Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Gender Differences Towards Work Life Balance Social Work Essay Essay Example

Gender Differences Towards Work Life Balance Social Work Essay Essay Example Gender Differences Towards Work Life Balance Social Work Essay Essay Gender Differences Towards Work Life Balance Social Work Essay Essay 4.0 Introduction: The findings and analysis nowadayss all the information that was gathered based on the methodological analysis employed in the earlier chapter. The function of this chapter identifies findings which had revealed and explained employees understanding and perceptual experience towards work-life balance incorporated within MEGA through analysing informations. Gender Differences towards work-life balance: Balancing work and non-work committednesss requires clip direction which could be a spot of a challenge. The diagram below illustrates such comparing between both genders. Findingss on the mean degree of employees able to equilibrate work and household life duties on a hebdomadal footing revealed that bulk of the respondent indicated that they are rarely able to equilibrate both. The consequences were given from both genders where the 35 per centum of respondent that chose that they seldom are able to equilibrate both were adult females as opposed to the balance answered yes they are ever able were work forces. : The research worker findings had revealed that seemingly adult females tend to be the 1s that fundamentally are rarely capable of accomplishing work-life balance on a hebdomadal footing. Besides the diagram shows that work forces are better able to hold a better work-life balance whether it is frequently or ever as compared to adult females. Furthermore in add-on from the questionnaire another determination was analyzed where it was revealed that from both genders the mean is higher in adult females who have kids compared to work forces. Figure illustrate that the adult females within MEGA has the higher figure of kids as against work forces who has twice as least. Besides analysing the information in figure ( ) there are three times more adult females than work forces working in MEGA. The research worker analysis is drawn upon that the anticipation rate of adult females is higher to see struggle seeking to equilibrate both work and household duties as opposed to work forces within this peculiar organisation is because there are more adult females working in MEGA as against to the figure of work forces employ. Causes of Work-Life Balance Conflict The causes of work-life struggle were analyzed by the research worker to happen out the ground behind it. The research worker findings were nt a spot surprise by the consequences from employees. From the figure, the research worker found out that the major causes of struggle between equilibrating work and personal duties was associating to these four factors within MEGA. The job-relating factor that influences work-life struggle the most was deficient flexibleness in the workplace. Eighty-nine per centum ( 89 % ) of employees responded that they had troubles equilibrating work and personal life duties as a consequence of non holding adequate flexibleness as compared to 67 ( 67 % ) was other conducive factor. Timing of meetings/training was the least whereas working long hours was minimum. Participants were asked to bespeak which of the undermentioned hinder you in equilibrating your work committednesss in the workplace. Figure ( ) depicts the findings on the relevant classs that hinder employees work accomplishment. An scrutiny of the chart point out that caring for kids at been scored highest where 63 per centum of respondent imply that this issue hinders them to accomplish work committednesss. Followed by a close responds to other and leisure clip activities where 23 per centum indicated other and 18 per centum imply leisure clip. The balance answered farther instruction. The participated directors and supervisors were so asked to depict the importance of work-life balance within the organisation. Based on the replies given by directors and supervisors to depict the importance of work life balance, all participants agreed 100 per centum that there is positive result for holding reconciliation in the organisation. They all relate work-life balance as agencies of helping employees to cut down emphasis degree which in bend would present significant high productiveness, occupation satisfaction and some degree of committedness to the organisation. The research worker analysis of the causes of work-life balance struggle is related chiefly to deficient flexibleness in the workplace. The consequence suggests that employees do nt hold a job working long hours or overtime. However possibly if employees are/were given sufficient flexibleness to pull off both duties tend them would be more likely to minimise work-life struggle. As Robertson ( 2007 ) stated in the literature reappraisal, organisations that offer flexibleness in the workplace give employees the advantage to hold good balance between both duties whereas germinating to healthy employees and in return healthy employees are good for concern sequence. Conversely taking attention of kids has been pointed out to be the most important hinderance factor for employees to accomplish work committednesss in MIC. As Hudson ( 2005 ) stated earlier that employees are more likely to be less productive, less committed and extremely decisive of go forthing the administration once they are sing increased emphasis due to work/life conflicting issues and are perceived of holding no control over equilibrating work and non-work demands. To be of the same sentiment the writer analysis is drawn upon where directors and supervisors all understand the importance of integrating work-life balance in the workplace. All respondents had coincided with Hudson ( 2005 ) statement of employees degree of positive result to organisation. Policies On the questionnaire, employees were asked if they presently use any of the work-life policies provided by the organisation. The writer received 100 per centum of all respondent replying that they all use work-life policies that are provided by the organisation, nevertheless it is a inquiry of how do they use such policies. Another inquiry was implied inquiring if employees were given blessing of such work-life policies provided by the organisation. Question Yes No Are you given blessing of work-life policies 83 % 17 % Out of one hundred 83 per centum stated that they are given blessing whereas the staying 17 % had imply that they are non given any blessing. Directors and supervisors were asked what is the organisation typical manner or tools used for helping or advancing work-life balance. From the interview, the writer found that there are work-life policies implemented within MEGA, nevertheless there are merely a few. Employees are given six ( 6 ) yearss which is applicable as insouciant leave to help with personal errands merely at director s discretion of allowing blessing. In add-on flexible workings hours are administered where employees can get down work from 7:30 ante meridiem 8:30 a.m. where they are allow A? hr and finish work between 3:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. in the interim employees must work 7A? hours per twenty-four hours. However employees are required to work back their hours by the terminal of the hebdomad in the event that they request time-off or does non work the needed sum of hours per twenty-four hours. From the questionnaire, employees were farther asked to what widen do the work-life policies make a difference with equilibrating work and personal issues. From the findings, it revealed from the figure ( ) that 22 per centum answer saying that it made little difference whereas 53 per centum of respondents indicated that the work-life policies implemented within the organisation makes no difference towards their day-to-day duties. An probe into MEGA employees attending records was examined from 2009 to 2010 to do a comparing for how many insouciant leave was taken and to bespeak if there was any tendency. Figure ( ) illustrate such findings for both old ages. The standard divergence of yearss taken by employees was 23.00 in 2009 and 23.87 in 2010. The figure besides shows that bulk of employees utilized the full sum of insouciant yearss which is six ( 6 ) for both 2009 and 2010 followed by the use of five ( 5 ) insouciant yearss. With letter writer to insouciant leave, from the interview directors were asked how the work-life policies and processs implemented for employees are. Again from the interview the writer findings had revealed assorted respondents from both directors and supervisors. Apparently employees are granted insouciant leave and flexible clip based on each section and directors discretion. In add-on to the findings during the interview participants were asked if there are any sorts of punishment or negativeness towards employees who avail such policies. Again this inquiry was answered in conformity to each section director. Majority of the directors explain that employees are non hinder from calling patterned advance or promotional accomplishment nevertheless employees must work back the clip that are required to work, to finish deadlines and deficit of employees. If employees are non subjective to such regulations there would be a decrease in their wage. Supervisors viewed the same responds bespeaking understanding to the directors. However supervisors stated further that employees are kept back from promotional development in MEGA based on their attending records non by such single parts and committednesss to public presentation. Based on the findings relevant to the work-life balance policies incorporated with MEGA, the writer analysis is interpreted as there are work-life policies implemented within the organisation, nevertheless the methods used to help employees is non well sufficient to carry through with such balance of work and personal life duties. Yes employees are given flexible on the job clip nevertheless 1 hr difference is non considered as a drawn-out clip to advance it as a method for work-life balance. Besides the flexible on the job hours does non do much difference to bulk of the employees. Employees who have such powerful policies to help them with work outing work-life struggle are more likely to cover with equilibrating both issues easier. Galinsky and Stein ( 1990 ) found that employees who have the power to work out work jobs were likely to endure lower emphasis and felt their occupation caused less intervention with their life. Furthermore even though employees are given blessing of such work-life policies, the permission of blessing of policies are pattern otherwise in each section. In add-on to cover with such work-life challenges bulk of the employees result to the use of all or most of their insouciant leave. To a farther extent, the findings draw that direction resent employees of using such policies. As already explained in the literature reappraisal use of work-life policies can be perceive a factor correlated to less occupation security and negative calling patterned advance ( Rodbourne 1996 ) . Pull offing Balance: Directors and supervisors were asked to depict the importance of work-life balance. The mean respondent by directors and supervisors provided comparatively the same reply where they understood that work-life balance is a manner of being able to equilibrate both the demands for work committednesss and personal life duties as a agency of mundane place. Do you believe if employees have good work-life balance the organisation will be more effectual and successful? Employees were asked that if employees have good work-life balance if the organisation would be more effectual and successful. Figure indicate the respondent from employees pertain to the inquiry. Based on the respondent the bulk of employees answered yes to that inquiry. In fact findings revealed that 90 % of employees strongly believed the organisation would be more effectual and successful if the employees have good work-life balance. Furthermore based on the inquiry asked, employees were besides asked to stipulate on the same inquiry how the organisation would be successful based on their reply whether the reply was yes or no. The bulk of the respondent who answered yes had fundamentally the same response. Majority of the respondent answered by connoting that if employees have good work life balance employees tend to work more expeditiously whereby the degree of productiveness would decidedly increase because employees are less overwhelmed and would be able to concentrate better. The qualitative findings of employees acquiring good work-life balance in the workplace were questioned. What could the organisation do to assist employees equilibrate both work and household life committednesss? There were assorted positions expressed towards organisation aid with work-life balance. Average respondents had expressed that the organisation could be more considerate by admiting that as employees they experience challenges beguiling both committednesss by seeking to suit of import household assignments and demands for work deadlines. The stances by employees had pointed out besides that the organisation should offer more flexibleness in footings of accomplishable flexible working hours. One respondent stated that organisations should be a spot flexible for the viing duties of acquiring the childs ready for school, going to work, long hours of engorged traffic, picking up the childs from school and acquiring place tardily at eventides Monday to Friday . While other respondent stated that direction demand to be more indulgent towards employees using such work-life policies that are implemented within the organisation. Based on the available replies that was collected through the usage of this inquiries employed, it inherently seems that the organisation would profit by become successful and more efficaciously from using good work-life balance. Both directors and supervisors already have an apprehension of what is work-life and the importance of integrating. In fact from the literature reappraisal Tourn ( 2007 ) had imply that the organisation can profit from work-life balance where the returns would be additions of productiveness, lower turnover rate and trueness from employees. Besides Thompson et al. , ( 1999 ) , had implied the same construct. If organisations can non further good work-life integrating so employees sing both private and work emphasis will probably to endure from low concentration and in the terminal lower productiveness ( Thompson et al. , 1999 ) . The greatest benefit for a good work-life balance to be effectual and successful is in fact suggested that the organisation promote such executing. So it is safe to connote that the grounds speaks for itself. Support for Work-Life Balance Further to the findings, during the interview participants were asked to depict the present work environment place with respects to employees parts, degree of productiveness and committednesss to the organisation. Almost five out of six of the directors explained the present work environment as remotely satisfactory because there is teamwork amongst employees for acquiring the work done and most of the clip deadlines are achieved. One director explicitly describe the work environment as imbalance because often employees are describing ill whereas work duties have to delegated to a section that is seen as deficit of employees. Supervisors besides viewed this inquiry otherwise by connoting that there is sensible dissatisfaction in the workplace because employees are somewhat frustrated and tends to completed merely what is necessary on a day-to-day footing. Furthermore supervisor described it as unbalance satisfaction because employees are describing tardily or vomit often doing overl apped of their duties to other employees that are present. From the replies given the research worker draws analysis that the work environment as per se imbalance. Employees are told to take on add-on work duties added to their regular occupation demand because some employees are often describing sick. Furthermore respondents were asked to bespeak which of the following in figure ( ) help them towards equilibrating work and household committednesss. Based from the figure shown below, a frequence per centum of 44.7 per centum unwrap that the usage of work-life leave available within MEGA was the 1 to assist with the balance of both work and household committednesss. Besides on farther appraisal 32 per centum of the respondents get support from household members followed by a close scope of 31.2 per centum of support from their supervisors. However statistical happening discover that the participated respondents had specified that the least sum of work-life balance support are from directors by a 16.5 per centum. Besides to add to work-life struggle, from figure ( ) it has been understood that employees employed within MEGA do non obtain full support from theirs directors. As the research worker callback from the literature reappraisal, employees who have family-supportive directors and work in organisation that offers family-friendly enterprises tends to remain with the organisation ( Powell 2010 ) . Participated directors and supervisors were asked during an interview done individually, how directors and the organisation presently stress work-life balance in the workplace. Answers from both directors and supervisors were slightly a assorted viewed from the interview. The directors explained that employees are given support where employees can near the directors with emphasis associating to experiencing overworked and personal issues for the directors are worlds and have household lives besides. However supervisors begged to differ from directors acknowledgment. Supervisors stated that directors are remotely negative towards employees particularly when it comes to jobs that are non really work-related. From the findings it seems that directors had implied that they are supportive towards employees when in fact they are nt. Employees and supervisors have both agreed that directors are inflexible towards their employees in the workplace. As Herlihy A ; Maiden ( 2005 ) suggested that in order for employees to be effectual at work, directors themselves need to be able to do alone parts to the administration that lies within the contexts of their ain personal status. So it is apparent that directors themselves need to hold an instability in work and personal life issues in order to lend and be to the full support ive of work-life integrating. Overall Discussion From the whole findings that were questioned and examined by the writer, the consequences underline some really importance relationship and differences between the work-life policies and execution with regard to both employees and the organisation. Management already have a clear apprehension of what is work-life balance is and the high importance of advancing work-life in the workplace. Management someway believe that the organisation have work-life policies incorporated within the workplace that would help employees but based on the research done about work-life balance, those methods used by MEGA are non sufficient and good foster to help with equilibrating work and life issues. MIC full organisation work force consists of bulk of adult females employ compared to the work forces and bulk of the adult females has more than 1 kid. Friedman A ; Greenhaus ( 2000 ) already noted that adult females make up half the work force in organisation and is increasing in higher degrees. Amongst the gender difference most adult females in MIC are rarely able to equilibrate both their work and household life on a regular footing. However despite the spread in the gender difference, employees by and large are dissatisfied with working agreement of work-life balance carried out in the organisation. Almost the whole of direction perceived the present work environment as balance where employees degree of committedness and productiveness are satisfactory, nevertheless the supervisors are non 100 per centum in understanding with the degree of parts achieved by employees. The findings from the questionnaires answered by employees besides incline grounded analysis that MIC present work environment is non every bit balance as direction perceptual experience towards it, the writer is in understanding with the employees and supervisors responds. Consequences suggest that the two chief factors associated to work-life struggles within MIC are deficient flexibleness and working overtime. In relation to this employees non have a job with working overtime nevertheless flexibleness needs seting to help them to accomplishing balance with work and personal life demand. Thomas and Ganster ( 1995 ) found that proper scheduling which gave a group of employees more control over their clip had in fact cut down struggle between work-life duties. In add-on employees major hinder for accomplishing work within MIC is taken up by the duties of taking attention of kids, other personal duties and leisure clip. Given the findings of employees using such policies direction are negative towards employee for subjecting to such action. In this respect, Hein ( 2005 ) had explain that employees tend to be hesitating to continue to utilize them because of calling concerns or the fact that they receive negativeness from line directors and tends to deter them from utilizing it. The importance of supportive work environment chiefly from MIC direction is what employees are qualifying on. The consequence found that employees get a batch of support from household members and supervisors nevertheless employees are non to the full supported by some of direction where they receive negative attitude and bitterness from direction. The organisation foster supportive measuring to suit employees yet for bulk of employees some departmental civilization is embodied in the attitudes and behaviors of their immediate line director. Such support from directors mitigates the negative effects of work-life struggle happening. Employees who have family-supportive directors and work in organisation that offers family-friendly enterprises tends to remain with the organisation ( Powell 2010 ) . hypertext transfer protocol: //www.bia.ca/articles/AReportontheImportanceofWork-LifeBalance.htm hypertext transfer protocol: //www.eurofound.europa.eu/ewco/2009/09/IE0909019I.htm hypertext transfer protocol: //www.healthatwork.org.uk/pdf.pl? file=haw/files/Work-lifeBalance.pdf

Saturday, November 23, 2019

A Tale of Two Cities Theme essays

A Tale of Two Cities Theme essays Ironically, the theme of A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens has nothing to do with geographical distance or size, as suggested by the title; rather it is predominately about resurrection. Throughout the novel, resurrection plays a vital role in the plot of the story that adds to its appeal. One must note however, that the theme of redemption and rebirth are closely tied with resurrection. The theme of resurrection is first portrayed in Book I with the phrase recalled to life. This phrase indicates Dr. Manettes release from 18 years of solitary confinement, which commences the plot of Dickenss story. Lucie Manette, the daughter of Dr. Manette, then nourishes her father back to his right state of mind, resurrecting him from his psychological difficulties. The theme of resurrection is exemplified even more in Book II. Jerry Crunchers nighttime job of grave robbing directly illustrates the theme; he literally raises people from the dead. With the acquittal of the jury, Charles Darnay is resurrected from his seemingly inevitable fate of torture and death. Roger Cly is given another chance to live when he fakes his own death just like the aristocrat, Foulon. Sydney Cartons life and spirit is resurrected by Lucies compassion as stated in the following quote: ...I wish you to know that you have been the last dream of my soul... that the sight of you and your father...has stirred old shadows that I thought had died out of me... (Bk. II, Ch. 13, p. 154) Furthermore, Darnays identity as an Evrmonde, a hated name throughout France, is resurrected, stirring up the old fears and mental state in Dr. Manette. In Book III, Sydney Cartons heroic sacrifice is the best example of resurrection. Under the blade of the guillotine, Carton says, I am the Resurrection and the life, saith the Lord; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and wh...

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Gambling in Japan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Gambling in Japan - Essay Example With around more than 4000 casinos worldwide, they currently are illegal in Japan; however, the prospect of having casinos established in Japan is not as alien as some people might think it is. Casinos are just a place located in hotels, restaurants, tourist spots and even cruises that accommodate all the gambling activities under one roof. Casinos are not virtual in Japan but this is the country that originated some of the famous game such as keno; online gaming facilitates this game service. Q1) The governor of the ultra right-wing Shintaro Ishihara of the Japanese government has been trying to make casinos legal in Japan (Yang, 2006). If he becomes successful, Japanese can themselves invest in such casinos and form wholly-owned casinos of their own. However, keeping the current dilemma of the Japanese government of legalizing casinos in mind, it is easy to conclude that no Japanese will be ready to invest all his capital in such a risky business. Considering the fact that Japan is a big market for casinos, especially in Tokyo and Osaka, the US based gaming company called ‘The Gamblers’ has decided to accept the jeopardy and plough a large sum of money into casinos in Japan. The company initially had franchising in mind; but after assessing that no Japanese was ready to become the franchisee due to the risk involved, The Gamblers had to drop the plan. It was then finally decided to form a subsidiary in Japan. Since, The Gamblers will form a subsidiary from t he scratch; this investment is technically called a Greenfield venture. The advantage of this type of an investment is that The Gamblers can have whatever culture it wishes; it will keep the same structure as that of US’s and when everything is run the way we wish, high profitability is likely to occur. However, there are disadvantages attached to this too - The Gamblers will have to study the Japanese market in great depth, will need to acquire information about the market, laborers, materials, people and culture; mistakes are inevitable. The best part remains; the US Gambler will have total control over the activities. However, it was decided by the US top level management of The Gamblers that later on if any Japanese would be interested in buying shares/investing and gaining some control over the casino, US management will be open to that. It is anticipated that Japanese will be interested in investing in the casino as it will be an innovative area with a big market to inv est in. Q2) For a fact, the market demand for casinos in Japan is extremely high. Not only people but some government officials such as Ishihara are working for the legalization of casinos. According to a news article in Singapore, the Japanese gaming adviser has held talks with global casino owners such as Las Vegas Sands and Harrah's Entertainment to become Japan's first ever casino. Japan chose Las Vegas Sands because it has made an investment in Singapore too; however, it is The Gambler's aim to make sure that they become the first ever legal global casino. The Japanese market is definitely lucrative because not only is the public in favor, but even the government is inclined towards lifting the ban. The government has a tourist perspective in mind - casinos usually attract the tourist influx, causing a rise in foreign exchange earnings. Apart from the tourists, there are about 128 million people who are ready to spend money on this form of entertainment. According to a survey to find out whether people support the ban lift of casinos in Tokyo, out of a sample of 13,236 people, 32.4% supported the legalization, 21.0% opposed it, 44.9% did not know and 1.8% did not answer (Ken Y-N, 2007). With the highest per capita income in Asia of $39,195 which

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

US Empire Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

US Empire - Essay Example While this is the case, however, there have been instances where the United States has tended to take the wrong actions when it had the opportunity to use its massive leverage to help resolve the conflicts taking place in divided societies and its interventions in such conflicts have made some of the situations on the ground worse than they were before. The American military capability cannot be denied but its use in almost every conflict situation in the world is not advised because of the fact that not all conflicts can be resolved militarily. The foreign policy of the United States as it is currently is not compatible with the realities of the situation in the twenty first century because the times of wars of aggression are long past and an age of absolute global peace is fast approaching. The policy of taking sides in domestic conflicts in such situations as in Israel, Syria and Libya, instead of endearing the United States to the world as a global peacemaker, has ended up doing the opposite, earning this country a bad name on the global stage. It can therefore be said that the United States does not currently have the capability of resolving intrastate violence in divided societies and that in order for it to be able to do so, it has to have a massive overhaul of its foreign policy. The fact that the United States has been proven not to have the capacity for ending intrastate violence in the various societies in the world has created a situation where it is not trusted in matters of conflict resolution. This is mainly because in most of its interventions, it has consistently taken sides in local conflicts; a matter which has earned it many grievances from the excluded parties. There has developed a situation where it has become a necessity for the United States to change some part of its policies concerning interventions in intrastate conflicts so that it can easily bring such conflicts to a speedy end. Among the means which can be suggested is through the development of a strong neutral stance in such conflicts in order t o make the opposing sides feel comfortable with American intervention because taking sides more often than not alienates a part of the society; mostly against the power that is attempting to bring peace in the respective region (McGarry & O’Leary, 2007). The development of a strong diplomatic resume would help the United States a great deal when dealing with intrastate conflicts because there would be level ground for the conflicting sides to come to an amicable solution. This was seen in recent times in Kenya, where during the violence which erupted after the 2007 elections, the United States stepped up its diplomatic machine to ensure that peace was returned to this divided society. The swift intervention in this conflict by the United States government, led by the then Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice helped in a massive way in the swift ending of the conflict and the return to normalcy in Kenya (Adeagbo & Iyi, 2011). Diplomatic means should therefore be a priority for the United States in its endeavor to foster peaceful societies all over the world. The capability of the United States as a global diplomatic force is among the greatest in human history and this can be used to great advantage in the resolution of intrastate conflicts all over the wor

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Factors of foreign policy Essay Example for Free

Factors of foreign policy Essay In the first place the size of a states territory as well as it’s population greatly influences its foreign policy. Generally the leaders and people of countries with small territory and population do not expect their country to carry great weight in international affairs. On the other hand the leaders and people of large countries are ready to assume special responsibilities. However, sometimes even small states which have rich resources also leave a deep impact on world politics. For example, Britain, a small country, played leading role in world politics in the nineteenth and early twentieth century. In our own times the oil-rich countries of the Middle East, though small in size are playing a significant role in international politics. On the other hand large states like Canada and Australia have not been able to pursue effective foreign policy. Commonwealth of Independent states (CIS) which came into existence after the disintegration of the Soviet Union, though quite large in size, is not able to play an effective role in contemporary international relations. The geography of a country, including its fertility, climate, location in relation to their land  masses, and water-ways etc. also influence the countrys foreign policy. It is a major factor in determining self-sufficiency of a country. Generally land-locked countries, nations in the tropics and those bordering a superpower are less self-sufficient in comparison to the countries which have access to warm-water ports or are located in the temperate zones and far removed from superpowers. For example in the nineteenth century USA adopted isolationist policy chiefly on account of its geographical location. Though the importance of geographic factors is acknowledged almost at all hands, its importance has considerably declined due to technological and scientific developments. For example, due to improvement in the means of transport and communication the world has greatly shrunk and the perception of large bodies of water as natural barriers to military attack has greatly diminished. But still geographical location of a country has a deep impact on the determination of its foreign policy. India adopted policy of non-alignment because of geographical location. The presence of two major powers on its borders (USSR and China) deterred it from joining power blocs. 3. Culture and History. The cultural and historical traditions of a country also deeply influence the foreign policy. Generally people possessing a unified common culture and historical experience can pursue an effective foreign policy because of the support of all sections of society who share the same values and memories. On the other hand, a country which is culturally and historically fragmented cannot pursue an equally effective foreign policy. According to Prof. Roseau the influence of cultural factors is not limited to the impact of societal unity upon the formulation and implementation of foreign policy. Equally important are the processes through which the contents of Shared norms and practices of society, as distinguished from the degree of unity that supports them shape the plans that are made and the activities that are undertaken withrespect to the external world 4. Economic Development. The stage of economic development which a country has attained also has its impact on its foreign policy. Generally the industrially advanced countries feel more deeply involved in relations with other countries because they have to import different kinds of raw materials and commodities from other countries. They are also on the lookout of latest knowledge and technical know-how. Therefore they maintain intimate trade relations with their trading partners. All this leads to intimate links between the groups and people of one country with their counterparts in the other country. Again, an industrial country is expected to have a higher gross national product (GNP) and can devote greater funds for external purpose, economic aid programme, military ventures and extensive diplomatic commitments. On the other hand, industrially backward countries are not able to actively involve themselves in external affairs. The lack of scientists, engineers and other specialists in the country prevents them from taking advantage of the technological break-through abroad. In recent years United States has been able to pursue more vigorous foreign policy and secure its national objectives, mainly on account of its high degree of economic development. It has made liberal use of foreign aid as an instrument for the promotion of its foreign policy goals. It is a matter of common knowledge that in our times the industrially developed countries (popularly known as G-7) are playing an effective role in international politics as compared to other developed or under-developed countries. This is but natural in view of fact that economically developed countries possess greater military capability than the less developed countries, and can exert greater influence on international relations. In our own times the decline of Russias economic power has considerably undermined her political role in the international arena. 5. Technology. Advancement in technology, which affects the military and economic capabilities of a state, also exercises profound influence on the foreign policy. However, this factor influences the foreign policy only in an indirect manner, by influencing other sources of foreign policy. It has been observed that countries which possess advance technology are able to provide technical knowhow to less developed and developing nations and thus exert necessary influence on their foreign policies. Roseau has rightly observed Technological changes can alter the military and economic capabilities of a society and thus its status and role in the international system. The dominant role which countries like France, China, Germany and Japan have been able to play in recent years is largely due to excellent technological developments in these countries. 6. National Capacity. The national capacity of a state also exercises profound influence on the foreign policy of a state. National capacity of a state depends on its military preparedness, it’s technological advancement and economic development. It is well known that United States which continued to pursue policy of isolation till the beginning of the present century got deeply involved in the international arena in the present century mainly due to tremendous increase in her national capacity due to rapid economic development. Similarly, the foreign policy of Britain underwent great transformation in the post World War II period, mainly due to decline in her national capacity. 7. Social Structure. The social structure of a society also exercises profound influence on its foreign policy. A society which is sharply divided on the basis of wealth,  religion, regional imbalances, etc. cannot pursue effective foreign policy on account of division and lack of co-operation among various groups. On the other hand a homogeneous society possessing strong sense of national unity can pursue a more effective foreign policy. It is well known that Britain stood as one person under the leadership of Churchill during the Second World War and the people gladly suffered all kinds of hardships to preserve their unity because of social solidarity. 8. Public Mood, Public mood is another important determinant of a countrys foreign policy. Though public mood usually follows rather than guides the foreign policy making process, it can exercise lot of influence on the determination of a foreign policy if the basic realignment in the prevailing great power structure takes place and the state becomes more involved or more isolated from the world affairs. It may be noted that generally in an authoritarian system the public mood does not influence the foreign policy, but in a democratic system based on political accountability considerable weight has to be accorded to the changing public mood and sentiments. Political Organization. The political organization found in a country also greatly influences the foreign policy. Generally under authoritarian system quick foreign policy decisions are possible because the decision making power rests with an individual assisted by his clique. But as the leaders under this system are isolated from the operational environments and the subordinate policy makers provide the information which is perceived by the superiors, there is every possibility of a discrepancy between the psychological and operational aspects of the foreign policy. Further, under this system undesirable opposition can be suppressed through censorship and promulgation of regulations. On the other hand in a country possessing a democratic structure the citizens can freely express their opinion on the domestic as well as foreign policy which naturally leave its impact on the foreign policy of the country. Under democratic system there is very little discrepancy between what the officials want to believe about the state of world politics and the actual position because the subordinate policy makers make available critical and detached information. Within the democratic system itself the difference in a political structure has its impact on foreign policy. For example, under a parliamentary system of government based on co-operation between the Legislature and the Executive, the cordial relations between the two wings have an impact on countrys foreign policy. On the other hand under presidential system based on the principle of separation of powers, the relation between the two wings are likely to be more strained, which affect the ambiguity or continuity of foreign policy. Similarly, different foreign policy is likely to emerge under bi-party system and multi-party systems. Generally under bi-party system the government is likely to have a clear-cut majority and conduct itself in a more decisive manner regarding the conduct of foreign relations. In contrast of this, under multi-party system conflicting view points and interests may have to be reconciled. This may lead either to the avoidance or postponement of the decision. 10. Role of Press. The press also plays a vital role in the foreign policy formulation process. The press contributes to this process by supplying factual information on the basis of which the people take decision by publishing specialized articles on current international developments which enable the people to understand the significance of developments in their country in relation to the past developments and by analyzing the policy of the government in regard to foreign affairs. The press also plays an important role in publicizing the foreign policy of the country. The role of the press, however, depends on the political system prevailing in the country, the rate of literacy as well as the attitude of government. The nature of political accountability prevailing in a system also greatly influences the foreign policy of the country. Generally in an open political system, the demands of citizen and groups get articulated and transmitted to foreign policy formulators. The framers of foreign policy cannot ignore these demands. In fact quite often the policy formulators anticipate these demands while formulating the foreign policy. On the other hand under a closed system the public reactions are neither available nor given much importance. The leadership also plays a vital role in the shaping of a countrys foreign policy. According to Rosenau: A leaders beliefs about the nature of international arena and the goals that ought to be pursued therein, his or her peculiar intellectual strength and weakness for analyzing information and making decisions, his or her past background and the extent of its relevance to the requirements of the role, his or her emotional needs and most of other personality traits—these are but a few of the idiosyncratic factors that can influence the planning and execution of foreign policy. No doubt, the qualities of leadership have a deep impact on the countrys foreign policy but their role is greatly constrained by the governmental and social structure. Further the role of leadership is not identical in all countries. In less developed countries their role is greater as compared to industrialized societies. In industrialized societies the individuals enjoy very limited discretion in high governmental and non-governmental positions. Posted 2nd July 2012 by Ken Ngeny

Friday, November 15, 2019

King Lear :: Literary Analysis, Shakespeare

â€Å"...the error of age is to believe that experience is a substitute for intelligence.† (Lyman Bryson) In the play King Lear by William Shakespeare, such an idea is explored. Lear is a King who is physically aged but as the play progresses, it becomes clear that he lacks the intelligence which usually accompanies it. The play is set in a time where the King was equal to God himself, he was set apart from the common man as somewhat of a transcended being. Shakespeare breaks this unspoken relationship through the events of his play. Lear’s rash decision to banish his loving daughter Cordelia and hand total power of his kingdom over to two his uncaring daughters, Goneril and Regan sets of a chain of events which send him on a downward spiral to become the basest of human beings. Shakespeare uses the characters of the Fool, Cordelia, Kent and Goneril as well as irony, foreshadowing, and diction to portray Lear as nothing more than an unseeing old human being. The Fool is a character in the play who is the embodiment of Lear’s conscience and through him, the audience is able to witness the folly of the King. His name bears quite a significant irony as throughout the play it is made apparent that it is the Fool who is the wiser. He states that, â€Å"this fellow banished two on’s daughters, and did the third a blessing against his will† (1,4,101-103) The Fool lays bare the folly Lear in not recognising the worth of a true daughter yet through his foolish act, he has done Cordelia good. In a way this irony of the Fool foreshows the future judgement of this judgemental monarch. In the play it is Cordelia who is banished and the other two who have blessings poured on them, but the Fool provides the audience with a different perspective on this matter; one, which is increasingly unapparent to the ailing King who is quick to continue his living in denial, stating that, â€Å"[All] This is nothing, Fool† (1,4 127) Shak espeare’s placement of the Fools as Lear’s conscience allows the audience to feel the emotions which the king should be experiencing. In the event of Cordelia’s banishing â€Å"the Fool hath much pinned away† (1,4,71-72) Shakespeare shows the Fool’s sadness to contrast with the apparent lack of some in the King. This also evokes audience empathy. Through the Fool Shakespeare is able to convey to the reader the apparent folly of a vain King and the enormity of his folly.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Characteristics of Adolescents Essay

Intellectual, moral, physical, emotional, and psychological development of Middle School students. Middle Schoolers undergo profound changes during their adolescent years, and unlike infancy, they are witnesses to these changes. Complicating things further is the fact that these changes do not occur at the same rate in each individual. While all adolescents do not share these characteristics, it is safe to say that many do. Understanding that these characteristics are developmentally â€Å"normal† is helpful. At the same time, while these changes are necessary and natural, they present challenges to parents, teachers, and Middle Schoolers themselves. Intellectual Development * Display a wide range of intellectual development. * Are in transition from concrete to abstract thinking. * Are intensely curious and dabble in a wide range of pursuits, few of which are sustained. * Prefer active over passive learning activities. * Prefer interaction with peers during learning activities. * Respond positively to opportunities to participate in real life situations. * Are often preoccupied with self. * Have a strong need for approval and may be easily discouraged. * Develop an increased understanding of personal abilities. * Are inquisitive about adults, often challenging their authority, and always observing them. * May show disinterest in conventional academic subjects but are intellectually curious about the world and themselves. * Are developing a capacity to understand high level or sophisticated humor. Moral Development * Often show compassion for those who are downtrodden or suffering and have a special concern for animals and environmental problems. * Are moving from acceptance of adult moral judgments to development of their own personal values. (Nevertheless, they tend to embrace values consistent with those of their parents.) * Are capable of and value direct experience in participatory democracy. * Greatly need and are influenced by adult role models who will listen to them and affirm their moral consciousness and actions as being trustworthy role models. * Are increasingly aware of and concerned about inconsistencies between values exhibited by adults and the conditions they see in society. Physical Development * Experience rapid, irregular growth. * Undergo body changes that might cause awkward, uncoordinated movements. * Have varying maturity rates, with girls tending to mature one-and-a-half to two years earlier than boys. * May be at a disadvantage because of the varied rates of maturity that require the understanding of caring adults. * Experience restlessness and fatigue due to hormonal changes. * Need daily physical activity because of increased energy. * Develop sexual awareness that increases as secondary sex characteristics appear. * Are concerned with body changes that accompany sexual maturation and changes resulting in an increase in nose size, protruding ears, long arms, and awkward posture. * Prefer junk food but need good nutrition. * Often lack physical fitness, with poor levels of endurance, strength, and flexibility. * Are physically vulnerable because they may adopt poor health habits or engage in risky experimentation with drugs and sex. Emotional and Psychological Development * Experience mood swings often with peaks of intensity and unpredictability. †¨ * Need to release energy, often in sudden, apparently meaningless outbursts of activity. * Seek to become increasingly independent, searching for adult identity and acceptance. * Are increasingly concerned about peer acceptance. * Tend to be self-conscious, lacking in self-esteem, and highly sensitive to criticism. * Exhibit intense concern about physical growth and maturity as profound physical changes occur. * Increasingly behave in ways associated with their gender as gender role identification strengthens. * Are concerned with many major societal issues as personal value systems develop. * Believe that their personal problems, feelings, and experiences are unique to them.