A Brief Description of the Feeling of Wonder

Jeaniqua Stanford January 17, 2013 ACP 110-02 Definition Paper Wonder is a feeling of curiosity, amazement, and surprise. Wonder can happen at any given moment, but most times it is not truly wonder. Most times when someone believes something as wonderful, they simply mistake it for wonderful. Instead what they are feeling is simply curiosity or amazement. Wonder is so much deeper than those simple emotions, it is to a point that when you feel wonder you become speechless. When you see, feel, hear, touch, or taste something that makes you feel speechless, like you literally have no words that can explain how you are feeling.If you ask people what wonder is, you will stump them. They will not know how to explain what exactly they feel when they feel wonder. Wonder is one of those emotions that is hard to explain. You know it when you feel it but you cannot explain it. In the ACP 11O-02 course at Roosevelt University, the students were asked what they believed wonder was. The students looked around, some even looked out the window, hoping that they would not be called on. This question is not one that is asked every day, so people do not normally have an answer ready for it.They probably would have to think about it for a long time until they can sum up at least one sentence for what wonder is. When sitting in the ACP course, the general definition of wonder that came from the discussion, was something that makes you feel amazement. Something that is wonderful to most people would be birth, or pregnancy. The whole process of having a child, psychically having it, is speechless. Mothers say that it hurts like nothing they have ever felt, but the emotion they feel once it is over and they get to hold the life they have been nurturing for nine months, is indescribable.The joy that takes over their faces is a moment that should be remembered, and most likely is. Wondrous things are everywhere in the world and if a person just happens to be at the right and at the rig ht time, than they might get to experience it. It is hard to say that something inanimate is wonderful, because it is hard to explain. Trying to find the words to say what a person feels about life itself is difficult. It is wonderful because even though it is explained and can be scientifically described, words truly cannot describe life.Yes, life is the way people go about living on the earth and what they do, but what else is it? How exactly did it happen? Religious people would say that God created man, the planet, and everything else on it. But then scientists would say that we evolved from other beings that roamed the earth before us. If you go for the scientists’ thoughts on life, than the religious people could easily counter that argument with a question on who created everything that we evolved from. Wonder is that emotion that everybody confuses with other things, is it really wonder or is it amazement.Can you explain how you feel or are there no words for how you feel? Those are the questions people need to ask when thinking about what is wonderful to them. The definition of wonder is something that leaves you speechless and curious for more information on it. Life is the one thing that is wondrous to most people because it is unexplainable. A person can guess all they want about how life came about, but they will never find the true answer of it, unless they find someone or something that has been alive for the entirety of earth’s existence.

The Treaty of Versailles Essay

Treaty of Versailles Essay During World War One, there was massive devastation done to the Allies and the Central Powers and will be remembered for many years to come. The peace treaty that ended the war was called the Treaty of Versailles and its consequences would have far reaching impact. The Great War was fought using trench warfare and a stalemate was created. On the Western front France was fighting Germany, there were many casualties, 15 million soldiers were seriously injured, 7 million were permanently disabled and 8 million were killed.There was major destruction to land, property and empires were destroyed: The German, Austro-Hungarian, Ottoman and Russian. It was a total war; it took all resources from countries and caused food shortages. By the end of the war, famine had killed millions of people and diseases flourished in the wartime conditions. In 1917 the Americans came into the war and the Russians left. Finally the stalemate is broken and Germany made an extremely h arsh treaty with Russia. The victorious countries were furious, they blamed Germany for starting the war and causing so much devastation to their countries.They wanted Germany to pay, so the Allies created a treaty which held Germany responsible for WW1. The second cause of the Treaty was the Big Three setting the stage for the treaty with their aims and attitudes. Woodrow Wilson (President of the U. S) wanted to end war by making a fair peace. He wanted disarmament and a League of Nations set up, where countries could settle their problems without war. David Lloyd George (Prime Minister of Britain), wanted justice, not revenge. He said the treaty must not be harsh because that in return would just cause another war in a few years time.By far the harshest of all the Big Three was George Clemenceau the Prime Minister of France. Most of the war had been fought in France, so he wanted revenge and to punish the Germans for the massive destruction they had done to France. He also wanted Germany broken up (weakened), so that France couldn’t be invaded again. Basically Clemenceau’s aim was to completely shatter Germany. The terms of the treaty include – blame for the war (cause 231, war guilt), high reparations, army restrictions and loss of territory.In addition to the huge loss Germany had already suffered, the worst of it all had to be the extreme amount of reparations. A figure was set in 1921 of ? 6,600. 000 million. Germany was seriously disadvantaged, because reparations economically crippled them. The first of the payments were made in 1922 (only just), and in 1923 Germany falls behind on payments. France gets angry and invades the Ruhr, in the Ruhr the German workers go on strike and to pay them the government prints more money, which creates hyperinflation. This meant it was cheaper to burn money than firewood.The economy was hugely suffering and as a whole so the country. The Germans were angry for having to take blame for starting the war. Another consequence of the treaty was the League of Nations, which was apart of Woodrow Wilson’s 14 points. The league was very weak because the three big powers were not involved and they needed the big, powerful nations to strengthen the league. This was so they could have more authority, because hardly anybody listened to the League. It was pointless because there weren’t very strict penalties and if countries didn’t agree with the League they would just drop out.However the League did have a few successes, such as when they freed 200,000 slaves in Africa and Burma after they attacked slave traders. The League also worked to prevent malaria and leprosy as well as taking home half a million World War One prisoners of war. In addition to those successes the league also set up camps and fed Turkish refugees and sent economic experts to help Austria and Hungary. Although the League was relatively weak, they had a number of successes, but even the successes didn’t seem to overcome the failures of the League.Eventually when war broke out in 1939 the League closed down and ultimately failed to prevent war from happening. In conclusion World War One was the major cause of the Treaty of Versailles, along with the aims and attitudes of the Big Three, which caused an awfully harsh treaty to be created. This in turn economically crippled Germany, because of the huge reparations and also left the Germans feeling angry for having to take the blame for starting the war. The final consequence of the treaty mentioned in this essay was the formation of the League of Nations, which in time closed down because of more failure that success to prevent war.

Ancient Chinese Contributions Essay

As a young child growing up in Chicago Illinois, I remember my family excitedly preparing for the fourth of July fireworks show that took place annually at the Navy Pier. I remember staring up into the Chicago sky at night in anticipation of the first round of fireworks. The crowed all around me excited and ready for the show. From the beginning of the show with the first explosion and until the last firework faded into the night, I was riveted, almost in a spell. At that time when I was a child, I made no connection between the Chinese and this great spectacle that I loved to see. As I have grown older I have learned many things that escaped me when I was a child. I can remember sitting at home waiting for Kung Fu Theater to begin, I can recall most of the settings taking place during the early feudal times in China. I never really paid much attention to the display of fireworks in some of these movies or any of the other numerous inventions that the Chinese developed over time. I made no connections at all, now looking back it all makes sense, I understand the significance of those things I witnessed as a child. Now I understand the quality of life many of those things invented so long ago have afforded me today. The following is an excerpt from the Minnesota-China Connection website; You may think that fireworks are as American as the Fourth of July, but we would not have them without Chinese inventiveness. The first fireworks might have been an accident. Legend tells that a cook discovered the ingredients for black powder, and quickly the Chinese were entertaining themselves with beautiful displays in the night sky. In the year 1161, the Chinese used explosives for the first time in warfare. And who invented cannons and guns? The Chinese, of course. They also used gunpowder to make primitive flamethrowers and even explosive mines and multiple-stage rockets. The use of gunpowder in weapons gave those with access to the technology a greater ability to protect themselves from enemies or to conquer and control others. It greatly affected the balance of power in many parts of the world. Chinese firearms, fireworks and gunpowder were popular items of trade along the Silk Route (or Silk Road) to Europe. 1994-2011, The Franklin Institute) When I was a child I enjoyed fireworks so much that it has stuck with me all these years and so much that I made sure my children had the chance to experiences it too. Another memory comes to mind much later on in life and was while I was serving on board the USS Donald Cook DDG 75. I can recall one summer while we out to sea doing weapon systems certifications. During one particular evolution we fired more than 180 rounds from the ships 5† 54 main gun. After that evolution nearly every corner of the ship reeked of cordite. This particular assignment brought that memory back. This is the first of the most important inventions ever. Not just because of fireworks, but because the invention of gun power enabled the average man to hunt for food more effectively, kill his prey from a greater distance and take down larger animals. It also enable man to defend his family, home, community and or country. The second greatest invention would be paper, printing and publishing, this Chinese invention could be arguably the number one most important invention in the history of man. But if I had to chose with having paper or a gun, I will take the gun every time. But the ability to record and preserve information efficiently, could have only been done with the invention of paper. The ability to duplicate important documents for larger consumption by the general population could not have happened without this invention. Here is another excerpt from the Minnesota-China Connection website; In almost every respect, the Chinese were at the forefront of developing the printed word. In 105 A. D. Ts’ai Lun invented the process for manufacturing paper, introducing the first use in China. The paper was superior in quality to the baked clay, papyrus and parchment used in other parts of the world. By 593 A. D. , the first printing press was invented in China, and the first printed newspaper was available in Beijing in 700 A. D. It was a woodblock printing. And the Diamond Sutra, the earliest known complete woodblock printed book with illustrations was printed in China in 868 A. D. And Chinese printer Pi Sheng invented movable type in 1041 A. D. Exported to the Western world, it is similar to the technology that German printer Johann Gutenberg used in the 1450s to produce his famous editions of the Bible. And in 1155 A. D. , Liu Ching produces first printed map in China. The impact these inventions had on the educational, political and literary development of the world is simply incalculable. (1994-2011, The Franklin Institute) The third greatest Chinese invention would be the plow, this enabled man too master agriculture. This invention has been modified many times over the years but still maintains its basic function. It is the reason that large metropolitan centers are sustainable today. Without this invention the leap in agricultural production may never have taken place and we would undoubtedly live in a very different environment . Here is another excerpt on this subject from the Minnesota-China Connection website; Around the Third Century B. C. , China produced the moldboard plow for tilling farmland. This ground-buster had a wing-shaped cast-iron blade that turned up the soil more easily and efficiently. Eventually, these plows would revolutionize agriculture in the Western world. Chinese farmers greatly improved the ability of horses to pull wagons or plows with the â€Å"collar harness. † Unlike the â€Å"throat harnesses† used in Europe, the collar harness did not choke the animal. When horses breathed easier, they could pull more weight greater distances. The wheelbarrow is another laborsaving device invented by the Chinese during the First Century B. C. These one-wheeled wonders wouldn’t even exist in Europe before the 11th or 12th Centuries. The forth most important invention would be the compass, without the compass we would not be as effective exploring and mapping out our environments. This is what enabled us to cross the oceans as well as continents with certainty of location. The compass is at the heart of the GPS systems today, we use them every day now. We have them in our phones as well. We don’t have to pick up street maps if we don’t want too. This is without a doubt one of the greatest inventions the Chinese developed. We would be lost without the compass today. Here is another excerpt from the Minnesota-China Connection website on the subject ; By the third century AD, Chinese scientists had studied and learned much about magnetism in nature. For example, they knew that iron ore, called magnetite, tended to align itself in a North/South position. Scientists learned to â€Å"make magnets† by heating pieces of ore to red hot temperatures and then cooling the pieces in a North/South position. The magnet was then placed on a piece of reed and floated in a bowl of water marked with directional bearings. These first navigational compasses were widely used on Chinese ships by the eleventh century AD. The Chinese have invented so many things that go hand in hand with our life styles today. It is safe to say we would in no way be as comfortable or as efficient without those inventions. In addition to those inventions I have listed, here are a few more inventions that compliment the afore mentioned developments. The kite, a wonderful invention that led to the discovery and development of electricity later in history. Cast iron from the fourth century B. C. E. , also used in the development of the plow. The Horse Collar was another invention that enabled horses to be more effective when moving and pulling large loads. (1994-2011, The Franklin Institute) The Chinese developed collar was far more effective than western collars that literally choked the horse under strain from large loads. And lastly but in no way the least is the Wheelbarrow. Developed in the first century B. C. E is one of the most useful tools ever invented. If you have a home with a large amount of land then you will and can appreciate this unassuming tool. It is one of the greatest inventions to me because its powered by me and enables me to keep my property clean, fertilize and mix compounds with potting soil for flower beds. I move leaves, rocks and other debris on my property. (1994-2011, The Franklin Institute) The wheelbarrow is one of the most overlooked inventions the Chinese developed, it is one of those tools that you do not know that you need until you have to move large quantities of material, soil, mix concrete or clean up after a storm. That’s why it is my favorite and the most important invention to me, even though I do very much appreciate all the other inventions as well. (1994-2011, The Franklin Institute)

Will offering work-life balance programs result in positive outcomes Essay

Will offering work-life balance programs result in positive outcomes for organisations and for employees - Essay Example Work-life balance programs vary widely depending on organisational policy and include such programs as flextime, telecommuting, paternity leave and even job sharing. These programs are implemented so that the organisation can demonstrate a solid commitment to improving employee relations and to allow employees to balance their personal demands with job role obligations. Work-life policies, in most instances, provide exceptionally positive outcomes for the organisation and employees who make use of the availability of these programs, including employee motivation, increased employee commitment, cohesive organisational cultures and reduced employee turnover that satisfies cost control issues at the organisation. The outcomes of work-life balance programs Positive outcomes associated with work-life balance programs can be attributed to social exchange theory, a psychological supposition that human relationships are founded on reciprocal actions and mutual negotiations between two or mor e parties (Emerson 1976). Social exchange theory posits that employees will repeat an action if they find they are rewarded for the behaviour (Robbins, Chatterjee and Canda 2011). Work-life programs are established by organisational leaders in an effort to provide incentives for employees to provide superior effort and motivation. As a result of this reward, employees respond by exerting maximum effort even when the job role involves an intensification of work responsibilities (Kelliher and Anderson 2010). Hence, there is a quantifiable set of positive psychological outcomes under social exchange theory that provides superior return on investment, in terms of increased productivity and motivation, to the employer. Also at the psychological level, work-life balance programs provide greater employee satisfaction which provides the incentive for employees to be more productive. Having some level of personal control over an employee’s working conditions is considered very valuabl e to workers that engage with these programs (Kelliher and Anderson 2010). It is recognised in research studies that when an employer provides workers with workplace autonomy, it is positively linked to job satisfaction (Emery and Barker 2007). This satisfaction leads to happier workers and job productivity increases (Nauert 2011). The research evidence indicating a positive link between satisfaction and higher productive outputs in the job role illustrate that work-life balance programs maintain considerable positive benefits to both the employee and the employer. Employee commitment is enhanced and there is overall better job performance when an employee is able to work in autonomous work environments (Nauert 2011). From the business perspective, the ability of work-life balance programs to provide perceptions of autonomy even leads to lower employee turnover, thus saving the organisation costs associated with recruitment and training of new employees. Work-life programs also prov ide the organisation with much less overhead costs that is sustained through employees working from home (Beauregard and Henry 2009). In a business where employees are not offered work-life programs, such as telecommuting, businesses must absorb a variety of costs, including office supplies, utilisation of electric services, telephony, and many other administrative costs. By having employees work from home, businesses can reduce their daily operational expenses, thereby satisfying budget concerns. This is a positive outcome from an organisation perspective, especially

Cancer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Cancer - Essay Example However, in the recent times, the incidence of cancer has been on the rise (Dein, 2006, p. 35). There are various dietary, genetic, lifestyle related and environmental factors that could cause cancer (Dein, 2006, p. 35). Medical experts associate this trend with a range of factors such as pollution, smoking, stress, improper dietary choices, faulty lifestyles, substance abuse, genetics and the like, which negatively influence the cell division mechanisms in the body and lead to cancerous tumors in different human organs (Dein, 2006, p. 35). To put it in simple words, cancer happens to be an uncontrolled division of cells in an organism’s body (Weinberg, 1999, p. 1). In a healthy individual the division of body cells is systematic and controlled and facilitates many important body functions and physiological developments. However, in case this cell division gets uncontrolled, it may form a tumor, the name attributed to a mass of abnormal cells (Weinberg, 1999, p. 1). As cancero us tumors are composed of abnormal cells, they do not serve any healthy function in an organism’s body. Rather, an unobstructed growth of cancerous tumors obstructs the normal working of the healthy tissues and in extreme cases, if not checked through medical intervention, may cause death (Weinberg, 1999, p. 1). Cancers are caused by a variety of reasons or factors. They may infect any part or tissue in a body. Many a time cancers are caused by genetic disorders (Adrouny, 2002, p. 7).

Paraphrasing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 22

Paraphrasing - Essay Example One needs to drink adequate amount of water and have enough rest to overcome heat effects on the body. The WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) system is used to measure heat and its index takes into consideration all environmental factors like humidity, radiant heat and air heat. WBGT can be ascertained through direct and indirect sunlight exposure. WBGT is made up of dry, wet and black globe thermometers. Dry bulb thermometer records air temperature (Tdb). Natural wet bulb thermometer records evaporative temperature (Tnwb) while black globe thermometer records radiant temperature (Tg). The analog and the digital instruments did not exhibit a significant variation in temperature. Both gadgets are designed to measure air temperature. Both instruments effectively record air temperature, but, they will record different measurements owing to the fact that one records temperature readings with decimals unlike the other. The experiment utilized a heater to assess the heating condition in for ten minutes. When the heater was used, we observed that the temperature of the two instruments increased. Air circulation was not measured, but the absence of a fan means there was limited error possibility in our data. Like any other experiment, this experiment is not free of human and gadget errors. Probable sources of error in this experiment include malfunctioning of instruments, thermometer failure on analog instrument and wrong data entry among others. In summary, this experiment is crucial for safety managers who can implement it in work environments with temperature fluctuati on to ensure safe working environment for

Discuss the effectiveness of the way Conservation Areas are Coursework

Discuss the effectiveness of the way Conservation Areas are identified, protected and managed in the context of the aim to protect and enhance character and appearance - Coursework Example Identifying a conservation area takes a number of ways. One of the ways involves looking into historic characterization of an area in relation to development threats. The history outlays the initial plan that explains the special characteristics that could have been attached to the area (Mokany, et. al., 2014, p. 1) The other way is inviting the residents in identifying the characteristic of the area, that is most important to them, because of the historical association only understood by them (English Heritage, 2012, p.4). The evidence gathered on such characterization advice the local authority to articulate the special interest and support such an area has before appraising the place to a conservation area. Appraisal thus expresses the exact element that makes the area have a special quality to be conserved. Appraising an area before designating for conservation is used as a key to understanding the area’s characteristics that are necessary for planning and decision making. The authorities involved, through the appraisal process, gets to analyze the usable parts of the area to be conserved as well as evaluate the necessary beneficial changes that can be adopted (Buchanan, Donald, Butchart, 2011, p. 1). The authorities then develop a management plan on how the area can be restrained from development changes capable of eroding the characteristics under conservation (Forest Stewardship Council, 2008, p.1). Conservation area designation is based on a number of historical and architectural interests. Part of the interests focus on sections in an area where there is a higher number of heritage assets (Cowan, 2004, p.7). The assets could be nationally or community designated. Historic associations may include historical architectural styles or building materials still visible in the modern planning patterns. The value attached to any of the traits lead to conservation either by

The develoment of Arab Nationalism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The develoment of Arab Nationalism - Essay Example Arab nationalism called for a political and cultural rejuvenation of the Arab world, an intense celebration of the Arab civilization and the Arab literature and language, and called for a political unification of the Arab world (Dawisha, 2005). The premise that encouraged the Arab nationalism was the firm belief that the Arab people tended to share a common linguistic heritage, cultural values, historical past and religious belief system (Dawisha, 2005). Genesis of Arab Nationalism In that context it is imperative to unravel the genesis of Arab nationalism. Since the 16th century the Ottoman Empire exercised a formal sovereignty over the Arab lands (McCarthy, 2006). For quiet a time the Ottoman Empire tended to be cautious in its approach towards the Arab tribes, choosing to garrison the key ports and cities, exercising little influence in the local Arab politics and tribal affairs (McCarthy, 2006). The Arab residents of Syria, Mesopotamia (Iraq) and Palestine appreciated this arrang ement and actually started dominating the local Ottoman administration (McCarthy, 2006). However, as in 1914 the Ottoman Empire entered the I World War, it no more afforded to take the Arab loyalty for granted. It was first owing to the rise of a nascent Arab nationalism that drew inspiration from the Western ideas (McCarthy, 2006). Many Arabs started to appreciate the nationalist Slavic movements of the Balkans, most of which managed to secure independence from the Ottoman Empire (McCarthy, 2006). The other factor was the rising clout of the educated Arab elites, which included former or serving officers affiliated to the Ottoman administration and army, Arab civil servants and intellectuals (McCarthy, 2006). The completion of Hejaz railway in 1908 was the other bone of contention for the Arabs who believed that it tightened the Ottoman stranglehold on them (McCarthy, 2006). This particularly enervated the Hashemite clan that claimed descent from the Prophet and was led by Sharif H ussein ibn Ali in 1914 (McCarthy, 2006). The disgruntled Arab tribes of the interior resented the stringent approach of the Ottomans and gradually started to enter arrangements with the British, to initiate a revolt against the Ottomans (McCarthy, 2006). This revolt was further incited by the nationalist al-Fatat movement in Syria (McCarthy, 2006). In the post World War I period, the establishment of the French and the British mandate saw varied Arab uprisings like the uprisings in Iraq and Syria (Jankowski, 2002). Besides the relative independence of North Yemen, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Iraq incited the Arab nationalists in the neighbouring regions to overthrow the imminent Western colonial powers (Jankowski, 2002). The ensuing anti-Zionist uprisings in Palestine and anti-colonial activities in Syria further encouraged the nationalist movements in Iraq and Egypt, which gave way to the modern Arab nationalism that led to the independence of varied Arab nations in the period followin g the World War II (Jankowski, 2002). The Role Played by Intelligentsia There is no denying the fact that Arab intellectuals do played a pivotal role in the genesis, encouragement and dissemination of Arab nationalism. Abd al-Rahman al-Kawakibi was a prominent Syrian intellectual

A Case Examination of Policy for Natural Resource Management Essay

A Case Examination of Policy for Natural Resource Management - Essay Example In terms of public sentiment it’s understood that there is substantial public divide in regards to zoning considerations. The older residents of the town generally reject increased zoning and public policy measures, while the newer residents have sought a more structured policy. Adding to the dilemma are two major land use considerations; namely, the land areas in question contribute in substantial ways to the Albany metropolitan region’s water supply, and an impact on the surrounding natural habitat. In addition to these natural concerns, there are concerns related to changes in the social environment and increased need for infrastructure to meet the demands of development. One of the notable features of the public community is that while older and newer residents disagree on the extent of public control the land should be under, they both are in agreement in regards to the sorts of preservation that should occur. In these regards, the question becomes more one of gove rnmental control than it does of disagreements over the types of measures that should be enacted. Even as the older residents oppose government policy measures, it’s clear that they must be enacted; as such, the following policies represent a compromise between desires for land control and the need for regulatory measures. Zoning In terms of zoning there are a number of concerns that must be addressed when deciding on a course of action. The most overarching concern is the balance that must be achieved between land-use and water supply. This policy reports recommends that a comprehensive investigation be made into the proportion of land use and water supply that is necessary for the adjoining reservoir. In developing a suitable compromise between old and new residents a zoning policy were be enacted with different regulations for current and future residents. Upon determining these figures, zoning will be determined along a proportion system. In these regards, there will be established a policy that balances resident seniority and land size, with zoning policy. Transfer and Purchase of Development Rights; Land Trusts; Differential Property Taxation While current landowners will experience a proportionate allotment of land-use within the specified figures, the transfer and purchase of development right s to future owners will be given increased restrictions. In these regards, individuals seeking to purchase development rights for recreational procedures will only be able to do so within the boundaries of the proportionate measures. Current land owners seeking to transfer development rights to outside parties will need to do so within the proportionate standards that are established by the water supply statistics. This will ensure that the base land needs for the adjoining reservoir will never be circumvented through increased land use. Another major concern of current residents was maintaining the current social climate, as well as the increased infrastructure needs brought on by the new residents. As a means of addressing these concerns it’s recommended that the regional authority institute differential property taxation. In these regards, outside of the proportional restrictions put in place for the adjoining reservoir, there will be no zoning that restricts the developme nt of a specific type of use. However, the regional authority will institute a quarterly tax rate that is designed to regulate the transfer, purchase, and development of property. It is understood that increased taxation on recreational land use will slow down development in this zone. This will ensure that a steady social climate is maintained and that the region has the funding to support increased infrast

Able Corporation's Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Able Corporation's Strategy - Essay Example On the other hand, it should implement new technology for the main product line. For an â€Å"ill patient†, high spirit and motivation are the main driven forces which help to recover. The case study shows that â€Å"as a result of years of declining sales and layoffs, a culture of pessimism and failure exists†. The belief system approach will help increase mutual understanding between managers and employees, encouraged and improved two-way communication, and resulted in better working relationships. Improved organizational culture and morale will help sales and branch managers to ease stress and tension at work and convert troubled relationships into more productive ones. At a time when employee morale and job satisfaction would be expected to increase, and employees be expected to feel better about their organization than they did before the change took place and more confident in the abilities of their managers to lead them. The new communication patterns should be d esigned to measure overall levels of job satisfaction also showed major gains. Just as the negative emotions associated poor organizational performance can often go undetected and unaddressed, the motivation and performance problems that cause them frequently remain hidden and unresolved. This strategy is chosen because without good morale and positive atmosphere Able Corporation will not be able to implement new processes and technology, introduce new methods of management and production. Declining sales also triggered intense feelings of anxiety and inadequacy. To achieve greater efficiencies, new methods and procedures have to be developed to replace established work practices, but this meant that some people have to learn their job all over again or master an entirely new position (Armstrong 2001). The main problem is that most employees lack clear expectations. Previous management, tended to issue broad-brush directives regarding organizational change, without going into detail about how they should be carried out. Some of subordinates saw this as a lack of clear expectations. Improved corporate morale and culture will improve teamwork significantly, not just up and down the chain of command, but horizontally as well. And because managers and their direct reports are beginning to understand each other better, conflicts, both real and potential, are able to be resolved at lower levels, before they become entrenched (Chase, Jacobs 2003). This is not to say that every motivation and performance problem can be solved quickly and easily. Some solutions that employees propose may not be available to managers, especially during times of change. If an employee is dissatisfied with his job because his workload has suddenly increased, a manager can hire additional help (when budgets permit) or eliminate certain requirements may provide an easy solution. The proposed strategy will help to prepare employees to the second step and reduce their resistance to change (Armstrong 2001). The second strategy is a technological change. When morale and spirit of an "ill patient" is high, it is possible to 'make the first step'. This strategy is crucial because "plants are so old and have been so badly maintained that some investment must be made in them just in order to remain in business at all". Organizational actions should be involved in the change of a particular technology which takes place simultaneously in multiple environments. In the same spirit, experimentation as a problem-solving activity can take place across organizational units or even across organizational boundaries. This suggests that experimentation, as organizational action, has a double meaning in the development of technology. In addition to viewing technological cha

Hould the pharmaceutical industry be providing free medication to Research Paper

Hould the pharmaceutical industry be providing free medication to those who cannot afford it - Research Paper Example First, if medicines are made available to those who cannot afford them, this is a promotion of fundamental human rights. Specifically, this will help promote the access to health. Pharmaceutical companies have unique human rights responsibilities and this requires that they include the aspect of human rights in their operations (Nwobike, 2006). This industry has a human rights obligation of protecting the right to health to all. This then obligates them to make such drugs available to those who need them even if they may not be able to afford them. This is particularly the case when epidemics such as AIDS are considered. Pharmaceutical corporations should thus put mechanisms in place to ensure that a certain percentage of their profits are directed towards proving free medications to the poor. Just like many other corporations, the pharmaceutical industry has a big influence in promoting human rights, and providing free medications is one of the strategies that can be used to achieve this. Opponents of this view have argued that pharmaceutical companies are like any other corporations and hence should not be treated differently. It is argued that compelling them to provide free medicines would mean that they are treated unfairly. However, it is clear that their violations of human rights are manifested differently and are usually instant (Nwobike, 2006). In many cases, a patient who fails to receive the necessary medication ends up dying, or suffering permanent complications that affect their lives. This demands that in view of the human rights aspect, the pharmaceutical industry needs to be treated differently. Agencies charged with the responsibility of promoting human health, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), should play develop principles and frameworks that will help the pharmaceutical industry provide free medications to those who

Persuasive Letter Essay Example for Free

Persuasive Letter Essay The question of uniforms at school is becoming more pertinent to our society. Wearing a school uniform is a breach of children’s individuality and self expression. Everyone is unique and so making people wear a school uniform takes away their personality. May this be the reason which discourages them from performing to their full potentials? People believe that if students wore their own clothes they would get judged on how they look. However no matter, what you dress in, they will always find a way to pass judgement upon their peers. If it’s not based on the style of clothes you wear, there are many other superficial ways to judge people and form cliques. Uniforms don’t always ensure equality among students. They can actually encourage racism and rivalry between different schools. I tell you that for a fact that not wearing a school uniform actually decreases the number of detentions you get. You may think this sounds stupid, but it is true! Have you ever had one of those bad days where everything seems to go wrong? When something bad happens unexpectedly? Well I’m talking about my friend. The other day she got in trouble because her skirt was too high. Seriously if school uniform was abolished, it wouldn’t lead to this. Detention for such a pointless reason! No way. I surrender That friend was me! We all know that school uniforms are expensive. Uniforms make parent spend money unnecessarily. They tend to be more expensive than the daily clothes we wear, outside of school. Uniforms can cost a lot, especially when more than one child is attending school. Overall, I personally think that school uniforms should be abolished. Uniforms don’t let us express who we really are. They are expensive and often waste a lot of money, when children grow out of them. Please consider taking action on this vital issue. I would truly appreciate it if you would put some time and thought on this case and put my points into consideration.

Studying The Future Prospective Of Nanotechnology Computer Science Essay

Studying The Future Prospective Of Nanotechnology Computer Science Essay This paper explores the present impact of nanotechnology on the consumer market. It situates the technical aspects of nanotechnology and describes some early successes of nanomaterials embraced. It includes a description of technology developments in the area of automotive industry, biomedicine, household appliances, nanowires, nanotubes, nanobubble, nanochips, healthcare and numerous other nanostructured materials with a brief description of the number of research and development activities that are in various stages of testing and qualification. II. INTRODUCTION Nanotechnology is derived from the combination of two words Nano and Technology. Nano means very small or miniature. So, Nanotechnology is the technology in miniature form. It is the combination of Bio- technology, Chemistry, Physics and Bio-informatics, et Nanotechnology is a generic term used to describe the applications that work with matter so small that it exists in the molecular and atomic realm. As the name indicates, the fundamental unit in any nanotechnology system is a nanometer, nm, which is one billionth part of a meter. Nanotechnology research shows that at such micro level, the physical, chemical and biological properties of materials are different from what they were at large scale. Nanotechnology originated in India around 16 years back. This new sphere of scientific innovation has a broader scope. Several Indian institutes have introduced degree courses in Nanotechnology at both the UG and PG levels. The areas covered in the Nanotech are Food and Beverage, Bio- Techn ology, Forensic Sciences, Genetics, Space Research, Environment industry, Medicine, Agriculture and Teaching. The fundamental idea is to harness these altered and often improved properties to develop materials, devices and systems that are superior to the existing products. For instance, breaking a material down into nanoparticles allows it to be rebuilt atom by atom, often improving material strength and decreasing weight and dimensions. Based on this concept, researchers have been able to develop a myriad of nanomaterials with amazing properties. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, also known as CSIR has set up 38 laboratories in India dedicated to research in Nanotechnology. This technology will be used in diagnostic kits, improved water filters and sensors and drug delivery. The research is being conducted on using it to reduce pollution emitted by the vehicles .Looking at the progressive prospects of Nanotechnology in India, Nanobiosym Inc., a US-based leading nanotechnology firm is planning to set up Indias first integrated nanotechnology and biomedicine technology park in Himachal Pradesh. Nanotechnology has certainly acquired. In the long term scenario, nanotechnology promises to make revolutionary advances in a variety of fields. Possible uses of nanomaterials may include the cleaning of heavily polluted sites, more effective diagnosis and treatment of cancer, cleaner manufacturing methods and much smaller and more powerful computers. III CORE CHAPTERS A. History The first use of the concepts found in nano-technology (but pre-dating use of that name) was in Theres Plenty of Room at the Bottom, a talk given by physicist Richard Feynman at an American Physical Society meeting at Caltech on December 29, 1959. Feynman described a process by which the ability to manipulate individual atoms and molecules might be developed, using one set of precise tools to build and operate another proportionally smaller set, and so on down to the needed scale. In the course of this, he noted, scaling issues would arise from the changing magnitude of various physical phenomena: gravity would become less important, surface tension and vander waals attraction would become increasingly more significant, etc. This basic idea appeared plausible, and exponential assembly enhances it with parallelism to produce a useful quantity of end products. The term nanotechnology was defined by Tokyo Science University Professor Norio Taniguchi in a 1974 paper as follows Nano-technology mainly consists of the processing of, separation, consolidation, and deformation of materials by one atom or by one molecule. In the 1980s the basic idea of this definition was explored in much more depth by Dr. K. Eric Drexler, who promoted the technological significance of nano-scale phenomena and devices through speeches and the books Engines of Creation: The Coming Era of Nanotechnology (1986) and Nanosystems: Molecular Machinery, Manufacturing, and Computation, and so the term acquired its current sense. Engines of Creation: The Coming Era of Nanotechnology is considered the first book on the topic of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology and nanoscience got started in the early 1980s with two major developments; the birth of cluster science and the invention of the scanning tunneling microscope (STM). This development led to the discovery of fullerenes i n 1985 and carbon nanotubes a few years later. In another development, the synthesis and properties of semiconductor nanocrystals was studied; this led to a fast increasing number of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles and quantum dots. The atomic force microscope (AFM or SFM) was invented six years after the STM was invented. In 2000, the United States National Nanotechnology Initiative was founded to coordinate Federal nanotechnology research and development and is evaluated. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/C60a.png/175px-C60a.png Fig.1. Buckminsterfullerene C60, also known as the buckyball, is a representative member of the carbon structures known as fullerenes and is a major subject of research in nanotechnology. B. Current Research Nanomaterials field includes subfields which develop or study materials having unique properties arising from their nanoscale dimensions. Interface and colloid science has given rise to many materials which may be useful in nanotechnology, such as carbon nanotubes and other fullerenes, and various nanoparticles and nanorods. Nanomaterials with fast ion transport are related also to nanoionics and nanoelectronics. Nanoscale materials can also be used for bulk applications; most present commercial applications of nanotechnology are of this flavor. Progress has been made in using these materials for medical applications; see Nanomedicine. Nanoscale materials are sometimes used in solar cells which combats the cost of traditional Silicon solar cell. Development of applications incorporating semiconductor nanoparticles to be used in the next generation of products, such as display technology, lighting, solar cells and biological imaging; see quantum dots. 1) Top-down Approaches: These seek to create smaller devices by using larger ones to direct their assembly.Many technologies that descended from conventional solid-state silicon methods for fabricating microprocessors are now capable of creating features smaller than 100  nm, falling under the definition of nanotechnology. Giant magnetoresistance-based hard drives already on the market fit this description, as do atomic layer deposition 2) Bottom-up Approaches: These seek to arrange smaller components into more complex assemblies.DNA nanotechnology utilizes the specificity of Watson-Crick basepairing to construct well-defined structures out of DNA and other nucleic acids. Approaches from the field of classical chemical synthesis also aim at designing molecules with well-defined shape (e.g. bis -peptides). More generally, molecular self-assembly seeks to use concepts of supramolecular chemistry, and molecular recognitionin particular, to cause single-molecule components to automatically arrange themselves into some useful conformation. Peter Grà ¼nberg and Albert Fert received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2007 for their discovery of Giant magnetoresistance and contributions to the field of spintronics. Solid-state techniques can also be used to create devices known as nanoelectromechanical systems or NEMS, which are related to microelectromechanical systems or MEMS. Atomic force microscope tips can be used as a nan oscale write head to deposit a chemical upon a surface in a desired pattern in a process called dip pen nanolithography. This fits into the larger subfield of nanolithography. Focused ion beams can directly remove material, or even deposit material when suitable pre-cursor gasses are applied at the same time. For example, this technique is used routinely to create sub-100  nm sections of material for analysis in Transmission electron microscopy. 3) Functional Approaches: These seek to develop components of a desired functionality without regard to how they might be assembled.Molecular electronics seeks to develop molecules with useful electronic properties. These could then be used as single-molecule components in a nanoelectronic device. For an example see rotaxane. Synthetic chemical methods can also be used to create synthetic molecular motors, such as in a so-called nanocar. 4) Biomimetic Approaches: Bionics or biomimicry seeks to apply biological methods and systems found in nature, to the study and design of engineering systems and modern technology. Biomineralization is one example of the systems studied.Bionanotechnology the use of biomolecules for applications in nanotechnology, including use of viruses. C. Tools and Techniques A microfabricated cantilever with a sharp tip is deflected by features on a sample surface, much like in a phonograph but on a much smaller scale. A laser beam reflects off the backside of the cantilever into a set of photodetectors, allowing the deflection to be measured and assembled into an image of the surface. There are several important modern developments. The atomic force microscope (AFM) and the Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) are two early versions of scanning probes that launched nanotechnology. There are other types of scanning probe microscopy, all flowing from the ideas of the scanning confocal microscope developed by Marvin Minsky in 1961 and the eloped by Calvin Quate and coworkers in the 1970s, that made it possible to see structures at the nanoscale. The tip of a scanning probe can also be used to manipulate nanostructures (a process called positional assembly). Feature-oriented scanning-positioning mescanning acoustic microscope (SAM) dev thodology suggested by Rostislav Lapshin appears to be a promising way to implement these nanomanipulations in automatic mode. However, this is still a slow process because of low scanning velocity of the microscope. Various techniques of nanolithography such as optical lithography, X-ray lithography dip pen nanolithography, electron bea m lithography or nanoimprint lithography were also developed. Lithography is a top-down fabrication technique where a bulk material is reduced in size to nanoscale pattern. The top-down approach anticipates nanodevices that must be built piece by piece in stages, much as manufactured items are made. Scanning probe microscopy is an important technique both for characterization and synthesis of nanomaterials. Atomic force microscopes and scanning tunneling microscopes can be used to look at surfaces and to move atoms around. By designing different tips for these microscopes, they can be used for carving out structures on surfaces and to help guide self-assembling structures. By using, for example, feature-oriented scanning-positioning approach, atoms can be moved around on a surface with scanning probe microscopy techniques. At present, it is expensive and time-consuming for mass production but very suitable for laboratory experimentation. D. Nanotechnologys Future Over the next two decades, this new field for controlling the properties of matter will rise to prominence through four evolutionary stages. Today nanotechnology is still in a formative phasenot unlike the condition of computer science in the 1960s or biotechnology in the 1980s. Yet it is maturing rapidly. Between 1997 and 2005, investment in nanotech research and development by governments around the world soared from $432 million to about $4.1 billion, and corresponding industry investment exceeded that of governments by 2005. By 2015, products incorporating nanotech will contribute approximately $1 trillion to the global economy. About two million workers will be employed in nanotech industries, and three times that many will have supporting jobs. Descriptions of nanotech typically characterize it purely in terms of the minute size of the physical features with which it is concernedassemblies between the size of an atom and about 100 molecular diameters. That depiction makes it sound as though nanotech is merely looking to use infinitely smaller parts than conventional engineering. But at this scale, rearranging the atoms and molecules leads to new properties. One sees a transition between the fixed behavior of individual atoms and molecules and the adjustable behavior of collectives. Thus, nanotechnology might better be viewed as the application of quantum theory and other nano-specific phenomena to fundamentally control the properties and behavior of matter. Over the next couple of decades, nanotech will evolve through four overlapping stages of industrial prototyping and early commercialization. The first one, which began after 2000, involves the development of passive nanostructures: materials with steady structures and functions, often used as parts of a product. These can be as modest as the particles of zinc oxide in sunscreens, but they can also be reinforcing fibers in new composites or carbon nanotube wires in ultra miniaturized electronics. The second stage, which began in 2005, focuses on active nanostructures that change their size, shape, conductivity or other properties during use. New drug-delivery particles could release therapeutic molecules in the body only after they reached their targeted diseased tissues. Electronic components such as transistors and amplifiers with adaptive functions could be reduced to single, complex molecules. Starting around 2010, workers will cultivate expertise with systems of nanostructures, directing large numbers of intricate components to specified ends. One application could involve the guided self-assembly of nanoelectronic components into three-dimensional circuits and whole devices. Medicine could employ such systems to improve the tissue compatibility of implants, or to create scaffolds for tissue regeneration, or perhaps even to build artificial organs. After 2015-2020, the field will expand to include molecular nanosystemsheterogeneous networks in which molecules and supramolecular structures serve as distinct devices. The proteins inside cells work together this way, but whereas biological systems are water-based and markedly temperature-sensitive, these molecular nanosystems will be able to operate in a far wider range of environments and should be much faster. Computers and robots could be reduced to extraordinarily small sizes. Medical applications might be as ambitious as new types of genetic therapies and antiaging treatments. New interfaces linking people directly to electronics could change telecommunications. Over time, therefore, nanotechnology should benefit every industrial sector and health care field. It should also help the environment through more efficient use of resources and better methods of pollution control. Nanotech does, however, pose new challenges to risk governance as well. Internationally, more needs to be done to collect the scientific information needed to resolve the ambiguities and to install the proper regulatory oversight. Helping the public to perceive nanotech soberly in a big picture that retains human values and quality of life will also be essential for this powerful new discipline to live up to its astonishing potential. Drastic advancements have been encountered in the fields of electronics, medicines, science, fabrication and computational related to nanotechnology. The details are as below. 1)Future of Nanoelectronics: The recent progress of nanoelectronic devices has revealed many novel devices under consideration. Even though some devices have achieved experimental results comparable with some of the best silicon FETs, these devices have yet to show electrical characteristics beyond the basic, functional level. In several years from now, the planar MOSFET, combined with high-k dielectric and coupled with strained layer technology, is expected to maintain its domination the market, due to the fact that the manufacturers still attempt to exploit their existing manufacturing capabilities and seem reluctant to adopt new technology. However, the double- and multi-gate MOSFET scaling is superior to recent planar MOSFET and also to UTB FD MOSFET scaling, thus the double and multi-gate device is projected as the ultimate MOSFET. The role of double gate MOSFET and non-planar will take greater share, as this technology become mature and the risk are more understandable in near future. On the other hand, several issues on fabrication in adoption route to standard fabrication have to be solved for every other technology. Figure indicates the projection for the first year of full scale production for future nanoelectronic devices by ITRS, which reflect the degree of complexity in fabrication for each technology. New MOSFET structures, starting with UTB-SOI MOSFETs and followed by multi-gate MOSFETs, will be implemented soon. The next generation devices, e.g. carbon nanotubes, graphene, spin transistor etc are promising, due to their performances shown by many researches. However, the processing issues force them to take longer step to be main devices for nanoelectronics. . http://docsdrive.com/images/ansinet/jas/2010/fig8-2k10-2136-2146.gif Fig.2. Projection for the first year of full scale production for future nanoelectronic devices. Nanochips: Currently available microprocessors use resolutions as small as 32 nm. Houses up to a billion transistors in a single chip. MEMS based nanochips have future capability of 2 nm cell leading to 1TB memory per chip. C:UserssudshresDesktopnanochip.jpg Fig.3 A MEMS based nanochip Nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) Sensor in Nanophotonic systems work with light signals vs. electrical signals in electronic systems. Enable parallel processing that means higher computing capability in a smaller chip. Enable realization of optical systems on semiconductor chip. Fig.4. A silicon processor featuring on-chip nanophotonic network Fuel cells use hydrogen and air as fuels and produce water as by product. The technology uses a nanomaterial membrane to produce electricity. C:UserssudshresDesktoppem fuel cell energysolutioncenter.org.jpg Fig.5. Schematic of a fuel cell C:UserssudshresDesktopfuel cell fuel cell economy-com.gif Fig.6. 500W fuel cell Nanoscale materials have feature size less than 100 nm utilized in nanoscale structures, devices and systems. Nanoparticles and Structures C:UserssudshresDesktopgold nano particle 1 nano.gov.uk.jpg Fig.7. Gold nanoparticles C:UserssudshresDesktopNano picturesNSF silver nanoparticles.tif Fig.8. Silver Nanoparticles C:UserssudshresDesktopstm2.jpg Fig.9. A stadium shaped quantum corral made by positioning iron atoms on a copper surface C:UserssudshresDesktopnanoboquet nsf.gov.jpg Fig.10. A 3-dimensional nanostructure grown by controlled nucleation of Silicon-carbide nanowires on Gallium catalyst particles. C:UserssudshresDesktopflexible nano wire solar cell.jpg Fig.11. Nanowire Solar Cell: The nanowires create a  surface that is able to absorb more sunlight than a flat surface. 2) Nanotubes: Carbon nanotubes since their discovery are used as the building blocks in various nanotechnology applications. Although many applications are at preliminary stages of experimentation, carbon nanotubes has many future prospects in almost all spheres of electronics applications. Highly integrated circuit is one of the areas, where many researchers are focusing the research and electronic properties of carbon nanotubes are being exploited. Researchers have identified and fabricated the electronic devices having densities ten thousand times greater than the present day microelectronics. These technologies will either complement or replace the CMOS. Further the electronic devices based on carbon nanotubes have additional and advance features such as conductivity, current carrying capacity and electromigration. Semi conducting carbon nanotubes having excellent nobilities and semiconductancies have been prepared and these are far better than the conventional semi conductors. Actually there are some major barriers for developing highly integrated circuits such as present fabrication methods produces the mixture of metallic and semiconductor nanotubes and exact electronic arrangements within a semiconductor nanoube is poorly understood. These are therefore the hurdles in manufacturing and fabricating highly integrating circuits, however continuous research in this area will lead to new and much more advance technology that will not only able to overcome from these barriers but will also open the door for new electronic applications also. C:UserssudshresDesktopmr340083.f7-SnO2-TiO2 composite nanoribbon.jpeg Fig.12 Nanotube 3) Future of Nanomedicine: Nanomedicine is the application of nanotechnology in medicine, including to cure diseases and repair damaged tissues such as bone, muscle, and nerve. To develop cure for traditionally incurable diseases (e.g. cancer) through the utilization of nanotechnology and provide more effective cure with fewer side effects by means of targeted drug delivery systems.Nanotechnology is beginning to change the scaleand methods of vascular imaging and drug delivery. NanomedicineInitiatives envisage that nanoscale technologies willbegin yielding more medical benefits within the next10 years. This includes the development of nanoscalelaboratory-based diagnostic and drug discovery platform devices such as nanoscale cantilevers for chemicalforce microscopes, microchip devices, nanopore sequencing, etc. The National Cancer Institute has related programs too,with the goal of producing nanometer scale multifunctionalentities that can diagnose, deliver therapeuticagents, and monitor cancer treatment progress. These include design and engineering of targeted contrast agents that improve the resolution of cancer cells to the single cell level, and nanodevices capable of addressing the biological and evolutionary diversity of the multiple cancer cells that make up a tumor within an individual. Thus, for the full in vivo potential of nanotechnology in targeted imaging and drug delivery to be realized, nanocarriers have to get smarter. Pertinent to realizing this promise is a clear understanding of both physicochemical and physiological processes. These form the basis of complex interactions inherent to the fingerprint of a nanovehicle and its microenvironment. extracellular and intracellular drug release rates in different pathologies, interaction with biological milieu, such as opsonizati on, and other barriers enroute to the target site, be it anatomical, physiological, immunological or biochemical, and exploitation of opportunities offered by disease states (e.g., tissuespecific receptor expression and escape routes from the vasculature). There are numerous examples of disease-fighting strategies in the literature, using nanoparticles. Often, particularly in the case of cancer therapies, drug delivery properties are combined with imaging technologies, so that cancer cells can be visually located while undergoing treatment. The predominant strategy is to target specific cells by linking antigens or other biosensors (e.g. RNA strands) to the surface of the nanoparticles that detect specialized properties of the cell walls. Once the target cell has been identified, the nanoparticles will adhere to the cell surface, or enter the cell, via a specially designed mechanism, and deliver its payload. One the drug is delivered, if the nanoparticle is also an imaging agent, doctors can follow its progress and the distribution of the cancer cell is known. Such specific targeting and detection will aid in treating late-phase metastasized cancers and hard-to-reach tumors and give indications of the spread of those and other diseases. It also prolongs the life of certain drugs that have been found to last longer inside a nanoparticle than when the tumor was directly injected, since often drugs that have been injected into a tumor diffuse away before effectively killing the tumor cells. 4) Future of Nanoscience: Without carbon, life cannot exist, the saying goes, and not only life. For technological development, carbon was the ultimate material of the 19th century. It allowed the beginnings of the industrial revolution, enabling the rise of the steel and chemical industries, it made the railways run, and it played a major role in the development of naval transportation. Silicon, another very interesting material which makes up a quarter of the earths crust, became the material of the 20th century in its turn. It gave us the development of high performance electronics and photovoltaics with large fields of applications and played a pivotal role in the evolution of computer technology. The increased device performance of information and data processing systems is changing our lives on a daily basis, producing scientific innovations for a new industrial era. However, success breeds its own problems, and there is ever more data to be handled-which requires a nanoscience approach. This cluster aims to address various aspects, prospects and challenges in this area of great interest for all our futures. Carbon exists in various allotropic forms that are intensively investigated for their unusual and fascinating properties, from both fundamental and applied points of view. Among them, the sp2 (fullerenes, nanotubes and graphene) and sp3 (diamond) bonding configurations are of special interest since they have outstanding and, in some cases, unsurpassed properties compared to other materials. These properties include very high mechanical resistance, very high hardness, high resistance to radiation damage, high thermal conductivity, biocompatibility and superconductivity. Graphene, for example, possesses very uncommon electronic structure and a high carrier mobility, with charge carriers of zero mass moving at constant velocity, just like photons. All these characteristics have put carbon and carbon-related nanomaterials in the spotlight of science and technology research. The main challenges for future understanding include i) material growth, ii) fundamental properties, and iii) devel oping advanced applications. Carbon nanoparticles and nanotubes, graphene, nano-diamond and films address the most current aspects and issues related to their fundamental and outstanding properties, and describe various classes of high-tech applications based on these promising materials. Future prospects, difficulties and challenges are addressed. Important issues include growth, morphology, atomic and electronic structure, transport properties, superconductivity, doping, nanochemistry using hydrogen, chemical and bio-sensors, and bio-imaging, allowing readers to evalate this very interesting topic and draw perspectives for the future. E. Foreign Prospect of Nanotechnology Nanotechnology provides a significant opportunity to address global challenges. This is leading to intense global competition to commercialise different products enabled by nanotechnology. However, UK industry is well placed to capitalise on this opportunity and participate in the development of many new products and services by operating alone or in collaboration with international partners. Success in this area will lead to growth in employment and wealth creation. Today, nanotechnology is evolving with some mature products and many in the growth and developmental stage. This is not unlike the condition of computer science in the 1960s or biotechnology in the 1980s. Nanotechnology has been applied to the development of products and processes across many industries particularly over the past ten years. Products are now available in markets ranging from consumer products through medical products to plastics and coatings and electronics products. There have been various market reports estimating the scale of potential future value for products that are nanotechnology enabled. A report from Lux Research published in 2006 entitled The Nanotech Report 4th Edition, notes that nanotechnology was incorporated into more than $30 billion in manufactured goods in 2005. The projection is that in 2014, $2.6 trillion in manufactured goods will incorporate nanotechnology. Even if this is an over-estimate, it is clear that there is a vast market available for nanotechnology based products. It is extremely important to the UK economy that UK companies engaged in nanotechnology participate at each stage of the supply chain. While companies are moving speedily to develop further and more advanced products based on nanotechnology, they are becoming increasingly aware that there are many challenges to address. It was with this background that a Mini Innovation and Growth Team (Mini-IGT) was formed comprising members of the NanoKTN and the Materials KTN as the secretariat, together with members of the Chemistry Innovation KTN and the Sensors and Instrumentation KTN, to prepare a report on nanotechnology on behalf of UK industry. A questionnaire was sent to the members of the various KTNs to solicit feedback on their views on nanotechnology focussing on their commercial position and also their concerns and issues. While the UK Government has commissioned reports and provided responses over the past decade, in the field of nanotechnology, the UK has not articulated an overarching national strategy on nanotechnology that can rank alongside those from the likes of the US and Germany. It is intended that this report, with its unique industry led views on nanotechnology, together with other strategic documents, including the Nanoscale Technologies Strategy 2009-2012 produced by the Technology Str ategy Board, will provide a significant contribution to a future UK Government Strategy on Nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is the basis for many products that are in common use and is providing the capability to produce a very wide range of new products that will become commonplace in the near future. The UK, like many other countries, has invested heavily in nanotechnology and has considered, through a series of reports and Government responses, how to manage and fund nanotechnology developments. At the third meeting of the Ministerial Group on Nanotechnology it was agreed that a nanotechnology strategy should be developed for the UK. As part of the strategy development process, Lord Drayson launched an evidence gathering website on 7th July 2009. Alongside this, four Knowledge Transfer Networks (Nanotechnology, Materials, Chemistry Innovation and Sensors Instrumentation) with significant industrial interest in nanotechnology agreed that it was necessary for industry to contribute to policy development using the bottom up approach. It is intended that this report with its unique industry led views on nanotechnology will provide a significant contribution to a future overarching UK Government Strategy on Nanotechnology, alongside other input from inter alia the Technology Strategy Board and the Research Councils. In addition to the questionnaire, feedback was sought from industry at workshop discussions with invited industry leaders and others in the field of nanote

Analysis of Learning Styles and Theories

Analysis of Learning Styles and Theories Section A Part 1: Who I am as a learner? What is learning style? According to Honey and Mumfords learning style questionnaire (1992) learning is seen as a continuous cycle in which a person has a learning experience, reviews the experience, concludes from that experience and plans the next step. A persons preferences for one or more of the stages of the learning cycle translate into strengths and weaknesses of learning style. In experiential learning theory, the model of style is based on a theory of learning. The theory defines four phases in the process of learning from experience: concrete experience; reflective observation; abstract conceptualization; and active experimentation. Individual learning styles are defined by a persons reliance on these four learning modes. (Boyatzis and Kolb, 1995) Gagne (1984) says these strategies enable learners to choose at appropriate times the intellectual skills and declarative knowledge they will bring to bear on learning, remembering, and problem solving. 1. VARK Introduction of VARK: The VARK stands for Visual (V), Aural (A), Read/Write (R), and Kinesthetic (K). It is a tool for learner to analyze their learning style. According to the Fleming (2009) VARK is a questionnaire that provides users with a profile of their learning preferences. It is about a learners preferences for taking in and giving out information in a learning context. The purpose of VARK is to help learner to think about their learning style in multiple ways. It suggests some ideas for learner to know which learning methods are suitable for them and how they can learn effectively. However, the limitation of VARK is that questionnaire does not show anything about motivation. It only contributes to improve learning. Learners only can change their study methods based on their VARK results (Fleming, 2009). My learning style result of VARK is as follows: According to my VARK result, I have got nine marks in Aural. Visual, Read/ Write as well as Kinesthetic are all in seven marks. It shows that I am a multimodal learning style. I can learn from different learning styles and it implies that I have strong in Aural area. Aural learner learns by listening who likes to be provided with aural instructions. In fact, my result of the VARK is closes match to my own learning style as I often use different learning methods under different situations. For example, I prefer attend group discussions, lecture and tutorial. At school, I like to attend the lecture to lectern the teacher to explanation. In the final year project, I enjoy discuss with my group members and explain new idea to others. Also I follow my group leader instructions to find some useful data from the internet for our project. On the other hand, I also as a Visual style learner. Visual learner prefers demonstrations in their learning and can learn through descriptions. In my working experience, I work in Wellcome supermarket, my supervisor demonstrated that how to placed the goods on the shelves and told me all products in which area. I can easily get the meaning and memorize it because of leaving a strong impression in my mind. For the kinesthetic learner, I prefer experiencing things rather than only read the notes during the learning process. For example, I need to trials on my own when buying a new mobile phone, rather than reading the leaflet of the products. Finally, VARK result can indicate my learning styles. Sometimes I like practice actively, sometimes I prefer listening only. Thats why I have multimodal preferences. In fact, I have to pay more attention in different learning styles. VARK is very useful for helping me to know more about my learning preferences. 2. MBTI Introduction OF MBTI: The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) was developed by Katherine Cook Briggs and Isabel Briggs Myer. It based on the theories of psychologist Carl Jung (Morgan and Barbour, 2008). Hutchinson (1997) shows how personality indicators such as the MBTI can he used in a practical way to understand differences in how people behave and to assist in team building and communication in a business environment. The MBTI scales measure a preference for four dimensions: (Saggino, Cooper and Kline, 2001) Extraversion-Introversion Which represents the orienting toward the outer world of people and things or the inner world of concepts and ideas. Sensing-Intuition Which reflects the individuals preference for factual realistic or global possibilities perception. Thinking-Feeling Which represents arriving at judgments by impersonal and logical processes or by subjective processes. Judging-Perception The process of coming to a conclusion about something or becoming aware of something. In combination, the MBTI is a sixteen-type personality profile instrument. (Goby and Lewis, 2000) However, according to Coe (1992), he said that the MBTI has several limitations. First, it does not show any indication about peoples values and motivations. Second, the MBTI does not measure pathology. Third, the MBTI does not measure how well the preferred functions are performed. My MBTI result for my Personality: According to my MBTI results, the above result shows that my preferred style of MBTI is ESFJ and ESFP which are 72% and 66 % respectively. It shows the most dominant function is extrovert, sensing, as well as feeling. For the ESFJ, the most important preferences are Extraverted Feeling. This means I focus on building harmony in the working environment. I like to build rapport with people and create a positive atmosphere. I look after peoples welfare. Also I like to keep everybody happy and have a good relationship with others. I value other peoples contributions, seek to develop the role that others play, and invest a lot of effort in building positive relationships. I try to overcome differences of opinion and find ways in which people can agree. For the ESFP, the most important preferences are Extraverted Sensing. I bring things to fruition by getting things done, and getting them done now. I am very action-oriented, dealing with whatever tasks the current situation presents. I often spur others into action as well. I make use of your experience and utilize tools or processes of which I already have knowledge. I try to have an immediate impact on things, injecting a sense of urgency, and aiming to achieve clear goals and tangible results. Base on the result, MBTI helps me to understand the personality. I agree that I am an extravert person. As I have worked as Wellcome Supermarket, I found that building the positive atmosphere can improve the relationship within the company. I also like to build a good relationship with customers that I enjoy work into a happiness environment. Also I am a vice-president of my secondary schools alumni association. I like to share my study path with others. Besides that I also concern on what group members feeling rather than my feel and invest a lot of effort in building positive relationships. So I am a feeling person. As a sensing person, when I am doing assignments, I want to focus on the facts which help my working process. Also, I like to ask my classmates who had experienced those situations previously in order to make a better decision. Those two personality types (ESFJ and ESFP) are differing in Judging and Perception. This preference is about the process of coming to a conclusion about something or becoming aware of something. I also think the judging is my personality. I like to make a plan and follow the guideline to work within a time limit. When I am doing final year project, I hope myself and my team members follow our plan and to meet the requirement. 3. BELBIN Introduction of BELBIN The Belbin team-role inventory is a well-known and established measure for identification of individual team roles (Senior and Swailes, 1998). Belbins particular focus on the establishment of roles within a team, where the assumptions of duties and responsibilities depends on a measure of self-discovery combined with a perception of the needs of the team as a whole. Belbin identify 9 team roles in relation to different needs of a group including plant, resource investigator, co-coordinator, shaper, monitor evaluator, team worker, implementer, complete finisher and specialist. My BELBIN result for my Team Role: According to my Belbin report, the most preferred roles that I suited are team worker and specialists in which I scored about 80 and 100 respectively. Specialist means people who have the specific knowledge and skills to do their tasks. This type of people is enthusiastic in providing special knowledge and skills to accomplish the team goals. They will only contribute on only a limited front and dwell on specialized personal interest. They only consider their own specific area to come out a solution, so they cannot provide a wider perspective. For example, I am interested in computer. I prefer to do something about data analysis and search information from the internet. In final year project, I use my knowledge to analyze the research data and give the conclusion on that part. Also I provide technical support in the presentation. Team worker represents the people who are co-operative, mild, perceptive and diplomatic. They prefer to work with others and usually listen, builds and avert the friction within the team. They are indecisive in crunch situations. For example, I often listen to others instructions in my work. Also I need to cooperate with my colleagues to complete the works. 4. Summary To summarize, I believe these tests are quite reliable. According to the test results, I know and understand myself more. I am an extravert person who likes to talk with others and learn from different learning styles. I can cooperate with others and also concern their feeling. I provide my computer knowledge for people and give some advice for them. Therefore, these tests help me identify myself and let me know how to improve myself. It makes me think more and consider which job is suitable and interesting to me. If I want to be a leader, I need to learn more different styles and improve my weaknesses. It will be a great benefit to my future career. References Boyatzis, R. Kolb, D. (1995) From learning styles to learning skills: the executive skills profile, Journal of Managerial Psychology, 10(5), pp. 3-17 Boyle, G (1995) Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): Some Psychometric Limitations, Humanities Social Sciences papers, Bond University Briggs, K. and Myers, I. (2009) Free Personality Test: MMDI website, Available at: http://www.teamtechnology.co.uk/mmdi-re/mmdi-re.htm (Accessed 19th November 2009) Coe, C.K., (1992) The MBTI: potential uses and misuses in personnel administration, Available at: http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/343006-1.html (Accessed: 19th November 2009) Fleming, N. (2009), FAQ of VARK official website, Available at: http://www.vark-learn.com/english/page.asp?p=faq (Accessed: 19th November 2009) Goby, V. Lewis, J. (2000) Using Experiential Learning Theory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in Teaching Business Communication, Business Communication Quarterly, 63(3), pp. 39-48. Jackson, C. Lawty-Jones, M. (1996) Explaining the overlap between personality and learning styles, Journal of Personality and Individual Differences, 20, pp. 293-300. Lessem, R. Baruch, Y. (2000) Testing the SMT and Belbin Inventory in Top Management Teams, Leadership and Organization Development Journal, 21(1/2), pp.75-83 Morgan, A. Barbour, K. (2008) An initial study into the personality types of undergraduate business students. Proceedings of the Academy of Educational Leadership, 13(1), pp.33-38 Saggino, A. Cooper, C. Kline, P. (2001) A confirmatory factor analysis of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, Personality and Individual Differences, 30(1), pp. 3-9.

DIWALI -THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Essays -- essays research papers

Diwali rituals Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the important and widely spread holidays celebrated in India. It is a celebration of lights, and for many, it is truly a sensory experience; some families decorate their houses with all sorts of lights and open up to the neighbors, sharing their love and their food. Those celebrating Diwali spend time with family and friends. They perform religious ceremonies to bring in wealth and prosperity for a new year, cook and eat delicious food, design rangolis, light up their lives by lighting diyas (small earthen lamps), candles and sometimes, by lighting fireworks. Diwali is celebrated in honor of the lord Rama, who on this day returned from a forest exile. Diwali is actually the middle day in a five-day festival that rings in the Hindu New Year. For Diwali, I go to festivals and hold pooja at my house The five days of Diwali Diwali is the most important festival celebrated in India. Diwali or Deepawali means an array of lights. It is a festival of lights symbolizing victory of good over evil and the glory of light. Diwali is celebrated as the day that Lord Rama returned to Ayoda after defeating Ravana. Diwali also signifies Harvest Festival. Another legend is Naraksura, a monster who was a troublemaker to the gods. Lord Krishna and Satyabama killed the demon. Diwali is celebrated in five days. The first day of Diwali is called Dhanteras. The second day is called Narak Chatardasi. On this day Lord Krishna destroye...

William Blakes The Chimney Sweeper Essay -- William Blake Chimney Sw

William Blake’s The Chimney Sweeper   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  William Blake’s â€Å"The Chimney Sweeper† was mainly about the possibilities of both hope and faith. Although the poem’s connotation is that of a very dark and depressed nature, the religious imagery Blake uses indicates that the sweeps will have a brighter future in eternity.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In lines 4 – 8 when Blake writes, â€Å"There’s little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head, That curled like a lamb’s back, was shaved: so I said ‘Hush, Tom! never mind it, for when your head’s bare You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair.’ These lines symbolize faith in the biblical sense. Young Tom’s is like that of the sacrificial lamb of God and when the narrator tells Tom to stop crying because he knows that the soot can not longer spoil his white hair he, is saying to Tom, once he makes this sacrifice nothing else can hurt him. Blake is saying that if the children make the sacrifice of living out their lives here on Earth, no matter how dark and dismal their lives may seem at the time, they will be rewarded in heaven as long as they know the glory of God and trust in him.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is in lines 10 – 24 that the poem becomes one of hope. For when Blake writes â€Å"As Tom was a-sleeping, he had such a sight! That thousands of sweepers, Dick, Joe, Ned, and Jack, Were all of them locked up in coffins of black. And by came an Angel who had a bright key, And he opened the coffins and set them all free;† Blake’s words ring true of hope for the sw... William Blake's The Chimney Sweeper Essay -- William Blake Chimney Sw William Blake’s The Chimney Sweeper   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  William Blake’s â€Å"The Chimney Sweeper† was mainly about the possibilities of both hope and faith. Although the poem’s connotation is that of a very dark and depressed nature, the religious imagery Blake uses indicates that the sweeps will have a brighter future in eternity.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In lines 4 – 8 when Blake writes, â€Å"There’s little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head, That curled like a lamb’s back, was shaved: so I said ‘Hush, Tom! never mind it, for when your head’s bare You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair.’ These lines symbolize faith in the biblical sense. Young Tom’s is like that of the sacrificial lamb of God and when the narrator tells Tom to stop crying because he knows that the soot can not longer spoil his white hair he, is saying to Tom, once he makes this sacrifice nothing else can hurt him. Blake is saying that if the children make the sacrifice of living out their lives here on Earth, no matter how dark and dismal their lives may seem at the time, they will be rewarded in heaven as long as they know the glory of God and trust in him.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is in lines 10 – 24 that the poem becomes one of hope. For when Blake writes â€Å"As Tom was a-sleeping, he had such a sight! That thousands of sweepers, Dick, Joe, Ned, and Jack, Were all of them locked up in coffins of black. And by came an Angel who had a bright key, And he opened the coffins and set them all free;† Blake’s words ring true of hope for the sw...

Identity and Belonging Context Essay Essay

A strong sense of identity & belonging are vital for personal happiness. Intro; Imagine youre a child on a playground who is bullied. You feel rejected and left out. At home with your family you are comforted and warm, and you are able to play games and do what you like, be yourself. Although you do not feel as though you belong at school, you feel as though you belong. This makes you happy. You can be yourself and your identity is not lost when you are at home. Some could argue that this is personal happiness. However it could be stated that because you have not got a strong sense of a identity in the outside world, it is difficult to understand your public identity, therefore perhaps not even have one. Some have multiple identities for different communites in their lives. Humans are not meant to belong to every group there is, our likes and dislikes form our identity and who were are. In saying this, it is important to have a strong sense of who you are and where you belong, regard less of who this is and where this person belongs. Belonging to multiple groups means sometimes changing your identity for these groups. You might be the confident coach of a soccer team, but also the quiet and demure listener of a book reading evry week. Identity is formed around what a person is like. gaga. To not understand oneself adds difficulty in finding where you belong. Perfect chinese children; ‘ Erica doesn’t speak to [her] for the rest of the day. Without knowing why, [she is] ashamed’. Vanessa is ashamed because Erica saw her as resembling the Australians more than an Asian, but she doesn’t understand when she is just as ridiculed as Erica is. This puts Vanessa in a confusing and upsetting place, not knowing who she is and who she belongs with. She doesn’t understand if she is Asian or aussie, and in her world those seem to be the only two places to fit in. If you don’t have an identity, how are you supposed to know where you belong? Youre identity is like a key to your own happiness. If you know who you are, and what you like or don’t like, you know where you belong. An identity crisis can cause you to feel lost and unknown

Narrative essay on African American people

The issue on African-American exemplifies the problem on racism / racial discrimination. Among the whites, the African-American class comprises the minority group in United States of America. In history, the Civil War was caused by disagreement of Confederates States of America to free African-American slaves. The fear to African-Americans excluded them in military. After the Civil War, the slavery of African-American people was still prevalent. African-American people were still treated as slaves, they do not have equal right as the whites, and abused by the larger groups in almost all American societies. (Until today) Although laws pertaining for equal rights to all citizens of America were instigated, racial discrimination is implied / seen in United States (Franklin, J. H. and A. A. Moss, Jr., http://www.randomhouse.com/acmart/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780375406713). Education The effect of racial discrimination causes separation / segregation in schools in the south and in the north of America. In United States, two worlds were created between the white society and black community. The culture, customs, practices, beliefs between the two races can not meet / come across. The American-Africans were excluded in the mainstream of American societies. Conversely, there were cases where African-Americans were not allowed to be educated. Bylaws of the society issue a criminal case to any educating African-American (before). Unequal education between the whites and American-Africans arises. The public schools issue racial discrimination over American-Africans. In any cases, American-Africans were given little attention when it comes to consultation (between black students and teachers), resources (books and school supplies), and concerns of teachers. Despite of the separation between the whites and American-Africans education, American-Africans focus on the church as center in their educational and political living. Today, the bilingual education helps American-Africans to respect their own culture, tradition, beliefs, and customs. American-Africans do have equal rights to the system they wanted to be educated. The bilingual education enhances the student’s capability in studying since American-Africans can educate in their own languages / lingo. Community The community easily identifies slaves with regards to the appearance, color, and language of African-Americans. Early in the history, African-Americans were castigated since they were in greater supply. Specifically, women were abused, they were treated as animals, and sex slavery was abundant in United States. The African-Americans children were automatically become slaves. The whites implemented laws prohibiting African-Americans to owned guns, create business, and possess equal rights to the community. The African-Americans comprises a portion in the community. These people are inapt in American societies. The whites feel superior, dominance, authority to the black community. In a particular community in United States, the whites prefer to favor the whites instead of an African-American. A whites tend to gives more importance to a white person rather than help a poor African-American. In any community, a dominant class would be authoritative, racist, abused the minority. It is actually natural / normal to any community / nation / society. In a white’s perspective, they hated blacks. They think that blacks were criminals, without education, and belong to lower classes of the society. The white community discriminates those blacks. In any situations, the hospital gives first priority to a white patient, a (white) employer gives favor to a white applicant, and the white community would only hear a white’s complaint. Family Slavery causes division / separation of African-American families. Because the blacks were given a monetary value, they were forced to work as slaves. Unfair employment was given to the African-Americans. The society looks at an African-American family inferior to the social order of United States. Society The society directs to how its environment will works. Through the globe, slave trade is seen between two (strong) nations. Muslims were able to exchange African slaves. In the societal scheme of the whites, they enslaved African-Americans. The whites were able to utilized African-Americans in their farms, and other business works (Franklin, J. H. and A. A. Moss, Jr., http://www.randomhouse.com/acmart/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780375406713). Nevertheless, the whites gave the African-Americans low degree of employment (blue-collar job). The whites worry to the destabilization in their economic expansion and hierarchy. African-Americans were the ones involved in harvesting crops, security, peon, and soiled works. The slave trade in United States produced tobacco, cotton, and sugar. In the last 100 years, the high mortality rate and abused of African-Americans open an opportunity for a social change. Although there are free African-Americans, they were controlled in the society. In history, slaves purchased their own freedom. In the political system of the United States, African-Americans could vote. They were not given the right to take part in the election since they were included in the lower classes. Threats exist to exclude African-African from voting. As much as they couldn’t do businesses, they also prohibited to own any property. The whites wanted to contain and continue supremacy over African-Americans. No African-Americans can complaint to any crimes done by the whites. In the movie Crash, there was an incident where an African-American woman was molested by a cop (white), her husband wasn’t able to charge a court case since he was an African-American. Miscegenation (interracial marriage) was not allowed by the society. Such cases would issue a lawsuit and incarceration of any African-American. The society enforced segregation on hotels, buses (transportation), theaters, and restaurants between the whites and African-Americans. The society does not recognize talents, music, intelligence, and capability of blacks. Summary In any develop nation, two races creates a chaotic situation of education, community, culture, customs, and beliefs. Abused and mistreatment of the minority groups is prevalent in these societies. African-Americans suffer from racial discrimination; unemployment, inability to take part in the elections, isolation of education, and abused on the rights of African-Americans as a citizen of the United States. Until today, African-Americans were given the right to vote, fair employment, inclusion in military forces, and given important position in the government. People can’t do away with the differences in appearances, culture, and beliefs, but, people can meet halfway in order to attain equality. Work Cited Franklin, J. H. and A. A. Moss, Jr. From Slavery to Freedom A History of African Americans (8th Edition). Random House, Inc. 2004. URL http://www.randomhouse.com/acmart/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780375406713. Retrieved October 4, 2007.

Information Privacy Security: TJX Data Breach Crisis and Lessons

Introduction Protecting the privacy of consumer personal information continues to pose significant challenges for organisations. The complexity is aggravated by consumers’ vulnerability that comes about when they are unable to control the usage of personal information they share with business organisations. Given the importance of information privacy, there has been a host of privacy research focusing on the organisational decisions regarding the use and reuse of consumer personal information (Schwartz, 2009; Greenaway and Chan, 2005). Culnan et al (2008) observes that the emerging decentralisation of technology environment has posed additional privacy challenge: data breaches. Currently, it is only the United States that requires organisations to give formal notice in the event of data breach (Morley, 2014). European Union and its member countries are yet to establish any legal requirements for organisations to notify consumers of any data breach, thereby leaving such eventuality at the f ate of an organisation’s management. Without any notification laws, data breaches remain private and under the discretion of the affected organization. Therefore, this paper focuses on one of the most prominent data security breaches that the world has ever witnessed: TJX data privacy breach crisis, in the context of, ethical principles and theories, legal, professional and social issues. . The Information Privacy Concept According to Xu et al. (2008), the concept of information privacy is multidimensional in nature and is largely dependent on the context as well as personal experiences. Although others see information privacy as full of definition ambiguity (Schwartz, 2009), others have defined consumer personal information as being made up of data generated when consumers conduct transactions. The problems of privacy often emerge from how this consumer information is stored, analysed, used, or shared (FTC, 2008). Information on how to address problems related to privacy management is limited due to minimal research in the area, particularly those issues dealing with management responsibilities on social issues. For example, there is limited research on how organisations should deal with consumers’ personal identifiable information, the role of managers in the protecting the consumer data and the moral duty of every party involved in the handling or accessing consumer data. Overview of TJX Data Breach TJX is a US-based off-price retailer operating over 2,400 stores in various countries and regions including US, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Europe. In the network of stores, the retailer collects and store customer information that would authorize purchases via payment cards, personal cheques , and processing of merchandise returned without a receipt. This violated the legal requirement that prohibits any business from retaining sensitive consumer card information, including the magnetic strips on credit cards (Smedinghoff and Hamady, 2008). In addition, the breach exposed TJX’s failure to observe basic ethical and professional principles. The revelation emerged when in 2007 TJX issued a press release stating that criminals had intruded their data system and stolen over 45 million consumers’ card information within a period of 18 months (FTC, 2008). Although the TJX filed Form 8-K disclosure statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission as required by the law, the company was widely held to be at fault for the breach. The company was accused of breaching the law by storing unencrypted sensitive consumer information, for their failure to limit unauthorised access to the massive data via their wireless network, and the inability to establish adequate security measures within its networks among other issues (FTC, 2008). The Legal and social Issues in the TJX Data Breach The current global data protection guideline is based on the Fair Information Practices (FIPs), which deal with individual rights and organisational responsibilities with regard to management of consumer data (Morley, 2014). In other words, how responsibly the data is used is a pointer to the social expectations with regards to consumer data use. FIPs attempts to put a certain level of balance between the competing business and individual interests in terms of legitimate use of personal information, which serves as the foundation for privacy laws and industry-specific regulatory programmes. In this respect, FIPs lays the foundation for organisations on how to be socially responsible in dealing with privacy issues. On the other hand, the adoption of these guidelines lays the foundations for evaluation by the external audiences on an organisation’s degree of responsiveness (Allen, 2011). There is a general consensus that responsible data management practice is paramount in every organisation (Morley, 2014). However, there is no consensus about how the implementation of individual principles should be carried out. Schwartz (2009, p.1) observes that in most parts of the world, â€Å"fair information practices are implemented through omnibus laws.† Curiously, the United States has no comprehensive laws that compel organisations to observe fair information practice, but instead developed sectoral laws and regulations to consumer privacy protection with laws being enacted in response to issues arising from specific industries. The challenge that comes with this approach is that there is uneven practice in terms of operations and implementations. Moreover, the TJX issue exposed some glaring weaknesses in the implementation of FIP laws and regulations based on the principles of notice, choice, access, security, and sanctions for noncompliance (Culnan, et al., 2008). The effectiveness of data privacy management for organisations that collect, store, and use consumer personal data is curtailed by other issues including unclear law or policy, varied jurisdictions, and differences in data type. The challenge may be further aggravated by conflicting regional or state laws (Allen, 2011). The breaches in the TJX case involved unauthorised access to consumer personal information, which resulted in a variety of risks towards consumer personal information. Nevertheless, there is a general agreement within the statutory laws and regulations that every organisation should ensure there is duty of care with regards to information they collect and store based on consumer’s vulnerability and the actual possibility of harm (Allen, 2011). Allen (2011) observes that although organisations that comply with government regulations are considered legitimate, and readily accepted by their external environment, including partners, this milestone is not easily achievable given the above challenges. For example, the term ‘reasonable procedure†™ as stated in most sectoral data protection regulations does not specify what is actually ‘reasonable’, which may vary depending on the nature and size of the organisation, the types of information it captures and stores, the security equipments and tools in the possession of the organisation, and the nature of risk at display. There has been criticism in regards to the prevailing laws and regulations because they are seen as reactive and outdated at the time when they are enacted (Morley, 2014). The other complaint is that most of privacy violation issues are only detected after the damage is done, thus doing little to reverse the loss on the affected consumers. The Moral Issues and Responsibilities Information ethics is based on the collection, use, and management of information (Morley, 2014). As technology becomes increasingly complex, it is evident that ethical problems related to these developments continue to increase. However, the normative theories (stockholder, stakeholder, and social contracts) used to address the prevailing challenges remain less developed, with many institutions only relying on bare legal minimum requirements in relation to consumer data protection (Culnan, et al., 2008). Morley (2014) observes that these theories are distinct and incompatible with regards to the obligations of a business person. Taking into consideration the large social and financial impact of privacy breach as observed in the TJX case, there are mainly two aspects of moral issues that are central to the data privacy: vulnerability and harm avoidance. The concept of vulnerability highlights most of society’s moral intuitions, with the inherent scenario where one party is at disadvantage with regard to the other party in terms of data collection and use. This situation emerged because one party lacked the capacity to control the information givento the other party. Solove (2007) observed that the root cause of large-scale privacy invasions is embedded inthe lack of information control by the giver. In the case of TJX, consumers suffered outright vulnerability, although they expected TJX to protect their card information with a proper mechanism in place. On the other hand, avoiding harm involves the need for managers to avoid using consumer data to harm the vulnerable consumer socially and financially. Many have argued that it is the responsibility of the managers to take a minimum moral standing to ensure no harm is done in the treatment of consumer information (Culnan, et al., 2008). Conclusion Information privacy is an important issue in the modern business environment. In order to protect consumer information, managers must learn to strike a balance between consumer privacy and business interests by constantly adhering to the principle of protecting the vulnerable consumer and not causing harm to them through their personal information. It is important to note that TJX caused harm when their consumer personal data were stolen by a third party intruder. Although TJX violated industry rules, it is more significant to highlight that the company’s failure to observe moral responsibility in the protection of consumer data should be viewed as more detrimental to the company. Businesses are expected to follow basic ethical principles in managing business activities. While we can argue that the TJX data breach saga received the attention because of the United State’s comprehensive formal notice requirements within the laws on privacy data management, it is also appa rent that personal data protection is beyond the laws and regulations and requires ethical foundations within the organisations. The need to integrate ethical reasoning into the privacy programmes of every organisation is paramount (Xu et al., 2008). We can argue that integrating moral responsibility within organisations will not only establish ethical standards for the organisations, but is growingly becoming a necessity considering the challenges surrounding the implementation of legal requirements. Furthermore, considering that consumers are vulnerable and are unable to control how businesses use their personal information, it is the moral responsibilities of every organisation to go beyond bare minimum legal compliance. That is, each organisation needs to take reasonable precaution when handling consumer data and ensure no harm is caused with this kind of data. References Allen, A. (2011). Unpopular Privacy: What Must We HideOxford: Oxford University Press. Culnan, M. J., Foxman, E. R., and Ray, A. W. (2008). â€Å"Why ITExecutives Should Help Employees Secure Their Home Com- puters,† MIS Quarterly Executive (7:1), March, pp. 49-55. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). (2008). â€Å"Press Release: Agency Announces Settlement of Separate Actions Against Retailer TJX, and Data Brokers Reed Elsevier and Seisint for Failing to Provide Adequate Security for Consumers’ Data,† March 27(available at http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/03/datasec.shtm; accessed November 29, 2014). Greenaway, K. E., and Chan, Y. E. (2005). â€Å"Theoretical Explana-tions of Firms’ Information Privacy Behaviors,† Journal of the Association for Information Systems (6:6), pp. 171-198. Morley, D. (2014). Understanding Computers in a Changing Society. Chicago: Cengage Learning. Schwartz, M. (2009). â€Å"Europe Debates Mandatory Data Breach Notifications.† The Privacy Advisor (9:2), p. 1. Smedinghoff, T. J., and Hamady, L. E. (2008). â€Å"New State Regula-tions Signal Significant Expansion of Corporate Data SecurityObligations,† BNA Privacy and Security Law Report (7), October 20, p. 1518. Solove, D. (2007). â€Å"The New Vulnerability: Data Security andPersonal Information,† in Securing Privacy in the Internet Age, A. Chander, L. Gelman, and M. J. Radin (eds.), Palo Alto, CA: Stanford University Press, pp. 111-136. Xu, H., Dinev, T., Smith, H. J., and Hart, P. (2008). â€Å"Examining the Formation of Individual’s Privacy Concerns: Toward an Integra-tive View,† in Proceedings of the 29th International Conference on Information Systems, Paris (available at http://aisel.aisnet.org/icis2008/6; accessed October 29, 2014).