The Influence Of Religion On Humankind Can Be Traced Back To The First

The influence of religion on humankind can be traced back to the first records of history. Religion has served as a pillar of strength to some and binding chains to others. There are vast amounts of information and anthropological studies revealing the interaction of religion and humankind. However, for the purposes of this paper, the time periods of study will be broken up into three sections. Each section will give a general description of how religion affected the institution of the state and its Sovereignty in a Euro-centric perspective. The first period is the early period, which will encompass from Christianity and the Roman Empire to the Medieval times (approx. 311 to 1100 A.D.). The second period will include the Renaissance, the Reformation to the Treaty of Westphalia (1101 to 1648 A.D.). The third and increment of history will range from 1649 to 1945 A.D. The date 311 A.D. marks the issuing of the "Edict of Toleration" for Christians. This date is important because it symbolizes "national" acceptance of Christianity, and planted its roots as a political institution. Later the Roman Empire on the verge of internal collapse acknowledged the importance of Christianity and used it to hold together the remnants of it former self. This adoption of Christianity took form and eventually became the Catholic church. The church became intermingled with politics and became a strong entity. The policies delivered from the church had more authority than the local rulers and magistrates of the developing feudal system. For example, St. Augustine wrote about war and what justified its enactment against fellow men. This policy was followed and adhered to for hundreds of years after St. Augustine wrote it. Another example, is the use of the Bible as a guideline for establishing governing systems. Scripture portrayed God as choosing the king of the people. The pope, being God's "representative" was then given the authority to crown the king. This crowning process gave the pope large influence in the political arena. This ritual continued for a number of centuries. The Crusades, which occurred around 1100 A.D., played a crucial role in challenging the church's authority. The pope identifying the spread of Islam as evil requested all of Europe embark on a "Crusade" to defeat the infidels. As the battles were fought, great treasures were found in the form of books and knowledge. These books were crude translations of old Greek texts, containing information which would eventually produce the waning of Church authority in the future. The Renaissance marked the beginning of intellectual re-birth. Writers such as Dante, Machiavelli, Guiarccidini, Vitoria, etc., all attempting to reform and some even contest church dominance. Dante in his imaginative work "Inferno" writes of hell which he envision is the pope's final destination. Machiavelli takes a more direct role classifying the actions of a prince to be above morality and ultimately above the Church. He continues the affront by classifying a human character of "virtu" as being completely centered around man (humanism). The Raison D' Tat is supreme especially in terms of the church belligerence. In the middle of the Renaissance, the Church was dealt a deadly blow from which it would never recover. This assault came via Martin Luther. His work, "95 Thesis", marked the beginning of the Reformation. This movement split the church into Catholic and Protestant sects. It marked the beginning of a bloody period which virtually split Europe in half. Examples of the conflict raged between Protestants and Catholics from the great slaughter of Protestants in Paris 1572 A.D. (7000 dead) to the Thirty Years War. With the Church in disarray, freedom was given to the "state" to begin to develop. During this period of Renaissance the political identity was going through a tremendous transformation. This transformation took form in what is called Absolutism. "Princes" began to tolerate less and less manipulation from the church. The political entity in the form of monarchy began to wean itself from the Church for its legitimacy and looked toward its own power. Other writers began to rise and discuss issues of sovereignty and the state. Thomas Hobbes discusses the state and refers to it as "Leviathan" which is the concurring title of his work. Believing man to be evil, Hobbes fashions his description of

Common Job Interview Questions for ESL Learners

Common Job Interview Questions for ESL Learners The first impression you make on the interviewer can decide the rest of the interview. It is important that you introduce yourself, shake hands, and be friendly and polite. The first question is often a breaking the ice (establish a rapport) type of question. Dont be surprised if the interviewer asks you something like: How are you today?Did you have any trouble finding us?Isnt this great weather were having? This type of question is common because the interviewer wants to put you at ease (help you relax). The best way to respond is in a short, friendly manner without going into too much detail. Here are some examples correct responses: Common Interview Questions -  First Impressions Interviewer: How are you today?You: Im fine, thank you. And you? OR Interviewer: Did you have any trouble finding us?You: No, the office isnt too difficult to find. OR Interviewer: Isnt this great weather were having?You: Yes, its wonderful. I love this time of year. OR Interviewer: Did you have any trouble finding us?You: No, the office isnt too difficult to find. Here are some examples of incorrect responses: Interviewer:  How are you today?You:  So, so. Im rather nervous actually. OR Interviewer: Did you have any trouble finding us?You: As a matter of fact, it was very difficult. I missed the exit and had to return via the highway. I was afraid I was going to be late for the interview. OR Interviewer: Isnt this great weather were having?​You: Yes, its wonderful. I can remember this time last year. Wasnt it awful! I thought it would never stop raining! OR Interviewer: Did you have any trouble finding us?You: No, the office isnt too difficult to find. Getting Down to Business Once the pleasant beginnings have finished, its time to begin the real interview. Here are a number of the most  common questions  that are asked during the interview. There are two examples of excellent replies given for each question. Following the examples, you will find a comment describing the type of question and important things to remember when answering that type of question. Interviewer:  Tell me about yourself.Candidate:  I was born and raised in Milan, Italy. I attended the University of Milan and received my masters degree in Economics. I have worked for 12 years as a financial consultant in Milan for various companies including Rossi Consultants, Quasar Insurance and  Sardi  and Sons. I enjoy playing tennis in my free time and learning languages. Candidate:  Ive just graduated from the University of Singapore with a degree in Computers. During the summers, I worked as a systems administrator for a small company to help pay for my education. Comment:  This question is meant as an introduction. Do not focus too specifically on any one area. The above question will often be used to help the interviewer choose what h/she would like to ask next. While it is important to give an overall impression of who you are, make sure to concentrate on work-related experience. Work related experience should  always  be the central focus of any interview (work experience is more important than education in most  English-speaking  countries). Interviewer:  What type of position are you looking for?Candidate:  Im interested in an entry-level (beginning) position.Candidate:  Im looking for a position in which I can utilize my experience.Candidate:  I would like any position for which I qualify. Comment:  You  should be willing to take an  entry-level  position in an English speaking company as most of these companies expect non-nationals to begin with such a position. In the United States, most companies provide many opportunities for growth, so dont be afraid to start from the beginning! Interviewer:  Are you interested in a full-time or part-time position?Candidate:  I am more interested in a full-time position. However, I would also consider a part-time position. Comment:  Make sure to leave open as many possibilities as possible. Say you are willing to take any job, once the job has been offered you can always refuse if the job does not appeal (not interest) to you. Interviewer:  Can you tell me about your responsibilities at your last job?Candidate:  I advised customers on financial matters. After I consulted the customer, I completed a customer inquiry form and  cataloged  the information in our database. I then collaborated with colleagues to prepare the best possible package for the client. The clients were then presented with a summarized report on their financial activities that I formulated on a quarterly basis. Comment:  Notice the amount of detail necessary when you are talking about your experience. One of the most  common mistakes  made by foreigners when discussing their former employment is to speak too generally. The employer wants to know exactly what you did and how you did it; the more detail you can give the more the interviewer knows that you understand the type of work. Remember to vary your vocabulary when talking about your responsibilities. Also, do not begin every sentence with I. Use the  passive voice, or an introductory clause to help you add variety to your presentation Interviewer:  What is your greatest strength?Candidate:  I work well under pressure. When there is a deadline (a time by which the work must be finished), I can focus on the task at hand (current project) and structure my work schedule well. I remember one week when I had to get 6 new customer reports out by Friday at 5. I finished all the reports ahead of time without having to work overtime. Candidate:  I am an excellent communicator. People trust me and come to me for advice. One afternoon, my colleague was involved with a troublesome (difficult) customer who felt he was not being served well. I made the customer a cup of coffee and invited both my colleague and the client to my desk where we solved the problem together. Candidate:  I am a trouble shooter. When there was a problem at my last job, the manager would always ask me to solve it. Last summer, the LAN server at work crashed. The manager was desperate and called me in (requested my help) to get the LAN back online. After taking a look at the daily backup, I detected the problem and the LAN  was  up and running (working) within the hour. Comment:  This is not the time to be modest! Be confident and  always  give examples. Examples show that you are not only repeating words you have  learned,  but  actually  do possess that strength. Interviewer:  What is your greatest weakness?Candidate:  I am overzealous (work too hard) and become nervous when my co-workers are not pulling their weight (doing their job). However, I am aware of this problem, and before I say anything to anyone, I ask myself why the colleague is having difficulties. Candidate:  I tend to spend too much time making sure the customer is satisfied. However, I began setting time-limits for myself If I noticed this happening. Comment:  This is a difficult question. You need to mention a weakness that is actually a strength. Make sure that you always mention how you try to improve the weakness. Interviewer:  Why  do you want to work for Smith and Sons?Candidate:  After following your  firms  progress for the last 3 years, I am convinced that Smith and Sons are becoming one of the market leaders and I would like to be part of the team. Candidate:  I am impressed by the quality of your products. I am sure that I would be a convincing salesman because I truly believe that the Atomizer is the best product on the market today. Comment:  Prepare yourself for this question by becoming informed about the company. The more detail you can give, the better you show the interviewer that you understand the company. Interviewer:  When can you begin?Candidate:  Immediately.Candidate:  As soon as you would like me to begin. Comment:  Show your willingness to work! The above questions represent some of the most basic questions asked  on any job interview  in English. Probably the most important aspect of interviewing in English is giving detail. As a speaker of English  as a second language, you might be shy about saying complicated things. However, this is absolutely necessary as the employer is looking for an employee who knows his or her job. If you provide detail, the interviewer will know that you feel comfortable in that job. Dont worry  about making mistakes  in English. It is much better to make simple grammar mistakes and provide detailed information about your experience than to say grammatically perfect sentences without any real content.

The Pubic Symphysis in Forensic Osteology Essay

The Pubic Symphysis in Forensic Osteology - Essay Example The pubic symphysis worn at their surfaces as age advances. It is possible to estimate the age of a dead person by examining the wear and tear at the surfaces of pubic symphysis. "When the changes are made according to the symphyseal formula technique, it is found that age estimates based on this single event are more dependable than similar age estimates from other bones. This technique has made age estimation from unknown skeletal remains more realistic, more accurate and more dependable." (Parikh, C. k., 1990) "The Pubic symphysis, a symphysis is a false joint, is the junction of the two pubic bones lying roughly 4-5 inches below the navel. This junction is bridged by cartilage that acts as a cushion between the two bones." (Houck, M. M. & Siegel, J. A., 2006) The pubic symphysis is the central cartilaginous joint which unites the superior rami of the left and right pubic bones. The location of pubic symphysis is anterior to the urinary bladder and superior to the external genitalia: which above the vulva for females and above the penis for males. The suspensory ligament of the penis of males is attached to the pubic symphysis, whereas clitoris in females is in close connection. Pubic symphysis is derived from the Greek word "symphysis" which means growing together. It belongs to the category of non-synovial amphiarthrodial joint. Pubic symphysis has its anterior width 3-5 mm greater than its intrapelvic posterior width. Pubic symphysis is connected by fibro cartilage and its centre is avascular. The ends of both pubic bones are covered by a thin layer of hyaline cartilage. The fibro cartilaginous disk is reinforced mainly by many ligaments of which superior and inferior ligaments are important. The strong and thicker superior ligament is reinforced by the tendons of rectus abdominis, obliques externus, gracilis and thigh adductors muscle. The inferior ligament of pubic arch is known as the arcuate pubic ligament. Pubic symphysis is 9-10 mm width during birth, with thick cartilaginous end plates. During adulthood the end plates decreases in width to thinner layer. Pubic disc is thicker in females which permits more movement of the pelvic bones, and thus provides a greater diameter of pelvic cavity during delivery. "The pubic symphysis is less deep, and the pubic arch is wider and more rounded than in the male, where it is an angle rather than an arch." (Gray, H. 1918) (BBC News, 2001) During pregnancy, hormones like relaxin remodels the hyaline cartilage thereby allowing the pelvic bones to be more flexible for delivery. The normal non-pregnant gap of the symphysis pubis is 4-5 mm. but in pregnancy, the width increases at least by 2-3 mm, and thus, there is a total width of up to 9mm for pregnant women. During delivery, the pubic symphysis separates to some degree and this separation can leads to diastases of the syphysis pubis. The diastases could be the result of a rapid birth or a forceps delivery or may be prenatal. A diastases of the pubic symphysis is a symptom of pelvic girdle pain. Historically, symphysiotomy used to be done when labour failed to progress due to large size of the head of the fetes and consequently the fetes' skull was crushed. Fractures of pelvis are important in forensic pathology in two aspects - First, a great amount of force is required to disrupt the pelvic ring. Second,

The Factors that Affect Online Buying Decisions Essay

The Factors that Affect Online Buying Decisions - Essay Example It is generally expected that with the Internet, national and geographical boundaries should become irrelevant when engaging in business exchanges; consequently, global expansion on the Internet could promise greater customer reach and profits. However, although the adoption rate of Internet shopping is relatively high in the West, it is still generally unpopular in the East (Lee et al., 2004, 545). The above assumptions which present the current conditions regarding the use and the evaluation of an Internet site from a consumers’ perspective, although completed regarding the issues targeted they can, however, be been criticised as limited to the geographical aspect of the Internet usage. The current paper examines the online activity from the aspect of the transactions made, mostly the online shopping. Under these terms, the factors that affect the relevant decision are being examined in order to provide a specific and complete view on the issue. The use of research tools, su ch as questionnaires, has been evaluated as necessary in order to gather empirical information regarding the specific subject. Moreover, the data revealed are being analyzed and compared between them but also with the views of the literature, so that the formulation of a integrate result to be achieved at the highest possible level. According to a British Computer Society research (Kavanagh, 2005), online shoppers are starting to desert the High Street; however, the same survey also shows that many people are being excluded from electronic services. According to the above survey (which was conducted by interviewing a representative sample of 2,113 people aged over 15) about 35% of the people surveyed shop online — and nearly one-fifth of these now choose to shop online rather than visit the High Street; in addition, although 46% still prefer the High Street, 36% have no preference, again suggesting wide acceptance of online shopping.  

The case of Chanel and WestWood Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The case of Chanel and WestWood - Essay Example The essay "The case of Chanel and WestWood" concerns the Chanel's and WestWood's case. Exclusivity and fashionability are the two concepts which may be directly related in the context of fashion designing. The exclusivity strategy is directly aimed at creating branding opportunities for the business. Branding concept is often reliant on the competitive advantages that a company or a business holds. These branding traits are created rather than adopted from a particular industry. The brand distinction is developed using the strategies which give a unique, new or fashionable product to the consumers in the fashion designing industry. People are often attracted towards the clothing and other accessories which are produced for a limited number of people with a unique idea and suitability with the current trends. These unique products are identified normally with the fashion designers’ name. Their marketing is placed in a way that gives an impression of uniqueness and exceptionalit y of the product design and quality. Hence, exceptionality of a product design should also be accompanied by fashionability of the product in order to attract consumers. An exceptionally expensive item with good quality does not attract customers until it is according to the current fashion and trends in the society. Some distinct businesses which are recognized by their names in attaining the exclusivity in their relative industry include Harvery Nichols in the retail industry, Ferrarri in the automobile industry., Rolex in the watch making industry and so on. Coco Chanel and Vivien Westwood are the two leading names in the fashion designing industry which make use of the exclusivity concept keeping fashionability as their core value and meeting consumer expectations as their aim. The goodwill and trademarks of fashion designers play a vital role in the success of their products. They launch new variety and people go for it as their distinct position in the market assures reliabili ty of their materials and designs. Fashion designing industry is highly demanding and requires continuous changes in designs. Creativity is the main factor in the success of fashion designing career. The well known fashion designers use a number of marketing strategies to increase their sales as well as to maintain their goodwill. Their reputation is a factor which assures their success. Their unique ideas accompanied by creativity of using them in their products make the products distinct from others (Dickerson 2004, p. 296). Their marketing techniques involve ideas which promote individuality of their designs and uniqueness of their products. The use of Chanel’s logo in the products it offers motivate the consumers to buy it. Consumers of fashion designing industry are highly status and brand conscious. Their trademarks

The First Great Debate Challenges To Realism Politics Essay

The First Great Debate Challenges To Realism Politics Essay The subject matter of International Relations as a branch of political science can be defined in different ways. As in most social science disciplines there is no scientific consensus on the field and thus the definition we adopt would be conventional and reflect a particular account of the world.  [1]  Since there is no common definition of international relations, there exist multiple theories explaining the principles of interplay of what each of them consider being main actors would it be states, non-state institutions or classes. C. Brown and K. Ainley argue that there are no right or wrong theories as all have political implications, therefore, the pluralism of contesting theories each presenting different perspective should be preserved.  [2]   The aim of this essay is to examine the work by Ole R. Holsti  [3]  Theories of International Relations and critically address the arguments he presents. In the course of this essay I will briefly summarize authors description of state of affairs in international relations theories complementing it with personal interpretation. Holsti assumes the main aim of his essay is to contribute to exchange of ideas between political scientists and diplomatic historians.  [4]  The text addresses diplomatic historians to introduce them theoretical approaches used by political scientists. Author describes the first great debate on theories of international relations namely challenges presented by different groups of models to classical and modern realism.  [5]  He classifies theories that challenge realist concepts on system level into three groups: Global Society/Complex-Interdependence/Liberal-Institutionalism, Marxist/World System/Dependency and constructivism, neglecting differences inside these groups to emphasize main differences between theoretical perspectives.  [6]  He also examines several decision-making models that go beyond structural analysis of international relations focusing on political processes inside the units of the system.  [7]   The Great Debate In this chapter I am going to summarize five major arguments of realist theories from classical to neo-realism described by Holsti and their critics by other international relations theories on systemic and decision-making levels. Although it might seem very simplistic, if one could generalize the five points of classical realist theory described by Holsti  [8]  into one sentence, the result might be the following: Sovereign states as main units of the anarchical international system act as unitary rational actors to achieve security through involvement into war and peace based on relative capabilities. In the first place, Holsti states that classical realists consider as central questions the causes of war and the conditions of peace  [9]  , arising from the structural anarchy of the international system, meaning that there is no higher authority above states to settle conflicts. This kind of structural organization of the international system gives rise to the security dilemma that is attempts to reach absolute security by one state is in direct proportion to insecurity of all other parts of the system.  [10]   Each of the five points made by classical realists were further developed and complemented by modern realist or neo-realists, namely K. Waltz and later R. Gilpin, but equally they all seem to hold numerous controversies. At first glance, it appears to be that the assumption of rationality of states is based on, I would argue irrational by itself pessimistic concept of human nature would it be secular or religious.  [11]  Moreover, the whole approach to explanation of international relations in terms of military struggle for security (can easily be substituted by superiority) against all other states may lead to a conclusion that there is constantly a world war all against all. Fortunately however this is not the case. Furthermore, Holsti points that Robert Gilpin developed the argument that international system is in a state of equilibrium if no state believes that it is profitable to attempt to change it.  [12]  Therefore, it appears to be that the question of engagement in a war is defined solely by mathematic correlation between costs and benefits. Would this neo-realist assumption be true, the most powerful states would have been involved in constant expansion until one of them achieves an empire comprising the entire world. The aforementioned controversies of the realist theories show us that there should be more complex motivation in the relations between actors in international relations. Apart from the involvement in war or peace, states are likely to cooperate on a number of issues like trade, science, education, migration, environmental challenges etc. Even the most powerful states are currently unable to cope with some issues that are cross-border like terrorism or spread of epidemic diseases.  [13]  The increasing interdependence of states and growing influence of non-state actors like NGOs, transnational corporations and international organizations in contrast to decline of the nation-state are the main arguments of the group of theories labeled by Holsti as Global Society/Complex-Interdependence/Liberal Institutionalism. State remains the point of departure for these theories, but the views on its future role vary from acknowledgment that state is a major source of change in the internation al system to its irreversible decline.  [14]   Despite encompassing broader range of motivations, except war and peace that determine international relations, the latter group of theories presents just another perspective with its limitations and inability to explain certain tendencies currently taking place in the world. Together with integration processes and interdependence, we can observe rise of nationalism and disintegration in different parts of the world, especially in the Central and Eastern Europe. Marxism/World Systems/Dependency together with post-modernist theories are rare cases where Holsti expresses his own standpoint apart from impartial description of previous groups of theories, using satirical remarks.  [15]  Holsti describes the arguments of this group of theories very shortly. Marxism/World Systems/Dependency theories consider as determining factor of international relations the mode of production and inequality inside the world capitalist system. According to M/WS/D models, the role of state is secondary in relation to classes. On condition that one accepts Marxist paradigm and his interpretation of capitalism, the explanation of international relations based on exploitation within one world capitalist economy seem convincing. The system cannot be anarchical, if one of the parties depends on other. However, at least one problem appears in this regard related to Marxist interpretation of actors in the international relations classes. The criteria for defining classes are more or less clear the relation to the means of production, place in the system of production and distribution. The problem is that the exploited across the world do not necessarily define themselves as proletariat and do not realize the need for workers solidarity. Thus, they cannot act as an independent actor in international relations. Constructivism challenges all the systemic theories of international relations by demonstrating that all notions developed to explain reality are socially constructed, thus, cannot be considered as consequence of the system. The behavior of actors is determined by the way they perceive the reality, not by reality itself.  [16]  I agree with Holstis argument that constructivism is rather an approach than a theory and can contribute to expanding other theories of international relations.  [17]   Finally, Holsti shows the importance of decision making models in international relations. Certain decisions may be taken or not, depending on the inforrmation acquired and processed within the actors. This proves the importance of consideration together with systemic factors also internal conditions of actors in international relations theories. Conclusion The theories discussed by Holsti represent different approaches to explaining international relations. Each of them presents their view why the states or other actors behave like they do and only in that way. All of the theories tend to universalize and explain the relations between states in terms of simple models. My standpoint is that there cannot be a single universal pattern in which the whole diversity of global processes will fit. This is why none of the theories of international rlations is appropriate to be the theory of globalization. However each of them can be useful in research of certain aspect of globalization. For example, structural realism is considered to be ahistorical, nevertheless, it can be applied to the research of conflicts. Other theories may be used to study complex interdependencies and entanglements in the world. The globalization research should be based on a certain theory, but this theory cannot be limited to one perspective. The most important, I believe, is to take into account different perspectives and approaches in the study of globalization. Therefore, none of them can be priviledged or neglected as they are based on the socially constructed notions.

Comparing Divine Punishment in Oedipus Rex and Leda and the Swan :: comparison compare contrast essays

Divine Punishment in Oedipus Rex and Leda and the Swan        Ã‚  Ã‚   Divine punishment is an irreversible occurrence that creates distinct attitudes in characters.   In Yeats' poem, Leda and the Swan and Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, Divine punishment plays a crucial role, and is the basis for the actions of both Oedipus and Leda.    Yeats and Sophocles explore the idea of Divine punishment in various ways.   Yeats shows Leda's attitude towards the experience of the rape, and the result of the rape leads to Leda's attitude towards the Gods, which then leads to many more travesties.   In a similar way, Sophocles shows Oedipus' reaction to Divine punishment when Oedipus realizes that he has killed his father and married his mother.   It was these actions that drove Leda and Oedipus to experience Divine punishment.   As a result, each has suffered even more.    In Yeats' poem, Leda and the Swan, Yeats explores the idea of Divine punishment in using the result of Leda's rape as his subject.   The offspring Leda produced represents the Divine punishment of the story.   In the story, Leda is raped by a swan, which represents Zeus, the most powerful Greek God.   The consequences of this rape includes two children, Helen and Clytemnestra who later marry and experience the fall of the Trojan empire and the killing of Agamemnon, Clytemnestra's husband.   The story of Leda and the Swan creates a vivid portrait of a rape between an all-powerful swan and Leda, the Spartan Queen.   It is peculiar that two such powerful individuals are the subjects of the horrendous act of rape. Zeus is the most powerful of all gods, and Leda herself has great power, being the Queen of Sparta.   Aside from this however, lies another topic, which Yeats attempts to explore, and that is the idea of Divine punishment. The mere thought of punishment from the Div ine, meaning God, is the reason why Leda allows the Swan to continue the rape without a great deal of fight.   Yeats writes, "Being so caught up, so mastered by the brute blood of the air, did she put on his knowledge with his power before the indifferent beak could let her drop?" (Kuehn 140).   Here, Leda must choose whether or not she should put all of her power in Zeus, knowing that he has harmed her.   Her action to not resist the force leads to the Divine punishment.

Performance Management in a Human Resources Framework Essay

Performance Management in a Human Resources Framework Introduction The purpose of this assignment to is to consider Performance Management in a Human Resources Framework. Firstly, the assignment will look at the concept of ‘Human Resources Management’ as a holistic strategic approach to managing the relationship between employer and employee that goes beyond the bounds of mere ‘Personnel Management’. Secondly, in light of the statement from Cooke and Armstrong (1990, cited in Rudman, 2002) that â€Å"Human resources strategies exist to ensure that the culture, values and structure of the organisation and the quality, motivation and commitment of its members contribute fully to the achievement of its objectives† (p. 7), I will examine the extent to which my school’s performance appraisal and professional development policy and practice fit into a human resources framework. Lastly, these examples will be used to identify some of the potential and pitfalls of performance appraisal and professional development for an educational organisation. Human Resources Management – a holistic approach Human resource management (HRM) can be viewed as a holistic approach to managing the relationships in an organisation between the employer and employee. Rudman’s (2002) definition of HRM implies this holistic approach, in that HRM â€Å"covers all the concepts, strategies, policies and practices which organisations use to manage and develop the people who work for them† (p. 3). Several authors (Macky & Johnson 2000; McGraw, 1997; Rudman, 2002; Smith, 1998) acknowledge that HRM is the strategic and coherent approach to the management of an organisation’s most valued assets – the people working there who individually and collectively contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the organisation. The terms ‘human resource management’ (HRM), ‘human resources’ (HR) and even ‘strategic human resource management’ (SHRM) have largely replaced the term â€Å"personnel management† as a description of the processes involved in managing people in organisations during the decades of the 1980s and 1990s (McGraw, 1997; Rudman, 2002). â€Å"People have been making personnel decisions since the earliest of times† (Rudman, 2002, p. 2), however, from a historical perspective, the modern form of personnel management was founded from the time of the industrial revolution on two main beliefs: 1) the employer’s concern for the welfare of its workers, and 2) the organisation’s need for control (Rudman, 2002). Over the last century personnel management evolved through the changing responses between these two beliefs and altered because of influences through scientific management, the industrial welfare and human relations movements , the development of trade unions and collective bargaining, and the growth of employment-related legislation (Rudman, 2002). Today, personnel management is associated with the functional aspects of people in organisations, whereas HRM is associated with the strategic aspects of people in organisations (Rudman, 2002). In practice the distinction between Personnel and Human Resource Management is often blurred because organisations need both function and strategic direction for managing and developing people (McGraw, 1997). Personnel management (PM) is therefore often used to describe the work related with administering policies and procedures for staff appointments, salaries, training and other employer/employee interactions.

Example University Of Maryland Admisson Essay

Example University Of Maryland Admisson Essay Free Online Research Papers Example University Of Maryland Admisson Essay June 11, 2004, 4:37 a.m. As dawn approached I was still awake, packing and repacking my bags. As I noticed the rainy weather I wondered what the weather would be like in Sells, Arizona. I had been anticipating this missions trip for weeks and had planned meticulously for it. My parents called me paranoid, but I really only wanted to be prepared; after all, I was going to live for weeks without family. The first step in this new experience was to let go of the starting point and family. As I left for the airport, they looked at me as though they would never see me again. However, although the worry they expressed was earnest, something inside me felt compelled to push away all my insecurities as we exchanged our farewells. After the missions teams five hour plane ride across America to Sells, we were at our final destination. Surprisingly, after the strenuous workout of dragging around heavy luggage with a combination of being sleep-deprived, one look at the few enthusiastic church members was all it took to transfer their contagious energy into my own body. Thousands of miles away from home, I felt as though I had been abducted by aliens since my surroundings were remote and exotic. The exhausting heat and barren land were all foreign to me. Upon arriving at the destination, I observed carefree children playing in decrepit shelters. As I adjusted to my surroundings, I befriended the natives that I would live with for the next two weeks. Each one of them possessed a unique personality; yet, like my friends at home, they all had the same quality in their smile, which never failed to persuade me to return that same genuine smile. However, despite their seemingly contented attitude on the surface, deep inside each one of them was a harrowing whimper for help. Many were struggling to escape poverty, gangs, homelessness, drugs, and hardships beyond my imagination. Soon, I realized that I took many of my opportunities and possessions for granted, and became more determined than ever to give what I could to my Arizona kids. . The unforgiving sunlight woke me every morning and hauled me out of my sleeping bag. Although sometimes I would be discouraged at the challenging tasks before me, my comrades, especially my friend Steves utmost jubilation and optimism encouraged me as we tackled another day of service. After a couple days of the routine breakfast, bible study and crafts, praise and worship, I became gradually more confident in my abilities to help others. I formed habit of waking up early and tried to rise even before the sun. One morning I set out to help my pastor prepare the days food and services. In return, I received gratitude and sense of assurance from my pastor and the other missionaries analogous to the comfort of home and family. In my serving I received, in return, a sense of accomplishment and belonging. This leadership position was crucial because of the duties that I fulfill for the mission and children. But, I also realized such position holds a greater importance because I am able to be a motivator and influence others in a undertaking to make a difference in old child, an elderly, disabled, and countless others who seek help. In every project my prayer was that I would make at least one persons day brighter. I grew less aware of unbearable heat and lack of luxury, as I saw the change in the lives of the children I met. I devoted every motion and thought into the service to the children. What I thought would be a simple mission trip extended to one of much more significance, a lesson in life, giving me motivation to view life in a new perspective. I came to realize just how harsh of a condition these kids grew up in. Having always been provided with all the necessities in life by none other than my own two parents, I never understood exactly how well I had it. Essentially, what began as a mission to change the kids became a journey in which these kids, who were more unfortunate than I ever was, changed me by teaching me to cherish everything I had. .I returned home, with a better understanding of the importance of family, a greater appreciation for my teachers and their service in education. I also gained a new determination to serve those around me. Through my involvement of community service, ranging from serving food and playing music in homeless shelters to helping the elderly play bingo at retirement homes to tutoring elementary school kids, I have realized the truth in Martin Luther Jr.s proclamation: Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. You dont have to have a college degree to serve. You dont have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love. By attending University of Maryland, I hope to find even more opportunities to serve others. Realizing the importance of viewing every opportunity as a precious gift, I am confident that I will be able to take my pursuit of knowledge to its highest level. I am excited to be immersed in intellectual inquiry that I seek from a college setting and will make myself be known as a disciplined person who tackles challenges and is not satisfied until the best has been achieved. Through exchange of ideas and collaboration of efforts, I wish to build a promising and fulfilling future where I can not only fulfill my dreams but impacting the lives of people I love, know and live among this world. To me, college is the best opportunity that can be given to a person; I will seize college to make it the pinnacle of my accomplishments. 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10 Tips for Critiquing Other Peoples Writing

10 Tips for Critiquing Other Peoples Writing 10 Tips for Critiquing Other People’s Writing 10 Tips for Critiquing Other People’s Writing By Mark Nichol You’ve agreed to review someone else’s writing. You’ve taken my advice and determined whether the person is requesting a general impression or is asking for an in-depth critique. If the writer has the latter in mind, you’ve offered to evaluate a brief sample as a guide to help the person extrapolate what they should look for when they revise their draft. (If you’re asked to critique an entire book in depth, you should do so only for pay or as part of a bartering arrangement, because you’re being asked to devote dozens of hours of your time.) You have also determined to be honest and objective, because that is what the writer wants and needs: If you note structural weaknesses or flaccid prose, a literary agent or an editor will certainly do so, and your task is to help the writer resolve such flaws so that they are absent from the manuscript the writer eventually submits to an agent or a publisher. Here are ten tips for a positive, productive critiquing experience: 1. Tolerate the Task When you write, you don’t have to be an aficionado or expert to produce an article or a story on a given topic. Editors don’t need these qualifications, either, and they don’t have to be enamored of the writer’s voice or technique. The same goes for someone conducting a critique: Don’t turn down a request for feedback just because you’re not interested in the subject or you don’t like the writing style. Help the writer succeed in reaching the audience they are writing for. (But don’t hesitate to express your opinion if you think the approach is flawed.) 2. Ask for a Clean Copy The manuscript sample you receive should appear exactly as it would look when it’s ready for submission to a publishing professional. Hard copy should be double spaced and must be free of handwritten annotations or emendations. An electronic document should be professionally formatted and at least mostly devoid of the writer’s notes to self. 3. Mark It Up If you’re reviewing an electronic copy, activate change tracking and edit it. Insert notes using the comment feature or by entering them in brackets, highlighted in boldface or with colored type or background, so they are easily located and distinguished from the content. If you’re working on hard copy, use a pen or a colored pencil for brief notes, and write or type your detailed queries and comments on a separate sheet of paper or in a computer document. 4. Evaluate the Writing, Not the Writer Compliments and complaints alike should focus on the product, not the producer. Refer to the sentence or the section, the character or their actions, the narrative flow or the exchange of dialogue rather than to the person who requested your help. Suggest how to improve the article or the story, not the writer. 5. Start and Stop with the Positive Whether you’re responding with general impressions or providing detailed feedback, begin by lauding the strengths of the sample, and reiterate your positive feedback when you summarize your critique. Refer to strengths, not weaknesses, and use positive language: â€Å"stronger,† â€Å"more interesting,† â€Å"a better approach.† Be frank but diplomatic: Even people who can take criticism need to hear that they’re doing something right, and that’s what you should start (and end) with. 6. Craft Your Critiques Be specific, not vague. Be active, not passive. Point out problems, but suggest solutions. Your goal is to clearly communicate to the writer about how they can more clearly communicate to their readers. 7. Guide, Don’t Carry The writer will appreciate focused feedback, and you should feel free to model precise changes in structure or tone and detailed revisions of narrative or dialogue, but do so sparingly. Think of your advice as patterns for the writer to use as templates, or you may end up rewriting the piece, and the writer will have learned little or nothing (except never to ask for your help again). 8. Invite Questions Set up a time to go over your critique after the writer has had a chance to review it. Welcome the writer’s requests for clarification and discussion. If the writer becomes defensive, mention that you have offered your perspective, and that they are free to act on your critique as they see fit. 9. Follow Up Check in with the writer and see how they’re progressing. No matter how careful you are about being diplomatic, the writer may feel a bit battered, and part of your unwritten contract should include a clause requiring you to keep in touch about the project. 10. Know Your Limits It’s reasonable for a writer to ask you for a second light look at the piece after they have made changes in response to your comments, or to request that you provide a general impression about a revision based on your in-depth critique. But establish boundaries about how much time and effort you expend on the writer’s work. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Fiction Writing category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:35 Synonyms for â€Å"Look†Used To vs. Use ToHow Do You Fare?

Sustainability and population density Dissertation

Sustainability and population density - Dissertation Example The chief issue in such a situation is the creation of effective governance by the various State authorities that must necessarily work towards maintaining a sustainable development (SD) program, and apply adequate restraints on the human demand for natural resources, in order to protect the natural supply. 1.1 Sustainable development Sustainable development  (SD) refers to use of natural resources that aims at satisfying human needs, while safeguarding the  environment,  in order to create a developmental plan that aims that aims at meeting not only the requirements of the present generation but also that of the future generations. The term sustainable development was first coined by the  Brundtland Commission,  which defined it as the word as "which implies meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs† (United Nations, 42/187 Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987; WCED, 1987). Fig 1: Sustainable Development: Components, Scenarios, Consequences, this diagram shows the path of sustainable development that creates a link between the past, present, and future generations (Winograd and Farrow, 2002, 4). ... Sustainable development links the concerns that arise out of  bearing the total capacity  of  the natural resources  along with social pressures. In 1970, we find that the term "sustainability" was used to characterize an  economy  that was "in equilibrium with basic ecological support systems" (Stivers, 1976). SD can be divided into three basic parts:  environmental  protection,  social  sustainability, and economic progress (fig 2). Fig 2: A Visual Representations of Sustainable Development through pillars and circles, showing the three basic components (Adams, 2006, 2). Sustainable development is a quantitative variable and can be measured through observations on how well a community is adhering to the needs and conjectures of the present and future citizens. There are various indicators to measure the SD within a community. 1.2 Sustainability indicators Indicators are essential part of any process that helps to evaluate how much of the work done has achieved t he desired target, while also indicating how much work remains to be done. An appropriate indicator makes one aware of an existing problem, and helps to assess the various measures to fix the problem. Indicators of a sustainable development refer to the areas that form a weak connection between environmental protection, economic development, and social sustainability. Sustainability indicators reflect the close interrelation that exists between the three different dimensions for SDs, which are represented in the figure below: Fig 3: A diagram showing the close interactions between environment, the economy, and social sustainable measures of SD (Sustainable Measures, What is an indicator of sustainability? 2010). As seen in the above diagram the environmental or natural

A summary about a primary source about american history before 1865 Essay

A summary about a primary source about american history before 1865 - Essay Example Such was a significant stand that had earned him hatred among the white farmers who relied on slave labor. Furthermore, slave trade was a large industry that contributed to the economy of the country at the time. The president restates his desire to end slavery owing to the inhumane aspects it exhibited. He explains that he seeks to end slavery by influencing a change in the country’s constitution. This way, he shows that he respects the constitution. He would only introduce a change in the constitution by influencing the mindset of other elected representatives. In the letter, he expresses his desire in saving the union. The civil war threatened to destabilize the United States. He therefore explains his desire and efforts aimed at ending the civil war thus saving the union. In doing this, he explains will comply with the letters of the constitution and ending slavery thus creating a cohesive state that upholds the values of