Stereotypes: Perception and Globally Connected World

Persuasive Essay: Stereotypes exist because they are grounded in truth The term stereotype has been derived from the Greek words â€Å"stereos† and â€Å"typos† meaning solid and impression respectively. Hence stereotype means â€Å"solid impression† (Henry George). Nowadays this term refers to generalizations or assumptions that people make about the characteristics of all members of a group based on an image of what people in that group are like. For example, black people are considered stronger than white people, Americans are considered friendly, tolerant but arrogant. Clearly these are assumptions and generalizations which are not applicable to everyone. If we just assume what a person is like and don’t judge them individually we are likely to make errors in estimating their characters (Stereotypes). There has been a lot of debate on this topic that stereotypes exist because they are grounded in truth. Although supporters of this view base their argument on the inherent nature of the people and how these stereotypes didn’t just come out of nowhere they fail to take into account the other side. Media, educational institutes and science can show why such stereotypes exist and that they are not based on truth. One of the dominant reasons of majority’s belief in stereotypes is the existence of an influential media that shapes the perceptions of this globally connected world. It indoctrinates the dominant views of the society into the minds of people. An example would be the Muslims image as seen in the west today. This stereotype regarding this that all Muslims are terrorists became prevalent in the west after the 9/11 incident and the media is directly responsible for this. After this incident a number of movies have been made which portrayed Muslims as terrorists and considering the amount of people who watch these movies, it becomes evident that such a stereotype is likely to be engrained in their minds. Besides, there are several other stereotypes promoted by media which have plagued the human society. Cartoon movies thoroughly enjoyed by children are full of stereotypes. For example the movie Cinderella reinforces the evil character of stepmother as is generally perceived. In Lady and the tramp, Siamese cats negatively portray Asians with heavy voices and odd accents, Arabs are shown as thieves and bad people as in the famous movie Aladdin

Gimpel the Fool Essay

Technology essay – Advantages and disadvantages of technological advances Technology has been progressing at an astonishingly rapid rhythm, and it has been changing our lives in a scaring way. In the future, our lives might change even more, with several benefits and dangers of technological advances. Everything evolves around 3 concepts: technology, science and future. So now arises the question: will this technology advance make society better or worse off? On the one hand, several benefits will make society better off. For example, advances in cosmetic surgery will lead to people being highly satisfied with their personal appearance and happiness among society will be increased. For example, people that feel ugly and can’t find a couple will now be able do it with facial metamorphosis, and they won’t be depressed anymore. In conclusion, society’s welfare and happiness will be increased by cosmetic surgery. Another example is genetically modified food. The ability to modify the food’s gens will allow crops to grow faster. This will lead to higher amounts of food being produced at lower prices. As a consequence, world’s hunger rates will be dramatically reduced, with higher nutrition rates taking place. In conclusion, genetically modified food will affect positively human hunger and nutrition rates. Lastly, human lives will also be benefited by another important technological advancement: animal clonation. Species extinction will be reduced or even stopped, as well as hunger rates to the increase in supply of food. To sum up, animal clonation will solve some of the key issues which are actually part of the world’s daily agenda. Overall, human life will be changed in a very positive way by advancements such as the mentioned before and some actual key issues won’t exist anymore. However, technology might also bring severe dangers to human life, being society’s welfare not maximized and in a very extreme case, humans might be extinct. An example of this situation is life expectancy increased to 120/130 years old. Besides this might be seen as a positive fact because we will be able to have a higher quality and longer life, increasing the life expectancy to that range of years will make more profound an actual worldwide issue: overpopulation. If humans start living until 120/130 years old and the birth rates remain constant, then overpopulation will take place, global warming will increase at a higher rate and human life will be seriously threated. In conclusion, increase life expectancy might be a danger to human life if it’s not applied properly. Another example, which is less â€Å"catastrophic† than the previous one mentioned is online education. If we look at a â€Å"hardware and internet connection timeline†, we will be able to notice that internet connection has been doubling its speed every 5 years, and hardware per capita (ie: the amount of computer/s owned by each person all over the world† has been increasing at a constant rate of 25%. This is a good fact, which also implies that online education will take place in the short term future. But isn’t this good? Research have shown that if online education would take place, students would suffer the syndrome of social isolation, which means that mental disorders would be suffered by students as a consequence of a lack of social interaction, as well as decreased happiness and welfare in society due to the unsocial students. In conclusion, besides it might increase individual productivity as students can adopt their own working patterns and practices, it represents a big problem to society. To finish off, another example is technological advancements in internet resulting in a loss of privacy. This is because there will be higher software’s available to spy other people and get into their private life, as well as the fact that the increased availability of internet in society would make all of us more interrelated. As an example, software’s will be available to steal our Facebook account or any other social network password, or if any photo is uploaded to Facebook then people might be able to see it without the publisher of the photo even knowing. In conclusion, it might be considered as a minor issue in society, but as internet and globalization has been having a remarkable growth, this danger will be more noticeable in the long term and will definitely need to be treated. In conclusion, technological advancements are always seen as a good thing but however, they might represent a real danger to society, even threatening human life to extinction. This is not because of the nature of the technological advancements, but because of its over use or misuse by society, and all the dangers these advancements generate could be easily reduced or removed with government intervention and a market that would automatically stop or reduce its consumption because it brings dangers among its consumers.

Strategic Recommendations Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Strategic Recommendations - Research Paper Example Members are assisted in order to achieve their purposes and goals but they are also required to adhere to the AFP code of ethical fundraising. Programs that advocate for social and cultural diversity among members and leaders are implemented by AFP which fosters international cooperation. Conducting research and presenting the findings is another mission of AFP as well as provision of reliable certification to fundraising professionals (AFP, 2006). According to AFP (2006), the organization bases all its principles on the professional code of ethical standards which are strictly adhered to. The organization encourages people to volunteer, offer support or gives donations to the non-profit making organization that improve the quality of life and living standards of the community members. AFP and the philanthropic sector are directly tied. Community members are empowered through AFP’s activities of promoting professional services in philanthropy and fundraising. AFP members are a lso involved in most charitable organizations which offer solutions in difficult medical problems, support children programs, serve victims in disasters, ensure good care for the environment and animals and also support education and art. AFP stakeholders behind its success are the members, donors, local and international chapters, volunteers, employees, directors and professionals that ensure that the organization meets the set goals. As stated in the official AFP website, the creation of a new AFP Strategic Partners Program was to enable the organization partner with other leading organizations to support the profession and advance effective ethical fundraising. Visa and Blackbaud are among the current AFP strategic partners that offer assistance to the organization’s initiative (AFP, 2006). Summary of Project 1 Evaluation Findings The most active program in the Association of Fundraising Professionals is the Professional Development Program. In the AFP 2011-2013 strategic plan major priority has been given to the strategic partnership and international growth development. The strategic partnership however allows a limited number of 8 partners per year. AFP allows these partners to offer assistance in areas that benefits its members such as education, enabling the organization to cut on cost and channel the resources to other critical areas (Sheehan, 2010). The 7 measures of success for the association of fundraising professionals in a project are very crucial for AFP. With the current economic challenges, the non-profit sector has become more complex and very competitive in terms of funds acquisition and donors/ volunteers. The organization has for this reason developed a strategic plan to address sectors such as education, services offered by members, ethical fundraising, finance and organizational relationships. AFP approaches issues of accountability and management by providing their members with tools to analyze the budgets and ensure efficient a llocation of the limited funds. The interaction between the organization and the customer enhances good relationships that are encouraged through training, open communications through blogs, discussion groups and conferences. In the alignment of products and services with mission, AFP has developed products and services that meet customer needs in accordance to the organi

Group and team behavior - Organizational behavior Assignment

Group and team behavior - Organizational behavior - Assignment Example Teams also perform management or supervisory role along with doing work. The revolutionary concept was adopted purely due to market needs and as a departure from traditional corporate functioning. The adoption has increased 3M productivity up to 300 % at some places. Advantages of using this system include improved customer relationship and loyalty, increased productivity and efficiency, greater freedom of action and adaptability, low organizational costs, less job categorization, worker welfare, improved services and survival of fittest. Limitations of using this system are initial risks, requisite training, time required in adopting culture, learning of basic management skills by all and bigger responsibility at lower level. Major challenges in this system are focus and involvement of employees, and customer satisfaction. Motivated employees are the best assets any firm can have. Rewarding for good performance is the best source of motivation. Rewards may be given in the form empow erment, recognition amongst peers, financial benefits, promotions, acknowledgement for creativity and innovation, training, quality of living and facilities. At 3M, work teams are rewarded with variable pay, which includes sales commissions and annual incentives.

Midterm exam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Midterm exam - Essay Example a) Joseph Johnston argues that the failures in corporate governance and top level scandals indicates that the fiduciary principle does not really help to ensure that managers seek the best interest of their stakeholders (25). Johnston argues on the basis of the conflict of interest that is so rife in organizations. This is because most managers and directors seek to meet their profit motives and since they are often assessed on the basis of their ability to attain profitability, most directors are prone to find ways and means of cutting corners and cheating some stakeholders. A stakeholder is a person who affects and/or affected by an organizations activities (Freeman 29). This include a wide variety of people including employees, consumers, suppliers, financial institutions, government agencies amongst others. These people have various demands and expectations from the organization and its directors. And due to the reality that directors are expected in practice, to generate profits, directors are wont to do illegal things that will lead to higher profitability. They are also likely to ignore other peoples claims and legitimate needs in order to attain high profitability. From another angle, managers and directors want to remain in the good books of shareholders and guarantee shareholders expectations of higher dividends. They are therefore likely to present misleading reports that will allow them to remain in office as directors. Thus, the fiduciary duty of operating in good faith is often missed and directors use ways and means to attain results. b) To a large extent, I agree with this assertion. This is because in reality, a director works under so many constraints. And if that is the case, a director will be forced to do things that might not be in the best interest of everyone. From another perspective, it is practically impossible for a manager or director to meet all the expectations and demands of stakeholders. So a director will have to

Politics in Cambodia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Politics in Cambodia - Essay Example Racial discrimination, in most cases, occurs in several ways. Mostly, racial discrimination takes the form of biological supremacy where those who discriminate believe they are superior and better than the rest. However, the superiority concept is not always a factor in racial discrimination. As was in the case of the genocide in Cambodia, the Khmer Rouges, the main native group, actively discriminated the rest of the groups not necessarily based on their biological identities. On the contrary, racial discrimination in the country was based on economics, politics and their cultural composition of the groups. Stereotyping of issues around these concepts mainly led to racial discrimination of the minority groups. For instance, wealth was an important factor that determined how the Khmer Rouge treated each person. In that respect, the Cambodians were divided into two broad categories; the base people mainly made of the peasant farmers in rural areas and the new people who lived in citie s. Consequently, the new people suffered the most; they were forced to handle tough jobs in extreme conditions. Later, the text will illustrate how the stereotyping of the urban new Chinese minority as economically endowed persons led to exploitation and discrimination policies under the regime. Stereotyping of the Chinese as being among the wealthy class groups resulted in racial discrimination where they  faced  harsher terms compared to the native Khmer.

Strategic Human Resources Planning. Investigation Research Paper

Strategic Human Resources Planning. Investigation - Research Paper Example HR is a department within the organization that entirely manages people (Wood, 2009). It thus serves the purpose of recruiting, managing, and directing workforce. This is because it HR is the department that possesses knowledge, skills, creativity, ideas, and aptitudes within the organization. Any problem within the organization is solved through this department. Therefore, any organization that considers success an option must put in place human resource managers with the necessary skills to enhance progress of the organization. Like any other organization, Hilton Hotel has a HRD that has seen the organization provide unequalled services far and wide. This paper discusses corruption as a common problem in Hilton Hotel. Overview of the Problem Corruption has been a common problem in many organizations especially the big and diversified firms. From history, over 75% of companies have reached a shut down point as a result of corruption. The continued growth of Hilton Hotel has seen the emergence of this deadly vice. Within every organization, corruption has lead to several consequences that if not taken care of will result to organizational failure (Mathis & Jackson, 2010). In Hilton, just like any other organization, the highest levels of corruption were at the staffing function of the HR Department. It is important that in performing this role, recruits be selected in reference to their competence. This will definitely see the organization achieve since the recruited staff is in possession of the equipments. However, this has not been the case. Evidently, many of the newly recruited staff do not have the professional requirement, and necessary experience simply because they have a link to senior managers in the organization. In such a case, the definite outcome is failure. Environment Analysis Environmental analysis is a crucial aspect within an organization. It is important to evaluate the impact that Political factors, Economic factors, Socio-cultural factors , and technological facts to the organization (Mathis & Jackson, 2010). For political factors, the changes that are incorporated in the legislation and the political instability in some countries have negatively impacted Hilton Hotel. On economic factors, interest rates, cross-border pricing, and the charges by the banks have been a challenge in executing the objectives that the Hotel has put in place. Technology has played a big role in the promotion of better services to clients. Hilton has kept up with the changing technology to ensure it gives up to date services. Business people consider socio-cultural factors as the key elements in building the society. They influence the choices people maker and include beliefs held by certain communities, attitudes towards certain aspects and values. There Hotel has looked into demographic changes and the perception the clients have on their products thus achieved in delivery. Financial Analysis The only way through which Hilton Hotel has ma naged to survive despite this problem is through proper financial management. The financial department has largely worked in collaboration with other departments to ensure that the organizational finances arte properly cared for. For instance, remuneration is a function for the HR Department, but the financial department ensures that it properly evaluates every financial proposal before signing. Further, still, it is in this department that purchases and sales are managed thus

Primary source Analysis Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Primary source Analysis - Research Paper Example Since it demonstrates how the slaves were relating with their masters, it can be of much benefit if used in studying about the topic, Work and Discipline of Plantation Slaves. The pictures of the slaves being shipped, yoked, monitored, punished and whipped clearly shows how they were considered to be loyal captives who would not be expected to rebel whatsoever. Summary: This primary source consists of 35 pamphlets which were collected together. Having been written by reputable scholars, the pamphlets are considered as a primary source since they contain first hand information about the plights of the African-Americans. These are the people who were used as slaves to work on the white plantations in the America. In these collections, the writers give a clear picture on how these slaves were subjected to harsh treatments and expected to remain disciplined. This, as they explain, was mainly achieved as a result of the punitive laws which had been put in place. Relevance: these pamphlets are very important in understanding the expansive history of the African-Americans. It can be instrumental in studying about the discipline of the slaves who were working on the plantation farms. Hence, it comes out as an outstanding and credible primary source authored by reputable scholars including Frederick Douglass, Ida Wells-Barnett, and Booker Washington. Summary: This is an excerpt of an interview which was conducted by about slavery. On June 11, 1949, Hermond Norwood interviewed Fountain Hughes in Baltimore, Maryland. Hughes was the right person for this interview because he was a former slave who had a deeper understanding about slavery. In this interview, he gave an account on how oppressive slavery was to the Negros. He says that they were not treated as human beings. Instead, they were stripped off their fundamental rights. Relevance: This interview is very

The History Of United States Essay Example for Free

The History Of United States Essay The differences between the federalists led by Alexander Hamilton and republicans under the leadership of Thomas Jefferson shaped the political and economic direction of America in their day. This paper asserts that these differences were determined by individual perceptions that gave birth to these ideological differences. When faced with the responsibility of leading the country, Jefferson embraced some of Hamilton’s ideas. Alexander Hamilton the federalist was born in the West Indies on 11th of January 1757. His party the Federalist Party was formed in 1792 and lasted all the way up to 1816. This was the first party to be formed in America On the other hand we have Thomas Jefferson who was the third president to rule United States of America and was born in 1743 in Virginia. He was very influential in laying the foundation for Republicanism. Unfortunately, the two leaders had very little in common. Jefferson’s Democratic Republican party was formed in 1792 with a motive of opposing Hamilton’s economic and monetary views but the party split in 1820s because of the party differences. He died on 4th July, 1826. Their philosophies on social, political, and economy were very different. For example they disagreed on the system of government, constitution and the funding of the federal government. The main focus of this paper will be to compare the similarities and differences between the social, economic and political philosophies of Alexander Hamilton and Federalism on one hand and Thomas Jefferson and the Democratic Republicans on the other. The paper will also try to look at why these political functions emerged, how the leaders viewed each other and from what segments of society they drew support from. Hamilton was a very strong advocate of a stable and strong centralized government and worked hard to convince the congress to enact laws that would facilitate its formation. He was basically talking about how this government could be financed, how a national bank would be created and where taxes will be obtained from for example, from imports and on whiskey. He was strongly inspired by British’s trade and its financial base. On the other hand Thomas Jefferson formed his Democratic-Republican Party which later came to be regarded as Republican Party to oppose the federalists view on economic and foreign policies such as the formation of a central government. They opposed Hamilton for proposing the extension of trade and other friendly business with foreign countries such as Britain. About the constitution, Hamilton wanted the constitution to be loosely interpreted while Thomas Jefferson and his party believed on strong and strict constitutional formation that would limit the judicial interpretations. They were opposed to the issue of forming a national government which they dismissed as unconstitutional. They also differed in the type of government they wanted for example Hamilton wanted a balanced economy with industries, agriculture and trade while Jefferson believed that the country could only be supported by the work of the common man. Hamilton since 1795 advocated for the promotion of trade to other parts. He also wanted international cooperation with Britain to be supported. Additionally, Hamilton wanted U. S to embrace a policy of tax collection and a national bank to cater for national debts while on the other hand the democratic Republican Party was against this although after the war in 1812, this party split after they were defeated, many young leaders who were against Hamilton’s idea of nationalism supported it and started advocating for strong military defense which they had in the past opposed. (Albert W. F. , 1984). Although Hamilton and Jefferson differed in many things, later Jefferson welcomed Hamilton policies. For example, after the former won the presidential elections of 1800. His strong opponents like Gallatin and Madison started adopting some of Hamilton’s policies like the formation of a national bank. They also started forming strong military base something that came into their mind soon after they lost in the war of 1812. They also embraced Hamilton’s policy of being flexible in interpreting the constitution. This is what is referred to as loose interpretation or using basket clause. Also the tariff policy so as be able to finance the federal government was adopted. Another thing borrowed from Hamilton was the issue of forming a strong standing army as well as the country’s economy that would be supported by the federal government. These both factions had different origins. The Democratic Republican Party originated from Philadelphia among the congressmen. In the beginning it was called the Republican Party but later, it was widely marketed in New York by Thomas Jefferson who included the states and other leaders from different localities. His party strongly advocated for liberty for all. On the other hand the Federalist Party was created by Hamilton alone and become its leader it relied on for urbanites it was the first to be formed in USA. Some saw it as people’s party while others criticized that it had a very weak connection with the masses. The Federalist Party started after Hamilton was appointed to the office by George Washington who was the then president. By this time he was a retired staff member. Hamilton wanted a federal government with a strong financial base. He went ahead and proposed his own economic program. He wanted the central government to cancel the debts that the sates occurred during the Revolutionary war of America and there by replacing it with a national debt. That is a debt that would be paid by the central government itself. He believed this would have only been possible if there was formed a national bank. His closest friend Madison left him and went to cater for his people in Virginia thus dropping the idea of nationalism. He later joined Jefferson in opposing Hamilton’s ideas. In 1790 Hamilton relentlessly started looking for followers countrywide. He believed that if he mobilized likeminded people and use his treasury networks to bring together all those people in the government like bankers and merchants, then he could make it. He began his politics in urban areas and as time went by, the party assumed a national identity and eventually became the Federalist Party. On the other hand, the Democratic Republican party was founded by two people that is, Jefferson and James Madison sometimes back in 1792. The party was formed with a motive of opposing Hamilton’s views on the economy and foreign policies. The foreign policies were of prime concern to the republicans. Hamilton wanted U. S to start having friendly relations with Britain and his party strongly condemned the French revolution. Jefferson’s party put ahead of all other things the freedom of Yeoman farmers and rights as opposed to federalism. He differed in Hamilton’s ideas on monetary things, national bank, creation and high spending in the military. In1790s the federalist and republicans traded abuse through newspapers. Hamilton was seen as a monarchist who never valued the American culture. He was accused of favouring the rich so that they could support his politics. Later they turned to using humors against each other. They opposed the treaty of 1784, Jay’s treaty that advocated for having relations with Britain and criticized the French revolution. They termed Britain and France as their archenemies. Jefferson and his supporters claimed federalism favored aristocracy instead of the ordinary people. However, after1812 Jefferson’s party split into two because of party differences. The young leaders in his party favored nationalism and creation of a strong army that would provide security to the Americans but Thomas Jefferson and his clues refused this. These younger leaders were Clay, Adams and Calhoun while the old party was headed by Randolph, Crawford and Nathaniel Macon. Both sides differed in beliefs which made them to support different factions. The later backed Andrew Jackson. After elections were held these factions became separate parties. The one for Jackson became the modern Democratic Party. The federalism party that was formed by Hamilton drew its support from all over but mainly from urbanites that would support his policies. Hamilton’s party had a lot of job opportunities thus it was able to attract many people while did not have many job opportunities. Jefferson drew his party support from the rurals whom he believed were the backbone of his party. . Alexander Hamilton firmly advocated for the government intervention and support in trade. He never advocated for free trade like it was the case in Britain for he believed this led to misuse of funds by channeling them to colonial powers. He believed that if his policies were implemented, then the economy would grow into stable heights. Hamilton was an orthodox although not a very strong believer. He did not believe that Christianity and democracy could go hand in hand. Hamilton misused religion to meet his political objectives especially during the revolution in France. To conclude, it can be said that Jefferson and Hamilton differed in many ways than they had in common. In the past they disagreed almost in everything but later Jefferson and the Democratic- Republicans changed their minds and embraced some his policies especially after they lost in war of 1812. His political party split because young leaders in his party like Clay and Adams supported the idea of nationalism and the creation of a strong army which the other faction in the party opposed. Finally after elections were held the two factions became parties. Jefferson’s party which was under Jackson became the Democratic Party while that for the youngsters faded after the civil war. After this, democrats welcomed some of Hamilton’s ideas such as having a strong central government as well as strong military base and an economy that would be controlled by the federal government. Jefferson believed in strict interpretation of the constitution that would limit the judiciary misinterpretation and Hamilton’s idea of creating a bank that would handle all financial cases of the central or federal government. This idea was also rejected by the representatives of the southern colonies whose economy did not favor the creation of a national bank. In short we can say that even in areas that they came to think alike, it was after they lost the war of 1812. The party became divided and the two parties went on their own. Reference: Albert W. F. , 1984. The Authority of Publius: A reading of the Federalist Papers. Ithaca, New York: Cornel University Press.

Integration versus generic approach Essay Example for Free

Integration versus generic approach Essay Integration versus Generic Approach Author Note This paper is being submitted on November 17, 2013, HS/100 Introduction to Human services course. Integration versus Generic Approach The integration concept is that which emphasis’s on the integrating of the various human services systems under one organizational or administrative system. In the most basic terms, an integrated service delivery approach serves people better, more efficiently and effectively. Integration calls for people within agencies to be involved and invested in the process of sustainable change. To achieve truly integrated services, organizations must overcome their own interests and look at clients’ needs. (Friedman and Pagan, 2011). Today technology allows human service agencies to have a comprehensive view of client need, giving caseworkers the best information to look at services across programs and to allocate available resources to assist customers. This enables agencies to deploy necessary services quickly in a well-coordinated fashion (Freidman and Pagen, 2011). The generic approach to human services, in part, has integration, but it is generally believed that the existing human services structure is most accurately described as an array of potentially related programs that deliver distinct benefits or services to narrowly defined target populations. These programs are usually separate and distinct, through which money, regulations, and professional norms, and expectations flow. While some overlapping across programs has always existed, each usually operates in a relatively self-contained manner (Corbett and Noyes, 2008). I believe that the integration approach serves our publics best interest. To have all systems and programs come together to see the big picture, to focus on all the problems together, instead of having to go place to place to work on separate issues Unfortunately, a  ready-made definition of service integration does not exist. We have not been able to find a magic threshold that marks the separation of unintegrated service systems from those we would characterize as integrated (Corbett and Noyes, 2008). (Ragan, 2003) states, â€Å"There is no single answer. Based on observations†¦service integration is a combination of strategies that simplifies and facilitates clients’ access to benefits and services. Each site has implemented a distinctive mix of strategies, processes, and partner agencies†.

Arab Israeli War 1967

Arab Israeli War 1967 Introduction Israel and Arabs have fought a number of wars after 1947. After the creation of Israel in 14 May 1948, Arab and Israel became front to front in 1949, 1956, and 1967 and in 1973. Among all those the war of 5 -10 June 1967 also famous for six days war was the one of the major conflict. For Arabs it was the revenge and for Israel it was a war of survival. The outcome of war became a defeat for Arabs and victory for Israel. The entire Sinai Peninsula, the Golan Heights and Jordanian territory west of River Jordan including Jerusalem was captured by Israel. â€Å"This campaign taken as one of example in the history as decisive effects on striking to enemy defenses through deep penetration in very short period of time.† (Army command and staff collage, 2012). Aim The aim of this presentation is to analyze the decision making and brought out lesson learned from 1967 Arab Israel war. Historical Background Historically Arabs and Jews are sprung from the prophets Ismael and Issac both sons of prophet Abraham. Prophet Ismael is believed to be the ancestor of the Arabs while Prophet Issac became the ancestor of Jews. So for both the Palestine is holy land. The creation of Israel on 14 May 1948 was the main cause between Jews and Arabs conflicts. Arabs considered the creation of Israel as an independent State is plot against the people of Palestine by the Europeans and Americans. In 1956 Israel attack Egypt with the support of Britain and France to open Suez Canal. They occupied Gaza strip and large part of Sinai but left the area because of international pressure and 1967 war was taken as a sequel to these conflicts. Major factors for the 1967 conflict After the 1956 war there are many issues arises in this area. Arabs are looking to revenge for their loss in 1956 and for Israel it was always the survival after its creation. According to Rowman Littlefield (2000) some of the important factors, which contributed directly towards escalation of 1967 conflict, are as follows: a. Refusal of Arabs to recognize Israel as independent state. Increasing activities of Palestinian guerrillas Al- FATEH against Israel. b. Withdrawal of United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) on 19 May 1967 that increased the already existing tension between Egypt and Israel. c. The Mutual Defense Pact signed by Egypt and Syria in 4 Nov 1966 and Jordan Egypt Defense Agreement on 30 May 1967 that strategically threaten the Israel d. Closing of Channels of Tiran that cut off the Israeli access to Red sea. On which the Israelis immediately responded with a pre-emptive attack on June 5, 1967 that is starting of famous six-day war. Analyze the 1967 War Short six days war of 1967 change the big boundary in the Middle East. After this war Israelis strategic situation had changed and they became more stronger where as the Arabs faces the humiliating loss. Different historians analyzed this war in their different way. Army command and staff collage (2012) analyzed this six days war as follows. Arabs National Aim/Objectives: Arabs had set for themselves the aim of achieving political victory over Israel. To achieve this, they signed defense pacts among themselves and planned to give economic, political, psychological and military pressure to Israel. National Strategy: Ever since the creation of the Israel as independent State, the Arab’s national strategy is the destruction of it and creation of an independent Palestine. Military Strategy: The Arabs had no offensive intention at the outset. Their total emphasis was on achieving a political victory and preventing Israel from going to war. Therefore, their military strategy was: (1) Deterrence through troops concentration helping guerrilla activity and playing the card of ‘Crush Israel’, in the Arab world. (2) Force mobilization for long duration and closing of Straits of Tiran, which Israel could not able to afford. (3) If war is imposed, force Israel to fight war on three fronts, all from Sinai, Jordan and Syria. Centre of Gravity: Arabs identified Israel Defense forces as the center of gravity. But they failed to notice that within these their strength lay in their mobility. Concept of Operation: a. War on more than two fronts to keep Israelis committed in all directions. b. Initiate actions like forward concentration, guerrilla activities and closing of Straits of Tiran which will force Israel either to submit or attack the Arabs, which is politically advantageous for Arabs. c. If the war starts, involve Israel in long-drawn war of attrition and exploit their numerical inferiority. Israel National Aim/Objectives: The national aim of Israel was the survival and defense of their homeland. Their strategic concept has been to avoid war but if a war is imposed they were to go for a quick and decisive war. National Strategy: Israel had the national aim of ensuring the sovereignty and territorial integrity of their country by employing all possible instruments of national power like: military, political and diplomatic. Military Strategy: Israel military objective was offensive against Arabs for defense of their homeland. Therefore there military strategy was: (1) Surprise Arabs both at strategic and tactical level to lure them into a false sense of complacency. (2) Undertake a pre-emptive air strike to achieve complete air superiority over Sinai. (3) Undertake a pre-emptive ground offensive too. (a) Fight the war on enemy territory and seek decisive battle on their soil. (b) Have a short and decided war destroying the Egyptian forces in Sinai. (c) If Jordan and Syria also enter the war, then capture strategic objectives of West Bank of River Jordan and the Golan Heights. Center of Gravity: Israelis rightly identified that within the three Arab countries the center of gravity laid in Egypt especially its armed forces. Once Egyptian Army Is destroyed, Syria and Jordan could never initiate an offensive on their own. They accordingly dealt with the Egyptian air and ground forces first deferring Syria and Jordan for the time being. Concept of Operation: Employment of all conceivable political and psychological measures to give an impression to Arabs that Israel had been outwitted in time and space and was not in a position to under-take a major offensive. Having completely deceived the Arabs, acquire complete air superiority by under taking a pre-emptive air strike against Egyptian air bases followed by similar strikes against Jordanian and Syrian air bases. Appreciating that center of gravity lay with Egyptian Army in Sinai, Israelis decided to affect a swift dislocation of Egyptian defenses by breaking-through the critical triangle of Rafah, EI-Arish and Abu Agheila, isolate them and then carry-out destruction of the trapped enemy. Maintain initially a defensive posture against Syria and Jordan. And after secured and destroy the Egyptian side in the Sinai, concentrate forces against Jordan and Syria. Main Reason of Loss/Achievement of War Failure Threat Perception by Arabs: There are full of examples in history that whenever a nation or a commander failure to calculate the capabilities and intentions of the enemy’s he had to pay heavy price. Same here the Arabs completely misread Israeli reactions, in-spite of there own provocative actions. They failed to perceive the inherent mobility of Israeli ground forces and went wrong in their appreciation that they would be able to involve Israel into a long-drawn war of attrition on their three successive defense lines which Israel couldn’t manage. Strategy of Pre-emption by Israelis: Fully conscious vulnerability due to lack of strategic depth and multi-directional threat from Arab states, Israel had well prepared to use the option of pre-emption. Israelis knew that it would be difficult to destroy Arabs in full front war without taking initial initiative. So that they use the strategy of pre-emption for which they are fully prepared. Lessons Learnt Threat Perception: The correct visualization of enemy was very important to gain initiative in war which the Arabs failed resulting loss in war. Surprise: Surprise at strategic as well as tactical level in war is very key to achieve success. In spite of inferior in number and equipment Israeli achieve success because of there surprise not only lies on the military but at political leadership as well. Strategy of Pre-emption: Israel’s strategy of pre-emption adequately showed the importance of this strategy especially for a force inferior in number and equipment. Training: High standard mission oriented training can bring amazing results. Training is the only aspect by which one can offset the quantitative superiority of enemy as shown by Israelis in this war. Intelligence: Correct intelligence about enemy intents, capabilities and preparation has always been of paramount importance. This fact was further highlighted by these wars. Decision Theories in 1967 in War Cognitive performance: As crisis induced stress grows up and need of more effective decision making authority and bold leadership. â€Å"When stress was low, Israelis decision makers evaluated all courses properly and made decisions for their interest. And their stress increased after closing of straits, which was perceived as a threat to their basic values. During this situation also Israel’s decision makers were psychologically prone to reliance on past experience, which created a greater conceptual rigidity as a guide to coping with current threats to basic values. They seemed to be acutely aware of their complex environment. Increasing stress and fatigue during this crisis did not weaken their dimension of cognitive performance.† (Brecher and Geist ,1980). Focus on immediate objectives: We find that Israelis decision makers gave more attention to immediate than long-term objectives in this 1967 crisis. Like countering the blockade of the Straits, withdrawal of UNEF and Arabs military build up. But long-term goals and interests influenced all the decisions taken after the crisis. Brecher and Geist (1980) clustered the decisions into five stress phases corresponding to time periods. Which are detailed in table below. S.N. Stress Phases Time Periods Decisions Taken 1 Low Stress Phase Before 17 May Issue a threat of retaliation against Syria – 7 May Place the IDF on alert – 15 May Limited mobilization – 16 May 2 Rising Stress Phase 17–22 May 1967 Order further mobilization of IDF reserves – 17 May Institute large scale mobilization – 19 May Shift IDF from defensive to offensive posture – 19 May Authorize the mobilization decision – 21 May 3 Higher Stress Phase 23-27 May 1967 Postpone decision on military response to Egypt’s massing of troops- 23 May Send Foreign Minister to U.S.- 23 May Warn the U.S. that an Egyptian attack was imminent Await Foreign Ministers report on his discussions in Paris, London, and Washington- 26 May 4 Highest Stress Phase 28 May- 4 June Delay pre-emptive decision again- 28 May Renew the IDF alert- 28 May Send Director of Counter Intelligence to U.S.- 30 May Form a National Unity Government- 1 June Crystalize military plans – 2 June Launch pre-emptive air strike – 4 June 5 Declining Stress Phase After 4 June Warn Jordan against military intervention – 5 June Delay attack on Jerusalem’s Old City – 5 June Encircle the Old City – 6 June Enter to Old City- 7 June Halt IDF advance east of the Canal – 7 June Not to cross Syrian border – 7 June Delay attack on Syria -8 June Scale the Golan Heights – 9 June Accept cease fire – 10 June Rational Theory: Rational choice theory provides decision-makers choose their best options for their interest. It tell us that when faced with risk, decision makers consider the expected values and probabilities of possible outcomes and choose the option with the highest value. â€Å"For Israel and Egypt, those periods were a turbulent period of international relations. During those times both Israel and Egypt were constantly faced with â€Å"risky† decisions while at the brink of war. The decisions made by these two states, specifically the decisions to go to war, were sometimes unexpected and unexplainable given current models of rational choice.† (Kelly, 2008). Conclusion Although the 1967 Arab – Israel war was limited type of war happened only for six days, it has been the favorite subjects for military historians. This war gives real picture of saying â€Å" Offense is best form of Defense.† This war shows how leadership, wills, motivation and training count in war in spite of technology. Reference Army Command and Staff Collage. (2012). Military History Primer. Kathmandu: Army Command and Staff Collage. Brecher, M., Geist, B. (1980). Decision in Crisis: Israel, 1967 and 1973. Vol. 1. (Pg. 341-394). California: University of California. Bregman, A. (2009). Israel’s Wars: A History since 1947. Routledge. Howard, M., and Hunter, R. (2012). Israel and the Arab World: the Crisis of 1967. Routledge. Kelly, N. and Christopher, B. (2008). Ripe without warning: Israel and Egypt 1967-1973. African Journal of Political Science and International Relations. Vol. 2 (1), (Pg. 013-019). Retrieved from http://www.academicjournals.org/AJPSIRà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¨. Popp, R. (2006). Stumbling Decidedly into the Six-Day War. MIDDLE EAST JOURNAL. Vol. 60(2), (Pg. 281-309) Remnick, D. (2007). The Seventh Day: Why the Six Day War is still being fought. Sudetic, S. (2014). Pre-Emption and Israeli Decision- Making in 1967 and 1973. Routledge. Retrieved from http://www.e-ir.info/2014/03/16/pre-emption-and-israeli-decision-making-in-1967-and-1973/

Comparing Digging and Follower by Seamus Heaney Essay -- Seamus Heaney

Examine two poems, Digging and Follower by Seamus Heaney and then compare the poems, explaining both their differences and similarities. The first poem I am going to examine is "digging" by Seamus Heaney. I will first comment on the title of the poem. "Digging" has both a metaphorical and literal meaning to it. The literal meaning is that his father and his grandfather are farmers. The poem talks about the men "Digging" and working, so this explains the literal meaning of the poem. The metaphorical meaning is that Seamus Heaney is "Digging" into his past and back round, which is farming. So, the title is rather effective. Now I will examine the rest of the poem. Firstly, I will look at, and comment on, the first stanza. In this verse, Seamus Heaney is not doing anything. It seems as if he is waiting for inspiration. In the second line, there is a strange simile; "The squat pen rests; snug as a gun". This is strange because "snug" is a comfortable word which suggests he is comfortable with his writing, but gun is a powerful and dangerous word. This could mean that his pen could be powerful (and it is; it ends up being his career). The word "squat" makes it seem as if he is eager to write and as if the pen is poised; ready to spring. The word "rests" then reinforces the belief that he is comfortable with his writing. Secondly, I will study the second stanza. Onomatopoeia is used at the end of the first line. "A clean rasping sound" is said. This is also aural imagery. The word "digging" is repeated at the end of this stanza with the literal meaning. I will now look at the third stanza. Seamus Heaney is now thinking back 20 years. I can tell this as it says "comes up twenty years away". He is thinki... ...he poem. The poem is about how great his father is, and then ends bluntly; by saying Heaney is a nuisance. I found it unexpected. I think that it may mean that his back round wont go away and he feeds his writing by his past. It could also mean that his father is now old and feeble. Whichever this may be, it is a very ironic ending. The pessimistic ending is much unlike that of "Digging", which ended optimistically. I found this poem hard to understand at first, but then I looked between the lines, and, like "Digging", I found it really interesting and deep/meaningful. I rather digging though, I found it a more interesting and optimistic poem. Though, I did really like the last stanza of "Follower"; I found it very effective. But I also did with "Digging". Overall, I enjoyed both poems thoroughly and would like to look at more of Seamus Heaney's work.

Genetic Engineering and Cloning :: Argumentative Persuasive Topics

Genetic Engineering and Cloning What are the principle, ethical issues and experimental procedures used in genetic engineering and cloning? Should Cloning be allowed to continue? In the 1970's, scientists discovered that strands of DNA could be cut using special enzymes, which could cut out genetic combinations. DNA contains information about genes particular organisms hold. Duplicates of genes are also possible through genetic engineering and are very useful for medical purposes. Advances in technology have raised issues such as animal and human cloning. These issues have caused many different sided arguments. Some people feel that cloning should be banned, however never seen to see its medical value. There are already drug and medicine manufactures all over the world that are working on products that can be produced in cows' milk or even sheep or goats milk when the trait is cloned. Right now they are trying to produce vaccines against Malaria, antibodies against HIV, as well as proteins to treat haemophilia, muscle disease, internal intestinal infections, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis and emphysema. These same companies are also working on proteins to help digest fat and proteins to serve as nutritional supplements for infants, as well as different proteins, which are found in human blood, in cow's milk. None of these treatments would be possible in the future if cloning were banned. The Safety of genetic engineering is something that presents much concern. Looking at the current precautions and previous precautions of the biotechnological industry can clear up the safety issue. The FDA and State Governments impose limits such as the illegalization of human cloning and limits on other genetic engineering processes. The only legal forms of genetic engineering that are used today are in vitro fertilization, artificial insemination, and sperm banks. The moral question of genetic engineering is answered by looking at the advances in medicine. Today the advancements in medicine are evolving at an extremely high rate. If the science of genetic engineering is wrong, then so are the rest of the advances in medicine. The reason is because genetic engineering is just another form of medical advancement. Gene manipulation is not going to be used for any other purpose except for the treatment and elimination of disease. The one thing that people need to realize is the potential of genetic engineering. Try to visualize what parents of a child is dying from a disease like multiple sclerosis think about the benefits of genetic engineering.

Is There Sufficient Evidence in Sources D-I to Explain Why the Troubles Broke Out in 1969? Essay

Introduction Throughout history England has ruled Ireland. For Over 300 years there has been conflict between Catholics and Protestants. The whole conflicts was rooted in religion, but within the last centaury the troubles have escalated to include political and economical issues for example; in 1921 Protestants set down things like the penal laws in the 17th centaury, Catholics were excluded from politics; they were treated as if they were below Protestants. Problems like this have led Catholics fighting for what they believe is right and for their equality, they have shown this in non-violent and violent forms one example is bloody Sunday in 1969. In 1918 Ireland was partitioned into Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland. Ireland was split into three separate parties; Nationalists were home rule and to be part of the British Empire, Unionists were to be completely ruled by Britain, Sinn Fein were to be entirely independent with their own government and rules. In the following essay I am going to describe and evaluate sources D-I in telling us why violence erupted in 1969. I will be exploring the sources reliability, accuracy, whether it is fact, whether it is biased and basically discussing whether they are reliable evidence to show us exactly why the trouble did brake out in 1969. Source D Source D is an adaptation written by a Catholic civil rights spokes person named B Devlin in 1969. B Devlin based this piece of writing on how a young Roman Catholic school girl described her days. Source D tells the reader about how the vice principle of St Patrick’s Academy, Mother Benignus felt towards the English and protestants, as well as how she gave her opinion to the students of her school. Mother Benignus’s opinion was that protestants may have been powerful but they certainly were not Irish. This woman was brainwashing her students into learning about the ‘greatness’ of Catholics and Ireland and the ‘wonderful’ history behind it, making them believe that protestants and the English are horrible. Does Source D Show Why Violence Broke Out in 1969? Source D is biased therefore comes across as ‘anti-protestant’, there are no other point of views about protestants in this source. Because of this we can not trust B Devlin’s adaptation, it is not reliable; containing more of someone’s opinions rather than factual dates, times or places. The source does tell us that B Devlin adapted this source giving us evidence that she may have taken this source from a school girl but then possibly changed the source to create an even more anti-protestant view therefore making it biased. We know this could be true because B Devlin was a Catholics Civil Rights spokes person. This source shows no violence, however because the students were being brought up with an anti-protestant attitude this could lead to a future violent scene. My opinion is that this source is unreliable there are no dates apart from when it was written, and the source contains no factual proof. Source E Source E is a nineteenth century protestant cartoon. It was drawn by a protestant artist. The cartoon shows Erin, the lady of Ireland dressed in rags; she holds her head down as if she is ashamed and also looks upset. Erin has been tied up in rope by the Catholic priest; she is being punished. The Catholic priest is dressed smartly, he looks angry and in control of the situation. This source symbolizes the religious tension between Catholics and Protestants during that time period, giving the effect that Catholics have taken charge of all the churches. Does Source E Show Why Violence Broke Out in 1969? This source is biased towards the protestant point of view. The cartoon shows a protestant’s view on how the Catholics treated them, how they took control of all Protestants. They achieve this by giving the effect that protestants are innocent, also that Catholics are rich, evil people who try to make protestant’s lives a misery. During the time this source was drawn, Catholics were against Protestants and were ruling Ireland. This source does not contain violence however it could lead to violence because Catholics would want revenge for the ‘image’ they are known as. I would not trust this source considering that it was drawn by a protestant and effectively tells us that all Catholics are out to get Protestants. Source F Source F is a map showing the Gerrymander in 1966. A Gerrymander is to divide an area into election districts in such a way, as to give one political party an electoral advantage. The map tells us that in 1966 the population of Derry was 30376 people; it goes on to tell the reader that 20102 were Catholics and only 10274 were Protestants, telling us that during 1966 Derry was a catholic dominated area. Does Source F Show Why Violence Broke Out in 1969? Source F is a reliable piece of information because it is a map. From this we know that all the data that is written, is known as fact. The source uses accurate pieces of data involving numbers of the population and dates, as well as giving us a clear view certain roads in Derry; this includes Strabene Road, Irish Street and Urrivady Road. Although this map does not show any signs of violence, it is because of sources like this that we understand why there were Catholic protests in 1969, two years after this source was created. The map contains some writing telling us that more Protestants than Catholics became boundary commissioners because most Catholics refused. A piece of the paragraph then says, ‘The boundaries of the constituencies favored Protestants’ this tells us that the Protestants have Gerrymandered the Catholics. I believe because the catholics refused to become boundary commissionaires, this meant that the Protestants took over their jobs making them more powerful. Because of this, Catholics lost the right to vote, be represented or even buy a house. By 1969 Catholics were tired of Protestants having all the power so they wanted Civil Rights. They showed this by violent and non-violent protests. Concluding my theory this is a truthful source that could lead to violence. Source G Source G is a protestant’s view of Catholics attacking Protestants from 1641. The image shows Catholics dressed in clothes carrying swards forcefully pushing the shamed Protestants that have been stripped of all clothing. The scene shows violence, as there are bodies lying on the floor looking as though they are either in great pain or dead. There are some strong words above the picture; The Catholics are forcing the English Protestants to be Irish ‘turned into the mountains,’ ‘whereof many hundreds are perished,’ The Catholics are testing the Protestants, to analyze whether they are strong enough to become Irish. It goes on to say ‘Now you are wild Irish men as we’ this tells us that the writer believes that Catholics feel so strongly towards their religion that they will do anything for it. Does Source G Show Why Violence Broke Out in 1969? This source is unreliable because it is a drawn picture that only shows a biased point of view. However this does give us a possibly exaggerated image of how the Protestants were treated by Catholics. Source G shows violence drawn 330 years before the troubles of 1969. This source could lead to violence because the Protestants may want revenge, and considering that there were many pictures like this one drawn in the 1600’s we have to understand that these images could have been used as propaganda against the Catholics. It is small things like this that helped toward the outbreak in 1969. Source H Source H is a photograph of Royal Ulster Constabulary offices trying to take charge of an out of control civil rights march on the 5th of October 1968, in Derry. The photo shows a couple of Catholics so they may have been the hard to deal with trouble makers who took it too far, but they are shielding their heads and trying to run away whilst the RUC (Protestants) are in charge. From the source we know that the Protestants used violence to stop this march. But were they forced into using violence? Was it the only way they could get to the Catholic protesters? However from the source we are led to understand that the Catholics are weaponless, and that they are not fighting back. The Catholics have obviously started this march because they are unhappy about the way that they are treated. Does Source H Show Why Violence Broke Out in 1969? Because source H is a photograph we know that it is a fact. However from it, like any photos, we have a ‘snapshot’ from only a few seconds of the whole civil rights march we do not know what happened before or after this photograph was taken. Because of this we can only guess why the RUC had to lead to violence. No one is going to understand who started the fight from this source, or why it lead to what looks like horrific violence. From what we know source H contains violence and as it was taken in 1968 just one year before the outbreak in 1969 this source could of definitely lead to violence. I would say that this source is accurate to some extent but because it is just a few moments worth it is still fairly unreliable. In comparison this photograph is pure fact no matter how much information it can give us. Source I This source is a photograph of a peaceful civil rights march in 1968. underneath the source it tells us the economic demands of the protestors ‘One house, one man, one job’. By this time period all Catholics wanted an equal, civilized society. The picture shows police standing calmly as it seems that there is no trouble to be expected. From the source we can see that the march is a well organized non-violent protest. Does Source I Show Why Violence Broke Out in 1969? Because this is a photo we know that it is a fact, however this photo contains the very opposite to source H. Although the scene looks like a peaceful civil rights protest it could have stormed into violence at any minute, therefore I cannot trust this source. If this protest was created after the march in source H the conditions would have improved; but personally I believe that Source I was taken before source H. I feel this way because after the Catholics had tried to protest in a peaceful manner they were still not listened to, so they would have got impatient and therefore turned to violence to show that they are serious. My theory would also explain why this source the could of led to the trouble in 1969. This source is accurate yet unreliable because we do not have enough data. Conclusion I believe that although not all the sources were entirely reliable, they would all be somewhat useful towards why the troubles broke out in 1969. The only source that I found entirely reliable was source F because it gives us stated facts containing accurate data. Sources H and I are both photographs and although they are both also facts, they contain image proof and dates and to me they show the clearest ideas as to what happened, they are however fairly unreliable because as I mentioned earlier we do not know what happened before or after the photo was taken. Sources D, E and G are all biased, therefore they are not bound to be truthful and are exaggerated facts. Although because of these sources we now know how people were made to think about Protestants and Catholics. We understand that biased points of views were spread about the two different religions as if it were propaganda, this could have also led to some of the violence in 1969. Personally I feel that sources D, E and G show how people have spread thoughts and feelings and brainwashed the rest of the country into civil war, as well as clearly showing the religious tensions that has lead to riots, bombing terrorism and violence. Overall on their own these sources did not give sufficient evidence to tell us why the trouble broke out in 1969, we needed more evidence about why the Easter Rising corrupted. In comparison I feel that when combined the sources are rather reliable.

Nodody Won Essay

Abstract When the Arthur Andersen LLP/Enron scandal surfaced in 2001, there was much confusion as to whom committed what crime and how many employees were actually involved. After the facts and criminal charges were final, the sequence of events makes sense; the union of two companies, the rise of the participating executives, and finally the end of the money ride. The leaders of both companies used dishonesty to make an abundant amount of money and gain power status (Thomas 2002). Christopher Bergland said it best when he wrote, â€Å"Karma is a boomerang and the long-term shame and anxiety of cheating will ultimately negate the short-term gains of victory,† . This definitely held true for the employees who were disgraced at the conclusion of the legal proceedings; they may have had more money than they needed, but they ultimately lost in the end. The Beginning The joining between Arthur Andersen LLP and Enron was a marriage too good to be true . The relationship started in 1986 when Enron hired the accounting firm Arthur Andersen LLP to perform â€Å"creative accounting,† allowing the energy company to appear more powerful on paper than it really was . Enron Corporation started investing massive amounts of money in â€Å"Special Purpose Entities† to generate huge amounts of revenues. Special Purpose Entities are creative ways for companies to more efficiently raise debt, but they also make it tougher for investors to decipher a company’s actual debt exposure . Company Backgrounds Both companies were built on determination, dedication, and hard work. The founder, Arthur Andersen, who was orphaned at the age of 16, worked as a mailboy during the day and attended school at night. By the age of 23, he became the youngest CPA in Illinois. A mere five years later he started his own accounting firm . The same mind set Andersen possessed in his teen years carried over to his adult life. He realized the key to his business succeeding was by â€Å"†¦promoting integrity and sound audits†¦Ã¢â‚¬  . Enron was founded on the same characteristics plus a few others: pride, arrogance, and greed. Kenneth Lay wanted to have the largest money making company he could and succeeded by pushing for deregulation of the power industry. In 1985, Mr. Lay took advantage of the government’s decision to let gas prices fluctuate/float with the currents of the market. By doing this, Enron grew from 10 billion to 65 billion in assets in 16 years . Lay had visions of what he wanted Enron to be and then sold them to his staff. Hitting it Big In order for a new idea to be successful, a leader with self-assurance and confidence must be present. Mr. Lay found these qualities present in Jeffrey Skilling and hired him as a Chief Executive Officer. Skilling believed in the survival of the fittest. He had an opinion that money is the only incentive that motivated people and he created a competitive, ruthless, and cutthroat workplace. Skilling implemented the Performance Review Committee. Performance Review Committee, or PRC, is an employee evaluation system which graded workers from 1-5, 5 being the lowest and resulting in dismissal from the company. The Enron staff knew it better as â€Å"rank and yank† . One employee who was a trader was quoted saying, â€Å"†¦if I can get a $5 million bonus for stepping on someone’s toes, I’ll stomp on their throat†¦Ã¢â‚¬  . Both companies worked hard to build a reputation. Andersen expected all of his staff to be honest and always to put the client’s needs in front of their own agenda unless it involved falsifying documentations. Early in the company’s beginning, Mr. Andersen was faced with a moral decision concerning fabricating records for a client. Andersen, with his integrity intact, refused . The firm continued with the â€Å"think straight and talk straight† tradition after the death of Andersen and through the transition of promoted employee Leonard Spacek .With Spacek at the controls, the company continued to thrive while remaining committed to the regimented management style of the founder . Offices were opened throughout the United States, then ultimately around the world. At this point, the firm started consulting as well as offering audits. Under Spacek’s supervision, Arthur Andersen LLP became one the most prominent accounting firms labeling them as one of the â€Å"Big Five† . The company grew so immensely that Spacek had to turn down clients. Enron had the same growth spurt as Andersen. In a few short years, the company became the seventh largest corporation. It was touted as being led by the best and the brightest . Ken Lay, Cliff Baxter, Jeff Skilling, and Lou Pi were men who thought they were unstoppable. These ruthless leaders took huge risks in order to make money. They were failing miserably, but Ken Lay reported otherwise to the public. He said in news conferences that Enron was thriving and prospering because of his staff’s willingness to take risks. With the growing of both firms, it was evident that structural changes were needed. Structural Changes at Andersen The client load for Andersen was becoming too much for just one company. It was evident that balancing the commitment to auditing while adding a consulting practice was so much of a struggle that Arthur Andersen LLP decided to create another division within the company. In the mid-1980’s, the majority of Andersen’s revenues were being generated from the consulting fees, but were still being dispersed with the accounting side . This caused a strain between the two parties. The consultants felt since they were contributing more to the company their salaries should be increased. The only solution was to change the current organizational structure and create two divisions. Andersen Consulting along with Arthur Andersen LLP became subunits of Andersen Worldwide Organization . Spacek, like his predecessor, was a leader who liked to be seen by his staff, was well informed of business dealings, and continued to encourage honesty. Being decentralized allowed the decision-making to be made by the divisions, branches, departments, or subsidiaries . Both parts of Andersen Worldwide Organization could operate however they chose and make their own decisions, including which clients they took on. Ultimately, it was the accounting division that took on Enron. How the Two Companies Fit Enron officials knew that Andersen had made some questionable decisions in the past and were coming off of a quiet lawsuit that involved some â€Å"creative accounting† . Andersen fit the profile that Skilling knew he needed in order for his visions to work. With Andersen being divided up into two divisions, Spacek could not control what was happening in both sides of the firm. Lay, on the other hand, knew exactly what his executives were doing . Enron hired the accounting firm to make the energy company to appear more powerful on paper than it really was . Enron Corporation started investing massive amounts of money in â€Å"Special Purpose Entities† to generate huge amounts of revenues. Special Purpose Entities are creative ways for companies to more efficiently raise debt, but they also make it tougher for investors to decipher a company’s actual debt exposure . They were also using mark-to-market to book potential future profits regardless of actual money. Profits were whatever Enron said they were based on hypothetical future value or HFV. Mike Muckleroy, a former Enron executive, warned Mr. Lay of the risks associated with betting on the oil market, but Lay did not change any policies or procedures. In fact, he approved of the current behaviors. Lay sent out a memo to his executives saying to keep up the good work. As long as money was being made, he chose to ignore the dishonesty. The money ride came to a sudden halt in 2001. For approximately sixteen years, Arthur Andersen LLP would audit Enron’s financial statements. Not only would the accounting firm provide external audit services, but also handle the internal auditing processes as well. As Enron’s revenues dramatically increased year after year, the paperwork and audit information had to match accordingly. Enron needed Arthur Andersen’s employees to make the visual parallel happen and compensated them millions of dollars for their services. At one time, Arthur Andersen LLP had approximately one hundred people assigned distinctively to Enron. There had become such a significant amount of work that accounting offices were designated for the accounting employees and staff was transferred to Enron’s headquarters in Houston. Eventually, the responsibility of Enron’s Chicago and London locations were added to their caseloads making Enron one of Arthur Andersen LLP’s largest clients worldwide . Pump-n-Dump Top leaders in both firms were making an obscene amount of money. An anonymous tip was given to authorities about former President of Enron, Louis Borget. It was said he had taken over three million dollars of corporate funds and put it into his own account, and that was just the beginning. Enron reported a loss in the third quarter earnings at the same time as a reduction of stockholder equity. Former CEO Jeff Skiing, current CEO Kenneth Lay, and other executives started to sell large amounts of Enron stock as prices dropped from $90 to less than a dollar; this practice was called â€Å"pump-n-dump† . This scheme allowed top executives to push the stock prices up then cash in their multimillion dollar options. Lou Pi was the leader for Enron Energy Services at the time and after he sold his stock using this method, he made profited $250 million . Selling of this much stock gained attention of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission which led to an investigation. It was apparent that a divorce, a trial, and probably prison time was in the near future for Arthur Andersen LLP and Enron leaders who were involved. No matter what the outcome of the trial was going to be, the once impeccable Arthur Andersen and powerhouse Enron were doomed companies because the damage had already been done. Crumbling Companies Andersen’s company, once led by an honest, visible leader who was filled with integrity by making ethical choices was now being led by greedy, selfish executives who saw dollar signs instead of morals. Andersen’s reputation was ruined and finding clients was going to be next to impossible because of the publicity the scandal received. David Duncan who was responsible for the Enron audit, was fired by Arthur Andersen LLP for mass destruction of Enron documents and Enron relieved Arthur Andersen LLP of all accounting and auditing duties . Even though Arthur Andersen pled not guilty to the charges brought against them, the final decision of the courts was Arthur Andersen LLP was found guilty of obstruction of justice and received five years probation, had to pay a $500,000 fine, lost their license in the state of Texas, and ceased their auditing services. Resulting in a devastating loss of clientele and over 7,000 workers had to find new jobs . More people were affected by Enron’s outcome than that of Arthur Andersen’s. After the investigation, Enron filed bankruptcy, over 20,000 people lost jobs, many officials served a prison sentence, and shareholders lost tens of billions of dollars . As officials dug deeper into the scam, recovered documents and many of the testimonies revealed many banks were guilty as well. Bank employees detailed how the banks engineered fake transactions to keep billions of dollars of debt off Enron’s balance sheet and create the illusion of increasing earnings and operating cash flow . As a result, stricter accounting laws regarding audits were later passed by the SEC . Conclusion In this situation, having a leader who exhibits good judgment, morals, ethical conduct, and integrity can strengthen an alliance within a work place. When Arthur Andersen and Leonard Spacek were the supervisors, Arthur Andersen LLP was a major company with a flawless reputation that was completely shattered by a few employees who did not exemplify such characteristics as the former leaders. Arthur Andersen LLP split into two separate divisions, which I think was the correct move because the company was growing and the current staff could not handle the clientele load. In order for the split to work, though, both units needed supervisors like what the company was founded on; managers who could be trusted and held accountable. If I was a partner in Andersen and realized what was being committed, I would have tried to put an end to it. Maybe if someone had the gumption to stand up for what was right, many jobs could have been saved and investor’s money would not have been lost. Enron, on the other hand, was dishonest from the beginning and it was only a matter of time before the leaders were caught of wrong doings. Enron, in my opinion, was being led by the inspiring leaders with excellent leadership skills and work ethics; they just did not have the morals to go with it. Mr. Borget was the first to get caught; Ken Lay was aware of Borget’s actions, but ignored it because he was not incriminated or even suspected yet, but as history reveals, his time was coming . Finally several years later, Lay and his associates received their forthcoming. In the 2001 trial, Ken Lay was charged with 11 criminal acts. Jeff Skilling was sentenced to prison and to this day still claims he did nothing wrong, Cliff Baxter committed suicide before he was to appear in court, and Lou Pi lost 6 million in an insurance policy from the corporation, but never saw any jail time . Had Andersen Worldwide Organization declined on Enron’s business proposal, the accounting firm may have continued to grow and possibly dominate the number’s world. From my point of view, this scandal was a lose-lose situation to everybody involved, from entry level positions all the way up to Chief Executive Officers. Enron became a major power-house in sixteen years and only took 24 days to collapse and go bankrupt . A devastating ending to both firms; several criminal charges were filed against numerous employees, hearings were held, and the companies which were built on ambition and drive were destroyed and are no longer are in existence. In this case, nobody won. References Answers. (2012). Retrieved from Advantages and disadvantages of centralization and decentralization?: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Advantages_and_disadvantages_of_centralization_and_decentralization BBC. (2003). The Enron Affair. Retrieved from BBC News: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_depth/business/2002/enron/ Bergland, C. (2012). Cheater’s Never Win. Psychology Today. Brickley, J., Smith, C. & Zimmerman, J. (2009). Managerial Economis and Organizational Architecture (5th Ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Irwin. Byrne, T. (2002). Special- Purpose Entities Are Often A Clever Way to Raise Debt Levels. Retrieved from nyu.edu: http://pages.stern.nyu.edu/~adamodar/New_Home_Page/articles/specpurpentity.htm Findlaw. (2003). Indictment (US v. Arthur Andersen, LLP). Retrieved from News: http://news.findlaw.com/hdocs/docs/enron/usandersen030702ind.html FundingUniverse. (2005). Anderson History. Retrieved from FundingUniverse: http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/andersen-history/ Geller, R. (2002). Background of the Banks’ Role in the Enron Debacle. Retrieved from The Enron Fraud: http://www.enronfraud.com/ Gibney, A. (Director). (2004). Enron-Smartest Guys in the Room [Motion Picture]. Houston Chronicle. (2002, April 19). Hot Topic Anderson. Houston Chronicle. Investopedia. (2011). The Enron Collapse: A Look back. Retrieved from Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/1211/The-Enron-Collapse-A-Look-Back.aspx#axzz23riaPOrn NewsHour. (2002). Enron: After the Collapse. Retrieved from PBS: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/business/enron/player6.html Thomas, W. (2002). The Rise and Fall of Enron. Retrieved from Journal of Accountancy: http://www.journalofaccountancy.com/Issues/2002/Apr/TheRiseAndFallOfEnron.htm Wikipedia. (2012). Arthur Anderson. Retrieved from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Andersen

Understanding Leadership as a Theory

Understanding Leadership as a Theory 06 June 2012 word count: 250 By: Author The purpose of this essay is to discuss what I have learned by reading this weeks assigned chapter in regards to understanding leadership as a theory. I will discuss the building blocks of â€Å"theory', as well as take a look at the organization in which I work in to take a look at variables that may be used to evaluate the performance of the President of my company.Leadership as a theory in chapter 3 mentions a great Tory of the Janitor at NASA working late because the president had instilled in him a sense of pride that made him want to work late without getting paid. However, when looking at the Anatomy of Theory we find that it can be broken down into specific units, â€Å"namely, the theory itself, followed by subordinate constructs, variables, and personalized measures† (Ludlow, G. R. & Copula, M. N. , 2011).I found my looking at these specific units; it became clearer on how leadership as a t heory can be utilized to learn how to become a better leader. I would have to agree that this chapter was o pedantic, In that it seemed to break down things too deep. Within my organization the senior leadership Is measured based upon his ability to lead and make tough decisions. Because we are non-profit organization, research, and academic that Includes clinics, we must have a leader that understands the many facets of the business.The variables that must be used Include knowledge, ability, and skill at a CEO level In order to understand how the college operates. â€Å"Given that leadership knowledge comes from several disciplines, It Is Important to use social science-based methods to provide clarity to the study of leadership† ( Ludlow, G. R. & Copula, M. N. , 2011). I believe that If you look Into each aspect of the business, you will find that all these variables mentioned can be placed Into each part of the operations. References Ludlow, G.R. & Copula, M. N. (2011). Le adership for Healthcare Professionals: Theory, Skills, and Applications. Sturdy, Maine: Jones and Bartlett Learning. Understanding Leadership as a Theory By mike floors WIDE : Understanding Leadership as a Theory too pedantic, in that it seemed to break down things too deep. Within my organization the senior leadership is measured based upon his ability to lead and academic that includes clinics, we must have a leader that understands the many facets of the business.

Overview of eZediaMX Essay

The main objective of eZediaMX is to allow both Windows and Micorsoft users to author, edit and publish multimedia content with a UI that caters without discrimination to general and expert users. The development of the program is considered as another indication of the market’s demand of ease in migrating and publishing between platforms. The UI of eZediaMX tries to create a common ground for both Windows and Mac users by combining functions and commands and at the same time functioning as an independent interface between the two operating systems. The setup of the buttons and layout of the workspace borrows elements arbitrarily and at the same time, there is use of elements or functions unique to the eZediaMX either as means or resolving conflicts between sytems or to establish features unique to the program. Mersereau (2002) points out that eZediaMX do not require any significant technology literacy and is very flexible. However, Hanno (2003) implies that there should the need for familiarity in media production and interface distinctions between platforms available. Figure modeling for example can be done through time sequence or the use coding and macros. According to the company’s website, the objective is not to position eZediaMX as a substitute programs for franchise media programs but allow users the opportunity publish arbitrarily between operating systems. Thus, the focus is on the media produced rather than the process (eZedia, 2007). In the review done by Roy (2003), there may still be conflicts regarding language both of the media produced and the program itself because of macro and security issues, there has not been any significant issues raised by users.

Alexander The Great

Alexander The Great Essay Alexander The Great Essay is said to be one of the greatest conquerors of all time, and yet, his significance in battle showed up late in his life. His early years were spent in poverty, and as the years progressed, his dream of being a war hero grew dimmer and dimmer.Ironically, while he was later known as a war hero, he was still feared by all because of his reputation as a drinker and murderer. But first, his background. He was born in 356 BC. His parents were Philip, the brother of King Perdiccas III of Macedon, in Northern Greece. His mother was Olympias, daughter of King Neoptolemus I of Epirus, in modern Albania. He also had a younger sister, Cleopatra (not the famous Egyptian queen).However, this family was not as ordinary as one might think. In fact, his parents absolutely hated each other. Philip had complied with Macedonian tradition and had a few wives. Soon, one of his wives had a baby which had mysteriously become disabled after birth. It was said that the disability was due to poisoning from Olympias. Olympias sometimes told Alexander that Philip wasnt his real father, but this probably wasnt true.After all, Philip certainly did seem to care for Alexander as if he was his real son. He even appointed Aristotle himself as Alexanders first and only tutor. Yet, there were some things about Alexander that made Philip angry. He hated the fact that his was very skinny and the fact that he had a high-pitched voice. Still, Alexander felt lucky to have this man as his father and mentor. In 359 BC, when Alexander was three, Philips Brother, King Peridcaas III, died. It was originally planned that his son, Amyntas, was tosucceed him with Philip as his regent, but Philip usurped his nephews throne and made himself King Philip II. In a few decades, he proved to be a stronger king and he eventually conquered most of Greece. When he was in his teens, Alexanders father came to him one day and told him that he had to leave to fight in a war. Thus Alexander, being his regent, would have to serve for the time being. While his father was away, Alexander led an expedition to a wild region of modern day Bulgaria. Here, he found a race of wild barbarians, whom he later subdued. He, then, established his first city, Alexandropolis, at the site of this defeat. This made his strength apparent to everyone and consequently became general of his fathers army. However, things still werent amiable between father and son. On one occasion, Philip was attacked and hurt by rioters and he fell and played dead on the ground. Alexander shielded the attackers away and his father lived, but he never acknowledged the fact that Alexander saved his life. Alexander deeply resented him for this. Alexander was known for his many temper tantrums. One memorable one was during a dinner party celebrating his final marriage. His uncle gave a toast saying that he hoped that they would have a child to take over throne. Alexander replied,; so am I just a bastard?; and he threw his goblet at his uncle. This started such a great brawl between the two that Philip stood up and drew his sword at Alexander, but fell over drunk before he got even close to him. To this Alexander yelled, ;Look, men,hes about to cross from Europe to Asia, and he falls crossing from chair to chair.; This incident forced Alexander and his mother to leave Macedon, but, several years later, they reconciled with him and moved back. However, soon after their return, Philip was stabbed by the Captain of his bodyguards while he was entering the theater that his nephews wedding was being held in. The assassin fled across a vineyard. READ: Roman Aqueducts: An Engineering Brilliance Essay He might have escaped, but a vine caught his foot and he tripped. He was killed by some other bodyguards instantly. Philips death in 336 BC lead Alexander to succeed him and become King Alexander III. By this time, he was twenty years old. It was said that he was an incredibly handsome man and he always was clean shaven. Although he was a heavy drinker, he .

How Religions Affect Countries Socially and Politically Essay

How Religions Affect Countries Socially and Politically - Essay Example it can very well be figured out that religion indeed has a far greater impact on the manner in which the country’s political and social environment takes shape. John J. Macionis defined religion as "A social institution involving beliefs and practices based on a conception of the sacred." Therefore, it is bound to have an impact on the manner in which the rulers of a country try to shape their political philosophy, because that what they consider to be good for their country and the people. If we take a look around, we can figure out a number of skirmishes taking place amongst groups, societies and countries. Religion seems to be one of the factors shaping the opinions and the behaviors of the people involved in the conflicts. It is a fact that no religion teaches hatred or intolerance towards other people in the society, but the manner in which the religious teachings are portrayed often impacts the social behavior. If we take a look at the Middle East conflict, we find a dee p divide amongst the followers of the two religions. The Middle East conflict between Israel and its neighbors, on the lines of religious beliefs, goes back to almost a century, but conflict has escalated more during the last over 60 years. The political spectrum in both the territories has been coming out with policies commensurate with their stated positions all this while. Despite efforts from different corners, the conflict is nowhere near to any solution even now. Now, terrorism, the dreaded word, also finds some of its threads attached to this conflict. But the net outcome of such conflict has not favored any particular country or territory. People from both the sides have suffered immensely and the developmental issues have been hit adversely but the irony is, even the newer generation on both the sides doesn't seem to have a say in resolving the conflict amicably. If we take a look at a country like Pakistan, we find that this Islamic nation has been in the news in recent days, for all the wrong reasons. The country has been under tremendous pressure from the Islamic clerics for quite some time now. Though the present regime came into power after a democratic process of elections during the recent past, but it also need to be remembered that Pakistan has had brushes with democracy in the past as well. In the past, there have a number of Military coups, taking over the reins of power in the country. Despite best efforts from some of the rulers of Pakistan, the religious bodies have always tried to dictate terms for framing policies, and it goes without saying that on many occasions such religious bodies have been able to have an upper hand. The recent incidents in Swat valley of Pakistan have raised many concerns about the future of democratic set up in the country. In order to restore peace in the region, the Pakistani government decided to ha nd over this valley, better known as 'Switzerland of Pakistan' to some of the religious heads on 15th of February2. From that day onward Islamic laws have come into force in the region, which implies many significant departures from the erstwhile democratic principles. It is quite apparent that the religion, being practiced by majority of the people in Pakistan had the upper hand in deciding about the future of the Swat valley. America is considered an icon of democracy all over the world. People from many faiths from around the world have made this country as their home. The policies and principles of the government provide full respect to all religions. But, if we are to point out the religion enjoying the best patronage, we'll come to the conclusion that it is indeed the Christianity. During the

Terrorism the Future, and US Foreign Policy Assignment

Terrorism the Future, and US Foreign Policy - Assignment Example The United States of America, in their capacity as one of the most powerful and resourceful countries, should be the world leaders in the fight against terrorism. A prime example of a terrorist attack is the attack on the World Trade Centre, which was a catalyst in causing other countries to be concerned about the global security threat. It stands to reason therefore, that 9/11 was a catalyst in the implementation of strategies to combat terrorism in the USA and other countries. The USA took some major steps in protecting the world from terrorists and acts of terrorism which were affecting other parts of the world as well. The initial step taken by the USA in the fight against terrorism was to find the leader of the terrorists, in doing that the USA took decisive action by sending forces to Afghanistan by way of Pakistan to find the group responsible for the terrorist act against the USA. The USA deployed its forces to these countries from 1999 to 2010, as a part of their policy. The services of almost 136 countries were offered for this purpose. In the month of November 2002 in an international law enforcement effort resulted in the arrests of three thousand (3,000) terrorists in over one hundred (100) countries. According to the words of Raphael Perl in â€Å"Terrorism, the Future, and US Foreign Policy,† the author outlined the background as that of the US foreign policy, in 1995, when there were 23% of terrorists who acted against the US citizens or their property. The second step was when they searched the entire country and found terrorists belonging to a particular religious group called Al Qaida, whose group leader was the infamous Osama Bin Ladin, who is the leader of a worldwide group of terrorists. Author Raphael Perl, in his book â€Å"Terrorism, the Future, and US Foreign Policy† writes about conflicting goals and action plans. (1) To protect the people from terrorism, (2) Developing policies to fight against terrorism. The USA worked very hard to maintain world peace and was working really hard to develop anti-terrorism policies by bearing the two points outlined above in mind. For dealing with the current asymmetrical threat to global security, the author outlined both future and current threats and the capabilities of the USA as well as the opportunities which presented themselves. He also outlined how to improve the policies and systems in relation to global security both for the present and future. The USA was very instrumental in removing Saddam Hussein from being the ruler of Iraq and in so doing, gave the local residents of Iraq human rights, protection, and freedom. To summarize this, the USA which is one of the most powerful countries in the world has taken steps in order to maintain world peace. To address global security, the USA has sought the help of many countries who, in assisting the USA has also eliminated the threat of terrorism as well as the terrorists in their own countries.  

Reputation and Privacy Issues in Distributed Computing Research Proposal

Reputation and Privacy Issues in Distributed Computing - Research Proposal Example However, researchers like Katsikas argue that the domain attained an independent identity only during the past 20 years and that there is a wide scope for further research and development (126). While current distributed models are capable of delivering high-speed, on-demand services via a shared pool of resources and can operate with minimal interaction or management, such recent advances have introduced several more dimensions into factors like privacy and data security that are critical when sharing information. Thus, distributed computing is widely regarded as a new programming paradigm that needs further research for better flexibility together with the identification and resolution of all outstanding issues related to information privacy and reputation (Katsikas 54). The proposed study aims to analyze and understand some of these issues and provide some useful solutions that may be incorporated in future implementations of distributed systems. The reasons for undertaking this r esearch and the necessity to understand this specific segment of distributed computing is elaborated in the subsequent sections. ... e element of trust that cannot be controlled by networks themselves becomes a crucial factor and is necessary for authorized and meaningful interaction among users (Hubner 195). Thus, the proper sharing of information across distributed networks is a challenge to network designers and engineers. Petkovic notes that the question of data privacy i.e., how to share information with accurate representation while maintaining privacy and designated delivery is one of the major questions currently being explored by researchers (187). While many studies have devised effective solutions that tackle privacy or reputation (trust) related issues, Subramanian argues that most of these have explored only a specific area (92). Thus, there is not much insight when it comes to evaluating both privacy and trust related methodologies that are capable of collectively solving the overall problem of proper information sharing. Questions remain on the robustness of current privacy framework and trust model s and the extent to which they can cope with a varying range of attacks. Dubitsky adds that existing techniques are not capable of utilizing any human characteristics or transcending beyond the use of trust as a validation of rules (165). The rapid surge in the use of mobile devices in distributed computing has introduced another important complexity into the equation besides raising new issues on reusable identity, ad-hoc access and transient communication. The growth of social networking over the past 5-6 years has also raised questions on the validity of identities and trust. Umar further adds that in a decentralized environment such as in distributed computing, human involvement is prone to introducing challenges in areas like human-computer interaction (HCI) (86). These