Standard vs. Automatic Compare & Contrast Essay

Jacob Phaneuf 10-20-12 Eng 101 (Compare & Contrast) When buying a new car, many people do not stop to think about what kind of transmission that they would like. While most cars today come in automatic versions, there are also five and six speed standard transmissions available on most car models. While certain people may not even know how to drive a standard transmission, it is not the popular choice, but for the people who enjoy using both feet to drive there is always the option.While most cars on the road today are automatics there are still ups and downs to both transmissions, standards may last longer, but automatics are easier to use and more convenient. Standards are usually sportier then the everyday persons automatic car, but they can also save on gas, and can be a little quicker compared to the same exact same automatic transmission model. While driving a standard can be a nightmare for some, others enjoy this feeling very much.Being able to drive with two feet is a very o dd thing to be able to get used to, and also having a third pedal. This added third pedal is called a clutch, and must be pressed every time the vehicle switches gears, where as in a automatic the transmissions switches gears unnoticeably and requires no action from the driver. While having the control to be able to tell a vehicle what gear to go into when ever you want too, gives the car a much sportier feel, but also makes the vehicle a lot more fun to drive and also a little quicker off the start.Driving a standard is only for certain people though, while to others it may seem easy, learning to drive a standard can be a difficult task and if not done right can result in stalling or even permanent car damages. Having many things to remember to do while driving a car can be a frustrating thing to have to do, but thankfully there are automatic transmissions, which has many more conveniences and is much easier to use and drive then a standard car.Driving an automatic requires only on e-foot operation and a computer does all the gear switching electronically. Automatics are the most popular choice when purchasing a car, because they are so simple, easy, and can also be fun to drive. While driving a standard can be a lot more fun, it can also be a lot more stressful considering there are things to always be aware of. Staling is something that is very easy to do and can happen for a few reasons, the clutch was released too quickly, or the transmission was left in gear when the clutch was removed.Also traffic can be a very stressfully thing to deal with in a standard because of the constant use of two feet moving every time the car must move forward. Hills can also be a major challenge for even the most experienced standard transmission drivers. When on a hill, the vehicle will be able to roll backwards until the driver has successfully engaged first gear, but stalling is still a great possibility and can cause big problems for an inexperienced driver.When it comes to choosing the right transmission, be sure you will be able to drive the vehicle the proper way, if not then at least have a person available to teach the proper ways. While both transmissions are great ways to drive, one driver may prefer one over the other, they both drive differences but will both get you to the same place. The only major difference to remember is that a standard transmission can be a lot more work, and the driver has to be ready to deal with the frustrations of a standard transmission. Happy driving!

Higher Education and the American Dream: Success and Its Discontents Essay

Is   College necessary? Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is true that a college may favor or not favor some victims. This means that it is not an assurance if you complete your college level you get a white collar job. This is not the case. However, it will depend on how one takes his/her time to associate with working class person and also to give voluntary service to the companies and government corporation. According to Baker it is very important for the child to attend basic education in the age of six years, he says that the child during this age is being prepared psychologically on how to move on to the next academic level. Additionally, Baker brings out another crucial sense why it is important to go to the college after graduating the high school. Baker says that colleges are preparing a student not only to get well-paying job but also, on how as a student one can business oriented person. Very important issue here is that a college graduate student can be compared with primary or hig h school student in terms of thinking capacity.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   College is not worth some time for some people. Meaning that in a society some people tend to have very little education but, their way of living is luxurious. However, this will depend on one’s fortune. Another factor that might make people look down to the college is family background(Charles chpt8). Some families are very rich such that they do not push their kids to go for further studies but, rather after completing their high school education they are given capital to start their own business or even they inherit some of their family business. So, college may not be very important to such people because the aim of going for higher education is only to have good living standards. Therefore, if one gets a good amount of dollars that can sustain him/her then there is no need to go to college.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the past century, education was not highly valued in many countries. This was because many people had inherited big wealth from their forefathers. Therefore, they tend to depend on those properties for their upkeep, unlike this 21st century where is only depends on how one struggles to be able to sustain himself. In the past century, technology had not improved like the this century thus people had limited resource in education, for instance, less developed countries(Lazerson chpt12). Hence, the aim of going to colleges was not there. However, going to college to further studies is a great idea in order to increase knowledge and be conversant with the current trend on technology that is not taught in primary and high school level. In conclusion, college education is very important to the graduates. It is observed that graduates are not enrolled to colleges in order to secure themselves or to go for well-paying job, but they do so in order to be civilized. They are also equipped with knowledge that helps them to run their own business. In fact, college education has a lot of benefits. Finally, it is wise to be a college graduate rather than having basic education (primary and high school). References Lazerson, Marvin. Higher Education and the American Dream: Success and Its Discontents. Budapest: Central European University Press, edited 2014.print. McGuire, Charles, Diana Abitz, and Patrick Dobson. The Best Advice Ever for Teachers. Kansas City: Andrews McMeel Pub, edited 2014. Internet resource. Source document

Nicu Nursing Care Plan

A  Neonatal Intensive Care Unit  (NICU) is an  intensive care unit  specializing in the care of ill or  premature  newborn  infants. Neonates who need to go to the unit are often admitted within the first 24 hours after birth. Newborns may be sent to the NICU if: †¢ they're born  prematurely †¢ difficulties occur during their delivery †¢ they show signs of a problem in the first few days of life (sepsis/infection, congenital defects, cardiac / respiratory abnormalities, low birth weight) NICU EQUIPMENT: †¢ BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR  may be a smaller version of the blood pressure cuff used  on older children and adults.Or  an  ARTERIAL CATHETER  (tiny tube inserted in an artery) may be used to monitor blood pressure. †¢ CARDIORESPIRATORY MONITOR  keeps track of the baby’s heartbeat and breathing †¢ CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine  delivers air or oxygen through tubes in the nostrils. It uses low, contin uous pressure to keep the lungs inflated. †¢ ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE (ETT)   used with a respirator or ventilator to send air directly to the lungs. †¢ FEEDING TUBE (ALSO CALLED A GAVAGE TUBE) †¢ INCUBATOR used when newborn is relatively stable but still premature or requiring intravenous fluids or other special attention.The incubator keeps the newborn warm with moistened air in a clean environment, and helps to protect the baby from noise, drafts, infection, and excess handling †¢ INTRAVENOUS LINE (IV) †¢ PERIPHERALLY INSERTED CENTRAL CATHETER (PICC) OR A PERCUTANEOUS CENTRAL VENOUS CATHETER (PCVC)  may be inserted in a central (large) vein. This catheter is used to give the fluids, nutrition, and medication. †¢ PHOTOTHERAPY LIGHTS, OR â€Å"BILI LIGHTS,† are used when neonates have jaundice †¢ PULSE OXIMETER  measures the level of oxygen in the baby’s blood.It’s attached to the skin with a sensor taped to the baby’s h and or foot. It works by shining a light through the baby’s hand or foot RADIANT WARMERS used for very unstable or extremely premature newborns †¢ RESPIRATOR OR VENTILATOR   used to help the baby breathe. These machines are attached to an ETT. †¢ TEMPERATURE PROBE †¢ UMBILICAL ARTERIAL CATHETER (UAC) OR UMBILICAL VENOUS CATHETER (UVC)- catheter is placed in the artery or vein at the stump of the umbilical cord. It’s used to give the medications, fluids, and nutrition. It’s also used to draw blood for lab tests. WEIGHING SCALE COMMON NICU TESTS: †¢ help determine the neonate’s problems and how they should be treated †¢ monitor newborn’s progress. If the neonate needs a major test, the doctor will ask the parents or legal guardian to sign a consent form before the test is done. BLOOD TESTS-provide crucial information on the potential and present problems of the neonate †¢ Bilirubin levels, blood sugar, blood chemistry, electrolytes, CBC, blood C/S, blood gas COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CAT OR CT SCAN)-produce a more precise image of tissue than an X-ray or ultrasound examination.ECHOCARDIOGRAM- detects structural problems (heart defects) and problems with how the heart works. HEARING TEST-A tiny earphone will be placed in her ear to deliver sound. Small sensors, which are taped to the baby's head, will relay information to a machine that measures the electrical activity in her brain in response to sound. MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)-The MRI gives a more detailed view than a CT scan NEWBORN SCREENING TEST- tests babies for serious hereditary disorders.RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY (ROP) EXAMINATION-This test usually is done for newborns born at or before 28 weeks of gestation or weighing less than 1,500 grams (3 1/3 pounds). The test is generally performed about 4 to 6 weeks after birth, or when your newborn reaches 31 to 33 weeks gestational age (weeks since the mother's last menstrual period). ULTRASO UND-routine test to diagnose bleeding in the brain. URINE TESTS- determine how well the kidneys are functioning, and whether neonate has an infection.WEIGHING-routine exam, especially for premature and low birth weight newborns X-RAYS- provide pictures of neonate’s lungs and other internal organs. NURSING CARE PLAN: 1. Hyperthermia NDx:  Hyperthermia related to inflammatory process/ hypermetabolic state as evidenced by an increase in body temperature, warm skin and tachycardia 2. Fluid Volume Deficit NDx:  Fluid volume deficit related to failure of regulatory mechanism |Bucayu, Michael | |Cabulay, Lei-Ann Jessica | |Rodriguez, Kristel Angela | |Talosig, Janica Marie | Nicu Nursing Care Plan A  Neonatal Intensive Care Unit  (NICU) is an  intensive care unit  specializing in the care of ill or  premature  newborn  infants. Neonates who need to go to the unit are often admitted within the first 24 hours after birth. Newborns may be sent to the NICU if: †¢ they're born  prematurely †¢ difficulties occur during their delivery †¢ they show signs of a problem in the first few days of life (sepsis/infection, congenital defects, cardiac / respiratory abnormalities, low birth weight) NICU EQUIPMENT: †¢ BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR  may be a smaller version of the blood pressure cuff used  on older children and adults.Or  an  ARTERIAL CATHETER  (tiny tube inserted in an artery) may be used to monitor blood pressure. †¢ CARDIORESPIRATORY MONITOR  keeps track of the baby’s heartbeat and breathing †¢ CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine  delivers air or oxygen through tubes in the nostrils. It uses low, contin uous pressure to keep the lungs inflated. †¢ ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE (ETT)   used with a respirator or ventilator to send air directly to the lungs. †¢ FEEDING TUBE (ALSO CALLED A GAVAGE TUBE) †¢ INCUBATOR used when newborn is relatively stable but still premature or requiring intravenous fluids or other special attention.The incubator keeps the newborn warm with moistened air in a clean environment, and helps to protect the baby from noise, drafts, infection, and excess handling †¢ INTRAVENOUS LINE (IV) †¢ PERIPHERALLY INSERTED CENTRAL CATHETER (PICC) OR A PERCUTANEOUS CENTRAL VENOUS CATHETER (PCVC)  may be inserted in a central (large) vein. This catheter is used to give the fluids, nutrition, and medication. †¢ PHOTOTHERAPY LIGHTS, OR â€Å"BILI LIGHTS,† are used when neonates have jaundice †¢ PULSE OXIMETER  measures the level of oxygen in the baby’s blood.It’s attached to the skin with a sensor taped to the baby’s h and or foot. It works by shining a light through the baby’s hand or foot RADIANT WARMERS used for very unstable or extremely premature newborns †¢ RESPIRATOR OR VENTILATOR   used to help the baby breathe. These machines are attached to an ETT. †¢ TEMPERATURE PROBE †¢ UMBILICAL ARTERIAL CATHETER (UAC) OR UMBILICAL VENOUS CATHETER (UVC)- catheter is placed in the artery or vein at the stump of the umbilical cord. It’s used to give the medications, fluids, and nutrition. It’s also used to draw blood for lab tests. WEIGHING SCALE COMMON NICU TESTS: †¢ help determine the neonate’s problems and how they should be treated †¢ monitor newborn’s progress. If the neonate needs a major test, the doctor will ask the parents or legal guardian to sign a consent form before the test is done. BLOOD TESTS-provide crucial information on the potential and present problems of the neonate †¢ Bilirubin levels, blood sugar, blood chemistry, electrolytes, CBC, blood C/S, blood gas COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CAT OR CT SCAN)-produce a more precise image of tissue than an X-ray or ultrasound examination.ECHOCARDIOGRAM- detects structural problems (heart defects) and problems with how the heart works. HEARING TEST-A tiny earphone will be placed in her ear to deliver sound. Small sensors, which are taped to the baby's head, will relay information to a machine that measures the electrical activity in her brain in response to sound. MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)-The MRI gives a more detailed view than a CT scan NEWBORN SCREENING TEST- tests babies for serious hereditary disorders.RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY (ROP) EXAMINATION-This test usually is done for newborns born at or before 28 weeks of gestation or weighing less than 1,500 grams (3 1/3 pounds). The test is generally performed about 4 to 6 weeks after birth, or when your newborn reaches 31 to 33 weeks gestational age (weeks since the mother's last menstrual period). ULTRASO UND-routine test to diagnose bleeding in the brain. URINE TESTS- determine how well the kidneys are functioning, and whether neonate has an infection.WEIGHING-routine exam, especially for premature and low birth weight newborns X-RAYS- provide pictures of neonate’s lungs and other internal organs. NURSING CARE PLAN: 1. Hyperthermia NDx:  Hyperthermia related to inflammatory process/ hypermetabolic state as evidenced by an increase in body temperature, warm skin and tachycardia 2. Fluid Volume Deficit NDx:  Fluid volume deficit related to failure of regulatory mechanism |Bucayu, Michael | |Cabulay, Lei-Ann Jessica | |Rodriguez, Kristel Angela | |Talosig, Janica Marie |

Paper 2 Health Pamphlet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Paper 2 Health Pamphlet - Essay Example AIDS has no definite cure and the world community has only been able to reduce its spread and/or reducing its effect rate on a victim already infected. For this reason, HIV/AIDS has been described as a worldwide disaster. According to National Institute of Health (NIH) (2011), as an example, more than one million US citizens live with HIV/AIDS so far. Worse still, AIDS is one of the leading killer diseases of the world (NIH, 2011). Since the disease can be controlled both medically and morally, it becomes important to let different societies know of its nature. HIV/AIDS symptoms AIDS is more of a health condition than a disease – it only destroys the immune system – and it is difficult to tell recently infected people from healthy ones. However, victims start progressively becoming weak as time goes by (NIH, 2011). Similarly, the victim’s body becomes vulnerable to most human diseases. Sooner, the victim starts getting various illnesses that do not heal easily du e to the weakened immune system. As the disease advances, each illness is manifested by distinct symptoms. In general, according to NIH (2011), early likely symptoms (2-3 months after infection) include headache, fever, tiredness and enlargement of lymph nodes around the neck and groin areas while later symptoms (4 months and more) include: speedy weight loss; constant fever; constant tiredness; prolonged and pronounced lymph glands swellings in neck, armpits and groin; constant diarrhea; sores around anus, genitals and mouth; pneumonia; blotches around major orifices; loss of memory; stress; and depression among various other neurologic disorders. Risk factors The HIV virus is found in four kinds of body fluids: semen, blood, vaginal fluid and breast milk. Activities that lead to direct contact with these fluids are the risk factors. They include but not limited to: engaging sex with multiple partners or with strangers without protection; recklessly sharing of intravenous injection equipment; having other sexually transmitted infections (for example, genital herpes, gonorrhea and syphilis among others); having illnesses such as tuberculosis and hepatitis; prostitution; and unknowingly passing HIV from mother to fetus, during birth or during breastfeeding. It is important to note that HIV virus cannot survive for too long outside the body (it is a parasite in living body cells only) and that any other activity that does not result in direct contact with infected body fluids named above cannot lead to infection at all (NIH, 2011). Quality of life Often, AIDS is mistakenly taken as a bad omen in many societies. HIV victims tend to give up their dignity and thus they mostly suffer from depression, have low self esteem, and, of course, their health condition deteriorates. This leads to poor quality of life at personal level and low life expectancy in general. However, although AIDS is an incurable condition, there are several mechanisms that are used today to redu ce AIDS effects so as to lengthen life of the victims and/or to stop the HIV spreading. These include: advising victims and their caregivers on the right diet; health education for the public awareness; use of medication such as antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) (ARVs suppress the number and activity of HIV viruses in the body); and social motivation. With proper

Rhetorical Analysis of No Country for Old Men as a Phychological Essay

Rhetorical Analysis of No Country for Old Men as a Phychological Thriller - Essay Example The idea of killing is familiar to all of the main characters with little to no moral center. The novel is existentialist in its discussion of these crimes, creating no real moral or justice and abandoning the idea of resolution to the existence of the socio-path. He comes and he goes, creating a wake of resolutions when the lives of those he passes are ended. The resolution to his existence is not there, however, which causes many reviewers to take pause. In the Cormac McCarthy novel No Country for Old Men uses symbols of killing, innocence, and a post-apocalyptic idea of morality in which America and the wars of the later 20th century have left people flat and cold, the meaning of life lost in an existential fog. In the opening passage of No Country for Old Men, Cormac McCarthy paints a chilling picture of what it means to be a killer. The main character, Sheriff Ed Tom Bell, relates a story of someone he had arrested who had been given the death penalty for a crime that most peopl e thought to be a crime of passion. A nineteen year old boy was dating a fourteen year old girl and had killed her. When he visits, the boy tells him that he had always wanted to kill someone and he had chosen to kill her, not been driven to it by some emotion he could not control. The passage goes on to describe his confession where he admits that he liked the feeling of killing and if he could do it again, he would do it. With this anecdotal tale, McCarthy begins the journey of Bell through a psychological thriller that shifts between soulless men and innocents who do not have a clue about the evil that men will do to each other. The book can be seen as a representation of the gothic Romance thriller with a center of evil through which the rest of the action takes place in psychologically driven tension. Garret calls the moment in which the other characters face the evil in the story as the recognition scene, embedding it into the psychology of evil. In this moment, the benign cha racter sees that they are facing evil and in that moment know their fate which had not been clear to them before this point. One difference that McCarthy places in his work, however, is that the world is relatively flat and without great peaks and valleys of emotion. It is a deconstruction of the metaphysical presence that the character that represents evil, Anton Chigurh, establishes through a lack of thrill despite being a part of what should be a thriller. It is not that the novel does not thrill. What it does not do is feed the reader the emotions associated with the events in the story. Therefore, as Chigurh acts he is even more horrifying because of the dispassionate tone that is related through his series of murders. Before page ten Chigurh has killed to police officers, the first in a struggle after which he calmly does what he needs to in order to quietly escape a police station. The second is even less emotional as he simply steps outside of the car and uses his pressurize d air in which to put a hole in the head of the officer. It is clean, precise and practiced. Chigurh is a man with no soul, one very similar to the one that Bell has described after meeting with the boy before his execution – but Chugurh has no emotions about his work and barely registers curiosity at times (McCarthy 1-7). The comparison made between Moss and

Coral bleaching Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Coral bleaching - Essay Example The coral bleaching was first noticed in the 1980’s and since then the reef has been experiencing frequent and repetitive mass bleaching. Though salinity has been effectively prominent, there is also presence of toxic chemicals, UV radiation as well as reduced temperatures. By the period 2012 to 2040, the experience with coral reef is expected to become more frequent in bleaching. This is seen as the greatest threat to the reef system in the world. The intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has forecast that this will mostly be caused by the high summer temperatures which induce bleaching. Other places that will be greatly damaged by the bleaching include areas around the sea for example Indian Ocean where over 90 percent of the coral cover is lost in Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Tanzania. Economists have also predicted mass coral bleaching occurrences in Hawaiian corals as well as warming of the ocean (Dove & Hoegh, 17). According to Raymond (2004), The International Tropical Ecosystems Symposium has therefore come up with ways of strengthening the network of marine managers. This will be achieved through engaging effective political and indigenous leadership in order to achieve sustainable management. Conservation of tropical marine and the costal ecosystems should also be improved in facing out the economical

Geico ad campaigns and how they made the company successful Research Paper

Geico ad campaigns and how they made the company successful - Research Paper Example dvertisement campaigns strategy of GEICO integrates within it, and incorporates a vivid amount of mail circulars, radio advertisements, television parody and other forms of advertisements. The company has primarily utilized the punch line, which is "fifteen minutes could save you fifteen percent or more on car insurance." According to the owner of GEICO, Warren Buffett, approximately more than 40% of Americans are capable of making big savings on their money by utilizing the services and features of GEICO. He also mentioned that, if possible, then he could even have invested $2 billion merely on the advertisements of the company. There have been numerous advertisements of GEICO which have become the memorable one shot ads. They include many the following: A man owns a dog who wears a fire propinquity suit and a man's dog wears a fire proximity suit as he distributes the insurance company’s competing bill for the reason that it is "too hot to handle". The duck is on the adverti sement and is found saying (while clearing throat), "Am I on? GEICO could save you hundreds of money on car insurance. Result..." The bill is then removed by the duck and, in its place, a smaller bill is shown, while saying, "...Smaller bill." Another impressive advertisement shows that a long distance phone call is placed by a man through the operator. He uses the code name Bob Wehaddababyitsaboy in order to evade the call charges which could be billed to the recipient of the call. This commercial was run on for several weeks over the televisions and was named joke and had a pitch for GEICO. The ad was accompanied by the shot of a man who was shown further exploiting his name trick on the telephone. He was seen saying "Last name is Wehadababyitsaboyandweighs8pounds3ouncesandisdoingfine". This... Geico Ad Campaigns In the current era of increasing modernization, technical advancements and upgradations, the companies have widely taken the opportunities offered by the diverse media to present their distinctly produced goods and services.There have been numerous advertisements of GEICO which have become the memorable one shot ads.They include many the following: A man owns a dog who wears a fire propinquity suit and a man's dog wears a fire proximity suit as he distributes the insurance company’s competing bill for the reason that it is "too hot to handle".ïÆ'Ëœ The duck is on the advertisement and is found saying (while clearing throat), "Am I on? GEICO could save you hundreds of money on car insurance. Result..." The bill is then removed by the duck and, in its place, a smaller bill is shown, while saying, "...Smaller bill." ïÆ'Ëœ Another impressive advertisement shows that a long distance phone call is placed by a man through the operator. He uses the code name Bob Wehaddababyitsaboy in order to evade the call charges which could be billed to the recipient of the call. This commercial was run on for several weeks over the televisions and was named joke and had a pitch for GEICO. The ad was accompanied by the shot of a man who was shown further exploiting his name trick on the telephone. He was seen saying "Last name is Wehadababyitsaboyandweighs8pounds3ouncesandisdoingfine". This commercial had captured the attention of many viewers and had increased the popularity of the company.

CULTURAL METAPHORS and THE WEEKLY CULTURAL FOCUS SECTIONS (japan) Research Proposal

CULTURAL METAPHORS and THE WEEKLY CULTURAL FOCUS SECTIONS (japan) - Research Proposal Example of the culture is important not only to facilitate proper business transactions but also since total comprehension of a different culture gives room for appreciation of other cultures thereby promoting peaceful coexistence. Therefore, an understanding of the Japanese culture boosts my future career endeavors as an organization’s representative in international forums. Nonetheless, cultural studies require extensive research from different resources ranging from the internet to books among others. The Japanese culture has been covered by relatively many books that are dependable. As such, most of my research will be based on books through the guidance of the librarian on the best reference books. Additionally, I plan to use the internet since it proven to be a great resource especially for information on current issues such as through newspapers and journals. After picking the best at least five references, I will use them to come up with an annotated bibliography which is essential in drawing summaries for the final paper. With this I hope to not only have created an excellent final paper but also to have gained sufficient knowledge regarding the Japanese

Amazon.Com in Business Plan Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Amazon.Com in Business Plan - Research Paper Example To sustain this new venture, Amazon Inc. has a good start off, as its traffic is attractive to buyers and sellers into Amazon market place. Firms likely to be acquired in this endeavor include Diapers.com, Zappos and Soap.com. Amazon intends to buy Quaidis, the parent company to Soap.co and Diapers.com for $540 million. The capital that was collected to fund this acquisition amounts to $78 million. In another strategy for up its competition with CPG companies, Amazon Inc. intends to acquire Zappos at a projected price of $1.1 billion. To compete with Google and Apple, Amazon Inc. intends to upgrade its Kindle to support mobile phone applications and functions. This will enable the incorporation expand from just providing physical goods to digital goods. The low margins strategy has been employed by Amazon regardless it is downcast by other companies. Amazon is offering its products and services at low prices as a strategy to attract more customers and increase its market share. This is a strategy aimed at increasing value to customers rather than increasing its value through high prices and high profits. Increased market share will see Amazon reduce its costs through economies of scale, as the costs will b e spread through many customers. For instance in 2011, Amazon had operating expenses of 91% expressed as a fraction of revenues. This demonstrated its big market share compared to Walmart. Amazon had revenue streams of up to $48 billion. Most of this is attributed to online retail store where it has managed to attract millions of shoppers and sellers to its website. This has led to a cost advantage for Amazon in relation to Walmart and Costcos. Amazon has grown from just a book retailer to be the largest online retail shopping for physical and digital goods and services. This has not stopped the company from further growth and development. The company is seeking to contract Google, which will see it use the Android technology. Although Amazon and Google are market rivals, Amzon seeks to cross the gap between the two and build its new devices on the Android operating system. 8. Implementation strategy: From a range of reasonable options (build or â€Å"go it alone† strategy, p artner via a joint venture or less formal business alliance, license, minority investment, and acquisition), indicate which option would enable the acquiring firm to best implement its chosen business strategy. Because of the nature of the course, you must indicate that an implementation strategy involving an acquisition is preferred to the other options and why. An acquisition is the best strategy for implementation. The acquiring firm’s stands an advantage of running a business that is well established compared to building up a new business. With an established business, the acquiring firm can use the existing financial records to forecast future performance to determine if the new firm to be acquired is profitable. This is not the case with a new firm being set up. Setting up a new firm may require more capital and time. The business’ future performance may not be correctly forecasted because there are many unseen occurrences, as the business has no experience. Part nerships on the other had result in legal disputes, as the partners are likely to disagree on decisions and business issues. Acquisition remains the

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens Essay Example for Free

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens Essay The relationship between Pip, Estella, and Jaggers is going through much growth throughout the story. Pips and Estellas relationship is very similar to as when Pip was just a common boy, and there is not much hope for the relationship to become real. Jaggers also has and will have much influence on the lives of Pip and Estella. The relationship between Pip and Estella is not getting much better and there is not much hope in it, the main reason being that Estella still treats Pip the same as when he was just a common boy. Estella explains that she has no heart and cannot feel emotions, which is from the quote You must know, said Estella, that I have no heart -if that has anything to do with my memory (223). Estella, because she says she has no heart, will not have any feelings for Pip even if she grows to be a gentleman. This shows how there is not much hope in their relationship, because Estella will never have love for Pip. Estella also still calls Pip boy which is shown from the quote You silly boy, said Estella quote composedly, how can you talk such nonsense (248)? Estella still calls Pip boy, as if he was just a common boy, even though he has become more a gentleman. This shows how Estellas attitude for Pip has not changed and probably will not change, which does not bring much hope to their relationship. Another example is when Estella allows Pip to kiss her, just like she did before; shown from the quote Will you never take warning? Or do you kiss my hand in the same spirit in which I once let you kiss my cheek (250)? Pip responds by kissing her, and this shows how Pip is only allowed to kiss her when she tells him he can, even though he has become a gentleman. Their relationship has not seemed to become better because of this, and almost seems as if they are puppets, only doing what Miss Havisham wants them to do. Pips and Estellas relationship overtime has not improved because of Estellas view that Pip will always just be a common boy to her, and another reason being that she says she does not have a heart. Jaggers has and will have much influence on the lives of Pip and Estella in different ways. One way he has influenced Pips life is by becoming his guardian and fulfilling many of his needs, such as in the quote Ill go round presently, and pay our friend off (228). Pip said he does not like  Orlick working at Miss Havishams, so Jaggers pays him off. This has influenced his life by allowing him to think that he could get anything he wants, now that he is wealthier and has Jaggers, who is a powerful man in society. Another way Jaggers has influenced Pip is by giving him advice on which tutor to pick, shown in the quote I dont recommend him, observe; because I never recommend anybody. The gentleman I speak of is one Mr. Matthew Pocket (130). Jaggers has influenced Pips life by suggesting a suitable tutor, who Pip becomes very good friends with. Estellas life has been influenced by Jaggers, one way being that he did something so now they feel an awkward presence towards each other. This is shown at when they are at Miss Havishams estate having dinner, where they avoid making eye contact with each other. Jaggers is a very influential man to Pip and Estella, which impacts both of them in many ways. The relationship between Pip, Estella, and Jaggers is going through great changes and growth. Pips and Estellas relationship throughout the story has mainly stayed the same, as Estella has no care for a serious relationship and treats Pip like he was still a commoner. Even though Estella discourages the relationship, Pip wants to be in one with her even more. Jaggers influence on Pip has grown as he has much influence on him by giving him advice as his guardian.

The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli | Analysis

The Prince by Niccolà ² Machiavelli | Analysis 1. Key Terms: a. auxiliary troops: additional troops that are used when needed b. hereditary principality: A principality technically under the ruler ship of a prince, but nonetheless strongly dominated by the Church. c. fortune: The chance happening of fortunate or adverse events; luck d. hereditary principality: A principality ruled by a prince whose family has controlled the principality for several generations. Hereditary principalities, according to Machiavelli, are generally easy to rule and maintain. e. liberality: The quality or state of being liberal or generous. f. mercenary troops: a professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army. a person primarily concerned with material reward at the expense of ethics g. new principality: a new territory ruled by a prince h. virtu: the quality of being artistic, beautiful, rare, or otherwise such as to interest a collector of such objects 2. Machiavelli wrote The Prince because he wanted Lorenzo de Medici to restore Italy. Machiavelli knew a vast amount about princes, territories, Italy, and ruling a territory, so he thought by writing this book he could get Lorenzo to restore Italy. 3. Machiavelli supported the unification of Italy because he believed that Italy would be much stronger if it was under one rule. Italy was ruled by many different people and Machiavelli realized that Italy was being taken over easily by foreign countries. Machiavelli decided to dedicate his political treatise to the Medici for two reasons. First, he was recently arrested and he wanted to gain higher status, and secondly, he wanted the Medici family to read his treatise, learn from it, and then take over all of Italy and rule Italy with strong military support. Machiavelli believed that the church ran most of Italy, so Italy was defenseless. He wanted the Medici family to listen to him and follow what he was saying. He suggested that the family rule together and unify Italy once and for all. 4. One recurring theme in The Prince is that he must do everything he can to become a better and more powerful ruler. In The Prince, Machiavelli always talks about how the prince needs to do everything in his power to become powerful, even if it means doing acts that may be Machiavellian. He may have to kill higher rulers to get his way, but he must do this if he wants to remain prince for a long period of time. Another theme in The Prince is the prince should try and not be hated by his people, but be feared by his enemies. The prince can not be hated by his people, mostly because his people can take him down if he is not too powerful. He is considered a better and wiser ruler (and more popular) if his people trust him and like him. He should be feared by his enemies because he does not want to have compliances with other territories. 5. In chapters 6 and 7, Machiavelli suggests that to rise to power a man should use his own force (fight in wars and win battles), persuade others to do what he wants them to do, and kill other rivals that may be in the way of his rising power. Machiavelli recommends these vices because the great rulers, including Moses, Cyrus, Romulus and many more rulers have used these vices and they have worked for them. 7. The four types of armies are mercenary troops, auxiliary troops, the princes own troops or all of the armies together. â€Å"The mercenaries and auxiliaries are useless and dangerous† (Machiavelli 52). As Machiavelli states, the mercenary and auxiliary troops are not useful to the prince because they will never be able to remain controllable. Machiavelli also explains that auxiliary troops are not very reliable because if they loose or win, the prince, either way, will not benefit. When a prince has his own troops fighting a war or battle of some sort, the prince would rather have his troops loose than have auxiliary troops loose. If you put all of the armies together, you have a mixed army, which may be the right solution to win a war occasionally. The role of armies is very crucial and important for the prince. If the prince holds a strong army, he will remain in rein for a longer period of time. The prince is relying on the armies to defend his position and his reputatio n. 8. Machiavelli warns the prince against liberality because he will then ask people for money, but the poor and the people will start to hate the prince, and will think of him as a miser. Machiavelli thinks that it is a bad idea to have that reputation that you charged your people with more money and then the prince would not be liked by any of his citizens. 9. According to Machiavelli it is better for a prince to be feared more than loved. Machiavelli believes this because if a prince is loved, he may have good friends, but in the end they will not look out for him, and will abandon him at war, and go against him. So, Machiavelli believes that a prince should be feared, so that he has his own platform, and is not being supported by others. As he says in chapter 17, â€Å"a wise prince must build his foundation on what is his own and not on what belongs to others; he must only contrive to escape hatred, as was said† (Machiavelli 73). 10. The prince must have both popular and military supports because if the prince is not popular with the citizens of his territory, they will not respect him and they will revolt against him or will go their own ways and be independent, and not follow the rules of the prince. The prince also needs military support because then he will be able to trust his people and be able to send them off to battle, and know that he will be safe and will remain his standing as prince, with military support. 11. The quote in Chapter 15 that reads, â€Å"My intention being to write something useful for whoever understands it, it seemed to me more appropriate to pursue the effectual truth of the matter rather than its imagined one† is very important quote because it changes the way the reader looks at the book. It gives a new definition for why Machiavelli wrote this novel. He wants people to read his book, understand it, and learn from it. He also does not want people to think that the truth is like you would imagine, he wants to make it so that it is real, and different than a regular persons perspective. He wants people to use his book to help them, and does not want people to read his book, and think that reading it was a waste of time. In this chapter, he talks about how a prince should have certain qualities, but he could not have all of them, because it is not possible for a person to be that perfect. He wants people to realize that even princes can not strive to be everythin g that youd expect them to be. 12. Machiavelli sees the art of government as the most difficult task for a prince because he is risking his reputation based on the people he chooses to be his ministers and his advisors. He may look foolish if he chooses the minister who is dull and unprepared for his job. When choosing advisors, he needs to choose the ones that listen to him, and do not talk out of order. So, choosing his ministers and advisors is a strenuous job to do, considering his reputation is on the line. 13. Machiavellian, according to thefreedictionary.com, means cleverly deceitful and unscrupulous. So, leaders who are Machiavellian are clever in their ways of getting into higher power, and will do anything, including lie, to have a higher status. So, leaders who do what ever is needed to obtain their goals could be called Machiavellian because the leaders have to be deceitful and unscrupulous because a man may be in the way of obtaining their goals. 14. In Brunelleschis Dome, Giangaleazzo Viscounti followed what Machiavelli supported. Machiavelli believed that a prince should be feared and should do everything he must do to become a more powerful ruler. Giangaleazzo killed his uncle (who was also his father-in-law), threatened the Florentines, bribed the emperor and was strongly feared by surrounding territories. Machiavelli would approve the ways of this prince. 15. An analogy that can be made to fortune and the Arno is fortune can change and so can the rivers. Depending on the season, the rivers may be relatively stable to travel on, however, at times the rivers become almost impossible to use as a source for traveling. Fortune is something you can not change with force, just like a river. As Machiavelli states, she shows her power where there is no force (Machiavelli 105). Fortune and rivers both change and no one can personally control the way they act. 16. The role of fortune in human affairs is major. Fortune is considered, according to Machiavelli, half of a humans actions. Machiavelli states, â€Å"a prince who relies entirely on Fortune comes to ruin as she changes† (Machiavelli 106). He believes that a prince should rely on fortune, but also rely on the other half of human actions which is freewill. To alter the course of fortune, men can rely more on freewill than on fortune, than fortune will lessen and vice versa. 17. One national leader in North Korea, that can be considered Machiavellian, is Kim II Sung. Kim II Sung ruled over North Korea for forty-six years. He had two main goals which were: take over South Korea and rebuild North Korea. To accomplish his goal of taking over the South, he had to declare war. After declaring war, Kim II Sung still did not accomplish his task of taking over the South. To accomplish his goal of rebuilding the North, Kim II Sung created a rule in which he had absolute power. He controlled everything that went on in North Korea. In the end, Kim II Sung tries to state that he did not start the war that caused many casualties. Kim II Sung left his people with nothing, and took the wealth he earned and used it for himself, while his people suffered. He was rich and ruled North Korea, while his people were poor and miserable. I would consider this leader to be Machiavellian because he treated his people by being cruel and selfish. He started a war which caused many deaths and sadness all over Korea. Using his sly acts, he ruled North Korea with wealth by his side. 18. The Prince still is studied today in history and political science classes because it is basically to stop people from doing the wrong things that leaders have done before, and instead do something different and succeed. Also, this book describes great rulers who may be known for their actions and will help people understand history and the past. 19. The Prince was an interesting novel to read. I think that Machiavellis ideas definitely will help princes become more powerful and wiser leaders. He is right when he states that â€Å"Nevertheless, a prince must make himself feared in such a way that if he does not gain love, he does avoid hatred, for to be feared and not to be hated can go very well together, and this will always achieve if he does not touch the goods and the women of his citizens and subjects† (Machiavelli 72). Machiavelli is definitely right when he says that a prince should be feared because then the prince will be wiser and will be known for his great power and no one would fight a prince who was so-called, feared. Another interesting statement that Machiavelli believes is that the prince should not be hated by his people. He gives an example of a prince who was loved by his people to prove his point. â€Å"Messer Annibale Bentivogli, prince of Bolognawas killed by the Canneschi, who conspired agains t himImmediately after that murder, the people rose up and killed all the Caneschi. This came about because of the good will that the house of Bentivogli had at that time with the people† (Machiavelli 81). As you can see, Machiavelli proves his point by saying that the Bentivoglis people stood up for him, and killed the man who killed him, because the people loved their prince. The people have power to turn against their prince, and the prince would be taken down if the majority of the people disliked him. I agree with Machiavellis ideas because they are the right choices. As I do not know a lot about princes, Machiavelli proved the ways that a prince should go, and I believe that he convinced me that his ways were the best.

The Impact Of Effective Leadership

The Impact Of Effective Leadership Abstract Purpose This study helps us to determine how sales managers leadership style impacts their subordinates organizational work performance on routine tasks as well as on work unit projects. The study will further help the managers to adapt their leadership styles in order to enhance subordinates work performance, and consequently increase overall efficiency of the organization. Academically, this compilation will provide additional insights into the leadership field by contributing to the future development of this study area. Design/methodology/approach Leadership styles and work performance will be measured by a self formulated questionnaire after assessing their reliability and validity. A total of 200 respondents (middle managers with their respective subordinates) working in oil companies of Lahore, Pakistan will be surveyed in the study. Significance of the study By applying the results in practice, managers can adjust their leadership style to facilitate their subordinates to yield high work performance, whereas the human resource management function of oil companies can integrate these results for further enhancing leadership development in their organization. Originality/value This paper is the first attempt to understand the influence of transformational, transactional and laissez-faire leadership styles on work performances of subordinates in the oil industry of Pakistan. Introduction Effective leadership is a driving force for the accomplishment of organizational goals and leadership behavior is an important variable having significant impact on the success of project management (Gharehbaghi and McManus, 2003). Enshassi and Burgess (1991) studied the relationship between leadership styles of several managers and their effectiveness in the Middle East. They found a strong association between managers style and their effectiveness. The high task and high employee orientation style is the most effective style in managing multi-cultural workforces. Managers need to be friendly, accessible, and understanding of their subordinates personalities and requirements with all employees on a project. In addition, they have to be task oriented in order to have control over the process of the work and achieve the target. In the real world there are many subordinates are facing problems which impact their work performances which can be traced to the leadership practices adopted by their respective supervisors. Some of these subordinates may have insufficient competencies or their traits may not fit with the nature of their work or in many cases the supervisor also tend to use inappropriate leadership styles in dealing with their subordinates at various points of times. Superior performance that helps the organization to achieve organizational goals is the prime aim of effective leadership. To achieve superior performance from subordinates, Supervisors must make use of appropriate leadership styles. They should also recognize their subordinates individual needs and their future career goals. Leadership research in oil companies can give us insight on work performance and its impact on companies routinely project outcomes. Appropriate leadership approach can shape subordinates performance in a desirable way and facilitate managerial projects to go smoothly. In addition, adopting suitable leadership approach will create subordinate satisfaction. Satisfied subordinates are likely to put much effort into their work. This study explores the actual leadership styles of few oil companies of, Pakistan and examines the relationships between: Leadership styles on work performance The purpose is to determine What is the most appropriate leadership style for Pakistani Supervisors in this modern time? Once the right leadership style has been identified, applying the style in practice should lead to efficiency in subordinates work performance, and consequently benefit these supervisors who are ultimately responsible for the success of achieving and exceeding sale quotas and other managerial projects. The right leadership style should be able to push subordinates to complete assignments timely and correctly while at the same time, bringing out the best in them. Lastly, professional respect and commitment to the Organization is additional benefits that may accrue through effective leadership Leadership and work performance Leadership can be described in terms of the power, position, personality, authority and responsibility, mostly used as a facilitation process to achieve a goal. Therefore, the definition of leadership used in the present study is the process is defines as (act) of influencing the activities of an organized group in its efforts toward goal setting and goal achievement (Stogdill, 1950) Statement of the problem This study aims at analyzing the relationship of three Leadership Styles i.e. Laissez-faire, Transformational and Transactional leadership styles and subordinates work performance in the marketing and sales departments of various oil and gas companies operating in Pakistan. The study will take into account the effect of the 9 leadership behaviors i.e. idealized influence (attributed), idealized influence (behavioral), intellectual stimulation, individualized consideration, inspirational motivation, contingent reward, management-by-exception (active), management-by-exception (passive) and laissez-faire (no leadership) on the 7 work performance variables i.e. quality of work, quantity of work, creativity in problem solving, team work, discipline, dependable And overall job satisfaction Significance of the problem This study helps us to understand how marketing and sales managers leadership styles and affect their subordinates organizational work performance on various managerial projects.By applying the results in practice, managers can adjust their Leadership style to facilitate their subordinates to yield high work performance, whereas the human resource management function of oil companies can integrate these results for further enhancing leadership development in their organization. Objectives of the study 1) To what extent are these leadership styles present at the managerial level in these departments 2) To determine any relationship, if it exists, between a particular leadership style of sales/ marketing managers/supervisors and its subordinate perceived job performance and/or job satisfaction Scope of the Study The study aimed at answering the following research questions: Q1. Which is leadership style (laissez-faire, transactional or transformational) is present in the organization? Q2. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and greater quality of work from the subordinate? Q3. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and greater quantity of work from the subordinate? Q4. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and higher creativity in problem solving of the subordinate? Q5. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and higher level of discipline in the subordinate? Q6. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and higher dependability in the subordinate? Q7. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and higher teamwork in the subordinate? Q8. What is the relationship between transformational leadership style and overall satisfaction in the subordinate? Q9. What is the between transactional leadership style and greater quality of work from the subordinate? Q10. What is the relationship between transactional leadership style and greater quantity of work from the subordinate? Q11. What is the relationship between transactional leadership style and higher creativity in problem solving of the subordinate? Q12. What is the relationship transactional between leadership style and higher level of discipline in the subordinate? Q13. What is the relationship transactional between leadership style and higher dependability in the subordinate? Q14. What is the relationship between transactional leadership style and higher teamwork in the subordinate? Q15. What is the relationship between transactional leadership style and overall satisfaction in the subordinate? Q16. What is the between Laissez-faire leadership style and greater quality of work from the subordinate? Q17. What is the relationship between Laissez-faire leadership style and greater quantity of work from the subordinate? Q18. What is the relationship between Laissez-faire leadership style and higher creativity in problem solving of the subordinate? Q19. What is the relationship Laissez-faire between leadership style and higher level of discipline in the subordinate? Q20. What is the relationship Laissez-faire between leadership style and higher dependability in the subordinate? Q21. What is the relationship between Laissez-faire leadership style and higher teamwork in the subordinate? Q22. What is the relationship between Laissez-faire leadership style and overall satisfaction in the subordinate? Definition of major terms and formation of the questionnaire Effective Leadership The present study uses effective leadership approach to identify the leadership style of middle management. In this approach, leadership is conceptualized by the behavioral areas from laissez-faire style (non-leadership), through transactional leadership (which hinges on reward system and punishments), to transformational leadership (which is based on inspiration and behavioral charisma) (Bass and Avolio, 1993). The various components are now elaborated. Laissez-faire style. An avoidant leader may either not intervene in the work affairs of subordinates or may completely avoid responsibilities as a superior and is unlikely to put in effort to build a relationship with them. Laissez-faire style is associated with dissatisfaction, unproductiveness and ineffectiveness (Deluga, 1992). Transactional style. Transactional leaders focus mainly on the physical and the security needs of subordinates. The relationship that evolves between the leader and the follower is based on bargaining exchange or reward systems (Bass, 1985; Bass and Avolio, 1993). Transformational style. Transformational leader encourages subordinates to put in extra effort and to go beyond what they (subordinates) expected before (Burns, 1978). The subordinates of transformational leaders feel trust, admiration, loyalty, and respect toward leaders and are motivated to perform extra-role behaviors (Bass, 1985; Katz and Kahn, 1978).Transformational leaders achieve the greatest performance from subordinates since they are able to inspire their subordinates to raise their capabilities for success and develop subordinates innovative problem solving skills (Bass, 1985; Yammarino and Bass, 1990).This leadership style has also been found to lead to higher levels of organizational commitment and is associated with business unit performance (Barling et al., 1996). The following discussions on leadership factors and leadership outcomes are extracted from Bass and Avolios (2004) MLQ manual. Leadership factors The leadership factors used to measure transformational, transactional and laissez-faire leadership style in this study are from the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) developed by Bass and Avolio based on the theory of Transformational leadership. They are: (1) Laissez-faire factor: The non-leadership. Leaders in this type will always avoid getting involved when important issues arise and avoid making decisions. (2) Transactional leadership factors: Contingent reward. This factor is based on a bargaining exchange system in which the leader and subordinates agree together to accomplish the organizational goals and the leader will provide rewards to them. Leaders must clarify the expectations and offer recognition when goals are achieved. Management-by-exception (active). The leader specifies the standards for compliance, as well as what constitutes ineffective performance, and may punish subordinates for being out of compliance with those standards. This style of leadership implies closely monitoring for mistakes, and errors and then taking corrective action as quickly as needed. Management-by-exception (passive). Passive leaders avoid specifying agreements, clarifying expectations and standards to be achieved by subordinates, but will intervene when specific problems become apparent. This style does not respond to situations and problems systematically. (3) Transformational leadership factors: Idealized influence charisma. This factor consists of firstly, idealized influence attributed, and secondly, idealized influence behavioral. They are the charismatic elements in which leaders become role models who are trusted by subordinates. The leaders show great persistence and determination in the pursuit of objectives, show high standards of ethical, principles, and moral conduct, sacrifice self-gain for the gain of others, consider subordinates needs over their own needs and share successes and risks with subordinates. Inspirational motivation. Leaders behave in ways that motivate subordinates by providing meaning and challenge to their work. The spirit of the team is aroused while enthusiasm and optimism are displayed. The leader encourages subordinates to envision attractive future states while communicating expectations and demonstrating a commitment to goals and a shared vision. Intellectual stimulation. Leaders stimulate their subordinates efforts to be innovative and creative by questioning assumptions, reframing problems, and approaching old situations in new ways. The intellectually stimulating leader encourages subordinates to try new approaches but emphasizes rationality. Individualized consideration. Leaders build a considerate relationship with each individual, pay attention to each individuals need for achievement and growth by acting as a coach or mentor, developing subordinates in a supportive climate to higher levels of potential. Individual differences in terms of needs and desires are recognized. Work performance The success of a project is usually stated in terms of meeting three major objectives: completion on time, completion within budget, completion at the desired level of quality or technical specification (Tukel and Rom, 2001; Xiao and Proverbs, 2003).Atkinson (1999) called these three criteria the iron triangle or golden triangle. In this study, the performance levels of subordinate were measured in the direction which would support the success of meeting deadlines achieving sales targets and completion of various other managerial projects. Thus they were measured from firstly, work quantity (achievement compared with the planned schedule), and secondly, work quality (fit with the desire level of supervisory requirement). In addition, when working in the organization on various projects, people have to coordinate and work together as a team hence teamwork and work disciplines are the important qualities they should occupy (Sanvido et al., 1992; Nguyen et al., 2004). Besides, meeting w ith various customers nature is a daily operation where unpredictable problems occur regularly, creativity in problem solving and the level of dependability on handling routine work and new assignments is an essential quality that the subordinates must posses (Nguyen et al., 2004; Nitithamyong and Tan, 2007). Thus these performance aspects needing to be measured from subordinates include: work quantity, work quality, dependability, team work; creativity in problem solving, work discipline and overall job satisfaction. Together, the seven are used as measures of work performance. The samples There is no list of routinely managerial work projects of oil and gas companies of Pakistan, therefore a non-probability sampling incorporating snowball technique will be adopted selecting 25 qualified Areas Sales Managers (supervisors) and 175 sales manager(subordinates) Research instrument A questionnaire survey was adopted for collecting data because of its advantage in yielding responses in standard format from a large number of respondents and the benefit of collecting data from respondents from geographically dispersed locations. The measurements adopted in the questionnaires are: Effective Leadership styles in this research will be measured by studying the definitions as given by Bass and Avolios (2004) in their multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ) Form 5X. and then formulating a questionnaire on leadership style. 2 statements are used to measure each behavior therefore a total of 18 statements of Likert scale are self formulated. The measurement required sales managers to rate each statement on a five-point rating scale ranging from strongly disagree to Strongly agree based on their experience with their supervisor. Work performance. A rating tool was devised for Area Sales Managers (supervisors) to evaluate their subordinates work performance. The measurement required Area Sales Managers to rate each statement on a five-point rating scale ranging from strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree based on their experience with the subordinates. Statements focused on 7 components of subordinates work performance as discussed previously. Literature Review According to Mustapha and Naoum (1998), team management style (9, 9) was chosen by all high performing managers as their preferred management style. The finding further showed a significant association between the level of authority given to the managers and their level of effectiveness. High performing managers were given higher authority than moderate performing ones. Odusami et al. (2003) concluded that there was significant relationship between the project leaders professional qualification, his leadership style, team composition and overall project performance. The most appropriate leadership style identified in their research is consultative autocrat which is similar to team management used in Mustapha and Naoums (1998) study. Other group of scholars explained that leadership behaviour is culturally determined and different from culture to culture. (Burger and Bass, 1979; Lok and Crawford, 2004). National culture can produce statistically significant moderating effects on the impact of leadership on outcomes, subordinates performance, expectations, organizational commitment and job satisfaction are vary from country to country because of the dissimilarity in cultures as well (Al-Meer, 1989; Hofstede, 1991). Besides, some scholars have conducted the research on the relationship between leadership and its outcomes such as satisfaction, work performance, commitment and their result showed the positive association between them (Euske and Jackson, 1980; Savery, 1994). Therefore, it can be assumed that the variations in leadership styles and individuals preferences are influences from cultures variations would lead to differences in outcomes. Yukongdi (2004) revealed that the most preferred management style by t he employees was consultative management, followed by participative, paternalistic, while the least proportion of employees preferred an autocratic manager. Employees who perceived their managers to be more democratic also reported a higher level of influence in decision making, greater satisfaction with participation, and job satisfaction. Numerous scholars have provided evidence contradicting the above. For instance; Kumbanaruk (1987) observed that employees are accustomed to a tradition of a top-down approach with employees receiving orders rather than thinking by themselves and expressing their own ideas. Thai culture is characterised by a tight hierarchical social system, accepted existential inequality and a strong value of relationships (Komin, 1990). Kumbanaruk (1987) and Komin (1990) suggested that employees might feel uncomfortable working in a participative work setting. Involvement in decision-making may bring unwanted responsibilities to subordinates (Rohitratana, 1998) . Thai culture, long time ago, does not encourage subordinates to dare to make mistakes, nor to take initiative but favour avoiding taking risks, because risk means bringing on more uncertain situations and increasing responsibilities (Holmes and Tangtongtavy, 1995). Therefore, it seems reasonable to reveal that working under a participative leader may not necessarily lead to greater job satisfaction among some employees. Hofstede (1980) remarked that in countries in which most employees are afraid to disagree with their managers (high power distance countries); subordinates prefer managers spread across the autocratic or paternalistic styles. Consequently, it is logical to predict that a larger proportion of such employees will prefer either an autocratic or paternalistic manager, while fewer employees would prefer a consultative manager. According to Lok and Crawford (2004), it was expected that higher initiating structure leadership style would provide greater commitment and job satisfaction in Asian firms whereas, higher consideration leadership style would provide greater commitment and job satisfaction in a western firm. Brown (2003) summarised the concept of task-oriented and relation-oriented leadership from several scholars in his research. He revealed that task oriented leadership have included initiating structure; concern with production; autocratic; achievement oriented; goal-achieving include contingent reward; management by exception (active) and management by exception (passive). Relations oriented leadership, or consideration consists of idealized influence (attributed); idealized influence (behavior); individualized consideration; intellectual stimulation and inspirational motivation. According to Burns (1978), transactional leadership is the fundamental of one person taking the initiative in making contact with others for the purpose of an exchange of valued things or bargaining process. It involves rewards and Punishments. Transactional lea ders must identify and clarify to subordinates about the setting role, task requirements, performance expectations and the distribution of rewards and punishment according to performance (Bass, 1985) whereas transformational leadership occurs when leaders and followers raise one another to higher levels of motivation and morality. The transformational leader exhibits charisma, develops a vision, provides inspiration, motivates by creating high expectations and modeling appropriate behaviors, gives consideration to the individual, pays personal attention to followers, provides intellectual stimulation, and challenges followers with new ideas and approaches (Burns, 1978). From the foregoing, transactional leadership is akin to initiating structure or task orientation whereas the transformational style is similar to consideration or relations orientation. Brazier (2005) indicated that organic or flatter structures type of organization with decentralized decision making and low power di stance of most Western firms tends to facilitate a more transformational leadership style while bureaucratic structures with high power distance and high collectivism of Asian firms encourage a more transactional style. Besides, the relationship between organizational commitment and work performance has also been examined by Mowday et al. (1974) and their result indicated that these two variables are positively linked to each other whereas Porter and Steers (1973) found positive relationship between organizational commitment and job satisfaction. Therefore, a transactional leader is capable of facilitating the formation of a group which performs at higher commitment and work performance level to the organization in the Asian context or eastern background. Hypothesis Development I therefore hypothesized the following for Pakistan: H0. There is no leadership approach present in the organization H1. There is no relationship between Laissez-faire leadership style and work performance of the subordinate H2. There is no relationship between transactional leadership style and work performance of the subordinate H3. There is no relationship between transformational leadership style work performance of the subordinate The focus of this research is on leadership styles and their effects on subordinates work performance. Data on leadership style shall be gathered from the subordinate group whereas supervisors will be providing data on their subordinates work performance level based on their judgment. The sales and marketing departments of oil companies mainly multinationals operating in Pakistan usually have one area sales manager who receives direct instructions from the national sales manager at the same time supervises 5 to 8 sales officers (subordinates). Thus, there are direct contacts and relationships between area sales managers and his subordinates. Therefore, sales officers, as direct subordinates of the Area Sales Managers are chosen as the respondents to provide data on the leadership styles and personal competencies of their Area Sales Managers. On the other hand, Area Sales Managers provided data on the work performance of their direct subordinates. The Job description of Area sales manager is managing portfolios, developing a customer base necessary to meet all forecasts and budgets, aligning the number of distributors in the territory by strategic consolidation to increase companies ROI, articulating year on year sales forecasts for procurements at supply chain which helps in minimizing warehousing costs, developing trade promotions scheme for distributors to enhance brand image and sales volume, in close coordination with the brand team, working as a point of contact for customers which ensures smooth business transactions at all levels, keeping close follow ups with all team members prospecting for new business, preparing and presenting proposals and maintaining existing relationships. Thus, it is necessary that both Supervisors and their subordinates are qu alified to be selected for data collection. This reduces the potential bias. The top oil companies of Pakistan were identified and a full set of questionnaires (one for the Area Sales Managers and four to eight for subordinates) were then sent to each qualified work unit with the covering letter explaining the objectives of the study and assuring respondents of confidentiality and urging them to participate in the study.

The Frontier of Existence in Beckett’s Waiting for Godot and Ionesco’s

The Frontier of Existence  in Beckett’s Waiting for Godot and Ionesco’s Rhinoceros     Ã‚   ‘I feel that I had been at the frontier of existence, close to the place where they lose their names, their definition, the place where time stops, almost outside History’ (E Ionesco). This essay will explore the frontier of existence in Beckett’s Waiting for Godot and Ionesco’s Rhinoceros The title Rhinoceros is formed from the ancient Greek Rhino meaning nose and Keros meaning horn. However, in this play I take rhinoceros to mean an animal that is thick-skinned and ugly. The people who become rhinoceroses become as thick skinned as the rhinoceroses they turn into. On first viewing of Rhinoceros one journeys with the characters on what appears to be something of a mystery tour. One cannot be sure if a rhinoceros really exists. It is this sense of unknowing that makes for a lack of definition in the characters themselves. There is Jean’s first announcement of ‘Oh a rhinoceros’ (Act I:I P.14) as he points off stage is tantalising as one can only hear noises. One tries to define the situation and the characters by questioning their imagination and sanity. Much that one might expect to be told about the characters and their situation is denied to us. One only gets little snippets of information about their society for example a couple of revelations fr om Jean to Berenger: ‘there’s been no zoo in our town since the animals were destroyed in the plague†¦ages ago†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ (I:I P.20) and ‘You know perfectly well that the Council banned all travelling performers from the district†¦There haven’t been any since we were children.’ (I:I P.20). Council has a capital ‘c’ and there is no mention of God anywhere which is a striking opposite from Waiting f... ...ific tyranny or exile; perhaps the Nazi occupation of France or separation from one’s homeland. But one does have choices as definition does not have to be of a single entity. Emphasis could be put on defining what happens while Vladimir and Estragon are waiting rather than notions of termination Works Cited   Beckett, Samuel, Waiting for Godot Cohen, R., Back to Beckett Coe, Richard N., Eugà ¨ne Ionesco: A Study of His Work Hayman, Ronald, Eugà ¨ne Ionesco Ionesco, Eugà ¨ne, Rhinoceros, The Chairs and The Lesson Lamont, Rosette C., Ionesco: A Collection of Critical Essays Lamont, Rosette C. and Friedman, M.J., The two faces of Ionesco Lazar, Moshe., The Dream and the Play: Ionesco’s Theatrical Quest Lyons, C., Samuel Becket Lewis, Allan, Ionesco Pronko, Leonard C., Eugà ¨ne Ionesco Worth, K., Beckett the Shape Changer   

Gateway Essay -- essays research papers

Gateway Inc. Issues:  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The US personal computer market continued to struggle and Dell had just lowered its prices about 20%. As a result, its stock price rose 13% and it gained more market share.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  How should Gateway respond to Dell and its recent price cuts? o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Lowering Gateway prices could jeopardize gross profit margins o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Conversely, unit sales were already down so there was the threat of additional sales loss  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Resource Allocation: o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Should Gateway focus on US consumer sales more or US business sales?  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Keeping in mind that Gateway planned to discontinue company-owned operations outside North America at the end of 2001 o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  How should Gateway run its sales and advertising operations? (Keeping in mind, the 2001 advertising budget is about $20 million less than in 1999 at $239.6 million)  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  How much emphasis should be placed on PC’s and PC-related units v. â€Å"beyond-the-box† products and services?  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Where should Gateway’s marketing efforts be directing customers: telephone and its website or to its Country Stores?  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Operating issues in regards to selling, general and administrative (s, g, a) expenses: o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Overall company s, g, a expenses would decline due to:  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Closing of North America manufacturing, sales and service operations  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Reduction in the number of Country Stores  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Less advertising fees and expenditures  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  End of alliance with OfficeMax o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  However, decisions about continued s, g, a expenses still needed to be made:  §Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Does the Gateway store concept need more thought pertaining to Gateway’s business model of operating as built-to-order?  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Gateway’s gross margin and operating costs needed attention in order to once again be profitable o  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The influential aspects among its customer sales mix, its product sales mix and its sales mix across its 3 distribution channels needed to be monitored a... ...f both and combat Dell’s lower prices. Ways in which this could potentially happen is by offering basic beyond-the-box products with the purchase of a PC and aggressively encourage upgrades and additional features customers can’t refuse. Another way to counter other PC manufactures is through differentiation. By Gateway focusing on operating its build-to-order method as efficiently as possible, exploiting its distinct third channel of stores and staying technologically as innovative as possible, it is able to differentiate itself apart from its competitors.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Lastly, in addition to its pursuit of the consumer market, I think Gateway could benefit from more assertively targeting the business segment that has been ruled by Dell. It’s a fact, that PC’s sold for business-use tend to be of a higher quality and therefore, more expensive with higher margins. In 2000, 65% of Dell’s PC sales went towards the business sector whereas Gateway’s main market was from consumer sales, which is often less profitable. If Gateway could go after the business market, without completely losing its consumer sales base, it would be able to better compete, especially with Dell.

“Hip-Hop, The Renaissance” Essay

They say â€Å"they never really miss you til you dead or you gone† So on that note I’m leaving after the song. A wise MC by the name of Shawn Corey Carter told me this as his Black Album gave me identical eclectic vibes I felt listening to the likes of Digable Planets, Big L, Big Daddy Kane, Big Pun, Common, Mos Def and others artists born of â€Å"The Renaissance†. I have come to inform you all of this renaissance known as hip-hop, a renaissance that will never cease breathing until the last listener’s foot is finished tapping to the rhythm and rhyme scheme of their favorite record. Hip-Hop, a genre of stylized rhythmic music that is used to accompany a rhythmic form of speech that would go on to become rap. Many have tried unsuccessfully to pinpoint the location of the birth of this â€Å"Renaissance† by saying that this is a West-coast, Midwest, and even a down South born style of music. However, I prefer to take you back to the 1970’s on 1520 Sedgwick Street in the Bronx, the home of Jamaican DJ Kool Herc who is arguably considered the father of hip hop, if not one of the many. See Kool Herc’s style of deejaying at house parties was that he would recite rhymes over what would in later time garner the title â€Å"an instrumental†. He would use a plethora of in house reference when dropping said rhymes on the microphone not knowing this would spawn a movement that would travel through the streets of Brooklyn and be spread by various other party Dj’s as well such as Coke La Rock. Spoken- word and music by early founding fathers such as Gil Scott- Heron, Jalal Mansur, and The Last Poets (one of whom I know personally) helped this movement come into fruition because of the simple fact that their lyrics were based on post- civil rights era life in the urban community. Oh yes the movement was real. Not only because everyone could relate but because it came via a rhythmic delivery that captured the mind and imagination of the people of that time. In creating this movement, they led us into a new era of Hip-Hop in which The Sugarhill Gang recorded the first record of the genre in 1979 titled â€Å"Rapper’s Delight†. There were many others who allegedly stated their claim as being the first, but couldn’t contend with Sugarhill Gang because â€Å"Rapper’s Delight† made the Billboard Top 100. It’s like Rosa Parks. We all know she wasn’t the first to not give up her seat, but why argue if it led to a positive result in the grand scheme of things. By the 80’s, Hip-Hop had spread to every major city in the United States, but Philadelphia was the only city that could come close to drawing comparison to New York’s contributions to Hip-Hop after Philly artist Jocko Henderson released his record â€Å"Rhythm Talk† Since I have told you the history of the Renaissance known as Hip-Hop, let’s bring it to the present since every student in here, I’m assuming, is a late 80’s, 90’s baby.   Now let’s talk about present day artists that epitomize the rhythmic, eclectic and dynamic styles. We talk about Jay-Z, Kanye West, Drake, Meek Mill, Big Sean, Eminem, Common, Mos Def, and so on. I prefer to talk about Black Thought’s team, The Roots. This Hip-Hop group has transcended the Hip-Hop genre since the came on to the scene in the City of Brotherly Love in 1987. Black Thought and ?uestlove both attended the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts where ?uestlove would be the drum kit at talent shows while Black Thought laced the percussions with lyrics that would make The Last Poets, Gil Scott-Heron, and especially DJ Kool Herc proud of the fact that the roots of Hip-Hop have not been forgotten. Ironic how they would become known as The Roots in the process of their formation. They barely missed the Top 100 when they dropped their first major label album titled â€Å"Do You Want More?!!!!† in January 1995. What made this so significant is that they used no prerecorded instruments, kicks, or sounds. Every bit of their sound was original. This to me is why they epitomize what Hip-Hop because they are as original in the 21st century as they were in the 90’s when they made their debut. Another artist I will mention is 23 year old Compton emcee Kendrick Lamar who just released his debut album â€Å"good kid, m.A.A.d city†. I believe it is the album of the year, but that’s a persuasive speech for another day. With this one album alone Kendrick shows veterans in the game how to perfectly arrange an album and turn it into a masterpiece that reaches every generation and demographic. In closing I will say that what started as a Renaissance has become commercialized. Do I feel that there is hope that we will one day as artists go back to our roots like The Roots and Kendrick Lamar? Yes, but it will be a strenuous process. The Renaissance is in good hands with artists like Kendrick Lamar making classics with one debut. Not to mention myself. I try to bring a new feel myself to the game as well. Hip-Hop, The Renaissance is taking a step into the next generation. I will leave you Hip-Hop fans with this question: â€Å"Will you take that next step with me.

National Social Issue: Drugs and substance

The problem of drug and alcohol abuse among youngsters has become a social and concern of national importance that merits closer attention and demands significant thrust and efforts by parents, teachers and government. This problem of drug and alcohol abuse takes especially severe implications in case of youngsters due to their greater vulnerability in becoming confirmed addicts of these substances ( Langfield, MacIntyre and Turner, 2006). Statistics from Office of national drug control policy point out that over half the students in USA over half the students in USA try out at least one illegal drug before passing out high school, and around two third of them have at least drunk once (Fact Sheets). It’s also reported that use of illicit drugs and alcohol among American youngsters is highest in the industrialized world (Haier, Maddi and Wadhwa, 1996). Causes of substance abuse Adolescents turn towards drugs and alcohol due to a number of reasons that include disturbed family background, history of substance abuse in the family, pressures from peers and friends, as a reflection of prevailing social trends and some times just for experimentation purpose (Prichard and Payne, 2005). Their peers or friends, public trends, and general acceptance of limited drug use that is considered social and normal initiate a large number of teenagers to substance abuse. Youngsters are indeed under great pressure to use drugs due to pressure from their immediate social interaction, and because drug use is seen as sign of growing up. In this regard, reports and surveys have strongly indicated that once youngsters understand the dangers associated with drug abuse, there is a significant reduction in drug abuse among them. Many youngsters turn to drug abuse feeling they are invincible before drugs and thereby get entrapped in the vicious circles of alcohol and drug addiction (Prichard and Payne, 2005). Generally youngsters are initiated in the drug cycle with a relatively less dangerous but highly addictive drug marijuana. Later on they are motivated to use more dangerous and potentially life threatening drugs such as crack, cocaine, and heroine, making them completely depended on drug. Increasing instances of substance abuse also finds hand of organized drug mafia whose business depends on increasing the size of their spread by popularizing the concept that drug use is common and therefore acceptable (Cherry, Dillon and Rugh, 2002).. Effect of Substance Abuse Dependence upon drugs abuse creates a whole set of medical, social, and psychological problems for the youngsters that adversely affect their normal development and growth path while creating an equally traumatic experience for their parents and peers. The persistent use of drugs and alcohol cause depression, moods swings, sudden volatile behavior, seizures, lack in concentration, lack in coordinated speech and behavior, stupor and increased suicidal tendency in the adolescents (Prichard and Payne, 2005). Other problems related to drug and alcohol abuse are disrupted family life, self isolation and seclusion, disruption in functioning of central nervous system, and renal and hepatic failures (Haier, Maddi and Wadhwa, 1996).   Heavy drug abuse leads to permanent damage to brain tissues, cause lasting depression, irritability, mood swings, inability to take decisions, reduction in cognitive and intellectual abilities, isolation from family and friends, increase in suicidal tendency, coma and even death. Remedy of substance use The problems related to drugs and alcohols are systematic, long term and need consistent monitoring, support and treatment, something that is only possible in the family setup (Langfield, MacIntyre and Turner, 2006). Individual treatment is seldom effective as its effects are short termed and in the absence of any preventive motivation and check adolescents tend to fall back to the use of drugs and alcohol.   Therefore the problem requires a systematic, comprehensive and all out approach to attack its foundation. The government, in coordination of society needs to evolve policies and programs that prevent youngsters from being initiated into the drug use (Rivers and Shore,1997). An important step in this effort is to identify the youngsters who have already used/abused drug once and ensuring that they are not led to further abuse of drugs and/or alcohol. In this regard, federal student drug testing program is a major initiative that aims to make students aware of their own drug abusing habits without exposing them or embarrassing them before their friends and family members (Rivers and Shore,1997). The mission should also aim to spread awareness against performance enhancement drugs in sports academies and sporting teams, as these drugs encourage students to take illegal drugs at later stages. This priority should also focus on making younger people aware of better health options, educating them on full range of dangers associated with drug abuse, the permanent debilitating effect of drugs like cocaine, marijuana and heroine on their family relation, health, career and entire life (Haier, Maddi and Wadhwa, 1996). The program must aims at launching a comprehensive media program to educate youngsters on all the aspects of drug abuse. It also includes the intention to induce help from families, schools, sports coaches, teachers and community leaders in to reinforce the message that drug use is extremely harmful, dangerous and leads to irreparable loss (Cherry, Dillon and Rugh, 2002). The substance abuses prevention policy should further aims to use public health infrastructure to intervene in the initial period of drug abuse. An integrated aspect is to use medical institutions as a screening procedure and providing treatment to every one, whether they can afford institutional treatment or not. The program should also includes patients risk assessment by physicians to estimate their potential of drug abuse (Haier, Maddi and Wadhwa, 1996). The final priority in program should be concerned with attacking the well structured and deeply rooted drug trade by targeting foundation of drug business, such as agricultural production of many drugs, their transportation and distribution network, its organizational and hierarchical system and its transportation system (Cherry, Dillon and Rugh, 2002). This strategy promises impressive results with certain elimination of major drug cartels, elimination of cocaine trade and make significant progress in bringing down the size of organized drug market. In this regard United Sates is committed to closely interact with international community to share information and collectively act against the drug trade. Reference Andrew Cherry, Dillon, M.E, Rugh, D. 2002. Substance Abuse: A Global View. Greenwood Press. Westport, CT. Haier, R.J. Maddi. S.R. Wadhwa. S.R. 1996. Relationship of Hardiness to Alcohol and Drug Use in Adolescents. American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse. Volume: 22. Issue: 2. P.A. Langfield, M. MacIntyre and J.G. Turner. 2006. Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Abuse. 27.02.2007. http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/consumer/10216.html Prichard J.   and Payne J. 2005. Alcohol, Drugs and Crime: A study of Juvenile in Detention. Australian Institute of Criminology. 27.02.2007. http://www.aic.gov.au/publications/rpp/67/06_chapter2.html#1 P. Clayton Rivers and Elsie R. Shore. 1997. Substance Abuse on Campus: A Handbook for College and University Personnel.Greenwood Press.Westport, CT.                                       

Ralph’s Leadership: Lord of the Flies Essay

Throughout the book, Ralph stands for democracy, ‘we’ll have to have hands up like at school’ In William Golding’s novel, Lord of the Flies Ralph though not the stronger person, demonstrates a better understanding of people than Jack which gives him better leadership qualities. Ralph displays these useful human qualities as a leader by working towards the betterment of the boys’ society. He knows the boys need stability and order if they are to survive on the island. He creates rules and a simple form of government to achieve this order. Jack does not treat the boys with dignity as Ralph does. Ralph understands that the boys, particularly Piggy, have to be given respect and must be treated as equals. This makes Ralph a better leader as he is able to acknowledge that he was not superior to any of the other boys. Ralph’s wisdom and ability to look to the future also make him a superior leader. Ralph has the sense to keep his focus on getting off the island. He insists on keeping the fire burning as a distress signal. Ralph’s leadership provides peace and order to the island while Jack’s leadership makes chaos. Ralph as the leader on the island shows much initiative. He takes a great deal of control and is usually the first to step up in a situation to benefit the safety of everyone on the island. ’You hunters! You can laugh! But I tell you smoke is more important than the pig, however often you kill one. Do all of you see?’ He spread his arms wide and turned to the whole triangle. ‘We’ve got to make smoke up there – or die.’ This quote displays how Ralph is attempting to maintain order and civilized behavior. By being the first to tell them what to do and by showing initiative and by setting goals for the boys to follow, he prepares practical plans that will help the boys get rescued. He is trying to tell them what do to help save them so they will not die. Ralph also shows an immense amount of initiative when most of the other boys are concerned with playing, having fun, and avoiding work. Ralph decides to build huts as a method of survival. For th is reason, Ralph’s authority and power over the other boys are secure at the start of the novel. This expresses how Ralph has this idea, and stuck with it for the safety of him, and the others on the island. Under Jack’s rule, the boys become uncivilized savages. They have no discipline. Ralph, however, keeps the boys under order through the meetings which he holds. At these meetings a sense of order is instilled because the boys have to wait until they hold the conch to speak. When Ralph says, â€Å"I’ll give the conch to the next person to speak. He can hold it when he’s speaking.† (Golding 36) he enforces his role of leader by making rules and gives the boys the stability of an authority figure, mainly himself. By doing this he wins the boys respect and confidence in his leadership abilities. Ralph uses his authority to try to improve the boys’ society. By building shelters he demonstrates his knowledge of the boys’ needs. When he says to Jack, â€Å"They talk and scream. The littluns. Even some of the others.† (Golding 56) he is referring to why the boys need shelters. They are afraid. Ralph understands that by building the shelters, t he boys will feel more secure. This illustrates his superior knowledge of people, which makes him a better leader than Jack. Jack fails to realize the boys need security, stability and order in their society. Ralph’s treatment of the boys also demonstrates his knowledge of human nature. While Jack considers the boys inferior to himself, Ralph treats the boys as equals. Ralph’s superior leadership qualities are reflected in his constant defence of Piggy. Piggy is the weakest of the group and is therefore treated unfairly much of the time. When Jack hits Piggy and breaks his glasses, Ralph calls it â€Å"A dirty trick.† (Golding 78) This shows Jack’s disregard for other humans; while at the same time demonstrates Ralph’s compassion and ability to empathize with others thus illustrating his understanding of people. Ralph’s â€Å"government† is a form of democracy which gives each boy equal rights and an ability to express themselves. Jack treats the boys, especially Piggy, as inferiors. When Jack gets meat from hunting, he gives everyone some except for Piggy. When Piggy asks for some, Jack says, â€Å"You didn’t hunt.† (Golding 80) Ralph and many of the littluns did not hunt, yet only this treatment is directed at Piggy. Jack’s contempt for Piggy shows his inability to understand people, as a good leader would take care of all of his followers. Ralph possesses this knowledge and is therefore a better leader because of it. Ralph’s common sense and ability to recognize what is best for the group as a whole further demonstrates his superior leadership skills. His main focus throughout the book is getting rescued and he puts much emphasis on this. He instructs the boys to make a fire and to keep it burning as a distress signal. When the boys do not share his enthusiasm for getting rescued, he becomes exasperated. â€Å"The fire is the most important thing on the island. How can we ever be rescued except by luck, if we don’t keep the fire going?† (Golding 88) Ralph’s determination to get rescued is not for purely selfish reasons, but rather, it is in the best interest of the group. When the boys join Jack’s tribe; Jack only satisfies their short term wants and needs, such as the desire for meat. A good leader however, should look to the future and plan accordingly such as Ralph does. Although these choices may not always be popular, the better leader will carry out long term plans. When Piggy says â€Å"Which is better – to be a pack of painted niggers like you are, or to be sensible like Ralph is?† (Golding 199) he demonstrates how the boys; by not following Ralph, have been lead astray by Jack. Ralph’s main priority, which is getting off the island, is a wiser choice than for the boys to follow Jack. Unfortunately, the boys take the easier choice, which is to hunt and play games rather than keep the fire burning. Had they listened to the better leader, the novel may not have ended as tragically. Ralph’s clear understanding of people and their needs make him a far superior leader when compared with Jack. Ralph’s understanding of the boys need for stability and order through government and rules prompts him to improve the society in which they are living. Jack’s society was barbaric and savage and met none of these needs. Jack treats the boys as slaves and inferiors. Ralph’s patience and caring with the boys shows his ability to take charge and rule in an effective, yet democratic fashion. Ralph’s priority to get off the island demonstrates his wisdom and ability to make decisions. Although a good leader may not be as charismatic as a poor one, it is important to choose the leader which will meet the needs of the people. The popularity of an inferior leader soon disappears, yet the wisdom and guidance of a good leader will always remain.