Effective Tools and Tips for Getting the Most from Your Work Relations Assignment

Effective Tools and Tips for Getting the Most from Your Work Relationships by Mathew Gilbert - Assignment Example Mathew Gilbert has written extensively on business, spirituality, and psychology topics. He has also served as an editorial director at the renowned Institute of Noetic Sciences. Apart from authoring Communication Miracles at Work, Gilbert is also the author of The Workplace Revolution. This book provides its readers with the ability to identify some of the obstacles to effective communication in the workplace. This book also outlines some of the ways of breaking bad communication habits and how employees can communicate effectively at their workplace to achieve harmony in the workplace. The major topics in this book include; the role that stress plays in ineffective communication, influencing corporate culture on the ability of employees to get along with one another, gender issues, and effective communication skills for navigating a variability of real-world situations (Gilbert 34). The author, Gilbert also offers practical advice to its readers that can be applied to any job situation. In essence, this book practically demonstrates that improving communication within an organization is the key to having and enjoying a better day-to-day work experience. The author starts off by first of all talking about the work itself and how it has gone through changes over the years. In his opinion, this author claims that most companies were initially straitlaced, with lots of earnest men dressed in starched white shirts and conservative ties undertaking narrow but important roles with steadfast commitment (Gilbert 9). There existed specific rules, clear chains of commands and a general drone of commerce. This defined the times when companies like IBM, Ford and General Electric ruled the Western World. Unfortunately, this is no more since more women are in the workforce, there is more autonomy for employees, there are more teamwork and partnering, there is flextime and job shares, and the ever-growing multicultural diversity. As a matter of fact, the modern day workplace bears little resemblance to the one in which our fathers made a life commitment to work in (Gilbert 10).  Ã‚  

Robert Browning Essay Example for Free

Robert Browning Essay The dramatic monologue form which is now widely used, allows the author to engage his reader more directly by placing him in the role of listener. Often they are to interpret about a dramatic event or experience they are reading about. This allows the reader to become more intimate with the writer and the characters while being able to understand the speakers changing thoughts and feelings. This is almost like being inside the mind of the speaker not the writer though. The speech is delivered by a character in a play allowing the imagination of the reader to remain open. Many poets have used some type of dramatic monologue forms in their poetry but none as much or as skilled as the Victorian poet Robert Browning. Even though some believe the works of Robert Browning in fact did not invent the dramatic monologue form and argue that dramatic monologue was used in poetry preceding Browning I believe he set the standard for the form. Robert Browning is considered the master of the dramatic monologue because Browning’s use of dramatic monologue changed post romantic poetry and the dramatic monologue technique. Browning’s dramatic monologue writings were the first to achieve its distinction. I think initially some believed that some dramatic lyrical poems took the form of dramatic monologue it was more of reading the views of the poet and putting the reader into the mind of the actual poet verses putting the reader into the mind of the character. They key to dramatic monologue is the poet is telling a story through the characters of the story and the views of the characters are not the same views the poet would have if it were written in a different form. It wasn’t until realizing that these other poems in fact did not follow the same techniques of Robert Browning’s work that Browning received the recognition for being the inventor of dramatic monologue poetic form. Browning is now considered the master of the dramatic monologue. One of his most recognized dramatic monologue form poems is My Last Duchess. His careful choice in words, skillful technique and ability to leave some information up to the reader to interpret gave him his distinction and effectively named him the master of the dramatic monologue form. The poem My Last Duchess is about a powerful Duke and his beautiful deceased wife. The poem is based during the Renaissance years, in Italy, and revolves around the Duke of Ferrara. The Duke has either a visitor or servant that he is talking to. It is believed that he is planning his next marriage and discussing this with his guest. They pass a portrait of his previous wife that is painted on the wall and he stops to reminisce. The Duke appeared to truly love his duchess and this was evident by having her memory displayed as a portrait on his wall for all to see. The poem begins with him mourning her loss and I believe ends with the justification of her death. The Duke felt she behaved in a manner that was unbecoming of a duchess. The Duke believed that she was a cheater and this caused him embarrassment and anger. He stated she was a kind hearted and a joyful woman, the same qualities that initially attracted the Duke to the Duchess. The Duke stated that her smiling and flirting with other men and the fact that she was not trying to hide what she was doing was unacceptable and shameful. These same qualities would eventually lead to her demise The Duke was furious and Browning’s use of dramatic monologue shows us it’s not exactly what the Duke says to the visitor about his Duchesses death but what he indirectly reveals by not telling the whole story and leaving it up to the reader to decide. The fact that there is a lot not said in this story I believe shows his fury, the way he spoke of her could lead one to believe that he either killed her or had her killed. It seems back in those days it was common for wives to be killed as divorce was not accepted. This is just one small sample of Browning’s work. Browning’s fame today rests mainly on his dramatic monologues, in which the words not only convey setting and action but also reveal the speaker’s character.

The Mask of Ra :: essays research papers

This book sucked, actually I didn't read it, it was to long and I had to little time.456555555555555554gfdgkldf;aslksdd;lfsalf;dsldlf;ksdfBack to essays. Home. Legislative Analysis for the National Minimum Drinking Age Act by Alex Koroknay - Palicz The National Minimum Drinking Age Act is perhaps the law that has the most impact on the day-to-day lives of America's youth since it was signed into law on July 17, 1984. While the 21-year-old drinking age seems imbedded in American society, it is only a recent innovation. Most people do not know that the drinking age was only made a national law in 1984, and only after a determined battle by special interest groups. First and foremost this paper will discuss the history of the drinking age issue in America. Then covering the people involved in this issue. This bill concerned many notable politicians and lobbyists, fighting for it and against it; they left their impact on the future of our nation. These eminent people have gone down in history for the effect they have had on this piece of legislation. Following that this paper will delve into the lengthy process that is required for an idea to become a bill and finally be passed into law. Both houses and several committees exerted their influence on this and helped it on its way. Special interest groups also had a profound effect on this piece of legislation. Finally I will add my own conclusions about the bill and analyze the political process. The history of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act truly started back before Prohibition. The temperance movement used selective prohibition (drinking ages) as a stepping stone approach to their goal of outlawing all alcohol. Finally they did achieve the goal of total Prohibition of alcohol, and in 1919 the 18th amendment to the constitution was ratified. Although do to the seemingly ineffectualness of Prohibition and the change in public opinion, the 18th amendment was in 1933 repealed by the 21st amendment. What followed was a compromise with the lingering temperance movement and the modern drinking age was established. "The political failure of general Prohibition meant that American adults would increasingly focus justifications for alcohol policy less on the perils of drunkenness and more on the tenuous concept that adults can drink properly but youths cannot or should not." (Males 190) From the end of Prohibition until 1984 drinking ages were determined by the states, many of them had the age at 21 while several lowered the age to 18 for the purchase of beer.

Caribbean Studies Notes

As a developing region there are many challenges that we face as a people, be it political or socio-economical. Caribbean studies is a subject offered with the aim of allowing students to better understand the challenges we, as Caribbean people, face in our pursuit of development. The Caribbean is also well known for its rich and diverse cultural practices, and so a student who studies the subject would grow a deeper appreciation for one of the things that defines us most. Our history, of utmost importance in shaping the people we are today, would also be studied in detail. Our resilience as Caribbean people since slavery would show how much we have developed and its importance in the society we make up today. Thus, we would recognize our role in society, not as being just trivial, but as the forces that drive all aspects of life. And thus the importance of preserving our heritage as Caribbean people would be clarified and reinforced. Caribbean Studies would also be a pillar in fostering our youths’ development as they enter into the field of work. The subject serves as a means of equipping young entrepreneurs with the necessary skills needed to make a dollar in these trying economic times. The proper decision making attributes would be instilled in any individual that takes the course. Climate change and global warming, probably two of the most controversial and influential topics, along with other global issues, would also be addressed in Caribbean Studies. Topics such and Hurricanes and earthquakes, keeping in mind the Caribbean’s geographical location, would also equip individuals with the knowledge needed to survive natural disasters. Because we, the youths, are the future, we would also ensure that the devastation created by future disasters are minimized. Caribbean Studies in itself would supply the tools needed to take the Caribbean forward, not only the larger islands but the smaller islands as well. And so it is quite clear that Caribbean Studies is very important, so important that the TAMCC has made it compulsory in any student’s tenure at the institution. The importance of where we originated from and the challenges we face can and should never be underestimated, as it would define our future. And thus because of the aforementioned reasons Caribbean studies is very important. The Caribbean is a region consisting of the Caribbean sea, its islands (most of which enclose the sea) and the surrounding coasts. The region is located southeast of the Gulf of Mexico and North America, east of Central America and to north of South America. Caribbean studies is a course of study in which students will be able to define and locate the Caribbean. They will be able to identify, describe and understand characteristics of the Caribbean society and culture. Students will also be able to assess the impact of historical processes in the region, how societal institutions impact their lives, analyze how the global community and the Caribbean society influence each other. They will be able to analyze the level of development in the Caribbean and how development influences political, economical, social, cultural, environmental and technological features in the Caribbean. When students take this course they will be better able to understand the factors which influence the evolution of Caribbean society and culture, they will be able to analyze issues which are important to the development of the Caribbean region, while developing respect for other cultures and their contributions to the region’s development. Students will also build an awareness of current global issues and how they influence the Caribbean and how the Caribbean affects these global issues.

Fart

During the Harlem Renaissance white art enthusiast aided the development of black artist, by funding these artists. The Blues I’m Playing by Langston Hughes is a short story where a young African American pianist, Oceola Jones, who studies music under the patronage of Dora Ellsworth. Dora is a wealthy, white middle aged, widow with no children. Langston Hughes uses this connection between these characters to express the meaning of the blues. The meaning blues isn’t very clear until the very end of the story, when Oceola and Ms.Ellsworth had their fallout. Ms. Ellsworth is very upset when she learns that Oceola wants to marry Pete Williams. Dora believes that marriage will burden her protegee talents. â€Å"He’ll take all the music out of you† (pg 475). Oceola is playing the piano one last time for Ms. Ellsworth before she leaves to Europe. They begin to argue while Oceola is playing one of Beethoven sonatas. As they continue to argue Osceola’s chang e the style of playing to the Negro Blues. As Osceola plays on Dora ask â€Å"Is this what I spent thousands of dollars to teach you? (pg 475) Oceola replies â€Å"No, this is mine†¦ Listen. †(pg 475) Oceola’s blues began to flourish. Blues that Oceola plays only comes in a time of distress. The fight between Oceola and Ms. Ellsworth force the blues out of Oceola. The Blues in this story represents Oceola real feeling about love, music and art. According to Ralph Ellison â€Å"the blues is an impulse to keep painful details and episodes of a brutal existence alive in one’s aching consciousness†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This definition and Langston Hughes’s interpretation of Blues seem to not conform to each other.Ellison is saying that the artist of the blues has to have a hardship in their past to express it in the blues. In Hughes’s story Oceola really never had anything in her past that made express the blues like she did. It was more that she couldn ’t outlet her frustration of Ms. Ellsworth and her feeling of art to anyone. Oceola bottle up the feeling and lashed out at the end to Ms. Ellsworth in a blues song. Ellison’s and Hughes’s definitions are both good interpretation of what the blues are. By combining Ellison’s and Hughes’s interpretation we have a clear definition of what the blues really are.The Blues is a kind of jazz  that evolved from the music of African-Americans, especially work songs and spirituals. Blues pieces often express worry or depression. The songs help keep remembrance of past hardship experienced and help cope with future problem that may come. The patronage of whites helped the African American art and music explode during the Harlem Renaissance. Langston Hughes uses the connection between Oceola and Ms. Ellsworth to express his interpretation of the Blues. Hughes’s and Ellison’s definitions help explain what the blues actually are.

Porosity and Fluid Saturations essays

Porosity and Fluid Saturations essays Porosity is the best known physical characteristic of an oil reservoir.It determines the volume of oil or gas present,and all recovery computations must be based on knowledge of its value. Porosity of a material is defined as that fraction of the bulk volume of this material that is not occupied by the solid framework of the material.In oil reservoirs,the porosity represents the percentage of the total space that is available for occupancy by eighter liquids or gases.It determines the storage capacity of the sand and is generally expressed on a percentage basis or as a fraction or a decimal. One may distinguish two types of porosity,namely,absolute and effective: Absolute porosity is the percentage of total void space with respect to the bulk volume regardless of the interconnection of the pore voids. Effective porosity is the percentage of interconnected void space with respect to the bulk volume. Grain volume methods:In these methods the consolidated sample is solvent extracted and dried;the bulk volume is determined eighter by the displacement of a liquid which does not penetrate the sample or by saturating the sample and volumetrically displacing a suitable liquid with the saturated sample.The grain volume,or volume of the solid framework of the sample,maybe measured by the volumetric displacement of a gas or a liquid,while the pore volume may be measured by determining the amount of liguid neccesary to saturate the sample. It is obvious that the percentage of porosity may be calculated from such data by use of eighter of the two following relationships: Per cent porosity=100x(bulk volume - grain volume/bulk volume) Per cent porosity=100x(pore volume/bulk volume) Bulk volume determination:The bulk volume of the extracted and dried samples may be determined by volumetric displacement of mercury. ...

Astrology Essays - Astrology, Astrological Signs, Pseudoscience

Astrology Essays - Astrology, Astrological Signs, Pseudoscience Astrology Have you ever wondered what the signs of the Zodiac means? When we turn on the TV it seems we always see an advertisement on horoscope predictions. People call in and get the predictions they have been looking for. When the newspaper first arrives, some people go to the horoscope section first. They base the entire day or entire week on the report they get. It seems that this phenomenon is something all new, or is it? Astrology has been around since ancient times, even dating back to biblical days. Astrology has a long line of history and a bright future. We will attempt to cover that topic as well as the signs and elements of the Zodiac. The signs of the Zodiac include: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. Astrologers also claim the planets play a role in many key factors. How do these things affect us? We will also look at astrology as a science; a way to predict and control your life and your destiny. Although many people refer to astrology as just being superstitious others say the predictions are not worth the paper they are written on. Many men and women have studied astronomy but we will look at Mother Shipton. What caused this woman to focus her life on the study of astrology? Why did she believe astrology could predict ones character or life? Was she just passing on false information or is the universe interrelated and everything is based on these Zodiac signs? Astrology is a phenomenon that dates back to biblical days. There is an ancient legend, that Adam received the doctrines and mysteries of astrology direct from his Maker and thus by foreknowing that the earth was to be destroyed first by fire and afterwards by water. (Thompson 17) Astrology has played an important role in our civilization. Starting with Adam and even being present in todays society. Different civilizations seemed to be practicing astrology independetely. People noticed the Sun in particular had a change on how crops grew. Many people viewed astronomy and astrology as a similar science until the 1500s. People knew by looking at the sun or what the size of the moon was when to plant crops or even when a baby was going to be born. These early astrologers were searching for their place in life. A place where they fit into the universe. They believed that every component of the universe was linked together and everyone had their own place. Every aspect of ones life was based on the planets and the stars. Even behavior was blamed on the position of the sun! Astrology is widely practiced today. Even today most farmers have a Farmers Almanac. This book tells you when to plant your crops, and many people have success. Some wont even think about planting crops without this information. This is a form of astrology, although many people do not realize it. A popular form of astrology is the Physic Friends Network. This is a 900 number you can call in to see what your sign is and how this affects you. The astrologers on the Physic Friends Network always seem to know what has happened in the past and what will occur in the future. Everyone who says they are astrologers obviously are not and its up to us to use our own judgment to decide. When you hear people talk about signs of the Zodiac you often Wonder what does that mean? Ancient astronomers noted that the sun makes a yearly journey across the celestial sphere, part of which is represented in the picture by the blue band. The ancient astronomers associated dates with the constellations in this narrow belt (which is known as the zodiac), assigning to each constellation of stars the dates when the sun was in the same region of the celestial sphere as the constellation. (Encarta 1999) Each Zodiac sign belongs to four different elements: Fire, Air, Earth and Water. Fire is a positive element; this element focuses on changing energy from one form to another. Air is also a positive element that is associated with the spiritual part of life. Earth on the other hand is a

How To Handle Gossip About a Coworker

How To Handle Gossip About a Coworker Gossip happens. And there is always someone in every office who just can’t help but spread it. And of course, it can be fun. But it can be equally hurtful- and can damage careers- not just the person’s being gossiped about. How to take the high road? Here are a few useful strategies to keep your head above the fray.1. Set the tone.You need to be the grownup- especially if you’re a manager or supervisor and will be setting an example for your underlings. But really anyone can do this. If people start speculating wildly about company issues- or worse- gossiping about coworkers, bosses, and peers, you can be the first one to remove yourself and take a step back. This might just show them, by example, the error of their ways- without your having to say anything outright. Don’t let yourself be drawn in. If you can’t leave a conversation, try a subtle change of topic.2. Be open to negativity.People are more likely to gossip about you if you don’t s eem open to hearing their concerns or workplace issues (in the case of being a supervisor) or if you don’t seem open to constructive criticism yourself. Be as transparent as possible when you’re in a position of power. And no matter what your job title, keep the lines of communication open.3. Don’t punish the middleman.If you’re a supervisor and one employee steps forward to address an issue or bring a problem to your attention, don’t punish that person for doing so. That person’s coworkers will likely see this as a sign of your being unapproachable and unfair. Cue: gossip.4. Confront the source.Sometimes it becomes necessary to confront the gossiper, even if the gossip is about you. Most gossipers continue their chattering because they believe there are no negative consequences. But if you let them know you’re on to what they’re up to- and let them know your feelings on the matter- chances are they might stop on their own. If you have to chastise them for their behavior, make your criticism about the issue, not them personally. Don’t just say: you gossiped! that is wrong! Try instead: I’m concerned about the gossip and I’m hoping we can put an end to it. 5. Don’t be self-righteous.It’s all well and good to go high. It’s what you should be doing. But if you start to get really pompous or pious about your own good conduct in the face of rife and rampant gossip, you’re not going to make many allies. Stay casual when dealing with gossip, even when trying to be a good example. It’s not all about you, after all!

Code of Ethics Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Code of Ethics - Research Paper Example This report stresses that discipline is one of the best ways for creating ethical climate within the organization. In case of PAC Resources, this can be observed that the organization considered unconfirmed sales figures in their accounting procedure. It is a completely non ethical procedure for keeping accounts related records. So a disciplinary accounting procedure is required in this regard. Here the organization should take those sales figures which are confirmed by nature and purchase orders of those sales transactions and signed by the concerned end. Management can take strong step in case of ethical violation in case of accounting procedure. This essay makes a conclusion that communication process should be more effective than the earlier days. There should not be any type of communication gap between and employer and an employee. If employees feel free for asking questions to the HR managers then problems can be solved in easier way. Apart from that managers should observe the unethical behavior of employees and identify the reasons behind it. Conducting proper training and developmental program will be helpful in this case. Again if employees can get reward and benefit for their honesty and efficiency then also unethical behavior can be reduced by the end of management. HR managers should act with integrity for the prospect of business. They should at first anticipate the level of expectation of the different related parties from the end of organization and according to that expectation code of ethics should be designed and framed.

Injustice of the Copyright Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Injustice of the Copyright Law - Essay Example Users continued to break the law. Yet, these users that violated the law and placed themselves at threat of prosecution and fines were the true citizens. The illegal peer-to-peer services and the citizens that used them were instrumental in redefining the music industry for the benefit of both the consumer and the artist. The importance of the copyright law in reference to audio reproduction has been a direct result of the available technology. In the 1980s the cassette player was the main device available for music reproduction. Successive reproductions decreased the recording quality and manufactures and distributors were able to maintain a competitive edge with respect to product quality. In addition, there were no channels for trading copies and availability was limited to physical contact with the media. This generally restricted the ability to copy a tape to a limited circle of friends. Large scale counterfeit operations were easier to intercept in the marketing stream and were generally highly visible to law enforcement (Kim, 2004). Enforcement of the law was usually a matter of the priorities set by state agencies. In the case of the flourishing overseas bootleg markets, little enforcement was available. However, with the advent of the Internet, peer-to-peer networks, and the Internet the abi lity to trade and reproduce music has expanded exponentially. Digital MP3 copies do not degrade in quality, which removes the original manufacturers competitive edge. There is no need for physical contact of the media and there are no restrictions on the availability as the source can be anywhere in the world and totally anonymous. Historically, reproduction of copyrighted material has been exempted from coverage by the 'Fair and Private Use' clauses of the copyright laws. Fair use allows for the reproduction for certain academic, review, and informational purposes without the consent of the copyright holder. Private use allows for reproduction for personal use and no commercial gain. However, The United States copyright laws were amended in 1992 with the addition of Chapter 10 to the Audio Home Recording Act. This amendment specifically addressed the use of digital audio recording and playback devices and media. The courts have been clear as to the copyright infringement of the reproduction of MP3 audio on computing devices. To be considered a digital audio recording device, the equipment must be, "...designed or marketed for the primary purpose of, and that is capable of, making a digital audio copied recording for private use" (US Code collection, n.d.). Thus, the home computer and hard drive were not exempt ed from the copyright laws as an MP3 player or dictation machine may be. With the rapid onset of advancing technologies and the proliferation of peer-to-peer networking in the late 1990s, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) became more pro-active in their efforts to insure the copyright laws were being enforced. The RIAA that represented the recording industry insisted, "...this theft has hurt the music community, with thousands of layoffs, songwriters out of work and new artists having a harder time getting signed and breaking into the business" (Piracy: Online and on the street, n.d.). The trade group asserted that it was losing billions of dollars to services such as Napster, WinMX, Morpheus, and

Global War on Drugs Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Global War on Drugs - Essay Example Global War on Drugs The drug prohibition laws prohibit, except under special circumstances and licenses the production, possession and distribution of substances that are recognized as drugs. This limits the circulation of anything that is considered a drug. By doing so they ensure that the country remains the drug-free zone that it was intended to be. One such person who has been very vocal and active in this issue is Richard Davenport-Hines. He is a historian and biographer who has accomplished so much in his time. He has spoken vocally against the issue of drugs and their use. He has constantly criticized the United States government of not doing all that it should in relation to the drug issue. The United States government in response to the issue of drug use and trafficking has created several sustainable policies. These policies will enable the government to effectively and efficiently deal with the issue. The United States categorically emphasize that drug use is the administering of any drug on an individual contrary to their intended use. The campaign that was started to discourage drug use in the states was criticized by Richard in his book. He propagated that the states and the policies that they were employing were not necessarily the way forward. The government devised some ways for example arrest and sentencing to deal with the drug barons and users. They also created drug prohibition laws that were to deal with the drug trade. In the book: The Pursuit of Oblivion, A Global History of Narcotics there are some issues addressed against the United States policies. The arguments state that the government does not deal effectively with the issue of arrests. He goes ahead to explain that there is always a high percentage of illegal drugs on the streets. The percentage could be as high as 100%. During the arrests and interception stage only a small percentage of the drugs are intercepted. The book’s author notes that by going with such statistics the drug war will never be won. If only 20% of the drugs are intercepted, the remainder that is still out can still keep the drug business afloat. This will obviously ensure that their profits continue soaring despite the drug intercepts (Gerber 31). He sees the drug policy as a sho w of might and the power between the interested stakeholders. The United States government is using the drug issue as a step stone to flex its muscles on other nations and its own citizens. He ponders why despite all the arrests and sentencing both local and international, drugs are still getting a way to the streets. He wonders when the government will internalize the urgent need to arrest the never known barons instead of the hired hirelings who sell the drug in small doses on the street The state has long been accused of using its military might in all the wrong ways. He deems the policy as an excuse to employ over exaggerated operations by the military. They use so much of the tax payers’ money yet they have little to show on the undertaken drug operations that they conduct (Gerber 37). The government is also accused by both citizens and the author of the text of being very hypocritical in the drug war. The government is noticed to be employing double standards in the sen se that it allows the pharmaceutical companies to continue advertizing their drugs. He considers this kind of advertizing as an attraction to drugs. This tempts users to use them. He suggests that companies should have some regulations in relation to advertising. In the television drama The Wire, the actors have carefully acted their thoughts on the policy of drug use in the states. The series in one of their episodes showed that the investigators tasked with the responsibility of investigating drugs and their use as being very incapable. It

Answering the given questions Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Answering the given questions - Assignment Example Venezuela mainly adopted capital controls so as to protect its domestic economy from the volatile or unpredictable capital movements. The sole aim of doing so was to allow full domestic employment and maximizing of social welfare, saving of foreign exchange  and keeping both international and domestic finances under the national control. Generally, the motivations at the back capital controls often ranged from the rising revenues, buying time for managing a speculative aggression, and the international monetary transformation.   On the other hand, controls were adopted in Venezuela due to its provision of a substitute for insufficient solvency supervision regarding banks and all the other financial firms, reduction of the amount of unstable temporary foreign credits with regards to the prevailing economy, and the aspect of limitation with regards to international financier’s power (Knight & Satchell, 2007).   From the Venezuela’s case, there can be a cognitive distinction between the black and gray market. Black market is often not a physical region or place, but is rather a fiscal activity whereby goods and/or services are transacted illegally. On the other hand, gray market refers to a commodity trade through the distribution channels in which, as much as they can be legal, they are unofficial, unintended, or unauthorized by the primary manufacturer (Knight & Satchell, 2007).  The Santiago’s financial analysis is based on its choices and can be summarized in a simple manner. The entire financial mishap was due to the attempt of trying to meet the U.S Dollar obligation. This was after a transaction that saw the disbursement of $30000 worth products from a U.S based vendor to a specific customer who went to the extent of reselling it. He then opted for a dollar exchange through a gray market whereby there was an involvement in a deposit of up to 20%. This deal was hence s ealed after two business days. The un-official gray market

Human Behavior and the Enviroment Unit 2 Discussion Research Paper

Human Behavior and the Enviroment Unit 2 Discussion - Research Paper Example Most women are ignorant on the significance of an excellent and regular prenatal care (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2007). They do not make arrangements, and if they do, they ignore them. This is common with girls who have no experience in childbirth. Scarcity of qualified doctors has led to women being put on hold due to extensive waiting lists (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2007). In addition, when mothers get a chance to visit, they find long lines at the clinics. This frustrates the pregnant women who have other places to be. Prenatal care for the mother and the child lessens a lot of threats that could occur during delivery, and after. At a prenatal clinic, a mother will be directed on the diet, for example, intake of folic acid condenses prospects of abnormalities. In addition, the right diet will guarantee the child grows at the normal, healthy rate. The public need to be aware of the significance of prenatal care, thus health specialist, can use the following ways. Firstly, they could initiate campaigns to create awareness all over the country, and advertise it thoroughly. Secondly, experts should learn to treat mothers with trust and comfort, since some women fear medical procedures. Lastly, the professionals can join forces with film makers, and authors to film documentaries, and publish books on pregnant

Individual Reflection on Group Experience Essay

Individual Reflection on Group Experience - Essay Example As a result of a fact acceptance of the single mode of connectivity which has developed on the lines of internet powered virtual platform in various corners of the world, the world has been transformed into a single connected global entity. This has increasingly paved the way for easy synchronization of various trends related to globalization that are emerging from the different corners of the world. In discussing the trends of globalization, it has to be considered that in most cases, the trends originate from the developed countries and slowly gets diffused in the emerging economies. Because of this shift in trend, related to globalization, there is a continuous emergence of various business opportunities. Most of these business opportunities are highly innovative in nature, while some are routinely traditional in nature. However, the evolution of the new business opportunities simply represents the fact that various companies around the world will be trying to gain advantage of th e opportunity that is evolving in these new markets. So, automatically, this will fuel an increase in competition. Now, in order to gain an edge in the marketplace, with regards to the locally as well as internationally promoted competition, the organizations needs to have a very cost efficient structure of management. When an organization embraces a lean structure for employee management, it brings in the concept of getting more work done from the employees of the organization. Also, it has to be considered that in today’s highly connected global environment, employees of an organization are no longer bounded to their respective cubicles or workstations on a timely manner. Rather the concepts of flexi timing, work from home enables employees to stay connected to their workplaces through the virtual world on a minute and hour basis. However, despite organization and lifestyle based adjustments in the society, companies work in a structured and layered formation, when it comes to daily activities. Organizations have various divisions and groups of people who handle diversified job related functionalities for the organization, either being physically present or being virtually present. Often these groups needs to be directed and made to work in perfect synchronization with each other under the able leadership of a efficient team manager or team lead. While a team leader or a senior manager managing the group provides directional support, it is the members of the team whose seamless collaboration and cooperation with each other helps an organization of varying dimension to achieve its day to day objectives as well as short and long term goals. It can be stated in a very simple manner, that group work either in the physical or in the virtual mode promotes an environment where members of a group can effectively learn, collaborate and communicate in a very smooth manner. Effective and successful group work also helps in a great way in developing the morale of the employees of an organization which promotes an environment of physical as well as virtual workplace. In this particular case, the focus is on analyzing as well as studying the effectiveness of group work among a collective group of students who were made to work in a group format for the purpose of handling of assignments of an academic nature. Evolution of the group over the term From the theoretical point of view,

Human Behavior and the Enviroment Unit 2 Discussion Research Paper

Human Behavior and the Enviroment Unit 2 Discussion - Research Paper Example Most women are ignorant on the significance of an excellent and regular prenatal care (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2007). They do not make arrangements, and if they do, they ignore them. This is common with girls who have no experience in childbirth. Scarcity of qualified doctors has led to women being put on hold due to extensive waiting lists (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2007). In addition, when mothers get a chance to visit, they find long lines at the clinics. This frustrates the pregnant women who have other places to be. Prenatal care for the mother and the child lessens a lot of threats that could occur during delivery, and after. At a prenatal clinic, a mother will be directed on the diet, for example, intake of folic acid condenses prospects of abnormalities. In addition, the right diet will guarantee the child grows at the normal, healthy rate. The public need to be aware of the significance of prenatal care, thus health specialist, can use the following ways. Firstly, they could initiate campaigns to create awareness all over the country, and advertise it thoroughly. Secondly, experts should learn to treat mothers with trust and comfort, since some women fear medical procedures. Lastly, the professionals can join forces with film makers, and authors to film documentaries, and publish books on pregnant

Features of smart phone Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Features of smart phone - Research Paper Example Furthermore, a majority of the contemporary smart phones exhibit 3G capabilities (Albright, 25). To this end, 3G is an acronym of third generation which implies new communication standards, procedures and devices that will enhance the quality and speed of services available on the go. In this regard, 4G technology is soon being incorporated within smartphone devices. This is projected to increase the benefits of smart phones. To this end, the popularity of smart phones has increased significantly over the years to the extent that it is viewed as a lifestyle trend to own one. Its popularity stems from the multiple benefits that have made the life of modern human beings much better. One of the benefits of a smartphone is that it keeps the user organised. Evidently, the smartphone handsets have inbuilt features such as contact lists, electronic diaries, calendar, note pad, voice recorder and automatic reminders that basically act as personal organisers. To this end, the smartphone is ve ry convenient among professionals in white collar jobs since they can easily organize their daily schedules pertaining to issues such as meetings, appointments, conferences, among others. The benefits of a Smartphone also extend to its similarity in functions to that of a desktop computer. Foremost, the smartphone has a QWERTY keypad that is similar to the computer keyboard. Moreover, the keypad comes in hardware version with physical keys that can be easily be typed as well as a software version that is evident on touch screens such as I-phones. Moreover, the smartphone exhibits capability of browsing entire websites that contain high amount of data. In addition, there are also smart phones applications similar to Microsoft office which allows the creation and editing of documents. To this end, persons owning smart phones do not necessarily need to own a desktop computer. The smart phones also have GPS capability (Ga?rtner, William, and Michael, 526). Evidently, the GPS is suitable whenever a person needs to locate an area that is unfamiliar or new to a person. To this end, whenever a person is travelling to places that are unknown, it is highly convenient for him or her to activate the GPS and find the place (Karimi, 19). The smartphone hence assists in making the tour navigable. Furthermore, the GPS capability saves the user the inconvenience of carrying a map whenever travelling. In organizations smart phones enable organizational investment in the employee. According to Mohammad and Syed the solutions offered by smart phones enable work responsibilities to be more desirable (9). This is through the reduction of time spent by an individual on repetitive or menial tasks. Furthermore, the user can also reference flash presentations, eBooks, audiovisual training material, as well as carrying instructional manuals on storage cards with high capacity (Ilyas and Syed, 10). The smart phone also exhibits the benefit of customer relationship management (CRM) in org anizations (Ilyas and Syed, 10). This is through CRM applications that assist in the streamlining of supply chain operation. Evidently, the applications enable workers in an organization to track inventory levels and features, automate schedules and features. These consequently minimize customer visits and reduce downtime. Hospitality applications incorporated in smart phones have been beneficial to people working in the hotel and hospitality industry. These are through applications for curb side check-in

The United States should regulate trade with foreign countries Essay Example for Free

The United States should regulate trade with foreign countries Essay Trade across the boarders is very important as; over the years, it has enhanced industrialization in most and improved the balance of payment in those countries. For this foreign trade to occur smoothly across these nations there needs to be regulations which govern the types of services and products to be sold and the conduct of the personnel involved. â€Å"Globalization therefore requires careful steering and improvement on the policy changes (Bhagwati 32). † Despite the regulations in place, foreign trade has a lot of benefits to individual countries and the United States is not an exception. Some of the benefits of foreign trade include: †¢ Specialization Countries are endowed with a variety of resources. This may be in the form of very skilled labor, precious minerals, good climate, and excellent infrastructure among other things. Since countries cannot produce all the goods they need, they will maximize their efforts in producing those goods that are bound to bring in more returns and will import the rest of the commodities that they have not produced. By doing this the country will develop further and will continually improve its balance of payments. Such trade also exposes the consumers to a variety of goods as they have options from different countries to choose from. Specialization is also linked with comparative advantage. Comparative advantage refers to channeling resources to the production of the commodities that will yield more return. Countries will therefore utilize resources in areas where they know they can get more returns. Other than concentrating on particular industries, it is important for countries to produce a variety of products because if they focus on the production of one commodity, when that particular industry is affected, the country will also be affected. â€Å"This may be due to changes in market forces caused by recession or the enactment of new trading policies (Baker A. 8). † The imports and exports of a country and the way they are priced therefore greatly determine how the country will progress especially. †¢ Competition Competition is important for businesses to grow as they are motivated to produce more and better commodities at lower prices. â€Å"Globalization reduces trade barriers thus encouraging the exchange of goods and job creation (January 32). † For competition to be effective it will depend on natural resources, the types of equipment and technology a country has and skilled laborers to produce the products. Combination of these factors definitely increases the specialty of industries. †¢ Economies of scale A country will gain more if it directs its resources to the most efficient industries. This will aid a country to improve it’s economies of scale by producing more output. â€Å"Openness to international trade contributes to economic growth (Boudreaux, 17). † Some companies therefore require a lot of research or a lot of funds and that is why they sometimes their competitive nature will be limited. Sometimes it is difficult to move resources from one industry to another especially when the industries have nothing in common. Knowledge-Intensive Products Between the years 1986-2001, the U. S benefited a lot from exporting manufactured products to other countries. This was because they have experts who designed better advanced products and manufacturing processes. The cost of marketing the products was minimized because they were unique products being brought into the market and people were eager to use them. Moreover, the workforce was well educated and trained. Looking at the benefits of international trade, we see that the United States as well as other countries have gained and that is why these business transactions need to be enhanced. Creating a proper business environment requires the enactment of policies that will ensure that the benefits accrued are maximized and the risks minimized. The U. S needs to regulate foreign trade for a number of reasons. ? Protection of local industries The U. S needs to protect the domestic industries which play a major role in the growth of the economy by creating trade regulations. This is because there is a need of increasing employment in certain industries which importation of products is hindering or being able to control the prices of goods and services. â€Å"When trade is not regulated by putting certain measures that limit the importation of certain commodities, importation will increase because the consumers will demand more foreign goods as opposed to buying the locally manufactured products and this will lead to deficits in the balance of payments (Smick 34). † ? Enhancing trade policies The U. S should regulate foreign trade because through processes like licensing the goods and custom regulations, the country through the customs authority. The customs Authority is in charge of enacting the policies that have been passed by the state on trade by imposing customs duties, trade restrictions and taxes agreed on so that they govern trade between the U. S and other countries. â€Å"The U. S customs service is already doing a good job in helping exporters because they give them information on duty rates, custom regulations and policies as used by the U. S and foreign countries and through its website, it has created an interactive forum where people are more knowledgeable about international trade and processes (Baker C. 111). † In doing so, the customs authority is able to control the goods that are entering the country therefore they make sure that they gain from all goods entering they country as this minimizes the evasion of paying taxes (Stein 71). This also limits the entry of illegal products entering the country for example, illegal drugs that can be harmful to the citizens. ? Proper planning Regulating trade with foreign countries will enable the Federal State to plan its activities better. This will help in the budgeting process so that they can forecast better on the market trend and adjust policies so that the country is not adversely affected by the global marketing changes. â€Å"This will enable them to distribute resources equally and channel resources to the sectors where they know they will generate more income (Mann 75). † This will also make the people in charge of the processes more accountable because in case of any faults, they will be held responsible for the actions they undertook. ? Technological enhancement Regulating trade is important because it enhances the technological innovations and inventions. Some countries can take advantage when there are no regulations in place that inhibit the usage of certain creations and design to create similar or even better commodities thus enhancing the competition in markets which they mostly dominated. The U. S therefore needs to regulate the trade as it helps in building these skills that propel the countries economy to greater heights. ? National Security Regulating foreign trade enhances national security because the state limits the chances of other countries controlling business activities in that country therefore, they can not directly influence the prices of commodities. This is especially related with the government owned businesses which need to be protected from being influenced by foreign companies such that they may decide to engage in business agreements for example partnerships and in case the state business is faced with financial difficulties or other risks, it has a higher risk of being taken over by the foreign company. National security is also enhanced by the use of Intellectual property rights as they enable the business to gain competitive advantage. â€Å"Products that are protected by patents or trade marks mean that they cannot be sold in countries that infringe the trademarks or patents and this helps in enabling fair trade (Hiebert 47). † The U. S should be able to benefit from the many experts it has in various fields. It needs to be in a position where they can minimize foreign governments from contacting them so that they share the secrets. For instance if people who produce military products are contacted by other governments and given better rewards, then they can easily go to those countries and develop war weapons which can be used against the country. That is why it is important to regulate trade with foreign countries. International trade is not possible without the use of foreign currency (Baker C. 20). The country is able to see how their products are priced against other currencies and continually monitors its cash reserves and how it spends its money so that the US dollar is stable. This is helpful especially at this harsh economic period when the country is trying to minimize on importation of commodities so as stabilize the currency. ? Environmental Protection Globalization and advancements in technology have contributed to the emerging issues of environmental pollution and its effects on the people. There is therefore the need to ensure that these cases are minimized and this will happen if the state commits itself to preventing harmful substances which might include chemical products that when used in the industries emit harmful substances into the environment as well as technologies from entering the country (Carlarne 30). The internet has enhanced international trade to the next level by making it easier and faster to make business transactions and trade. However, it is contributing to various cyber crimes where innocent people are exploited in the name of fake businesses in the U. S and people lying. Though there are measurers to make such processes legitimate, for example, creating rules on the use of digital signatures and agreements but still more needs to be done as people are losing a lot of money in such dealings and the people undertaking such trade crimes cannot be tracked. ? Reducing trade conflict When two or more organizations engage in constructive ventures, conflicts are bound to happen. â€Å"If there are no proper mechanisms to address the problems and the issues keep on escalating, then a lot of money which would otherwise be used on important ventures will be used to settle legal claims (Perdikis et al. 1). † The U. S since it deals with many countries in almost every industry; they have a greater chance of facing numerous claims. â€Å"They therefore invest a lot of money in hiring legal advisors and in compensations (Brown, Crowley, Mcclulloch Nakajima 2). † They need to regulate their trade so that the agreements are stricter but which gives them room to minimize the costs, resources, time and energy used in legal issues. There are many international bodies that are governing foreign trade in various aspects for instance, the General Agreement of Tariffs and Trade (GATT) which laid the policies that are now used by the World Trade Organization (WTO), plus different trading blocks in various regions and continents. Though they set the rules to be used by all involved countries, they sometimes do not always tackle the problems that are faced by individual countries face that is why the U. S needs to put their own trade policies as well as used those set by such bodies to make sure that their economy is well protected. ? Minimizing corruption There also cases where foreign trade official at the customs are being bribed so that they can allow the entry if certain goods into the country. The U. S government has helped to solve the issue by placing anti-money laundering laws and also corruption laws to prevent foreign government officials from being bribed so that they can either conduct business within the country or lighten their policies so that they can benefit (Braithwaite Drahos 162). â€Å"Such practices sometimes go undetected and finally when they are discovered, they create a bad image for the country (Stiglitz 52). † The state needs to tighten such measures so as to promote fair business practices and healthy competition. Some home based companies are not very keen on the industrial Total Quality Management standards (TQM) in place. Sometimes they overlook regulations so that they can produce more output and this has led to the exportation of substandard products. Trade regulations need to be enforced so that such companies engage in the production of quality products. Conclusion Regulation of foreign trade has enabled the United States to manage risks that are associated with foreign trade as well as curb unethical behavior in this business. More still needs to be done so that they safe guard the local business from being put at risk of being shut down. The regulations should be published in state journals and be accessible through the internet so that companies both local and foreign are aware of the policies in place.The regulations should also be found in the school curriculum ass the students and young professionals will be sensitized at an early age. Works Cited Baker, J. C. Financing International Trade. Greenwood Publishing Group, Westport: Praeger, 2003. Baker, S. A. An Introduction to International Economics. Orlando, Fl: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Publishers, 1990 Bhagwati, J. In Defense of Globalization, New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2004 Braithwaite, J. Drahos, P. Global business regulation, Cambridge University Press, 2000 p. 162 Boudreaux, D. J. Globalization. Westport, CT: Greenwood Publishing Group, Inc, 2008 Brown, C. P. , Crowley M. A. , Mcclulloch R. Nakajima D. J. â€Å"The U. S. Trade Deficit: Made in China? † Economic Perspectives, 29 (2005): 2 Carlarne, C. â€Å"Form the USA with Love: Sharing Home-Grown Hormones, GMOs, and Clones with Reluctant Europe. † Environmental Law, 37 (2007): 30. Hiebert, T. H. Parallel Importation in U. S. Trademark Law. Greenwood Press, 1994. January, Brendan. Globalize It, Brookfield, CT: Twenty First Century Books, 2003 Mann, C. M. Is the U. S. Trade Deficit Sustainable? Institute for International Economics, 1999. Perdikis, N. , Read, R. International Economics Study Group. The WTO and the regulation of international trade: recent trade disputes between the European Union and the United States, Edward Elgar Publishing, 2005 Smick, D. M. The World Is Curved-Hidden Dangers to the Global Economy, New York, NY: The Penguin Group, 2008 p. 34 Snyder F. G. Regional and global regulation of international trade, Hart Publishing, 2002 Stein, S. â€Å"Trade out of Whack: Making Sense of the Trade Deficit. † Policy Review, 128 (2004):

The Mauritian Economy Defied Predictions Of James Meade

The Mauritian Economy Defied Predictions Of James Meade Few Sub-Saharan African countries have managed to achieve high standards of living over the past two decades. Mauritius has been a notable exception. With no natural resources, a small domestic market and vulnerability to external shocks, Mauritius exhibited a series of characteristics very typical to the rest of Africa namely a mono-crop economy, exposure to terms of trade shocks, high population growth rate, ethnic tensions exacerbated by high income and wealth inequality. Defying the predictions of Nobel Prize recipient James Meade, who famously predicted poor development prospects for Mauritius back in 1961 due to its vulnerabilities to both weather and price shocks and lack of job opportunities outside the sugar sector, Mauritius has transformed itself from a poor sugar economy into a country with one of the highest per capita incomes among African countries. Today, the small island nation is one of Africas most prosperous and stable economies and is considered an economic success story. For arguments sake, between 1977 and 2009, real GDP in Mauritius grew on average by 5.1 percent annually, compared with 3.2 percent for sub-Saharan Africa. 3.1 The Mauritian Economy Mauritius is a small island developing state with limited resources and a remote geographical location considered unfavourable. Since its independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low-income mono crop economy to a middle-income relatively diversified export-oriented economy. In the early 1960s, Mauritius embarked on a program of diversification and adopted import substitution policies with the initial emphasis on tax exemptions, long-term loans at favorable rates and protective import duties and quotas. The aim was mainly to combat unemployment, raise standard of living and alleviate poverty. However, import substitution did not bring the benefits expected owing to the small size of the domestic market, limited resource endowments and technical know-how. The enterprises were unable to benefit from economies of scale given the small size of the local market. Furthermore, import substitution policies failed to address unemployment, which reached 20% in the late 60s. In the early 1970s, Mauritius switched to an outward-looking export-oriented strategy. The establishment of the Export Processing Zone scheme, designed to encourage the setting up of labour intensive export oriented manufacturing enterprises, aimed at helping to dampen the growing problem of unemployment, as well as to open up further the economy and benefit from the preferential access to the European markets under the different Lomà © Conventions (and now the Cotonou Agreement). The authorities prudent management of the economy and their outward-oriented policies placed Mauritius on a sustained growth path. Launched with the start-up capital of the sugar sector, the EPZ sector has concentrated mostly on textile and textile-related products. Mauritius seeks to serve as a bridge from Asia to Africa, Europe and the United States: in the 1980s, companies from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore settled in the countrys economic processing zones (EPZs), and were joined in 2007 and 2008 by companies from mainland China. For the past three decades, the industry have attracted FDI from various countries, created new employment opportunities and strengthened the manufacturing base of the economy. The tourism sector also emerged as a serious economic pillar by contributing to foreign exchange earnings of the country and by being an important generator of employment. A range of investment incentives were provided to boost the development of the tourism sector in terms of fiscal incentives and financial support for hotel development and management services. The labour-intensive export-oriented growth strategy was therefore powered by three main economic sectors, namely sugar, textile products and tourism. The diversification strategy was further expanded in the 1990s with the consolidation of the financial services sector into commercial banking, insurance and global business. In recent years, information and communication technology (ICT), in particular business process outsourcing, and the seafood hub have emerged as important sectors of the economy. From 1991 to 2010, the economy enjoyed an average annual real growth of 4.9%. To further diversify the economic base of the island, the government is actively encouraging development in the following sectors: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ the land-based oceanic industry; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ hospitality and property development; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ the healthcare and biomedical industry; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ agro-processing and biotechnology; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ the knowledge industry; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ renewable energy. Figure 1: Sectorial Breakdown of the Mauritian economy, 2009 Mauritius is a fairly well diversified export oriented economy with agriculture, textile, tourism and financial services as leading sectors. However, a gradual shift from agriculture to the service sectors has been observed. Today, the services sector makes the largest contribution towards GDP and towards total employment. The share of the agricultural, hunting, forestry and fishing sector in GDP which was 6.1% in 1999 went down to 4.3% in 2009. The manufacturing sector also experienced a fall, from 23.9% in 1999 to 19.5% in 2009. On the other hand, Hotels and restaurants, a major component of the Tourism sector, witnessed a rise from 6.9% to 7.3% during the same period. Albeit the successful growth records, there is growing concerns as regards competitiveness and sustainability of growth. The traditional Mauritian labor-intensive exports is being challenged by new competitors. Productivity is not increasing fast enough to keep pace with wages that have been rising as a result of near full employment, thus eroding competitiveness. Government policies are aiming at diversifying towards more capital-intensive production and higher value added goods. The acceleration of the growth rate in the 1980s is the result of the macroeconomic reforms in response to protracted balance of payments and fiscal troubles. Following the reforms, Mauritius experienced steady growth, low inflation, and increased employment. GDP per capita, meanwhile, increased approximately seven-fold between 1976 and 2008, from less than $1,000 to nearly $7,000 (figure 2). At the same time, consumer price inflation in Mauritius has remained in the low single digits through the 1990s and 2000s (figure 3). The steady growth path of the early years of the period under review was due to the sugar boom of the early 1970s and the newly established EPZ attracting foreign investment. During that period, GDP grew at an average of 9% per year. However, the boom was short lived with sugar prices falling by 50% and the first oil shock of 1973-74 starting to impact on isolated Mauritian exporters and the small but promising tourism industry. Year 1979 saw the devaluation of the exchange rate by 30%, a rise in interest rate, reduction in food subsidies and wage increases held below inflation. Between 1979 and March 1980, the island was hit by cyclones, sugar production tumbled and GDP fell by 9%. The only encouraging factor during that period was a fall in inflation. The highest rate of inflation Mauritius witnessed since its independence was in October 1980 at 42%. This was due to the deteriorating economic situation following increasing oil prices in the late 1970s coupled with adverse weather conditions damaging food crops. In the same period, the island adopted its first Structural Adjustment Programme and the rupee was devalued by 22.9 % in October 1979. The direct impact of the devaluation was seen on import prices which sky rocketed. Macroeconomic policies have contributed to containing inflation. On a calendar-year basis, inflation (measured by changes in consumer prices) was maintained at under 6.5% per year till 2006, when it rose to 8.9%. The main contributors to this increase include higher oil prices (resulting from increase in world prices and the introduction of the Automatic Pricing Mechanism, higher prices of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes (resulting from the increase in excise duties) and of some other products (resulting from the reduction of subsidies for rice, flour, and bread), increase in freight costs and depreciation of the Mauritian rupee. During 2007, inflation increased further to reach 10.7% in June (on a yearly basis), the highest in over a decade. According to the BOM, this was due to the second-round effects of high oil and commodity prices, the depreciation of the Rupee, and the increase in excise duties. 3.2 Trade Performance Trade remains an important feature of the Mauritian economy in light of the fact that it has a small domestic market and limited natural resources namely land. The island is known to have been running merchandise trade deficit which has been offset at times by surpluses on the services account. The bulk of Mauritian merchandise exports (namely 70% of the total value) is accountable to manufacturing products. Though decreasing in share, clothing remains the main manufactured export (from 57% in 2001 to 36% in recent years). Sugar has remained the main agricultural export, contributing around 16% to total merchandise trade. Imports as well continued to be dominated by manufactured goods. Leading imports include machinery and transport equipment, radio/television transmission apparatus, textile and chemicals. The share of textiles has decreased from 20% in 2001 to 7% in recent years. Nevertheless, textiles remain an important import item. The European Union is the major destination for most of the Mauritian export. The bulk of Mauritian sugar and a large share of its textiles and clothing are destined to the EU. The UK remains the major single destination followed by France and the US. On import grounds, the EU supplies around one third of the total value of Mauritius merchandise imports. Other major suppliers include China, South Africa, France, India and Germany. The share of Middle East countries (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates) has considerably increased, reflecting mainly the increase of oil prices. 3.3 Trade Openness Mauritius is an active participant of the multilateral trading system and member of various economic groupings and trade agreements. Participation in regional agreements is crucial for a small island country like Mauritius for the following reasons: Allows the exploitation of its comparative advantages and economies of scale. Improves the islands competitive edge. Allows the diversification of its range of exports. Facilitates its integration into the world economy. However, challenges remains for Mauritius has to ensure consistency between the national reform agenda and participation in a multitude of trade agreements, with different geographical coverage, liberalization agenda, provisions and goals. To Sachs and Warner, the key determinants to a countrys long-run growth is its trade policies. In effect, in the 1970s and 1980s, Mauritius had a fairly protected economy; the average rate of protection being high and dispersed. This is depicted by the rather poor openness ration of the early years of the period under review. When the country started to open to the world, a net amelioration of the ratio was noted. 3.4 Exposure to external shocks and policy responses An integral part of economic policies in Mauritius, trade policies are aimed at improving the living standards of the population and seeking to achieve full employment. This objective is projected to be achieved through the implementation of sound macroeconomic policies, investment in public infrastructures, easing the doing business environment and further opening up the economy. Trade policies have, for over two decades, shaped the countrys industrial development and contributed towards sustained growth. Mauritius was able to join in the ranks of the newly industrialised economies. 3.4.1 Agricultural sector Today, agriculture remains an important sector given its share in exports and revolves mainly around sugar. However, the ever decreasing sugar prices have seen the implementation of actions to restructure the sector and ensure its long-term viability. Those actions seek to promote alternative goods relating to cane production. In fact, much of the sugar cane production in Mauritius has been exported to the EU under the preferential terms of the ACP-EU Sugar Protocol. ACP sugar-producing countries were granted preferred access to the EU market, with annual quotas and guaranteed prices. As part of the transition to the new regime defined by the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs), ACP countries experienced a decline in their guaranteed minimum price for sugar to the EU. Over four years to 2009, the price fell by 36 per cent. Mauritius is the most affected by the falling price paid by the EU for sugar. At 507 000 tonnes, Mauritius enjoyed the largest quota under the Sugar Protocol. Sugar exports to the EU alone contributed 17 per cent of the countrys foreign exchange earnings and up to 4.5 per cent of gross domestic product. The losses associated with the new regime are expected to have a significant impact on Mauritius, particularly given that the revenue that had been procured from the Sugar Protocol was important for stimulating economic development, promoting diversification and supporting services throughout the country. It is likely that the economy will go through structural change as the agricultural sector moves away from its almost exclusive dependence on sugar and becomes more diversified. The Multi-Annual Adaptation Strategy (2006-2015) is the Government of Mauritiuss response to the changes in the Sugar Protocol, to aid in the adaptation process and take advantage of the package of accompanying measures offered by the EU to ease the transition to the new trading regime. It seeks to protect the long-term viability and sustainability of the sugar industry and ensure that it can continue to make an important economic and social contribution to Mauritius. There are several elements associated with the MAAS designed to help the industry and its workers adapt to the new trading reality and safeguard a future for the sector. Key among these are a focus on ways to (i) reduce costs of production (through factory closures, centralization, and restructuring of the workforce), (ii) generate additional revenue (such as through increasing value added), (iii) efficiently use by-products (such as for producing renewable energy) and (iv) contribute to poverty alleviation (by establishing voluntary retirement and re-training programmes). By pursuing these policies, the Government hopes to transform the sugar industry into an industry that moves away from producing raw sugar towards producing several types of sugar (raw, special, industrial and white), and also produces electricity from bagasse and ethanol from molasses. Once implemented, the policy should result in higher-value products, sufficient production to meet all of Mauritiuss trade commitments, and reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels by increasing the contribution from sugar cane to national electricity production and increasing the production of ethanol. 3.4.2 Manufacturing sector The development of textile and clothing, the main industry, was favoured in the past by preferences under the Multifibre Arrangement (MFA), and preferential access to key markets such as the EC and the United States. Mauritius textiles and clothing industry has been facing many challenges, such as multilateral liberalization, which has resulted in erosion of trade preferences; rising production costs in Mauritius; and the emergence of low-cost producing countries. In anticipation of the multilateral liberalization of the industry in January 2005, most of the major Hong-Kong-owned enterprises (which dominated the industry in Mauritius) ceased operation: between 2001-06, employment in the industry was reduced by 27,000 jobs. This explains the poor performance of both exports and growth of the EPZ subsector. Several steps have been taken to sustain development of the textile and clothing including restructuring of enterprises; promotion of vertical integration to increase value added, as well as high value products; upgrading skills; improving access to finance; and facilitating business operations. With the phase out of the Multi Fibre Arrangement, Mauritius has to compete with major textiles producers like China. The new LDC scheme proposed by the US to extend the AGOA type benefits to all LDCs pose a major threat to Mauritian exports to the US, particularly for garments. With the application of a coefficient of 8 in a Swiss formula to reduce tariffs in the context of the Doha Development Agenda, the preference margin for garments will fall from an average of 12% on the EU and US markets to below 5%. For canned tuna, which Mauritius exports, the preference margin will drop to around 6% from a high of 24%. 3.4.3 Tourism The Tourism Industry has contribution extensively towards foreign exchange earnings, GDP growth and employment creation. With the impact of the turmoil experienced in the international financial markets in 2008, the sector recorded an increase of only 2.6% in tourist arrival as opposed to a 15.1% growth in arrival in 2007, followed by a negative growth of 6.4% in 2009. As at 2009, the tourism sector contributed to 8.9% of GDP; created 26,922 direct jobs and generated Rs. 35,693 million ($1190 million USD) as tourism receipts. Mauritius has performed well in developing a distinctive form of relatively high-end tourism. Growth in tourist arrivals has outpaced that of many of our competitors. Currently, the aim is to continue that growth with a visitorsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¸ target of two million tourists a year by 2015. To achieve the set target, the number of hotels and room capacity has evolved considerably over the years to cater for the ever-increasing tourist arrivals. Mauritius has been taking measures since early May 2008 to cushion the economy from the risks of deterioration in the world economy. The main policy measures taken since May 2008 are as summarised in the table below. Date POLICY MEASURES ADOPTED AND IMPLEMENTED May 2008 Allocation of Rs. 6 billion [$200 M] for investment in airport expansion creation of 6 funds to realize the Maurice Ile Durable vision, build food security, boost education and knowledge, eradicate poverty and widen the circle of opportunities, improve local infrastructure, carry social housing commitment and sharpen the competitiveness of domestic oriented industries and SMEs. June 2008 The 2008/2009 Budget voted an amount of Rs. 1.8 billion [$430 M] for contingencies to cater for any additional injection required to support public spending and demand. July 2008 Full implementation of the recommendations of the Pay Research Bureau on review of salaries and conditions of employment in the civil service thus injecting an additional amount of Rs 1.5 billion [$50 M] in the economy. October 2008 Reduction in Repo Rate by 50 basis points from 8.25 to 7.75 Reduction in Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) from 5% to 4.5 % Reduction in the minimum CRR on any particular day from 4% to 3% Introduction of a Special Foreign Currency Line of Credit by the Bank of Mauritius aggregating $125 M so as to assist banks encountering difficulties due to non-availability or inadequacy of foreign exchange facilities from usual sources. Review of the Automatic Price Mechanism (APM) to enable monthly, instead of quarterly, review of petroleum prices so that local retail price aligned with international prices of petroleum products. December 2008 Presentation of Additional Stimulus Package (ASP) amounting to Rs 10.4 billion [$350 M] to be spent through 2009 and 2010, basically on major capital projects with focus on fast-tracking and frontloading of existing public infrastructure projects, new investments in public infrastructure, accelerating private sector investment, improving business climate, building human resource capacity, and supporting vulnerable sectors such as the SMEs, export oriented manufacturing and tourism. Setting up of Special Committees to fast track implementation of the Additional Stimulus Package and to unlock private investment. Reduction of the Repo Rate by 100 basis points from 7.75 to 6.75 March 2009 Reduction in the Repo Rate by 100 basis points from 6.75 to 5.75 May 2009 Presentation of new budget built on the Additional Stimulus Package to ride out the global crisis. Some measures to enhance competitiveness and focusing on saving jobs, protecting people, and preparing for recovery are as follows: Injecting an additional Rs 2 billion in the Saving Jobs and Recovery Fund (SJR FUND), to provide for a new micro-enterprise financing scheme for women to be operated by the National Empowerment Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and the Mauritius Post and Cooperative Bank. Rescheduling of loans by the Development Bank of Mauritius for SMEs which were servicing their loans prior to the crisis in September 2008 but then faced cash flow problems. Setting up an Emergency Export Credit Insurance scheme for SMEs as well as large enterprises in all sectors until December 2010. Operating a scheme to assist small hotels and restaurants to improve, and enhance productivity and competitiveness under the SJR Fund. Setting up of the Mauritius Business Growth Scheme (MBGS) to promote business growth in SMEs. Eligible firms will receive financing to support their business growth on a cost-sharing basis Introducing a mentoring service by National Empowerment Foundation to ensure sustainability of small businesses initiated mostly by women Under the Food Security Fund, introduction of a Food Crop Insurance Scheme for small food crop planters, a Seed Potato Purchase Scheme to encourage the production of potatoes by small planters and an Onion Seed Purchase Scheme. Reduction of Ministers salary by Rs 10, 000 per month (July 2009 to Dec 2010) Earmarking Rs 100 million from the MID Fund to co-finance a Rs 280 million programme with the CEB, CWA and WMA (utility agencies) to clean up the social housing estates and rehabilitate the water, electricity and waste-water infrastructure Increase old age, non-contributory pensions and social aid benefits by 5.1 % Payment of compensation of 5.1% for the lowest income band while at the time broadening the band. September 2009 The key Repo Rate was maintained at 5.75 per cent per annum November 2009 The Budget 2010 presented on 18 November 2010 provides for policies for shaping recover, consolidating social progress and sustaining green Mauritius. The measures, inter-alia, include, intensifying efforts to consolidate the traditional and emerging economic pillars, so as to open business opportunities and further stimulate job creation, in particular for women, continue improving the doing business environment to increase investment; investing in human resource development, science, technology and innovation to build the competitive competence that Mauritius needs to be among the fast globalisers; accelerating plan to build the infrastructure of tomorrow. On the social front, the 2010 budget provides for additional effort towards eradication of absolute poverty, provision for every family with a decent dwelling, delivering more and better health care, giving more social protection to our children and women, preparing for the challenges of an ageing population and ramping up support for our seniors and consolidating the progress made in giving greater access to education, from pre-primary to tertiary levels. In regard to the Additional Stimulus Package (ASP), Government policies have been instrumental in dealing with the crisis in terms of saving jobs, preventing closures of firms and protecting people. However, given the current international economic context, the exit strategy needs to be carefully managed. Accordingly government has decided to maintain the Additional Stimulus Measures until December 2010 including the funds committed for a stimulus package for Rodrigues. December 2009 The key Repo Rate was maintained at 5.75 per cent per annum Source: Mauritius Strategy for Implementation National Assessment Report 2010 3.5 Conclusion Trade liberalization has proven to be beneficial to the economy through consistent amelioration of the growth rate over the years. However, increased openness has undermined the economic vulnerability of the island.

Thomas Jefferson Essay -- essays research papers

Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743 in Albermarle County, Virginia. He was born in a simple four-room house in Shadwell, Virginia, what is now Monticello. His father, Peter Jefferson, was a planter who was a bright, brave, and strong man. His mother was a very gentle lady. She was boring under one of the most distinguished families in the area. His family had prospered since the first Jefferson arrived in America from Whales in 1612. Soon after Jefferson’s birth, the French and British began fighting their third war in a half of century over North America’s territory.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jefferson went to an English school at the age of five where he remained for four years. He was then transferred to a Latin school for five years. His father died in 1758 and Thomas was put under the control of Rev. Maury to prepare for college. When he was 17, Thomas enrolled in the college of William and Mart in Williamsburg, VA. He found the college disappointing but extremely liked the town considering it was the biggest community Jefferson had ever seen. He thrived for knowledge and was able to graduate with the highest honors in the college. After college, he studied law under the instruction of George Wythe and was inducted into the practice of law. He did not reamain in this profession for long and in 1764 was elected a representative to the Legislatures of Justices. During this time he became more and more involved in the public life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Also in 1764, he inherited 2,750 acres of his father’s estate. He returned to Shadwell and began building Monticello at the top of an 867 foot mountain. Monticello now overlooks the University of Virginia. It remains a historical landmark and is open for public touring.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1769 Thomas Jefferson took his seat in the House of Burgesses, where he served in Albermarle County until 1776. In 1770 Jefferson’s Shadwell estate caught on fire and many of his families belongings, books, and papers were destroyed. This caused Jefferson to take up residence in Monticello. Thomas married Martha Wayles Skelton, a 23-year-old widow, in 1772. They had six children. Jefferson’s mother, Jane Randolph Jefferson, died in 1776.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Thomas Jefferson played a key part in the beginning of America’s Independence from Great Britain. He took part in the sig... ...ditions of the time period. On March 4, 1809, Jefferson retired from public office. He left Washington and returned to his home, Monticello, in Virginia. He never left Virginia again.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Thomas Jefferson accomplishes many things in the later years of his life. In 1817, he began the founding of the University of Virginia. At the age of 77, he began to work on his autobiography. He also developed a deep relationship with John Adams. They associated with each other all the time. They wrote many letters back and forth from Virginia to Massachusetts. After being ill for many years, he wrote his will in March of 1826. In mid-June, he became bed stricken for the first time in his life. On July 4, 1826, the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson died. He was eighty-three years old. Several hours later John Adams died in Massachusetts his last words being â€Å"Thomas Jefferson still survives†. The nation was struck by this coincidence. Although it would seem that Jefferson was a very rich man, he died more than 100,000 dollars in debt. Thomas Jefferson is known as one of the greatest men of American History.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Informative Paper Essay

Introduction I. Attention-Grabbing introduction: Staple center, Los Angeles, California. Friday November, 4th 2013 1:24PM The Championship match. After a weekend full of ups and downs, twist and turns it all comes to this. 1 week earlier, the previous Friday thousands have flown down to the heart of it all. Crowded around the event hall doors, people everywhere, spectators itching to get the best seats. Players going over in game builds, timings, and strategies just one more time until the doors finally open. 8 teams of 5 players to a team were seated into the week long tournament and now only two remain. Royal Club and SK Telecom are season veterans of League of Legends and now they sit on opposite ends on top of the world championship main stage. Ready to compete head to head for the grand prize of 1 million dollars in front of 1000s right there in Los Angeles and millions watching from all around the world. II. Topic: These millions from around the world have emitted their love for gaming into a hugely popular phenomena known as Electronic sports or better known as of E-Sports. Viewership has seen explosive growth in 2013 and is still growing with no sign of deterrence. Now with the integration of technology into our culture a new type of athlete has risen. One that doesn’t achieve victory heavily based on the bronze that is armed but with the critical thinking and reflex of the mind. An outsider might find this such a concept laughable but these pro gamers are far from any negative stereotypes you may have. III. Ethos & Audience Adaptation: My name is Jonathon Allen and I have been a fan and member of the E-Sports community for nearly a decade. I have had opportunities to play professionally at the MLG North American Regionals in Columbus and New York  in 2012 which I have placed 2nd and 3rd in out of 30 teams. Over the years I have also conducting extensive research on E-Sports ranging from players and teams to the technology side of running and mending events in the industry. E-Sports can be a lot to digest for someone looking in for the first time so I’ll explain exactly what and how big E-Sports really is including the potential E-Sports has to expand and grow. Before we go any further I’d like to present this video to visually show you exactly what E-Sports is and most importantly what it feels like. Visual Aid! Body I.This is E-Sports, competition at its finest. Players competing for cash prizes ranging from thousands to millions. Top players make 6 figure incomes and are even sponsored by big corporations such as Monster, Intel, Redbull, Asus, and Kingston. Pro gamers are locked into head to head combat in games like League of Legends. A DOTA-MMO style game that’s played as a team of 5 people VS 5 people. The object of the game is strategizing on how to win by taking the enemies base while leveling up and generating gold. Most games usually last around 40 minutes. II.You may ask; why would someone watch someone else play a video game? That’s simple; the excitement from watching others play video games stands as the same excitement we get from watching other athletes perform at sports such as football. T.J. Heffer from PC gamer Magazine states â€Å"What makes any competition interesting is watching very skilled individuals struggle for victory in a setting where the outcome is uncertain and the moment to moment back and forth keeps you on your toes.† Heffer continuous â€Å"Rather or not you want to call them sports they showcase people with amazing critical thinking, planning, and decision making skills and frankly inhuman reflexes as well. The level of professional level in a game lie League of Legends is mind boggling.† Professional gamers put their heart and soul into the game. They have drive, passion, hard work and dedication just like any professional athlete you can think of. III.As I’m assuming E-Sports may be alien to many of you but in nations like South Korea games such as StarCraft have already become something of a national sport. Paul Tassi of Forbs Magazine said â€Å"Overseas, top players are treated like professional Athletes.† Though South Korea has become atoned to the notion of playing games professionally North America believe it or not is where the biggest interest for pro gaming lies. In North American E-Sports, leagues and organizations have risen and grown in the past 3 years. In of these leagues the biggest E-Sports organization is Major League Gaming or MLG. Founded in 2002 Major League Gaming features numerous tournaments in a year where various gamers fly out to major cities across the US like Columbus to compete. In MLG’s Annual Viewership Report for the 2013 season they reported 15 million unique viewers tuned into watch online during the 2013 season. As those 15 million viewers tuned in last year it’s clear that E-Sports has already landed a very stable footing into the hearts of Americans across the United States. But perhaps even more thrilling and exciting is the growth that E-Sports has already shown. Between 2010 – 2013 MLG has seen a 733% growth in viewership from 1.8 million to 15 Million. Comparing that to the NFLS record growth of 18% in the past 3 years that’s 715% more than the NFL. Let’s not down play the viewership of the NFL which has recorded a record of 28.1 Million viewers for their 2013 – 2014 season. But you start to understand thus to how much potential E-Sports has when MLG a company that’s only been around for 11 years has acquired a viewership of 15 million. Just a little above half of the NFLS record viewer count 28.1 an organization that has been around for nearly a 100 years. Conclusion With these statistics of expansion and with how overseas treats E-Sports like a national sport and with pro gamers possessing the same set of virtues that any professional athlete has along the millions around the globe that  already are a part of the community only drives E-Sports. It’s not really a question of is it, it’s really a question of when! When asked about where he sees E-Sports going and what to expect of the industry. MLG Co-Founder Sundance DiGiovanni in a position that puts him at the hell of the entire E-Sports industry told Forbs Magazine in 2012 â€Å"that in 5 years he expects E-Sports to be a globally recognized phenomena. A truly established global sport.†

Family is losing its functions Essay

Using material from Item 2B and elsewhere assess the view that, in today’s society the family is losing its functions. As stated in Item 2B, the family fulfils a number of important functions for individuals and for society, such as the socialisation of children and the stabilisation of adult personalities. However, some sociologists suggest that, in today’s society, the family is losing its importance as these functions are being taken over by other institutions; for example, nurseries have an increasingly important role in the socialisation of young children whose parents are working full-time. Functionalists see the family as a particularly important sub-system; they believe that the nuclear family is a key institution as it meets basic needs. Murdock (1949) argues that the family performs four essential functions to meet the needs of society and its members. Firstly, they offer economic support to provide the children with all the fundamental necessities they requir e in life e.g. food, shelter and water. They too give a stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner, making their partner feel more safe and secure, as well as reducing the chances of getting STDs. Another purpose is reproduction of the next generation, without which society could not continue. Further to this, it also provides the child with 2 role models and so, they will feel more safeguarded of having both parents. Lastly, it socialises the young into society’s shared norms and values- without this, society would suffer from negative impacts e.g. feral children. A criticism to Murdock’s study is that it is out-dated, many sociologists argue that society has now changed and these functions can be performed equally well by other institutions, or by non-nuclear family structures. Marxists and Feminists reject his ‘rose-tinted’ consensus view that the family meets the needs of both wider society and all the members of the family. They argue that functionalists don’t review exploitation and conflict within society. Marxists argue that the family maintains class inequality and capitalism and so, the functions of the family are performed purely for the benefit of the capitalist system. They do not see the nuclear family in the same way as functionalists and believe that they ignore the ‘dark side’

God Grew Tired of Us Essay

God Grew Tired of Us documents the journey of three Sudanese men who were part of the â€Å"Lost Boys of Sudan†, a refugee camp home to thousands of young men who fled Sudan amidst the wars that went on since the 1980s. The three young men were one of the few who were invited to live in America and the documentary follows the men on their journey of adapting to the North American culture, customs and the new found freedom they never had back in Sudan. Throughout the film, the audience witness their struggle of feeling a sense of belonging and also their strive to find the family members they lost when they had to flee the country during the war. The men began their journey to the United States when they got on their very first airplane to Belgium for a connection flight to New York. There we witness the men embark on their first cultural shock. At the airport, the men are obviously amazed at the diversity of races since they’ve grown up only knowing one, African. Most North Americans grew up with a diverse culture around them so walking down the street and seeing someone who isn’t the same skin tone as you is never really a shock to anyone. For the men it was a first glance of what it’s like to live in the United States, where you’d have to learn to live amongst and get along with people who are of a different race and have different beliefs than you. When the lost boys arrive in America, they are presented with their very own apartment, something they’ve never seen in their lives. Now the men need to adapt with living a modern North American lifestyle with electricity and plumbing. A guide takes them through the house and demonstrates how to use basic everyday appliances. This was particularly amusing because the men were learning basic skills such as using the toilet and using toilet paper, something that North Americans learn in the early toddler years. Also, now that the men live on their own, they’d have to cook for themselves, something that men are not supposed to do in Africa because it is seen as a woman’s job. In North America it is not seen as a humiliating task for men to be seen cooking. Instead, chefs and cooks are stereotyped as a man’s job. As new citizens of America, the lost boys have left behind their extended families back in Africa. In a sense of loneliness they lean on each other for comfort. It makes sense that they travel together to help each other out, but unfortunately locals filed complaints to police that because the men travel in pacts, they’re intimidating. This was a totally absurd and racist accusation. Just because the men are tall and black doesn’t mean they are a threat to society. North Americans tend to stereotype people to segregate certain groups. The men experienced their first account of discrimination, an act that ultimately pushed them to run away from their home country in the first place. At the end of the film, the lost boys have lived in America for over 3 years and have adapted to the North American culture. Two of the three lost boys were lucky enough to locate their family members. The men went on to live separate lives and even got college/university degrees. The documentary ends with a short note about each of the three men and what they did after the film was done. Daniel, John, and Panther, the once lost boys with no future planned ahead are now striving to make a difference for their country.