Promotional Strategies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Promotional Strategies - Essay Example Promotion of a product involves the achievement of two objectives, and that is to provide information of the product to the targeted market, and to effectively persuade the targeted market into purchasing the product. Advertising is extremely useful in reaching any message put to any targeted market, while its relative impact on persuading the targeted market into purchase is low. Yet, it does both, and this is true for any product and in any sector of industry making it the effective form of promotion for all products. The primary advantage of advertising is that it is the least expensive in terms of per individual cost and less time consuming in spreading consumer behavior oriented information on a product to any target market, when compared to personal selling. Such messages can be got across to the targeted markets through different forms of media and the Internet quickly, and at much lower costs than what it would take a team of sales representatives to achieve. The advent of the Internet has provided a means for advertisement at even lower costs than conventional advertisements through print and television media (1). Words and images used in advertisements can trigger consumer positive reactions in wide target markets, even spread across the globe at a relatively low cost, and in very quick time (2). The disadvantage of advertising lies in the impact that it can create in the target market. Therefore deliberate planning must go into the creation of an advertisement, with extreme care being taken in the words and images used. An advertisement is like an arrow. Once it is let loose it cannot be called back, and if the message it carries creates negative feelings of either the product or the business enterprise involved in it the consequences will be disastrous. This is particularly true when products are marketed globally, and advertisements used for their promotion. Care has to be taken see

Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 6

Culture - Essay Example addition, cultures can be learnt through interactions that people have, and this is because as individuals interact, they get to understand one another’s perception of things (Rosenblatt 105). Culture has a great influence on one’s communication since it shapes what people think and say all the time. Consequently, culture influences how people think and operate within business or in their professional environments. Rosenblatt (109) explains that in order to understand the impact of culture in business, one has to study the following cultural frameworks: contextual culture and the values attached to culture. Contextual culture refers to the nonverbal signs that are portrayed by an individual during communication. They include things such as gestures and facial expressions. Some cultures attach more value to these cues than to what an individual actually says. They help in interpreting the inner unexpressed feelings of a person, and they can be really helpful during interviews (Rosenblatt 110). High-contextual cultures have a high regard for non-verbal signs, while low-contextual cultures have a high regard for the verbal words that are said by an individual. Rosenblatt (112) asserts that in a communication, one has to study the message being put across closely in order to determine whether the message is direct or indirect. A direct message means that a person means exactly what she/he says, while indirect messages require a deeper understanding. Direct messages are mostly used in high-contextual cultures whereas indirect messages are mostly used in low-contextual cultures. Time orientation is equally important in communication since it shows the importance attached to time in different cultures. Time orientation has two dimensions: polychromic which emphasizes human relations and monochromic which on the other hand stresses on schedules and appointments (Rosenblatt 114). Finally, conflict communication is a key focus in high-context cultures because in these

Parties Involved In Communication Process

Parties Involved In Communication Process In nowadays marketing, advertising is communication tool for majority of businesses. It is important that companies should communicate effectively and properly to their customers either through Ad, s or other sources. In advertising campaign, we will discuss the communication model used in advertising. The major parties which are involved in communication channel of advertising are; Client/vendor/sponsor/advertisers Advertising agency Media e.g. electronic, print, social etc Audience Advertisers: Clients are those people, companies or organizations that do advertising of their new product, services in order to get attention of their target market. For this purpose, advertisers contacts and hire advertising agencies which do advertising for organization to promote their products. Advertising agencies: Advertising agency is consisted of people who do advertising for companies. Advertising agencies is consisted of different departments which do creative work, media selection, brochure making and many more works. Media: After making an Ad, then media is selected, types of media are; Electronic media e.g. TV Print media e.g. Newspaper, magazines Social media e.g. face book, twitter Media plays an important role because the message is conveyed to target customers by using media because media has access to peoples. Role of advertising agency: Advertising agency plays an important role because advertising agency makes an effective and innovative advertisement which attracts customers and customers gets that product. Advertising agency is one which makes awareness about companys product through advertisements. Advertising agency and client relationship is of great importance because client hire advertising agency for making an Ad. so advertising agency tries to make innovative and creative Ad to attract customers. Advertising agency also help company to choose media for the advertisement. Sender: The party sending the message to the customers is called sender. Sender is also called communicator. The Ad agency is sender. Encoding: The party which put the thoughts into symbolic form. Message: The idea or thoughts which the sender transmits to the receiver. Media: The communication channels thought which the Message moves from sender to receiver. Receiver: The party receiving the message sended by sender. This party is also called audience. Responses: The set of reactions that the receiver has after being exposed to the message. Actually after seeing the Ad, audience comments. Feedback. The part of the receivers response that the receiver communicates back to the sender. (http://www.managerialmarketing.com/index.php?option=com_contenttask=viewid=26Itemid=45) Noise Unplanned static or distortion during the communication process, resulting in the receivers receiving a different message than the sender sent. Sometimes the message which sender wants to communicate to the receiver does not communicate properly to the receiver because of wrong media selection, wrong target market etc. Communication Industry of Pakistan If we look at the typical Pakistani Ads so we will find all these tools in some Ads because in majority of Pakistani Ads. We can find easily noise and lack of feedback. In most of Ads we will find noise and lack of feedback because if we see, many people just see Ads for actors or just time pass. Sometimes audience get bore because of again and again showing of similar Ads. But In 20th century, the Ads quality has changed and we have seen improvement. If we consider the Ads of Telecom sectors, so we can say that everything of the model which was discussed previously are present there with target market and good customers response and feedback. P-2: Identify and discuss current trends in advertising and evaluate its impacts Current Trends Micro-Marketing: A marketing strategy in which advertising efforts are focused on a small group of highly-targeted consumers. Micromarketing requires a company to narrowly define a particular audience by a particular characteristic, such as ZIP code or job title, and tailor campaigns for that particular segment. It can be a more expensive technique due to customization and lack of an economy of scale. Micromarketing grew to prominence in the 1990s, as personal computers allowed easier segmentation and dissemination of information to customers. E-commerce websites are able to track the type of products that a consumer views or purchases, which allows the website to suggest related products. Media Fragmentation: In Pakistan Media fragmentation is happening from 2000 onwards. It includes Radio Stations, Television, Internet, Newspapers, and Mobile Phones. When worldwide broadcast I.e. TV cable in some countries was the only way of transmitting video signals over big geographic areas, the result was that there were massive audiences for a small number of channels. The adding up of satellite TV, and a raise in the number of cable channels, means that audiences are now divided between more operators. This is called fragmentation of the media. Sales Promotion: Sales promotion is any activity that offers incentives for a limited time period induce a desired response, such as trial or purchase, from those who are targeted. Sales promotion is frequently misinterpreted and thought to mean literally anything is done to promote sales. Brand Proliferation: Brand Proliferation is important change in the branding environment is the proliferation of new brands and products, in part spurred by the rise in line and brand extensions. As a result, a brand name may now be identified with a number of different products of varying degrees of similarity. Current trends in Pakistani Ads In Pakistan, currently we are using very less amount of electronic billboards. But we hope that in near future these electronic billboard will be more in work than simple billboards. Internet growth is increasing very quickly all over the world and now Pakistani people are also getting familiar with the Internet in their normal routine life. Thus, this is the reason that most of the companies are advertising on the Internet through pop up windows advertising, advertising on both sides of the window, Google advertising etc, with the purpose that many people can watch their advertisements every where on their computers. The cost of Electronic Billboard are cheaper than the simple billboards as on electronic billboards different advertisements will be run one by one, so the overall cost will be less. In European countries, electronic billboard are very common while in Pakistan, these electronic billboards are not the ordinary way of advertising. In Pakistan, still many companies rely on TV advertisements, as Television advertisements are still valuable way of advertising. P-3: Discuss the models of advertising and its impacts on customer behavior AIDA MODEL Attention: The customers attention is got by the saving which is a large amount. Interest: Then the sentence mazay ki offer creates interest of the customers and their emotions are triggered. They feel that the offer is a good one because of the inflation now a day. Desire: The benefit the customers receive is that on every packing of the product they can save if they go for large pack they will have more saving which creates a desire to save more. Action: At the bottom left of the ad it is written that the offer is for some short time which gives enough motivation to the customers to go for it. MODEL 2 Awareness: The awareness I created that we have new offer for our customers. Knowledge: The knowledge is shared with the customers that the new offer which is named as mazy ki offer is on every pack and it is for some short span of time. Liking and preference: The ad creates liking because of the saving which is of large amount on such product. Conviction and purchase: The image of the product is good in the mind of customers and they are giving such offer so the purchase will be increase. AIDA model Attention: Warid bol anmol the sentence is enough to grab the attention because he will think there will be a good offer on calling Interest: The interest is created by giving the customers relaxation from activation and there are no conditions on the offer. Desire: In my opinion the add fails to make the customers desire to go for the offer because no info is given about how much balance will they receive. Action: Giving offer that the balance will be given at once motivating the customers to go for that offer

In this part of the essay I will be looking at two recruiting poems. :: English Literature

In this part of the essay I will be looking at two recruiting poems. Harold Begbie's Fall in poem first was released in the Daily Chronical on the 31st August 1914. The Changing attitudes to world war 1 Harold Begbie's In this part of the essay I will be looking at two recruiting poems. Harold Begbie's 'Fall in' poem first was released in the 'Daily Chronical' on the 31st August 1914. It was one of the most popular poems of its time they even set it to music and sung it in music halls; posters and badgers related to the poem were produced. Fall In In the first line of this poem the writer immediately starts with emotional black mail he writes then if you don't fall in then you will be looked down on by girls, children, mates and neighbors. I think he portrays this the best here "What will you lack, sonny, what will you lack When the girls line up the street, Shouting their love to the lads come back" When the poem was written people thought that the whole point of life was to grow up and get married and have a family. So these quotes were very important in the recruiting poetry. He also writes about how embarrassed you would be that you didn't go and help your country win the war. He does this really well here "Will you send a strangled cheer to the sky And grin till your cheeks are red?" Recruiting poems were very successful they could be sung with music. They were very persuasive and many men did sign up to go to war. As the war carried on and the injured started to come back the poems of the reality of war started to appear. Who's for the game Jessie Pope had never been to the front line and didn't really know what it was like to fight. I will start with 'Who's for the Game'. In this poem Jessie Pope makes war out to be a game she shows this best in this part of the poem "Who's for the game, the biggest game that's played," also when this poem was written rugby was quite popular so when she writes "Who'll grip and tackle the job unafraid?" it may have made the people think that it was no worse then being in a rugby game. Throughout the poem she uses a extended metaphor she always compares war to something else and avoids writing about suffering and death. Jessie Pope also makes out that if you don't join up then you will have to sit back and watch the 'game' go past I think she shows this

The Moral Component of Rerum Novarum

1. What did Leo say about the poor people? The present age has handed over the working poor to inhumane employers and greedy competitors. (a. 6) He saw the working poor as needy and helpless, (a. 66) And they are insufficiently protected against injustices and violence. (a. 32) 2. What did he want the working poor to understand? He wanted the working poor to understand that the lowest in society cannot be made equal with the highest and that poverty is no disgrace. (a. 37) To suffer and endure is human. (a. 27) The working poor are told not to injure the property or person of their employers and not to forcibly the property of others. (a. 55) 3. What was the moral component of Leo's message? The message to the working poor seems to be aimed at calming and consoling the poor, encouraging them to accept their position in society without rancor and without harm to others. Leo sought to enlist the aid of the working poor in preserving good order. 4. What did Leo say to those who work with the poor? Leo XIII declared that the working poor must be cared for. Employers have clear moral obligations: workers are not to be treated as slaves; the dignity of your workers' human personality must be respected; do not use people as things for gain; do not oppress the needy or the wretched for your own profit. The approach to employers is on a high moral plane, but it is also very practical: you need your poor worker, so work with him harmoniously. It is immoral to treat workers unjustly, and it is also not in the best interest of ownership and management. 5. What was the message to the employers? Leo warns the employers against the pitfalls of being wealthy; pointing out that wealth does not end sorrow and that it is a hindrance to eternal happiness. In view of eternity, what counts is not how much we have but how we use what we have, and we will have to account to God for our use of wealth 6. What did the Pope say to the wealthy? The wealthy are told that their goods are for their perfection and the benefit of others, and they are encouraged to share their goods when they see others in need: when the need is extreme, the demand is of justice: otherwise, the demand is of charity. 7. What was R.N's teachings of unions and strikes? The encyclical comes down strongly in favour of unions, stating that their increase is to be desired. (a. 69) The immediate object of unions is the private advantage of those associated, so that workers are to use their unions to secure increase in goods of body, soul and prosperity. (a. 71) The principal goal of unions is moral and religious perfection. (a. 77) The message about preserving good order is clear and unmistakable, but so is the message about standing up for rights. Leo XIII wanted the working poor to protect their interests, to make demands, to press their claims, and the principal means for doing this was the formation of unions. 8. What did Leo say about working conditions? Wages should never be less than enough to support a worker who is thrifty and upright. (a. 63) Work should not be so long that it dulls the spirit or that the body sinks from exhaustion. (a. 59) The factors in the establishment of hours are listed as: the nature of the work; the circumstances of time and place; the physical condition of the workers. (a. 59) 9. What was his stand on private ownership and property? Private ownership must be preserved inviolate. (a. 23) Must be regarded as sacred. (a. 65) It is wrong for ownership to be limited to a small number of people, and private property must be spread among the largest number of population. (a. 65) And a more equitable division of goods. (a. 66) 10. How did Leo see the role of government? The purpose of government is to cause public and individual well-being. (a. 48) The government must protect the community and it's constituent parts. (a. 52) Protect equitably each and every class of citizens. (a. 49) Give special consideration to the weak and poor. (a. 54) This special care should include the working poor. (a. 54) Improve the condition of workers. (a. 48) Safeguard the well-being and interests of workers. (a. 49) Protection of the goods of the worker's soul. (a. 57) The government's intervention in matters of wages, hours, and working conditions should be avoided. (a. 64) The government does not have the authority to forbid unions. (a. 72) It can oppose, dissolve and prevent unions when their objective is at variance with good morals, justice, or to it that there are no strikes. (a. 56) It should seek to remove the causes of strikes. (a. 56) Government must permit freedom of action to individuals and families. (a. 52) Government should give public aid to families in extreme difficulty. (a. 21) Â · Briefly summarise the popes intention and purpose for the Rerum Novarum. The Popes intention was his conviction that the present ages has handed over the working poor to inhumane employers and greedy competitors. He wanted to help the working poor by setting these rules. These rules help people to know their roles and obligations when dealing with work.

Handlin vs. McNeill Essay

Although events in history occurred over a long span of time and development, history first became an academic subject a little more than 100 years ago (McNeill 12). Since then, a plethora of controversies appeared regarding how historians, scholars, and intellectuals should examine and analyze history. Among the initial methods of studying history was the scientific research method, or scientific source criticism, which fundamentally extracts valid, legitimate facts from a diverse range of historical sources. Throughout time, however, the facts derived from this method of historical study gradually altered, leading to a new method of historical study: using facts and combining them with opinions and goals to constitute personal interpretations. As Oscar Handlin zealously asserts, historians and scholars should provide a strict examination of history based on a chronological study of known and verifiable facts as opposed to using verifiable facts as the basis for their own interpretation, influenced by their own group, experiences, beliefs, and personal motives. Through implementing a strict examination of history, historians can successfully detect and eradicate bias in their writings, allow the government as well as individuals to gain an insight into the past in order to secure and progress the future, and grasp the magnitude of truth. First, because strict examination of history based on a chronology and conclusive evidence can aid in discerning bias from genuine fact, historians should utilize the scientific method of research. Although Oscar Handlin admits that historians are never â€Å"totally free of bias† (7), he does claim that removing facts from interpretations eliminates bias, opinionated statements, and fiction from history, which is supposedly the chief goal and use of history (Handlin 5). On the contrary, when scholars employ William McNeill’s method of investigating history through interpretation, biased and one-sided analyses emerge, and, therefore, scholars may elasticize actual truth to suit their purpose. Historians who use interpretation to depict history â€Å"are likely to select facts to show that we-whoever ‘we’ may be-conform to our cherished principles† (McNeill 16). Consequently, a fusion between fact and bias results, distorting the truth and leading to ignorance. Take, for instance, the example of Christopher Columbus. When examined through strict examination based on chronology and evidence,  historians determine truths including the fact that Columbus’s voyages increased Europe’s rate of expedition to the Americas and the fact that Columbus contributed to the horrifying genocide of Native Americans. These derived facts provide insight into two perspectives of Columbus, and so, it diminishes the threats of bias. However, when explored through interpretations to suit purpose or please the audience, historians exaggerate Columbus’s prominence by omitting the negative perspective mentioned above and using overarching descriptions, verifying the detriments of bias. Essentially, the scientific method of research assists historians in limiting the bias and opinion used in their writing to produce exact facts that do not serve to please the audience. In conclusion, when historians adhere to a specific study of history founded on chronology and corroborative facts, they can locate truth amidst clouds of speculation, myth, opinion, and bias, and they can use this truth to advance the human race. Rummaging through the treasure chest of historical sources and only selecting the jewels of absolute truth can facilitate the process of abolishing partiality and attaining objectivity and allow humans to use the past as a tool for enhancing the future. Handlin aggressively proclaims, â€Å"Truth is absolute; it is as absolute as the world is real† (5). If historians truly possess profound feelings and support for the success of humanity, it is crucial that they acknowledge Handlin’s statement. If McNeill’s views are adopted and excessively used, however, absolute truth and its advantageous properties may be lost forever, masked by interpretations involving a blend of fact, fiction, and ideology. By working in accordance and using the scientific method of research, humans can conquer subjective interpretations and win the war against â€Å"faction-a combination of fact and fiction† (Handlin 8).

Quotes for Saying Goodbye

Quotes for Saying Goodbye Moving on sometimes becomes inevitable. Whether it is to pursue a new job opportunity, go to school, or care for a loved one, people often relocate. When you move away, it can be challenging to leave your old life behind and say goodbye to friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues. Finding the words to express how you feel can be even harder. Saying goodbye becomes a little easier with the help of quotes from famous writers, artists, and entertainers. You can borrow some of their tender words and use them in your saying goodbye messages, cards, and presents. The words will reverberate in the hearts of your loved ones. J.M. Barrie Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting. Alfred Tennyson Gone- flitted away,Taken the stars from the night and the sunFrom the day!Gone, and a cloud in my heart. Ernie Harwell Its time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and Id much rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure. Trey Parker Saying goodbye doesnt mean anything. Its the time we spent together that matters, not how we left it. Tom Petty You and I will meet again, When were least expecting it, One day in some far-off place, I will recognize your face, I wont say goodbye my friend, For you and I will meet again. Genevieve Gorder And the relationships that happen become so intense, deep, involved, and complex and really hard to say goodbye to. The hardest part of the show is saying goodbye when its all done. It really breaks you. William Shakespeare Parting is such sweet sorrow that I shall say goodnight till it be morrow. Ann M. Martin I wonder how you say goodbye to someone forever? Angela Ruggiero It feels right. But its emotional. Saying goodbye to anything youve done that long is hard. Robert Southey No distance of place or lapse of time can lessen the friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each others worth. Richard Bach Can miles truly separate you from friends? If you want to be with someone you love, arent you already there? Victor Hugo Promise to give me a kiss on my brow when I am dead. I shall feel it. George Eliot Only in the agony of parting do we look into the depths of love. Kay Knudsen Love is missing someone whenever youre apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because youre close in heart. Nicholas Sparks The reason it hurts so much to separate is because our souls are connected. Dr. Seuss Remember me and smile, for its better to forget than to remember me and cry. Helen Rowland A man never knows how to say goodbye; a woman never knows when to say it. Henry David Thoreau Nothing makes the earth seem so spacious as to have friends at a distance; they make the latitudes and longitudes. Meredith Willson Where is the good in goodbye? R.M. Grenon Goodbye, goodbye, I hate the word. Solitude has long since turned brown and withered, sitting bitter in my mouth and heavy in my veins. Jarod Kintz Goodbyes, they often come in waves. Cassandra Clare You endure what is unbearable, and you bear it. That is all. A.A. Milne How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. Charles Dickens The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again. Paulo Coelho If you are brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. Charlie Brown Goodbye always makes my throat hurt. William Cowper Absence from whom we love is worse than death, and frustrates hope severer than despair. Khalil Gibran Ever has it been that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation. Yann Martel It’s important in life to conclude things properly. Only then can you let go. Otherwise you are left with words you should have said but never did, and your heart is heavy with remorse. Alan Alda The best things said come last. People will talk for hours saying nothing much and then linger at the door with words that come with a rush from the heart. John Gay We only part to meet again. Mahatma Gandhi There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart. Helen Keller So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good. Rumi Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation. Irish Blessing May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. Claudia Adrienne Grandi If I had a single flower for every time I think of you, I could walk forever in my garden.

International trade in Nigeria

International trade in Nigeria Introduction Globalization refers to â€Å"the growing interdependence of countries resulting from the increasing integration of trade, finance, people, and ideas in one global marketplace† (Bigman 2002, p. 7).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on International trade in Nigeria specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper examines the effect of globalization on Nigeria’s participation in international trade. In particular, it will focus on how trade liberalization, protectionism, BWIs, and MNEs have influenced Nigeria’s imports and exports. The paper will argue that globalization has had more negative than positive effects on international trade in Nigeria. Impact of Global Governance Agencies The World Trade Organization (WTO) is one of the agencies that regulate international trade. WTO’s most-favored-nation policy aims at reducing discrimination among trading partners in the international mar ket (Muhammad 2007, pp. 173-182). Similarly, its national treatment policy encourages countries to treat locally produced goods and imports equally (WTO 2013). Nonetheless, these policies do not always benefit developing countries because they are often manipulated to favor developed countries (Action Aid 2004). Consequently, the WTO provides special considerations to some developing countries to enable them to improve their competitiveness (Raghavan 2013). These include â€Å"longer time to implement agreements, support to build infrastructure, and measures to increase trading opportunities† (Frieden Lake 2000, p. 2110. For instance, the Cotonou Agreement that was adopted in 2003 allowed Nigeria to export its commodities to the EU without paying any tariff for five years (Michael 2005, pp. 1-200). The resulting increase in exportation enabled Nigeria to maintain an average GDP growth rate of 6.82% in the last seven years. The structural adjustment programs introduced by the World Bank in Nigeria’s agricultural sector have partly contributed to the reduction in production in the industry. For instance, the removal of subsidies to farmers has increased the cost of production in Nigeria (Dayo, Nkonya and Pender 2009, pp. 1-48). By contrast, the WTO has failed to eliminate or even reduce the subsidies paid to farmers in developed countries (Walker 2011). These subsidies lower the cost of production in the agricultural sectors of developed countries (UNDP 2005). As a result, developed countries overproduce agricultural commodities such as rice, which they sell at low prices in overseas markets. This reduces the demand for Nigeria’s agricultural commodities such as cotton, which are relatively expensive due to high production costs (CID Harvard University 2013).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Liberalization of exchange rate has led to a systematic reduction of the value of Nigeria’s currency against the dollar. This has led to increased prices of imported machines that Nigerian farmers and industrialists need in order to add value to their products. In this regard, the BWIs should be reformed so that they can benefit developing countries such as Nigeria. In particular, the IMF and the World Bank should control volatility of exchange rates in international markets (Nayyar 2001, pp. 1-2). A stable exchange rate will enable Nigeria to import machinery at competitive prices in order to increase production in its agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Access to Foreign Markets and Barriers to Free Trade In 1970s, Nigeria focused on implementing protectionist policies in order to protect its nascent industries and to improve its balance of payment. This included a general ban on the importation of non-essential goods, high import tariffs, and import quotas (Dappa Otuya 2012, pp. 23-45). However, sim ilar trade barriers imposed on Nigeria by Britain limited Nigeria’s ability to access several European markets (Dappa Otuya 2012, pp. 23-45). Nonetheless, Nigeria had a trade surplus with most western countries due to the increase in its oil exports. Nigeria’s oil exports increased because most western countries had reduced their import duties on imported crude oil (Akinlo 2012, pp. 165-174). Nigeria began to liberalize its economy in 1986 by removing tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade. During the liberalization period, Nigeria’s agricultural exports such as cocoa and palm kernel grew by between 20 and 30 percent (Ogwumike Olukayode, pp. 89-95). This is because the depreciation of Nigeria’s currency after the adoption of a flexible exchange rate improved the competitiveness of its commodities in overseas market. Additionally, the country’s GDP increased from -2 percent in 1985 (before trade liberalization) to 5.5 percent during the SAP perio d (1986-1993). The increase in economic growth was attributed to the raise in Nigeria’s agricultural exports to Europe and Asian countries. Moreover, Nigeria had a comparative advantage in oil production in 1980s and early 1990s (Miller 2008, p. 71). In this regard, trade liberalization enabled the country to export its oil to developed countries such as the USA at a more competitive price. However, the improvement in international trade in Nigeria was just a temporary occurrence. In 1990s, Nigeria lacked the technology that it needed in order to add value to its agricultural products and to reduce the costs of its exports (Akinbobola 2001, p. 12). Consequently, its commodities could not compete with those from Asian countries such as India. Additionally, importation of cheap agricultural products such as rice increased tremendously.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on International trade in Nigeria specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More During the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis, most Asian countries banned textile imports from Nigeria, thereby reducing the country’s cotton production by nearly 40% (Dappa Otuya 2012, pp. 23-45). The decline in production in the cotton sector led to increased poverty and unemployment in the country. Nigeria’s earnings from agricultural exports have been declining steadily over the years due to high competition in overseas markets. Though exports for some crops such as cocoa have increased since 1990, their earnings have reduced significantly. This is because major export markets such as the European Union have consistently set high import duties (IMF 2001). Following the discovery of oil in countries such as Mexico and fluctuations in international oil prices, Nigeria lost its comparative advantage in oil production. Moreover, persistent decline in oil prices has significantly reduced the country’s earnings from oil exports. Consequently, N igeria’s balance of payment has been declining steadily since 1990. Additionally, unemployment rate has increased considerably, thereby forcing its citizens to search for jobs in European and Asian countries. In this regard, an international economic council should be established to oversee globalization (Nayyar 2001, pp. 1-2). In particular, the council should focus on removing tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade, as well as, providing financial and technical assistance to developing countries such as Nigeria to improve their competitiveness in production. Impact of Bilateral and Regional Agreements on International Trade Bilateral and regional agreements improve the export positions of their member countries by providing a large market for their products. The agreements usually promote free movement of goods through removal or reduction of import taxes. Additionally, they promote free movement of persons through removal of migration permits (Phillips Weaver 2011, p. 67 ). It is against this backdrop that Nigeria joined ECOWAS in 1975. ECOWAS is an economic bloc that consists of 15 West African countries. Joining ECOWAS has enabled Nigeria to increase its export of raw materials such as rubber. This is because such products are subject to a low import duty of only 5 percent (ECOWAS Commission 2010). However, final consumption goods are subject to a 20 percent import duty in the region. This has limited Nigeria’s ability to export its final goods to most ECOWAS member countries. Bilateral and regional trade agreements usually tend to undermine the goals of multilateral agreements. This is because some of their principles are not consistent with those of multilateral agreements (Reuvid Sherlock 2011, p. 324). For example, the tariffs proposed in a particular regional trade bloc can be different from those proposed by GATT.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Moreover, interest groups usually develop within bilateral and regional trade agreements, thereby discouraging their members from conforming to multilateral agreements (Reuvid Sherlock 2011, p. 325). In Nigeria, the revision of the common external tariff for the ECOWAS trading bloc led to the adoption of special taxes, which were as high as 50 percent to protect the members from extreme competition from other trading blocs (ECOWAS Commission 2010). Nonetheless, the high taxes undermined Nigeria’s commitment to ensure free trade as required by the WTO. The high tax increased the prices of imported consumer goods in Nigeria, thereby lowering consumption of imports. Countries that enter bilateral agreements should align their principles to those of the WTO in order to avoid breaching multilateral trade agreements (Reuvid Sherlock 2011, p. 327). Powerful Multinational Enterprises Multinational enterprises promote international trade and export positions of developing countries through technological transfers and provision of ready market for their raw materials (Oghenerobaro Robaro 2008, pp. 12-16). MNEs such as Shell dominate the exploration and distribution of oil in Nigeria. These companies introduced advanced technologies for drilling oil, thereby increasing Nigeria’s oil exports (Akinlo 2012, pp. 165-174). Multinational enterprises in Nigeria’s oil industry have also contributed to environmental degradation through oil spillage. Most of the spillage accidents occur due to the negligence of oil companies such as Shell (Steiner 2008, pp. 131-141). Oil spillage has led to the contamination of over 50,000 square kilometers of farmland in Niger Delta (Kadafa, Zakaria Othman 2012, pp. 10-30). Consequently, over 20 million Nigerian famers have been rendered jobless. Furthermore, oil spillage has led to the destruction of mangrove forests in the delta, thereby reducing Nigeria’s timber exports (Zabbey 2005, pp. 7-10). In this regard, t he government of Nigeria should strengthen regulation in the oil industry so that MNEs can engage in ethical behaviors. Conclusion The aim of this paper was to examine the extent to which globalization has enhanced international trade in Nigeria. Initially, globalization led to increased exportation and balance of payment surplus in Nigeria. However, globalization also exposed Nigeria’s products to high competition in the international market. Additionally, fluctuation of commodity prices and Nigeria’s inability to add value to its products led to the loss of the competitiveness of its exports. Consequently, Nigeria’s exports have declined and its balance of payment has worsened. Additionally, poverty and unemployment continue to rise in the country. Thus, globalization has had more negative than positive effects on international trade in Nigeria. References Action Aid 2004, WTO Unfair to Developing Countries, actionaid.org.uk/1323/the-wto-delivers-an-unfair-dea l-for-poor-countries.html. Akinbobola, A 2001, Globalization and its Impact on the Emergent States, Zedek, Lagos. Akinlo, A 2012, ‘How Important is Oil in Nigeria’s Economic Growth’, Journal of Sustainable Development, vol. 5 no. 4, pp. 165-174. Bigman, D 2002, Globalization and the Developing Countries, Oxford University Press, London. CID Harvard University 2013, Textiles and Clothing Summary, cid.harvard.edu/cidtrade/issues/textiles.html. Dappa, T Otuya, B 2012, ‘The Effects of Globalization on Developing Economies: The Nigerian Experience’, African Journal of Philosophy, vol. 3 no. 1, pp. 23-45. Dayo, P, Nkonya, E Pender, J 2009, Constraints to Increasing Agricultural Productivity in Nigeria, International Food Policy Research Institute, Abuja. ECOWAS Commission 2010, The ECOWAS Common External Tariff and Regional Integration, viewed on interreseaux.org/img/pdf. Frieden, J Lake, D 2000, International Political Economy, Palgrave, London. IMF 20 01, Global Trade Liberalization and the Developing Countries, imf.org/external/np/exr/ib/2001/110801.html. Kadafa, A, Zakaria, M Othman, F 2012, ‘Oil Spillage and Pollution in Nigeria: Organizational Management and Institutional Framework’, Journal of Environmental and Earth Science, vol. 12 no. 4, pp. 10-30. Michael, L 2005, Partnership Agreement ACP-EU, European Commission, Luxembourg. Miller, R 2008, International Political Economy, McGraw-Hill, New York. Muhammad, N 2007, ‘Multilateral Trade Regime: Conflicts between Developed and Developing Nations’, International Review of Business Research Papers, vol. 3 no. 4, pp. 173-182. Nayyar, D 2001, Reform the UN and the Bretton Woods Institutions, WIDER, Helsinki. Oghenerobaro, M Robaro, A 2008, ‘The Impact of Globalization of Entrepreneurship Development in Developing Economies’, Journal of African Economies, vol. 4 no. 2, pp. 12-16. Ogwumike, F Olukayode, E 2012, ‘Globalization and Eco nomic Growth in Nigeria: A Multidimensional Analysis’, Pakistan Journal of Social Sciences, vol. 9 no. 2, pp. 89-95. Phillips, N Weaver, C 2011, International Political Economy, John Wiley and Sons, New York. Raghavan, C 2013, Globalization Needs International Regulations, twnside.org.sg/title/regu-cn.html. Reuvid, J Sherlock, J 2011, International Trade, Routledge, New York. Steiner, R 2008, ‘Double Standards? International Standards to Prevent and Control Pipeline Oil Spills, Compared with Shell Practices in Nigeria’, Journal of Environmental and Earth Science, vol. 8 no. 2, pp. 131-141. UNDP 2005, High Trade Policies Damaging Growth Prospects in Developing Countries, undp.bg/uploads/documents/1196642en.pdf. Walker, A 2011, The WTO Has Failed Developing Nations, guardian.co.ke/development/wto-fails-developing-countries. WTO 2013, Special and Preferential Treatment for Developing Countries, wto.org/english/tratop-edevel-especial-differential-provisions-e.html. Zabbey, N 2005, ‘Impacts of Extractive Industries on the Biodiversity of the Niger Delta Region’, Journal of Environmental and Earth Science, vol. 3 no. 1, pp. 7-10.

U.S. Teen Pregnancy and Abortion Rates

U.S. Teen Pregnancy and Abortion Rates Preventing teen pregnancy is one of those perennial hot-button issues in the news, and countless sources cite the statistic that 3/4 of a million teens become pregnant each year. But what are the real facts and figures on teenage pregnancy in the U.S.? How current is the data and is teen pregnancy overblown by the media? What are the statistics for teen abortions and teen births? The February 2012 study U.S. Teenage Pregnancies, Births and Abortions, 2008: National Trends by Age, Race and Ethnicity, authored by Kathryn Kost and Stanley Henshaw and released by the Guttmacher Institute draws upon the most current estimates available and provides data on teen pregnancy rates in the United States in 2008 on a national level. Teen pregnancy rates differ from teen birth rates in that pregnancy rates include births, abortions, miscarriages and stillbirths. Current statistics including pregnancy, birth and abortion rates are outlined below. Number of Teenage Pregnancies In 2008, there were approximately 746,500 teen pregnancies involving young women and girls under age 20. The bulk of those pregnancies 733,000 were among teens age 15-19, while girls 14 and younger accounted for 13,500 pregnancies. Teenage Pregnancy Rate Among teens age 15-17, the pregnancy rate was 67.8 pregnancies per 1,000 women or 7% of the population. This rate was the lowest in over 30 years, down 42% from the peak pregnancy rate of 116.9 per thousand in 1990. Among girls 14 and younger, the pregnancy rate declined 62% from a high of 17.5 pregnancies per thousand in 1990 to 6.6 per thousand in 2008. Pregnancy Rate of Sexually Active Teens The pregnancy rate of sexually experienced teens (those who have ever had intercourse) was 158.5 pregnancies per thousand young women age 15-19, which indicates that the overall teenage pregnancy rate includes a significant proportion of teens who have never had sex. That rate reached its peak in 1990 when it was 223.1 per thousand a decline of 29%. Teenage Birth Rate In 2008 the teen birth rate was 40.2 births per 1,000 women, a drop of 35% from the peak rate of 61.8 per thousand in 1991. Teenage Abortion Rate In 2008 the teen abortion rate was 17.8 abortions per 1,000 women, the lowest rate since abortion was legalized. Abortion rates for teens peaked in 1988 at 43.5 per thousand; compared with the 2008 rate, that represents a decline of 59%. Although teen birth and abortion rates have been on a steady decline for more than two decades, in 2006 there was a short-lived increase in both the teenage birth and abortion rate. Both rates resumed their decline according to 2008 figures. Teenage Abortion Ratio The proportion of teen pregnancies that end in abortion (known as the abortion ratio) declined by a third from 1986-2008, from 46% to 31%. Teen Pregnancy Rates Across Racial and Ethnic Groups Although declines were seen among all three groups (white, black, Hispanic), the teen pregnancy rate remains higher among black teens and Hispanic teens as compared to non-Hispanic white teens. For non-Hispanic white teens, the pregnancy rate declined 50% since 1990 (from 86.6 pregnancies per 1,000 to 43.3). Among black women aged 15–19, the pregnancy rate dropped 48% between 1990 and 2008 (from 223.8 pregnancies per 1,000 to 117.0). Hispanic teenagers (of any race), the pregnancy rate fell 37% from its highest level between 1992 and 2008 (from 169.7 per 1,000 to 106.6.) Teen Pregnancy Rates and Racial Disparity When compared to each other, the disparity in teen pregnancy rates across racial and ethnic groups is apparent. Rates among black and Hispanic teens were 2–3 higher than that of non-Hispanic white teens. Among the different groups, in 2008 the pregnancy rate per thousand for young women age 15-19 was: 43.3 for non-Hispanic white teens106.6 for Hispanic teens (of any race)117.0 for black teens Teen Abortion Rates and Racial Disparity A similar disparity exists in teen abortion rates across racial and ethnic groups. Abortion rates among black teens were 4 times higher than that of non-Hispanic white teens; among Hispanic teens, the rate was twice as high. Among the different groups, in 2008 the abortion rate per thousand for young women age 15-19 was: 10.4 for non-Hispanic white teens20.1 for Hispanic teens (of any race)40.8 for black teens Teen Birth Rates and Racial Disparity Likewise, the disparity continues in teen birth rates across racial and ethnic groups. Birth rates among black and Hispanic teens in 2008 were twice the rate of non-Hispanic white teens. Among the different groups, in 2008 the birth rate per thousand for young women age 15-19 was: 26.6 for non-Hispanic white teens70.3 for Hispanic teens (of any race)60.1 for black teens Number of Pregnancies, Births, Abortions and Estimated Miscarriages In 2008 the following numbers for women younger than age 20 were recorded and/or estimated: Total number of pregnancies - 746,530Total number of births - 440,522Total number of abortions - 198,100Total number of estimated miscarriages (including stillbirths) - 107,910 Out of a total population of young women age 15-19 in the U.S. of 10,805,000, roughly 7% of teen girls were pregnant in 2008. Source:Kost, Kathryn and Stanley Henshaw. U.S. Teenage Pregnancies, Births and Abortions, 2008: National Trends by Age, Race and Ethnicity. Guttmacher Institute, Guttmacher.org. 8 February 2012.

Problem Set on Price Levels and Open Economy Macro Essay

Problem Set on Price Levels and Open Economy Macro - Essay Example 2. When national income rises due to increased payments, imports are likely to increase in value relative to exports and as a result, the external value of the currency will depreciate thus weakening real and nominal exchange rates in the long run. For example, the 1986 fall in the price of oil led to a depreciation of the sterling pound on the foreign-exchange market. On the other hand, a reduction in national income reduces import in value relative to exports the resultant effect being the appreciation of external value of currency thus strengthening real and nominal exchange rates in the long run. 3. Factors such as indirect taxes, subsidies and transport costs may change prices of goods in a country but not affect the exchange rates. If a country imposes tariff on imports from abroad, the price in the home market would rise but since less foreign currency would be spent on it, the long run exchange rate will tend to improve. The long run nominal exchange rate will also improve. 4. Short-term capital moves from one country to another as changes take place in the rate of interest being offered by each country.

Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Summary - Essay Example The second solution was increased federalization which translates to increase funding from government institutions. The third solution is an increased cultivation of general public support where a medicine program could gain support through area health care providers. The fourth solution was increased pluralistic leadership which would be increasing the remittances from alumni, which also means taking a proactive approach from the perspective of the university through alumni outreach programs etc. There is the additional option of â€Å"Paying closer attention to long-term directions of movement.† This means taking an anticipatory approach to understanding what the market conditions will be in the long term future. The great uncertainty from this function is the question of what would happen to productivity if a nation were to not take full advantage of its educational assets. What this means is that ensuring that a strong educational research policy is pivotal to ensuring the long term economic and political success of a nation operating in a global environment. The second article to be examined for this paper is titled Magnet Schools and the Pursuit of Racial Balance by Goldring and Smrekar of Vanderbilt University.

Imaging Informatics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 7500 words

Imaging Informatics - Essay Example egrated with a number of clinical data systems such as the HIS and the RIS which is used in the medical images distribution all over the image centred bases and in electronic archiving (Samei, 2004). The flow of work in departments of radiology has been enhanced in the current age due to the PACS installation progressive development alongside significant reductions in the costs of healthcare which have in combination had positive impacts on the care of the sick (Samei, 2004). The proliferation of more technical features maybe sustainably enhanced, according to Lemke (2011), and since such features in order to meet the requirements of medical personnel and systems of healthcare need new avenues/ approaches, a number of obstacles may be experienced. Compared to other choices such as film, PACS installations though costly may in the long run lead to reduced expenditure. However, there is the necessity for medical services after evaluating the overall features that can assist in meeting all requirements to use the PACS that are appropriate in order to reduce the significance of the effect of the effectiveness of cost of medical institutions that welcome huge numbers of patients yearly (Robertson and Saveraid, 2008). Along the same vein, the proceeding deliberation focuses on PACS’ general and technical characteristics/ features according to two various manufacturers. Apart from discussing the PACS’ advantages and disadvantages, this analysis wi ll additionally delve into the similarities and differences of the PACS. In addition, the discussion offers recommendations concerning the most appropriate systems for different clinical situations. In general, the two main PACS looked at in this issue, which are the most relevant in this debate because of their presence and popularity in the markets such as in Saudi Arabia, are the Agfa IMPAX 6 and the Fujifilm’s Synapse (Samei et al, 2004). According to Agfa Healthcare (2012), Agfa has installed over 200 PACS in over

Egan's Clothiers Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Egan's Clothiers - Term Paper Example This made the employees want to sell as much items as possible in order to be ranked at a higher level of productivity. This appraisal system did not perform at it best though, the sales of the firm increased. At one time, the store manager acknowledges that the performance of the employees got worse because they did not respect customers. They would harass them in order to make more sales. Performance appraisal is one of the major tools that are used to improve the productivity of workers at their place of their work and to be effective. In order for an organization to attain its stipulated goals, appropriate performance appraisal tools should be put in place in order to increase workers performance. Most organizations perform below the required level, making very little sales per day since their workers are not encouraged to perform better and to work harder. If an organization does not invest in to the welfare of the workers, problems are bound to happen such as low morale and pro ductivity and low level of commitment at work. Attractive systems of appraisal are set up in order to motivate workers to work harder and recognized through promotions and rewards (Selden & Sowa, 2011). For instance, Egan Clothier uses a promotion strategy that is based on the productivity of the workers. The workers are encouraged to sell as much as possible. The retailers made more sales as compared to its competitors because the Egan’s Clothiers hired employees based on their past experiences. The employees would then undergo through a retail selling skills training and customers services training. This put the Clothier ahead of its competitors who hired inexperienced students from high schools (Snell & Bohlander, 2011). Although, the training program cost the Egan’s approximately 750, 000 dollars, the management thinks it was worth the cost because the workers would perform at their best making more sales and hence more revenue in the long run. On the other hand, t he Egan’s associates rewarding of the workers based on their performance. Their on-going sales would be recorded and used to categorize the workers. The firm would then use the categories to promote the workers within the firm. This activity ensured that the workers sold as many items as possible hence increasing the overall sales turn out of the form. This appraisal system was ineffective because the workers would do everything possible to hit the set individual targets. They would even beat up their customers in order to sell. Are there other performance effects directly and/or indirectly caused by the appraisal system? Appraisal system used by Egan Clothiers had several effects, both directly and indirectly. For instance, the system is not effective in reducing cost of labor instead the worker’s productivity is worsening. According to Paul Kelly, the store manager, the workers are beating up the customers in order to make a sale. Peter Drucker, on the other hand say s that establishing effective decision making is important at every level of the employees. Egan failed to acknowledge the satisfaction of the workers based on the appraisal system used. Egan Clothiers only took the first of improving performance of the workers and neglecting other aspects that affected the performance of the organization. An organization should use successful criteria of evaluation. The criteria based on the performance o

Are you a leader If so, why If not, why not Reflect on your Essay

Are you a leader If so, why If not, why not Reflect on your performance in a leadership role. What did you do well What did - Essay Example The Australian Leadership Development Centre believes on one meaning of this word. It may just be a simple yet strong definition. According to the Centre, leadership is â€Å"any behaviour that influences the actions and attitudes of followers to achieve certain results† (Killian, 2007). There are some people who say that for one to be a leader that person should have followers. Example, a person who can be so timid and quiet can be pushed by certain factors like emotions and intellect to come out of his shell and make his voice be heard. People then noticed him and took quite a following because of his belief. That does make him a leader already? He can be considered as a leader. Another definition for leadership is â€Å"about managing energy, first in yourself and then in those around you.† That made the first example a leader, he is a made leader rather than a born leader (de Percy, 2009). There are people who were born to lead. They are those who do have a very str ong personality, will to serve and always make it a point that their opinions are heard, convincing and influential. Most of the times these people are born from a family of leaders and they were brought up with high awareness of the advocacy is to be heard and make others follow. The school is where the foundation of being a leader begins. This is where the skills are discovered and enhanced. From a simple classroom organization to the next level of a club or organization are considered as the learning grounds of a person who dreams to become a leader. Skills are needed to become a leader. But the first step in becoming one is being confident and making one self to be heard with pride and without the fear for the criticism that might be awaiting that person once he opens his mind and mouth to make way for his thoughts and opinions to be heard. This is also the place where everything starts to shape up. If one realizes that he could not stand the criticism being brought up to him, t hat person tends to be just one of the followers. However, when one continues to fight for his opinions and debate on criticisms, that person is on his way in becoming a leader. Being a leader though also involves quite a few factors. One factor that may come into mind is one’s willingness to lead. Even if one person do have the characteristics of being a leader, if that person have other things in mind that hinders him from being one, he would not become one. That person do have all that it takes to become an effective leader but ought to be a follower, he would not become a leader. Willingness to lead is the first step on becoming a leader. Leading a pact of people should be in one’s heart and mind to do his role efficiently. If one is just forced to the position of a leader, therefore that person would not be efficient for the reason that being a leader is not what he wants to be in his life. Next is that the person needs to have a goal. Why does he want to be a lea der? For the fame? For the power? There are so many reasons that can be stated on why a person would want to be a leader. If the cause of that want is perceived by the many to be for the good of everyone, therefore that prospect leader would be a leader because he has a goal and that goal was conveyed in a convincing manner which made others believe in his opinions. That is the next factor, the power to convince. As what have been stated earlier, to be a leader one should

A South African Investment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

A South African Investment - Essay Example While comprehensive civil rights as well as freedom are critically imperative to all people in order that they can realize their absolute potential and assert their appropriate place in humanity, there are other, supplementary fundamental needs that ought to be satisfied prior to a person worries about spiritual, intellectual and related individual freedoms and rights. It may not be reasonable to offer an individual full government, social, as well as legal rights if they are deprived any reasonable sources of livelihood (Mbendi, 2008). Caltex had the power to influence political policies on the South African government in order that the government may revive its laws. This has happened in other parts of the world, whereby conglomerates influence government policies in order to create a conducive environment for business. Foreign financial investments mean a great deal in any country since it revitalizes the social-economic status of the population and the national economy as well (T obin, 2009). It is an ignominy that Caltex had no problem investing in a country whose laws were exceedingly abhorrent to humanity. In contrast it is factual that in that era, the living standards of the South African minorities as well as the Blacks were in a deplorable state. They vast majority of these populations lived in pitiable homes, and had poor access to high quality educational programs. They were also deprived the right to practice certain jobs or careers, and granted wages that were exceedingly less than that of the white population in South Africa (Nicholas, 2008). For numerous South African Blacks at the time, for whom so several outside the nation had the courage to confront the repressive regime may have chosen to take up jobs at the Caltex plant which granted them better living wages and better workplace environment than in the civil service. It is justifiable to imply that absolute freedom may not have been the priority for all Black South Africans who needed bett er living standards. Therefore, the Caltex plant may have been the category of investments that were essentially required in the country at the time. The only provision Caltex ought to have added would have been the maintenance of reasonable wages and reasonable housing for its black and colored human resources (Mbendi, 2008). Question 2. As a stockholder in Standard Oil or Texaco, it would have been appropriate to vote in agreement with the three stockholder declarations. While it is factual that under the utilitarian philosophies, it might not of necessity have been the most appropriate option for Caltex, Standard Oil or Texaco to desist from investing in South Africa. As a stockholder, it would have been appropriate to vote according to individual conscience. Any financial recompense, such as facilitating the generation of national income from the mining of natural resources or construction of national industries such as in petroleum, appears as unconscionable in regard to the fu ndamental premise on which the South African government operated and survived (Nicholas, 2008). The first resolution demanded that Caltex terminates all its operations in South Africa unless and until the government ceased

Are you a leader If so, why If not, why not Reflect on your Essay

Are you a leader If so, why If not, why not Reflect on your performance in a leadership role. What did you do well What did - Essay Example The Australian Leadership Development Centre believes on one meaning of this word. It may just be a simple yet strong definition. According to the Centre, leadership is â€Å"any behaviour that influences the actions and attitudes of followers to achieve certain results† (Killian, 2007). There are some people who say that for one to be a leader that person should have followers. Example, a person who can be so timid and quiet can be pushed by certain factors like emotions and intellect to come out of his shell and make his voice be heard. People then noticed him and took quite a following because of his belief. That does make him a leader already? He can be considered as a leader. Another definition for leadership is â€Å"about managing energy, first in yourself and then in those around you.† That made the first example a leader, he is a made leader rather than a born leader (de Percy, 2009). There are people who were born to lead. They are those who do have a very str ong personality, will to serve and always make it a point that their opinions are heard, convincing and influential. Most of the times these people are born from a family of leaders and they were brought up with high awareness of the advocacy is to be heard and make others follow. The school is where the foundation of being a leader begins. This is where the skills are discovered and enhanced. From a simple classroom organization to the next level of a club or organization are considered as the learning grounds of a person who dreams to become a leader. Skills are needed to become a leader. But the first step in becoming one is being confident and making one self to be heard with pride and without the fear for the criticism that might be awaiting that person once he opens his mind and mouth to make way for his thoughts and opinions to be heard. This is also the place where everything starts to shape up. If one realizes that he could not stand the criticism being brought up to him, t hat person tends to be just one of the followers. However, when one continues to fight for his opinions and debate on criticisms, that person is on his way in becoming a leader. Being a leader though also involves quite a few factors. One factor that may come into mind is one’s willingness to lead. Even if one person do have the characteristics of being a leader, if that person have other things in mind that hinders him from being one, he would not become one. That person do have all that it takes to become an effective leader but ought to be a follower, he would not become a leader. Willingness to lead is the first step on becoming a leader. Leading a pact of people should be in one’s heart and mind to do his role efficiently. If one is just forced to the position of a leader, therefore that person would not be efficient for the reason that being a leader is not what he wants to be in his life. Next is that the person needs to have a goal. Why does he want to be a lea der? For the fame? For the power? There are so many reasons that can be stated on why a person would want to be a leader. If the cause of that want is perceived by the many to be for the good of everyone, therefore that prospect leader would be a leader because he has a goal and that goal was conveyed in a convincing manner which made others believe in his opinions. That is the next factor, the power to convince. As what have been stated earlier, to be a leader one should

Economic Growth And Standard Of Living Essay Example for Free

Economic Growth And Standard Of Living Essay To understand any topic it is always important to take note of the key words. In this case I am going to first pin point the key words. Economy in a lay man’s language is the management of finances or care in the use of resources. Others may say it is a system of producing and managing resources. This then puts everyone in light that economic growth as the increment of management and use of resources like finances, wealth and so on. Standard of living can measured by types of living styles that is quality (living in high standards and able to afford especially the basic needs) or of no quality that is (poor quality most especially not being able to afford the basics in life and probably living below the poverty line) (Elkington J. , 1974); Economic growth is seen on both extremes by different individuals that is the best or worst and the sides of it depending on how it has affected their standards of living. The way it affects the standards of living in the present and how it affected in the past is very different from the way it will be tomorrow. Its further expansion today has also affected different individuals differently. Others have seen it to have caused more harm than good while others see it to have caused more than more good than harm and this second group appears to be the majority hence increasing the gap between these two groups of people (The World Business Council for sustainable). Nevertheless economic growth to a larger extent is seen as a valuable vehicle for raising standards of living in aspects like social life, political aspects and even psychological aspects. Since time immemorial, everyone valued a high standard of living and every member of the family and society worked toward achieving more and more resources so as to live a better life. Men, women and children for instance did farming and cultivated food crops for home consumption. This was in the past before the innovation of cash economy. In that era, the three fundamental processes used in economic growth were identification, cooperation and imitation Aragon-Correa and Sharma S. , 2003 and Dunphy D, Griffiths A, and Benn S. , 2000). Today or presently it is true that further economic expansion has been seen. This is why the world today bases on the mechanism of â€Å"survival for the fittest†. This mechanism is mainly trying to see that everyone actively participates towards economic growth and hence improving their standards of living. So people have just deliberately decided to be lazy and they are the same people complaining of economic growth as unnecessary. They have given others the opportunity to even grow richer as they (the lazy ones) become poorer. It is important to note that as the world economy grows, the standard of living also grows. It does not remain stagnant hence the capacity of manpower in the society should also increase so as to match the economic growth and avoid lagging behind. It is done in this manner, and then the difficulty of economic growth affecting the standards of living presently will not be felt (World Economic Forum). It is seen clearly that as world’s life proceeds, very many aspects change. For instance, the population of South Africa in early 1930’s cannot match or be the same as the population today. Today’s population has definitely outgrown the one of 1930’s hence the economic growth will remain a valuable vehicle for raising and not degrading the standards of living if we check into issues like education, population control, employment especially skilled manpower in professional fields, etc. good example here is population control. In the past population was not as big and huge as today hence the issue of poor standard of living was not intensely felt. Today the population has double even tripled in specific places. This then has led to shortage of land, food, employment, schools hence giving the first priorities to the rich who can scramble. This then has led to high illiteracy, creation of slums, high crime rates. So if population standards are controlled by example introducing and sensitizing people on the issue of using contraceptives, keeping people in schools especially women who can go up to high institutions of learning hence making them concentrate in books and by the time they think of marriage, they are old enough not to give birth to too many children as compared to when they are out of school making them marry early and bearing many children. The issue of education, population control will improve both the economic growth and standards of living in the long run (World Economic Forum). Another very crucial thing is and that we in the world today cannot do without is the fact that of the machineries invention and innovation. This was not in the past, but today it has actually improved our majority standards of living. It is a fact that even the poor man at least can afford some kind of machinery for instance he or she may not afford a television set but may afford a small radio of about three dollars. This is because it is extremely important to listen to and know what is going on in the world through that small radio an issue that was not there in the past though people at that time were still comfortable because these machineries were not there. This hence is seen that economic growth is vats and can accommodate everyone. This means that despite the economic growth, there are still some cheap commodities that can be afforded by the low level people so as to enjoy their lives. The economic growth is also seen to incorporate the non professional activities for example engaging in vegetable sales, shoe shining, house helps and so on. Not everyone has a professional duty like teaching; nursing, etc yet even the non professional people must live and enjoy their lives. By doing their non-professional duties, they also actively participate in economic growth. For instance, a person doing the shoe shine job will have to buy the shoe polish hence contributing to the economic growth of the shoe polish company. On the other side of the economic growth, which is also to a lesser extent, I see its further expansions to be unnecessary and especially when its undesirable effects are considered from a true – cost perspective rather than form a true – benefit perspective (World Economic Forum). As I have discussed in the previous paragraphs, everyone cannot be the same in terms of gifts and talents, in brain, strength, authority and understanding. There must be both low and high level people. This also applies in the standard of living which is determined by the economic growth. For sure it is true that it affects people differently. In the real world, today, this economic growth has made the rich richer and the poor poorer. This hence has made the poor group to look at economic growth as an enemy. This is mainly because the poor have not been given a chance to enjoy the changes that come with economic growth. For instance, most of the poor people are not computer literates hence when employment opportunities come up, the first requirement is computer literacy which completely excludes them from the race even when one had the potential of doing that job. These computer courses are mainly provided in the schools of the rich (International Chamber of Commerce, Business charter for sustainable Development, 1990). Economic growth has been accompanied by a lot of bureaucracy. The rich people have taken the top levels and the poor people the low levels. It becomes very difficult for the one at the bottom to reach the one at the top. Before one reaches to the top from the bottom he or she must have used a lot of time, some little finances so as to get favours fro above. Those favours mainly may not be there because the ones at the top always are interested in doing things that favour and benefit them especially when it comes to finances thus rendering the poor back to or get stuck in poor living standards (World commission for Environment and development, 1987). When it comes to distribution of resources, it is clearly seen that some regions in countries are not considered or given priorities. This then instead of improving their standards of living through economic growth, they continue to deteriorate. A good example is usually when the politicians especially the presidents in the third world countries who give priorities to their regions of origin neglecting the other regions. This is even worse when a certain region has got no representative in the government hence making them curse the economic growth (World Economic Forum). In summary, I have discussed that economic growth is for raising the living standards to a larger extent in that †¢ It helps improve the capacity of manpower thus encouraging participation to improve the living standards Because everyone wants to olive in a good standard population will be controlled and hence more savings for more economic growth. †¢ Education is seen as an important factor leading to both economic growth and standard of living though in the long run †¢ Employment opportunities which leads to earnings and savings hence considering both the economic growth and living standards as valuable †¢ Economic growth being vats tha t is accommodating both the rich and the poor through machinery. An example is if one cannot afford a television then he r she can buy a radio which he or she can afford to listen to hence seen as improved his or her standards of living. †¢ it has too much bureaucracy making low level people not reach the top people †¢ Top people are seen as selfish and just for issues that benefit them especially finances. †¢ Poor people not given a chance to enjoy changes that come with economic growth for example computer literacy which is mainly taught in schools for the rich. In conclusion, economic growth is important to our living standards but can be disastrous especially when others are deprived of it. This ends up creating gaps between people hence leading to other social problems. There is a low level of economic growth rate. Economists’ researchers have maintained that in order for economy to realize good standard of living 10% increase in her economy is necessary, she must invest 10 % of her national income. Reduce consumption, increase investments or savings at same time reduce the family size children or they end up in vicious cycle of poverty. There is a lot of pressure in terms of provision of social services in un developed world. This leads to difficulty in distributing resources equally. It is also costly because of the large numbers thus social service provision becomes inadequate. It is seen to be affecting the nature of social services for example leading to poor housing and low quality of education.

Democratic and Transformational styles of leadership

Democratic and Transformational styles of leadership In times of tough economic situation businesses face today, it is essential to stay as effective as one can be. In order to be an effective leader, besides other things, one must know or learn how to manage stress not only in the work place, but also outside work. Our generation is set in a very challenging and vivid environment. People are being thrown at with various demands everywhere. Stress can be defined as the unconscious preparation to fight or flee a person experiences when faced with any demand (Nelson Quick, 2006). Stress is an inevitable part of our everyday life. We cannot get rid of it for sure, but we can reduce stress to acceptable levels, or to the amount it can be helpful. If not managed successfully, stress can cause health problems, both physical and emotional. To create a stress reducing program, I have chosen the democratic leadership style and the autocratic style. Democratic leader initiates collaboration, delegates power, interacts with its employees and cares about their decisions. This style is the best when the outcome is not known, and the emphasis is on the quality of the job. Manager likes to communicate with its employees, takes into consideration employees opinions, and invites them to share ideas, allowing employees to take part in leading. Feed back in this style is highly recommended and expected, the manger builds on feedback (Oates, (n.d.). Autocratic or commanding leader is the opposite of the previous one. Such a leader does not ask for opinions of its employees, but sets strict rules and regulations that ought to be followed. This style is used when the direction and the outcome are clear, and the team must follow certain rules or steps. Most decisions here are made by the manager himself, without discussing with his employees, so the communication is often only one- way. There is hardly any power delegating to the followers and the leader maintains the authority. Feedback to the leader is uncommon and not tolerated, can be perceived as an unacceptable criticism (Oates, (n.d.). Democratic style stress reducing program: There are more traits in this style that help reduce stress compared to the other one. Democratic style creates a positive work environment, where employees are given responsibilities, and are empowered to do certain tasks on their own, offering challenge which is the type of stress that is good. If the employees feel good in the company, enjoy the job and experiencing healthy stress. Another stress reducing trait of this style is that it provides room for communication and feedback, which is very important. If a leader communicates with his employees, he knows their needs and their problems, and can help them sort these out. Giving positive feedback to an employee is a great motivator and can also increase productivity, since positive appraisals to employees are very valued, and also boost confidence, which helps to reduce stress. Democratic style provides plenty possibilities for creative thinking. The shared decision making process invites for ideas of all members, therefore if the employees have a great idea, they are free to share it and even if it is not such a great idea, they know they will not be punished. Employees will be under lower stress if they are free to use their initiative, and they are being supported with their initiatives and even given credit for it. The use of the two-way communication creates no room for grapevine, therefore there is less tension in the work place, consequently leading to less stressful situations. Employees led by democratic leader are less likely to switch jobs, because they feel more appreciated, feel more involved and by giving more responsibilities, they dedicate themselves to the company for a longer period of time, because they are not experiencing distress, but rather eustress. Some of the stressful situations that may arise under democratic leadership are the lengthy and boring decision making. For some employees, the long and shared decision making can be stressful. Therefore in order to reduce stress in such situation, more involvement from the leader would be required, to move from one point to another. There are leaders that pretend to be democratic leaders, who just want their employees to think they care about them, but such actions can cause a lot of stress and dissatisfaction among employees. Leaders should not just pretend to listen to their employees, but really listen to them and try to implement their ideas. Democratic style may create stress in a type of employees that want to have rules, that want to be directed and that do not want to participate in the decision making process. In such a situation, the worker should be either explained the importance of this style, and how important his ideas could be. If the employee cannot put up with such an approach, maybe it will be best to transfer him to a department with more direct rules (Oates, (n.d.). In a democratic environment, in order to create a good stress, eustress, the leader may assign somebody with a role of devils advocate, who will question every decision, making it even more inspiring for others to participate. Democratic Program: Democratic leader agrees on a meeting with his employees, where they will be discussing stress issues inside and outside the workplace. The meeting will not be held by the leader, but the leader will inspire his employees to freely share their ideas. He can encourage them by sharing his concerns or problems first. Democratic leader does not force employees to participate. If there are individuals that want to share their personal problems confidentially, he will have them come to his office and have a private talk. The important step during these meetings is to identify the causes of stress at the workplace. Some of the common causes can be the fear of layoffs, increased demands, and pressure from manager to meet expectations. On the next meeting, team can come up with some team building activities, that will reduce the potential tension among the employees, and they will learn the roles they have in teams. Members can suggest some sport activities that the team can do together after work, because it reduces stress, and builds good relationships. Next task for the team to discuss would be the time management, and how could they improve. If people are running out of time, the pressure is on and the stress increases rapidly. Even democratic manager should create a balanced schedule. The team should plan regular breaks during work time. If the members experience lack of time, they could agree to come to work a little bit earlier to get ahead of time. Task management is very important in teams with democratic leader, since the decision making process takes longer. The tasks should be prioritized; some activities must get a high priority and others low. If the team seems to be lost in a project, manager should split it up not to lose focus on the objectives (Stress at work, 2010). 1st email message to general staff: Subject: Launch of the new stress reduction program Message: Dear members of the team, Due to fact we have all experienced the increased level of stress throughout past weeks, I would like to meet with you to discuss specific problems. I would like to kindly ask every one of you to think about the major issue that bothers you the most, and come up with suggestions for improvement. The program of the first meeting will mostly consist of the brainstorming the ideas, and solutions to them. Looking forward to meeting you, Your democratic leader. 2nd email to the general staff, after the rirst meeting: Subject: First meeting reactions Message: Thank you all for your active participation, I am delighted with the number of the solutions we came up with. If there is anything else you would like to add, or consult with me, do not hesitate to contact me. Looking forward to our next meeting. Autocratic style stress reducing program: Working with this commanding type of leader may create more stressful situations, compared to the democratic style, however, there are situations where this type can be less stressful. In some cases, it can be less stressful for an autocratic leader, since he is in charge of all the decisions, and knows he controls his own fate. On the other side, if there is too much for the leader to bear, he can be over stressed with too many decisions for him to make, so delegating power could take away some stress. If the employees prefer to be supervised and are poorly motivated, or have low interest in improving quality, autocratic style would be more productive than the team that is not commanded. Commanding style may reduce stress by improved logistics or time management. One leader can better keep deadlines and spot problems on projects that require certain schedule and complicated operations. In such cases long decision making would not be appropriate. Since there is only one to make decisions, snap decisions can be made immediately, which can on side reduce stress in the team, but may certainly put more stress on the leader, because the success or the failure of the project depends purely on his decision. If employees are not being listened to and are only supposed to follow the directions of the leader, there is room for stress to be created. Therefore, even autocratic leaders should be more open to the two-way communication, and providing also positive feedback to their employees. Autocratic leaders should lessen the pressure that is put on their employees, and appraise them for their work. Autocratic style seems to be unpopular among employees, sometimes being compared to as having no leadership skills, just commanding people. Therefore such leaders should provide some of their soft skills and try to listen to their employees more. By only giving orders, the confidence of employees will not be increased, so the productivity will be lower, and people will be under more stress. By delegating power to the employees, the manager reduces stress that is put on them, and shares the stress load with his team members. In some companies, autocratic leaders may experience huge loads of stress, while being responsible for everything. Empowering employees also improves the productivity, because employees can work on something they are responsible for, and if managed well, experience appraisal, which reduces stress. For the generation Y people that are naturally motivated by work, and work because they like the job, theycan be discouraged by the autocratic leader, therefore should be given more flexibility in order to reduce their stress. For such people being ordered is the worst thing, because they lose motivation and the productivity as well. If the team is mainly consisting of such people, the leader should not imply strict rules, but rather involve employees in the decision making and leave room for them to be challenged, because that is what motivates then the most. In case employees get used to such commanding style, they can become dependent on their leader, and without him, not being able to work. In such teams, productivity decreases rapidly and individual contribution is not present (Oates, (n.d.). While commanding style may work on short term projects, in long term ones it can cause substantial stress among the employees. Autocratic program: Autocratic leader would probably call the meeting himself and have the topics already prepared. Commanding leader needs to improve his communication. Employees do not like to be ordered at all times, they prefer being informed to reduce their uncertainty. The two- way communication is essential in a stress reducing environment, meaning the exchange of thoughts and feelings. Autocratic manager should learn how to consult their employees, and involve them in decision making, which will go hand in hand with higher motivation. The workload should also be consulted, whether they are able to perform all the tasks assigned. Autocratic leader needs to work on his emotional intelligence. This includes self- awareness, as the ability to show emotions, self- management, controlling yourself under all circumstances. Be socially aware, trying to understand his employees. Autocratic leaders need to build good relationships at work, because without it, the employees will either work under stress, or will be leaving the team very often. Next step could be to provide rewards and incentives for employees. Everybody needs to feel appraised for good work. Employees should not only be punished and criticized for bad work, but most importantly to be rewarded for good results. Even though task management in most cases of commanding leadership is done well, some leaders put too much on their shoulders, putting themselves under stress. Instead, they should delegate more power to their employees, which will be happy they are included in the task, and the manger will experience less stress. Relationship management is something autocratic leaders dont do, but is essential for the working environment. Manager should be able to inspire their employees not only by direct orders, but also by other means. Relationship building can be improved by many teambuilding activities: playing sports, going out together, find common interest with members of the team and interact more. Autocratic manager can reduce stress by breaking some of his bad habits. Commanding types tend to be perfectionist, which in reality cannot work. Nothing can ever be perfect; therefore managers should try to resist perfectionism. Setting up unrealistic goals that are unattainable can be very stressful, for everyone concerned. Humour is a great way how to release tension at work. Manager should not take all things seriously, sometimes looking at the problem from the other side is the best we can do (Stress at work, 2010). 1st email message to general staff: Subject: Launch of the new stress reduction program Message: Dear employees, I would like to inform you that there will be a meeting concerning the latest issues regarding stress. I have come up with some suggestions that might improve current situation. I expect all of you to be present on the meeting. Best regards, Your Autocratic boss. 2nd email to the general staff, after the rirst meeting: Subject: Update on the first meeting Message: I would like to thank you for coming to the meeting, I think the suggested solutions will work, and I strongly encourage you to start applying those. We will be meeting shortly to push the changes further. Talk to you soon. Conclusion: Every single leadership style has its drawbacks and positive sides. If manager can identify the benefits and reduce the negatives of his leadership style, everyone involved will benefit. Positive working environment, improved motivation along with the balanced work/life can reduce the impacts of stress employees and leaders are put through. In times of economic crises, where the demands are higher than ever, learning how to cope with stress is a necessity. Leaders should learn to listen to the needs of their subordinates, communicate effectively and lead efficiently.

Once there Was a Village :: essays research papers

The book, Once There Was a Village, written by Yuri Kapralov, is an autobiographical tale of his experiences living in the ethnically diverse East Village of New York City. The story takes place during the late 1960s and early 1970s and most of the events occur around Thompson Square Park-- the center of Alphabet City. Yuri Kapralov came to America after World War II, displaced from the Caucuses. He made the East Village home. In the book, he was adamant about what is the â€Å"East Village†. His description was west of Avenue A. He describes the ethnic composition as ever changing, but for the later part of the sixties, was mostly divided into Puerto Ricans, Russians, Polish, Blacks, and Bohemians; the bohemians were further divided into black-and-white couples, students, left-over beatniks and hippies. Kapralov describes how the area around Thompson Square Park and much of New York, during the late sixties and early seventies, became a dangerous place to call home. Crime was a daily occurrence brought on by the drug infestation and poverty typical of the location and era. People of the East Village were poor and disheartened by what they considered the New York Police Department’s lack of protection. In the late 1960s,although the East Village was overrun with crime, police officers were rarely seen east of First Avenue. Letters were written to the mayor and to newspapers requesting patrol officers in the area. The letters were either ignored or the authors were told the manpower was not available. Due to this situation, the Police become an object of hate. They never seemed to be there for protection against the ever recurrent muggings, robberies, and general violence against East Village citizens. The crime was so frequent that the residents began defending themselves with anything available and even resorted to buying illegal weapons. Many residents were caught with these illegally purchased weapons and arrested, further straining relations with law enforcement The summer of 1966 saw the climax of the antagonistic relationship with law enforcement and residents. There were street riots on Avenues C and B. Cars were burned, stores were robbed and people were killed. That evening, the area turned into a War Zone during the evening east of Avenue B. The community had many different views of the events. The Russian immigrants, who were deemed by the writer to be "more racist", saw the events as evident of the Black and Puerto Rican people acting "out of control" and the neighborhood "going to hell".

Why Criticize People For Helping Themselves :: essays research papers

Why Criticize People For Helping Themselves?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are many things in this world that seem offensive. Some of what is considered offensive is necessary to how some people make their livings. Court systems, parents, and other groups have come to believe that what is said in music, movies, and video games, contribute to the actions of some individuals as youngsters. To me this is wrong; I have always felt that way. It has actually helped the people saying the stuff, more than it has every hurt anybody, and I am going to explain this in the rest of this writing.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Now when I talk about the person saying the offenses, I am speaking of the performers. Most of my paper is going to be centered on Interscope Records, and their number one artist, Marshal Mathers III.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marshal Mathers III is also known as Eminem, or Slim Shady. He says these are his alternate personalities, obviously a show for the fans. Marshal Mathers III is named after his grandfather. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and moved around with his mother until the age of 9. He never really had any friends, or family other than his mother until they settled down in Southwest Detroit. There they settled down into an apartment in the ghetto, and lived in poverty for most of his childhood.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marshal had no friends because of their constant moving, and being a skinny white kid in the ghetto, he got picked on, and bullied a lot. This caused him to grow more and more angry at the world, and then to finally isolate himself to work on his music.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  He got teased a lot for wanting to be a white rapper, and never really got any appreciation until his first freestyle contest. At age 18 he entered his first rap freestyle contest and came in runner-up. This just encouraged him to try harder and entered in the Annual L.A. Rap Olympics one year later.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  He finally came out triumphant when he took first place. This started his career, because veteran rapper Dr. Dre was attending the Rap Olympics and liked what he heard. Dr. Dre at that time was the C.E.O. of Death Row Records at the time and immediately signed Eminem on for a record deal.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Marshal’s first professionally recorded cd, Slim Shady L.P., started a nationwide fan club. He used language and lyrics that have never before been used in music, that offended most of the nation’s parents.