Justification and Crisis of Modern Science Essay

Justification and Crisis of Modern Science - Essay Example He clearly understood the Deists and was greatly influenced by the brilliant Unitarians in social concepts. Rene Descartes on the other hand was known to be the vicar of modern science. He initiated a new clear means of thinking about science and philosophy through ignoring all notions centered on supposition or emotional conviction and concurring with the ideas proved by direct observation (Dunn, 1999). The ultimate aim of this paper is to examine how John Locke attempted to justify modern science in terms of bringing in his own ideas and views as a way to bridge the gap between Descarte’s res cogitans and res extensa. It also examines the way he was opposed by several other scholars Locke’s Justification of Modern Science John Locke was one of the most influential especially in An Essay about Human Understanding (1690), fundamentally rejected the Cartesian theory of the continuation of innate notions – like that of God, or time without end – and upholded that the infant during birth has no any form of knowledge and he compared it to a blank page, and in severe terms, it does not stay alive yet. It is important to note that when he selects the subject of his title, Locke never used the term â€Å"mind† which could propose a notion of something really stays alive like an object or a permanent structure (Dunn, 1999). In opposition to that, he chose the term â€Å"understanding† which proposes the idea of a continous process. What he meant here is that a child is never born with any knowledge and he only gets to understand things once hegrows up. This is because Locke believed that knowledge is mainly based on learning from â€Å"expereince†. According to him, a newly born baby has no form of expereince therefore has no type of knowledge. Although Locke understood that expereince depicts two forms – one centered on â€Å"reflection† or reasoning and the other on â€Å"sensation†, he openly impl ied that all automated expereinces are secondary derived from those obtained through the senses (Dunn, 1999). This happens even if the mind may generate completely new forms of automated expereince. This means that reflection is not only the meager copy of sensation, although its natural fabricis developed from it. It is clear from the theory of Human Understanding that Locke supported Modern science which suggests similar notions about human beings. Modern science assumes a child to be of little knowledge who does what he does not understand. For example, a baby can relieve himself and still eat the same waste because he doe not understand what he is doing. At the same time, a child can dare touch fire or hot substance and until it burns him is when he realizes that that is dangerous. Therefore, modern science and Jonk Locke’s theory of Human Understanding are more less the same because they contain same notions about human being. Although Locke was sometimes depicted as a c hristian due to his attendance and knowledge about church, he evidently attempted to justify modern science. Moreover, his other influential theory is that of availability of simple and complicated ideas. According to him, both of them belong to fields of expereince (Dunn, 1999). While simple notions are basically data that is received by the mind meaning that it is non-reducible to more basic ones. Complicated notions on the other hand are made up of a combination of basic ones. This theory was very instrumental during the aristotle

The OSI model Essay Example for Free

The OSI model Essay Question: Write a 2-3 page paper describing the OSI model and how it relates to a network. Your response should include answers to the following: †¢ On which layers of the OSI model do WAN protocols operate? †¢ What are some of these protocols? †¢ On which OSI layers do switches and routers operate? †¢ If routers reside at more than one layer, what is the difference between the OSI layers? Introduction: The OSI model was introduced in 1984. Although it was designed to be an abstract model, the OSI model remains a practical framework for todays key network technologies like Ethernet and protocols like IP. The OSI model defines internetworking in terms of a vertical stack of seven layers. The upper layers of the OSI model represent software that implements network services like encryption and connection management. The lower layers of the OSI model implement more primitive, hardware-oriented functions like routing, addressing, and flow control. In the OSI model, data communication starts with the top layer at the sending side, travels down the OSI model stack to the bottom layer, then traverses the network connection to the bottom layer on the receiving side, and up its OSI model stack. How OSI model relates to a network: Information being transferred from a software application in one computer system to a software application in another must pass through the OSI layers. For example, if a software application in System A has information to transmit to a software application in System B, the application program  in System A will pass its information to the application layer (Layer 7) of System A. The application layer then passes the information to the presentation layer (Layer 6), which relays the data to the session layer (Layer 5), and so on down to the physical layer (Layer 1). At the physical layer, the information is placed on the physical network medium and is sent across the medium to System B. The physical layer of System B removes the information from the physical medium, and then its physical layer passes the information up to the data link layer (Layer 2), which passes it to the network layer (Layer 3), and so on, until it reaches the application layer (Layer 7) of System B. Finally, the application layer of System B passes the information to the recipient application program to complete the communication process. Interaction Between OSI Model Layers A given layer in the OSI model generally communicates with three other OSI layers: the layer directly above it, the layer directly below it, and its peer layer in other networked computer systems. The data link layer in System A, for example, communicates with the network layer of System A, the physical layer of System A, and the data link layer in System B. The following figure illustrates this example. Figure : OSI Model Layers Communicate with Other Layers On which layers of the OSI model do WAN protocols operate? A WAN protocols is a data communication protocols which is use in the data communications network that covers a relatively broad geographic area and that often uses transmission facilities provided by common carriers, such as telephone companies. WAN Protocol in WAN technologies, generally function at the lower three layers of the OSI reference model which layers are as following: †¢ Physical layer †¢ Data link layer, and †¢ Network layer. Following figure illustrates the relationship between the common WAN technologies and the OSI model. Figure : OSI Model Layers and WAN Technology specification What are some of these protocols? some protocols which are also operated in the WAN technology are PPP, X.25 etc. On which OSI layers do switches and routers operate? The Network Layer of the OSI model is responsible for establishing paths for data transfer through the network and router are the devices which are used to establishes the path for data transfer. So, routers operate at the Network Layer. And Data Link Layer of the OSI model is responsible for communications between adjacent network nodes. Hubs and switches operate at the Data Link Layer. If routers reside at more than one layer, what is the difference between the OSI layers? Routers generally do not reside at more than one layer, because the router devices are operated in the network layer and they can apply the data link headers when they switch the packet interface and put the signals at the physical layer wires . In this way the routers do work on three different levels, but each job is separate and distinct per layer.

Human Genome Project Essay -- Science Genetics Papers

Human Genome Project Essay The Human Genome Initiative is a worldwide research effort that has the goal of analyzing the sequence of human DNA and determining the location of all human genes. Begun in 1990, the U.S. Human Genome project was originally planned to last 15 years but now is projected to be complete in 13 years. This project was started to find the 80,000 - 100,000 human genes and to determine the sequence of the 3 - billion chemical bases that make up human DNA. The information generated by the human genome project is expected to be the source book for biomedical fields, including those such as developmental biology and neurobiology, where scientists are just beginning to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms. The human genome project is expected to immensely benefit medical science. It will help us to understand and eventually treat many of the more than 4000 genetic diseases that afflict mankind, as well as the many multifunctional diseases in which genetic predisposition plays an impor tant role. New technologies emanating from the genome project will also find application in other fields such as agriculture and the environmental sciences. The human genome consists of 50,000 to 100,000 genes located on 23 pairs of chromosomes. One chromosome in each pair is inherited from the mother, and the other from the father. Each chromosome contains a long molecule of DNA, the molecule of which genes are made. The order of the four bases on the DNA strand determines the information content of a particular gene or piece of DNA. Mapping is the process of determining the position and spacing of genes, or other genetic landmarks, on the chromosomes relative to one another. The possibility of initiating such a maj... ...From Maps to Medicine: Hereditary Colon Cancer. "Hereditary Colon Cancer", Obtained from WWW 10/20/99: http://www.nhgri.nih.gov/Policy_and_public_affairs/Communications/Publications/Maps_to_medicine/colon.html. U.S. Dept. of Energy. Human Genome Project Information. "HGP Announce Accelerated Completion Date of Working Draft", Obtained from WWW 10/19/99:5/28/99: http://www.ornl.gov/hgmis/project/update.html. U.S. Dept. of Energy. Human Genome Project Information. "Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues (ELSI) of the Human Genome Project", Obtained from WWW 10/19/99:9/7/99: http://www.ornl.gov/TechResources/Human_Genome/resource/elsi.html. U.S. Dept. of Energy. Understanding our Genetic Inheritance the U.S. Human Genome Project. "The first Five Years: Fiscal Years 1991-1995", Obtained from WWW 10/19/99:1/13/99: http://www.ornl.gov/hgmis/project/5yrplan/intro.html.

Eagle Boys Pizza Report Essay

Founded by a young baker in his mum’s garage in 1987, Eagle Boys now operates more than 335 stores throughout all states of Australia. It is one hundred per cent Australian owned and operated and delivers pizzas to hungry families across Australia – from metropolitan inner city areas to small remote towns. With over 8,000 team members nationally, Eagle Boys makes just under 18 million pizzas a year and generates an annual turnover of more than $200 million. Focused on delivering real taste, real size and real value to pizza lovers across Australia, Eagle Boys is customer-focused and continually examines ways to improve its customer satisfaction and service. Eagle Boys ensures pizza lovers across Australia receive tasty meals and exceptional service every time by training its franchises to commit 110% to customers’ satisfaction. Explanation of its legal structure Eagle Boys pizza is a Proprietary company, meaning that it is private. The shareholders of Eagle Boys Pizza Pty Ltd, have limited liability protection, which means that the most money they can lose is the amount they paid for their shares. Eagle Boys began as a family business, as it was founded by Tom Potter and his mum in 1989. It is an incorporated business, meaning that the business is a separate legal entity from the owners. This allowed the business to be sold and still be operated, in 2007 to Todd Clayton who is now the CEO and managing director of Eagle Boys Pizza. The fact that it is a separate legal entity, allows the company to sue, be sued, buy or sell property and also have perpetual succession. Identification of the current stage of the business life cycle the business is currently in and give reasons for your views Eagle Boys pizza is currently at the maturity stage of the business cycle. Its goal is to maintain profits at pre-existing levels. Recently, in February 2011, Eagle Boys responded to the growing sophistication of Australians’ pizza palate by unveiling its new Gourmet Pizza Range featuring ingredients such as, Roasted Potato, Salmon Steaks and Tandoori Chicken. Eagle Boys is also the only Australian pizza maker to offer Ready 2 Go! â„ ¢, which allows customers to get their hands on some of their favourite pizzas without phoning beforehand or waiting between 5. 30pm and 8pm daily. Since Eagle Boys was purchased by private equity firm NBC Capital and the current executive team in 2007, Network store numbers have grown by 63% which is the highest period of growth in the company’s 24-year history. Eagle Boys saw sales grow 15. 4% during the 12 months up to June 2010, bringing total sales growth during the past three years to 43. 2%. The company expects the strong double digit growth to continue with the opening of additional stores and the launch of new products. Identification of one business law and one regulatory body in relation to this business – explain how this business complies An example of a business law of the Eagle Boys pizza is a privacy law. Eagle Boys is subject to Privacy Legislation, including the National Privacy Principles (â€Å"NPPs†) under the Privacy Act 1988, The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act (1988) and contractual requirements relating to Privacy pursuant to a number of State and Territory Government Licence Agreements. Eagle Boys Pizza complies with this law by collecting information by either specifying or letting the reason be apparent at the time the information is collected. It is not Eagle Boys’ general practice to collect sensitive information and they will only collect sensitive information with the persons consent. A regulatory body that Eagle Boys Pizza complies with is the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Eagle Boys applied for notification of conduct whereby it would grant franchises on condition that franchisees acquire goods and services from specified suppliers. That notification was lodged on 13 August 2009 and allowed to stand on 21 September 2009. Eagle Boys complies by ensuring product safety and liability and does not provide any false or misleading advertising. Identification of two significant challenges for management in the business life cycle – one challenge management has faced prior to 2011 and one they will face in the future (ensure you state which stage of the life cycle the business experienced /will experience this challenge). A significant challenge that Eagle Boys pizza management has faced prior to 2011 is responding to the growing amount of different pizza businesses, in competition with Eagle Boys, and the need to introduce new ranges and varieties of products to satisfy the needs of consumers. They had been challenged to introduce new products such as gourmet pizzas, desserts, and sides such as pastas, chicken wings, garlic bread etc. This challenge was experienced during the growth stage of the business cycle. A significant challenge that Eagle Boys pizza management will face in the future is decline, in the Recession stage of the business life cycle. As the business would have been running for a while now, it will have become a high-risk business. Products may become obsolete, leaving the business with unsold stock. Another factor influencing decline is well qualified employees beginning to leave and seek better job opportunities. Due to the ongoing introduction of new businesses in the same field, Eagle Boys will be affected by consumers no longer buying the businesses products, resulting in a large dent in the cash flow. Consequently, profits will also decline. Identification of the business environmental influences, both internal and external, that have impacted upon this business Internal environmental influences that have impacted Eagle Boys Pizza include product influences such as the range of menus that it provides as well as services provided. E. g. Delivery services. Location influences also have a large effect on the business. The location of franchises is vital as a prime location means the business will attract higher numbers of customers as it is convenient and visible. The proximity to customers, suppliers and support services is also essential in determining the location of the business. Another internal influence is resources. Employees, being the main asset to the business are an extremely important resource. Other important resources include cooking and servicing equipment and machinery as well as raw materials that allow the business to create and sell their products. Management influences control the workers and help to provide a more organised structure and easy way of communication and co-operation. External environmental influences that have impacted Eagle Boys Pizza include Legal influences such as increasing legal obligations and business requirements. Political and institutional influences include taxation, employee superannuation, approval of new development and alteration applications. These influences have a strong impact on how and where the business is run. Another external influence is financial influences. Financial influences create changes in the financial market which can cause risk for the business. Geographical influences heavily impact the opportunities for the business. Demographic factors such as population, age, and income control the popularity of the business. Explanation and critical analyses of how management has responded to the above range of challenges and influences The first Eagle Boys Pizza opened in Albury, New South Wales. Eagle Boys advertised their products as semi-gourmet pizzas that quite unique to the larger chains, yet cheaper due to the high production output. This successful idea caught on, and the first store in Albury was quickly creating a generous profit. Within less than a year, Eagle Boys opened up two more stores in the neighbouring cities of Wagga Wagga and Dubbo. As the company sustained its growth, it put a lot of energy into researching ways to meet consumer demands in different regions. With stores opening up in rural, suburban and urban areas throughout Australia, the company became very popular due to operating in areas that other large fast food businesses would often ignore. One particularly successful store model was the development of a drive-thru pizza store in 1999, a concept which was unheard of at the time. Australia’s first drive-thru pizza store demonstrated to be immensely popular, as it was easy and convenient. Expanding on this quick pizza delivery system, the company launched the Eagle Boys Pizza Express Store shortly after, which was designed to provide quick service pizza out of a small location in highly populated foot traffic areas. This express system proved to be very popular, and new locations started to spring up at airports, shopping malls and pedestrian malls around the country. Many locations were now generating up to forty precent of their sales. As the company started to experience increased competition, it had to do something to differentiate its express pizza service from other companies offering similar products. Eagle Boys eventually developed a popular offshoot menu for Eagle Express stores: â€Å"Ready, Fresh Go! † in 2008. This idea meant that while it is an express delivery system, the pizzas are made fresh and held in specially-designed slow-cook ovens that ensure their freshness. The company’s dedication to research and response to consumer trends and the development of new, quality products quality concluded in the largest reformation of the Eagle Boys menu in its history. Launched in early 2010, the new menu featured a variety of new items. Apart from new pizzas, new items such as a chocolate fudge mousse dessert, pasta dishes, additional side dishes and drinks were introduced. Customers have responded with a resounding satisfaction, and throughout 2010 Eagle Boys enjoyed one of its biggest increases in sales in company history. Eagle Boys continues to develop new and accessible ways to respond to challenges and internal and external influences. Creating innovative and unique products is what has propelled the company to success, and it continues to be a mainstay of Eagle Boys’ activities today.

Sociology of Mass Media

Sociology of mass media – Advertising and democracy are connected. People are required by their political system to hold individual opinions. In addition, people look at the mass media for information on political matters. Therefore, they looked for information from the news, political debates, and political advertising so that they could evaluate their leaders and vote on public policy. – In covering a political campaign, the media choose which issues or topics to emphasize, thereby setting the campaign’s agenda.Therefore, the media create an agenda setting; the ability to affect cognitive change among individuals by telling people what to think about, not what to think. This would then influence Quebec voters’ decisions. – Political Advertising and campaign coverage would have an impact on Quebec voters in influencing their decisions by including these into their campaigns: †¢Patriotism: The ad stresses the candidate’s love of and serv ice to his/her country. †¢Gender: The ad presents the candidate as appropriately â€Å"manly† (or feminine) to make viewers trust him/her. Facts and Figures: The ad uses facts and statistics to support the candidate’s policies. †¢Issues: Reporters need to push for details on positions and ask tough questions on major issues, not accepting generalities. They need to bounce one candidate’s position off other candidates to create an intelligent discussion forum from which voters can make informed choices †¢Depth: On talk-show appearances, reporters need to offer something more than what voters can see and hear for themselves.Analysis and depth add a fresh dimension that is not redundant to what the audience already knows. †¢Inside coverage: reporters need to cover the machinery of the campaigns: who runs things and how, what history do they bring to a campaign. – Voters would be influenced by these presented campaign coverage and would us e these to make a decisive vote.

Artificial IntelligenceCognitive Ability of Information Processing essays

Artificial IntelligenceCognitive Ability of Information Processing essays Artificial Intelligence: Cognitive Ability or Information Processing Computers have become an integral part of our everyday lives. We rely upon these machines to perform innumerable tasks that we often take for granted. Most people realize that computers are able to perform the multitude of functions as a consequence of the programming they receive. These programs give computers a set of instructions that governs their transition from one information processing state to another. Thus, computational machines are able to respond to a certain set of inputs with a certain range of outputs. In order to comprehend programs one needs only to describe these instructions in functional terms. In this regard, computer programs are extremely similar to functional accounts of the human mind, which contend that in order to understand the mind, one must simply examine the relationship between stimulus and behavior. Consequently, the question has naturally arisen as to whether a computer which consisted of a sufficiently sophisticated program would be capable of tho ught. This question has resulted in lively debate, with one camp of people including John R. Searle emphatically denying the plausibility of Artificial Intelligence. On the other side of the debate, individuals such as Paul and Patricia Churchland have declared that although a serial machine with a program might not be able to think, Artificial Intelligence might be feasible in parallel processing computers. In Is the Brains Mind a Computer Program, John R. Searle presents an interesting argument against strong artificial intelligence proponents. Believers of strong artificial intelligence contend that a computer that can pass the Turing test is displaying cognitive ability. The Turing test basically states that if a computer can function in such a way that an expert can not distinguish its performance from that of a human who has a certain cognitive ability, such a...

Up and Down Phrasal English Verbs

Up and Down Phrasal English Verbs Phrasal verbs formed with up and down are used to indicate increases and decreases in a number of qualities. Each use is indicated by a specific general quality followed by a synonymous verb or short definition. There are two example sentences for each phrasal verb with up or down. Heres an example: Up Increase in ValueDown Decrease in Value to put up (S) to raiseThe supermarket put coffee prices up in January. to bring down (S) to reduceThe recession brought profits down sharply. Remember that phrasal verbs can be either separable or inseparable (review separable inseparable phrasal verbs). Each phrasal verb is also marked as separable (S) or inseparable (I). In the case that verbs are separable, examples will use the separable form of the phrasal verb. For inseparable phrasal verbs, examples keep the phrasal verbs together. Phrasal Verbs With Up Up Increase in Value to put up (S) to raise Well have to put our prices up to compete.Have they put the price of corn up recently? to go up (I) to increase The price of gas went up in March.Our rent went up in January. Up Increase in Size to bring up (S) to raise (usually children) They brought their children up to be responsible adults.Were bringing up two children. to grow up (I) to become older Youve grown up since I last saw you.The children grew up so fast. Up Increase in Speed to speed up (I) to go faster in a vehicle He quickly sped up to sixty miles an hour.His motorcycle can speed up to 100 quickly. to hurry up (I) to do something faster, to get ready faster Could you please hurry up?!Ill hurry up and finish this report. Up Increase in Heat to heat up (S) to make hotter Ill heat the soup up for lunch.What should I heat up for dinner? to warm up (S) to make hotter Ill warm this soup up for lunch.Would you like me to warm your tea up? Up Increase in Happiness, Excitement to cheer up (S) to make someone happier Can you cheer Tim up?I think we need to cheer them up with a song or two. to liven up (S) to make something more fun Lets liven this party up with a game.We need to liven this meeting up. Up Increase Sound to turn up (S) to raise the volume Please turn the radio up.I like to turn the stereo up when nobody is home. to speak up (I) to speak with a stronger voice You need to speak up for people to understand you.Please speak up in this room. Up Increase in Strength to build up (S) to increase over time Its important to build your muscle strength up over time.Theyve built up an impressive stock portfolio. to pick up (I) to improve over time My health has picked up over the past few days.The stock market has picked up recently. Phrasal Verbs With Down Down Decrease in Value to bring down (S) to reduce They bring down prices after Christmas.The summer brought heating oil prices down. to go down (I) to decrease The value of the house went down during the recession.Gas prices have gone down dramatically over the past few months. to cut down (S) to reduce the value of Weve cut our research and development budget down significantly.Theyve cut their investments down to half. Down Decrease in Speed to slow down (I) to reduce your speed Slow down when you drive into town.My car slowed down and stopped at the intersection. Down Decrease in Temperature to cool down (S) to a lower temperature Youll cool down after you stop exercising.This cool towel will cool you down. Down Decrease in Excitement to cool down (S) to relax I need to take a moment to cool down.Tom should cool his friend down so we can continue the meeting. to calm down (S) to make less excited I calmed the children down with a movie.It took him a while to calm down after the meeting. Down Decrease in Volume to turn down (S) to reduce the volume Could you please turn that music down?I think you should turn the volume down on the radio. to keep down (S) to remain soft Please keep your voices down in the library.Id like you to keep it down in this room. to quieten down (S) to encourage someone to become quieter Could you please quieten your children down?Id like you to quieten the class down. Down Reduce Strength to water down (S) to reduce the strength of something (often alcohol) Could you water this martini down?You need to water down your argument.

Battle of Plassey in Indian History

Battle of Plassey in Indian History Battle of Plassey - Conflict Date: The Battle of Plassey was fought June 23, 1757, during the Seven Years War (1756-1763). Armies Commanders British East India Company Colonel Robert Clive3,000 men Nawab of Bengal Siraj Ud DaulahMohan LalMir MadanMir Jafar Ali Khanapprox. 53,000 men Battle of Plassey - Background: While fighting raged in Europe and North America during the French Indian/Seven Years War, it also spilled over to the more faraway outposts of the British and French Empires making the conflict the worlds first global war. In India, the two nations trading interests were represented by the French and British East India Companies. In asserting their power, both organizations built their own military forces and recruited additional sepoy units. In 1756, fighting began in Bengal after both sides began reinforcing their trading stations. This angered the local Nawab, Siraj-ud-Duala, who ordered military preparations to cease. The British refused and in a short time the Nawabs forces had seized the British East India Companys stations, including Calcutta. After taking Fort William in Calcutta, a large number of British prisoners were herded into a tiny prison. Dubbed the Black Hole of Calcutta, many died from heat exhaustion and being smothered. The British East India Company moved quickly to regain its position in Bengal and dispatched forces under Colonel Robert Clive from Madras. The Plassey Campaign: Carried by four ships of line commanded by Vice Admiral Charles Watson, Clives force re-took Calcutta and attacked Hooghly. After a brief battle with the Nawabs army on February 4, Clive was able to conclude a treaty which saw all British property returned. Concerned about growing British power in Bengal, the Nawab began corresponding with the French. At this same time, the badly outnumbered Clive began making deals with the Nawabs officers to overthrow him. Reaching out to Mir Jafar, Siraj Ud Daulahs military commander, he convinced him to switch sides during the next battle in exchange for the nawabship. On June 23 the two armies met near Palashi. The Nawab opened the battle with an ineffective cannonade which ceased around noon when heavy rains fell on the battlefield. The Company troops covered their cannon and muskets, while the Nawabs and French did not. When the storm cleared, the Clive ordered an attack. With their muskets useless due to wet powder, and with Mir Jafars divisions unwilling to fight, the Nawabs remaining troops were forced to retreat. Aftermath of the Battle of Plassey: Clives army suffered a mere 22 killed and 50 wounded as opposed to over 500 for the Nawab. Following the battle, Clive saw that Mir Jafar was made nawab on June 29. Deposed and lacking support, Siraj-ud-Duala attempted to flee to Patna but was captured and executed by Mir Jafars forces on July 2. The victory at Plassey effectively eliminated French influence in Bengal and saw the British gain control of the region through favorable treaties with Mir Jafar. A pivotal moment in Indian history, Plassey saw the British establish a firm base from which to bring the remainder of the subcontinent under their control. Selected Sources History of War: Battle of PlasseyModern History Sourcebook: Sir Robert Clive: The Battle of Plassey, 1757History of Islam: Battle of Plassey

Some firms have been forced out of business with the earthquake Essay

Some firms have been forced out of business with the earthquake. Although, this was an extreme event, it raises a very important - Essay Example Now the question arises is it possible to do long term business planning? Or are we victims of the external environment? This paper aims at analyzing the extent of the ability of the organizations to plan for the future by taking into account all the external factors? Is it possible to predict all external factors affecting the business in the long term and plan accordingly? Can we predict natural calamities such as earthquakes and plan accordingly? Discussion Uncertainties in the environment are unavoidable. Dealing with these uncertainties in the environment requires inclusion of scenario planning in the strategy formulation. The traditional ways of strategy formulation can further be strengthened by inculcating scenario planning in the process by assessing the evolutionary changes in the environment. External environment analysis provides the company with the unique insight into the changes and its implications for the organizations and enables the company to prepare for them, by for example developing the technology and techniques required to understand and respond to these changes. One such technique is scenario planning which studies the relationship between strategy, environment and performance in context of business scope and resource commitment. Organizations can better plan for the future with the help of PESTEL (political, economical, social, technological, ecological and legal forces) analysis, internal resource analysis and the scenario planning. This model helps managers and planners develop a model of external environment in which the business may operate and helps in creation of strategy through which business may retain in its competitive advantage in the changed environment (Fahey, 2000). The theory about formulation of strategy by organizations can be divided into three forms or modes. They are called entrepreneurial mode, adaptive mode and planning mode. Entrepreneurial mode is generally found in the writing of some classical economist and m anagement theorist. According to this mode one bold and risky action by a strong leader on behalf of the organization is strategy. Adaptive mode is the ability and the decision of the organizations to take small steps and adjustments according to the changes in the external environment. Finally the planning mode which is propagated by management science and policy science involves explicit planning for the business based on formal analysis with the aim of integrating strategies for the future. All these modes if combined together and alternatively used by managers according to the changes in the environment can result in a powerful and effective strategy for the business. (Mintzberg, Strategy Making in Three Modes, 1973) There is consensus among all researchers of the theory of organizational behavior and strategic management that changes in the external and external environment results in the ambiguity within and across the organizational structure and hence increases the probabili ty of strategic error. It may even result in economic collapse of the organization. Mintzberg believe that managers within an organization need to develop a CE strategy that top level mangers not only formulate keeping in view the concept of the organization but should also promise minimization of strategic error. The leadership and management of the organizati

Challenges of Work Placement Feasibility Case Study

Challenges of Work Placement Feasibility - Case Study Example In order to ensure that no major conflict arouses between the company and the architect consultant, the following techniques were applied: a. A clear description of the requirement as follows was provided to the Architect: i. The project should be of a 5-star hotel category. ii.Number of rooms required: 100 iii. The purpose and objective of the project is â€Å"Customer satisfaction†. Hence, all activities involved with the project had to be looked at from a â€Å"Customer† perspective. Should carry facilities of the minimum standard requirement of a hotel such as: a. Minimum 25 let able rooms b. Located suitably c. Public areas and rooms well appointed & centrally located d. Kitchen, Pantry & rooms well designed and equipped e. Bathrooms with shower facilities, 24 hours hot & cold water and with modern design and high quality fittings. f. Ladies and gents cloakrooms furnished with high standards g. Architecture feat and construction of building should have distinctive qualities of luxury. h. Quality of walls and garden of high standards i. Adequate parking space for vehicles. j. Well designed and equipped swimming pool with recycling facility k. B/rooms modern in design & fittings of high quality with hot/cold water - 24 hrs. l. Reception, cash and information counters m. Well appointed lobby area n. Minimum of one conference and banquet halls o. Lifts to be installed for building more than two floors. p. Rooms to be spacious and well furnished with curtains and upholstery q. Lighting arrangements in all areas r. Dual telephone line facilities in each room s. Provision for relayed music in each room t. Remote control televisions to be provided. u. Flooring to be of high quality in all areas v. Elegant bar with luxury w. Special restaurant for entertainment x. Restaurant with multi-cuisine v. A plan was defined with the following: i. The layout should provide maximum capacity within the available space. ii. Handling of material in the most economical manner. iii. Human effort, material and space to be optimally utilized, where wastage had to be avoided. iv. No delays/bottlenecks in the completion of the construction. v. Should have no requirement of making changes of installed machinery vi. Service areas such as... Several contractors subscribed. The above-obstructing parameters were checked and a contract was awarded to one architect consultant - Velmar Inc. who was responsible for end-to-end execution of the project with a group of construction companies, and who qualified with all above parameters. c. Further, a Facilities and Administration Manager was appointed by the company to follow-up on the activities of the architect consultant. This manager was qualified with Engineering background and quality controls, and security aspects. a. Ensure the luxury property is members of an elite group of hotels that exhibit an exceptionally high degree of service and hospitality, and where the property displays an original design, elegant room decor, exceptional dining, and meticulous grounds. ii. Having other consultants carrying out other activities would bring in competition, thus quality would be better, because one consultant may fear that the other is doing good in quality, hence want to ensure that they are better.

Japan -earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear crisis in international Essay

Japan -earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear crisis in international business perspective - Essay Example The influence of the earthquake and the tsunami in the nuclear strategies of countries worldwide is examined in this paper. Reference is also made to the effects of the event on the global market. Appropriate theories are used for explaining the relationship between the earthquake in Japan and the nuclear crisis that followed. 2. Background of earthquake It could be argued that Japan should be best prepared to face such events. Two Swiss experts have been asked to evaluate the potentials of predicting the above earthquake: In accordance with Domenico Giardini, there were major chances to predict the specific earthquake. It is noted that earthquakes of 8.5 are considered as possible in the greater region; also, a few days before the above earthquake, tremors of 7.7 were reported in the region, but they were not given the adequate attention (Kuenzi & Beti 2011).

Corporate Finance Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Corporate Finance - Case Study Example The company's other division, ALSO, provides 'information and communications technology and consumer electronics in the wholesale and logistics sectors (Google Finance 2009).' Schindler operates in 125 countries, with its 45,063 employees around the world, while most of its ALSO operations cater to European customers (Yahoo Finance). A firm's liquidity is measured by certain financial ratios which include the current ratio, quick ratio, and average collection period. Schindler Holding's current ratio is 1.45 in 2004, 1.3 in 2005, 1.31 in 2006, 1.29 in 2007, and 1.33 in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). The company's quick ratio is 1.06 in 2004, 0.92 in 2005, 0.87 in 2006, 0.84 in 2007, and 0.95 in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). As for the company's average collection period, the company collects its accounts receivable in 53.81 days in 2004, 58.29 days in 2005, 59.73 days in 2006, 52.13 days in 2007 and 47.45 days in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). Exhibit 1 in the Appendices shows the trend of Schindler Holding's current ratio and quick ratio. The company's current ratio has declined from 2004 to 2005, increased from 2005 to 2006 then declined again to 2007. From 2007 to 2008, this ratio is increasing. The company's quick ratio on the other hand has faced a constant decline from 2004 up to 2007. In 2008, the company's quick ratio has increased from 2007. The difference in the trend between the two ratios tells one thing-while the company has increased its current assets in 2006, the increase is mainly attributed to assets aside from cash, short-term marketable securities and accounts receivable. Exhibit 3 in the Appendices shows an lengthening collection period from 2004 to 2006. From 2006 to 2008, however, the trend goes downward. This means the company has cut down on its collection period. The shorter the collection period, the shorter the operating cycle is and cash comes back to the company from its operations more quickly. ii. Operating efficiency The company's operating efficiency is measured by ratios such as the company's inventory turnover, fixed asset turnover, and total asset turnover. Schindler Holding's inventory turnover in 2004 is 22.53 times, 21 times in 2005, 17,87 times in 2006, 16.13 times in 2007, and 18.71 times in 2008 (see Table 1 in Appendices). Exhibit 2 shows the trend for this ratio; from 2004 up to 2007, Schindler Holding's inventory turnover ratio is in a downward trend before it goes up in 2008. Since inventory turnover ratio determines how fast a company disposes inventories and turn into cost of goods sold to the company. The company has become less efficient in converting its inventories into sales from 2004 to 2007, until it has improved its efficiency in 2008. The company's fixed asset turnover ratio measures how hard the company's fixed assets are employed in terms of contributing to the company's revenues. In 2004, this figure amounts to 15.42 times, 20.34 times in 2005, 22.97 in 2006, 27.29 times in 2007 and 28.83 times in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). This ratio has an upward trend from 2004 to 2008 (Exhibit 2), which means the company increases the efficiency of its fixed assets, in relation to revenue generation. The company's total asset turno

Left vs. Right brain and how it can impact learning Research Paper

Left vs. Right brain and how it can impact learning - Research Paper Example The right hemisphere can also perform mathematical estimations and comparisons to a limited level. Comprehension of visual imagery and interpretation of a voice tone are aspects performed by the right side of the brain. It is complex to tell how a person becomes right or left brained. Some people can be left or right handed, and that is alluded to the side of the brain is dominant. The brain assigns and balances functions to each side of its hemisphere. The portioning of tasks is done to ensure efficiency in the performance of the brain. The asymmetry of the brain is necessary in ensuring that there is no conflict in terms of performance and control. Left brained persons are known to be objective, analytical and logical. A right brained person is thoughtful, subjective, and intuitive. Psychologists note this to be lateralization of brain function. Each side of the brains plays a role. Nobel Prize winner, Rodger Sperry observed that incision of corpus collosum eliminates or reduces epileptic seizures. However, the patients experience other symptoms when the corpus collosum is cut. Such patients cannot name objects processed by either side of the brain (Fitgerald, 2010). Despite being lateralized, the two sides of the brain still work as a unit. Some analysts have also refuted claims that one side of the brain can be dominant than the other. Right brained persons are said to be more creative than their left side counterparts. It is believed that right-brained thinkers are very few. We can allude that they view things from a different perspective. That trait is what makes them creative. The left brained persons are objective but lack the natural creativity. Not that they are not creative at all, but they articulate it in a unique way (Duncan, 2009) Right brained people can learn much about abstract art. Abstract art has an element of disorganization and lack of order. It entails no boundaries and involves creativity. It is easy for

Corporate Finance Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Corporate Finance - Case Study Example The company's other division, ALSO, provides 'information and communications technology and consumer electronics in the wholesale and logistics sectors (Google Finance 2009).' Schindler operates in 125 countries, with its 45,063 employees around the world, while most of its ALSO operations cater to European customers (Yahoo Finance). A firm's liquidity is measured by certain financial ratios which include the current ratio, quick ratio, and average collection period. Schindler Holding's current ratio is 1.45 in 2004, 1.3 in 2005, 1.31 in 2006, 1.29 in 2007, and 1.33 in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). The company's quick ratio is 1.06 in 2004, 0.92 in 2005, 0.87 in 2006, 0.84 in 2007, and 0.95 in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). As for the company's average collection period, the company collects its accounts receivable in 53.81 days in 2004, 58.29 days in 2005, 59.73 days in 2006, 52.13 days in 2007 and 47.45 days in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). Exhibit 1 in the Appendices shows the trend of Schindler Holding's current ratio and quick ratio. The company's current ratio has declined from 2004 to 2005, increased from 2005 to 2006 then declined again to 2007. From 2007 to 2008, this ratio is increasing. The company's quick ratio on the other hand has faced a constant decline from 2004 up to 2007. In 2008, the company's quick ratio has increased from 2007. The difference in the trend between the two ratios tells one thing-while the company has increased its current assets in 2006, the increase is mainly attributed to assets aside from cash, short-term marketable securities and accounts receivable. Exhibit 3 in the Appendices shows an lengthening collection period from 2004 to 2006. From 2006 to 2008, however, the trend goes downward. This means the company has cut down on its collection period. The shorter the collection period, the shorter the operating cycle is and cash comes back to the company from its operations more quickly. ii. Operating efficiency The company's operating efficiency is measured by ratios such as the company's inventory turnover, fixed asset turnover, and total asset turnover. Schindler Holding's inventory turnover in 2004 is 22.53 times, 21 times in 2005, 17,87 times in 2006, 16.13 times in 2007, and 18.71 times in 2008 (see Table 1 in Appendices). Exhibit 2 shows the trend for this ratio; from 2004 up to 2007, Schindler Holding's inventory turnover ratio is in a downward trend before it goes up in 2008. Since inventory turnover ratio determines how fast a company disposes inventories and turn into cost of goods sold to the company. The company has become less efficient in converting its inventories into sales from 2004 to 2007, until it has improved its efficiency in 2008. The company's fixed asset turnover ratio measures how hard the company's fixed assets are employed in terms of contributing to the company's revenues. In 2004, this figure amounts to 15.42 times, 20.34 times in 2005, 22.97 in 2006, 27.29 times in 2007 and 28.83 times in 2008 (see Table 1 in the Appendices). This ratio has an upward trend from 2004 to 2008 (Exhibit 2), which means the company increases the efficiency of its fixed assets, in relation to revenue generation. The company's total asset turno

Managing Hospitality Resources Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Managing Hospitality Resources - Essay Example The premeditated use of technology in marketing services has created many opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry. Consequently customers are always not satisfied with what they receive and desire innovative alternatives. Since the 1980s, the information communication technology has transformed dramatically, the management and outlook of many hospitality industries resulting into computer reservation systems, which later transformed into global distribution systems in the early 1980s and finally the currently used internet. The invention of the internet has caused a shift in many operations changing operational practices and a general paradigm shift in the market (Moutinho 2011, pp 108). It is in this regards that many hotels are developing computer systems to meet the demand of their customers. The Royal Garden Hotel is a five star hotel that need improvement in technology since technology is a driving force towards growth of many economies. In addition, technological advancement in a hotel facilitates efficient internal operations and improvement in service quality. Body When the Royal Garden Hotel develops technology and systems in their operations many services are likely to be improved. To start, the management will be able, to create automated guest histories. By having the guest history available, defining the customer mix to come up with the services salient for each customer will not be a challenging factor. From this perspective customer satisfaction gets enhanced, this leads to retention and in turn maintaining loyalty. Secondly, the development of the E- business strategy at the Royal Garden Hotel will provide transaction centric solutions (Shin 2003, pp 76). This leads to efficiency and proficiency in administrative procedures (property management systems) and internal operations. The core function behind the improvement of management is in the provision of guest folio, a factor important in the provision of services to the guest. In as much as this is not a primary goal of introduction of technology in Royal Garden Hotel, it is an indirec t benefit, which accrues to the net yield of the hotel. One means of using technology to reach customers is by websites. This is because customers are increasingly applying voice recognition mechanisms and call routing technologies. They access hotels through websites where they speak to computers routing their calls to relevant departments. A website proposal for the hotel, therefore, would target various audiences. For instance, various company executives can access the website and check various services offered by the Hotel. This is because company executives often have meetings in hostels with partners from overseas of internal customers (Leong 2001, pp 201). Tourists also remain a central segment of the targeted audiences who book online through various websites before arriving at their destinations. To prevent customers who access the site from being bombarded with run-of-the-mill products the website developed by the hotel, must meet all requirements as well as expectations o f customers to gain the competitive advantage. It is from this perspective that Royal Garden hotel management should employ the automated system, which can impart

Ebay Problems in Asian Markets Essay Example for Free

Ebay Problems in Asian Markets Essay This paper will identify some of the reasons why E-Bay has problems in the Asian Markets as an internet auction provider. After examining articles from Philip Kotler and David Gertner as well as Moon Ihlwan among others, this paper will provide my answers about why did EBay want to expand globally as well as why any of these Asian nations wanted their business? It will explain some research explored about what types of Entry decisions the company used in the Asian Markets. Utilizing the knowledge gained about the history of global business. Answering the question about the problems that EBay has in the Asian market will allow me to discuss and apply concepts of the global market learned in module one in support of my answers. Lastly this correspondence will assess how EBay’s Marketing Mix assessment of the Four P’s assisted them in the global marketing strategy the company adopted for the Asian Markets? Why did EBay want to expand globally and why did nations wanted their business? The reasons EBay decided to expand globally were various and resulted in an overall loss for the San Diego, CA based company headed by the former CEO at the time and California Gubernatorial candidate, Meg Whitman. Some of the decisions made and acted upon by the company’s leadership were akin to the way Meg Whitman ran her political campaign. Instead of researching the culture and traditions of the places they chose to do business and working on an image of being local or at least embracing local cultures and traditions; they chose to feed issues with money. In Whitman’s case borrow millions of dollars from herself to try to resolve the issue of losing as a candidate. Getting back on subject, the countries that eBay chose to expand globally in, were like all nations; ones that needed jobs. EBay sought the cheaper labor wages as a win-win situation for themselves or some instances the prediction of a high level of success due to their business reputation. Getting into the market was not difficult as the new market fell in line with what these countries wanted in ordered to develop their economies; while in turn enhancing domestic quality of life for their citizens. EBay felt compelled to expand globally to remain competitive as the US domestic market share was becoming mature resulting in stagnant profits and overall growth. As all companies looking to globally expand eBay was investing in Asia to increase profits by gaining a positive entry into this new market share however there was no need to create a new market. The majority of the countries they chose had local internet auction industry established already. EBay’s ultimate goals were to introduce their open auction business model at an international scale starting in places like Japan, China and South Korea to take advantage of these nation’s emerging economies in order to increase wealth. Entry Decisions Through the struggles in gaining entry into these emerging market areas, EBay learned that they must adapt as well as embrace some of the new technologies and products offered by their competitors in the Asian domestic markets in order to be successful or at least competitive in the market. The beating they took in Asia was not just from Chinese and South Korean competition, but from two US based competitors in Yahoo and Google. A current domestic alliance with Yahoo against the giant Google has not resulted in any increase in positive business in the global market share as Yahoo is continuing to gain more shares of the market through its ventures with local competitors. EBay market entry decisions were integral to their failure in Asia. As ascertained from a case study published May 2008 about EBay’s Strategy in Japan 1, â€Å"†¦they entered the Japanese market late after Yahoo Japan had already established and failed to retain customers. It took them two years to concede the failure of the EBay Japan and instead of making a deal with local investors they finally folded in 2002. Ironically, in 2007 EBay made a deal with Yahoo Japan to share internet sites and products in Japan in a joint web site called â€Å"Sekaimon† 1. Their failures in Asia has eventually led to layoff of workers in countries like Taiwan and shutting down of several sites in Asia while rerouting customers to US based sites to maintain a virtual presence. In 2006 EBay’s South Korean venture Internet Auction was bested by a South Korean competitor named Gmarket whereas they equaled or eclipsed EBay’s profit share in South Korea that year. Gmarket also produced innovating products to the internet auction industry such as making shopping via internet fun and using tie-in promotions. Excerpts taken from a Moon Ilhwan internet article in Business Week2, further explain the stiff competition EBay had in South Korea from Yahoo and the local upstart, â€Å"Gmarkets business model places less emphasis on an open auction format than eBays. The company offers goods that one can order at fixed prices, with an option to negotiate prices with a seller on an exclusive basis. This allows buyers to conclude deals instantly instead of requiring them to wait until all bids are completed in open auctions†¦Ã¢â‚¬  and â€Å"†¦another tie in marketing program is a lottery called lucky auction. It gives buyers chances to buy everything from LCD televisions to T-shirts at a fraction of the market value. A seller promoting an MP3 player, for example, invites consumers to bid for two of them within a given price range—usually less than 10% of the retail price. Then Gmarkets computer picks two bids at random to decide the winners. Others visitors can buy the MP3 pla yer at a special offer price. The seller attracts consumers, while Gmarket happily hauls in commissions. Another incentive at Gmarket is that retailers can offer online links to their own mini homepages within the site, issue discount coupons, run joint mileage points programs, and use an internal messenger service called G-messenger for instant chatting with sellers. Some shops listed on the site have also drawn traffic by promising to donate 10 cents to a favored charity every time a product is sold†¦Ã¢â‚¬  2 Thus far EBay has attempted joint ventures and mergers to enter the Asian market share and has met negative results. This has had a negative effect on their overall performance to expense ratio in their stock valuation from 2000 thru the present time but has not deterred management from continuing to compete for a market share in Asia. An ongoing joint venture with Yahoo keeps EBay with a foot in the door of the foreign market and continues the strategic alliance against Google. EBay has expanded to Southeast Asia to see what they can obtain in Singapore, Malaysia and through operations in the Philippines. Currently they are doing promotional sites in Thailand and Vietnam to gauge future profits in those nations as well. EBay’s use of the Four P’s in their marketing mix assessment EBay’s use of the Four P’s in their assessment of their global market strategy was regretful in Asia when in comparison to Yahoo’s success. Lost on the EBay leadership was the desire to be a part of the local market and understanding cultural diversity of each Asian nation they wanted to establish a market. From my personal experiences going to countries such as Japan, South Korea, Guam, or the Philippines for business this is vital to earning shares of the Asian market and as a personal prospective as well. Yahoo’s co-founder, Yang is a male businessman of Chinese-Taiwanese descent which had to give Yahoo an edge in Japan, China and South Korea over EBay’s CEO at the time Meg Whitman; who was female, Caucasian descent and unaware culturally of how to gain the confidence of local leaders and business persons. 3 The product that EBay had to offer was nothing innovative to the Asian market as there was already a local variant of online auctions/internet industry thriving in Japan, China and South Korea. Timing and placement of EBay’s business model was late and over reaching as Yahoo already was established in each of the locations chosen and early profits resulted in a false analysis of future outcomes for EBay in Asia. Promotions used on the global EBay sites had advertising geared globally instead of locally which went ignored by local customer’s. More emphasis toward local advertising of domestic interests could have attracted and retained their customer base. Lastly, pricing of their product which was part of the business model was somewhat excessive and confusing. So when an upstart company like Gmarket introduces something simple like, fixed prices and special deals the customer’s internet shopping experience just became more simplified to use and less time to use resulting in a more desirable overall product than EBay was offering at the time. The EBay pricing system had customer’s waiting out the end of a bidding process which still did not guarantee the customer the outcome desired if they were outbid. EBay’s management’s inflexibility hindered the local management’s ability to make decisions that would help them get more of the local market share and build from there in their own country and marketplace. 3 Discussion EBay’s ventures in expanding to a global market were incurred several surmountable challenges. As stated in the lesson the Asian market share is vital and profitable for many companies. As the research depicted one of EBay’s primary challenges was completion at several levels; global and local/domestic competitors all vying for a market share of the internet auction industry. EBay attempted to manage market entry problems long after their original business model was viable in the region, by adapting lowering or waiving fees for its services to keep up with the competition from Yahoo, Google, Chinese stall worth Internet Auction and South Korean upstart GMarket. EBay failed to incorporate some of the local technical innovations that likes of GMarket produced for its customer base such as, local advertising on the sites, fixed price so that internet shoppers could get what they were shopping for and not have to outbid others and wait for the outcome of who actually won/bought the products advertised. History was another problem for EBay, they did not study the culture and traditions of the places they chose to enter the market at. Cultural traditions and business practices are conversely different in China which operates under quasi-governmental entities, and Japan and South Korea where they operate under version of the â€Å"Free Market† concept. Along with not understanding Asian cultures the company did not attempt to adapt its global business model to the local market when incorporating its management and leadership philosophies to the region. This resulted in a management and leadership staff overseas that would not be capable of maturing as a team to meet the local demands of the market. Just being in the region did not give EBay the advantage they seemed it would, thus their own inflexibility and lack of foresight contributed greatly to the problems they are facing in the Asian market. To EBay’s credit they have not thrown in the towel and have remained in Asia through joint ventures and are actually conducting promotion in Southeast Asia (Thailand and Vietnam) as well operations in Singapore, the Philippines and other places.

Effect of Caffeine and Nicotine on the Body and Mind

Effect of Caffeine and Nicotine on the Body and Mind Stacey Campbell Abstract Caffeine and nicotine are products that we are very familiar with. Both are used throughout the world and have been for hundreds if not thousands of years. They are not illegal but they are technically considered to be drugs. They affect the brain in many of the same ways that other drugs that are addictive do. Caffeine and nicotine both affect the body as well. Both substances have been shown to have some measure of benefit but they can both cause health concerns. With repeated use the body can develop a tolerance to them which can lead to abuse, dependency and addiction. Keywords: Caffeine, Nicotine, Addiction, Abuse, Dependency, Health, Body, Brain Caffeine and Nicotine – What They Do To the Body and Mind It is probably safe to assume that most people don’t equate drinking an energy drink loaded with caffeine, not being able to really start their day before their daily appointment with their first cup of coffee or using tobacco products throughout the day with drug use. Caffeine and nicotine are however, â€Å"the most widely used recreational drugs† (Julien, Advokat Comaty, 2011). When examining the reasons that caffeine and nicotine are used by so many people we find that they are both available in a wide variety of products, are affordable and are legal to purchase provided you meet age requirements for purchasing tobacco products. They also have psychostimulant properties that users find pleasurable or rewarding. Using too much of either drug can result in habitual use or dependency. This paper will focus on the ways that caffeine and nicotine use affects the body and the mind. The main reason that I chose to research this topic is that prior to this class I never really thought of caffeine or nicotine as drugs. I knew that people could crave them, experience symptoms of withdrawal if they stopped using them, and that both can have adverse side effects and cause health problems but despite having that knowledge I didn’t think of them like I would cocaine or heroin. This could be simply because I am so familiar with both. I don’t use tobacco products but my parents smoked while I was growing up. People I work with run for their smoke breaks every day. The first thing I do when I get to work is fill up my coffee mug and I look forward to a Diet Mountain Dew when the afternoon starts dragging. Being exposed to tobacco use all my life I have always hated it so I pretty much viewed it as a very harmful, nasty habit. I admittedly have a major crush on, if not a slight addiction to caffeine. I guess I just thought of caffeine as a less than ideal cho ice but because I enjoy the natural sources it is found in I continue to choose to consume them. It will be interesting for me to research the ways that the body and mind are affected by using caffeine and nicotine when looking at them from a different perspective than usual. Caffeine Caffeine can be found in numerous foods and beverages that are included in the typical standard American diet. Among other sources we can find it in our morning cup of coffee, a chocolate bar from the vending machine or a glass of tea with dinner. If we are feeling really tired or need to stay awake to make sure we meet a deadline and we don’t think the coffee is going to cut it we can run to the local drug store and find a few medications that contain caffeine, herbal supplements if we prefer something a little more natural or even energy drinks with very high levels of caffeine if we need an intense surge of caffeine to enhance athletic performance or need to be very alert (Julien et al, 2011). Caffeine gets a bad rap sometimes. While the negative attention isn’t completely unwarranted, author Jessica Girdwain suggests that caffeine may be, â€Å"the world’s best drug† (Girdwain, 2013). She supports her theory by sharing some of the benefits of caffeine. She says that consuming moderate amounts of caffeine can sharpen your mind and improve your cognitive skills by stimulating parts of the brain that are in charge of cognitive thinking, pleasure and alertness. She also claims it can boost a sluggish metabolism by stimulating the central nervous system. Additional benefits she mentions in her article are disease prevention because consuming caffeine can reduce the risk of developing diabetes and some kinds of breast cancer as it can strengthen the body’s defense systems and can trigger the release of dopamine which can decrease the chance of developing depression. She says you may also find that your workouts may be more effective and easier if you drink a little coffee just before because caffeine blocks adenosine so muscles do not get tired as quickly. (Girdwain, 2013). That all sounds like good news to me but as with most other good things using too much can be problematic. There are health hazards that are associated with using too much caffeine or using it long term. The potential for abusing caffeine is low but it is considered to be an atypical drug of abuse and it is possible for some users to show signs of dependence or abuse. They may feel distressed by the amount of caffeine they use, feel like they cannot stop using it or feel unable to control the amount they are using Because of this there has been debate over whether or not caffeine abuse or dependence should be considered a diagnosis (Ogawa Ueki, 2007) Doctors Ogawa and Ueki state that, â€Å"current cases suggest that caffeine can produce a clinical dependence syndrome similar to those produced by other psychoactive substances† (Ogawa Ueki, 2007) Caffeine effects the brain by impersonating the neurochemical adenosine. Adenosine is produced by neurons and the more your body produces the calmer you become. When levels are high enough you get sleepy. The level of adenosine in the body is monitored through receptors, especially the A1 receptor, in the brain and in the body. Caffeine is the same shape and size of adenosine so it enters the receptors the same way but rather than activating them it blocks the nervous systems ability to monitor the level of adenosine. This allows the neurotransmitters glutamate and dopamine, which the body produces naturally, to continue providing their stimulant effect while the adenosine levels are essentially on hold. So caffeine isn’t really doing the stimulating, it just allows the dopamine and glutamate to do their thing unhindered by adenosine. This effect doesn’t last forever and eventually the nervous system will prevail and the tired or sluggish feelings return so we seek out more caffeine. This is why we feel like we can’t function until after the first cup of coffee each morning (DiSalvo, 2012). Caffeine begins to work quickly within the body but it impacts everyone a little differently. Some people will experience insomnia if they have any caffeine after midday while others can have a cup of caffeinated coffee with dessert after dinner and sleep like a baby. Caffeine stimulates the respiratory and central nervous system and can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. It can result in increased production of stomach acid which can irritate the stomach’s lining. It can have a diuretic effect and has been linked to osteoporosis and a decline in bone density. Heavy or prolonged caffeine use can lead to nervousness, agitation, feeling jittery or shaky and heart palpitations. Caffeine abuse can also trigger the adrenal glands to release hormones that will tell the body to release blood glucose from the storehouses. This causes the pancreas to work harder to produce enough insulin to regulate the blood glucose levels in the body (Connolly, 2000). As with other a ddictive drugs people may experience withdrawal symptoms if the decide to cut out the caffeine. They may feel a little edgy, be more irritable, be more tired than usual and have headaches for awhile as the body adjusts to not getting the caffeine fix it has become accustomed to receiving (DiSalvo, 2012). Nicotine Unlike caffeine, nicotine use is widely known to be related to numerous health problems. While Nicotine can have adverse effects it cannot carry the full blame for disease and death related to its use. Nicotine is what causes a person to become dependent on and addicted to tobacco use but the other compounds contained in cigarettes are to blame for the high level of toxicity. Nicotine can be obtained by smoking cigarettes, using smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco and tobacco products that are dissolvable (Julien et al, 2011). Many smokers begin smoking at a young age and continue the habit throughout their lifetime. Nicotine is easily absorbed into the body through the skin, gastrointestinal tract, mucosal membranes and lungs. When inhaled it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream via the lungs. Users can regulate the amount of nicotine in their blood controlling the number of breaths they take, how deeply they inhale, how long they wait before expelling the smoke from their lungs and how many cigarettes they use. Nicotine is dispersed throughout the body rapidly and there are no barriers that it cannot cross and it is found in all bodily fluids (Julien et al, 2011). Nicotine differs from other drugs of addiction because it goes directly to the brain where neurotransmitters that result in gratification are produced instead of stopping at other sensory centers. Using nicotine for an extended time can affect the way the brain functions and even alter the structure of the brain. The centers of the brain that control emotions and motivation develop connections in response to high levels of nicotine. These changes make it very difficult for a person to resist the triggers that make them want to smoke. They may want to or attempt to quit smoking but smoking is more than just a habit, it is also a compulsion. The structural changes in the brain do not revert back to normal simply because one stops smoking. It can take years of abstaining from cigarettes for these changes to be resolved. This makes the risk of relapse very high (Leone, unknown) Within seconds of nicotine entering the bloodstream it enters the brain and binds to neural receptors. This calls the neurons to action. Networks of neurons that are contained within the brain’s reward center signal the release of dopamine, a natural feel good chemical. This makes the brain consider nicotine to be a positive activity, like eating or sexual activity are. Continued nicotine use strengthens this connection and the brain begins to consider it as necessary for survival as eating, drinking and procreating. Dopamine levels drop as nicotine levels do. This results in cravings that trigger the smoker to reach for another cigarette that will deliver the nicotine the brain thinks it must have. As with caffeine and other addictive drugs the more nicotine you use the more you need as the body becomes tolerant. Smokers become chemically dependent early on and the addiction grows stronger over time. Neural pathways that connect smoking to all kinds of emotions and situations begin to form. That is why cigarettes are commonly smoked almost in a ritualistic manner. Stressed? Driving? Just finished a meal or task? Just finished having Sex? Reach for a cigarette because the emotions and situations are connected and these and many others trigger the desire for a nicotine fix because they are associated with each other by the brain (Kellet, 2012) As mentioned above the thousands of compounds found in cigarettes are more hazardous to the body than nicotine itself is. The deadly chemicals and compounds in cigarettes increase the risk of many kinds of cancer throughout the body. It can weaken the immune system, lead to heart disease, shorten life expectancy dramatically, raise blood pressure, increase the risk of stroke and cause many respiratory diseases like emphysema, COPD and asthma. Women who smoke during pregnancy risk increase of premature delivery, low birth weight and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Men who smoke are also more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of the damage cigarettes can cause. (National Cancer Institute, unknown). Nicotine in and of itself can still affect the cardiovascular system, central nervous system and respiratory system negatively. Nicotine has been shown to boost working memory and performance of cognitive tasks (Julien et al, 2011). Some resea rch has also shown that it may help prevent ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and Tourette’s Syndrome (Hamilton, Unknown). Even though nicotine may have some benefits it seems that the risks outweigh the benefits. Jack Henningfield said, At this point, I would contend that the cognitive benefits which have been documented are of such limited generality and low magnitude that they could hardly be considered to be clinically meaningful, except for nicotines efficacy in reversing deficits which occur during cigarette abstinence in nicotine dependent people (Henningfield, 1994). Christianity and Substance Abuse Although smoking and caffeine use are not specifically addressed in the Bible there are many passages in the Bible that urge and warn Christians to avoid treating our bodies badly. One that clearly states how Christians should view substance abuse of any kind is found in 1st Corinthians. It reads, â€Å"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body† (1st Corinthians 6:19-20, New International Version). It doesn’t get much clearer than that. While many Christians use caffeine and nicotine those things, especially when used to the point of addiction and abuse, would probably not be considered to be a way that we can glorify God with our bodies. Using these substances will not make a person unforgivable. They can still be saved and cannot lose their salvation if they are already saved. Freeing yourself from addiction is hard but if we a re willing to try we can find encouragement in Scripture as well. Phillipians 4:13 says, â€Å"I can do all things through him who gives me strength† (Holy Bible, NIV). The struggle may be real but the strength of Christ can help us overcome. Caffeine and Nicotine are both substances that affect the brain and body. They create feelings of pleasure within the body that leave us wanting to experience the feelings again. Caffeine can give us a much needed pick me up. It is easy to develop a habit of consuming caffeine and over time can turn into a dependency or addiction as we continue to trick our bodies into being alert and responsive. It is also easy to justify using caffeine as the risk for abusing it is low and moderate use doesn’t seem to be terribly dangerous. There are certainly worse things we could be putting in our bodies than coffee, colas and Hershey bars. Nicotine dependency can happen fairly quickly. The brain adapts to the drug and the desire to keep levels of nicotine and dopamine steady is so strong that it drives the user to keep going back for more. This is often the case even when they know fully well that doing so is likely damaging their health, could shorten their lifespan and can be compromising the health of the people who are around them when they smoke. They may wish to stop smoking but the changes that nicotine causes within the body make quitting a monumental task and if they do manage to stop using products containing nicotine the chance of relapsing is fairly high. There are products available that may help people who are trying to stop smoking. They provide nicotine in measured amounts to help people maintain and decrease nicotine levels while avoiding the habit of smoking cigarettes to get their fix. People can try using chewing gum with nicotine, patches that are applied to the skin that allow nicotine to be absor bed into the body, nasal sprays and electronic cigarettes. These products also eliminate the exposure to the 4000 plus compounds that are released when tobacco is burned (Julien et al, 2011). Conclusion Researching caffeine and nicotine through new lenses has revealed that they both act very similarly to other addictive drugs within the body. The body enjoys them and desires them. The body can become tolerant to both so users will need to use more to satisfy the cravings. They may not be illegal but they certainly can be addictive. Both can cause withdrawal symptoms if they are stopped suddenly. Sounds quite a bit like drug use and abuse to me. References Connolly, R. (2000, August 7). Caffeine. Retrieved from http://www.pe2000.com/self_help_techniques/caffeine/ DiSalvo, D. (212, July 26). What caffene really does to your brain. Retrieved from http://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2012/07/26/what-caffeine-really-does-to-your-brain/ Girdwain, J. (2013). Is caffeine the worlds BEST drug?. Redbook, 220(3), 90. Hamilton, W. (Unknown). Nicotine benefits. Retrieved from http://www.forces.org/evidence/hamilton/other/nicotine.htm Henningfield, J. (1994). Comments on wests editorial beneficial effect of nicotine: fact or fiction?. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1360-0443.1994.tb00865.x/pdf Julien, R., Advokat, C., Comaty, J. (2011). A primer of drug action. (12th ed.). New York, NY: Worth Publishers. Kellett, C. (2012, December 3). The short and long term effects of nicotine on the brain. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/search?q=how nicotine affects the brainsourceid=ie7rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-Addressie=oe=rlz= Leone, F. (Unknown). Nicotines effect on the brain. Retrieved from http://phillycopd.com/WP1/web-cme-resourcesintroduction/section-1-tobacco-use-treatment/knowledgecontent/nicotine-brain-effect/ National Cancer Institute. (Unknown). Harms of smoking and health benefits of quitting. Retrieved from http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Tobacco/cessation Ogawa, N., Ueki, H. (2007). Clinical importance of caffeine dependence and abuse. Psychiatry Clinical Neurosciences, 61(3), 263-268. doi:10.1111/j.1440-1819.2007.01652.x

Comparing Metaphors in Norman Macleans, A River Runs Through It and He

Comparing Metaphors in Norman Maclean's, A River Runs Through It and Henry David Thoreau's, Walden In Norman Maclean's A River Runs Through It, the author recounts the story of his early life growing up in Montana. The narrative revolves around his family and the art of fly fishing. Through the novel, Maclean begins to understand the wisdom of his father, the fierce independence and downfall of his brother, and the divinity and beauty of nature. A similar theme regarding divinity in nature is found in Henry David Thoreau's Walden. Building his own cabin and supplying his own food, Thoreau spends two years living alone beside Walden Pond. Thoreau recognizes nature as the "highest reality"(265) and the intrinsic work of "the Builder of the universe"(348). Thoreau also provides insights into human life and expresses these in indirect metaphors with his natural surroundings. The narratives differ most in their changes in mood and plot progression. In Walden, Thoreau displays a change from beginning to end, expressing pessimism and depression at first and then happiness and fulfillment in the end. A River Runs Through It is largely opposite of this change. Thus, both authors relate similar themes and experiences while significant differences exist in the mood and progression. One theme common to both narratives relates to how people are similar to bodies of water. Maclean illustrates this as he describes his brother Paul as being "tough"(8) and "very angry"(7) from his youth. Consequently, Paul's favorite river is the Big Blackfoot, which "is the most powerful and . . . runs straight and hard"(13). Maclean describes the river's "glacial origins"(14) and how it was formed overnight in "the biggest flood in the world"(14). Paul... ... glories in the beauty of nature and expressed how infinite man's possibilities are. In contrast, Maclean provides a valuable and realistic lesson, as his brother's premature death and his family's sorrow are the final details of his story. Despite, the depressing ending, Maclean expresses his belief in the permanence of one's legacy as he hears the words of his family echoed in the river. Thoreau states, "Yes, we have done great deeds, and song divine songs, which shall never die"(349). Thus, both works display compelling themes of nature and men's lives while differing substantially in their plot progression and mood. Works Cited Maclean, Norman. A River Runs Through It and Other Stories. Chicago: The U of Chicago P, 1976. Thoreau, Henry David. Walden. 1862. Walden and Other Writings by Henry David Thoreau. Ed. Joseph Wood Krutch. New York: Bantam, 2001. Comparing Metaphors in Norman Maclean's, A River Runs Through It and He Comparing Metaphors in Norman Maclean's, A River Runs Through It and Henry David Thoreau's, Walden In Norman Maclean's A River Runs Through It, the author recounts the story of his early life growing up in Montana. The narrative revolves around his family and the art of fly fishing. Through the novel, Maclean begins to understand the wisdom of his father, the fierce independence and downfall of his brother, and the divinity and beauty of nature. A similar theme regarding divinity in nature is found in Henry David Thoreau's Walden. Building his own cabin and supplying his own food, Thoreau spends two years living alone beside Walden Pond. Thoreau recognizes nature as the "highest reality"(265) and the intrinsic work of "the Builder of the universe"(348). Thoreau also provides insights into human life and expresses these in indirect metaphors with his natural surroundings. The narratives differ most in their changes in mood and plot progression. In Walden, Thoreau displays a change from beginning to end, expressing pessimism and depression at first and then happiness and fulfillment in the end. A River Runs Through It is largely opposite of this change. Thus, both authors relate similar themes and experiences while significant differences exist in the mood and progression. One theme common to both narratives relates to how people are similar to bodies of water. Maclean illustrates this as he describes his brother Paul as being "tough"(8) and "very angry"(7) from his youth. Consequently, Paul's favorite river is the Big Blackfoot, which "is the most powerful and . . . runs straight and hard"(13). Maclean describes the river's "glacial origins"(14) and how it was formed overnight in "the biggest flood in the world"(14). Paul... ... glories in the beauty of nature and expressed how infinite man's possibilities are. In contrast, Maclean provides a valuable and realistic lesson, as his brother's premature death and his family's sorrow are the final details of his story. Despite, the depressing ending, Maclean expresses his belief in the permanence of one's legacy as he hears the words of his family echoed in the river. Thoreau states, "Yes, we have done great deeds, and song divine songs, which shall never die"(349). Thus, both works display compelling themes of nature and men's lives while differing substantially in their plot progression and mood. Works Cited Maclean, Norman. A River Runs Through It and Other Stories. Chicago: The U of Chicago P, 1976. Thoreau, Henry David. Walden. 1862. Walden and Other Writings by Henry David Thoreau. Ed. Joseph Wood Krutch. New York: Bantam, 2001.

Volunteer Military Service

Volunteer Military Service The United States military is by far the most advance in the world. Our country is filled with passion and patriotic citizens who would give their lives for this country. The United States also has one of the largest militaries in the world with the highest trained soldiers on this planet. The United States military has a variety of special forces soldiers who are send out on top missions and operations around the world. The American soldiers are one of the most appreciated people in the United States today because of the recent wars with Afghanistan and Iraq.What stands out the most with the American soldiers in this country is the willingness to volunteer for this country. Volunteering means to freely offer to do something, which the soldiers in the United States are doing today. The United States military has many enlistees everyday ranging from men and women for every branch of service. The United States military today is over manned in every branch of service along with a bad economy in this country. Also, many people today are trying to join because of unemployment and the military provides a salary for people who have no income.The United States government should continue to use its volunteer military service because of the over manning numbers of enlistees today. The United States government should also explore more with volunteering especially with female soldiers that are part of the military who wish to volunteer for training in combat related jobs in the military. Women should also be able to register to the Selective Service if they wish to do so. This will make the United States military more diverse and will allow more opportunities for women.The United States government has done a great job implicating the all volunteer military service since the end of the draft in 1973 after the Vietnam War. The citizens of America have set aside their own personal lives to volunteer and fight for their country. People of all ethnici ties and religions come together as a team to protect their country from terrorism and other threats from around the world. According to â€Å"Defending the all-volunteer force† Each year about 170,000 young men and women volunteer for the active-duty force and another 140,000 for the reserve and Guard.An additional 30,000 are commissioned as officers and join the active and reserve components. Those who enlist come from all parts of the country, from households all across the economic spectrum, and from all races and ethnicities (Gilroy). The citizens who volunteer for this country are considered true American heroes. The volunteers of this country choice to fight for the United States of America and were not obligated to but decided to for the love they have for this country. This is why the all volunteer military service works because of the heart and dedication that the volunteers have for this country.A military draft wouldn’t find enough dedicated men and women w ho would have to be force to fight and risk their lives in a war that they didn’t sign up for. â€Å"It would be prudent to say the US Military does not want a military draft, as motivated volunteers are much more desirable than reluctant conscripts† (Military Spot). The military draft can never return especially in this new generation that the American citizens live in today. There would be outrage throughout the country and protests in Washington D. C. The military draft is unethical and is violating American citizens rights that our founding fathers gave us. The 13th Amendment makes quite clear that â€Å"involuntary servitude† is not permitted. And, the principle of â€Å"positive grant† espoused by the 10th Amendment states that any power not specifically given to the federal government by the constitution is â€Å"reserved to the States, respectively, or to the People† (Boldin). If the United States of America used the draft again it will tar nish the meaning of freedom in this country. The United States government should never force people to fight in a war that they do not believe in.Ripping out fathers, brothers, and sons from their homes and families is completely wrong especially if they do not return home from war. â€Å"Forcing someone to work for the state; forcing someone to kill or be killed; forcing someone to do anything at the point of a gun under threat of prison or even death is involuntary servitude. Of all the forms of slavery that have existed throughout history, forcing someone to fight and die in war is by far the most disgusting, and is a form of murder against all who don’t survive† (Boldin).Women have grown independent power throughout the past decades. A problem has recently come across within the past years with women in the military who are asking to be in combat positions in the military. The military does not allow women to have jobs involving combat and has yet to make an effort to change this problem. The problem is that women have not been given an opportunity to at least try for combat related job training. Women in the military have rose to the occasion numerous times but, are never nationally recognize for your services in war. Women are displaying great courage and skill in ambushes, firefights, and battles on the ground. They are not just surviving, but earning medals for valor in combat. On March 20, 2005, Army Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester was in a convoy of twenty-six vehicles that came under enemy ambush by fifty insurgents. Sgt. Hester â€Å"led her team through the ‘kill zone' and into a flanking position, where she assaulted a trench line with grenades and M203 grenade-launcher rounds. Sgt. Hester killed at least three insurgents† and was awarded the Silver Star for her bravery under fire† (McSally). Sgt.Hester was brave and courageous in a high stress situation where her life and others were on the line. Sgt. Hester has obviously proven herself and the United States military that she deserves an opportunity for a combat related job in the military. The United States government should at least consider looking into this important problem and test women to see if their at least physical fit for the job training. In conclusion, the United States government should continue the volunteer military service because of the large number dedicated volunteers who fight for this country.A military draft would simply be not necessary for this country because the United States military already has a large number of enlisted soldiers. The military draft is an unmoral act of forcefulness on the citizens of the United States and will have a negative effect on the country. The United States government needs to put more time and consideration for the women of the military. Women in the military should be able to train in any job if they’re capable of completing the necessary training for the job. This will make the Unite d States military equal in everything that implies with the military especially for women.Works Cited Boldin, Michael. â€Å"The Military Draft: A Moral Abomination. † The Military Draft: A Moral Abomination. Tenth Amendment, 3 Apr. 2007. Web. 17 Apr. 2012. Gilroy, Curtis L. â€Å"Defending the All-volunteer Force. † ARMED FORCES JOURNAL. ARMED FORCES JOURNAL, 14 Apr. 2010. Web. 16 Apr. 2012. McSally, Martha. â€Å"WOMEN IN COMBAT: IS THE CURRENT POLICY OBSOLETE? † www. law. duke. edu. Duke Journal of Gender Law & Policy. Web. 16 Apr. 2012. Spot, Military. â€Å"Military Draft. † MilitarySpot. com. Military Spot, 13 Mar. 2009. Web. 16 Apr. 2012.

Problems and Aspirations of Youth Essay

Abstract Violent crimes such as murder, armed robbery, kidnapping and terrorism are the most inhumane crimes that continue to plague Nigeria. Lately, kidnappings for ransom and terrorism have taken the centre stage leading to bloodshed and economic set -backs. The causes are not farfetched as studies have associated rising youth unemployment to the increase in violent crimes. By using the deprivation theory proposed by Ted Gurr, this study has explored the proximate and ultimate causes involving the youths in violent crimes. If factors that create the feeling of deprivation and frustration created by unemployment are addressed, Nigeria‟s youths will not engage in violent crimes. Keywords: Youth; unemployment; poverty; violence; crime Introduction Creativity and high energy are the characteristics of young people in any nation and if the energy is channelled positively, it will greatly benefit not only the economic prosperity of nations but also enhance the moral values of the youth. When the same energy is used negatively, it will lead to social unrest and economic instability. Labour force of a country is used to measure unemployment and Feyisetan (1991) defines as a set of people or citizens of a country who are willing and are able to make available at any given point in time their efforts for gainful employment. Therefore unemployment is a situation where people are willing to work but could not find employment. According to the International Labour Organization people who are without work but available for and seekin g work; including those who have lost jobs and those who have voluntarily left jobs (World Bank, 1998). On the other hand, violent crime is defined as a crime in which the offender uses or threatens to use violent force upon the victim. This entails violence including robbery with and without arms (Wikipedia, 2010). Global unemployment remained stable at 8% between 2010 and 2011, according to Gallup surveys of 148 countries. Unemployment was highest in the Middle East and North Africa (22%) and sub-Saharan Africa 17% (Marlar, 2012). However, Nigeria‟s unemployment rate is above the sub-region‟s average that increased to 23.9% in 2011 compared with 21.1% in 2010 and 19.7% in 2009 (National Bureau of Statistics, 2012); and is projected to hit 25% by the end of 2012 (USA Embassy in Nigeria, 2012). According to the National Bureau of Statistics (2009:238; 2010:2; 2012), the national unemployment rates for Nigeria between 2000 and 2011 showed that the number of unemployed persons constituted 31.1% in 2000 and it reduced to 11.9% in 2005 but again increased to 23.9% in 2011. Nigeria has a youth population of 80 million, representing 60% of the total population with a growth rate of 2.6% per year and the national demography suggests that the youth population remains vibrant with an average annual entrant to the labour force is 1.8m between 2006 and 2011. Yet, majority of the youth has been either unemployed or under -employed between 2006 and 2011. The overall unemployment rose from 12.3% of Labour force to 23.9% (Awogbenle and Iwuamadi, 2010). A surge in unemployment was witnessed in 2009 due to global/local economic meltdown. The World Bank estimates that 74 million people between the ages of 15 and 24 are unemployed, which accounts for 41% of all unemployed person s (UNHabitat, 2008). From 1990-2000 youth unemployment data showed that the largest group of the unemployed were secondary school graduates. Also, 40% of unemployment rate were among urban youths aged 20 – 24 and 31% of the rate were among those aged 15-19. Two-thirds of the urban unemployed ranged from 15-24 years old. Moreover, the educated unemployed tended to be young males with few dependents (Okafor, 2011). In 2011, the situation became even more critical with 37.7% of Nigerians aged 15-24 and 22.4% of those between ages 25-44 were willing to work but did not get jobs. On average, youth unemployment rate in Nigeria is 46.5% in 2011 (BLG, 2012). As of 2009 when National Bureau of Statistics published unemployment rate at 19.7%, Issa Aremu the Deputy President of the National Labour Congress said, â€Å"Find out about the number of people who applied for the last recruitment by the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Customs Service. When more than a hundred thousand people apply for just about 3000 vacancies, then you should know whether the figures are true† (Ekott, 2010). Unemployment appears to be the root cause o f violence in Nigeria. Research suggests that unemployed youths are disproportionately more likely to be perpetrators, as well as victims of crime and violence (Okafor, 2011). The growing gap between the rich and poor affects the society through increased violence. The self employed are in quandary as scant infrastructure makes it impossible for them to ply their trade (Okafor, 2011). This is exac erbated by political corruption, poverty, poor governance, increasing population, and lack of policy initiatives and implementation to some extent encouraged criminal groups to thrive across Nigeria. This paper examines how youth unemployment contributes to violent crimes across Nigeria. Deprivation Theory of Ted Gurr This classical theory explains why people engage in violence (riots, rebellion, coups, criminal activities etc.). It examines the psychological causes involving frustration and aggression as the primary source of human capacity for violence. Frustration is neither necessary nor sufficient ly leads to violence but greed may drive to violence. Frustration is a much stronger motivating force and prolonged frustration may cause greater probability for aggression. Relative deprivation is the discrepancy between what people think they deserve and what they actually think they can get (Gurr, 1970). It is noteworthy that Gurr does not look to a more absolute or objective indicator of deprivation as the source of violence. People can get used to a bad state of affairs, even one that offers so little access to life-sustaining resources that members of the group are starving or dying of remediable diseases or exposure. However, if there is a significant d iscrepancy between what they think they deserve and what they think they will get, there is a likelihood of rebellion. Gurr posits this to be the case because there is a feeling that their expectation cannot be met if the current statuesque is maintained. The first situation may be a desperate one, but it is the se cond that will be frustrating. So frustration produces aggression at individual, group and societal levels. This theory could be used to link rising number of unemployed youths and violent crimes in Nigeria. A country that produce thousands of university graduate every year without commensurate employment opportunities may be creating a fertile ground for a feeling of frustration among these unemployed graduates. Naturally, there is a feeling of joy and great expectations when a student graduates from a university- these expectations gradually fades away and is replaced by feeling of frustration after some years of joblessness caused by little opportunity the society offers the young graduate. As frustration prolongs and the feeling of deprivation of what that is expected increases, there is a greater probability that the individual or people can resort to illegitimate activities in order to actualise their expectations in the society. The rise in violent crimes (robbery, kidnapping, thuggery, terrorism) committed by youths is a sign of „gap‟ in the society. The society already has expectations for individuals and established means of achieving them. When the means are limited as the youth unemployme nt is 46.5% in 2011, people are forced to achieve the goals through illegal means to fulfil societal expectations. Kidnappings are on the increase across Nigeria and the unemployed youths view the business lucrative. They are available for recruitment by p oliticians. In the Northern part, they are recruited both by politicians and religious groups to be used in political, religious and terrorism acts. In the SW Nigeria, they find easy employment in petty criminal activities. The culture must at least accept , if not approve, violent action as a means to an end. This could be the reason why suicide bombing is exclusive to the Northern part of the country as violence is encouraged by some Islamic sects. Political violence is also likely if the current leadershi p and or the socio-economic and political system are seen as illegitimate. Causes of Youth Unemployment in Nigeria The level of unemployment is highly dependent on the overall status of the economy (Awogbenle and Iwuamadi, 2010). Despite its riches from o il economy, employment in Nigeria is actually falling. The years of corruption, civil war, military rule, and mismanagement have hindered economic growth. Nigeria is endowed with diverse and infinite resources, both human and material but years of neglige nce and adverse policies have led to the under-utilization of these resources. These resources have not been effectively utilized in order to yield maximum economic benefits. These are primary causes of unemployment; however s cholars have identified other causes of unemployment as well ( Adebayo, 1999; Alanana, 2003; Echebiri, 2005; Ayinde, 2008; Morphy, 2008; Awogbenle and Iwuamadi, 2010; and Anyadike et al, 2012) . The first is population growth (140,431,790 as per 2006 census) and is projected to be over 1 80 million by 2020 if the annual growth rate of 3.2% continues (National Population Commission and ICF Macro, 2009). While the population increases, the number of industries growth is dwindling and if nothing serious is done, both population and unemployme nt will continue to rise. The second is outdated school curricula and lack of employable skills: Some scholars have argued that as far as the formal sector is concerned, the average Nigerian graduate is not employable therefore, does not possess the skill s needed by the employers (Anyadike et al, 2012). This is due to the curricula of most Nigerian schools that do not include entrepreneur skill acquisition to benefit job seekers. The third is adoption of untimely economic policy measures that contributed to the demise of small scale and cottage industries operated in both formal and informal sectors. Following the introduction of Structural Adjustment Program in September 1986 that ushered in liberalization, deregulation and devaluation program of the domes tic currency, many of the teething domestic firms collapsed that resulted in serious job losses (Bello, 2003). The fourth is over emphasis on university certificates and neglect of skill acquisition trainings that contributes to youth unemployment. According to Manning and Junankar (1998), the total number of graduates produced in Nigeria was 73,339 in 1986/1987 that rose to 131,016 in 1996/1997. Over 97 universities occur in Nigeria with a demand for higher education while there is problem of unemployment. The reality is that the economy does not have the capacity to absorb all unemployed graduates because over 800 industries and 37 factories were closed down in 2009 alone (Anyadike et al, 2012). Nigeria’s Unemployment and Crimes Security is a contextual issue which no state in the international system consigns to the periphery; it is a core-value that makes the state relevant in the international system (Ndifon, et al. 2012). Death rate attributable to violence in Africa is estimated at 60.9 per 100,000 p eople more than twice the global rate (WHO 2004a). Crime and violence have been increasing in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa among unemployed young people. The causes are not farfetched as studies have associated rising youth unemployment to increase of violent crime in Nigeria. The accelerating level of prostitution, armed robbery, rape, terrorism and all facets of violence can be largely attributed to the incidence of unemployment. Growth has not been in line with the aspirations of the people and has not been driven by higher productivity. The public perception is that there has been little job creation. Many young people who fail to gain employment have become a burden to the employed that bear the re sponsibility of meeting the needs of millions of educated but increasing frustrated group, a wasting generation. The problem of violent crimes in Nigeria has been exacerbated by the high rate of unemployment and economic hardship which has pushed many jobless youths some of whom are graduates into various deadly crimes (Edward, 2011). A 2009 World Bank report on ‘Employment and Growth’, warned that, â€Å"The share of young people between the ages of 15 and 24 outside the labour force is growing, despite the country’s strong growth performance over the years†. Mass sacking in the Central Bank of Nigeria affected 7,500 banking jobs (Allafrica, 2010). The UN-Habitat study on crimes and violence stressed that socio -economic inequality and the lack of opportunities for social advancement and employment are some of th e root causes of crime and violence. Children and youth from disadvantaged families are vulnerable to fall prey to criminal networks. Of the estimated 1 billion people living in slums, over half are under the age of 25, and 40% are estimated to be under the age of 19. They are the primary victims of social exclusion through unemployment, lack of access to health and education (UN -Habitat, 2008). Furthermore, an empirical survey of Children and Youth in Organized Armed Violence in Nigeria, reported that disenchantment and frustration of young people due to mass poverty and unemployment, has increased the number of aggrieved youths and resulted in the emergence of „area boys‟ and Almajiris who target the very society that alienated them (Ibrahim, 2006). The survey concluded that armed militant groups in Nigeria namely Bakassi Boys, O‟ odua Peoples Congress (OPC) and Egbesu Boys were made up of youths within 16 – 17 years (40%), 18 – 19 years (10%), 20 – 21 years (20%), and 20 – 23 years (20%). Approximately 60% of them were unemployed (Awogbenle and Iwuamadi, 2010). Bennel (2000) argued that urban society is becoming increasingly criminalized, especially with the proliferation of youth gangs. Neither homes, nor markets are safe in Nigeria because of frequent o ccurrence of armed robbery incidents. Unemployment problem, which now seems beyond remedy, has produced army of idle hands and some of them have decided to punish the society that fails to provide them with means of livelihood and dignity by robbing its members of their property at gunpoint (Ideyi, 2005). The police cannot perform effectively because they are overstretched by the amount of cases that awaits them daily, and is worsened by outdated instruments they use that are no match to the modern sophisticated weapons used by the criminals. The Research Director of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Dr Sope Wiliams Elegbe revealed that: â€Å"The increasing poverty in Nigeria is accompanied by increasing unemployment. Unemployment is higher in the nort h than in the south. Mix this situation with radical Islam, which promises a better life for martyrs, and you can understand the growing violence in the north. Government statistics show that the northern states have the highest proportion of uneducated persons. If you link a lack of education and attendant lack of opportunities to a high male youth population, you can imagine that some areas are actually a breeding ground for terrorism† (Oxford Research Group, 2012). The Inspector General of Police, Muhammed Abubakar, has called on the three tiers of government to tackle unemployment in order to reduce crime rate in the country. He expressed concern at the rate youths were resorting to crime as an alternative means of survival due to unemployment: â€Å"We have a lot of graduates and even those who have not attended any school who have nothing to do. It becomes worrisome, when you go round this country and you see the faces of unemployed persons. You begin to wonder that we just have to do what we have to do at the level of federal, state and local governments to begin to plan and put policies in place for the employment of these persons†. (Cruise news, 2012) Conclusion No nation can achieve growth in an atmosphere of violent crimes. The role of Nigeria‟s government must include the formulation of policies and laws that could help improve the economic and social wellbeing of its citizens and deter criminality. There is a need to increase jobs through small enterprises and poverty alleviation schemes. 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