Book Review: Leading Change by John P. Kotter Essay

Leading Change by John P. Kotter. Harvard Business School Press, 1996. In light of the increasing rate of change in the business environment due to factors such as technological advances and globalization, the need to be able to make successful transformations within an organization becomes more imperative than ever before. In Leading Change, Kotter identifies an eight-step guide for making successful organization changes. These eight steps stem from avoiding common mistakes made during organizational change efforts seen in the past , such as: too much complacency; failing to create a powerful guiding coalition; underestimating the power of vision; under-communicating the vision; permitting obstacles to block a new vision; failing to create short term wins; declaring a victory too soon; and neglecting to anchor changes firmly into the organizational culture. To avoid these mistakes, leaders of an organization requiring changes should consider the following steps: 1. Establishing a sense of urgency 2. Creating a guiding coalition 3. Developing a vision and strategy 4. Communicating the change vision 5. Empowering broad-based action 6. Generating short-term wins 7. Consolidating gains and producing more change 8. Anchoring new approaches into the culture In establishing a sense of urgency , it is hoped that a leader of change will be able to direct stakeholders’ drive towards a common purpose and reduce  complacency. Common causes of complacency include : the absence of a crisis, low overall performance standards, wrong performance measurement indexes, too much happy talk from management, and lack of sufficient performance feedback from external sources. It is suggested that a leader creates a sense of purpose allowing weaknesses to be exposed, setting performance targets that are too high, analyze current opportunities and highlight the organizations inability to pursue them, and cut-down on the â€Å"happy talk† and listen to disgruntled customers. Very often, committees of employees devoted to making organizational change are ineffectual because they do not have the any influential, senior managers who can make changes happen and reinforce the urgency of the committee’s purpose to all levels. Kotter suggests careful selection of committee members to include senior management and influential people, with care taken to avoid those employees he labels â€Å"egos† and â€Å"snakes† (i.e. those employees whose egos may take precedence over the committees agenda and those people who may undermine the trust necessary to build strong committee relationships) By developing a vision, a leader creates â€Å"a picture of the future with some implicit or explicit commentary on why people should strive to create that future.† (p. 68) It not only clarifies direction but helps in motivating those people who will be affected and/or implementing change. Kotter gives examples of good and bad visions and suggests that a perfect vision should be clear and simple enough to explain within five minutes. A vision should also inspire people to force people out of their comfort zones, it should be challenging but attainable, and usually takes advantage of fundamental trends such as globalization or technological changes. In communicating the change vision, Kotter argues that in this day of information overload, talk of vision and strategy takes up only a small fraction of employee time and the ideas are often lost. Using analogies, repetition and the use of multiple forums for conveying change vision will help employees to understand and remember the ideas. Clear concise language is a must. To empower employees for broad-based action enables much more flexibility within an organization to adapt to a changing environment. Barrier to empowerment however exist in i) the organizational structure where resources are so fragmented that timely delivery of objectives is nearly impossible , ii) the skills of employees, iii) systems of the organization such as HR systems which advocate antiquated measures of performance which contradict new changes, iv) supervisors who are reluctant to change from the traditional command-and-control style of management. Despite the long-term nature of many organizational changes, Kotter suggests that the generation of short-term wins is of utmost importance and not necessarily at the expense of long-term benefits. He cites examples of CEOs who have implemented long term change initiatives but the failure to create short-term wins and tangible benefits made stakeholders impatient resulting in disenchantment. He reinforces the clear difference between management and leadership and their importance in the pursuit of short-term and long term goals (leadership being more long-term vision and strategy-oriented, management being more concerned with the pursuit goals in the immediate future). The achievement of short-term goals not only reinforces that scarifies made for long-term goal achievement are paying off. They also help to reward change agents and undermine cynics/anchors to change, they build momentum and can help fine-tune vision and strategies. After a short-term win, Kotter warns that it is all too tempting to relax and even regress in some cases back to old ways. All momentum of change is lost. To be able to consolidate gains and keep producing more change, he suggests that management increase urgency levels, and learn to understand and appreciate that interdependencies with in the organization dictate that when changes are made in one area, they often require further changes to be made in other areas or departments. Once changes have been made, it is then important to anchor them into the corporate culture. It is observed that culture is not easily manipulated so this should be done when all changes have been made. Changing â€Å"the way we do  things around here† is imperative so that regression to old practices is not experienced. To summarize, Kotter reinforces that an increasingly changing business environment is forcing decisions to be made quicker and organizations to become more flexible to external changes than ever before. Only with increased flexibility, teamwork and leaner organizations can a leader ever hope to make changes in response to these pressure. The leadership qualities of the change agents very important because they set the vision for others to follow. The importance of continual learning is also emphasized because leaders who are constantly changing themselves and going out of their comfort zones arguably are more able to leave those comfort zones in order to adapt to a changing environment.

How You Plan to Collect Data on Customers Essay

How you plan to collect data on customers, competitors and the market environment and why you think this will be useful. How do you propose to use this market research to understand the behaviour of customers, competitors and the market environment? Market research is a crucial factor to do for any organisation in order to make their business successful. In the case of STUDENTAL, it is a new product from Sainsbury’s. Therefore, Sainsbury’s have to do all the market research on customers, competitors and on market environment in point of fact. For this task, I have to collect data on customers, competitors and the market environment. To collect data on customers I am going to prepare some questionnaires and ask Customers questions regarding STUDENTAL. This will help me to get the true analysis from customers straight away. This will be more accurate than information collecting from other sources like internet and magazine. I have included a variety of questions to the questionnaire and I am sure that this will help me in understanding behaviour of customers towards energy drinks. In addition, I am also going to observe customers by going in to Sainsbury’s and other supermarkets. I will observe their buying attitudes towards energy drinks. This will help me to make suggestions to the future developments of STUDENTAL. Through observing and asking questions to customers, we will be able to analyse their likes, dislikes and attitudes towards energy drinks. We will able to apply this information to the STUDENTAL. To collect data on competitors, I am going to do a research on internet. There are many competitors for STUDENTAL. This includes the bigger brands like, Lucozade, Red Bull, Boost and Power Ade. I will check for the price and product descriptions of the competing products. Through this, we will be able to understand the similarities and non-similarities of STUDENTAL and other products. Internet research will be useful to identify similar drinks sold by ASDA and Tesco. This will help Sainsbury’s to make any further changes to the product to compete effectively with other supermarkets. Another useful method of collecting information on competitors will be doing a SWOT analysis, Boston Matrix and Product Life Cycle. SWOT analysis will be able to find out STUDENTAL’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. With the help of Boston Matrix, we will be able to understand and recognize the competing brands. To collect data on market environment, I am going to do a research on the packaging of STUDENTAL’s competitors. Using a PESTE-G will also help to find the necessary information on market environment. PESTE-G focuses on Political, Economical, Social, Technological and Green Issues. By doing a PESTE-G analysis, I will be able to understand all the external issues, which affects STUDENTAL and Sainsbury’s. The questionnaire used for collecting information from customers is attached and results obtained will be presented in the form of pie charts and bar charts as appropriate. Questionnaire – STUDENTAL Please tick one box for each question. 1. Your GenderMale Female 2. Age groupUnder 16 16 – 19 20 – 25 20 – 25 25 – 40 40 & over 3. Where did you first hear about STUDENTAL? In store From friends Advertisements On TV 4. How would you describe the taste of your favourite energy drink? Bitter Sweet Bitter & Sweet Bland 5. Which of the following drink do you buy? LucozadeRed bull Powerade Other 6. From where do you buy energy drinks? Supermarkets Sports shop Gym/fitness club Other 7. What price (per litre) do you think would be right for STUDENTAL? Under  £1.00 £1.00 –  £1.30  £1.30 –  £2.00 £3.00 and over 8. What price do you usually pay for these†¦. Lucozade ______Coca-cola _______ Redbull ______ Boost _______ Don’t know _______ 9. What kind of drink do you think the STUDENTAL is? Energy drink Health Drink Social drinkChildren’s drink 10. If you bought STUDENTAL, would the packaging be important to you? YesNo 11. Does it matter if the packaging is recyclable? YesNo 12. How often do you drink energy drinks? DailyTwice a week Once a weekmonthly 13. When do you drink energy drink? MorningWith Lunch When Excising When working Thank you for filling out this questionnaire – Sebil To get the data on customers, I have asked customers 13 questions. To make it more effective, I asked questions to a both Males and Females. I also made sure to ask the questions to a mixture of people from different age groups. 1. Firstly, the question was about surveyed people’s gender. I asked the questions to 25 people. It included 15 Males and 10 Females. This indicates that people from both gender groups have been engaged in this survey. The above charts shows that 40% of total participants were Females and 60% of them were Males. 2. The second question was about the surveyed people’s Age Group. There was a mixture of people from different age groups. However, a large percentage of people were from the 16-19 age group. I think this will help Sainsbury’s, as STUDENTAL’s direct target market is peoples from 16-19. The above chart represents the age group of the people who participated in the survey. 16% of total participants were under 16. There were 54% of people from 16-19 age group. 22% of total participants were between 20-35 age. 8% of them were above 40 years old. This indicates that a mixture of people from all age groups participated in this survey. This will definitely help Sainsbury’s in the case of market research. 3. I asked the people about STUDENTAL after the second question. I asked them, where did you first hear about STUDENTAL? This question was to check whether they know about the product already or not. 80% of surveyed people said that they heard about the product from their friends. 20% of them said, from store. 4. How would you the taste of your favourite energy drink? This question was to understand people’s favourite taste. From the chart above, we can we clearly see that about 30% of people like bitter taste, 40% of them like sweet, 20% of them like bitter and sweet and finally, 10% of them like bland taste. Sainsbury’s may make STUDENTAL’s taste bitter or sweet as from the chart we can understand that most of the people like sweet and bitter taste 5. Which of the following drink do you buy? This question asked to find out the popular brand among the public. In addition, when STUDENTAL will be launched that popular brand will be the main competitor with STUDENTAL. The chart above represents the participators’ favourite energy drink. 30% of total participants like Red Bull Energy Drinks while 40% of th`em said that they like Lucozade. 6. From where do you buy energy drinks? This question was asked to know the place from customers buy energy drinks. About half of the people are buying their energy drinks from supermarkets. This is a very good signal for Sainsbury’s as they are going to sell STUDNTAL at their stores. 7. What price (per litre) do you think would be right for STUDENTAL? This question was asked to find out how much money people would spend on STUDENTAL when it is available in supermarkets. 40% of total participants thinks that STUDENTAL’s price will well be right if it is under  £1.00. Another 40% thinks that the price will be right if it is between  £1.00 and  £1.30. This indicates that the current price of STUDENTAL is high and there will be only very few customers who are willing to buy STUDENTAL at a cost of  £13.9/litre. 8. What price do you usually pay for energy drinks? This question will help to find out the people’s buying behaviour. The above chart shows that how much money they are spending on energy drinks. 44% of them are spending  £1.00 to  £1.50 for energy drinks. 36% of them are only prepared to spend less than  £1.00. As the chart indicates, people are not willing to buy energy drinks for higher prices. Therefore, Sainsbury’s must have to adjust the price accordingly. 9. What kind of drink do you think the STUDENTAL is? The above chart shows the answers for the question, what kind of drink do you think the STUDENTAL is? Most of the people do not know that STUDENTAL is an energy drink. I think this is due to the name STUDENTAL. It does not have the power to represent an energy drink. 10. If you bought STUDENTAL, would the packaging be important to you? This was one of the important questions asked to the participants. 90% of them said that they do care about the packaging of STUDENTAL. 11. Does it matter if the packaging is recyclable? This was another important question included in the questionnaire. 70% of participants said that they do care about the packaging and they want it to be recyclable. 12. How often do you drink energy drinks? The above chart shows that 10% of total participants consume energy drinks daily, 30% of them consume it twice in a week, 40% of them consume it weekly and 20% of them consume energy drinks monthly.

AP American HistoryEarly American Nationalism And Reform

AP American HistoryEarly American Nationalism And Reform Essay, Research Paper The rise of in-migration in the mid seventeenth century lead to a spirit of national reform in the United States. Many Europeans, peculiarly the Irish and the German, immigrated to America during the 1800s. There were many different grounds for their in-migration, and when they came they influenced American civilization greatly. The United States changed sacredly, because of the German and Irish, politically because of the German and Irish, and economically/socially by virtuousness of the struggles between the Irish and the inkinesss and the influence of the Germans on instruction. When the Germans and the Irish immigrated to America, they greatly affected us sacredly. With the tremendous influx of the Irish and the Germans in the 1840s and 1850s, the Roman Catholics became the powerful spiritual group. Seeking to protect their kids signifier Protestant instruction in the public schools, these Roman Catholics began to build a separate Catholic educational system. This was tremendously expensive for the hapless immigrant community, but revealed the strength of its spiritual committedness. ? Native? Americans were concerned that this? foreign rabble? would set up the Catholic Church at the disbursal of Protestantism. The Americans formed a party known as the? Know-Nothing? party, given its name because it was so close. This party wanted stiff limitations on naturalisation and in-migration and Torahs leting the exile of foreigners. This group besides caused occasional rabble force against the Catholic schools and churches. This lead to national reform because the Irish and the Germans had, in a manner, created a new dominant faith, and helped make more spiritual diverseness. The Irish and the Germans were highly influential in American political relations. The Irish possessed an extreme hatred for the British. As the Irish increased their population in the United States to about two million, politicians frequently found it politically good to di ss and roast England. Most Germans who came to Ameri ca came because America was one of the brightest hopes of democracy. German progressives with their thoughts about bondage and public corruptness contributed to the upheaval of American political life. Like the Irish, the Germans were influential electors whom the American politicians took great advantage of. However, the Germans were less influential because their strength was more widely scattered. The Irish besides affected the United States economically and socially. The Irish came to America because of the atrocious murphy dearth in Ireland. They came to America excessively hapless to travel West to purchase land, equipment and farm animal. Forced to populate in poorness they worsened the already hapless slum conditions. As rivals for occupations, the Irish ferociously hated the inkinesss. The Irish, along with the inkinesss, were at the underside of the societal ladder and competed for humble, low-income occupations. However in some instances, the Irish began to derive control of metropolis machines, most notably, New York? s Tammany Hall. Before long Irishmen dominated police sections in a considerable sum of the larger metropoliss. This modified the American economic system because now the southern plantation proprietors could be less reliant on slaves. Subsequently on, this helped the southern economic system because when they made the slave trade illegal, the southern plantation proprietors had already become less dependent on their slaves, because now they besides had inexpensive Irish labour. The Germans helped determine American instruction when they emigrated signifier Germany. The Germans came to America better educated them the? Native? Americans. They supported public schooling, and introduced us into one of their thoughts known as kindergarten. The Germans besides did many things to excite the acquisition and cognition of humanistic disciplines and music. This influenced America socially by bettering our instruction with new thoughts, and bett er cognition. America was greatly influenced in the 1800? s by the rise of in-migration, chiefly the Irish and the Germans. Immigration led to a spirit of national reform by impacting America politically, economically/socially, and sacredly. 376

Creating strategy for company Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Creating strategy for company - Case Study Example Acquisition-led growth strategy This is one of the major strategic issues stated in the case which was said to be suited in a widely globalizing market. Prior to digging on this issue further, let us examine first other important strategic issues. ABB tried to adapt certain capacity to be global in coverage and this resulted to its strategic move to optimize resources in order to have competitive edge in cost leadership. For instance, the company tried to improve its economies of scale and scope by specializing in the production of major product’s components around the world. Not only that, ABB also tried to come up with feasible cost saving measures such as component outsourcing and overhead cuts. Based on the idea of Levitt (1984) on globalization, the idea of ABB to go global is therefore a matter of necessity. The very reason is the fact that in globalization, there is an attempt on the part of an organization to come up with goods of the best quality and reliability yet a t the lowest price possible in order to compete. This is the very reason why ABB needs to consider two important dimensions in its structure: products and region just prior to be highly competitive in the global setting. It is implied that in order to obtain competitive advantage according to Porter (1998), the two factors that need to be taken into account are attractiveness of industries and relative competitive position. According to Porter, it is not an assurance that certain competitive advantage can be achieved if only one of these two factors is considered. In other words, certain firm aiming to reach its competitive advantage needs to be certain about the competitiveness of industries and its relative competitive position. This is also the very reason why ABB eventually needs to consider operating local. The local presence of a certain company contributes to its potential to top in the competition especially in the industry where ABB belongs. Thus, ABB finally decided to con sider an acquisition-led growth strategy, a sort of its focus competitive strategy based on Porter’s generic competitive strategies (Porter, 1998). ABB believes that with this strategy while it stays in its goal to be global, it can also increase its local presence in order to enhance its competitive advantage. However, there is basically a contradiction in this. ABB aiming to go global needs also to stand local is a form of contradiction at some point. Levitt (1984) pointed out that poor execution may be a significant problem in this situation due to the fact that what exists in the local trend may not be what is in the global setting and vice versa. This is a potential reason why ABB failed with its acquisition-led growth strategy and to some extent, the management considered having incurred bad purchases of some of its acquired companies. In this case, Porter and Levitt’s theories of competitive advantage and globalization proved to be highly significant in understa nding the success of ABB in the midst of ongoing competition in the global setting. The very proofs are specific situations just presented earlier in this section. In fact, based on these theories, ABB’s success can be significantly assessed and the reasons of its failures may be substantially explained. This proves further that the theories of Porter and Levitt are useful in formulating future strategies for various firms in both local and global context. Novel structure Another issue facing ABB is its ability

First Constitutional Amendment and Protection of Freedom Research Paper

First Constitutional Amendment and Protection of Freedom - Research Paper Example It furnishes the right of vocalization liberally; showing their apprehension about the government scheme to the residents/press of United States. The objective of this analysis is to understand the first amendment to the constitution and freedom of speech. First rectification in the Bill of Rights satisfies the fundamental legitimate right, i.e. autonomy of speech. It grants us the authority to express our opinions concerning the government scheme, state condition, and industrial conditions. However, it can be limited during wartime or any other condition; for example, if autonomy of oration grows into a cause of a vilification, obscenity, violation of law and order requirements, etc. it could be limited. First section of the first amendment forbids the Congress to bestow any supremacy or preference assuming one religion over other. It has patently bordered Congress to admire everybody despite everything of religion or non-religion. Nonetheless, this was only enforced on federal auth orities but later, under the internalization conviction, picked out sustenance was wielded to the states.

Dissertation critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Dissertation critique - Essay Example The research methodology is also not included in the introduction chapter to inform the reader about the approach adapted by the author to address the issue. The research study and findings have been included in the dissertation in the form of three main chapters. Each chapter revolves around one important factor of study; namely economical, political and cultural impacts. The hypotheses involving these three factors are stated in their respective chapters instead of discussing them in the ‘Introduction’ chapter. The first study involves the economic impacts of the integration of computer technology in out societies. The summary of the hypothesis that have been developed for the study on the basis of the economic factors are as follows; - Information and communication technologies (ICT) have a direct relationship with the foreign investments in the region; this hypothesis has been proved by the aid of some relevant literature and the reader gets convinced that there exists a direct casual relationship between the two factors. - The second hypothesis attempts to deduce a direct causal relationship between the different forms of government with the integration level of ICT. The author includes literature regarding the relationship between the form of government and the number of foreign investments in this hypothesis but does not address the relationship between the integration of ICT and the form of government in the society. This hypothesis is more related to politics than economics therefore it does not seem suitable for the analysis of economic impacts. The research methodology consisted of identification of the sample set of three high income countries. The research about the chosen sample countries’ GDP over the time period of 2001-2005 has been exhaustive. However, the research approach has not been specified i.e. the author does not mention if a deductive approach is

Principles of Finance 1 Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Principles of Finance 1 - Term Paper Example The risk and return of the proposed investment project requires a study of the project’s cash flows. To analyze the profitability of the investment project, one method that may be done is to make use of the net present value (NPV) method. NPV is the difference between the present value of cash inflows and the present value of cash outflows. A positive NPV means that the project is acceptable while a negative NPV means that the project is not profitable. Once a decision has been reached to undergo the project, the next step is to determine the sources of financing and establish the appropriate financing mix. Here lies the decision on whether to use debt or equity to maximize the value of the investment. Also, the source of financing should match the nature of the asset being financed. If a decision is made to finance the project through debt, it must also be determined whether it will be a long-term debt or a short-term debt. Long-term debt can be a term loan with a bank or a b ond issuance. A bond is like a loan because it is also a debt instrument. It is issued for a period of more than a year with the purpose of raising capital for borrowing. Its difference from a term loan is that it is generally offered to the public rather than to a single lender or a small group of lenders.

The Battle of Gettysburge Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Battle of Gettysburge - Research Paper Example Two divisions of Confederates advanced to Gettysburg on July 1, running west of the town into Federal cavalry and thus starting the skirmish. While the Union’s men were less than 20,000, Lee sent 25,000 men for the battle. After the pushed back Federals regrouped south of the town, Lee ordered Confederate General R.S. Eswell to take measures to sieze the high ground to deter the Federals. The hesitation by General Eswell provided the Union troops with an opportunity to bring in reinforcements and artillery by digging in along the Cemetery Ridge, thus waiving the opportunity for Lee. Meade anticipated increased defense for his position with the arrival of 100,000 men’s reinforcements. Confederate General James Longstreet suggested Lee to leave the Union position alone, considering it nearly impregnable. But Lee believed in the invincibility of his own army and was without cavalry which was of immense help to him during the troop movements. Considering the southern end of the Cemetery Ridge less well defended, Lee resolved to attack the defensive position of the Union Army there. While Lee had ordered General Longstreet to attack on July 2 on 10 a.m., Longstreet did not commence the attack until 4 p.m. This delay further strengthened the position of the Union Army (Soodalter, 2013). The fighting in which some ground was lost by the Federals but maintained a strong defense along the Cemetery Ridge ended around 10:30 p.m. Planning for the next day, Meade decided to wait for attack by Lee, keeping his army in place. Against the suggestion of Longstreet, Lee decided to attack the Union soldiers, considering them battered and almost beaten. Lee tried to gamble the victory of the Battle of Gettysburg by launching the attack from the Union line’s center the next day along the Cemetery Ridge where the attack was expected the least. But the Union cannons undermined the timetable of Lee, pounding the Rebels on Culp’s Hill. This battle ended

Same-Sex Families Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Same-Sex Families - Research Paper Example This would be an attempt to fill the gap in the body of literature concerning the same sex couples. The results of my research will be useful in many ways. Particularly, they would serve to satisfy the doubts, curiosity and misconceptions people generally have with respect to the same sex marriages. In my research, I will involve the homosexual couples that have been united by the civil union. Because I want to know the differences (if any) between marital satisfaction of homosexual and straight couples, the relationship between both types of couples will be studied with respect to certain factors, common to both. Particularly, the aim of my research is to find whether the struggles homosexual married couples go through, the hardship they face and the criticism they are conventionally offered intensifies their love and affection or has a negative influence on their relationship. It is expected that the more their relationship is criticized, the stronger their relationship becomes. Gay and lesbian couples are similar to straight couples in a number of ways. For example, the affinity, and hence the satisfaction level between partners in all sorts of couples gradually declines with the passage of time irrespective of the sexual orientation of individual partners. (Farr, Forssell, and Patterson, 2010, p. 200). The literature review about homosexual couples in 1991 suggested same satisfaction level in gay and lesbian couples as noticed in straight couples. (Whiteman, Diddel, and Hohengarten, 2005, p. 14). Review of existing body of literature suggests that many homosexual partners deal their relationship more wisely than heterosexual partners. Homosexuals tend to be more prudent in sustaining their marital relationship typically because they know, that it takes much less effort to break free of a homosexual bond than a heterosexual relationship. (Gottman and Levenson, 2003, p. 88).

The challenges in ageing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

The challenges in ageing - Essay Example Understanding of the nature of major challenges associated with the ageing population is becoming an increasingly critical aspect of modern health care system. A considerable body of evidence is now available to show that the process of aging is largely due to molecular damage caused by reactive oxygen species, electrophiles, and other reactive endobiotic and xenobiotic metabolites (McEwen et al. 2005). Ageing is associated with the degeneration of functional capacity in all parts of human body, and at all levels of organisation from molecules to complete organ systems. This process is normally referred to as 'senescence' and comprises genetic and external factors (Mera 1992). Quality of life of elderly patients depends more on ageing-related disease than solely on chronological characteristics. 'Natural' transformations in the status of the organism during the process of ageing, such as the changes in the immune, cardiovascular and endocrine systems (Martin, & Sheaff 2007), occur simultaneously with pathological processes associated, in their turn, with variety of age-related diseases, such as wear and tear of skin, muscles, and skeleton (Freemont, & Hoyland 2007), cardiovascular system (Greenwald 2007), etc. These two types of changes interact closely in various types of age-related diseases such as hearing loss, noise damage, skin damage, hypertension, increased body mass index, etc (Martin, & Sheaff 2007). At the cellular level the process of ageing is associated with chromosomal, nucleic acid, protein and other changes (Terman et al. 2007). The pathways involved in these changes have been revealed to possess common features with disease processes. This discovery is very essential for it enables the researchers to identify and describe some mechanisms that play the key role in the interaction between which natural and abnormal ageing-related changes. Specifically, the interactions between environment, nutrition, disease and the process of ageing have become the focal point of research intended to reveal the basic mechanisms of the pathogenesis of age-related disorders (Martin, & Sheaff 2007). Sensory impairments, especially those related to hearing and vision, often substantially limit elder adults' intellectual functioning and ability to interact with their environments (Baltes & Lindenberger, 1997). Many of the illnesses and chronic physical conditions that are common in late adulthood tend to have substantial impacts on particular aspects of cognition, as do many of the medications used to treat them. Accumulation of these factors may produce a noticeable decline that elder adults experience in intellectual functioning, as opposed to the normal process of growing old (APA, 2003). In addition to sensory integrity and physical health, psychological factors such as affective state, sense of control and self-efficacy, coupled with active use of information processing strategies and continued practice of existing mental skills may influence elder adults' level of cognitive performance (APA, 2003). Over the last two decades, the importance of professional psychological services has been increasingly

The Canons of Christianity Essay Example for Free

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

My Vacation Essay Example for Free

My Vacation Essay There is one magical place where my family vacations to most summers. It is quiet, relaxing, beautiful, magnificent, and inspiring. Located in Saranac Lake, in rural New York, this is where my family has some of the best times. We stay in a calm and serene cabin where my Aunt and Uncle live. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Before I can explain what I do during this vacation, I must explain the background and history of this special family gathering. My family is not the type the goes on expensive or classy vacations to the Caribbean. We prefer memorable vacations, whether it is in Florida, Colorado, Cape Cod, or Saranac Lake. The places we go do not matter, but more the events that take place during them. Once my mom’s side of the family had grown, and all my grandparents, aunts, and uncles, had their children, everyone decided it would be fun to have a family reunion of some sort. My Aunt’s cabin sounded like a fun place to meet every summer- and that’s where we have met ever since. Now lots of the kids have grown up, and even though they are older they still enjoy some of the things we did when we first came. Some activities include hiking, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and boating on the lake. Also, playing board games and watching movies when it’s rainy, having cookies down on the dock, or playing a good game of hide and seek in the woods. Vacations to the lake are like an escape from the outside world, and a chance to see nature and still have fun. Every summer is guaranteed to be a blast, in rain or shine. To conclude, my vacations to the lake will always remain memorable and special. I hope that one day I will be able to continue the tradition for my family. Through the years, I have always been sort of jealous of my friends who told about their extravagant vacations to paradise, but I have soon realized that I would never trade my experiences for any of theirs. Why? Because I have something that they will never have. I have a family that loves and cares for each other, and would do anything to make everyone happy. I have a lifetimes worth of memories from only a few days. Finally, I have joy.

News From Nowhere Analysis of William Morris

News From Nowhere Analysis of William Morris Introduction In this essay I will analyse how William Morris’s News from Nowhere and the nineteenth century ecological ideology will shape the vision of the world around humanity. How Morris wanted to design a world that was to him becoming gloomy and joyless, a world that is being separated by industrialist and capitalist systems who have turned everything of value into profit making, although he believes both industrialism and capitalism go hand in hand. My focus will be on how these ideologies are organised in utopian imaginative narration Utopia meaning an imaginary society, place or state considered to be perfect and ideal and could not exist anywhere. But on the other hand that leaves a question can it, society be improved? News from Nowhere exists with visions of the future and also seeks to defend and uphold the revolutionary function of such expectation and hope. It strikes out as a book that is a little different from today. William Morris was a man of many talents, an artist, poet, carpenter, manufacturer, activist, and a socialist during the late 19th century. Later in his life he became a graphic designer. He was born March of 1834 in Walthamstow, England into a wealthy family. He went to school at an early age, studied at Oxford and became interested in art and architecture. At a later part of his life he became interested in politics and textile designs Main body The book tells about beautiful scenery and good weather; †¦air just sharp enough to be refreshing†¦ (News from Nowhere, chapter 1) is an indication of climate changes which for decades now have been a challenge facing the planet today. The problem that comes from climate change has caused many unfriendly problems that the world is facing that have resulting into different problems such as deaths, diseases, and dryness from deserts, water shortages, etc. It is up to the leaders of the world to make necessary changes so as to save the future of the planet. William Morris had an idea of a perfect world and hopeful of what the future might bring, and one of the impressive characters of the ideal world is the freedom of every man and woman to be in control of his/her own destiny. A world that is free from oppression and full of opportunities. Morris more than most people, had set up himself with a good start in life as far as career wise. By his adulthood he had already accomplished some tremendous success, created his firm, developed and exploited his talents to the full, basically he had made himself wealthy and this brought more success to his later careers as an independent actor on the political and social scene as he wished. After he left school he never exposed himself to where someone could be telling him what to do or taking orders from people except on certain occasions he had encounter with the law. He was not a selfish person, as he was a privileged man; he wanted the same for every person. A society without statue or privilege is what Morris wanted (Harvey and Press, 1996) Morris claims that the society is full of evil and that capitalism has destroyed what is left of the society but with communism it can be revived (Geoghegan, 2008) Morris saw in medieval craft labour an anticipation of what free labour in communism will be like. During the medieval periods craftspeople did not experience the type of degradation that labours have been subjected to under capitalism; that is between intellectual and manual and intellectual labour, between great art and manufacture, and also between pleasure and work. Morris believes that it is possible for man to rejoice in his work, and not only the labours that can make one rejoice, the products represent the height of human achievement to date. He rejected mass production, but rather encouraged those to develop their own manual skills such as were necessary to, and enjoyable in the domestic environment. In 1876 Morris wrote a letter to the Daily News protesting against Conservative government’s policy in the Balkans who offered the Turks military support the Russian expansionism in order to protect their interests in the Near East. Morris’s letter gave voice to the feelings and reaction of the people’s demonstration against this move especially a significant section of British opinion, particularly the liberals who resented their government being in war against Turks killing and massacre of Bulgarians. Morris’s letter within a couple of weeks had brought him popularity, after a short while he was elected Treasurer of the Eastern Question Association. This association was formed to campaign and protest against anticipation for war (Morris, 2004) Violence in the streets across the globe today are not new, they can be associated with Morris’s thought about revolution. As we witness today that democracy is sweeping across some parts of the world like the Arab countries. Its citizens are now demonstrating for changes in their government and demanding accountability and transparency. An example is couple of years back; the changes of regimes among North African countries, Egypt, Algeria, and Libya are evident of changes that came about through revolution. In 1885 Morris wrote to Georgiana Burne-Jones that the early struggles of socialism are merely ‘the petty skirmish of outposts, the fight of a corporal’s guard’; he tells the James Frederick that now he has joined the socialists, he has become ‘a soldier of the cause’. At the same time, he affirms the possibility that actual violence may be necessary for political change (Hanson, 2013, p.165) News from Nowhere makes us to understand that Morris motivated a happier society through the satisfactions of creative work. As he says in his preface to the nature of Gothic, â€Å"the lesson which Ruskin here teaches us is that art is the expression of man’s pleasure in labour† (Morris, 2004) he went further to say changed conditions of labour would not only produce better art but happier individuals more capable of enjoying it. He was not opposed to machines as a matter of principle. A lot of people believe he opposes them. He supports labour saving devices where dullness was not concerned. He said that the use of machines will speed production thereby doing those hard labour and saving human extra time and strength. But he criticised the use of machine for increase of production so as to make profit for the capitalists. Morris became the treasurer of the largely working-class National League. He formed a good relation with working people who had been empowered by the 1832 Reform Bill; the middle classes who are the driving force behind the nation’s wealth and power. Because of its success the franchise was extended to wider sections of working class which attracted new voters. His aim was for workers to be in charge of their own lives. Workers should organise and have trade unions through which they will make their voice heard, issues like wages, temporary managers, number of hours, care and sick payment, the dismissed, and the unemployed and general working conditions. After the revolution of 1848, things changed for good as a result of extension of the suffrage of 1867, increasing prosperity and liberal reforms, the rise of the trade unions all contributed to the improvement of things. Morris believed in â€Å"Socialism from the Root Up† (Morris, 2004) fundamental change brought about by sudden popular revolution. He worked hard and treated his work for league as a full time job. During Morris’s time the league fought for free speech campaign so as to possess the right to protest and carry out public demonstrations. In this process he was arrested and fined on some occasions at the Trafalgar Square. Just as it is in the world today people are demonstrating against governments, companies, or institutions on policies that are against their democratic rights. Today in Ireland the people are demonstrating against the new water charge imposed by the government Change does not come by peaceful means, but through struggles. It was through this circumstance as the Socialist League drew nearer disintegration that prompted Morris to write News from Nowhere, a book that combines continuing trust in a Socialist future with a need to recharge the batteries of an imagination near exhaustion (Morris, 2004) Morris stressed not only the importance of political party but for the party to be a party of cadres, highly trained and qualified personnel of theoretical understanding, capable of assuming a leading role in any revolutionary activities towards the working class. He made it clear that the Socialist League should stand for revolutionary and scientific Socialism as against Hyndman’s SDF (Social Democratic Federation) for the fact that he believes Hyndman and SDF method will only achieve what he Morris called ‘mechanical revolution’, which is not real revolution. On the contrary Morris demanded ‘an educated movement’ (Researchgate.net) Morris believes that old order must not take charge put if they persist, then they must be removed by force, that is when necessary to use intelligent revolution which is for the good of the people. He wanted far above every other thing body of able high- minded working class, experienced, knowledgeable and skilled men who will teach and direct the general population during critical moments of any movement. He had a strong disapproval towards opportunism which will involve him in alliance with other parties at the long run will lead to electioneering and deprive the socialist movement some of its best leaders by sending them pretentious parliament, where they will become useless. Morris hammered on the importance of education especially in the party system so as to have a strong party which comprises education in economics, in organisation, and also administratively. He went further to say without an organised political party to provide a concrete and theoretical awareness and existence of socialism, any sudden revolt would bring it to scatter in various directions. On the issue of gender, Morris was aware of the apparent reaction of the solution regarding the woman question, just as he was conscious of the conservative and emotional implications of his desire to give new life to the handicraft. But he did not temper his belief that house work was the natural realm of the woman, they do it excellently well, and that a woman’s natural vocation was to provide help and comfort for her children and the head of the family. In the book there is an open rejection by Morris on movement of freedom with regards to central demand as the right to free the more intelligent part of their sex from the bearing of children. The domestic workers in the book are independent, athletic, active, and passionate, they are never worn down by their work, always good-natured and extremely beautiful. Perhaps is not surprising that Morris confessed that he had fallen in love with Ellen. Conclusion William Morris’s News from Nowhere is an interesting book with a vision. Despite the fact it was written in 1890, its contains arguments and debate that will inspire every generations to come; of all sectors both students, workers, politicians to look beyond the immediate system and virtualise future. Bibliography Agathocleous, T. (20011) Urban realism and the cosmopolitan imagination in the nineteenth century: Visible city, Invisible city, Cambridge University Press Cairns, J, Sears, A. (2012) the democratic imagination: Envisioning popular power in the twenty- first century, University of Toronto Press Corporal, M., Leeuwen, E. J. V. (2010) the literary utopias of cultural communities, 1790 – 1910 Rodopi Press Geoghegan, V. (2008) Utopianism and Marxism, Peter Lang Publishers Hanson, I. (2013) William Morris and the users of violence, 1856 – 1890, Anthem Press Harvey, C., Press, J. (1996) Art, enterprise, and ethics: The life and works of William Morris   Psychology Press Latham, D. (2007) writing on the image: Reading William Morris, University of Toronto Press Lvitas, R. (2010) the concept of Utopia, Peter Lang Publishers Morris, W. (2004) news from nowhere and the other writing, Penguin Publishing Peters, M. A., Freeman-Moir, D. J. (2006) Edutopias, Sense Publishers Plotz, J. (2008) portable property: Victorian culture on the move, Preston Publishers The ecological communitarianism of William Morris, /02c87, Researchgate.net

Best Man Speech Funny & Inspirational -- Marriage

I am going to keep this speech fairly short because of my throat, Pooja said that if I made fun of the groom too much she would cut it. Pooja, you look absolutely gorgeous†¦ radiant. I saw Salim swell with pride when he saw you today. He is truly a lucky man to have someone so attractive, intelligent, warm and caring. A wife who will be all he could ever wish for, and more. And my little brother†¦well well†¦ you’ve finally done it†¦ after 30 years of endless soulsearching†¦ you’ve finally taken the plunge†¦ and admitted that I am really the best man. Thank you for giving in. It’s been a long struggle†¦ and the best man has won. And now I hope you don’t mind if I kick you while you’re down†¦ I’ve been waiting for this chance for 30 years, and have been building up a portfolio of all the crude, rude and lewd things Salim got up to over the years. So.. we have a bald filmmaker and a short lawyer getting married†¦ a comedians dream†¦ but I promised salim that I wouldn’t mention the word short or bald in this speech†¦ plus, pooja is actually quite tall†¦ for a 7 year old†¦ Anyways†¦ Let me tell you a little story†¦ it begins about 5 years ago†¦ A day I’ll always remember†¦ when Priten, Pooja’s brother, came home to a party which my sister Tasreen held, with his two lifelong loves†¦ Pooja and a bottle of Jack Daniels. We all thought that Pooja was his girlfriend, but as the night progressed, we noticed Priten paying much more attention to Jack†¦ and Pooja was left unattended sitting on the balcony stairs†¦ Salim came onto the scene, baseball cap carefully placed to cover his bald spot, surveyed the terrain and pounced on the stair next to Pooj†¦ Pooja was startled†¦ ‘hi’ Salim said, ‘you have really nice feet’†¦ Pooja’s startled... ...ratulations on the termination of your isolation, and may I express my appreciation of your determination to end the desparation and frustration that has caused you so much consternation in giving you the inspiration to make this unification and bring an accumulation to the population. So as I end my toast to this occasion, and wrap up my salutation, I raise my glass to this combination, and bid good luck to the consummation! So cheers, and on with the celebration! Now, I’d like to think that Salim chose Sachin and me to be joint best men so that we could both be by his side on his wedding day. But I really think that he only picked us for the wedding photos. Me, so he'd look slimmer, and Sachin, so he'd look taller. You see what I mean in a moment†¦ Sachen has been Salims oldest friend, and is an honorary Keshavjee and has a few words to say†¦ over to you Sachin!

Sweeney Todd :: essays research papers

Sweeney Todd is by no means a conventional musical; it takes several forms of music and theater and artfully places them together. Sondheim very effectively transports the audience back to Victorian England for a mad waltz with murder, mayhem...and meat pies. He also utilizes his skill as a choral composer to write some truly fascinating ensemble pieces accompanied by a very intricate plot with many elements carefully layered.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are several important thematic elements in this carefully written commentary on our society, and Sondheim makes good use of his music to accent not only the melodramatic plot, but these themes as well. For example, the song â€Å"Kiss Me† becomes an anthem for Anthony and Johanna and a symbol of their true love....they loved when they did not even know each other’s names. Sweeney Todd may be a dark musical, but its construction lends well to light voices and an equally light orchestral style. Plot-wise, this show is rather light, the characters seem cartoonish and one-dimensional, especially Mrs. Lovett, Anthony, and Johanna, who appear to be little more than melodramatic character roles. Ironically, Mrs. Lovett, the absolute capitalist, is one of the show’s most complex characters. Mrs. Lovett is not merely some amoral witch out to make a fast dollar, she is a character driven by greed and love to keep Sweeney however she can.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In conclusion, the play gives an excellent example of captive innocence, and the loss of innocence that immediately follows. Sweeney is driven to murder, Mrs. Lovett bakes these people into pies, Johanna kills, Lucy is forced to become a Beggar and a whore, and nearly every major character experiences their own fall

Vietnam War vs. Great Society Essay -- Vietnam War Essays

Vietnam War vs. Great Society Anonymous: "[Johnson] had miscalculated: Even the richest and most powerful nation in the world could not do it all" (qtd. in Turbulent Years: The 60s 36). Lyndon Baines Johnson is a president torn to pieces by war. He glows in the passage of bills benefiting American society. He is someone who has suffered through an entire generation of rebellious teens. What impact did LBJ's foreign policies concerning Vietnam War have on American society? The Vietnam War really isn't a war. Congress never declared war and thus, it is constitutionally considered police action. The United States can have troops in an area for ninety days, but how ninety days became twelve long, bloody years is beyond my knowledge. The war actually started in 1959, but U.S. involvement did not start until 1961. We withdrew from Vietnam in 1973, and it raged on for another two years. This was Vietnam's civil war, where 58,000 Americans lost their lives and Vietnam was lost to the Communists. If it hadn't been for the French-Indochina War, America might not have been so deeply involved in Vietnam. The area of Indochina, present-day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, was taken away from France during the Second World War and afterwards, they tried to get it back. France lured the U.S. into paying 80% of the costs used to fight Ho Chi Minh and Communist North Vietnam by the end of the French-Indochina War. As author Gini Holland put it, "This [paying the costs] committed the United States financially, although not yet militarily, to the region" (qtd. in Holland 41). So, when Vietnam was into their civil war, the U.S. felt the need to help South Vietnam. In addition to fighting Communism, the American soldiers faced the very devoted and very martial Vietcong, the pro-Communist guerilla force of South Vietnam. Look what a little help to a friend can do to you. "It was in Southeast Asia that [Johnson] ran into his greatest difficulties" (qtd. in Encarta "Johnson, Lyndon Baines"). He finished John F. Kennedy's term starting in 1963 and completed another term, ending his presidency in 1969. As many of us are, he was reluctant to get fully involved in the war. After ordering air strikes against North Vietnam in retaliation for U.S. ships being attacked by torpedoes, he stated, "We will seek no wider war" (qtd. in Hargrove 69). Even though he did not want war, his ... ...ghtfully, "We move step-by-step- often painfully†¦-along the path toward American freedom" (Schuman 73). Bibliography: Califano, Joseph A., Jr. The Triumph and Tragedy of Lyndon Johnson. New York: Simon Schuster, 1991 Dallek, Robert. Flawed Giant. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998 Frazier, Thomas R., ed. Voices of America. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1985 Hargrove, Jim. Lyndon B. Johnson. Chicago: Children's Press, 1987 "History Channel." [Online] Available http://www.historychannel.com/, April 15, 2000 Holland, Gini. The 1960s. San Diego: Lucent Books, Inc., 1999 "Lyndon B. Johnson." [Online] Available http://www.whitehouse.gov/, April 20, 2000 Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 99. Computer Software. Microsoft Corporation, 1993-1998. Ver. 8.29.00.0912 Windows 98, CD Monk, Linda R., ed. Ordinary Americans. USA: Close Up Foundation, 1994 Rubel, David. Scholastic Encyclopedia of the Presidents. New York: Scholastic, Inc., 1997 Schuman, Michael A. Lyndon B. Johnson. Springfield: Enslow Publishers, Inc., 1998 The Annals of America: Vol. 18. Chicago: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc., 1976 Turbulent Years: The 60s. USA: Time Life Inc., 1998

Buddhism without Beliefs

It is a well-known fact that Buddhism religion is distinguished from all Asian religions due to its three innovative and original sifts: equal position of women; emergence of Buddhism as social transformation; replacement of monastery and building lay community â€Å"as the principal arena of Buddhist practice†. The book â€Å"Buddhism without Beliefs† by Stephen Batchelor describes the significance of three elements and their application to future development of the world. (Batchelor 1997)It is possible to suggest that the book is an intelligent effort to provide better understanding to the Buddhism religion and to make clear the attribute of â€Å"dharma practice†. Apparently, the book contains author’s personal reflections and suggestions how to apply Buddhism studies to contemporary era o skepticism. It is necessary to outline that the book contains three main parts called â€Å"Ground†, â€Å"Path†, â€Å"Fruition† and the last se ction devoted to culture and imagination. The author is rather persuasive, because he uses logical arguments, conclusions, facts and viewpoints to defend his position.Batchelor has managed to affect readers and to make them think about the issue. Therefore the book leads through abundant data presented to persuade readers that Buddhism is worth attention. Therefore, the apparent strength of the book is abundant data and evidence used to support the main idea. (Batchelor 1997) The first part of the book â€Å"Ground† involves theoretical framework of Buddhism religion and explains its core issues. The author begins with explaining differences between two entities – â€Å"dharma practice† and â€Å"religious Buddhism† – intertwined into the history of Buddhism theory.According to Batchelor those entities are closely related and thus are inseparable. Furthermore, they have to be preserved for discovering their contemporary significance. The first and the most significant entity for Batchelor is â€Å"dharma practice†, because it teaches and trains how to awaken and to feel freedom from â€Å"anguish†. The second entity â€Å"religious Buddhism† is a system of belief aims at ensuring social stability as well as providing religious consolation. (p. 16)Nevertheless, the author admits that world view and religious expression has little to do with core Buddha’s teachings, because they â€Å"pertain solely to the Asian cultural soil within which Buddhism took root†. Batchelor agrees that those entities have had significant purpose in ancient time, though they are hardly applicable to contemporary society. The author argues that if the dharma practice offers alternative approach to interpretation of core values and virtues, it has to be deprived of â€Å"its religious apparel and recast in a purely secular mode†.It would result in agnostic style of dharma practicing. (Batchelor 1997) Moreover, Batchelor believes that dharma practice would aim at social and personal freedom and liberation meaning that people have to escape from â€Å"suffering created by egocentric clinging†. According to Batchelor the positive moment of Buddhism is that the religion provides answers to great questions concerning place of humans in the â€Å"grand scheme of things†. The author seems to provide agnostic vision of the thinks stating that â€Å"the dharma is not something to believe in but something to do†.(p. 17) However, Buddha didn’t have answers to metaphysical questions of his day. The only known fact is that Buddha was teaching followers about sufferings and cessation. Thus the author makes a conclusion that Buddha’s teachings are therapeutic, existential and may be referred to liberating agnosticism. For example, Batchelor makes an attempt to escape from metaphysical questions of his day by arguing that Buddha â€Å"was merely adopting the symbols, m etaphors, and imagery of his world†. (p. 17)Nevertheless, Later Batchelor suggests that Buddha â€Å"accepted the ideas of rebirth and kamma†, though he considers them â€Å"odd that a practice concerned with anguish and the ending of anguish should be obliged to adopt ancient Indian metaphysical theories and thus accept as an article of faith that consciousness cannot be explained in terms of brain function†. (p. 37) However, Batchelor seems not to approve Buddha’s metaphysical theories, although he doesn’t completely reject the idea of reincarnation or rebirth.Instead the author thinks that honest approach has to be taken in understanding life after death, because existing knowledge isn’t enough to state anything. Buddha accepts the ideas of reincarnation and kamms indicating a â€Å"failure to summon forth the courage to risk a non-dogmatic and non-evasive stance on such crucial existential matters†. (p. 38) It is apparent that the author tends to use a variety of logical arguments to approve his interpretation of Dhamma. Batchelor’s arguments succeed in gaining cogency due to oversimplification, selective relevant citations and rationalization.For example the author discuses â€Å"four ennobling truths† and finds put that these truths aren’t â€Å"propositions to believe [but] challenges to act†. (p. 7) Nevertheless, such statement is hardly truthful, because the author fails to admit that â€Å"tasks imposed by the truths acquire their meaning from a specific context, namely, the quest for liberation from the vicious round of rebirths†. The dichotomy between â€Å"religious Buddhism† and â€Å"dharma practice† is hardly endorsable. The author calls to â€Å"recognize a spectrum of Buddhist practices, ranging from simple devotional and ethical observances to more advanced contemplative and philosophical ones†.Those observances are involved into faith and understanding, though they disappear when dharma practice is regarded on the basis of different suggestions. The author considers premises underling the traditional Buddhist practice as reincarnation and kamm, though he thinks they are only consolatory elements crept into the religion. (p. 18-19) The second part of the book is titled â€Å"Path† and aims at providing relevant sketches to agnostic conceptions based on the dharma practice. Furthermore, author provides clear and lively explanations of the issues displaying his creativity and literary gift.The part is divided into subsections devoted to awareness, overview of emptiness and development of sympathy and compassion. Apparent strength of the part is simple examples introduced in every subsection. Most original examples involve practicing awareness and mindfulness, showing essence of emptiness, challenging the findings and reflecting on common sufferings of friends, enemies and acquaintances. The second part includes also twelve links of dependent origination interpreted rather originally and illustrated by mistaken perception.(Batchelor 1997) Nevertheless, the conception of the path is absent in Batchelor’s interpretation, though it is considered the traditional foundation of Buddhist religion: â€Å"the Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels†. The author thinks that mentioning the path doesn’t have any sense in the frame pf agnostic conception, though omission of path seems rather significant. Furthermore, the author doesn’t mention either code of moral rules or the Five Precepts. However, Batchelor slightly talks about ethical framework and proposes integrity.Despite the fact he speaks about impressive insights of integrity, the issues is still questionable as it has neither sufficient basis for ethic nor exact guidelines. (p. 48-50) The third part of the book â€Å"Fruition† is an exploration of consequences of dharma practice and explanation why dharma pract ice is called â€Å"passionate agnosticism†, Batchelor starts with accounting meditative path. The author explains the process of meditation stating that it consists of â€Å"radical, relentless questioning of every aspect of experience†.Nevertheless, such beginning makes readers profoundly perplexed, though for author â€Å"this perplexed questioning is the central path itself†. (p. 98) It means that the path aims at finding no goals and answers. Such conception of dharma practice seems bizarre and strange. Further, the author returns to meditation stating that its goal to justify belief system and to approve using the raft of the dharma practice. According to author, Buddha stresses the insight meditation, because it is able to lead to thorough knowledge of true nature. Thus Batchelor shows once more â€Å"the bearing of one's starting point on one's destination†.It is apparent that the author firstly starts from agnostic concept and then turns to exces sive mystery and doubt. However, Batchelor believes that if a person trust dharma practice, he/she has to follow the right View and consequently to find Right Knowledge and Right Liberation. (p. 108) The last section is devoted to the concepts of culture and imagination. The author deals with correlations between contemporary world and Buddhist teachings and religion. In other words, Batchelor tries to find implications of Buddhism in modern world.The author asserts that throughout the Buddhism history, â€Å"Dhamma has rejuvenated itself by continually altering its forms to respond to changing social and cultural conditions†. However, such statement may be considered the act of author’s imagination, his gift of talented thinker and his creative vision of things. (p. 107) Batchelor has given new and fresh approach to Buddhist teachings. Some critics find Batchelor’s vision of Buddhism too simplistic, though it is difficult to agree with them. Batchelor seems to present his original point of view, his understanding and his perception of Buddhism.He succeeded in making viewers interested exactly by simple explanation of core Buddhist issues. Nevertheless, the author has failed to explain sufficiently the role played by orthodoxy in stimulating dharma practice. What is more important to mention is that Batchelor believes that Buddhism applied to contemporary world may rise the need to create meaning that dharma practice is able to stimulate creativity in followers. According to author, dharma practice is a â€Å"new culture of awakening that addresses the specific anguish of the contemporary world†.(p. 109) It is necessary to conclude that Batchelor has created a new vision of Buddhism culture of awakening by stressing the integrity of Buddhist tradition and their responsibility to the present and the future. Despite the critique the book is rally worth reading, because it provides better understanding, advantages and disadvantages of not only of Buddhism religion, but also of agnostic concept. References Batchelor, Stephen. (1997). Buddhism Without Beliefs: A Contemporary Guide to Awakening. New York: Revierhead Books.

Hills Like White Elephants Essay

In the story â€Å"Hills like White Elephants† the vague dialogue conveys an allusive tone, in order to be represented correctly the author puts more emphasis in the character’s interaction with the setting. The setting is at a stopping point before their final destination. The dialogue mainly transpires throughout between the Girl and the American. This story is based around a vague dialogue, but is filled with the observations of the setting in order to express the pressure, significance, and opinions upon the subject at hand. In order grasp these messages, the reader interprets through the vivid imagery that is depicted by the author.The style of writing conveys this picture with an intended amount of clarity to leave the rest up to the reader to elucidate. This clarification is necessary in order for the reader to truly grasp the decision at hand and the weight of it as well. A metaphorical aspect of the setting is the â€Å"Elephant in the Room [2]†. This im plies that there is a subject that no one truly wants to discuss, and is left there to fester within the subconscious of these two characters until they have finally reached their decision. Another extended metaphor throughout the story is â€Å"†¦Like White Elephants†.This symbol can be interpreted as a great gift given to a person, but it is also a heavy burden that most would not desire. At this time they are having the discussion on whether or not to have an â€Å"Operation†. There are four main aspects of the setting that reflect upon the tone. The first are the hills mentioned in the beginning of the story. The second is the isolation between the two characters within the train station, and this is mainly because of it’s opposition to the tone, The first part of the setting that is mentioned is the hills along the Ebro Valley that from their perspective has no shade or trees.The absence of shade represents the blatant manner of how the American goes a bout convincing the girl in this story. Over and over again he promises happiness if she agrees. The trees represent life she is considering having. The absence of shade also shows why there is an absence of trees. As the â€Å"sun† overwhelms the â€Å"trees† they start to wither away. For example, later in the story as another form of persuasion he says â€Å"I don’t want you to do it if you feel that way [1]† in order to coax her in to making the decision he wishes for without making it seem that he had any influence with it.This displays the American’s true intention to rid Jig and himself of the baby. The lack of shade may also symbolize the lack of thought the girl goes through for the American’s suggestions. For example, the girl does not speak Spanish and therefore relies on him in order to get her a drink, and after that she also asks him if a drink is good with water claiming that she couldn’t decide this on her own. Her dep endency on the American in these situations indicates how reliant she is on him. This is an example of why she is so incapable of making such heavy decision.The second significant aspect of the setting is the Train station. The statement â€Å"the station was between two lines of rails in the sun. [3]† this has two significant observations. The first is the fact that the station is between two lines. This means that the conversation and the two’s relationship is at a â€Å"Stop† or a crossroad. At this point they are to make an important decision about whether or not to keep the baby. In this story you’ll notice the dialogue of the girl sounds somewhat ambivalent due to the way her decision sways back and forth. This is a prime example of why.What she sees on that side ultimately depicts the choice she is about to make. For example; in the story the reader may notice that there are â€Å"no trees† along the hillside. Later in the story the American is still busy trying to convince and then she gets up and she walks to the other side of the station she notices fields of prospering vegetation full of life alongside a flowing river whose viscosity emphasizes the idea of moving forward. These enticing promises from the American paired with the barren valley are dwarfed by the cornucopia of life seen within the field on the other.The juxtaposition between the two sides represents the heaviness of the choice on whether to give life or take it. The second tone-related characteristic of this station was the drinking between the American and the girl. As the girl and the American sat, she asked him what they should drink the American suggested alcohol. The beer was a way of escaping the serious discussion the two were trying to avoid. The alcohol was a method of getting around the â€Å"Elephant in the Room† with such dry small talk as â€Å"The beer is nice and cool [4]† or â€Å"They look like white elephants†¦.. I`ve never seen one†¦no you wouldn’t have [5]†.The girl points out that this routine of â€Å"look at thing and try new drinks? [6]†has grown tiring. This is the first change in her mood that is noticed, but after this small inquiry she recedes into her submissive nature continues this throughout most of the story. The third aspect of the setting that expresses the allusive tone is the juxtaposition between the two sides of the valley. This is another example of the reader relying on the setting in order to understand the representation of the tone. One of the sides features long white hills that resemble white elephants and are without shade or any trees.White Elephants are a symbol of burden, which anyone would normally abhor from. This mainly represents the American’s view on how this pregnancy will affect the two of them and how they’ll live. He states â€Å"We`ll be fine afterwards [7]† and â€Å"That’s the only thing that bothers us. [8]† in order to convince her about the positive things that will come out of this operation. The girl later retracts the statement about the hills looking like white elephants but states â€Å"They’re lovely hills†¦.. They don’t really look like white elephants. I just meant the coloring through the trees. 9]†. This portrays a sudden change within the girl; from being very submissive to what the American suggests (Reason why she sees the hills without trees and lifeless) to questioning the reason for avoiding the true matters at hand (Reason she now sees flaws in his logic and starts form optimistic views about how the baby should not have an effect on how their relationship functions. ). The trees on this side of the station ultimately resemble the life she can hope for, but the other side of the station represents a promise of homogenous happiness.This side is showcases the joys of not having to worry about the â€Å"One thing that mak es unhappy†. The fields of grain and the river appeared to represent the progress that the American promised. While the girl stares into this auspicious land a cloud’s shadow is cast upon it. This shadow foretells the future that land that would prosper will have the shadow’s influence over, meaning the American will most likely take over her will and rid her of independent thought. Moreover there have already been examples of her relying on him for the simple decisions, and taking his desires as a primary concern instead of her own.The fourth aspect setting that reflects the allusive tone is the train. This part of the story conveys a sense of pressure to the story since it occurs within a time period of 40 minutes. Also since this in an unpopulated train station the sense of isolation also has an effect on the characters. This sense of isolation forces them to face the â€Å"Elephant in the Room† no matter how much they want and they must face it within the time frame. In order to avoid â€Å"talking with her† or communication between each other he speaks to her as if his attention was omewhere else. This explains why the American’s compelling reasoning is being heard over and over again. It’s mainly because he wants her to see his view and submit to his â€Å"Suggestion†. Once his suggestions fail he entices her with promises of affluence in the future by showing her the land and saying all this could be ours. The girl once again falls under the pressure of the time frame she has to make the choice and looking for relationship security, but after her acceptance of this the American perseveres with his insistence.In response the asks for silence or otherwise she’ll scream, this symbolizes the need for seclusion in order to steal away from the constant battering and pressure of another’s thoughts. The Woman then comes out with more alcohol in order to break the tension, also adds more pressu re by saying â€Å"The train comes in five minutes. [10]†. Instead of reiterating his last point he decides to take the heavy bags to the other side of the station, and when he comes back he decides to sit at the bar instead of the table with the Girl. He asks her if she felt better now and she replies with â€Å"I feel fine†¦.There’s nothing wrong with me. I feel fine. [11]† This tells us that she has resolved the issue by herself and is ready to continue with what she desires. In conclusion, we see that the different parts of the setting portray different methods of expressing their decision due to the lack of direct dialogue. Through things such as scenery like the hills; the change in how she sees them represent how her forms and has changed from when the story started. It has also been depicted through how the different sides of the train station juxtapose one another.On one side prosperity and promising futures are seen, but on the other side the deso late, dry, and lifeless hills promise nothing but a lack of progression. Another way the train station represents the tone is the change in what the girl sees alongside the hill as she abjures her previous statement and restates the hills no longer seem like white elephants but only appear that way through the trees. This change in viewpoint shows how she is starting to no longer lean on the opinion of the American and form one of her own.This retraction of her statement also means that she no longer sees this birth as the burden or the â€Å"Only thing that makes us unhappy† anymore. And lastly the inclusion of a timeframe increase the amount of weight that is felt within the decision making process. The train shows why the American is trying to be overly-persuasive in this conversation in order to convince her to go through with the operation. Overall, Ernest Hemingway expresses the majority of the decision through the characteristics of the setting and how the characters a re willing, unwilling, or unable to interact with one another.

Global Awareness on AIDS Essay

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by HIV, a virus that can be passed from person to person through sexual fluids blood and breast milk. Worldwide the majority of HIV infections are transmitted through sex between men and women, and half of all adults living with HIV are women. Certain groups of people have been particularly affected and these include injecting drug users, sex workers and men who have sex with men. Slave trade has been an ongoing business interaction between multiple countries during the last century and has allowed the HIV virus to be spread internationally. Although HIV and AIDS are found in all parts of the world, some areas are more afflicted than others. The worst affected region is sub-Saharan Africa, where in a few countries more than one in five adults is infected with HIV. The epidemic is spreading most rapidly in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where the number of people living with HIV increased by 250 percent between 2001 and 2010. Many Western countries, such as the UK, have increasing rates of HIV transmission through heterosexual sex. In America, where more than a million people are living with HIV, heterosexual sex accounts for one third of new diagnoses. (Averting HIV and AIDS, 2011) Although it is known how to prevent and treat HIV and AIDS, too few people have access to the necessary services. With access to prevention tools such as HIV education, condoms, clean needles, and programs to prevent mother-to-child transmission the epidemic is improving in some countries. (Center of Disease Control and Prevention, 2014) Political and cultural attitudes are significant regarding prevention: for example some authorities are opposed to condom promotion, while others refuse to support needle exchanges for injecting drug users. Many are reluctant to provide young people with adequate education about sex and sexual health. Another very serious issue is discrimination. People known to be living with HIV are often shunned or abused by community members, employers and even health workers. As well as causing much personal suffering, this sort of prejudice discourages people from seeking HIV testing, treatment and care, undermining efforts to prevent and treat HIV and AIDS. As recently as the 1970s, people were not aware of this deadly illness. Since then the global HIV/AIDS epidemic has become one of the greatest threats to human health and development. During this time research has been performed internationally regarding the science of HIV and AIDS, as  well as how to prevent and treat the disease. In 2011, an estimated16.8 billion dollars was spent on research, prevention and treatment of HIV and AIDS in the United States alone, and 26 billion dollars internationally. (Sidibe, 2012) There is still no cure for HIV but HIV treatment has improved enormously since the mid-1990s. HIV-positive people who take a combination of antiretroviral drugs can expect to recover their health and live for many years without developing AIDS, as long as they keep taking the drugs every day. References: Averting HIV and AIDS. (2011, June). Retrieved from avert.org. Center of Disease Control and Prevention. (2014, January 7). Retrieved from www.cdc.gov. Sidibe, M. (2012). UNAIDS Executive Director. UNAIDS, 6-12.

Work force Up-skilling

Organisations usually view its work force as their driving force. The work force is believed to be the determinant of how far the company will go in terms of achieving its objectives. Organisations usually formulate strategies aimed at upskilling this workforce. This is usually done through methods aimed at improving the skill possessed by its workers. Organisations usually formulate strategies, which are aimed at achieving their workforce level objectives (Argyris, 1976p. 34-56). Since the organisations are required to try and create a team that possess high skills the process of coming up with a workforce of higher skill need not be universally accepted. The companies are supposed to adopt a way of moving towards higher skill that fits its requirements (Terry, 1960p. 104-109). This method of creating a workforce of higher skill should be formulated the best way possible an organisation can manage considering its requirement in terms of organizational strategy (Torbert, W. 2004p. 41-42). Workforce structure. Work force in organisations is usually composed of two categories depending on the type of workers. These categories are: – (i) Skilled workers (ii) Unskilled workers Skilled workers refers to workers of organisations who are believed to possess qualities such as possession of a certain level of good education in their field of specialisation. The Skilled workers are also believed to have acquired experience in their fields of specialisation. Skilled workers are required to have other features that enable them to be termed as efficient in their duties. Examples of these features include good communication skills and also interpersonal skills which aid incase one has to work in a group. Skilled workers are also termed as having broad level of general knowledge which is a factor in efficiency in their duties. Examples of skilled workers include Mechanical engineers, doctors, management accountants, finance officers and also civil engineers. Unskilled workers are workers in organisations who do not need to have any educational (formal) background. These workers need not have any experience to get jobs in an organisation. Unskilled workers are believed to have no skill for the jobs they carry out for organisations. These are the workers in an organisation who are believed to be at the bottom under the consideration of the level of qualifications. Most of the employees who are unskilled in organisations include cleaners and also loaders in stores. According to statistical data in the UK the skilled workers usually get the task of seeking employment easy. This is because most of the employment vacancies available are skilled occupations. It has been found that out of every 1,000 skilled job seekers, 75% end up succeeding. The statistical data has also revealed that the organisations in the UK give better working conditions to the skilled employees. It has been found that this preference in terms of better working conditions to skilled workers is usually an attempt by the organisation to maintain skilled teams in their organisation. This is not the case with unskilled workers. These workers find it hard to get good working conditions in organisations (Bass, & Avolio1995p. 100-123). The reason deducted for this occurrence is the fact that unskilled workers are readily available and incase their turnover tends to be high, there is no actual loss to the organisation. Human resource management refers to the process of handling matters concerning work force in an organisation. Each organisation usually has a department overseeing the efficiency of its work force. The human resource management is done by application of various models such as the goal Management Model. This human resource management model emphasizes on the need for organisations to handle their human resource in a manner likely to lead to the goal achievement. In the even of workforce upskilling a company should create a team of higher skill through assessment of the company’s goals. The organisations should use strategies likely to incorporate the needs of the organisation in terms of employee level of skills. The organisation should apply a strategy based on the level of skills required in achieving given goals. Another example of these models is the Culture change Model this is a model in human resource management which emphasizes that organisation changes their culture (House, 2004p. 23-31), and therefore the employees / workers should be upskilled to match the changes. Kurt Levin developed this model. Open systems Model is another model, which emphasizes that the human resource in an organisation should be managed as per the open system concept. This concept views systems as units that exchange requirements. The model argues that in employee upskilling the organisations should be able to get new employees from outside but not just develop the existing workers (Lowman, 2002p. 54-61). This model gives an organization option of acquiring workers of higher skills. All the three models described above show that there is no generally accepted way of upskilling an organisation workforce. The models suggest that an organisation should adopt a movement, which will be in agreement with the events at the organisation. For example when the organisation is faced with a change in its organizational culture, Lewin’s human resource management model should be adopted. When an organisation finds out that it cannot get the level of skill in the current workforce the open system human resource management model should be adopted, or just develop the existing workers to the level required, a characteristic of the Path Goal leadership model. Organisations usually emphasise on employee development in the attempt to reach a higher skilled work force. Employee development refers to the process in which employees of an organisation are involved in training in the organisation. Employee development involves a programme whereby the employees participate in their own will, the employees schedule their learning hours, the content to be learned is usually extra of what the job training requires and the workers select the content to learn without the influence of the organisations. Most companies in the UK emphasize on employee development since it is believed to give higher skilled employee workforce. Some of the companies in the UK, which emphasize on employee development, include Siemens UK and also Roll Royce Cars. These companies give a given level of provision in terms of sponsorship for employee training in the employee. The personal development theory in employee development argues that workers should be in a position to enhance the programme of employee development. The workers are required to be willing and interested in developing as employees of a given organisation. The employee motivation theory argues that the organisations should put efforts in the process of employee development. The organisations efforts should be in the form of programmes likely to boost the morale of employees (Stacey, 1992p. 31-39). The Benziger theory also provides directions on the employee development programmes in an organisation. In the process of employee development the organisations can create programmes bearing in mind that workforce usually consist of skilled and unskilled workers. The organisations should create programmes likely to give formal education, experience, skills and also general knowledge to the unskilled workforce. This is likely going to improve the skill of employee team hence likelihood of a success towards organizational strategy. The organisations should create programmes which will enable the skilled workforce improve their efficiency and also make them acquire certain level of vital attributes such as confidence and self-initiative (Warneka, 2006p. 23-29). Employee development should be structured in a way likely to make the organizational strategy give desired results. The employee development should be done in a way likely to put all the levels of the work force at a higher level of skill (Burns, 1978p. 65-71). Organisations should not copy the programmes adopted by their competitors or other comparable organisations. Copying of employee development programmes would not help organisations in the process of up-skilling its workforce since it might not suit the organisation. The organisations should structure these programmes as per their workforce requirement bearing in mind that the best workforce is that which is at a higher level in terms of suitability to a specific organization. Conclusion. Organizations should try as much as possible to avoid the perception that, workforce up-skilling is standardised (Heifetz, 1994p. 12-19). Organizations should formulate organizational strategies aimed at effective teams’ suited to the needs of specific company. The above is only possible if the right human resource models are applied and practiced.