when shocked" (USA Today Magazine). Michael Wheeler, a Vietnam veteran, is divorced because of PTSD, he was having thoughts of suicide, he couldn't handle life, he thought he was going crazy (Block, Norris). More symptoms are night terrors (dreams), flashbacks, and recurrent/intrusive thoughts of traumatic events (USA Today Magazine). "Many PTSD sufferers develop depression and anxiety or obsessive/compulsive disorder, in addition to alcohol or drug problems" (USA Today Magazine). "Of all the Wars in which Americans have fought Vietnam was without a doubt the one in which soldiers experienced the greatest psychological difficulties" (Welsh 58). In the Vietnam war the enemy didn't have a uniform, they could be hidden in with some of your allies this caused a lot of confusion and led to the saying "I wasn't really sure what was going on," and is probably the key reason why there are so many PTSD sufferers (Welsh 58). Post Traumatic Stress Disorder In Veterans :: Post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD For more than twenty years, Patricia Dietz, a wife of a Vietnam veteran, has suffered along with her husband the effects of post traumatic stress disorder. She has stated that, "It has changed everything; it has affected the rest of his and her life." Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is when a person is haunted by his memories so badly that it affects not only the rest of his life, but others close to him as well. Any time there is a traumatic event, physical danger, or threat or personal danger, this disorder is able to appear in ones' life (USA Today Magazine). "A key factor is the persons' response to this event, whether it happens to them or they are witnesses to feelings of intense fear, helplessness, or horror" (USA Today Magazine). "To be classified as PTSD the symptoms must last longer than one month, and usually appear within six months to a year after the event" (USA Today Magazine). Jim Dwyer describes Traumatic memories as "frozen in time, waiting to thaw" (Block, Norris). "PTSD has become a common condition among the armed forces as well as the police, and it has spread throughout society" (Fitzpatrick). "After Vietnam, PTSD appeared and was rapidly taken over from the veterans" (Fitzpatrick). There are a large number of symptoms of PTSD. The Veterans symptoms can be identical to those symptoms experienced when the actual trauma was occurring (Panzarino). "[symptoms include] May be prone to insomnia, irritability, or outbursts of anger, difficulty concentrating, and an exaggerated startled response when shocked" (USA Today Magazine). Michael Wheeler, a Vietnam veteran, is divorced because of PTSD, he was having thoughts of suicide, he couldn't handle life, he thought he was going crazy (Block, Norris). More symptoms are night terrors (dreams), flashbacks, and recurrent/intrusive thoughts of traumatic events (USA Today Magazine). "Many PTSD sufferers develop depression and anxiety or obsessive/compulsive disorder, in addition to alcohol or drug problems" (USA Today Magazine). "Of all the Wars in which Americans have fought Vietnam was without a doubt the one in which soldiers experienced the greatest psychological difficulties" (Welsh 58). In the Vietnam war the enemy didn't have a uniform, they could be hidden in with some of your allies this caused a lot of confusion and led to the saying "I wasn't really sure what was going on," and is probably the key reason why there are so many PTSD sufferers (Welsh 58).

Tobacco: The Cost-effectiveness of Current Smoke-free Policies Essay

1. Introduction Tobacco use constitutes a global epidemic that results in 5 million deaths each year (World Health Organization, 2008). If current trends in tobacco use continue, the number of tobacco-related deaths is expected to rise to 8 million deaths annually by 2030 – with 80 percent of these deaths taking place in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) (Mathers & Loncar, 2006). Currently, about 10 percent of the world’s smokers live in India (World Health Organization, 2008). The 2009-2010 Global Adult Tobacco Survey, a nationally representative household survey, found that 34.6% of adults over the age of 15 in India currently use tobacco (International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), 2010). The prevalence of tobacco smoking in Gujarat, India, including those using smokeless as well as smoked tobacco is estimated to be 19.8% among males and 1.5% among females(International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), 2010). Most smokers in India consume bidis, small cigarettes containing, on average, 25 percent less tobacco than the average cigarette (Jha et al., 2008). Despite the smaller amount of tobacco in bidis, they can produce more nicotine, carbon monoxide, and tar than the average manufactured cigarette because of the way smokers puff on them (Mackay J et al., 2006). One recent nationally representative case-control study found t hat about 70% of smoking-related deaths in India take place during productive years of life between 30-69 years of age (Jha et al., 2008). In addition, the study projected that smoking will kill one million people each year starting in 2010 (Jha et al., 2008). Since 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) offers a ... ... or sub-national setting. In the past several years, low and middle-income countries have seen an increased number of smoke-free policies (World Health Organization, 2009). However, some of these policies do not meet the FCTC’s recommendations or are poorly enforced at the sub-national level (World Health Organization, 2009). Therefore, it is important to examine the cost-effectiveness of current smoke-free policies to provide decision makers with the evidence needed to strengthen existing policies to meet FCTC requirements. Additionally, given the exceptions in India’s current smoke-free legislation and the high levels of exposure to secondhand smoke found in recent data, there is a particular need for transparent cost-effectiveness analysis of smoke-free legislation in India(International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), 2010; Trostle et al., 1999).

Aib Problem Solution

Aib Homework Wk3 Problem 1 The following data were obtained from a project to create a new portable electronic. Activity Duration Predecessors A 5 Days — B 6 Days — C 8 Days — D 4 Days A, B E 3 Days C F 5 Days D G 5 Days E, F H 9 Days D I 12 Days G Step 1: Construct a network diagram for the project. Step 2: Answer the following questions: (15 points total) a) What is the Scheduled Completion of the Project? (2 points) 32 -> CORRECT b) What is the Critical Path of the Project? (3 points) B,D,F,G,I -> CORRECT 2,4,6,7,9 c) What is the ES for Activity D? (2 points) 6 -> Correct ) What is the LS for Activity G? (2 points) 15 e) What is the EF for Activity B? (2 points) 6 -> Correct f) What is the LF for Activity H? (2 points) 32 -> Correct g) What is the float for Activity I? (2 points) 0 Problem 2 The following data were obtained from a project to build a pressure vessel: Activity Duration Predecessors A 6 weeks — B 6 weeks — C 5 weeks B D 4 weeks A, C E 5 weeks B F 7 weeks D, E, G G 4 weeks B H 8 weeks F I 5 weeks G J 3 week I Step 1: Construct a network diagram for the project. Step 2: Answer the following questions: (15 points total) ) Calculate the scheduled completion time. (3 points) 30 b) Identify the critical path (4 points) B,C,D,F,H c) What is the slack time (float) for activity A? (2 points) 5 d) What is the slack time (float) for activity D? (2 points) 0 e) What is the slack time (float) for activity E? (2 points)4 f) What is the slack time (float) for activity G? (2 points) 5 Problem 3 The following data were obtained from a project to design a new software package: Activity Duration Predecessors A 5 Days — B 8 Days — C 6 Days A D 4 Days C, B E 5 Days A F 4 Days D, E, G G 4 Days B, C H 3 Day G Step 1: Construct a network diagram for the project. Step 2: Answer the following questions: (15 points total) e) Calculate the scheduled completion time. (3 points) 19 f) Identify the critical path(s) (4 points) A,C,D,G,F g) What is the slack time (float) for activity B? (2 points) 3 h) What is the slack time (float) for activity D? (2 points) 0 e) What is the slack time (float) for activity E? (2 points) 5 f) What is the slack time (float) for activity G? (2 points) 0 Problem 4 The following data were obtained from an in-house MIS project: Activity Duration Predecessors A 5 Days — B 8 Days — C 5 Days A D 4 Days B E 5 Days B F 3 Day C, D G 7 Days C, D H 6 Days E, F, G I 9 Days E, F Step 1: Construct a network diagram for the project. Step 2: Answer the following questions: (15 points total) a) Calculate the scheduled completion time. (3 points) 25 b) Identify the critical path (4 points) B,D,G,H c) What is the slack time (float) for activity A? (2 points) 2 d) What is the slack time (float) for activity D? (2 points) 0 e) What is the slack time (float) for activity E? (2 points) 3 f) What is the slack time (float) for activity F? (2 points) 1

Gas Chromatography

GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY EXPERIMENT The purpose of this experiment is for the student: 1)to learn the general theoretical aspects of gas chromatography as a separation method, 2)to learn how to operate gas chromatographs specific to COD, 3)to become familiar with using the gas chromatograph (GC) to qualitatively identify components of mixtures, 4)to be introduced to and to interpret the quantitative data available via gas chromatography, 5)to gain insight into how the GC technique is used in the chemical industry both as a qualitative and quantitative tool.As a means of accomplishing these objectives, we will attempt to identify the three major organic components of two different kinds of nail polish remover. PRELAB ASSIGNMENT Read Technique 22 in Pavia, 4th ed. Be sure that you understand the components of a gas chromatograph and the factors affecting separation. Pay particular attention to the definitions of retention time and resolution and how the GC can be used for qualitative analysi s.  ·Fill out a gold sheet for all compounds present in the purple nail polish remover as listed below. Write a procedural flow chart for the experiment. EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE Each student will be required to make at least one injection into the GC. Each student will also be a member of a group and will share information and chromatograms with other group members and between groups. All GC injections will be one micro-liter â€Å"sandwiched injections†. The procedure for preparing the syringe is described below.  ·Place your sample in a small test-tube.  ·Rinse the syringe three times with your sample.  ·Draw approximately 1 micro-liter of air into the syringe. Draw 2 or 3 micro-liters of your sample into the syringe with the air.  ·Turn the syringe so that the tip of the needle is pointing up and expel liquid from the syringe until only 1 micro-liter of liquid remains in the syringe.  ·Pull the plunger back and draw in approximately 1 micro-liter of air. You now have a 1 micro-liter sample â€Å"sandwiched† between two air bubbles. Your group will be assigned either regular (purple) Revlon nail polish remover or acetone-free (blue) Revlon nail polish remover. The contents are listed below.Your group must gather enough information to be able to identify the three major peaks in the gas chromatogram for your assigned nail polish remover. Acetone, ethyl acetate, and isopropyl alcohol in addition to the two nail polish removers will be available as samples for injection. You may use these chemicals to make mixtures that you will inject into the GC. You may not inject any of these neat liquids (pure chemical samples) because the column may become overloaded and the peaks will show a lot of trailing.When analyzing the data and planning your mixtures, keep in mind that our GC's have flame ionization detectors that do not detect non-flammable substances such as water. Someone in the group will need to inject the assigned nail polish remover into a GC and wait for the instrument to record the chromatogram. While the GC is cooling down, label the chromatogram with your name, the name of your sample, and the number of the GC which was used. Have the instructor initial the original chromatogram.When the â€Å"ready† indicator light turns green on the GC, another member of the group should make an injection into the same GC in order to have the same experimental conditions for comparisons of results. The chemical make up of this second and subsequent injections should be determined after consultation within the group. You must get the approval of the instructor before making any mixtures for injection into the GC. Each person must submit at least one original initialed chromatogram attached to the cover sheet.All other chromatograms will be obtained from your partners and by exchanging data within a group. The second type of nail polish will be analyzed using class data that will be provided by your instructor. The labels on the two nail polish removers list the contents of each in the following order: PURPLE Nail Polish|BLUE Nail Polish| acetone|ethyl acetate| water|isopropyl alcohol| ethyl acetate|water| isopropyl alcohol|jojoba oil| benzophenone-1|butyl alcohol| dyes|butyl acetate| |toluene| |dyes|

Normative Ethical Theories

NORMATIVE ETHICAL THEORIES Objective †¢ Discuss the normative ethical theories L2: Normative Ethical Theories Beliefs about how people should behave can be classified into at least 2 major categories: Teleological theories (Consequentialism) Right actions are those that produce the most or optimize the consequences of one’s choices. Behaviour is ‘ethical’ if it results in desirable behaviour 1. 2. 3. 4. Ethical egoism Ethical elitism Ethical parochialism Ethical universalism Deontological theories (Duty and Rights) Duties are set down as rules which must be followed. Rights are behaviours that a person expects of others.Actions are intrinsically right or wrong regardless of the consequences which they produce. 1. Theological ethics 2. Rationalism 3. Social contract theory Ethical Egoism †¢ Based on the belief that people should act in a way that maximises the ‘good’ of the person making the decision. – For e. g. ethical egoists would not stop to help the victim of a road accident if that would make them late for a dinner reservation. They are not concerned with rules or accepted behaviour but behave in a way which is in their own interest. †¢ Hedonism: Ethical behaviour for hedonist would be that which gratifies a desire for pleasure and minimises pain.Ethical Egoism †¢ Adam Smith: – Advocated the pursuit of maximum self-interest. – Believed that such a policy pursued by individuals would lead to the maximisation of society’s interest. – An invisible hand restrained the individual from behaviour that would damage the interests of society. †¢ Milton’s Friedman’s Restricted Egoism: – â€Å"There is one and only one social responsibility of business – to use its resources and engage in activities designed to increase its profits so long as it stays within the rules of the game, which is to say, engages in open nd free competition without decept ion or fraud†. – Suggests that the behaviour of individuals seeking to maximise their selfinterest should be constrained by the law and the conventions of competition and fair play. – Would not allow breaking the law or the violation of accepted codes of behaviour in pursuing self-interest. Ethical elitism †¢ Suggests that society is stratified and that ethical behaviour should maximise the interests of only the top stratum or the elite. Examples: – (a) Sending thousands of soldiers to their deaths in a battle would be ethical behaviour if it improved the general’s reputation, – (b) The dismissal of a ‘mere’ accounts clerk to protect the reputation of the accountant would be regarded as ethical behaviour by a society that subscribed ethical elitism. Ethical parochialism †¢ Assumes that ethical behaviour should protect the interest of the individual’s ‘in-group’. – The ‘in-group’ c ould be the individual’s family, friends, professional associates, religion, gender, etc. Ethical parochialism would regard lying to protect a family member as ethical behaviour. Similarly preferring as employees former students from the employer’s old school. Ethical universalism (John Stuart Mill’s utilitarianism) †¢ Suggests that ethical behaviour should be concerned with the good of all people and that individuals are all of equal value. †¢ Any behaviour which pursues the interests of an individual at the expense of others would be unethical. †¢ Mill modified Bentham’s theory. Bentham argued that when individuals seek to maximise their utility, the community’s utility is also maximised.Mill’s greatest happiness principle meant that an individual should not act to maximise personal utility but the utility of the community as a whole. Ethical universalism (John Stuart Mill’s utilitarianism) †¢ Moral principle of utilitarianism: Persons ought to act in a way that promotes the maximum net expectable utility, that is, the greatest net benefits or the lowest net costs, for the broadest community affection by their actions. †¢ An extreme example: This theory would accept an individual being killed to save the lives of many others.Although the individual who was killed suffered a considerable loss of utility, the increase in the utility of those who survived more than compensated for that loss. †¢ Mill’s utilitarianism is regarded as the most acceptable of the teleological theories – replaces blatant self-interest. Theological ethics †¢ Relies on religion, where rules must be followed as set down, as established by God. – It is God’s command that we should behave in certain ways. Conforming to God’s rules is ethical. – It provides a powerful set of duties for people. Strictest interpretation: requires compliance with God’s rules rega rdless of the circumstances or consequences. – However, faith or beliefs are not universal, with many different religions and varying degrees of faith with each religion and interpretation. Rationalism Immanuel Kant †¢ Sought a simple maxim based on a reason or rationality that would provide a rule for a general duty which would override all others. He suggested the categorical imperative as a universally valid ethical law, i. e. †¢ Act as if the principle from which you act were to become through your will a universal law of natureImmanuel Kant †¢ First Maxim Note: Categorical imperative – it is absolute and does not allow for any exceptions Maxim – is an implied general principle underlying a particular action. †¢ The categorical imperative is a philosophical formulation of the Christian Golden Rule: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. ’ Thus to decide whether a contemplated action is ethical, the categorical im perative must be applied to that action. For e. g. a person who is about to break a promise must ask, ‘Would I desire a law which says that everybody may break promises if they so choose? If the answer is ‘No’, then the proposed action is unethical. †¢ Act so that you treat humanity whether in your own person or in that of another, always as an end and never as a means only Immanuel Kant Second Maxim †¢ People should not be ‘used’ to achieve an end no matter how worthy that end may appear to be. The end does not justify the means. †¢ Kant proposed that applying these maxims to every proposed behaviour would lead to ethical behaviour. †¢ Kant strongly implies that perfect duties are always obliged to be followed such as telling the truth or keeping a promise,William Ross’ Prima Facie Obligation †¢ Ross, in contrast to Kant, refused to accept these duties as absolute or prevailing without exception. †¢ Argues that th ey are prima facie duties which means that they are moral imperatives that should apply most of the time under normal circumstances. †¢ A prima facie obligation is a conditional one that can be superceded by a more important, higher obligation, usually under very exceptional circumstances. William Ross’ Prima Facie Obligation Ross’ Seven Basic Moral Duties on Moral Agents †¢ One ought to keep promises and tell the truth (fidelity). One ought to right the wrongs that one has inflicted on others (reparation). †¢ One ought to distribute goods justly (justice). †¢ One ought to improve the lot of others with respect to virtue, intelligence, and happiness (beneficence). †¢ One ought to improve the lot of others with respect to virtue and intelligence (self-improvement). †¢ One ought to exhibit gratitude when appropriate (gratitude). †¢ One ought to avoid injury to others (non-injury). Social contract theory †¢ Assumes that there is a s ocial contract between the individual and the state which requires both to perform certain duties and gives to both certain rights. A ‘social’ contract is an unwritten agreement based on custom and accepted without dissent. †¢ A failure to perform the duties implied by the social contract would be unethical behaviour. It suggests fairness and equality, and relies on cooperation. – For e. g. by observing the road rules, one surrenders certain personal liberties in the hope of receiving safe road-driving conditions in return. – Another e. g. : If society wishes to receive well organised and skilful professional services, it must be prepared to relinquish a certain degree of autonomy and grant professionals special privileges of autonomy and power in return.