John Keats Essay

In John Keats â€Å"Ode to a Nightingale,† answer the following: Identify some Romantic quality about this poem. Explicate. This may require that you provide an example from the work. I feel that there is a â€Å"romantic quality† to Stanza 2. This stanza goes: 2. O, for a draught of vintage! that hath been Cool’d a long age in the deep-delved earth, Tasting of Flora and the country green Dance, and Provencal song, and sunburnt Mirth! O for a beaker full of the warm South, Full of the true, the blushful Hyppocrene, With beaded bubbles winking at the brim, And purple-stained mouth; That I might drink; and leave the world unseen. And with thee fade away into the forest dim: (Poetical, 2005) To me, it seems that the poet is now moving into a world of fantasy, a state the vintage can help bring him into, a pleasurable state of Mirth. He wants to join the nightingale and he uses vintage to take him there. In stanza 2, the reader begins to see and feel the images of â€Å"the country green, Dance, and Provencal song†¦Ã¢â‚¬  It all can have a romantic, fantasy quality to it. All of the visual images along with sunburnt Mirth combines to bring the poet and the reader into what could be thought of as a romantic state of drunkenness. In John Keats â€Å"Eve of St. Agnes,† answer the following: 1. Who is the Beadsman, and what part does he play in the story? It is the Beadsman’s penance to tell Madeline the superstition of St. Agnes Eve. The Beadsman is alone and cold in the chapel praying for the Baron and his friends who are partying. In these days Beadsman were paid to pray for their employer. This brings irony to the poem in that one might think The Beadsman needs the prayers or should be praying for himself. The Beadsman rejects life’s joys. The Beadsman dies this very evening as relayed in the last two lines of the poem (Stanza 42). It could also be noted the Beadsman introduces the religious imagery into the poem when he enters and ends the religious imagery when his part is over. At the beginning of the poem the Beadsman knows his deathbell has rung and indeed it is confirmed by the end of the poem. 2. Why does Angela die? Both Angela and the Beadsman died quietly of old age after witnessing the lovers fleeing into the storm. They played their part and â€Å"exited† the poem. 3. Study the last stanza: do the lovers live happily ever after? What is Keats` point? We don’t really know—it is ambiguous. It states, â€Å"These lovers fled away into the storm† (Stanza 42). I feel that because Keats believed in negative capability or that people have the ability to accept that not everything has to be resolved, he was just allowing the reader to decide rather than writing a trite, obvious ending. It could have also been that Keats didn’t want to end the dream or it to be clearly distinguishable the idea of this being a dream or reality. 4. Do the characters succeed in practicing negative capability? Yes, I feel the characters did succeed in practicing negative capability in that not everything in the poem was resolved for the characters or for the readers. Some of those questions there were no rational explanations for included: was Madeline raped? Why doesn’t Angela tell Madeline that Porphyro was hiding in her closet? Did Madeline and Porphyro die in the storm or live happily ever after? What part of this poem was a dream and what part of it was reality?  Reference (2005). The poetical works of John Keats. Retrieved May 17, 2007, from Great Books Online Web site: http://www. bartleby. com/126/40. html.

Environment Analysis Essay

Organizations analyze the environment in order to understand the external forces so that it could help to develop effective responses to secure or improve their positions in the future. There existed a positive relation between environmental analysis and profits of an organization. Top management looked at information in two ways: viewing and searching information. This information needed to be evaluated and disseminated to strategists within the organization and to help top management to make decisions that could create strategic advantage for the organization to succeed in a changing environment 1. There were research evidences that showed that environmental analysis was linked with improved organizational performance. Hence, it remained insufficient to assure performance, without aligning information with strategy. The main debate in strategy and environment was concerned with the primary importance of the environmental analysis in strategy formulation and implementation. 84 Reserve Bank of India The Reserve Bank of India is fully owned by the Government of India. Initially it was viewed to bring the greater coordination of the monetary, economic, and financial policies. During fifties objectives of Reserve Bank of India underwent changes. It was recognized that Reserve Bank of India needs to take on direct and much more active role, in developing machinery for financial development in order to ensure flow of finance in the country. Reserve Bank emerged as a regulatory and a growth promoting institution. In the beginning limited to the agricultural sector, the Bank later covered small-scale industries as well. The affairs of Reserve Bank of India are governed by the central board of directors. The board is appointed by the Government of India according to the Reserve Bank of India Act. The preface of the Reserve Bank of India describes the basic functions of the Reserve Bank as: â€Å"to regulate the issue of Bank Notes and keeping of reserves with a view to securing monetary stability in India and generally to operate the currency and credit system of the country to its advantage† 2. The Reserve Bank? s freedom may be viewed broadly to the areas like management including personnel matters, financial aspects, and to conduct polices. Managerial freedom refers to the procedures for appointment, term of office and dismissal procedures of top central bank officials and the governing board. It also includes the extent and nature of representation of the Government in the governing body of the central bank. 85 Financial freedom relates to the freedom to decide the extent of Government expenditures directly or indirectly financed by the central bank? s credits. Finally, policy freedom is related to the flexibility given in the formulation and execution of monetary policy, under a given authorization. Reserve Bank of India has over the years been responding to changing economic circumstances. The Reserve Bank of India performs the function of financial supervisor under the guidance of Board for Financial Supervision. This board undertake consolidated supervision of the financial sector comprising of Commercial Banks, Financial Institutions, and Non-Banking Finance Companies. The key functions played by this board were restructuring of the system of Bank, introduction of off-site scrutiny, strengthening the role of legislative auditors, and strengthening the internal defences of supervised institutions. Currently this board focus on supervision of financial institutions and legal issues in Banks. Reserve Bank of India acts as a guard for Commercial Banks. Commercial Banks are required to keep a certain proportion of cash reserves with the Reserve Bank and Bank provide them various facilities like advancing loans, underwriting securities etc. Reserve Bank of India controls the volume of reserves of Commercial Banks and thereby determines the deposits and credit creating ability of the Banks. Whenever Commercial Banks need funds they get it from the Reserve Bank of India. Apart from playing the role of Banker to the Banks, Reserve Bank of India also play promotional role. The aim is to establish and assist the establishments of a number of financial intuitions for filling up of various financial institutional gaps in the rural and semi-urban areas. 86 Other roles played by Reserve Bank of India are: Reserve Bank stabilizes the external value of the national currency. The Reserve Bank keeps gold and foreign currencies and manages foreign currency in accordance with the controls imposed by the government. Reserve Bank of India facilitate external trade and payment and promote orderly development and maintenance of foreign exchange market in India. Reserve Bank has taken the responsibility of meeting directly or indirectly all legitimate demands of Commercial Banks under emergency conditions and to a certain extent Reserve Bank influence the credit policy of Scheduled Banks. The Reserve Bank has instrument of control in the form of the bank rate, which it publishes from time to time 3. A list of the Reserve Bank of India Committees from 1990- 2008 was prepared to get an impression about developments with respect to Banking Industry (Appendix- III). The recommendations resulted into remarkable changes in products and policies of Banking Organizations. Indian Bank’s Association (IBA) Indian Bank? s Association is a leading service organization of Banking Industry in India. It aims to integrate Banking and finance system catering to all financial requirements of customer? s. It was formed in 1946 with 22 members. Today Indian Bank? s Association has more than 159 members comprising of Public Sector Banks, Private Sector Banks, Foreign Banks (having offices in India), and Urban Co-operative Banks. 87 The main objectives of Indian Bank? Association are: promoting and developing sound and progressive Banking principles and practices in order to assist Banks to develop and implement new ideas and innovative Banking services, operations and procedures; organizing co-ordination and co-operation on procedural, legal, technical, administrative or professional problems and practices of Banks ; circulating statistical data, informati on, views and opinions on the Banking System; conducting Management Development Programs for Banks; promoting education and knowledge of the law and practices of Banking Industry; to help in projecting good public image of Banking Industry ; and to promote harmonious relationships by devising ways and means for involving Banking personnel? in the growth and development of Banking Industry. Indian Bank? s Association tries to achieve excellent service quality and customer care through its focused efforts to make each customers experience a pleasant one. Towards this end Indian Bank? s Association stressed on to build staff potential by each Bank to address customer challenges and asked Banks to design a performance management system, which focuses on rewarding the staff for delivering flawless customer service. In 2000, Indian Bank? s Association reviewed the charters of different Banks and brought out a „Model Citizen Charter? explaining to the customer? s what they could expe ct from the Bank? s as a matter of right. Apart from this Indian Bank? s Association brought „bankers fair practices? in 2004 which was adopted by all Banks voluntarily. It also came out with „fair practice code for credit card operation? and „model code for collection of dues and repossession of security? with special concern to customer? s voice about Banking practices 4. 88 Ministry of Finance Ministry of Finance in India governs the entire fiscal system of the Government of India. The three departments headed by the Ministry of Finance in India include: economic affairs, expenditure, and revenue. Thus, it mainly centralizes around the economic and financial issues pertaining in India. Ministry of Finance Government of India, Banking Division is managing Government policies related to the working of Banks and the term lending to financial institutions. This Division is headed by Secretary (Banking and Insurance) and operates through three subdivisions: Industrial Finance; Banking Operations; and Banking and Insurance. Each subdivision is headed by a Joint Secretary. The Banking Operations sub-division deals with legislative proposals described to Banks, non-banking financial companies, and other related matters like appointments of Chief Executives and Government nominee Directors and non-official directors on the boards of Public Sector Banks. In addition policy matters relating to Private Banks, Foreign Banks, and improvement of customer? service in Banks and redressal of customers grievances are also dealt with this Banking Operations sub-division of Ministry of Finance. This sub-division also deals with vigilance matters and appoints Chief Vigilance Officers (C VO? s) in the Public Sector Banks to enable the Public Sector Banks to meet the credit requirements for the productive sectors of the economy in proportion to the economic growth of the country. The Government is committed to infuse capital funds in Public Sector Banks as well 5. 89 Nature of Banking Industry Bank? s safeguard money and valuables and provide loans, credit, and payment services, such as checking accounts, money-orders, and cashier? s checks. Banks also offer investment and insurance products which they were once prohibited. There exists variety of models for cooperation and integration among finance industries some of these traditional distinctions between Banks, Insurance Companies, and Securities Firms has diminished. In spite of these changes, Banks continued to maintain and perform their primary role of accepting deposits and lending funds from these deposits. Banks securely save the money of depositors, provide checking services, and lend the funds raised from depositors to consumers. Bank? s today are in a wide range of sizes, from large Global Banks to Regional and Community Banks. These Global Banks are involved in international lending and foreign currency trading, in addition to the more typical Banking services. Working Environment Employee? in a typical branch work weekdays, whereas in few Banks sometimes Banks were opened until late evenings or were open on Saturday morning? s and in few even on Sundays. Supervisory and managerial employee? s, usually work substantially longer hours. Some B anks are expanding the working hours in their branches which are located at non- 90 traditional locations, such as shopping malls, which remain open on most evenings and weekends. Branch office jobs, particularly front-end positions, required continuous communication with customers. Some employees needed to work for longer hours in a confined space. Loan officers might need to travel to meet clients, or work evenings for their clients. Loan officers also check loan applications, and solicit new business for Banks. Financial Service Sales Representatives might also have to visit clients in the evenings and on weekends to go through the client? s financial needs. To improve customer service and provide greater access to Bank personnel? s, Banks have staffed Customer Service Representatives. The remaining Bank employees, working at the headquarters or other administrative offices usually worked in comfortable surroundings and worked for a standard workweek. In general, Banks are considered relatively safer place to work with respect to injuries and illness. Banks also encourage higher education and training for their employee? as Banks require creative and talented people to compete in the market place so as to reach to more number of customers. The basic premise here is to Study the relevant data and derive some information related to the Strategic Environment pertaining to Indian Banking Industry, which may be used in due course in a broader context if not in specific context. Environmental factors influencing Banking Industry are: 91 Economic Factors Indian economy has registered impressive growth of over 9 percent for successive three financial years and experienced restraint in 2008-09. This restraint was caused due to the downturn in the global economy. The year 2008-09 was the most deficient year after 1972. To fight against this slowdown Government of India and Reserve Bank of India took many fiscal as well as monetary actions. It was expected that Indian economy could again register a robust growth rate in the year 2009-10. As per the revised estimates released by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO), Indian economy grew by 7. 6 percent in 2008-09 and 9. 3 percent growth in the 2007-08 6. Banks lending to industries, personal loans and service sectors witnessed a slow down while, Banks lending to agriculture and allied activities moved upward during 2008-09. The income as well as the expenditures of Scheduled Commercial Banks viewed a slow down leading to decrease in the net profit. The Return on Assets (ROA) as an indicator of efficiency with which Banks deployed their assets remained to 1 percent in 2009. The Return on Equity (ROE) as an indicator of efficiency with which the Banks used capital increased to 13. 2 percent in 2009 from 12. 5 percent in 2008, indicating increased efficiency with which Banks used capital 7. 92 Growth of income of Scheduled Commercial Banks during 2008-09 decelerated to 25. 7 percent from 34. 3 in 2007-08, but was higher than the growth rate of 24. 4 percent in 200607. Expenditure of Scheduled Commercial Banks was 24. 1 percent in 2006-07, which increased to 33. 9 percent in 2007-08 and again decelerated to 26 percent in 2008-09. The operating profit of Scheduled Commercial Banks increased sharply by 33. percent during 2008-09 from 26. 8 percent in 2007-08 and 21. 3 percent in 2006-07 (Table II. 1). The net profit of Scheduled Commercial Banks also showed a significant increase of 36. 9 percent during 2007-08 as compared to 26. 9 p ercent in 2006-07, but it decelerated to 23. 5 percent during 2008-09(Table II. 1) TABLE II. 1 VARIATION IN INCOME-EXPENDITURE OF SCHEDULED COMMERCIAL BANKS 2006-07 Income Expenses Operating Profit Net Profit 24. 4 24. 1 21. 3 26. 9 2007-08 34. 3 33. 9 26. 8 36. 9 2008-09 25. 7 26. 0 33. 2 23. 5 Source: Reports on Trend and Progress of Banking in India 8, 9 The Bank Group-wise analysis is presented in Table II. 2. Even though the achievements of technological changes in Banking Industry in India were impressive but there is a need to take greater advantages from new technologies and information based system to maximize the coverage. Pricewaterhouse Coopers report 18 suggested that Banks should take up automation that would be a combination of centralized networks, operations and a Core Banking applications that included Business Intelligence (BI), Business Process Re-engineering (BPR), and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) that catered to operational and analytical business needs. The multi-channel Banking has acquired further dimensions to include third party payments such as utility bills through different channels including Automated Teller Machines and mobile banking. Bank? internal groups examined the issues, relating to rural credit and micro-finance opportunities in the sector with several possible options like smart card-based kisan credit cards, smart card solutions for self-help groups, Automated Teller Machines with local language and voice facility and call-center amenities with added services given by various Banks. Introduction of Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) for providing credit to farmers had increased in the number a multi-fold since its inception in the late 1990? s and the total percentage share of these cards reached above forty percent 19. 97 Banks had transformed themselves into Universal Banks by adding new channels with lucrative pricing. Recent innovations in the form of total quality management, reengineering work processes, flexible systems have only one thing in common serving the customers well through improved operational efficiency. Consolidation in the Banking Industry followed by technological up-gradation acted as a key factor to boost the international competitiveness of the Indian Bank? s. Adapting technology had brought down the cost of transactions visibly and at the same time aided in business continuity. A Study mentioned that the cost per transaction through a branch was Rs. 66, cost per transaction ; through Automated Teller Machines was Rs. 22, and cost per transaction through internet was Rs. 0, ignoring the extreme variations owing to the investment cost and nature of transactions 20. This low cost benefit was opted by Commercial Banks as it helped them to reach to poor people, particularly those working in the rural areas and those who earn and spend cash. In order to handle their cash transactio ns Banks formulated two types of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). People could either use Automated Teller Machines that could accept, store or dispense cash or they could use a biometric device, which were mobile in nature. Infrastructure in India, has improved resulting into widespread use of Automated Teller Machines facility in villages as well. These machines consisted of additional features that included fingerprint use as a mean of authentication with a view that rural people were more comfortable with fingerprints than plastic cards. 98 The wide geographical coverage to access Banking related products and services with the help of mobile phone technology and the use of internet for banking transactions has gained superior usage. These modes of transactions required a safe and secure environment and provide a variety of options available for customers with different requirements. The numbers of mobile phone subscribers in India were about 261 million (March 2008). Towards this end, Reserve Bank of India issued guidelines for mobile banking transactions. Initially Banks offered the facility to their customers subject to a daily cap of Rs. 5,000 per customer for fund transfer and Rs. 10,000 per customer for transactions involving purchase of goods or services 21. Usage of internet banking in India is mainly dominated, by Private and Foreign Banks. Still, the number of individuals utilizing internet services has increased considerably. In 2006, about 12 percent of the 38. 5 million internet users in India used online banking and the figure for online banking increased to 16 million in 2007-08 22 . The average cost of servicing a customer through internet banking is the tenth of the services extended through a branch. Thus, there is a direct contribution to the profitability for a Bank and therefore, internet banking became a potential low cost alternative 23 . From customer? s viewpoint, internet banking is highly convenient as it help to avoid branch queues and makes customer free from depending on the inconsistent quality of services at the branch, which varied from person to person at the service desk. Internet Banking allowed customers to operate their accounts at their convenient hours instead of being dependent on the Banks working hours. Moreover, internet banking permitted customers to transact on a 24Ãâ€"7 basis from any part of the world. 99 Therefore, internet banking delivery channel has the potential to contribute directly towards the nation? prosperity as it allowed more people to join the Banking stream without adding cost and it is tremendously convenient to customers. Reserve Bank of India started measures to create multi-lingual links on its website for thirteen Indian language s on all matters concerning Banking in June 2007 24. In the recent years, the use of electronic payments has witnessed manifold increase reflecting increased adoption of technology. The electronic payment systems comprised of the large value payment systems like Real Time Gross Settlements (RTGS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) and card based payment systems. The growth of volume of transactions directed through electronic payment has decelerated from 41. 4 percent in 2007-08 to 24. 8 percent in 2008-0925. The numbers and usage of Automated Teller Machines had gone up substantially during the last few years. Automated Teller Machines were primarily used for cash withdrawal and balance enquiry. In 2008-09, the total number of Automated Teller Machines installed by the Banks grew by 25. 4 percent. Automated Teller Machines of State Bank of India group registered a sharp growth of 34. 5 percent. While the Automated Teller Machines installed by new Private Sector Banks and Foreign Banks was 3 times of their respective branches 26, 27 . In March 2008, the population per automated teller machines in India was more than 29,500 as against the range of 1,000-9,500 in some of the other emerging market economies 28, 29 . In June 2009, Reserve Bank of India permitted Scheduled Commercial Banks to install off-site Automated Teller Machines at places identified by them, without any need to take permission from the Reserve Bank of India. Cash withdrawal from Automated Teller Machines of the Bank? s was made free of charges, April 2009 onwards. This made Automated Teller Machines more popular among customers. 100 Banks had deployed Information Technology solutions to facilitate automation in transaction management, reporting and risk management. Most of the Banks across the segments had already implemented Core Banking Systems. In the 2007, 85. 6 percent and in the 2008, 93. 7 percent Public Sector Banks were fully computerised 30, 31 . Other rograms such as internet based transactions, self-service kiosks, mobile banking were either underway or planned in near future by Public Sector Banks. Foreign Sector Banks and old and new Private Sector Banks in India, had progressed well in the areas of technology up-gradation i n operations. Technology up-gradation helped to introduce new products and services to enable Banks to improve the quality of service and value added services. Overall, Indian Banks score well with respect to technological adaption and the three key characteristic contributing towards the effective use of information technology in Banking Industry were: ? Factor Cost Advantage- information technology related labour costs in India remained cheaper as compared to other countries; ? Distribution Strategy- Indian Banks adopted a unique business model, acquiring customers rapidly with minimal technological investments; and ? Information Technology Governance- Indian Banks emphasized on information technology governance with the strong in-house Information Technology Division and a Chief Information Officer (CIO) directly reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in most cases. 101 It is information that made the Banking Industry stable. The pressure of competition and the need to improve productivity has generated a need for better information. In order to manage Banking operations to meet the needs of managers operating at tactical and strategic level and to improve their quality of decisions and policymaking processes within the Banks. Banks needed to set up an efficient and comprehensive Management Information System (MIS) without which asset and liability management and risk management were not possible. However, adoption of technology by Banks provided them competitive advantage in their operations but at the same time Banks became dependent on outsourcing for most of their technological applications. Therefore, Banks needed to employ caution to put in place mechanisms for vendor management. As an insecure system, could expose Banks towards serious operational regulatory and reputational risks. Banks have taken measures to safeguard the risk factors, emerging due to the use of technology. Towards this end, the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT) helped Banks to bring in technology and enabled them to work in secured environment while operating Real Time Gross Settlements System, Centralised Fund Management System (CFMS), corporate e-mail, and internet banking. It also acted as a „certifying authority? for the Banking Sector in India by issuing Digital Certificates 32 . Still there exists need to ensure much more accountable systems with regard to online payments with uniform standards all over the world. 102 Social Factors Before nationalization of the Banks, their control was in the hands of the private parties and only big business houses and the effluent sections of the society gained benefits from the Banking in India. Thus, adoption of the social development model in the Banking Sector was necessary for speedy economic progress consistent with social justice in democratic political system. Bankers were directed to help economically weaker sections of the society and to provide needed finance to all the sectors of the economy with flexible and liberal attitude. India? s demography had undergone transition and the demographic trends 1950 – 2050 studied, illustrates that India? s fertility rate is consistently falling from the peak 5. 91 percent in the first decade after independence to 2. 76 percent today and expected to fall further to 1. 85 percent. Even the death rate also likewise showing consistent decline from its peak 25. 5 in 1950-55 to 8. 5 today and to the lowest of 7. 9 in 2020-2025 33 . This ignifies towards steady number of customers for Banking Sector with longer income in the coming years. Indeed, India would be one of the youngest nations with its median age lying between 25 a nd 30 years over the next 15 years (2010 to 2025) 34. This signified that India would enjoy its prevalence of young age population for almost four decades. Thus, India? s demographic transition needed to be exploited by Banking Sectors viewing it as an opportunity. 103 Increase in the per capita income of the working class population of India, enabled individuals to purchase goods, which were far out of their reach earlier. It also encouraged people to buy goods for their personal use and for their family. Today societies have shifted towards nuclear family, resulting into the growing needs for home consumer durables like washing machine, television, bike, car etc. This showed how we as a society have moved from a socialist society to a consumerist society. Understanding these changes and to use them as an opportunity Banks provided various types of loans to farmers, working women, professionals, education loan to the students, housing loans, and consumer loans. Even customers life style, their behaviour, and consumption patterns have changed which acted as an opportunity as well as a threat for Banking Industry. Deposits showed a subdued growth during this decade. In 2008- 09 personal loans by Commercial Banks was 12. percent with respect to 10. 8 in 2007-08 of which housing loan was 11. 6 percent in 2007-08 and 7. 4 percent in 2008-09 35 . This deceleration was observed in housing loans especially due to economy slow down. Literacy rate in India is low as compared to other developed countries. Illiterate people hesitate to transact with Banks. Therefore, this influenced negatively on Banking Industry. Nevertheless, there exists positive side of this as well that illiterate people trust more on Banks to deposit their money as they do not have market information they do not put money in stocks or mutual funds so they look Bank as their sole and safe alternative. For a common man Banks have emerged as the key players to provide variety of products and services like saving accounts, insurance, remittance and other facilities to the under privileged and the poor in rural, semi-urban and urban areas or socially disadvantage as well as the small and medium enterprise sector . 104 On the other hand Banks deal with big clients or big companies which required personalized banking as these customers do not believe in running and waiting in queues for getting their work done . To these customers bankers provided special provisions and at times benefits like individualised hosting to these types of customers. It was brought to the notice of the Reserve Bank of India that visually challenged persons were facing problem in availing Banking facilities. Reserve Bank of India in June 2008 advised all Banks to ensure that all facilities such as cheque book including third party cheques, Automated Teller Machine facilities (at least one third of new Automated Teller Machine installed with Braille key pads and located strategically), net banking, locker, and credit cards to be provided to visually challenged persons without any discrimination 36. Banks related crimes are rising. These crimes included the typical ones such as Bank robbery, false statement to a Bank in order to obtain loan, false entry in a Banks book, Bank bribery, and Bank fraud. The other new types of crimes have also emerged like accessing to the whole or any part of information technology system without rights. These also included manipulation of Banking system, data alteration, or data destruction to make unauthorized identity theft with reference to Automate Teller Machines. Indian police has initiated by opening of special cyber cells across the country and started educating the personal against these crimes. 105 Political Factors Before 1990, the lack of accountability and lack of profit motive in Nationalized Banks was credited to political interference. After the economic reforms of 1991, the Indian Banking Industry entered into the new horizon of competiveness, efficiency, and productivity. Reserve Bank of India? s control system and its monetary policies acted as a major weapon in India? financial market. However, sometimes looking into the political advantage of a particular party, Government declares some measures for their benefits like short-term agricultural loans to attract farmer? s votes affecting the profits of the Banks. Even according to Banking Banana Skins, survey 2010 political interference was considered as the greatest risk for Banking Industry 37. In the Budget provisions, Finance Minister increased the farm credit target for 2009-10 at Rs. 3, 25,000 crore compared to Rs. 2, 87,000 crore in 2008-09. The Union Budget 200910 extended the debt waiver scheme by six more months for farmers owing more than 2 hectare of land. The Union Budget 2008-09 allowed farmers 25 percent rebate on 75 percent of their overdue repayment within the stipulated period 38 . Government also announced setting up of a task force to examine the issues of debt taken by a large number of farmers in some regions of Maharashtra from private moneylenders who were not covered under the loan waiver scheme 39 . With Government bearing this burden, Banks would not be affected much. As Government assured to help, Banks to clear their most stubborn non-performing assets accounts on Banks Book. In addition, the emphasis on expanding network with Automated Teller Machines, opening of Banking centre in unbanked blocks were some of the positive moves taken by Government. 106 Political interference by the leftist political parties claimed that various regulations with respect to Foreign Banks would benefit only those Banks, which intend to make a quick jump by providing high-profile corporate services, instead of those who wish to intensify their rural operations. Left political parties also cautioned that foreign players could increase their holding size in a particular Bank that would lead to an imbalance of power. Banks under the conventional system of recovery of loans had a considerable amount of money blocked in form of unproductive assets. Hence, to beat this difficulty parliament enacted Recovery of Debts to Banks and Financial Institutions Act, 1993 also refereed as Debt Recovery Act. This Act created a separate apparatus in the order of Debt Recovery Tribunals, which were handed over the responsibility of administering disputes pertaining to non-payment of debts. As this legislation was general in nature, another legislature by Parliament was enacted , referred as Securitization Act with an objective to give the Banks, more power over defaulting borrowers 40,41. Unions The post nationalization era in the Banking Industry in India, particularly in the Public Sector, witnessed consolidation of trade unions. All the nine unions had all-India presence in the Banking Industry. Five workers unions and four officers unions represented almost 100 percent of the workforce in the industry and joined hands to form a United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU). United Forum of Bank Unions comprised of All India Bank Employees Association, (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers Confederation (AIBOC), 107 National Confederation of Bank Employees (NCBE), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA), Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI), Indian National Bank Employees Congress (INBEC), Indian National Bank Officers Congress (INBOC), National Organization of Bank Workers (NOBW) and National Organization of Bank Officers (NOBO) 42. Representatives of unions were encouraged to give suggestions. However, in many cases undue interference of unions in decision-making has adversely affected, leading to the deterioration in discipline, efficiency, and performance effectiveness. With the growing strength of these organizations, the issues relating to employees interests were no longer determined by Bank? s managements alone. The massive introduction of technology into the industry made union policies defensive. Unions focused almost entirely on the immediate consequences of technological change on the workforce, especially the aspect of possible job losses. Employees in Public Sector Banks were repulsive to move from one table to another of the same branch. Now the trade unions seem to be willing to allow mobility for employees within a district as mergers enforced them to move from one state to another. Other issues taken up by unions were like introduction of New Pension scheme and variable pay which were resolved with the help United Forum of Bank Unions. Banks unions are also involved in demanding salary hikes, job losses, disinvestments in Public Sector, and issues related to violation of labour laws, and allocation of funds for schemes for unorganised workers. 108 After attempting, the macro level environmental analysis of Indian Banking Industry a micro functional level Human Resource Environmental Analysis has been attempted with the help of SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), it would help to further develop strategic viewpoint about the industry (Table II. 4). TABLE II. 4 HR SWOT ANALYSIS WITH RESPECT TO INDIAN BANKING INDUSTRY STRENGTHS ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Educated Manpower Higher Compliance Amongst Employees Experienced Employees Training Infrastructure Availability Safe Working Environment Responsiveness to Needful Change Strong Regulatory Institutional Framework ? ? ? ? ? OPPORTUNITIES Liberalization of Banking Sector Preferred Industry for Employment Availability of Multi-specialist staff Technology for Improved Interpersonal and Communication Skills Workforce Diversity WEAKNESSES ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Limited Technology Skills Repetitive Tasks Structure Inadequate Remuneration for Attracting Talent Lacking Career Growth Path Rigid Recruitment Policies Hierarchal Structure Rigid Wage Negotiation Process Leadership Deficit at Senior Level ? ? ? ? ? ? ? THREATS Movement of Skilled and Quality Staff Difficulty in Hiring Highly Qualified Youngsters Trend Towards Downsizing Changing Workforce Demographics High Staff Cost Overheads Changing Employees Expectations Entrenched Trade Unionism 109 Key Concerns for Indian Banking Industry The macro level analysis of Banking Industry and micro level analysis with respect to Human Resource functions helped to identify the key concerns related to the Banking Industry. Competition in Banking Industry is very high as Banks are fighting for same share of customers. There are many Banks and non-financial institutions which gave rise to intensified competition. Amongst these, there existed relatively no differentiation in services and every Bank tried to copy each other? s services and technology which increased the level of competition. Competition from the non-Banking financial sector is increasing rapidly as there are substitutes like mutual funds, stocks (shares), government securities, debentures, gold, and real estate acting as a high threat of substitutes. The continuous deregulation has made the Banking Market extremely competitive with greater autonomy, operational flexibility, decontrolled interest rate, and liberalized norms for foreign exchange. The deregulation of the industry coupled with decontrol in interest rates had led to the entry of a number of players in the Banking Industry 43. Alliances and takeovers had occurred on a transatlantic basis. The market share for financial services that Banks hold had declined, while securities firms, mutual funds, and finance companies has grown 44 . Banking Sector needs to build up a strong and efficient financial system by emphasizing on risk based management. 110 In Banking Sector, customers have high bargaining power due to the presence of very large number of alternatives. Banks together with the specialized financial companies that provide finance to customers are available. Recently it was observed that depositors had withdrawn funds from Private and Foreign Banks and invested their money with Public Sector Banks as the cost of switching from one Bank to another was low and almost all Banks provided undifferentiated services. Today customer? s have more information and better understanding about the market, Banks have to be more competitive and customer friendly to serve them. To retain customer? s and market share, Banks started contemplating on building strong relationship with customers. United Bank of India created a revolution in Banking Industry by opening up a boutique branch in Pune in November 2007, as its priority was to provide services to the high net worth customers. Thus, United Bank also recognized the needs of high net worth individuals different from the other customers. United Bank organized corporate golf tournament for customers, music concerts, and screening of Mani Ratnam directed film „Guru? 45 . Bank? s top management has started carefully evaluating the impacts for their actions. Recently, before cutting jobs in Private and Foreign Banks, Human Resource managers tried to assess reactions beforehand and they came out with certain proactive steps. Banks persistently worked in the interest of the Society. This chapter focussed on the environment analysis which is, undoubtedly, required for strategy formulation, and at the same is relevant as a backdrop for strategy implementation. For instance, the needful Human Resource Practices have to be continuously evolved and implemented against the ever-changing macro and micro environment of the Banking Organizations. 111 REFERENCES 1. Wei, C. C. (2001) Environmental Scanning as Information Seeking and Organizational Learning, Information Research, 7(1). 2. About us retrieved on 26 December 2010. 3. Goyal, O. P. (1979) Financial Institutions and Economic Growth of India, New Delhi: Light and Life Publishers. 4. About Us retrieved on 26 December 2010. 5. retrieved on 28 December 2010. . Reserve Bank of India (2008) Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India 2007-08, < www. rbi. org> retrieved on 25 December 2009. 7. Reserve Bank of India (2008) Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India 2007-08, p. 115. 8. Reserve Bank of Ind ia (2008) ibid (7), p. 114. 9. Reserve Bank of India (2009) Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India 2008-09, p. 125. 10. Reserve Bank of India (2008) ibid (7). 11. Reserve Bank of India (2009) ibid (9). 12. Reserve Bank of India, (2008) ibid. (7), p. 115. 13. Reserve Bank of India, (2009) ibid. (9), p. 125. 14. Chandrasekhar, C. P. (2005) What is Happening to Indian Banking? Frontline, 22(4): 12 – 25. 15. Reserve Bank of India (2008) ibid. (7), p. 116. 16. Reserve Bank of India (2009) ibid. (9), p. 127. 112 17. Reserve Bank of India (2009) ibid. (9), p. 142. 18. PricewaterhouseCoopers Report (2006) retrieved on 25 December 2009. 19. Raju, S. (2010) Financial Inclusion: Enabling Inclusive Growth. The India Economy Review, 7:42-49. 20. Sekar, G. V. Emerging Trends in Technology Adoption by Indian Banks and IT Governance – A Practical Guide, < http://www. cab. org. in/Lists/ Knowledge% 20Bank/ Attachments/43/Emerging%20Trends. pdf> retrieved on 3 June 2008. 21. Reserve Bank of India (2008) ibid. (7), p. 81. 22. Chandrashekaran, N. (2009) CII Banking Tech Summit, < http://www. financial express. com/news/indian-banks-behind-global-peers-in-technologypwc/438064> retrieved on 24 March 2009. 23. Jayawardhena, C. and Foley, P. (2000) Changes in Banking Sector – The Case of Internet Banking in UK. Journal of Internet Research: Networking and Policy, 10(1):19-30. 24. Rao, R. (2000) Banking @ The Speed of Thought, Business India, October 30November 12: 71-108 25. Reserve Bank of India (2009), ibid. (17). 26. Reserve Bank of India (2009) ibid. (9), p. 141. 27. Reserve Bank of India (2009) ibid. (9), p. 261. 28. Reserve Bank of India (2008) ibid. (7), p. 130. 29.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Exercises Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Rheumatoid Arthritis Exercises - Essay Example The onset of the disease is most frequent in fourth and fifth decades of life (Luqmani et al., 2006). The aetiology of the disease is not specifically known and has been suggested to be multifactorial. The class II major histocompatibility complex allele HLA-DR4 and related alleles are known to be major genetic risk factors for RA. It has been suggested that RA might be a manifestation of the response to an infectious agent in a genetically susceptible host. Activation of autoimmune mechanisms is the key aetiologic event in sustaining the chronic inflammatory process so characteristic of RA (Scott et al., 2000). The main event in pathophysiology is inflammatory synovitis. Subsequently through a cascade of multiple immune events through mediation of a host of immune cells, the synovial fibroblasts are activated. Added to cartilage degradation, osteoclasts are activated that leads to erosion of bone. The chemokines and cytokines lead to synovitis, cartilage and bone damage, and systemic manifestations of RA (Luqmani et al., 2009). Altman (2008) notes that these immunologic abnormalities arise from various immune complexes, which originate from the inflamed synovial cells that serve as a target for such immune injuries. The plasma cells that are recruited produce antibodies known as rheumatoid factors. These actively contribute to these complexes which ultimately lead to joint destruction. With further inflammation chemotaxis ensues leading to recruitment of macrophage cells with associate vasculitis. Primarily CD4+ lymphocytes infiltrate the synovial cells. These together produce inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, namely tumor necrosis factors, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factors, interleukins, and gamma-interferon. These are known inflammatory mediators leading to further joint inflammation and systemic manifestations of the disease. When the disease is chronic, the synovial membrane is very much thickened and is projected into the joint cavity. The synovium is the seat of inflammation, which produce collagenase and stromelysin leading to further degeneration of joint cartilage. Interluekin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha contribute to this process and stimulate osteoclasts, thus leading to bone erosion. Prostaglandins are released. With the maintenance of inflammation, fibrous tissue is deposited within the joint. The synovial tissue appears very much proliferates and highly vascular, leading to pannus which further potentiates release of inflammatory chemokines leading to all round erosion of the joint structures such as cartilage, bone, articular capsule, and the periarticular ligaments. Most of the inflammatory cells are neutrophils. In some patients rheumatoid nodules develop (Altman 2008). Clinical Features Clinically RA presents as chronic polyarthritis of symmetrical synovial joints of hands, wrists, knees, and feet with an insidious onset of fatigue, generalised weakness, and vague musculoskeletal symptoms for weeks or months. Pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected joints get aggravated with movement. Generalised stiffness of joints noted in the mornings for about duration of greater than 1 hour is invariable. Swelling and tenderness in the joints lead to motion limitation and hence impairment of physical function. These lead to fibrous or bony ankylosis of the joint leading to fixed deformities (Scott et al., 2000).

Mythology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Mythology - Essay Example The single most important fact that springs out from Mythology is that in all ages and times, men have always tried to seek a superhuman if not noble vision of human existence, a vision that irrespective of appearing larger than life, happened to be essentially human and somewhat approachable. Maybe the contemporary humanity may think that myths happen to be ancient, fanciful and untrue stories. Yet, the irony is that this is very true. Myths stand viable evidence to the fact that there are many aspects of human nature and the nature at large that stand beyond the grasp of human comprehension, which could be felt, but perhaps not verbalized. Hence, the humanity took recourse to preserving such phenomenon and facts, by humanizing and characterizing them as the performers in seemingly fanciful tales. I t may sound amazing, but even the modern day humans are not above myths. For instance the contemporary myths regarding aliens, Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), life on Mars, or Dinosa urs are some of the standing examples of the fact that the human urge to imagine beyond what is visible or accessible is as much alive and kicking today as it was in the Roman or Greek times. In that context it would be really interesting to dissect some of the myths mentioned in Mythology. For instance, consider the Myth of Medea, who is presented as a willful, jealous and unremorseful character. The other thing is that Medea is a character that had been grievously wronged. The things done by Medea to seek revenge from her estranged husband could readily be resorted to be a modern day women if placed in such circumstances and situation. It may seem abnormal and strange, but even a cursory perusal of the crime files at any local police station would be sufficient to allay the doubts of any cynical disbeliever. There is one more practical facet to this myth of Medea. Medea is shown to be a sorceress or a witch. Perhaps the sorceresses were considered to be deviant as per the Greek re ligious beliefs and hence the demonization of the character of Medea in the Greek mythology has a socio-political angle to it. Is not the presentation of the character of Media, a sorceress, as a hard hearted and unremorseful individual, somewhat akin to the demonization and burning of the so called witches at Harlem in the American history? Also, for instance, the Oracle of Delphi may sound superstitious and fanciful to a modern person, but it goes without saying that the urge to have a control over future and the desire to be able to predict future is a concept that is as relevant today as it was in the past. The multinational corporations around the world pay millions to the experts to harness their ability to predict the consumer trends in the future, to ascertain whether the stock markets will be bullish or bearish in the future or to predict the feasibility of initiating ventures in a foreign market. The scientists resort to digital models to predict weather, to track the prog ression of global warming or to predict the future changes in the migration patterns of sea creatures. No wonder the modern day man is contemptuous of the Oracles; yet, one has devised multiple high tech oracles of one’s own. On the other side the myth of Oedipus constitutes the cornerstone of

PABLO PICASSO, Les Demoiselles dAvignon Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

PABLO PICASSO, Les Demoiselles dAvignon - Essay Example Picasso made use of different shades of color to bring out harmony within the brothel. For instance, the use of the light blue color is used to bring out the light and curtain and clothing the women are using to cover their bodies. The use of color is used in bring out the differences in the way these women look and the feel of the surrounding. The dark brown colors in some of the women shoe that they are darker than other women. While, two women behind the curtains are shown to have dark faces and this shows they are indigenous women. The colors used in the painting are a hue of light brown, brown and blue colors used to bring out the features of all the five women. These colors complement each other and they are used in perfectly showing the looks of all these women. In terms of space, Picasso did a great job in reducing the space within which the subjects of the painting were placed (Apollinaire 147). The foreground, he made use of dark colors and lighter in the middle ground while at the back, dark colors were also used. The figures of the women were modeled using different hues of light with women in the foreground having light features and those in the background having dark features. The perspective that we get from the picture is that, Picasso gives an expression of women who were standing close to one another. This is because; the light and color of all the women are nearly all the same. Picasso made of straight edged lines and cube like features to show the poor state in which the women were in (Bohm-Duchen 207). The first picture that a person gets when he sees the picture is that the artist has the intention of painting a certain scene in an enclosed room. This is because Picasso does not draw the whole room and only centers on the five women in the brothel (Apollinaire 165). Moreover, Picasso made use of two dimensional figures to

The swine flu clean up Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The swine flu clean up - Essay Example It is noteworthy that the earlier SARS outbreak as well as the Hurricane Katrina were at threat level three and four respectively. Though the current administration has not been found wanting in its response, there are nonetheless several steps that could have been taken to counter the threat of transmission. Swine Flu is a virus that spreads from pigs to humans and then from humans to humans as well. The typical symptoms are coughing, fever and headache with muscular atrophy as well. The greatest risk is not from eating pork but from the spread of the virus from person to person. There has been a widespread belief that the current hype over the swine flu outbreak has largely been media driven and in reality, the outbreak is not as severe as it seems. As the ABC news website puts it, â€Å"As the swirling national media coverage of swine flu nears the end of its first full week, signs are emerging that a certain degree of panic may be gripping the public† (ABC News, 2009). Further, the website adds that, â€Å"While the official case tally in the United States hovers at 64, according to data presented by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today, even suspected cases are edging their way into the public eye†. Thus it is apparent that people by and large are worried over the pandemic and are taking preventive steps to protect themselves and their families against the outbreak. The WHO or the World Health Organization responded immediately to the new threat by convening an emergency meeting where the threat level was raised to 5. According to a prominent news website, â€Å"The World Health Organization called a third emergency meeting in response to a spike in swine flu cases and said the expert panel will discuss Wednesday whether to raise the worldwide flu alert level. After the panels first meeting Saturday, WHO declared the outbreak an international public health emergency and on Monday it raised the pandemic alert level from

The Logic behind Islamic Intolerance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Logic behind Islamic Intolerance - Essay Example According to me, this is an absurd way of living, for any person who believes in religion and its power. If all religions claim to be the truth, then it is basically one belief against another one and hence rules out the name truth in any religion. I think people should believe what they want and have no reason to interfere with what any other person believes in which in most cases could be different. Quoting Osama Bin Laden by nature is an okay point to bring to justify Islamic logic on intolerance. â€Å"Battle animosity and hatred directed from Muslim to the infidel is the foundation of religion. And we consider this a justice and kindness to them† is a quote made by Osama which somehow works for most Islam’s and is supported by millions of Muslims. That their anger and fight on people who do not believe in Allah is a good way to show justice to them, by perhaps killing them is okay. The quote was simply unnecessary for this article. It stirs anger on now Islam's and also portrays the arrogance with which Islam who believe in the quote has. In conclusion, this article definitely claims the lack of hope in the near future for dialogues between leaders of faith for a good cause which is peace. The author, Raymond sees no hope because of the strong beliefs Islam’s have and the lack of seriousness that Westerners view religion. The ability to reach an agreement if people will stop discussing religion and perhaps see to it that peace is restored and everyone can have the freedom to do as they please.

Feasibility of Foreign Retail Firms Entering India Case Study

Feasibility of Foreign Retail Firms Entering India - Case Study Example While formulating the strategies, the organizations’ leader and the management team will firstly look at the factors that may aid them to make a successful entry. After analyzing the positive factors, the firms will or should have to analyze the challenges that may impede their entry. As every foreign market or country will have different political, social, economic and legal conditions as well as different customers, competitors, prospective employees, etc, etc, there will be many challenges, which will block the firms’ success. Also, there will be country specific challenges as well as industry-specific challenges in those foreign markets. For example, the Asian country of India has some distinct aspects, which will surely act as an advantage as well as a challenge for the new firms, who are planning to enter it. Likewise, the retail industry in India also has some inbuilt favourable factors as well as impediments particularly in the political, social, legal and economic spheres, which may facilitate or impede foreign-invested retail firms’ entry. This paper will analyse India and the opportunities and risks, it presents for the retail firms. Globalization is having major impacts on the economic sphere of many developing countries like India, working as a catalyst for economic development. Globalization turned out to be a godsend opportunity to these countries. That is, these countries opened up their markets and invited foreign companies with a slew of schemes and benefits. India has also become part of the global plans of many organizations mainly due to globalization. That is, when globalization or liberation made its entry into in the early 1990s, it opened the door for foreign companies including retail firms (but with caps) to reach India, benefiting both the Indian people and the companies. India has been pursuing the Mode 1 globalization strategy since the economic reforms began under P.V. Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh in 1991. Despite several changes of government and difficulties in implementation, the essential aspects of this international economic strategy have been maintained (Sen 2000).  

Behavioral Issues in Special Education (self-injurous behavior) Essay

Behavioral Issues in Special Education (self-injurous behavior) - Essay Example Many of these children that are given special education are very disturbed and prone to inflicting harm against themselves. According to Fox, C & Hawton, K, self-injury does not really mean that the person wants to commit suicide but rather, a person who cuts or inflicts intentional harm upon himself or herself is hoping to relieve some of tension or emotional pain1 or just simply to manifest his or her frustrations over something. In the case of children with disabilities, their inability to communicate to others can be very frustrating. In most cases, these children express their frustrations by inflicting self-harm and to get the attention that they need. The failure on the part of the adult present to recognize the silent please of the child with disability can make the situation even worst. The child may continue to inflict upon herself or herself until such time when he or she gets what he or she needs. Schoeder, Mulich and Rojahn classified the Self-injurious behaviour (SIB) into two namely, the social and the non-social act. The social SIB often takes place in the social setting and was directly self-injurious such as head banging, self-biting, self-scratching, gouging, pinching and hair pulling [Weiss, 129-143]. Social SIB can happen frequently and may be associated with other forms of behaviour problems. On the other hand, the Non-Social SIB happens less frequently but may tend to inflict more harm u pon the child. Non-social SIB can be manifested through stuffing orifices, mouthing, sucking, rumination, ingestion of faeces, excessive fluid intake and ingestion of air [Weiss, 129-143]. In extreme instances, the injuries inflicted by the child upon himself or herself are so serious that it requires hospitalisation for a few days. Self-injurious behaviour (SIB) in children with learning disabilities and autism is one

Papaya - Lemon Energy Drink Essay Example for Free

Papaya Lemon Energy Drink Essay I. Problem What is the importance of energy drink to our lives? Why ____ is a good Energy Drink? II. Title: III. Rationale Energy drinks are beverages which contain legal stimulants, vitamins and minerals, including caffeine, guarana, taurine, various forms of ginseng, maltodextrin, carnitine and ginkgo biloba. Lemons have high energy content and rich in vitamin C. They are low in calories and high in potassium content. 100 grams of lemon gives 57 kcal energy and 0.9 gram of fat and have 1.7 grams of fiber. These properties of lemon make it a suitable refreshing drink for all including calorie watchers. IV. Materials * Papaya juice * Lemon * Blackstrap Molasses * Chopping Board and Knife, Gloves * Purified water VI. Implication The _______can help us people to be strong in doing any kinds of activities everyday. It will also help a lot in making our body strong and healthy because of the vitamins it has and the price is affordable. It is also less pollution because of the utilization of organic substances so it also helps our environment. I VII. Time Table TASK| TARGET DATE| TEACHER†S DEADLINE| a. Submission of the Problem/Title| | | b. Writing the IP Proposal| | | c. Submission of the IP Proposal| | | d. Investigation Period| | | e. Submission of Gathered Data| | | f. Writing the IP report| | | g. Submission of the IP Written Report| | | h. Making the Exhibit Board| | | i. Preparing for the Oral Defense| | | VIII. Our budget is not that expensive for one of as has already a plant of papaya and a lemon at home we just need to find and buy the Blackstrap molasses which the price is affordable that’s why we are allowed by our parents to do this Investigatory project.

Effects Of The Internet On Travel Agencies Tourism Essay

Effects Of The Internet On Travel Agencies Tourism Essay The internet has provided opportunities for travelers to book their travel directly online thereby circumventing the traditional travel channels i.e. travel agencies. Nowadays even airlines have started encouraging travelers to book tickets directly on their websites thus avoiding having to pay 10% commission to the travel agents. Thus it has made it an urgent need for traditional travel agents to find new methods and strategies to stay in business (Yamanouchi, 2004). While serving as an intermediary channel between travelers and travel service providers, what the internet has done is to eliminate the relevance of the traditional intermediary (travel agents) or at the very least make that traditional role very different in todays practice (Taylor, 2003). Today, would-be travelers can arrange for their own travel by booking straight from the providers themselves via the internet (Law, Leung Wong, 2004). Online travel websites more or less eliminates the need for traditional middlemen, who as Law, Leung Wong (2004) notes; are debatably on the verge of extinction. Internet mediation may ultimately lead to disintermediation of travel agencies since the travel service and product providers can sell their services and products directly to the travel clientele. Yet, the internet and its travel websites does not portend only doom for the travel agents. Travel agents still have the advantage of providing personalized services especially in offering advice to travelers with a personal touch. This ability to make services personal will guarantee that the role of travel agents remains secure. (Law, Leung, Wong, 2004). The internet has become a distribution channel in the travel industry such that the role of traditional intermediaries like travel agents has also changed. Yet rather than be patients of the internet, travel agents have seized the opportunity to employ the internet in their daily operations. Travel agents are using the internet to market themselves and to advertise their services. They are also offering some of their services online (Vrana, Zafiropoulos, 2004). The travel agents themselves have found it easy to make arrangements and bookings over the internet for their clients thus reducing their operational costs. The internet adoption among travel agents has made their services more efficient and timely and gaining a reliable means of communication with their contacts and clients (Vrana, Zafiropoulos, 2004). Literature Review How Travel Agencies Take Advantages of the Internet and Avoid Its Negative Effects on Their Business Travel agents are nowadays using the strategy of If you cant beat them, join them. They have started using the internet to their own advantage by using the internet to market their own services online and by contacting travelers via their own websites. They also provide services that travel sites cannot provide like personalized services and complex travel arrangements and iteneries (Vrana, Zafiropoulos, 2004). Travel agencies also nowadays focus more on building lasting relationships rather than trying to maximize their profits. They do this by providing quality personalized services. This is a strategy adopted by most travel agencies in Japan (Zhang, 2004). By so doing, travel agencies are today exploiting the internet opportunities such as virtue communities, to build what travel websites cannot, personalized relationships with clients (Maurer, 2002). This way, they can exploit the benefits that come with the internet, and avoid losing their role in mediating travel, by making their services uniquely personalized. Travel agents form networks, create newly branded travel services, exploit the internet to market themselves, get specialist packages and products unveiled by online agencies and seek to provide consumers with competitive deals if they have to survive (Downes, Legg, 2006). Why People Book Over the Internet Customers mainly book over the internet since it is convenient, cost saving, and resourceful. It is more accessible and less expensive. Travelers also can compare the various rates offered by different service providers and thus make a much more informed choice. Online service providers offer more competitive rates and better discounts due to the low operational costs. Customers can also access extensive amount of information on the internet. It is also very useful for working professionals who do not have time to go and meet travel agents to make their travel plans when they can just do their booking when they are at work or at home (Heung, 2003). Customers also have the opportunities of learning more about the places they are visiting from the internet and thus able to book hotels online. The bottom line that one is able to make all arrangements needed before traveling without involving any intermediary as long as he or she has access to internet. The advent of internet has also been coupled with people acquiring personal computers and internet providers thus bringing the technology closer to the people (Lewis, Ira, Semeijn, Janjaap, Talalayevsky, Alexander, 1998). Why People Book with Travel Agents The main reasons why customers book via travel agents are the security concerns (credit card scams), interpersonal communication i.e. face to face transactions, human contact in transactions, and ability to make custom made travel packages as opposed to by travel websites (Vrana, Zafiropoulos, 2004). Travel agents are able to make all arrangements for their clients unlike in travel websites for example hotel bookings, sightseeing bookings, airport drop and pickup, and flight tickets, something they might not be able to or might lack the time to do (Buhalis, Licata, 2002). Most clients who go to travel agents are also those who want to build relationships with their travel facilitators and those who need the guarantee of human element in transactions (Cheyne, Downes, Legg, 2006). There are some circumstances where by customers are left with no choices other than using the agents. This happens mostly in situations whereby one has to pass through different destinations. It is very hard to do several online bookings when one is traveling as it means dealing with many different entities. When one has to pass through different destinations, it is easier to use the international agents who have offices in different places around the world. By doing this one is able to deal with one company because he just have to state his or her demands to the agent and all his needs will be taken care of. (The Travel Insider, 2010). Repeat Clients in Online Booking Customers will go to the same website and online portals or directly to particular service providers using the internet if such providers have created brand name of products, built global marketing, have lower cost due to discounts, facilitates labor saving means and if they have standardized processes, products and service delivery (Vrana, Zafiropoulos, 2004). Improved service delivery and competitive website features are the main ongoing preferences for online service providers in Hong Kong (Chu, 2001). Another reason why customers repeatedly use one online service provider is that they were initially satisfied with the service that was provided and do not want to research another serviced provider (Cheyne, Downes, Legg, 2006). Repeat Clients for a Travel Agent Customers mainly repeatedly book via travel agents due to the relationship that they have built with that travel agent (Vrana, Zafiropoulos, 2004). Therefore travel agents in Japan are using this strategy of building lasting relationships with customers to improve business rather than just focusing on maximizing profits by trying to attract more customers (Zhang, 2003). If a customer is satisfied with a travel plan that a particular travel agent has made for them they prefer using the same travel agent to make all their future travel plans. Therefore providing good quality service also generates repeat clientele for travel agents (Wyne et al., 2001). Demographics Characteristics that Predetermine Online Booking and that of Travel Agency Booking The choice of internet and travel agent booking is influenced by sex, age, education, income, and occupational characteristics of customers (Furr, Bon, 1998). Studies indicate that internet bookings are mainly made by females aged between 21 and 30, educated and earning high incomes and working in education related professions who prefer commercial lodgings during travel and who predominantly prefer to travel by air (Heung, 2003). On the other hand the demographics of non- internet travel agent users is mainly married men traveling with families on a long vacation from medium earning brackets aged between 36 to 45 years. This is mainly because when traveling with families travel agents can provide much more extensive information on the types of hotels and which types of hotels offer certain types of services and also they provide information on the different types of sightseeing options and which one would suit the familys requirements best (Heung, 2003). Effects of Airlines on Internet Bookings The industry of travel agency involves communication and processing information of its clients. Initially, the agencies had access to details of flights so the customers had no alternative. The fact the airlines are able to do their advertising online and directly to the customers and the customers are able to apply for their travel tickets online has affected the travel agencies a lot. It is also of paramount importance to note that airlines have realized this trend and have thus reduced fares, as they no longer pay the commissions they used to pay the agents (Bennett, Marion, Lai, Chi-Wen, Kevin, 2005). The customers needs have also changed significantly in their demands due to the development in IT since one is able to learn all the exotic places there are to visit at the touch of a button. It is more convenient for a customer to do his or her research at the convenience of his or her sitting other than going to an agent. It is worthy noting that it is cheaper to book online since one will be dealing with the airline directly without involving an intermediary. The airlines are also happy to serve their customers directly for they will be able to understand their needs more. The advent of the internet technology gave the airlines an opportunity to be close to their clients and they realized that the need for an intermediary is not that important. (Frias, Rodrà ­gueza, Castanedaa, 2008). It is important to note that a minute means a lot in the amount one may pay for an air ticket since the fares change from time to time. When one is passing through many points, it is less demanding to use the agent for they will be able to fix his or her time according to the lowest fares possible. By doing this you end up saving money and time since you will be having someone who will be taking care of your travel plans. When one is doing booking, it is important to do research so as not end up paying more than what he would have paid through an agent (Farooqui, 2010). Refernces Bennett, Marion; Lai, Chi-Wen Kevin (November 2005)The impact of the internet on travel agencies in Taiwan http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/pal/thr/2005/00000006/00000001/art00002 Buhalis, D., Licata, C. (2002). The future of eTourism intermediaries. Tourism Cheyne, J., Downes, M., Legg, S. (2006). Travel Agent vs Internet: What influences travel consumer choices? Journal of Vacation Marketing. 12(1), 41 Chu, R. (2001). What online Hong Kong travelers look for on airline/travel websites? International Journal of Hospitality Management. 20(1), 95-100. Farooqui, S. (2010, April 20). Travel Agent and Internet Marketing Impact, Benefits, and Planning. Retrieved June 9, 2010, from http://ezinearticles.com/?Travel- ­Agent- ­and- ­Internet- ­Marketing- ­- ­- ­Impact,- ­Benefits,- ­and- ­Planningid=4141656. Fields, J. (2007). Great weather, deserted beach, wonderful holiday. The Sunday Herald. March 25. Frà ­as D. M, Rodrà ­gueza M. A., Castaà ±edaa J. A,(Feb 2008) Internet vs. travel agencies on pre-visit destination image formation: An information processing view , Retrieved June 09,2010, from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL_udi=B6V9R-4NKJ174-1_user=10_coverDate=02%2F29%2F2008_rdoc=1_fmt=high_orig=search_sort=d_docanchor=view=c_searchStrId=1364306231_rerunOrigin=google_acct=C000050221_version=1_urlVersion=0_userid=10md5=192643fd560ef019b68e8e8f888325e2 Heung, V. (2003). Internet usage by international travellers: reasons and barriers. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. 15(7), 370-378 Law, R., Leung K., Wong, J. (2004).The Impact of the Internet on Travel agencies. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality management. 16(2), 100 107. Lewis, Ira, Semeijn, Janjaap, Talalayevsky, Alexander(June 22 1998) The impact of information technology on travel agents. Retrieved June 09, 2010 from http://www.allbusiness.com/technology/695794-1.html Machon, N. (2008). High-street travel agents are losing out to their online rivals (Survey). New Media Age. Available at http://www.nma.co.uk/opinion/analyst-speak-high-street-travel-agents-are-losing-out-to-their-online-rivals/39912.article Management. 23(3), 207-220. Maurer, E. (2002). Internet for the Retail Travel Industry. London: Delmar Cengage learning. Monaghan, K. (2006). The Travel Agents Complete Desk Reference. New York: The Intrepid Traveler. Murray, M. (1999). Tripped-up travel agents. National Journal. 31(49), 34-79. The Travel Insider (15 May 2010) Airfare Wars Internet vs. Travel Agencies Retrieved June 09,2010, from http://thetravelinsider.info/2002/0614.htm Vogel, H. (2001). Travel industry economics: a guide for financial analysis. Cambridge: University of Cambridge Press. Vrana, V., Zafiropoulos, C. (2004). Tourism agents attitudes on internet adoption: an analysis from Greece. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. 18 (7), 601-608 Wyne, C. Et al. (2001). The impact of the Internet on the Distribution Value Chain: The Case of the South African Tourism Industry. International Marketing Review. Vol. 18 (4). pp. 420 431. Zhang, Z. (2004). Organizing customers: Japanese travel agencies marketing on the Internet. European Journal of Marketing. 38(9/10), 1294-1303

The Publishing Career of Isabella Whitney Essay -- Author Writer Isabe

The Publishing Career of Isabella Whitney The English Renaissance was a time of great literature. The world was changing and people were exploring their boundaries. In a time of such opportunity, women were often excluded. For instance, it was very difficult for women to receive education. Even if they did, it was extremely difficult for them to be accepted as writers and nearly impossible to have their work published. Only a small number of women writers succeeded in having their works published because of the many social barriers. One of the few women to overcome these obstacles was Isabella Whitney. She grew up in a middle-class family in Cheshire, England. Little is known about her family except that she was the sister of the Protestant poet Geoffrey Whitney, who wrote Choice of Emblems (Todd). She worked for aristocratic households where she encountered many opportunities to learn, but she was never formally educated (Krontiris). In addition to this self-education, she spent a lot of time reading, which enriched her knowledge. During the Renaissance, it was looked down on when women read anything other than the Bible. People thought that women must have Divine intervention to guide their interpretations of literature; if they did not they were looked at suspiciously (Krontiris). This shows that during the English Renaissance women were viewed as being basically incompetent. They were not thought of as even being capable enough to read something and interpret it for themselves. Knowing this, Whitney had a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to be a successful poet. She tried to avoid criticism in many different ways. For instance, Isabella Whitney was the first professional woman poet in British literatu... ... make a way for themselves. It is strange to think about what the world would be like today if not for women like Isabella Whitney. If not for her, women might still be prohibited from publishing their written works. She and the women who followed in her footsteps created the opening of minds that allowed the possibility of women’s equality to men. I am sure Whitney had no idea the impact she would make not only on literature, but on women, and the world. Works Cited Clark, Danielle. The Politics of Early Modern Women’s Writing. England. Pearson Education Limited, 2001. Krontiris, Tina. Oppositional Voices: Women As Writers and Translators of Literature in the English Renaissance. London. New York: Routledge Publishing, 1992. Todd, Janet. British Women Writers A Critical Reference Guide. Continuum New York: Continuum Publishing Company, 1989. The Publishing Career of Isabella Whitney Essay -- Author Writer Isabe The Publishing Career of Isabella Whitney The English Renaissance was a time of great literature. The world was changing and people were exploring their boundaries. In a time of such opportunity, women were often excluded. For instance, it was very difficult for women to receive education. Even if they did, it was extremely difficult for them to be accepted as writers and nearly impossible to have their work published. Only a small number of women writers succeeded in having their works published because of the many social barriers. One of the few women to overcome these obstacles was Isabella Whitney. She grew up in a middle-class family in Cheshire, England. Little is known about her family except that she was the sister of the Protestant poet Geoffrey Whitney, who wrote Choice of Emblems (Todd). She worked for aristocratic households where she encountered many opportunities to learn, but she was never formally educated (Krontiris). In addition to this self-education, she spent a lot of time reading, which enriched her knowledge. During the Renaissance, it was looked down on when women read anything other than the Bible. People thought that women must have Divine intervention to guide their interpretations of literature; if they did not they were looked at suspiciously (Krontiris). This shows that during the English Renaissance women were viewed as being basically incompetent. They were not thought of as even being capable enough to read something and interpret it for themselves. Knowing this, Whitney had a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to be a successful poet. She tried to avoid criticism in many different ways. For instance, Isabella Whitney was the first professional woman poet in British literatu... ... make a way for themselves. It is strange to think about what the world would be like today if not for women like Isabella Whitney. If not for her, women might still be prohibited from publishing their written works. She and the women who followed in her footsteps created the opening of minds that allowed the possibility of women’s equality to men. I am sure Whitney had no idea the impact she would make not only on literature, but on women, and the world. Works Cited Clark, Danielle. The Politics of Early Modern Women’s Writing. England. Pearson Education Limited, 2001. Krontiris, Tina. Oppositional Voices: Women As Writers and Translators of Literature in the English Renaissance. London. New York: Routledge Publishing, 1992. Todd, Janet. British Women Writers A Critical Reference Guide. Continuum New York: Continuum Publishing Company, 1989.

Essay --

As children growing up, we tend to imitate and aspire to be like the people we look up to. Looking back at my childhood, my passion for teaching and working with children comes as no surprise. When I was in 5th grade a young boy my age was as others stated to be "different." Teaching him, reading to him on the bus, and just always wanting to get to know him made me realize how much I would like to do this professionally. Seeing how the grown ups interacted, and was so effective with children really amused me. I had been surrounded by children my whole life, and as I got older, I would try my best to lend a hand and help all the other children that has disablities. After my first experience in a school, I grew fond of working with students in a classroom setting. I began looking up teacher development workshops, and graduate courses to expand my knowledge about what possibly would happen if I went into the special education feild, in order to support and apply while teaching at the t ime. After becoming familiar with the different realms of education I became aware of a few things. I ...

Justice and Morality in Platos Republic Essay examples -- justice as

Introduction This essay discusses and clarifies a concept that is central to Plato's argument in the Republic — an argument in favour of the transcendent value of justice as a human good; that justice informs and guides moral conduct. Plato's argument implies that justice and morality are intimately interconnected, because the excellence and goodness of human life — the best way for a person to live — is intimately dependent upon and closely interwoven with those 'things that we find desirable in themselves and for their consequences [1]. Hence, we acknowledge that Plato Is moral thesis cannot be interpreted either as a deontological or as a consequentialist argument — or as an act centred or agent centred moral concept. Plato's thesis is informative, in philosophical terms, precisely because it enables us to find new and more fruitful ways of looking at those basic questions concerning justice and morality, and the manner in which they are interrelated [2]. In the Republic Plato endeavours to answer complex questions about justice by introducing a unique account of what justice actually is, and how morally sensitive people are educated and informed about the real nature of justice and morality [3]. Our understanding of justice is more profound if we insist that what really matters is not merely the observance of external demands — normative and conventional moral rules — but the character of the truly just person [4]. Justice and goodness, based upon judgement as the virtue of a decent life, are seen as congruent in the context of a well ordered society. Plato's fundamental claim, in the Republic, is that justice is so great a good that anyone who completely embraces it is thereby better off, even in the face of the... ...4-225 [19] Rep. VI 573d & ibid., p.221-222) [20] ibid., p.327 [21] Nagel, 1986, pp. 195-196 [22] Rep VII, 540a-b [23] Rep. V, 46le-462e [24] Rep. IV, 419a-421c & Rep. VIII, 519d-521b [25] Annas, 1981, pp. 321-334 & White, 1979, pp.43-54 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BIBLIOGRAPHY Annas, Julia An Introduction to Plato's Republic Oxford 1981; Chapter 3, pp. 59-71; Chapter 6 pp. 53-169; Chapter 13, pp. 331-334 Irwin, Terence Plato's Ethics Oxford 1995; Chapter 12, pp. 181-202 Kraut, Richard (Ed.) The Cambridge Companion to Plato Cambridge 1992; Chapter 10, pp. 311-337 Nagel, Thomas The View from Nowhere Oxford 1986; Chapter X, pp. 189-207 Waterfield, Robin (Tr.) Plato's Republic Oxford 1993 White, Nicholas A Companion to Plato's Republic Indianapolis 1979 Justice and Morality in Plato's Republic Essay examples -- justice as Introduction This essay discusses and clarifies a concept that is central to Plato's argument in the Republic — an argument in favour of the transcendent value of justice as a human good; that justice informs and guides moral conduct. Plato's argument implies that justice and morality are intimately interconnected, because the excellence and goodness of human life — the best way for a person to live — is intimately dependent upon and closely interwoven with those 'things that we find desirable in themselves and for their consequences [1]. Hence, we acknowledge that Plato Is moral thesis cannot be interpreted either as a deontological or as a consequentialist argument — or as an act centred or agent centred moral concept. Plato's thesis is informative, in philosophical terms, precisely because it enables us to find new and more fruitful ways of looking at those basic questions concerning justice and morality, and the manner in which they are interrelated [2]. In the Republic Plato endeavours to answer complex questions about justice by introducing a unique account of what justice actually is, and how morally sensitive people are educated and informed about the real nature of justice and morality [3]. Our understanding of justice is more profound if we insist that what really matters is not merely the observance of external demands — normative and conventional moral rules — but the character of the truly just person [4]. Justice and goodness, based upon judgement as the virtue of a decent life, are seen as congruent in the context of a well ordered society. Plato's fundamental claim, in the Republic, is that justice is so great a good that anyone who completely embraces it is thereby better off, even in the face of the... ...4-225 [19] Rep. VI 573d & ibid., p.221-222) [20] ibid., p.327 [21] Nagel, 1986, pp. 195-196 [22] Rep VII, 540a-b [23] Rep. V, 46le-462e [24] Rep. IV, 419a-421c & Rep. VIII, 519d-521b [25] Annas, 1981, pp. 321-334 & White, 1979, pp.43-54 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BIBLIOGRAPHY Annas, Julia An Introduction to Plato's Republic Oxford 1981; Chapter 3, pp. 59-71; Chapter 6 pp. 53-169; Chapter 13, pp. 331-334 Irwin, Terence Plato's Ethics Oxford 1995; Chapter 12, pp. 181-202 Kraut, Richard (Ed.) The Cambridge Companion to Plato Cambridge 1992; Chapter 10, pp. 311-337 Nagel, Thomas The View from Nowhere Oxford 1986; Chapter X, pp. 189-207 Waterfield, Robin (Tr.) Plato's Republic Oxford 1993 White, Nicholas A Companion to Plato's Republic Indianapolis 1979

Defining Humanities Essay

Humanities is the study of language, philosophy, communication, environment, history, religion, sociology, arts, culture, education and ethics. The word humanities originally comes from the Latin word, â€Å"humanus. † The word humanus means â€Å"human. † To be â€Å"human† is to possess the qualities and attributes of man. Being human also has the feelings and dispositions proper to man. However, humanities as the study of the different cultural aspects analyzes man’s weaknesses in life and how each can be improved. Culture includes speech, knowledge, beliefs, arts, technologies, ideals, and rules. To be cultured means to be refined and well versed in arts, philosophy, and the languages. It is also to be learned about great men and leaders in the past. Culture should regulate the type of behavior considered appropriate to an individual. Its teaching is essential for one to obtain the proper knowledge in his efforts to achieve the status of being a cultured man. On the other hand, understanding man and his affairs rather than just a body of accepted facts and theories is a purpose for humanities. It has various meanings in different historical periods, but it is only the same. This sums up to remind everyone about humanity. Humanities dealt with philosophy and theology in the 12th, 13th centuries and Renaissance period. This was the study of disciplines among languages, fine arts, music, and philosophy. Recognizing literature defined humanities in the past. There were different types of performing arts such as music, dance, theatre, philosophy, and religion. Humanities supported various categories of literature. Each and every one of these types were study academically. in the early centuries. Humanities is still an ongoing study of today and the future.

Advantage of Using Mobile

Health Effects Electromagnetic radiation from cell phones may cause health problems. Rigorous studies are being carried out to know about the negative effects of cell phones. Sleep deprivation, stress and brain problems have been linked to overuse of cell phones, and are considered as the possible effects of cell phone radiation. Some studies have reported that cell phone usage can trigger male infertility symptoms. But nothing has been proved yet, though we can lessen mobile use to some extent. Children Suffer Children have been found to have some worrisome effects of mobile phone usage.Since they have weaker immune system, thinner skin and developing nervous system, waves generated from mobile phones can harm their body cells. It has been found that children can absorb radio waves to a far greater extent than adults. Legal Issues Mobile phones come with cameras and hence this has led to hundreds of thousands of cases pending in courts about privacy problems. There have been instanc es in the past, in countries like Saudi Arabia, Japan, Korea, where a ban was imposed on camera phones, making it a strict rule to sell only those cell phones that come with an appreciable click sound!Moreover, crime rate has also increased with miscreants like robbers and terrorists pursuing their nefarious schemes through mobile phones. Driving and Mobile Phones If not anything, this is certainly one of the most dangerous disadvantages of cell phones. In the US, cell phone and driving have become a major concern among traffic officials. The seriousness of this issue in the eyes of the federal government was highlighted when a US court in 2009, imposed a whopping million dollar fine for talking on phone while driving, on a Texan driver.It is the highest fine imposed in the world, for someone using mobile phone while driving. Many accidents can be averted if people are cautious, and avoid cell phone usage while driving. Advantages and Disadvantages of Mobile Phones in Business Here are some advantages of mobile phones in business. †¢It's easier to contact employees, staff members and clients. Mobile phone is useful in sales and marketing business. †¢For business people, mobile number is the first thing their clients/customers ask, in case, they're interested in the business idea/product. †¢In business, you can't meet everyone.With cell phones you can contact the person and even talk as per his time and convenience. Moreover, you can have more time at your disposal to talk. †¢Business people can check emails, keep reminders about meetings, conferences and record details of business etc. even in small gadgets like mobile phones. †¢With inexpensive phone plans for corporate firms, business networking has been redefined. Mobile phones come with several disadvantages in business. They are as follows. †¢Business people can often feel stressed due to constant calls. This is true for telemarketers. Even consumers get baffled due to variou s calls.Some employers who give the facility of cell phones to their employees are often afraid of potential costs that the firm has to bear. But then, these days, call rates are pretty inexpensive and people avoid using business sim cards for their personal usage. Hence, this disadvantage is not a big concern. †¢In general, landline numbers still indicate authenticity and if you glance around, every large business group will, for sure, have a landline number. For an effective business firm, landline number is important. Any change that transforms our society (for the good or bad, both) effect every age group.Several schools of thoughts have raised their voice for various advantages of mobile phones for students. Being in touch with parents and for seeking help during emergencies, are some of the advantages of mobile phones in school but more than that, I don't think students must be allowed to carry cell phones in schools. Cell phones for kids: pros and cons are many, and the school management and parents must consider properly before allowing kids to carry mobile phones in school. Studies have reported that mobile phones have been used by students for cheating in tests, arranging drug deals, thereby causing distraction in studies.Till today, cell phone use in schools is a highly debated topic. This was all about the advantages and disadvantages of mobile phones. Certainly, too much of everything is bound to have negative implications. Since the last few years, cell phone radiations have been said to be a prominent problem and as the number of cell phone users are increasing day by day, medical threats are bound to increase. While we can wait and watch for more medical and scientific evidences supporting medical concerns about mobile usage, as an individual, we can try to restrict mobile phone usage.

A Debate on Political Philosophy: Hamilton Versus Jefferson Essay

In the late 1700s to the early 1800s, the United States was in need of a political philosophy that interpreted the Constitution loosely, avoided possibly catastrophic wars, and built up the economy in the easiest and most efficient way possible, all which were found best in Alexander Hamilton. Hamilton believed that the time called for a loose interpretation, or construction, of the Constitution. He and his Federalist followers invoked the idea of â€Å"elastic clause†, a way in which the people could bend exactly what the Founding Fathers were saying to help make it apply to the problems of the time. See more: Foot Binding In China essay The nation and her Constitution were still young and growing, and the ability to form the government as the country progressed was essential to having any national growth at all. Jefferson, on the other hand, believed in a strict construction of the Constitution and the rights of individual states, not federal unity like Hamilton did. Unfortunately, it was clear to many that the rights of individual states, similar to the states’ rights that they had experienced under the Articles of Confederation, were not making the nation stronger, but instead getting each state into more trouble, politically and economically. Foreign affairs also impacted why Hamilton’s Federalist philosophy worked for the time. As the United States was just coming out of a war, we were weak: militarily, economically, and politically. The last thing that we needed was to enter into the French Revolutionary War that held enormous stakes. The Jeffersonians, however, favored honoring the 1778 French-American Alliance that we had made, in order to repay them for helping us win our freedom, even though the French had never officially called on America to honor the alliance. George Washington, sensing that war would be too much for such a fragile nation, issued the 1793 Neutrality Proclamation warning Americans not to be partial to either side, so America would be better protected. Hamilton’s economic policies and financial system was also the most effective way to build the new economy up. Hamilton’s policies were shaped to favor the wealthy, but in such a way that the wealthy would lend the government money and give it political support, which would then cause the federal regime to strive, higher classes to fatten and grow with new wealth, and prosperity to trickle to the masses. Hamilton believed in forming a national credit out of all the states debts, as well as creating a Bank of the United States to have the government support itself in stock. Jefferson believed, contrary to Hamilton’s more â€Å"urban† views of economic progress, that rural and private farming would be the fairest way to build up the economy – from the bottom classes up. However, this would have been a very time consuming process and was therefore not suited for the infant America, who needed to grow quickly to find its place in the rest of the world. Jefferson also thought a Bank of the United States was unconstitutional and forbidden by the Founding Fathers instructions in the Constitution. However, Hamilton proved that the Constitution permitted it by showing how the Constitution stipulates that Congress may pass any laws â€Å"necessary and proper† to carry out the powers vested in the various government agencies, including the powers to collect taxes and regulate trade, therefore making a communal bank for the nation ideal and very beneficial to building and supporting an economy. In today’s American, however, Jefferson’s philosophy would be much better suited. Today, it seems as though we have almost lost track of what the Founding Fathers wanted for this country, so going back to a stricter construction of the Constitution would stop many of the questionable laws passed thanks to an overly bendable elastic clause. Also, since the United States has been caught up in meddling in so many other nations’ political affairs as of late, we need to be reminded of honoring our alliances and keeping an open mind when dealing with other countries that are in a current struggle. Now that we are an experienced nation in how to achieve and maintain independence, we are strong enough to help other countries do the same, although we would not have been in 1789 for the French Revolution. Finally, today’s America has a very strong and stubborn upper class that, much of the time, promises to allow profit to trickle through to the extremely large middle class but does not follow through with those plans. Since it is too hard to work with the upper class to give prosperity to the lower classes, using Jefferson’s philosophy of building up from the bottom, though it make take a while, will eventually work and make the American more equal. Overall, Hamilton’s ideas of a more loose construction of the Constitution, caution when it came to foreign affairs, and working through the wealthy to give prosperity to all Americans were well suited to the late 1700s and early 1800s. However, now that times are different, Jefferson’s ideas are more applicable to our country’s needs of a more regulated government, more positive foreign affairs and well thought out foreign policies, and an equal economy that starts with helping the lower and middle classes to expand and grow in their own way.