Meta reflection 2 Essay

â€Å"A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions†. We could never go back to the past were what we did has already been done. When we discover new things you don’t see your old thoughts the same way. We add new information that will help us to expand and deepen our knowledge through our understanding the experiences that we had encounter. I saw too many things, I could never go back to being that old me that. I have experience adventures and the taste of life these experiences molds us by being an open minded person. I can never go back to that person who is full of ignorance. I was searching for wisdom and knowledge as possible. When I found them in philosophy I bathe with wisdom and knowledge combining them made a pleasurable account to my life. Applying these new found ideals, and fresh truths to my life adds new impact on my existence. I would not grow but I will surely have the drive, inspiration and motivation to want more of knowledge. My huge amount of ignorance is too big to became a marble, it’s the cause that the essence of my existences that stretches my mind to be active and be an open minded as possible. Change is constant and prior to my experience they have mold me. Many situations had come to my life with a synthetic a priori. I may not know that I all ready had this phenomena. Behind the knowledge I have know is the product of my studies and the cause of my studies, sometimes cramming can help boast the minds ability, push its power to the fullest capacity to acquire new knowledge. I can never surely go back to the quote that I have written to my introduction is that we or our own minds is expandable and learn so many things. the experiences that we all experience is the fact we are living the life of a being in this world that true reality resides and will surely be never disappear Subconsciously we acquire new experiences. Each time we do our routines and the normal phenomenon we don’t mind the fact that we are giving our right choices, our only one choice. It’s risky to live life but with the feeling of love that we feel its worth the fight and risks to live for in this world. The experience we gain is the interpretations of our lived moments in this reality. The beingness of being is the experience of being a being in this reality. We only live once and our mind is the one that makes the decision with our own considerations that we are beings in this reality. Only the wises gets the best of both world. Reality with experience is the main purpose of being in this world. We stretched our capacity and exhaust this mind of ours and gain new knowledge. By stretching our mind we can go beyond the normal capacity of things. The beauty of life is going to take up the challenges and ordeals that it gives us the power to marvel at life. Lived experience of my life is awesome, because I feel being loved, hate, and not taking life seriously. I thought at first life was so simple, I only have in that period of time a small amount of understanding in my existence. Know with philosophy and I am loving wisdom, I made a new decision that life is complex with many things to do and take it at hand. With that experience I can only reminisce the times but I can no longer go back. How could I go back? With a time machine? May be not its only a theory that time travel is possible. I don’t intend to go back to the past experiences my a posteriori was the best so why would I. With everything that I am and everything that I can do is the product of my experiences, they were the stepping stones that could not hit its wall of finality. Experience for me is cant be exhaust because we keep on experiencing from day to day of our life. We can never stop experiencing, it’s a fact I keep on learning and gaining more knowledge than before I know. I and everyone can never go back to the way they were before. We may not be the same as the past. I couldn’t know everything with experience, it’s the philosophers bases of everything that has happened. Without it what could be the progress of the world and the human world. Gaining new knowledge is the transfiguration of us we can’t go back to the dimensions that we once have reside.

Argue for/against Social Networking

When sat down by a man, let us call him ‘Vincent' for now, and asked to contemplate an understanding of modern society how does one react? Obviously ‘Vincent' is looking upon you for a conclusive answer to this, after all, his rather stern look on his wrinkle free, cosmetically moisturised, face, nestled above a ‘Skinny-Fit' tight black suit worn on his gym harassed body, is expecting an answer. However, just as you begin to start an ‘umm..' filled explanation of your personal interpretation to the very meaning of modern society he stops you; reaching into his pocket to silence his buzzing iPhone. â€Å"Sorry about that, just had a new friend request on Facebook, you know how it is†. A response that immediately makes you realize that in fact your flawed theory of modern society is not as you first thought, but is rather sitting across the table from you in Starbucks (one of the select with free wi-fi, of course). Whilst naturally this metaphor is going to be biased in perspective it lays out many of the key features of society noted within the last few, recession deprived years. Major players being incorporated into our everyday life: the need for access to the internet, the surrounding claustrophobia of technology and the nonexistence absence of the likes of ‘Facebook' from our lives. Evidently however this is no such element of negativity in our lives, however could it be? We commit to our jobs, our families and our sharing of information – all freely of course. Alternatives are there, the – somewhat handicapped – benefits system, a life alone and a disconnection from the knowledge of what society is doing as of now. The only reason this newly discovered element makes face into our lives is because we welcome it, embrace it for it's true value for society. Speaking of values: our friend ‘Vincent' happens to be a combined banking-marketing-sales extraordinaire, knowledgeable of course on all products, on the money that we all value so dearly and without a doubt the economy. It is therefore an inarguably brilliant idea to approach him for his opinion on social networking, for us naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ve members of society have nothing to lose and all to gain in terms of knowledge on our own day to day living conditions. Now it is our turn to ask the question, but this is no feat for ‘Vincent' to overcome. This brilliantly presented metrosexual man has his answer already prepared, after all, he knows. ‘Social media is simply the greatest benefit we have made available to us' – the first golden nugget of information we learn. Grasping onto each and every word we have little choice but to beg for an expansion on this idea, wishing not to be kept in the dark about his views. †To people like me†, and I quote, †the social network is the best marketing tool man could create' ‘It allows for us to sell you a product at any time, but not just any product, a product tailored to you via all the information you provide daily†. ‘Tailored' to us? What better a reason could we have than this to enable identification of our lives; after all, modern society moves quickly, saving time in a way alike this is beneficial to all. In no way detrimental? †Socially society has evolved, much in thanks due to social networking† †The electricity used in the use of social networking ultimately ends up benefitting the economy through tax and the likes of† †After all, how else could friend A and friend B communicate with such ease?† I had to stop him there: ‘Vincent' was blowing through my boundaries for enlightenment of brilliance for one day. He has a point, we all think the same whilst reading that. Socially we are all so much closer, universal, able to talk so fluently to one another over text, so flawlessly typed. Nowadays overcoming the boundaries of not seeing the other reciprocates emotions are simple, why one just incorporates a ‘:D' to show joy, or a stigmatic ‘-.-‘. The need for face to face social interaction is less than ever, something we as society naturally embrace, for interaction takes time, and our capitalist motto of ‘time is money' could never be truer. You get the point. Social networking's effect on our lives has been as great as the tone of menace from the strong, metaphorically feminist, business like woman sitting to our right, disgraced at the use of ‘man-kind' and my creation of a ‘man' for the wider metaphor rather than a unisex character named ‘Sam'. Daily we offload information private to us without whole knowledgeable consent, daily we allow for our face to face interactions to be interrupted. These issues themselves are detrimental, but detrimental to modern society? How can something be detrimental to society if it is society?

The Italian Renaissance: Review Sheet

Unit One: The Italian Renaissance Review Sheet 1. People to know: -Savonarola-gained power in Florence in 1494. Exercised strict rule until overthrown in 1498 -Julius II-The Warrior Pope. Led armies against the French and Venetians -Tudors (why powerful? )- Edward IV? Richard II? Henry VII. Used Star Chamber against nobles and Henry VII rebuilt monarchy -Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile (Inquisition why? )-Marriage created union of Spain. Completed Reconquista and Inquisition? anti-Semitism -Charles V/Hapsburg- Holy Roman Emperor. 1521: Habsburg-Valois Wars? Battlefield was often Italy -Mirandola- Oration of the Dignity of Man -â€Å"Renaissance popes†- Became increasingly secular . Nicholas V? Pius II ? Sixtus IV? Alexander Vi? Julius II? Leo X 2. Vocabulary: converses, hermanades, Renaissance, oligarchies, signori, commune, popolo (what did they want? /what was their condition? ), humanism, secularism, individualism, Pragmatic Sanction of Bourges, infanticide/foundling hospitals, Medici Family (how they got their wealth), Quattrocento 3. Art: How artists were viewed, how they viewed medieval past, Michelangelo, Ghiberti, Raphael, Da Vinci, patrons (why support artists? , Brunelleschi (Dome of St. Peter’s), Jan Van Eyck 4. Printing Press: changes it brought, when? Who? 5. New Monarchs: Who supported? Who resisted? , Charles VII of France centralizing efforts, tactics of the English kings (Henry VII and Henry VIII) to gain power, Star Chamber, Ferdinand and Isabella tactics, Iberian Peninsula, War of the Roses 6. Ideas: Vie w of rape in Renaissance; view of black slaves; women in the Renaissance/upper class versus ordinary women; source of wealth of Italian communes 7. Writers: Castiglione (The Book of the Courtier), Machiavelli (The Prince/views), Dante (Divine Comedy), Petrarch, Laura Cereta (women ideas), Peter Paul Vergerio (education), Lorenzo Valla (textual criticism), Boccaccio (The Decameron), Erasmus (In Praise of Folly/ideas), 8. Northern Renaissance: Thomas More (Utopia/ideas), Christopher Marlowe, Nicholas Copernicus (Polish astronomer), How differ from Italian Renaissance? 9. Characteristics of Italian Renaissance: Greek/Roman (Latin), individual city states (list), Florence, secular, civic affairs, curiosity, powerful families, manners/morals, how did it end? , crisis in the 14th C, wars

Should the Egyptian Revolution Have Happened Research Paper

Should the Egyptian Revolution Have Happened - Research Paper Example A_ Administrative corruption B _Financial corruption C _ Political corruption Alhaydar1 Should the revolution in Egypt have happened? Revolution means changing. People do revolution because they gave up from their government. When people become extremely upset from their government, they do revolution. Even though, the governments are strong, the revolution will happen. There are many revolution have happened, and all of it were successful. Revolutions are the thing that can take out the governments. Most Egyptian people thought Hosni Mubarak will not go, and he has power that can suppress any revolution. Although, they were looking at him as holy person, and no one can said no to him. Howe ever, Egyptian citizen couldn’t be silent. The 2011 revolution in Egypt was necessary because of: social discrimination, poverty, restricted freedom, and corruption. Social discrimination is the worst thing in Egypt. Since husny mobark became a president in 1981, Egypt had the social discri mination. There were many kinds of discrimination that happened in Egypt. First kind of discrimination is against everyone who isn’t with national party. The national party is the husnay Mubarak party. Husnay make this party to support him to stay president. Also husnay support them to be rich and have high positions. To clarify, the whole ministers in Egypt are from the national party, and the most members of the Egyptian parliament are from the national party. In 1995 the national party got almost 70% of the seats in the parliament (New York Times).Also, all Major business deals, they have it because they have the decisions and they are partners. For example, Alaa mobarke, the son of the president husnay have a lot of companies with Alhaydar 2 Ahmad AZ who is member in the national party. They have a lot of companies in different sectors. No one can win business deal if these two want the deal. In addition; people are not the same in Egypt. In Egypt they were put the people who are related to the national party in high position, and they prefer them on the people who have degree and that because they don’t want someone don’t like Instrumentality. Education and health is the other kind of social discrimination. In Egypt, the good majors like engineering and medical is not available for every one because they choose the high class sons and they give them that without any Control or legal auditing because their fathers have the decision and they don’t want the normal people become like them. In the health, if the person is not important person, they might let him sleep in corridor because they don’t care about the people live. They have to wait for months just for appointment with doctor. Next, even with the huge number of revenue, the poverty is popular in Egypt. In Egypt is really common that children are asking for money because their parents can’t have enough money to feed them. Also the number of Crimes of theft is high because it is the only solution for them to stay in life. The Egyptian people spend for whole day what another people spend it for cup of coffee .two dollars is what the half of people in Egypt live in (Reske) . In addition, there people who live under the poverty line. The people who live under poverty line means they depended on people to give them what they need, and the number of the people who live under the poverty line is really huge. Moreover, the rate of inflation in Egypt is growing. That means the people who are

BUSINESS STRATEGY Company case report (written document) Essay

BUSINESS STRATEGY Company case report (written document) - Essay Example It was also the first company to offer the well-known curry chicken in a canned form that was convenient. Currently, the company produces a range of Asian and non-Asian beverages. The Asia drinks come in a range of soy drinks, juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas. Specific brands include soya milk, black soy drinks, Laichi, sugar cane beverage, lemon tea, Winter melon, Chrysanthemum tea, Herbal tea and Green tea. In addition to beverages, the company also produces a vast range of culinary sauces. This include canned curry, condiments, culinary paste, spreads, instant noodles and vermicelli, and canned and jar food. These sauces do not contain preservatives. Yeo’s Malaysia delightful selection of refreshing Asian drinks is cherished in every occasion naturally. The company’s authentic taste is inspired by traditional drinks brewed in Asia and its range of thirst-quenching drinks is a delight to customers in many Asian and non-Asian households. The major markets for the c ompany are Malaysia, Singapore, China, IndoChina, Hong Kong, North Asia, South Asia/Asia Africa, Vietnam, US, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Macro environment analysis of the industry using the PEST (Political, Economic, Social and Technology) model. The political environment in Malaysia provides a safe and stable environment for Yeo’s operate in. There are regulations, tariffs and requirements international businesses must conform to operate in Malaysia. Even though the government is liberalizing its tariff regime progressively, products that are in competition with products that are manufactured locally are still highly protected and the company benefits greatly from this. Malaysia is a high export oriented economy and this provides an ideal economic environment for Yeo’s Malaysia to operate in because the company relies both on local and export markets. The country’s economy is well performing and its business regulations, tariffs and requirements are more favorable for local manufacturers. The government also identified food and agribusinesses as the nation’s key opportunities and this has motivated large companies like Yeo’s to develop strong brands and distribution networks. These have led to the accumulation of large economic resources for the company. There are also bilateral trade agreements with between Malaysia and some of its major markets like Australia and this makes business more favorable to the company. The Asian community and the larger Yeo’s market are highly conscious about health and strongly emphasize on safety. In Malaysia specifically, foods and beverages undergo the strict inspection to ensure they comply with the stringiest standards. The company uses no preservatives in its culinary brands and the most minimal in its beverages. Soy products are identified as healthy food. This has favored the operation of the company in Malaysia and ensured company’s products are on the hig hest demand. Yeo’s Malaysia has made and maintained a courageous commitment to technology. The company has undertaken a notable computer development and training as one its major human resource agenda. Analysis of the beverage industry using Porter’s five forces model Porter (1998) identifies five forces that influence an industry. These are supplier power, threat of new entrants, threat of substitutes, rivalry and buyer power. One of the things that present a threat

Electoral College Reform Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Electoral College Reform - Research Paper Example The Electoral College is the system used in the United States to elect its presidents. Generally, an electoral college refers to a set of electors with the mandate to elect a candidate to an office. Members of an Electoral College represent various interest groups or organizations with their votes weighted in specific ways. In countries where electoral colleges are used, the wishes of the general membership of a country or an entity is often ignored since the members of an electoral college are not only regarded as important but also as of the ideal wisdom needed to make better choices than the larger population. Though dating back to the historical times, there are several cases of modern electoral colleges in countries with complex regional electorates, which prefer Electoral College elections to the rather direct popular elections. The United States is perhaps the only modern state in which presidents are elected indirectly through the Electoral College system. In the U.S., the el ectors in the Electoral College represent the 50 states and the federal district of Columbia. However, each state is accorded electors corresponding to its total congressional representation in both houses. In addition to these electors, the non-state District of Columbia has three electors. In the U.S where the law requires one to marshal 270 electoral votes to win the presidency, the Electoral College generally votes for whichever contender wins the popular vote in each state (Bugh 67). This paper explores the reform needs in the Electoral College system used in U.S presidential election. Although cases of conflict with the popular vote are rather rare, having been reported only three times in over 200 years, the Electoral College system has been deemed as requiring reforms despite its being a time-honored system because of its likelihood to conflict with popular vote. Electoral College Reform Proposals Several proposals or reform options have been suggested regarding the need to reform the Electoral College in the U.S. First, the Electoral College could be reformed by altering the organization of the states in the U.S. That is, the territory should be re-divided into equally sized 50 bodies with roughly equal populations. An advantage of this proposal is that it would end the over-representation of small states and the under-representation of big states in U.S presidential and senate voting. Further, this proposal will not do away with the Electoral College; rather, it will preserve and ensure the continued existence of the unique federal system and the Electoral College (Bugh 67). In addition, there will still be a balance of authority among different government levels. What is more, the states should be re-districted after every census. However, there are several challenges and disadvantages associated with these proposals. For instance, local authorities and residents would have to deal with the shifting state procedures and laws. The other reform option s for the Electoral College system in the U.S include direct election followed by instant runoffs, proportional allocation of electoral votes, and direct vote with plurality rule, congressional district method, and national bonus plan (Ross & Will 165). Direct Election with Runoff With or without the Electoral College, instant runoff voting is a highly recommended approach to elections in the U.S. In this system, voters would be required to rank their preferred candidates so that in case no candidate emerges a clear winner and whoever has the lowest number of votes is automatically eliminated. Counting begins again during which second choice votes, which indicate the eliminated candidate as first choice are tallied. This process continues until a candidate with majority votes emerges. This system has the advantage of reducing time and resource wastages. The hallmark of most of the proposed replacements of the Electoral Col

Business Plan Solutions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business Plan Solutions - Essay Example The music retail store can also be funded by informal investors like family, friends, relatives, employees, or colleagues if they are willing to chip-in some of their available money. This possibility of course, is positively related to their support to Rhoda's business venture. More formal sources of equity will be angel investors and venture capitalists. Angel investors are usually affluent individuals who provide capital to small start-up businesses. These individuals often hope for high returns on their investments (Ward, 2000). Rhoda Allegro can also seek equity financing from venture capitalists. Venture capitalists are also individual who supplies capital for the start-up or expansion of a business venture. Like angel investors, venture capitalists are looking for higher returns on their investments than traditional investments. The main difference between angel investors and venture capitalists is that the former is usually equipped with skills in managing a business while the latter is a professional investor. An angel investor is often interested in adding value to the company aside from profiting from his/her investments (Ward, 2000). In summary, Rhoda Allegro's business can be financed by formal and informal sources of financing.

Design of Delay Unit Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Design of Delay Unit - Lab Report Example This means that the pin will deliver only 200mA Pin 6 – this is the threshold pin of the chip. This pin detects two thirds of the rail voltage for it to make a LOW state output only if pin two is in HIGH state. This pin contains a very high impedance and triggers at about 1uA. A 555 timer based oscillator is a circuit that generates highly and clear free running waveforms. The output frequency of these waveforms can be adjusted by connecting an RC circuit with one capacitor and two resistors. This circuits is a type of the general relaxation oscillator which generates square waveforms that are stable. These waveforms can have a fixed frequency of about 500 kHz or it can have duty cycles that are varying from fifty to a hundred percent. Unlike monostable circuits that stops after the pre-set time has elapsed, this oscillator circuit has a re-triggering mechanism achieved by interfacing the trigger input pin two and pin six which is the threshold voltage. This makes the device t o be an astable oscillator circuit. In the above oscillator circuit, pin two and pin six are connected together. This allows the circuit tio have a self-triggering mechanism in each operation cycle. This makes the circuit’s operation a free running oscillator. This circuit is also known as voltage-to-frequency converter. This is because its output frequency can be varied by varying the applied input voltage. These waveforms can have a fixed frequency of about 500 kHz or it can have duty cycles that are varying from fifty to a hundred percent.

Identify Law Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Identify Law - Research Paper Example Of great importance in this study are the states of Washington and New York. The Cellphone and Texting Law is not applicable in the following states; Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and South Dakota. Of great significance in this study will the states of Hawaii and Nevada. The Cellphone and Texting Law is found in the states of Washington and New York; the law is not found in the states of Hawaii and Nevada (Highway Safety Research & Communications, 2011). The state of Washington has two driving laws that are associated with the use of cell phone; these laws began in 2008. The first law EHB 1214 took effect on the same year 2008 and the law has banned text messaging and it has been made a traffic infraction. The ordinance is not on the hands-free but a text messaging total ban. The law has some exceptions and in particular during the emergency situations (DrivingLaws.org, 2011). The second law in regard to the Washington State driving law went into effect in 2008; the law (ESSB 5037) is on the hands free law. The hands free cell phone law forbids the utilization of a wireless device like a cell phone on the ear while driving. The law allows an individual to use the cellphone if the communication is made through a hands free device like a wired headset or a Bluetooth headset (DrivingLaws.org, 2011). The hands free driving law in New York was approved in the year 2001. Ever since the law was passed the New York Police department passed almost 300,000 within the first three years, mostly for those who were violating the first hands free driving law. The law which was effective from November 1st, 2009 prohibited people from texting while driving in the New York (DrivingLaws.org, 2011). The law bans the drivers from using moveable electronic devices (they include blackberries, laptops and cell phones) and any other types of

The Canons of Christianity Essay Example for Free

The Canons of Christianity Essay The 20-something year-old new employee bravely asked her new coworker, Are you a Christian? She had bee taught to be strong in her faith and to not have fear in asking such questions. The coworker replied, No, Im not a Christian. Im Catholic. To this answer, the young female apostolate had not been prepared with a response. She returned home that evening confused and questioning the understanding she had of Christianity. The word Christian means Christ-like, or having to do with the Christ (Random, 2006). The larger umbrella of Christianity centers on a faith which follows the life, practices, and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, who is also called Jesus Christ; meaning Jesus The Messiah or anointed one (Rutgers, 2005). Unlike Judaism, which is segregated only by Orthodox Jews and non-orthodox Jews, Christianity has grown to be segregated into many denominations; all which follow the teachings of Jesus. Some of these denominations include Catholic, Presbyterian, Episcopal, Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, and many others. Because Christianity has been divided by denominations which each practice their faith in some differential manner, there has been many occasion for confusion or misconception. History The history of the Christian faith traces its beginnings back to the creation of the world in the same manner as Judaism. Both these faith traditions, as well as Islam, are monotheistic religions acknowledging one supreme being or deity. The historical background of Christianity is a shared history with Judaism. Many biblical scholars contend that Christianity began as a Jewish sect. Later, the followers of Christ became so numerous that the two faith followings completely severed connection to each other. The two main reasons for this separation are 1) Christianity came to regard Jesus as in some sense Gods presence in human form; a concept that was unacceptable to the Jewish law, and 2) Judaism is defined by a covenant made between God and the Jewish people. This covenant was solidified through the law. Jesus stated that he came to abolish the old law. Jewish faith believes that following the law is what leads to eternal redemption. Abolishing this set of laws would negate the entire foundation of the Jewish faith. In the New Testament scriptures, Jesus says that there is a new law; to love the Lord your God with all your heart, and soul, and strength. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it. You should love your neighbor as yourself (NRSV, 2006). This is the law to which the Christian faith adheres. God, The Creator Being a monotheistic faith, Christians believe there is one supreme deity; being God the Creator. The Genesis story of creation has taken on many interpretations including a very literal interpretation, as well as metaphoric interpretations. In either sense, Christianity believes God created all life. There are vast differences between how faiths view the concept of God. Some envision God as being omnipotent and omniscient and not requiring interaction with human beings. The other end of this perception spectrum would be revealed in pantheism; which does not make any distinction between God and the world. Christianity holds a middle ground in maintaining a necessary connection with the Creator. Another large distinction between Christianity and other faith traditions is the concept of the Trinity. While Christianity holds that there is one God, there is the belief that this one God is represented in the triune presence of God the Creator, Jesus the savior who is God in the physical flesh, and God the Holy Spirit represented as God with the human heart. This triune nature of God has been a concept of controversy for many years. There are believers who wholeheartedly believe in the Creator God, yet have difficulty understanding and accepting the Trinity. One scholar best explains this concept through the analogy of a human being. An individual, being one person, can be the child of their parents, sibling to their siblings, and parent to their own children. In this sense, the individual is parent, sibling and child, being only one person with three identities (Corkland, 2004). Jesus Jesus was born into the family lineage of the house of David; which is documented in the first book of the Bible, Genesis. The first five books of the Christian Bible, the Pentateuch, and the first half of the Christian Bible known as the Old Testament, are the same writings that make up the Jewish Torah. However, this is where the two faiths divide. While Judaism acknowledges the Jewish background of the man named Jesus, the Jewish religion does not acknowledge this man to be the messiah. The birth of Jesus fulfilled many of the prophecies of the Old Testament. Prophets from many years and ages had told of one who would be the promised one, the messiah, the Christ. Purportedly born in a stable because there was no room in the inn, and born of an immaculate conception, Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament. Little is mentioned of the young years of the life of Jesus. The scriptures make reference to the virgin birth, Jesus at an early age of around 12 years old, then the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. This event takes place when Jesus was beginning his earthly ministry; which lasted only 3 years. During this ministry, Jesus called 12 men to follow him and be his disciples. According to the scriptures, these men left their jobs, their homes, and their families and followed Jesus as he taught, until the time of Jesus death and resurrection. Conflict There are many incidents and occurrences within the Christian faith which create opportunity for conflict. Much of this conflict arises from the sacred texts of the Christian faith. Conflicts arise in determining the authenticity of the books of the Christian Bible as well as the authorship of the books. In addition to these conflicts, there is much controversy over the translations and transliterations of the sacred texts. Many scholars of the Bible texts have indicated that the translations from the original text into contemporary verbiage have created inaccuracies and inconsistencies which have allowed these sacred texts to be a source of love and support, as well as hurt, hatred and destruction. Episcopal Bishop John Shelby Spong writes, I had to face openly and admit honestly those things about which most Christians are neither knowledgeable nor aware. I had to document the evil that Christians have so frequently tendered to others in the name of our religion, including the way we have justified violence with biblical quotations (Spong, 2005). Generations have misquoted the Biblical texts to persecute people of specific groups in the name of Christianity and with the Bible being the supporting documentation. In the sermon words of Rev. Kenneth L. Martin, Any text taken out of context becomes someones pretext. Conclusion There are numerous religious traditions celebrated and practiced across the globe. Followers of each religious tradition, regardless of how old the tradition is, have specific foundations and guidelines being adhered to. The followers of each faith tradition believe their tradition is right and beneficial. While the sacred texts of a particular faith, such as Judaism or Christianity, can be back-dated for many years, there remains a contention of the validity of these texts in modern comprehension. There exists no person alive today who heard the spoken words of Jesus of Nazareth. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (NRSV, 2006). This is the basis of all faith traditions, and certainly is inclusive of the tradition of Christianity. References Corkland, J., 2004, The Nature of God, Bantam Publishing, Ch. 7, pg. 148 NRSV, 2006, Mark 12: 28-34, electronically retrieved on October 19, 2007 from http://www.biblebb.com/files/mac/sg2358.htm NRSV, 2006, Hebrews 11: 1, electronically retrieved on October 19, 2007 from http://www.biblebb.com/files/mac/sg2358.htm Random House, 2006, Random House Unabridged Dictionary, electronically retrieved on October 18, 2007 from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/christian Rutgers, 2005, What is Christianity, electronically retrieved on October, 19, 2007 from http://geneva.rutgers.edu/src/christianity/major.html Spong, J., 2005, The Sins of Scripture; Exposing the Bibles Texts of Hate to Reveal the God of Love, Harper Collins, Ch. 1, pg. 13

OLAP Multidimensional Database Concept

OLAP Multidimensional Database Concept CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 INTRODUCTION This chapter is designed to provide background information and reviewing the characteristics of data warehouse, OLAP multidimensional database Concept, data mining model and the application of data mining. Within this research, the concept, design and implementation approaches in developing a complete data warehouse technology framework for deploying a successful model with the integration of OLAP Multidimensional Database and data mining model. Section 2.2 discussed about the fundamental of data warehouse, data warehouse model and also the Extract, Transform and Loading (ETL) of raw database to data warehouse. It includes research and study on existing data warehouse models authored by William Inmon, Ralph Kimball and various scholars venturing into data warehouse models. Section 2.3 introduces background information of OLAP. It includes the studies and research on various OLAP models, OLAP architecture and concept on processing multidimensional databases, multidimensional database schemas design and implementation in this research. It includes studies and research on schema design and implementation. Section 2.4 introduces fundamental information of data mining. It includes studies and research on the available techniques, method and process for OLAP Data Mining. Section 2.5 discussed the product comparisons for data warehouse, data mining and OLAP by Mitch Kramer. It includes the reason why Microsoft is used to design and implement the new proposed model. In this literature review, introduction to the relationships between data warehouse, OLAP multidimensional database and data mining model for deploying four experimental applications for benchmarking. This research also proves that the â€Å"new proposed model† data warehouse technology framework is ready to transform any type of raw data into useful information. It will also help us to review the new proposed model of each existing data warehouse OLAP Multidimensional database framework. 2.2 DATA WAREHOUSE According to William Inmon (1999), known as the â€Å"Father of Data Warehousing†, data warehouse is a subject-oriented, integrated, time-variant, and non-volatile collection of data in support of the managements decision-making process. Data warehouse is a database containing data that usually represents the business history of an organization. This historical data is used for analysis that supports business decisions at many levels, from strategic planning to performance evaluation of a discrete organizational unit. Data Warehouse is a type of database system aimed at effective integration of operational databases into an environment that enables strategic use of data (G. Zhou et al., 1995). These technologies include relational and multidimensional database management systems, client/server architecture, meta-data modelling and repositories, graphical user interface and much more (J. Hammer et al., 1995; V. Harinarayan et al., 1996). Data warehouse currently are much a subject of researched is not only commonly used in business or finance sector but can be applied appropriately in various sectors. Data warehouse are designed for analyzing or processing of data into useful information using data mining tools for critical decision-making. Data warehouse provides access to difficult environments of an enterprise data In these literature studies, two important authors are identified as the main contributors and co-founder in the area of Data Warehouse, William Inmon (1999; 2005) and Ralph Kimball (1996, 2000). Both author perceptions on data warehouse design and architecture differ from one another. According to Inmon (1996), data warehouse is a dependent data mart structure, whereas Kimball (1999) defined data warehouse as a bus structure which is a combination of data mart populated together as a data warehouse. Table 2.1 discussed the differences in data warehouse ideology between William Inmon and Ralph Kimball. Table 2.1 William Inmon and Ralph Kimball Data Warehouse Differences William Inmon Ralph Kimball Paradigm Inmons Paradigm: An enterprise has one data warehouse, and data marts source their information from the data warehouse. Information is stored in 3rd normal form. Kimballs Paradigm: Data warehouse is the collection of heterogeneous data marts within the enterprise. Information is always stored in the dimensional model. Architecture Architecture: Using TOP-DOWN approach Architecture: Using Bottom-up approach Concept Datas integration from various systems to centralized repository Concept of dimensional modelling (Bridging between Relational and multidimensional DB) Design The design pattern dependent on 3rd normalization form, purpose is for data granularity. Datas marts are connected in a bus structure. Datas marts are the union of data warehouse. This approach is known also as Virtual Data Warehouse. ETL Methods Datas extraction from operational data sources. Data are feed in staging database area. Data are then transformed, integrate, and consolidate and transfer to Operational Data Store database. Data are then load to data mart. Data extracted from legacy system and then consolidated and verified in staging database. Data feed into ODS and more data us added/updated. Operational Data Store contains fresh copy data that is integrated and transformed to the data mart structure. Data mart Data Marts are available as a subset of the data warehouse. Data Marts can be placed at different at different servers or in geographical locations. Based on this Data Warehouse literature, both Inmon (2005) and Kimball (2000) have different philosophies, but they do have similar agreement on a successful design and implementation of data warehouse and data marts are mainly depending on the effective collection of operational data and validation of data mart. Both approaches having the same database staging concepts and ETL process of data from a database source. They also have a common understanding that independent data marts or data warehouses cannot fulfil the requirements of end users on an enterprise level for precise, timed and relevant data. 2.2.1 DATA WAREHOUSE ARCHITECTURE Data warehouse architecture is a wide research area. It has many different sub-areas and it can be treated with different approaches in terms or analysis, design and implementation by different enterprise. In this research studies, the aim is to provide a complete view on data warehouse architecture. Two important scholars Thilini (2005) and Eckerson (2003) from TDWI will discussed in more details on the topic on data warehouse architecture. According to Eckerson (2003), before implementing a successful business intelligence systems where users can use programs like specialized reporting tools, OLAP tools and data mining tools upfront, a data warehouse architecture model mainly concentrate on the database staging process from different integrated OLTP systems is responsible for the ETL to the whole process workable. Thilini (2005) conducted a two phase study survey on investigating which factors may influence the selection of data warehouse architecture. In Thilini literature study, there are five data warehouse architectures that are practice today as shown in Table 2.2. Table 2.2 Data Warehouse Architectures (Adapted from Thilini, 2005) Data Warehouse Architecture Independent Data Marts Independent data marts also known as localized and small sized data warehouses. It is mainly used by departments, divisions or regions of company to provide own operational databases. The data marts are different as the structures are different from different location with inconsistent database design which makes it difficult to analyze across the data marts. Thilini (2005) cited the work of Winsberg (1996) and Hoss (2002) that It is common for organizational units to develop their own data marts. Data marts are best used as a prototype for adhoc data warehouse and as for evaluation before building a real data warehouse. Data Mart Bus Architecture Kimball (1996) pioneered the designed and architecture of data warehouse with unions of data marts which are known as the bus architecture. Bus architecture Data Warehouse is derived from the unions of the data marts which are also known as Virtual Data Warehouse. Bus architecture allows data marts not only located in one server but it can be also being located on different server. This allows the data warehouse to functions more as virtual reality mode and gathered all data marts and process as one data warehouse. Hub-and-spoke architecture Inmon (2005) developed Hub and Spoke architecture. The hub is the central server taking care of information exchange and the spoke handle data transformation for all regional operation data stores. Hub and Spoke mainly focused on building a scalable and maintainable infrastructure for data warehouse. Centralized Data Warehouse Architecture Central data warehouse architecture almost similar to hub-and-spoke architecture without the dependent data marts. This architecture copies and stores heterogeneous operational and external data to a single and consistent data warehouse. This architecture has only one data model which are consistent and complete from all data sources. According to Inmon (1999) and Kimball (2000), central data warehouse should have Database staging or known as Operational Data Store as an intermediate stage for operational processing of data integration before transform into the data warehouse. Federated Architecture According to Hackney (2000), Federated Data Warehouse is a integration of multiple heterogeneous data marts, database staging or Operational data store, combination of analytical application and reporting systems. The concept of federated focus on framework of integration to make data warehouse as greatest as possible. Jindal (2004) conclude that federated data warehouse approach are a practical approach for a data warehouse architecture as it is focus on higher reliability and provide excellent value if it is well defined, documented and integrated business rules. Thilini (2005) conclude that hub and spoke and centralized data warehouse architectures are similar and the survey scores are almost the same. Hub and spoke is faster and easier to implement because no data mart are required. For centralized data warehouse architecture scored higher than hub and spoke as for urgency needs for relatively fast implementation approach. A data warehouse is a read-only data source where end-users are not allow to change the values or data elements. Inmons (1999) data warehouse architecture strategy are different from Kimballs (1996). Inmons data warehouse model splits data marts as a copy and distributed as an interface between data warehouse and end users. Kimballs views data warehouse as a unions of data marts. The data warehouse is the collections of data marts combine into one central repository. Diagram 2.1 illustrates the differences between Inmons and Kimballs data warehouse architecture adapted from Mailvaganam, H. (2007) Diagram 2.1 Inmons and Kimballs Data Warehouse Architecture (adapted from Mailvaganam, 2007) In this work, it is very important to identify which data warehouse architecture that is robust and scalable in terms of building and deploying enterprise wide systems. According to Laney (2000) and Watson, H. (2005), it is important to understand and select the appropriate data warehouse architecture and â€Å"the success of the various architectures† acclaimed by Watson. Analysis of this research proved that the most popular data warehouse architecture is hub-and-spoke proposed by Inmon as it is a centralized data warehouse with dependant data marts and second is the data mart bus architecture with dimensional data marts proposed by Kimball. The selection of the new proposed model will use the combination data warehouse architecture of hub-and-spoke and data mart bus architecture as the new proposed model data warehouse architecture are designed with centralized data warehouse and with data marts that can are used for multidimensional database modelling. 2.2.2 DATA WAREHOUSE EXTRACT, TRANSFORM, LOADING Data warehouse architecture begins with extract, transform, loading (ETL) process to ensure the data passes the quality threshold. According to Evin (2001), it is essential that right data are important and critical for the success on an enterprise. ETL are an important tool in data warehouse environment to ensure data in the data warehouse are cleansed from various systems and locations. ETLs are also responsible for running scheduled tasks that extract data from OLTPs. Typically, a data warehouse is populated with historical information from within a particular organization (Bunger, C. J et al., 2001). The complete process descriptions of ETL are discussed in table 2.3. Table 2.3 Extract, Transform, and Load Process in Data Warehouse architecture Process Descriptions Extract Extract are the first process which involve in moving data from operational databases into database staging area or operational data store before populating into the data warehouse. In this stage, operational databases data need to be examined by extracting into the staging area for handling exceptions and fix all errors before it enters into data warehouse as this will save lots of time when loading into the data warehouse. Transform In completion of data extraction in database staging area, it is then transform to ensure data integrity within the data warehouse. Transformation of data can be done in several methods such as filed mapping and algorithm comparisons. Load After extract and transform of data, it is finally loaded into data warehouse (in Inmons model) or into data marts (in Kimballs model). Data loaded into data warehouse are quality data after the process of extraction where erroneous data are removed and data are transform to ensure integrity of the data. Calvanese, D. et al. (2001) highlight an enterprise data warehouse database tables may be populated with a wide variety of data sources from different locations and often including data providing information concerning a competitor business. Collecting all the different data and storing it in one central location is an extremely challenging task where ETL can make it possible. ETL process as depicts in Diagram 2.2 begins with data extract from operational databases where data cleansing and scrubbing are done, to ensure all datas are validated. Then it is transformed to meet the data warehouse standards before it is loaded into data warehouse. Diagram 2.2Extract, Transport, Load Process G. Zhou et al.(1995) emphasise on data integration in data warehousing stress that ETL can assist in import and export of operational data between heterogeneous data sources using OLE-DB (Object linking and embedding database) based architecture where the data are transform to populate all quality data into data warehouse. This is important to ensure that there are no restrictions on the size of the data warehouse with this approach. In Kimball (2000) data warehouse architecture model depict in Diagram 2.3, the model focus in two important modules, â€Å"the back room† â€Å"presentation server† and â€Å"the front room†. In the back room process, where the data staging services in charge of gathering all source systems operational databases to perform extraction of data from source systems from different file format from different systems and platforms. Second step is to run the transformation process to ensure all inconsistency are removed to ensure data integrity. Finally, it is loaded into data marts. The ETL processes are commonly executed from a job control via scheduling task. The presentation server is the data warehouse where data marts are stored and process here. Data stored in star schema consist of dimension and fact tables. This is where data are then process of in the front room where it is access by query services such as reporting tools, desktop tools, OLAP and data mining to ols. Diagram 2.3 Data Warehouse Architecture (adapted from Kimball, 2000) Nicola, M (2000) explains the process of retrieving data from the warehouse can vary greatly depending on the desired results. There are many form of possible retrieval from a data warehouses and it is flexibility that will drive how this retrieving process can be implemented. There are many tools for retrieving the data warehouse, such as building simple query and reporting through SQL statements. The tools may expand to OLAP and data mining, where the structure includes many more third party tools. There are many inherent problems associated with data, which includes the limited amount of portability, and the often-vast amount of data that must be sifted through for each query. Essentially, ETL are mandatory for data warehouse to ensure data integrity. There are many factors to be considered such as complexity and scalability are among the two major issues that most enterprise faces by integrating information from different sources in order to have a clean and reliable source of data for mission critical business decisions. One way to achieve a scalable, non-complex solution is to adopt a â€Å"hub-and-spoke† architecture for the ETL process. According to Evin (2001), ETL best operates in hub-and-spoke architecture because of its flexibility and efficiency. Because of its centralized data warehouse design, it can influence the maintaining full access control of ETL processes. Also, empowers the usage of analytical and data mining tools by knowledge workers. In this study on ETL for effective data warehouse architecture, it is known that Hub-and-spoke is best for data integration as it has the similarity in Inmon and Kimball architecture. The hub is the data warehouse after processing data from operational database to staging database and the spoke(s) are the data marts for distributing data. Inmon and Kimball also recommend same ETL processes to enable hub-and-spoke architecture. Sherman, R (2005) state that hub-and-spoke approach uses one-to-many interfaces from Data warehouse to many data marts. One-to-many are simpler to implement, cost effective in a long run and ensure consistent dimensions. Compared to many-to-many approach it is more complicated and costly. In this work on the new proposed model, hub-and-spoke architecture are use as â€Å"Central repository service†, as many scholars including Inmon, Kimball, Evin, Sherman and Nicola adopt to this data warehouse architecture. This approach allows locating the hub (data warehouse) and spokes (data marts) centrally and can be distributed across local or wide area network depending on business requirement. In designing the new proposed model, the hub-and-spoke architecture clearly identifies six important data warehouse components that a data warehouse should have, which includes ETL, Staging Database or operational database store, Data marts, multidimensional database, OLAP and data mining end users applications such as Data query, reporting, analysis, statistical tools. However, this process may differ from organization to organization. Depending on the ETL setup, some data warehouse may overwrite old data with new data and in some data warehouse may only maintain history and aud it trial of all changes of the data. Diagram 2.4 depicts the concept of the new proposed model data warehouse architecture. Diagram 2.4 New Proposed Model Data Warehouse Architecture 2.2.3 DATA WAREHOUSE FAILURE AND SUCCESS FACTORS Building a data warehouse is indeed challenging as data warehouse project inheriting a unique characteristic that may impact the overall setup if the analysis, design and implementation phase are not properly done. In this research effort, it discusses the studies on failure and success factors in data warehouse project. Section 2.2.3.1 focuses on the investigation on data warehouse project failure and section 2.2.3.2 discuss and investigate mainly on the success factors by implementing the correct model to support a successful data warehouse project implementation. 2.2.3.1 DATA WAREHOUSE FAILURE FACTORS Hayen, R.L. (2007) studies shows that implementing a data warehouse project is costly and risky as a data warehouse project can cost over $1 million in the first year. It is estimated that one-half ad two-thirds of the effort of setting up the data warehouse projects attempt will fail eventually. Hayen R.L. (2007) citied on the work of Briggs (2002) and noticed three factors for the failure of data warehouse project that is Environment, Project and Technical factors as shown in Diagram 2.5 and table 2.4 discussed the factors in more details. Diagram 2.5 Factors for Data Warehouse Failures (adapted from Briggs, 2002) Table 2.4 Factors for Data Warehouse Failures (adapted from Briggs, 2002) Factors Descriptions Environment This leads to organization changes in business, politics, mergers, takeovers and lack of top management support. Also, including human error, corporate culture, decision making and change management. Technical Technical factors of a data warehouse project complexity and workload are taken too lightly where high expenses involving in hardware/software and people. Problems occurred when assigning a Project manager with lack of knowledge and project experience in data warehouse costing may lead to impediment of quantifying the return on investment (ROI). Also, failure of managing a data warehouse projects also includes:  · Challenge in setting up a competent operational and development team plus not having a data warehouse manager or expert that is politically sound.  · Having an extended timeframe for development and delivery of data warehouse system may due to lack of experience and knowledge for selection of data warehouse products and end-user tools. * Failure to manage the scope of data warehouse project. Project Poor knowledge on the requirements of data definitions and data quality on different organization business departments. Also, Running a data warehouse projects with incompetent and insufficient knowledge in what technology to use may lead into problems later on data integration, data warehouse model and data warehouse applications. Vassiliadis (2004) studies shows that data warehouse project failures are an enormous threat and threatened by factors such as design, technical, procedural and socio-technical as illustrated in Diagram 2.6. These factors of failures are vital in finding any unwanted action for success. Each factor group is described in table 2.5. Diagram 2.6 Factors for Data Warehouse Failures (adapted from Vassiliadis, 2007) Table 2.5 Factors for Data Warehouse Failures (adapted from Vassiliadis, 2007) Factors Descriptions Design Design factors in data warehouse project can put up with No Standard techniques or design methodologies. A data warehouse project when doing the analysis and design phase may accept ideas on metadata techniques or languages and data engineering techniques. Also, a proprietary solutions and also recommendations from vendors or in-house experts may define the design of the data warehouse blueprint landscape. Technical Technical factors associate to the lack of know-how experience in evaluation and choices of hardware setup for data warehouse systems Procedural Procedural factors concerning on the imperfection of data warehouse deployment. This factor focuses on training the end-users extensively on the new technology and the design of data warehouse which are completely different than the conventional IT solutions. users communities plays a vital role and are crucial in this factor. Socio-Technical Socio-technical factors in a data warehouse project may lead into problems on violation of organization modus operandi where the data warehouse systems will lead into restructuring or reorganization on the way organization operates by introducing changes to the user community. According to Vassiliadis (2007) also, another potential factors for the failure of data warehouse projects are the â€Å"data ownership and access†. This is considered vulnerable within the organization and one mustnt share nor acquire someone else data as this is comparable with losing authority on the data ownership and access. Also, restrict any departmental declaration or request to own a total ownership of pure clean and error free data as this might cause potential problem on ownership data rights. Watson (2004) stress that the general factors for the failures in data warehouse project success comprises of â€Å"weak sponsorship† and top management support, inadequate funding and users participation and organizational politic. 2.2.3.2 DATA WAREHOUSE SUCCESS FACTORS Data Warehouse Failures can lead into disastrous implementation if careful factors or measures are not taken into serious considerations as discussed in section 2.2.3.1 based on Briggs (2002) and Vassiliadis (2004) studies that may lead into data warehouse failures. According to Hwang M.I. (2007), data warehouse implementations are an important area of research and industrial practices but only few researches made an assessment in the critical success factors for data warehouse implementations. No doubt there is procedure for data warehouse design and implementation but only certain guidelines are subjected for experimental testing. So, it is best to decide and choose the proper data warehouse model for implementation success. In this study on identifying and filling the gap analysis of the data warehouse success factors, a number of success factors are gathered from data warehouse scholars and professionals (Watson Haley, 1997; Chen et al., 2000; Wixom Watson, 2001; Watson et al., 2001; Hwang Cappel, 2002; Shin, 2003) to validate their experimental work and research strength individually on various characteristics of data warehouse success. This study beneficial in planning and implementing data warehouse projects and direct into the success of designing and implementing the new proposed model in this research. There are several success factors in designing and implementing data warehouse solutions and the most important success factors depend on the data warehouse model selection, as different organization may have different scope and road maps in the development of data warehouse. The results of building a successful data warehouse are then used to quantify the factors that are used and also prioritize those factors that are beneficial for continued research purpose to improve and enhanced the data warehouse model success. According to Hayen, R.L. (2007), data warehouse is a complex system which can complicate business procedures. The complexity of data warehouse prevents companies from changing data or transaction which are necessary. It is important then to analyze on which data warehouse model to be used for such complex systems that are sound critical to an organization. Hwang M.I. (2007) conducted a study on data warehousing model and success factors as a critical area of practice and research but only a few studies have been accomplish to measure the data warehouse projects and success factors. Many scholars had conducted a profound research in the area of data warehouse and may have succeeded or failed due to possible reasons based on each scholars outcomes on the research. It is useful inspect a few case studies on a selected companied data warehouse implementation and to experiment the failure and success factors through survey. (Winter, 2001; Watson et al., 2004) Hwang M. I. (2007) conducted a survey study on six data warehouse scholars (Watson Haley, 1997; Chen et al., 2000; Wixom Watson, 2001; Watson et al., 2001; Hwang Cappel, 2002; Shin, 2003) on the success factors in a data warehouse project. Each scholar has different success factors that are measures in a project. Table 2.6 shows the mentioned six scholars survey study on data warehouse, Watson (1997) measures data warehouse success factors, Chen et al. (2000), Watson et al. (2001) and Shin (2003) measures data warehouse implementation factors and Hwang (2002) measures through development and management practices. Only Wixom (2001) as shown in diagram 2.7 measures both Data warehouse implementation and success factors which can be used as a model for a successful data warehouse implementation. Study shown in all 6 scholars review, without having data warehouse implementation and success factors, the consequences of any factors on a data warehouse success cannot be validated. Table 2.6 Factors for Data Warehouse Success (adapted from Hwang M.I., 2007) Study Data Warehouse Success Factors Data Warehouse Implementation Factors Results Reported Watson Haley (1997) Focus on user involvement and support by having a clear and understandable business needs. Using methodology and modelling methods in data warehouse by targeting on clean data. Thus, support from upper management to contribute on the success. N/A Ordered list of success Chen et al. (2000) N/A Focused on exactness and preciseness of User satisfaction by Support and realization of end users needs. Support for end users affects user satisfaction Wixom Watson (2001) Implementation factors include management support, resources, User participation, team skills, Source systems aand development technology which contribute to the implementatio

Dangers With Living in Close Proximity to Power Lines

Dangers With Living in Close Proximity to Power Lines Research Task: ASSESSMENT OF DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH LIVING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO POWER LINES GAËLLE ROBERTSON Introduction There have been several deliberations about the biological effects of exposure to electric and magnetic fields (EMF) and their possible detrimental effects on the health of humans and animals over the years. Illnesses attributed to power lines include abnormal heart pulses, leukaemia, cancers, miscarriages, birth defects, and other conditions that might lead to premature death. Regardless of the conclusions of many studies that find no evident risks, many people remain uncertain about the safety of power lines. The aim of this investigation is to determine and discuss the ethical issues behind power lines in residential areas and whether there are dangers that should be seriously considered. Research Question Are electromagnetic fields around power lines harmful to people living in close proximity to them? Hypothesis Those exposed to power lines in close proximity for long periods of time may obtain health problems however the power lines are not the main cause of the health issue but rather a factor. The reason for this is that there is not sufficient research conducted to prove that power lines are dangerous and that no health programmes have advised people to refrain from living near power lines or protected them from them either. There are many possible risks associated with electromagnetic radiation as it is not only available from power lines but also from apparatus such as microwave ovens, computers, wireless networks and cell phones. However these are more powerful forms of electromagnetic fields that are essentially more detrimental to human health than power lines. Data Research All electricity is generated, transmitted, or used and electric and magnetic fields are created due to the existence and motion of electric charges. (Gledhill, 2014) An electromagnetic field (EMF) has two components: an electric field and a magnetic field. When two objects have a voltage difference between them, an electric field is created. There is an electric field between a power line and the ground below because the power line is at a large voltage relative to the ground. (Nedlands, 2006)The electric field is measured in volts per meter (V/m) or in kilovolts per meter (kV/m). (See Figure 1 below) A magnetic field exists when electric current flows through a wire. Thus magnetic fields surround the power lines conducting current from the power station to residential areas. (Geoff Cackett, 1979)Transformers decrease these high voltages for local distribution to homes and businesses. Figure 1 – Graph indicating the relationship between the Magnetic Field and Distance from the High-Voltage Power Line (Runge, 2011) The magnetic field from a power line can vary extensively because the current in the wires depends on the amount of power expended. In contrast, the electric field from a power line varies very little because the voltage fundamentally remains constant. In general, these fields are time-varying vector quantities categorised by a number of constraints which include their frequency, phase, direction, and magnitude. (Portier, 1998) Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) are areas of energy that are invisible and connected with the usage of electrical power(Birnbaum, 2014)EMFs are characterized by wavelength or frequency into one of two radioactive categories: non-ionizing and ionizing.( See Figure 2 below) High-voltage power lines that transmit electricity expose anything nearby to electromagnetic radiation as they create electromagnetic fields around them. (Goldberg, 2014) Electromagnetic radiation is any form of energy that is sent as waves or rays between two places. Electricity and magnetism are both jointly responsible for many kinds of radiation. (Knapp, 2002) Figure 2 Table indicating differences between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation types (Gledhill, 2014) The strongest EMFs are found around those major transmissioned lines that carry the highest voltages and currents. EMFs are also present around suburban distribution systems that carry large currents but at much lower voltages,. (Nedlands, 2006) Electric and magnetic fields are also different in the way they interact with our bodies. Electric fields have very little penetration, while magnetic fields can penetrate to our inner organs. (Toufexis, 1989) A biological effect is any change that could occur either short term or long term in the physical state of the human body. (Runge, 2011) EMF’s are able to induce the conductive matter of the human body and may result in observed changes in the human health. The epidemiological studies have inspired laboratory research into how EMFs could be associated with cancer. It is generally recognised by researchers that EMFs cannot initiate a cancer. They suggest instead that EMFs may play a part in promoting the growth of an existing cancer. Researchers from the University of Tasmania and Britains Bristol University(See Figure 3 below) found that in a study of 850 lymphoma, leukaemia and cancer related conditions that living for an elongated period near high-voltage power lines increased the risk for these conditions much later in life (Zeman, 2011). However, the British Medical Journal published a paper on the investigation of the effect of 50 Hz magnetic fields on the existence of several types of cancer and concluded by stating that the extremely low frequency magnetic fields of high voltage power lines at typical residential levels do not appear to be associated with an increase in cancer among various adults; this also pertains for the haematological malignancies and for tumours of the nervous system as well as for the male and female hormone related cancers in genitals. (Verkasalo., 1996) As for specific cancer types, the presence of extremely low frequency magnetic fields remains indefinite. Numerous studies appea r to display a weak association between incidence of some cancers and the exposure to power-frequency magnetic fields. The reason for this is that the electromagnetic energy from power lines are of extremely low frequency and therefore low energy. They are evidently different in frequency from ionizing radiation such as X-rays and gamma rays and are non-ionizing. Biological material absorbs the energy from higher-frequency more readily. In contrast, extremely low frequency EMF does not have enough energy to heat body tissues or cause ionization. Generally, the evidence that power line fields cause or donate to cancer is weak to non-existent according to most scientists. Figure 3 – The study conducted by the University of Tasmania and Britains Bristol University produced these results. (Zeman, 2011) According to ESKOM and several other studies, electric fields of the intensity encountered close to power lines, cannot damage crops. (See Figure 4 below) Laboratory studies that expose animals to electromagnetic fields, looking for variations in body function, chemistry, behaviour or general health and have also concluded that they have no effect on the fertility, behaviour, carcass quality, reproduction, meat, milk and egg production or the development of their offspring. (Rayleigh, 2006) Figure 4 – Table indicating results of various investigations conducted on the effects of power lines on crops (Rayleigh, 2006) Disadvantages of power lines in residential areas: Recent studies approve a reported association between eminent long term health risks (e.g. cancer) and proximity to residential power lines, but it is not certain if the observation is coincidental or not. Physical impossibility of any health effect has been argued by scientists due to weak levels of EMFs, while others uphold that the potential health risks should not be terminated. (Zeman, 2011) The World Health Organization (WHO) publications state that EMF such as those from power lines, can also cause short term symptoms such as headaches, fatigue,anxiety, insomnia, prickling and/or burning skin, rashesand muscle pain. (Verkasalo., 1996) Power lines are not visually appealing in residential areas and are more prone to external damage as they are exposed to people living around them. Advantages of power lines in residential areas: House prices are less expensive closer to power lines as people usually look for homes without obstructions. Any technical or maintenance problems are fixed as soon as possible as many people depend on the residential power lines. There is no compelling evidence of health hazards from power lines as many forms or research indicate that some health risks are associated with power lines in close proximity but it does not prove that they are the direct cause of any biological dangers. (Goldberg, 2014) CONCLUSION Therefore there are known health risks that appear to relate to power lines and their electromagnetic fields emitted but no evidence completely proves that biological effects have been conclusively demonstrated to be caused by living near high-voltage power lines. Many scientists believe that exposure to the low-level EMFs near power lines is safe, but some scientists continue research to look for possible health risks associated with these fields. The risks are clearly small if there are any risks associated with living near power lines. References Birnbaum, L. S., 2014. Department of Health and Human Services. [Online] Available at: http://www.niehs.nih.gov/about/od/index.cfm [Accessed 2 August 2014]. Geoff Cackett, R. K. A. S., 1979. Core Physics. In: C. Ratray, ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, p. 211. Gledhill, M., 2014. Electromagnetic fields (EMF). [Online] Available at: http://www.who.int/peh-emf/about/WhatisEMF/en/ [Accessed 2 August 2014]. Goldberg, R. B., 2014. Environment, Health and Safety. [Online] Available at: http://www.ehso.com/ehshome/emf.htm [Accessed 2 August 2014]. Knapp, B., 2002. Visual Science Encyclopedia. In: M. Sanders, ed. Heat and Energy. Danbury: Grolier Educational, pp. 13-14. Nedlands, 2006. Powerlines, Electromagnetic Fields and Health. [Online] Available at: http://www.public.health.wa.gov.au/cproot/1372/2/Powerlines_Electromagnetic_Fields_and_Health.pdf [Accessed 2 August 2014]. Portier, C. J., 1998. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. [Online] Available at: http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/assets/docs_a_e/emf1.pdf [Accessed 2 August 2014]. Rayleigh, R., 2006. EFFECT OF ELECTRICAL FIELDS, IONS AND NOISE. [Online] Available at: http://oregonstate.edu/dept/coarc/sites/default/files/publication/88 DC lines cattle crops (88).pdf [Accessed 2 August 2014]. Runge, K., 2011. Eskom Fact Sheet. [Online] Available at: http://www.niehs.nih.gov/emfrapid. [Accessed 3 August 2014]. Toufexis, A., 1989. Health: Panic Over Power Lines. Times Magazine, 127 July , pp. 40-42. Verkasalo., D., 1996. British Medical Journal. [Online] Available at: http://www.bmj.com/content/313/7064/1047.abstract [Accessed 3 August 2014]. Zeman, G., 2011. Health Physics Society. [Online] Available at: http://hps.org/hpspublications/articles/powerlines.html [Accessed 3 August 2014]. Glossary Plagiarism Checker 1 | Page

July 31, 1976 Colorado :: essays research papers

On July 31, 1976, a violent rainstorm hit the area where the Big Thompson Canyon is located. According to reports the rainfall was falling at an alarming rate of 2† per hour which caused the Big Thompson river to rise and return to its primordial state. This all began when winds from the east pushed very humid air up the mountains. The unstable air continued rising as its water vapor condensed. The winds were less than 20 mph above 10,000 feet that was too weak to move the storm away. Humid high-altitude air combining with weak winds meant the storm pulled into little dry air to weaken the rainfall. Hardly any of the rain soaked into the steep-sided canyon. The river quickly went over its banks, filled with debris that acted like battering rams against downstream buildings and cars. The water then backed up in the canyon’s narrow mouth, in floods, water often backs up as debris piles against bridges. The Floodwater sped up as it squeezed through narrow places was freed when the dam that was formed by debris burst loose. Due to these events, occurring in such a short time the U.S. Army came to rescue 850 people off the tops of homes, canyon walls, and rocks. The flood destroyed 556 homes and 52 businesses. The total damage was $35.5 million to the area; it cost $1 million dollars to remove 320, 450 tons of debris. The storm and flood caused the Big Thompson River to change course in thirty places. The flood killed 144 people and it took the authorities working until mid-September to identify all the bodies. The town felt that most of the deaths occurred due to the lack of a timely warning. To prevent this from happening again they installed a reverse 911 emergency system.

Is American Beef Safe to Eat?- Exploring the Quality of Agricultural St

as Americans we have to be conscious of the foods that we eat that come from the different livestock. Everything that is not a vegetable comes from some form or another of livestock and sometimes we have to wonder; where is the food coming from? If you asked any five year old he would say â€Å"the grocery store†, however as consumers we have to be knowledgeable of the foods we put into our bodies and have good faith that they are coming from quality sources. the cattle industry and government to safeguard the food that we eat. There are already many standards in place, but are they enough? How can we increase the quality of these standards What do we need to be mindful of that decreases the value of these standards What are some of the actions being taken by private industry to ensure quality? Is the government taken the same actions to keep the American consumer safe? United States Department of Agriculture Standards Within the United State there is only one set of standards to grade beef and beef products being distributed interstate. The USDA put these standards in place after the Wholesome Meat Act of 1967 which states that, â€Å"USDA has authority to control movement of unfit meat and meat products and to require poultry products in interstate and foreign commerce to meet Federal inspection standards.† There are seven standards in place for commercial beef sale in the United States; they are on a sliding scale. Excellent quality beef is labeled as prime, which has a high degree of marbling or fat throughout the back, loin, ribs, and rump. Prime beef is going to be mainly used in steakhouses and restaurants throughout the nation. The quality of this particular type of beef is superior to the next standard of beef, choice... ...he different vessels of marketing and production. There are also several options for vaccination depending upon if it is being done prior to weaning the calf or during the weaning process. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Program has gone through great lengths to ensure calves and cattle are being properly vaccinated. They have come up with a program that is conscious to the different financial and economical situations of the rancher. The most basic program is made up of only one shot per cow, and fails to cover the most common reproductive viruses, brucellosis, leptospirosis and campylobecteriosis. However, this basic vaccination is super cost effective, at only $3.11 per cow. The â€Å"best† program covers everything from 5-way leptospirosos, 8-way clostridal toxoid, to Pasteruella hemolytica. This program is almost ridiculous at a cost of $8.69 per cow.

Case Study: Not Just Another Outdoor Company

THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY MM2021: Management & Organization |Case Study: Not Just Another Outdoor Company | Case Scenario The company we are discussing this time, based in Portland, Oregon, was the brainchild of a small group of executives who left big-time jobs at Patagonia, Nike, and Adidas. These individuals shared a belief that â€Å"in addition to generating a profit, companies have an equal responsibility to create positive social and environmental change†.Putting their beliefs into action, the group formed Nau (which is Maori for â€Å"Welcome! Come in†). And Nau is not just another outdoor company! When deciding what Nau was going to be like and how it was going to do business, the founders know they did not want to do things the way they would always been done by traditional businesses. CEO Chris Van Dyke said, â€Å"We started with a clean whiteboard. We believed every single operational element in our business was an opportunity to turn traditiona l business notions inside out, integrating environmental, social, and economic factors†.From design to sales to finances, Nau is driven by these factors. Everything is Nau’s operation has been approached with a sustainability and social justice â€Å"Filter†. In the design area, the company, in partnership with suppliers, developed 24 of its 32 fabrics to be more sustainable and to combine performance and visual appeal. Each supplier, manufacturer, and even Nau itself is bound by a code of conduct. To ensure that all parties are living up to the standards, their actions are overseen by an independent, nonprofit auditing and research firm.In the sales area, the way the company retails its product is also unique. Using a concept it calls a â€Å"Web-front†, Nau has combined the efficiency of the Web with the intimacy of a gallery-like boutique. In the â€Å"store†, customers can try on clothes, but they use self-service kiosks to purchase from the Web . Because in-store inventory is greatly reduced, the stores are small (2,400 squares feet compared to the standard 4,000-plus-square-foot outdoor retail store). This approach saves operating expenses because less energy and fewer materials are used. Good for the planet†¦good for the business.Finally, Nau has a unique financial approach it calls â€Å"aggressive altruism†. The company has pledged 5 percent of sales to charitable organizations dedicated to solving crucial environmental and humanitarian problems. The â€Å"philanthropic gold standard† is 1 percent of sales, and the average among all corporations is . 047 percent. But although the amount it gives is unusual what happens with Nau’s dollars is really exceptional: Nau puts the giving decision in the hands of its customers. They are asked to indicate which â€Å"Partners for Change† they would like their 5 percent to go to.Using this â€Å"conscious choice† process, Nau is â€Å"call ing its customers out, daring them to connect the dots†. Discussions: 1. What do you think of Nau’s approach to doing business? Is it being ethical and responsible? Discuss. [pic] Sources: Nau Website, www. nau. com; and P. LaBarre, â€Å"Leap of Faith†, Fast Company, June, 2007, pp. 96-103. Robbins, S. P. and Coulter, M. (2009). Management. Pearson Prentice Hall. ———————– Each student is required to discuss Question 1 as short essay, i. e. 500 words (as 5% of your continuous assessment).

Succession Planning Case Study

1. What key differences seem to distinguish successful from unsuccessful leadership- succession processes?One major difference in the successful leadership succession process is the how the flow of information works between the current leader, and the one that will soon take over. The new one is groomed along with way, making for an easy transition with few bumps in the road regarding trust with current employees. Grooming an internal source is even better because they already know the ins and the outs of the company. Recent data indicate that only about half of public and private corporate boards have CEO-succession plans in place.This is the case even at giant global companies that have thousands of employees and spend millions each year to recruit and train talent (Cascio, 2013, p. 157). The companies that take the time to do succession planning are the same companies that are growing and thriving despite having any issues with CEOs through the years.On the other hand a company wh o â€Å"flies by the seat of their pants† so to speak, and does not plan for any crisis in the CEO department is found scrambling.3. If leadership succession is so important, why don’t more companies do a better job of it?The prerequisite for organizational growth and success lies in identifying, developing and retaining leaders with the right talents and effectively managing a dynamic succession plan (Gallup, 2013). Leadership transition presents companies with a remarkable opportunity to move forward with a new  understanding of the complexities, challenges, and changes their organization must address (Mamprin, A. 2002).Despite the importance of leadership succession, most companies do not do a better job of leadership succession because at the heart of succession lie personality, ego, power, and most importantly, mortality (Cascio, 2013). Most people in leadership position believe that building a cadre of potential leaders is a sure route to oblivion, failure and organizational death (Cascio, 2013). However, a lack of succession planning can adversely affect an organization in a variety of ways, from the absence of strategic direction to decreased productivity to weakened financial performance (CareerBuilder, 2011).â€Å"According to a new CareerBuilder survey, nearly one-third (31 percent) of companies with more than 1,000 employees said they don’t currently have a succession planning program at their organization. In addition, 50 percent of senior management (CEO, CFO, Senior VP, etc.) and 52 percent of those in a vice president position said they do not have a successor for their current role. The survey was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of CareerBuilder from February 21 through March 10, 2011 among more than 1000 employers with 1,001 or more employees.† (CareerBuilder, 2011)

Healthy Eating Habits and Lifestyle Essay

In today’s American society, many individuals have developed unhealthy eating habits. A study done in 2012 states fifty-two percent of polled Americans thought that doing their taxes was easier than trying to figure out how to eat healthy. There are many things that people look at as hassles to healthy eating rather than looking at the big benefits healthy eating has on someone. Many people think of these issues when they think of healthy eating the cost, the availability of the food, that it is â€Å"hard†, they do not want to diet, and so on. Changing the eating habits of an individual is not as hard as someone would think. Even though eating healthy can save a persons life, Many people would rather look at the â€Å"hassles† to healthy eating because it is easier to do rather than making a big change to their lifestyle. One of the most common things most individuals say is that eating healthy cost too much and the food that is healthy is not always available. Yes during some seasons fruit and vegetables are a little higher in cost. The fruits and vegetables individuals purchase do not have to be fresh produce, they can buy frozen fruits and vegetables during the expensive seasons. Do not buy canned fruits and vegetables though because they are soaked in sodium, preservatives, and high fructose corn syrup. Sure buying fruits and vegetables involves more work than grabbing something from a drive-thru window or even opening a package and cooking it. However, how much work is being sick? Having to go to the doctor and having to miss school or work because eating unhealthy lead to health issues like heart disease, obesity, and possibly even cancer. Yes eating fast food is very convenient and cheap, but eating fast food is more likely to lead to health problems in the future. Eating healthy along with exercise can completely change an individual’s health and wellness. Healthy eating promotes good health that reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and even cancer. Even with the health risks people often make excuses to why they do not eat healthy. â€Å"I  am too busy.† â€Å"I do not know how.† â€Å"I do not want to diet†, These are three of the most common answers individuals say when asked why most people do not eat healthy. Everyone has a busy schedule but if everyone wants to continue to be busy and be able to do the things they like to do, they have to be healthy. Knowing how to eat healthy really is common knowledge. One does not have to go on a strict diet to see healthy changes. When eating healthy do not eat out, only take in little sugar, cut out trans fat, cut out â€Å"nonfat† and â€Å"lowfat† products, and high processed foods. Also when eating healthy having a low-carbohydrate intake is a wonderful thing. Also when eating healthy, lower your carbohydrate intake. A low-carbohydrate intake minimizes sugar and starches and replaces them with foods that are rich in protein and healthy fats. Look for â€Å"real food† which is food that humans had available throughout evolution. Stay away from processed, unnatural foods that have artificial chemicals, these foods can cause you to get sick and fat. Yes most people have cravings for pizza, chips, and other things everyone knows is â€Å"unhealthy†. An individual does not want to deprive themselves of what they want, cheating is common when it comes to eating healt hy, individuals need allow themselves one cheat day a week to eat whatever they want. Though with healthy eating can seem hard at times, it comes with big lifestyle changes that are more that worth it. Eating healthy can make substantial changes to someones health, wellness, and lifestyle. Eating healthy has more benefits than anything even exercise. Someone can exercise everyday of the week and still be considered unhealthy because of what they eat. According to MyDebtDiary, as long as long as an individual eats healthy for eighty percent of the time, an individual can indulge in their favorite foods the other twenty percent of the time. Nate Miyaki gives an example, â€Å"Of nine training sessions and thirty- five meals or snacks geared toward body composition improvement a week, that works out to about 20% accounted to physical activity and 80% accounted to diet.† Participating in regular exercise is very important but does not mean someone should eat unhealthy. Eating unhealthy causes damage to an individuals insides. When someone eats healthy they find themselves less tired and they also find that they have less health issues than someone that eats unhealthy. When an individual eats better they feel better. Put good in, get good out. So the better an indivi dual eats the better, the more energy they have, the more  motivation they have, and they feel better as a whole. Within a week of eating healthy an individual can begin to feel better on the inside. When an individual makes the change to eating healthily they will notice that they feel better and have more energy. There are more ways to eat healthier without having to diet at all. A great food guide for an athlete to follow is the Canada’s Food Guide. According to the guide an individual needs about sixty percent carbohydrates, fifteen to twenty percent protein, and twenty to thirty percent fat in their daily diet. Healthy eating is more than just about what an individual eats and puts on their plate. Healthy eating is also about how an individual thinks about food, what they eat, and how they eat. When eating it is important to slow down while eating and realize that the food that an individual puts into their body is nourishment, not as something to scarf down in between work and kids practices. It is always good to try and eat with other people whenever possible. There are many social and emotional benefits to eating with others, especially for children, and it also allows individuals to model healthy eating habits. Another thing that most individuals forget about is how bad eating i n front of the television and computer is. Eating in front of the television and computer often leads to overeating. One of the biggest causes of weight gain is sleep deprivation. Sleep is a necessity to recovery to feel good, and a good nights sleep has a wide variety of positive health outcomes. The positive health outcomes range from a healthier body weight and a lower stress level. When an individual has â€Å"sleep debt† they can not recover it by sleeping more from night to night. Having a set sleep schedule should be a habit and it is crucial to a healthy lifestyle. When an individual is not exhausted or tired it is easier for sleep patterns to change and those changes can disrupt their schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day allows an individual’s body to create a rhythm for a healthy metabolism and energy patterns. When one is having trouble going to sleep there are many things one can do. Removing stimulating items like phones, television, and computers an hour before bed because the screens can over stimulate and distract an individual and make it ha rder for them to fall asleep. Consuming caffeine after three in the afternoon stimulates the nervous system and also affects sleeping patterns. An individual also should avoid large meal before bed. The importance of sleep should not be ignored. Sleep allows the body and brain to shut down and recover which is crucial for possible health conditions. Sticking to a regular sleep routine allows individuals to wake up with more energy and feel less fatigue throughout the day. When an individual begins to eat healthy, the less natural it feels to reach for a cupcake or a slice of pizza when they get hungry. One should not deprive themselves or force themselves to eat healthy, but an individual should simply make a conscious decision of identifying and respecting what feels best for their body in the long run. When individuals eat healthy, they physically feel good and also feel good mentally as well. Individuals who eat healthy mentally have more energy to go out and do things that care and matter to them. Making the decision to practice healthy eating habits has such significant effects on an individuals in so many ways. Everyone should take action and begin to maintain a healthy lifestyle choices as much as possible. Most people need motivation to change, gain motivation from others, keep a diary, and talk to others when tempted to indulge in unhealthy choices. Eating healthy is not all about losing the ability to enjoy favorite foods. It is about gaining things that will have a life long effect. Eating healthy leads to a longer life, the ability to enjoy real, natural foods, a healthy sense of self esteem, and pleasure of having respect for the body and all that it does. References 11 Facts About American Eating Habits. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2014, from https://www.dosomething.org/facts/11-facts-about-american-eating-habits Belval, L. (2013, December 5). HEALTHY HUSKY: Healthy eating habits. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/docview/1465901308?pq-origsite=summon Braverman, J. (2014, January 26). Illnesses Caused by Bad Diet. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://www.livestrong.com/article/84174-illnesses-caused-bad-diet/ Cho, M. (n.d.). Five Tricks I Used to Beat My Unhealthy Eating Habits. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://lifehacker.com/five-tricks-i-used-to-beat-my-unhealthy-eating-habits-1252241279 Conclusion: Living a Healthy Diet for the Rest of Your Life – Intent Blog. (2009, October 6). Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://intentblog.com/conclusion-living-healthy-diet-rest-your-life/ Daily, I. (2013, February 1). Healthy Eating Habits Acquired. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/docview/1370960686?pq-origsite=summon How to Eat Healthy, Lose Weight and Feel Awesome Every Day. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://authoritynutrition.com/how-to-eat-healthy/ Isacks, K. (n.d.). Weight Loss and Food Diaries | MyNetDiary. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://www.mynetdiary.com/the-new-80-20-rule-a-long-held-rule-in-the-dieting.html Kunz, M. (2013, December 18). Does Exercise Offset Unhealthy Eating? Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://www.livestrong.com/article/548179-does-exercise-offset-unhealthy-eating/ Miyaki, N. (n.d.). The 80/20 Rule of Fitness Nutrition. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://nat emiyaki.com/2011/03/24/the-8020-rule-of-fitness-nutrition/ Sandilands, M. (1999, September 9). Abnormal eating habits ruin health. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/docview/244805140?pq-origsite=summon Smith, T. (2011, December 21). Top 10 Reasons Why We Don’t Eat Healthy. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://patch.com/california/carlsbad/bp–top-10-reasons-why-we-dont-eat-healthy#.VEGgj75H21I Traister, J. (2011, January 17). Pros and Cons for Healthy Food Choices. Retrieved October 27, 2014, from http://www.livestrong.com/article/358976-pros-and-cons-for-healthy-food-choices/

Wal-Mart Sex Discrimination

RUNNIG HEADER: WAL-MART SEX DICRIMINATION â€Å"Always low prices,† is the clever motto used by Wal-Mart to lure its customers into the supermarket. Wal-Mart serves customers and members more than 200 million times per week. They operate under 69 different banners in 27 countries (Frank, 2006). With fiscal year 2012 sales of approximately $444 billion, Wal-Mart employs 2. 2 million associates worldwide. Wal-Mart has created a facade declaring that their low prices have benefited all Americans.However, under its disguise of generosity, Wal-Mart has become an unethical workplace from which the workers, the society, and Americans are suffering. Wal-Mart Sex Discrimination: Dukes vs. Wal-Mart Inc. History of Walmart In the late 1940’s, Sam Walton had a simple but momentous idea. Walton was always looking for deals from suppliers. He realized he could do better than other retailers by passing on the savings to his customers and earning his profits through volume (Frank, 2006 ). This formed a cornerstone of Walton’s business strategy when he launched Wal-Mart in 1962.The decade that began from the 1970s was period of substantial economic growth, in the history of Wal-Mart. In 1971, it started off a huge expansion by opening a gigantic center and also a home office in Bentonville, Arkansas (â€Å"Sam Walton†). The 70s decade saw a substantial rise in the number of employees which amounted to about 1500 associates. 1975 the company had expanded to 7500 associated and had 125 operational stores. In 1977, in a massive takeover, Wal-Mart acquired the Hutcheson Shoe Company and also introduced a branch for pharmaceuticals by the name Wal-Mart pharmacy.By the end of the decade, Wal-Mart had become a giant in the American retail industry with a turnover of more than 1. 248 billion dollars in sales and 276 stores managed massive yet efficient staff of 21, 000 associates. When Walton died in 1992, the adjustment to a post-Sam environment proved diffi cult (â€Å"Sam Walton†). Although Wal-Mart executives had emphasized for years that their company depended on a set of principles and habits more than it did on any one person, Walton's death wound up marking a fateful shift in how the company was perceived.Before his death, Walton witnessed the rise of Wal-Mart becoming the biggest corporation of this nation and the world. However, he was unable to see the steady path of its destruction. Throughout its path to success, Wal-Mart has turned into a selfish vendor who has forgotten morals, ethics, and mainly America (Frank, 2006). However, the dependency of customers on Wal-Mart is so high that it is impossible to challenge their ways. Walton’s Wal-Mart has turned into dominating supermarket by crushing the rights of their employees, by destroying the jobs of many Americans, and by changing of the quality of life in the American societies.Sex Discrimination According to our book, surface-level diversity is the observable demographic and other overt differences in people, such as their race, ethnicity, gender, age, and physical capabilities (McShane ; Von Glinow, 2011, p. 21). Sex discrimination is part of surface- level diversity. Discrimination usually occurs when actions of an employer, supervisor or coworkers â€Å"deny to individuals or groups of people equality of treatment which they may wish. â€Å"( Stainback, Ratliff, ; Roscigno, 2011) Dukes vs. Wal-Mart Inc.In 1986, Walton was sensing some pressure to appoint a woman to Wal-Mart's all-male board (Frank, 2006). So he offered the job to Arkansas' first lady, one Hillary Clinton, who accepted. She would later quote Walton's pitch: â€Å"I think I need a woman; would you like to be her? † Today, Wal-Mart's challenges in the field of gender equality are not so easily addressed. The company keeps its payroll costs down by paying women less than their male counterparts for performing the same work. Evidence also exists that it fails to promote women at the same rate as men.In 1995, Betty Dukes took a job at a Wal-Mart near San Francisco, working as a cashier and greeter for $5 an hour (Frank, 2006). A â€Å"greeter† represents the face of the company as consumers walk through the door. Little did Dukes and Wal-Mart know that Dukes would ultimately become a face of Wal-Mart nationally, under much different circumstances. In 2000, Dukes found herself denied promotions filed a sex-discrimination suit. â€Å"The suit alleges that Wal-Mart violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), is the biggest employment discrimination case in the history of the United States.Furthermore, the suit hastens an eventual trial for women, who are seeking billions of dollars from Wal-Mart† (Hagen, 2011). The case now involves nearly two million women, and, in 2004, it was certified by Judge Martin J. Jenkins, of the United States District Court in San Francisco as a class action. Title VII prohibits empl oyment discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. When the victim suffers a tangible economic detriment, such as termination or demotion, the employer is strictly liable under Title VII. (Lavin ; DiMichele, 2012).Discrimination is a difficult thing to prove. According to numbers compiled in 2003 by the plaintiffs, female store managers average slightly under $90,000 in annual income, while their male counterparts average slightly over $100,000. And while women make up 79 percent of the store's department heads (an hourly position), only 15. 5 percent are store managers. When the Supreme Court dismissed Dukes vs. Wal-Mart due to the complexity of proving such a large number of claims to be true, Wal-Mart likely believed that it could close the door on that decade-long (Levine, 2008) .However, Dukes and her peers haven’t given up, almost 2,000 current and former female employees across the country have filed gender discrimination complaints w ith the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Of the 1,975 EEOC complaints, the largest number of complaints came from Florida, with 284 filings, followed by Alabama with 142 filings and Georgia with 119 filings. The EEOC complaints preserve the women’s right to sue Wal-Mart for gender discrimination in pay and promotions, despite the dismissal of the Dukes class.Till this day, the women are still fighting this long battle and hoping it gets settled soon. Wal-Mart is Labeled as â€Å"Cheap† Wal-Mart is legendary for its cheapness across its operations. Wal-Mart forces its executives to share hotel rooms when they travel at their expense. The allegations do seem to whole some kind of truth to it. Wal-Mart single-minded devotion to lower prices, one might predict that they would only engage in employment discrimination to the extent that it serves efficiency goals. â€Å"A company that prioritizes low prices might lawfully provide limited benefits and pay low wages across the board.Such a company might also commit widespread, nondiscriminatory labor violations if it thought that the benefits of such violations would outweigh the probability and costs of detection. Thus, the charges of overtime violations that led to Wal-Mart's federal and state settlements are fairly unsurprising† (Wexler, 2011) A company desiring low labor costs might also engage in so-called rational discrimination by excluding or disfavoring workers who are accurately forecasted to raise costs for the company (Wexler, 2011). Some evidence suggests that Wal-Mart does in fact engage in such practices.In particular, Wal-Mart settled several disability discrimination cases in which it was charged with using pre-employment questionnaires to screen out employees with medical or other disability-related issues. Even after the entry of a 2004 consent decree in a class action disability discrimination case, over one-hundred plaintiffs have filed new charges contending th at Wal-Mart fails to provide reasonable accommodations, fires disabled employees, and uses a â€Å"leave of absence† bait-and-switch to force disabled employees out. ConclusionEthics plays a huge role in this decade long battle. One ethical principle that stands out to me is Distributive Justice. It’s a principle which suggests that people who are similar to each other should receive similar benefits and burdens; those who are dissimilar should receive different benefits and burdens in proportion to their dissimilarity (McShane ; Von Glinow, 2011, p. 53). The case, deals with distributive justice. I believe that everyone should be paid the same if doing the exact same job, regardless of gender.Women works just as hard a man if not harder in the corporate world. References. Awards. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://corporate. walmart. com/our-story/awards Hagen, W. (2011). Dissection and Analysis of the Recent Cases on Employment Discrimination Under Title VII of the Civi l Rights Act of 1964. Employee Responsibilities ; Rights Journal, 23(3), 171-186. doi:10. 1007/s10672-010-9163-x Frank, T. A. (2006, April). Everyday low vices. Retrieved from http://www. washingtonmonthly. com/features/2006/0604. frank. html McShane, S.L. , and Von Glinow, M. A. (2010) Organizational Behavior, 5th Edition, McGraw-Hill/Irwin, New York. Lavin, H. S. , ; DiMichele, E. E. (2012). Are You My Supervisor? : The Scope of Supervisory Authority Under Title VII. Employee Relations Law Journal, 38(3), 89-94. Levine, D. (2008, September 21). Walmart gender discrimination lawsuit allowed to proceed, judge says. Retrieved from http://www. huffingtonpost. com/2012/09/22/walmart-gender-discrimination_n_1905204. html Sam walton. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://corporate. almart. com/our-story/heritage/sam-walton Stainback, K. , Ratliff, T. N. , ; Roscigno, V. J. (2011). The Context of Workplace Sex Discrimination: Sex Composition, Workplace Culture and Relative Power. Social Forces, 89(4), 1165-1188 Wexler, L. (2011). WAL-MART MATTERS. Wake Forest Law Review, 46(1), 95-121. Appendix * In the past 5 years at Walmart stores in the U. S. : * Female co-managers have increased by 143% * Female store managers have increased by 46% * Female market managers have increased by 49%