Sodium Thiosulfate Reaction

eLearning 2009 Publication No. 91860 Rate of Reaction of Sodium Thiosulfate and Hydrochloric Acid Rate Laws Introduction The purpose of this demonstration is to investigate the effect of sodium thiosulfate concentration on the rate of reaction of sodium thiosulfate with hydrochloric acid. The reaction, which produces solid sulfur, will be followed by measuring the time needed for the reaction mixture to become opaque. The results will be analyzed graphically to determine the order of reaction— the mathematical relationship between the reactant concentration and the rate.Concepts †¢ Kinetics †¢ Order of reaction †¢ Rate law †¢ Concentration Materials Hydrochloric acid solution, HCl, 2 M, 25 mL Sodium thiosulfate solution, Na2S2O3, 0. 15 M, 150 mL Distilled or deionized water Beakers, 100-mL, 5 Graduated cylinders, 50- or 100-mL, 2 Graduated cylinders, 10-mL, 5 Overhead projector or light box Permanent marker Stirring rods Stopwatch or timer Safety Precaution s Hydrochloric acid solution is corrosive to eyes and skin. It is moderately toxic by ingestion and inhalation. Sodium thiosulfate solution is a body tissue irritant.The reaction of sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid generates sulfur dioxide gas, which is a skin and eye irritant. Perform this demonstration in a well-ventilated lab only. Avoid contact of all chemicals with eyes and skin. Wear chemical splash goggles, temperature-resistant gloves, and chemical-resistant apron. Please review current Material Safety Data Sheets for additional safety, handling, and disposal information. Procedure 1. Label five 100-mL beakers 1–5 and clean the bottom of each beaker. 2. Draw a large â€Å"X† across the bottom on the outside of each beaker.Place the beakers on an overhead projector stage or a light box so that students can view the â€Å"X. † 3. Using separate graduated cylinders for the solution and water, measure and add the required amounts of 0. 15 M sodium th iosulfate and distilled water to each beaker. Be as precise as possible. Beaker 0. 15 M Na2S2O3 Distilled Water 1 50. 0 mL 0 mL 2 40. 0 mL 10. 0 mL 3 30. 0 mL 20. 0 mL 4 20. 0 mL 30. 0 mL 5 10. 0 mL 40. 0 mL 4. Have students calculate the final concentration of sodium thiosulfate in each beaker 1–5. 91860 011509 Flinn Scientific—Teaching Chemistry eLearning Video Series 5.Record the following information in a data table: Beaker, volume of Na2S2O3 solution, volume of distilled water, concentration of Na2S2O3, reaction time (sec), and 1/reaction time (reaction rate). See the Sample Data and Results table in the Discussion section. 6. Measure 5. 0 mL of 2 M hydrochloric acid into each of five 10-mL graduated cylinders. 7. Starting with beaker #1, carefully add the HCl all in one pour to the sodium thiosulfate solution. Stir the solution once with a stirring rod and immediately start timing. 8. Stop timing when the black â€Å"X† is no longer visible. Record the rea ction time in seconds in the data table. . Repeat steps 7 and 8 with beakers 2–5. 10. Calculate 1/reaction time for each trial. Plot concentration vs. time and concentration vs. 1/time on separate graphs. Disposal Please consult your current Flinn Scientific Catalog/Reference Manual for general guidelines and specific procedures governing the disposal of laboratory waste. Collect the leftover reaction mixtures and filter to separate the solid sulfur product. The sulfur may be disposed of in a landfill according to Flinn Suggested Disposal Method #26a. The filtrate may be neutralized and disposed of down the drain with excess water according toFlinn Suggested Disposal Method #26b. Tips †¢ This activity may be performed as a chemical demonstration with classroom participation or as a student activity. The contents of the beakers project well on an overhead projector and the time to the disappearance of the black â€Å"X† is easily seen and measured. †¢ The reac tion may be downsized for a student lab activity. Carry out individual trials in separate wells in a 6-well reaction plate or in small medicine cups. If students will be doing the experiment in the lab, it is a good idea for them to start with beaker #5, because it takes the longest time. The activity may also be performed as a cooperative class exercise with different groups investigating different variables, including the effect of HCl concentration and the effect of temperature. The reaction rate is zero-order with respect to HCl. †¢ Empty the beakers and clean them thoroughly using paper towels to remove the sulfur. If the colloidal sulfur is allowed to sit in the beakers for an extended time, it will be much more difficult to remove the deposits from the glass. †¢ To achieve better mixing of the reactants, add the hydrochloric acid using a 10-mL luer-lock plastic syringe (without needle).Squirt the acid using a fair amount of force. †¢ When lower concentrations o f sodium thiosulfate are used, the rate law does not appear to be as simple as predicted in this experiment. At lower concentrations, the reaction appears to be closer to 3/2-order in sodium thiosulfate and 1/2-order in hydrochloric acid. The reaction time is more difficult to measure at lower concentrations because the onset of turbidity is more gradual. †¢ Both the overall chemical equation and the mechanism for the decomposition of sodium thiosulfate are more complex than suggested by Equation 1.The reaction is acid-catalyzed, which means that the acid concentration must have some bearing on the rate in terms of producing an equilibrium concentration of HS2O3– ions, The HS2O3– ion is a reactive intermediate, reacting further with additional S2O32– ions to produce polymeric ions containing multiple S atoms. When the chain of S atoms in a polymeric ion becomes long enough, it â€Å"closes† in on itself to form a ring of elemental sulfur (S8). â€⠀œ — S2O32– + H+ < — > HS2O3 —— – H—S—SO3– + nS2O32– > H—S—(S)n—SO3 + nSO32– – — – – H—S—Sn—SO3 < — > H+ + S—Sn—SO3 —— – S—S7—SO3 > S8 + SO32– –2–  © 2009 Flinn Scientific, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 91860 Discussion Sodium thiosulfate reacts with hydrochloric acid to form sulfur and sulfur dioxide (Equation 1). Na2S2O3(aq) + 2HCl(aq) > S(s) + SO2(g) + 2NaCl(aq) Equation 1 The kinetics of the reaction can be analyzed by graphing the concentration of Na2S2O3 as a function of both reaction time and 1/time. A plot of concentration versus time gives a curved line, which levels off as it approaches the x-axis—the reaction slows down as the reactant concentration decreases. The rate of a reaction is inversely proportional to reaction time.A plot of concentratio n of versus 1/time gives a straight line. The rate is directly proportional to concentration, and the reaction appears to be first order with respect to sodium thiosulfate concentration. Sample Data and Results Beaker 1 2 3 4 5 Volume of Na2S2O3 (mL) 50 40 30 20 10 Volume of H2O (mL) 0 10 20 30 40 [Na2S2O3], M 0. 15 0. 12 0. 090 0. 060 0. 030 Reaction time (sec) 22. 5 27. 3 35. 1 60. 0 159. 1 Reaction rate (1/time, sec–1) . 0444 . 0367 . 0285 . 0167 . 00629 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 0. 00 Effect of concentration on reaction time 0. 05 0. 10 0. 15 0. 20 Na 2 S2 O3 Concentration, M 0. 07 0. 6 0. 05 0. 04 0. 03 0. 02 0. 01 0 0. 00 Effect of concentration on reaction rate 0. 05 Na 2 S2 O3 Concentration, M 0. 10 0. 15 0. 20 –3–  © 2009 Flinn Scientific, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 91860 Connecting to the National Standards This laboratory activity relates to the following National Science Education Standards (1996): Unifying Concepts and Processes: Grades Kâ €“12 Evidence, models, and explanation Constancy, change, and measurement Content Standards: Grades 9–12 Content Standard A: Science as Inquiry Content Standard B: Physical Science, structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, motions and forcesFlinn Scientific—Teaching Chemistryâ„ ¢ eLearning Video Series A video of the Rate of Reaction of Sodium Thiosulfate and Hydrochloric Acid activity, presented by Annis Hapkiewicz, is available in Rate Laws, part of the Flinn Scientific—Teaching Chemistry eLearning Video Series. Materials for Rate of Reaction of Sodium Thiosulfate and Hydrochloric Acid are available from Flinn Scientific, Inc. Materials required to perform this activity are available in the Reaction Order and Rate Laws—Student Laboratory Kit available from Flinn Scientific.Materials may also be purchased separately. Catalog No. Description AP4864 H0034 S0114 AP1572 GP1010 GP2005 GP2015 Reaction Order and Rate Laws—Student La boratory Kit Hydrochloric Acid, 3 M, 500 mL Sodium Thiosulfate Pentahydrate, Reagent, 500 g Timer, Stopwatch, Flinn Beaker, Borosilicate Glass, 100 mL Graduated Cylinder, Borosilicate Glass, 10-mL Graduated Cylinder, Borosilicate Glass, 50-mL Consult your Flinn Scientific Catalog/Reference Manual for current prices. –4–  © 2009 Flinn Scientific, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 91860

Course study

Expectations from Students: a. Students must report to the respective sessions well before the announced time. Latecomers will not be permitted to Join the class after the scheduled time. If late, the attendance for that session will be marked as absent. B. Read the Case Study / material well prior to the class discussion. He/she is also expected to read the chapter indicated in the course plan as the faculty directs. C. In the class discussion student is expected to participate actively and contribute to individual and group learning. Evaluation is based on active participation. D.The participation has to be relevant and meaningful. â€Å"Speaking for speaking sake† will be counter- productive. Participation by Just repeating a point made or picking on what someone has said will also be counter-productive. E. Evaluation is a continuous process at BIBS. Every student needs to be aware of the timeliness given in the section below. Absence from these evaluations will mean non aw arding of marks in that particular component f. Wherever applicable, group assignments require each student to contribute to the roof effort. This enhances group effectiveness and leads to greater appreciation of working in groups. G.Formal dressing is suggested for all students. Do not roam in the academic area/ attend classes in chapels / shorts / informal t shirts h. Students are expected to show high regard and appreciation for class discipline and desist from using mobile phones. This disturbs the class ambiance and unnecessarily diverts attention of other students as well as the faculty member. To avoid these, mobile phones should be switched off inside the classroom. I. I have given a scheduled consultation hour. Utilize this time to meet me and clarify doubts if any, seek explanations and get mentored if needed. J. Attendance is compulsory in all sessions.However refer to guidelines in your academic handbook for exceptions. Honor Code: Unfair practices in tests and plagiaris m in assignments / project work will straight away entail a ZERO to all involved parties. It is not relevant for me to know the source and destination of plagiarism. Class Organization Class Representative One of you will be elected / selected by consensus as Class Representative for the CM course. S/he will be responsible for class room arrangements, dealing with academic office, for communicating information from me to the class and also to collect all assignments / project works and deliver them to me.Class Discipline Students must occupy their seats on/before the scheduled time and must remain seated until I announce the closure of the session. Students must have their name plates on the desk. Use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited in the class. Students must bring calculator and the text book to every class. While we may work & EXAMINATIONS. Students are free to ask questions/doubts/clarifications in the class on topics under discussion. For other doubts, they should meet me in my office during consulting hours.Evaluation Timeliness Keeping in line with continuous evaluation at BIBS the following schedules have been drawn. Students are expected to go through the dates / sessions mentioned and prepare accordingly. Component Component Number Expected slot / due date Marks declaration by Weighted Class Participation After completion of Session 1 1 Session 12 10 2 After completion of Session 22 Session 23 3 After completion of Session 30 Session 31 -rest – 1 Session 9 Session 10 -rest – 2 Session 17 Session 18 -rest – 3 Session 30 End exam At the end of the semester Total Performance till Midterm will be announced by end of session No. 6 in each course which means each student will know his / her performance in one CPA and two Tests. The final result will be declared after the end examinations. Before the student takes the end examination he / she will be aware of the progress in each course up to an extent of 60 marks. Students not taking the evaluation according to the timeliness mentioned above will not be given another opportunity except in extremely rare circumstances.It is should be noted, though, that the make exam would be of a higher difficulty level than the regular exam (because the student get extra time) Notes: 1. Make up test for Test- 1 & Test – 2 are permitted only in EXCEPTIONAL cases. I must be convinced about the reason in advance. It is should be noted, though, that the make exam would be of a higher difficulty level than the regular exam (because the student gets extra time). 2. Students with less than 60% attendance on the date of any evaluation component ill be awarded F grade for that component.

An Overview Of Learning Three Theoretical Perspectives Education Essay

There are countless positions on the acquisition procedure, understanding the mechanisms of and our apprehension of larning as theory and the practical application of methodological analysis has evolved well over clip. Each theory contributes to our apprehension of how scholars integrate information and experiences from their environment. This has deductions for single growing and besides for institutional policy and pattern. In this paper I will reexamine three theoretical positions on acquisition, viz. the Constructivist/Cognitivist position, the Phenomenographic position, and the Socio-cultural position, I will depict the salient characteristics and features of each theory, and compare the similarities and differences across positions. This will include a treatment of how learners entree information, make sense of that information, and act on it in deliberate and purposeful ways as a agency of prosecuting with the universe. From there I will look into what these larning theories emphasize or give relevancy to the constructs of context, significance, and experience. The assorted positions each have something to state about the relationship between context, significance, and experience as they relate to acquisition, nevertheless the importance of these nucleus constructs differs in how each theory conceptualizes acquisition, and the importance of the function of context, significance, and experience. Finally, I will reason with illustrations that bring these positions to life in my mundane experience, and I will adhere these theories together within a cohesive apprehension of acquisition and instruction as it relates to the interrelatedness of the constructs of intrinsic motive, fluctuation, and transportation.Three theoretical positions on larningThere are legion theories of acquisition, each stressing a peculiar characteristic of the learning experience. Assorted theories of larning besides depict larning in different ways depending on the point of view of the perceiver. Each theory emphasizes thoughts related to context, significance, and experience in different ways as they relate to acquisition, both from the position of the scholar and from the instructor/teacher/coach/mentor.Constructivist/Cognitivist Perspectiveâ€Å" Objectivity is the psychotic belief that observations could bemade without an perceiver † ( von Foerster, 1995, pg. 5 )The Constructivist theoretical orientation holds that cognition is acquired experientially, is mediated by our anterior apprehension, and is based on the belief that we learn by making instead than detecting, and that cognition is built upon old acquisition. â€Å" The indispensable nucleus of constructivism is that scholars actively construct their ain cognition and intending from their experiences ( Doolittle, pg 1 ) Piaget was chiefly concerned with cognitive buildings that occurred as a consequence of interactions with†¦ Constructivism emerged from early surveies of acquisition, behavior, and depth psychology, and the behavioral point of views of Watson, along with Kohler and Koffka ‘s Gestalt psychological science. ( Tools pg. 7 ) Constructivism as theoretical apprehension exists along a continuum from â€Å" weak † to â€Å" strong † signifiers constructivism This is an adaptative procedure whereby behaviors evolve to run into the altering demands of the environment, and knowledge serves to makes sense of subjective experience. ( Doolittle, 1999, 1 ) Constructivism emerged from schools of behaviorism and objectivism, which held that there was a cognizable nonsubjective world that existed independent of the person. Constructivism takes the position that meaningful personal experience is the footing of cognition and acquisition. Persons construct intending within a context of personal experience that is rooted in linguistic communication, civilization, and the societal experiences of each person. There can be no objectively verifiable truth or cognition within constructivism, as each single brings a alone position grounded in their ain old cognizing. Much of this cognition is silent and resides in the inexplicit memory of the scholar, but it exerts its influence and acts as a filter through which the person â€Å" sees † new information and relates it to their apprehension of the universe. Knowledge and therefore acquisition is constructed within the head of the person. Constructivism rejects the impression of an nonsubjective and cognizable world independent of the perceiver, and holds that cognition of the universe is constructed through the active cognitizing on the portion of persons. Constructivism rejects the impression of an oberver-independent universe in favor of cognition reflecting the subjective worlds of the perceiver. ( Glaserfeld, 1989, p. 3 ) Knowledge is non a representation of world, but alternatively a â€Å" aggregation of conceptual constructions that turn out to be adapted or, as I would manner, feasible within the cognizing topic ‘s scope of experience. ( Glaserfeld, 1989, p. 4 ) Within Cognitive constructivism ( account of strategy theory, accomodation, assimilation ) . Cognitive constructivism adheres to theoretical accounts of cognition building that consider the function of memory, cognitive concepts, and scheme without sing to the full the subjective nature of cognition as occupant within the head of the topic. Knowledge in this sense implies an internal representation that accurately reflects an observer-independent external world. ( Doolittle, 1999, 2 ) Extremist constructivism differs from cognitive constructivism by progressing the thought that larning is an adaptative procedure, and that it is observer-dependent and resides in a fluid and dynamic knowledge that considers the subjective experience of cognition building. Extremist constructivism, like societal constructivism, besides accepts societal interactions as informing cognition building. Social constructivism takes the position that societal interactions contribute to cognize, and views the societal and cultural context as grounding cognition â€Å" to a specific clip and topographic point. ( doolittle pg 4 ) These assorted positions exist on a continuum, nevertheless the most cardinal apprehensions are shared. We all hold memories of old experiences ; those collected memories and experiences, both tacit and explicit, go the lens through which we view our current unfolding world. Emerging grounds within the kingdom of neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology may foretell farther homogenisation of constructivist doctrine and apprehension. Interpersonal neurobiology views the encephalon as a societal organ built through experience. This insight displacements Cognitive Constructivism farther along the continuum in the way of extremist and societal constructivism by imparting back uping grounds to the two staying epistemic dogmas, viz. that â€Å" knowledge organizes and makes sense of one ‘s experience, and that â€Å" knowing has roots in both biological/neurological building, and societal, cultural, and language-based interactions. † ( Doolittle, 1999 ) Learning is transactional, with experience act uponing cognitive building and the fictile cognitive buildings act uponing o ur experience in a dichotomy of experience and subjective world. As Carr provinces, â€Å" †¦ the turning organic structure of grounds makes clear that the memory inside our caputs is the merchandise of an inordinately complex natural procedure that is, at every blink of an eye, finely tuned to the alone environment in which each of us lives and the alone forms of experiences that each of us goes through. † ( Carr, 2010, P. ? ? ) Carr recounts some of the current research on memory and experience, and expands on the thought that our encephalon construction continuously changes with experience ; encephalon malleability, the turning and pruning of synaptic connexions over clip, changes our very memories and our remembrances of experience based on new experiences. ( Carr, 2010, p. 190 ) Researcher Kobi Rosenblum farther describes how memory, which in a sense is our recalled experience, can be a fictile and traveling mark. As he explains, â€Å" ..the human encephalon continues to treat information long after it is received, and the quality of memories depends on how the information is processed. † ( Carr, 2010, p. 191 )Meaning within Cognitivist/Constructivist PerspectiveMeaning as significance for each position, but it is built-in to an apprehension of constructivism. Meaning is cardinal to the intentionality of scholars ; relevancy and significance enhance a scholar ‘s ability to associate with th eir universe. It besides relates to constructs of motive as it relates to a scholars sense of bureau and battle with their experience, ad it highlights the importance of civilization and linguistic communication as societal go-betweens of larning? ? ? ? â€Å" The importance of these memory mechanisms to the development of cognitive psychological science is that, one time understood, they make it really clear that a individual ‘s ability to retrieve points is improved if the points are meaningfully related to each other or to the individual ‘s bing cognition. The cardinal word here is meaningful. â€Å" Wynn pg.4 â€Å" What is meaningful to people is determined by what they can retrieve of what they have already learned † . Wynn pg 4 Opportunities for larning within a constructivist model occur most readily when what is being learned has relevancy or high emotional valency for the scholar ; in other words when information or experiences are meaningful. In order for larning to be meaningful it should be relatable to old cognition and experience. This building-block theoretical account of cognition and experience is wholly consistent with a scholar as meaning-maker. The deductions for learning and educational teaching method are that undertakings that have significance and relevancy tend to be of greater intrinsic involvement to scholars. Research on the experience of larning speaks to the importance of significance as it relates to knowledge building, and speaks of the importance of liberty, bureau, pick, and coaction in driving our instrinsic motivational desires to prosecute in meaningful undertakings, retrieve and remember information, self-organize, and be funny. A larning context rich in significance is important.Context within Cognitivist/Constructivist PositionsLearning occurs most successfully at the intersection of a scholar ‘s old cognition of the universe and the experience of socially mediated interactions with others, and is influenced by all accumulated societal and cultural experiences. ( Bodrova & A ; Leong, 2007, p. 9 ) The context for larning resides within the experience and imaginativeness of the scholar, and is rooted in anterior experience and is mediated by teachers/facilitators and the ecological scene or context. Within this larning context, Feuerstein describes the function of mediation. â€Å" The go-between creates in a individual an attack, a signifier of mention, a desire to understand phenomena, a demand to happen order in them, to understand the order that is revealed, and to make it for oneself. † ( Feuerstein, Feuerstein, & A ; Falik, 2010, p. 37 ) Mediators can take many signifiers, but they portion in common an ability to potentiate a scholar ‘s ability to profit from larning experiences. In the absence of a go-between, even in instances where persons get cognition, they may non â€Å" understand its significance. † ( Feuerstein et al. , 2010, p. 37 )Experience within Cognitivist/Constructivist PositionsAs scholars construct their ain experiential world within a societal and cultural context, the dyadic interactions that unfold connote a grade of coaction and battle with acquisition that is per se motivated by a meaningful context within which larning occurs/unf olds. Collaborative acquisition is by its nature socially constructed acquisition, where the involvement of scholars is cardinal, meaningful, and contextual. Decontextualized acquisition by contrast deficiencies a sense of connexion to the experience of acquisition. Prior experiences of larning are diminished when there is no meaningful context, and reliable experiential acquisition suffers. When pick around construction and content is collaboratively negotiated, scholars are granted a degree of liberty around how and what they learn, and experiences that are meaningful topographic point larning within a context more suited to the acquisition manner, ends, and precedences of the scholar. Kohn emphasizes these conditions of coaction, content, and pick, as making the conditions necessary for reliable and per se motivated larning to emerge. ( Kohn, ? ? ? )Phenomenograpy/Variation Theoryâ€Å" There is no larning without understanding. And there is nounderstanding without fluctuation. † ( Marton, Trigwell, 2000 )The theory of phenomenography is connected with the survey of human experience, peculiarly as it relates to educational research. Phenomenography examines believing and larning within the context of educational research, and seeks apprehension of â€Å" the different ways in which people experience, interpret, understand, perceive, or gestate a phenomenon, or certain facet of world. † ( Orgill, ? ? ? ? ) Marton defines phenomenography as â€Å" a qualitative research methodological analysis, within the interpretivist paradigm, that investigates the qualitatively different ways in which people experience something or believe about something † ( Marton, 1986 ) . One of the cardinal epistemic dogmas? ? ? related to Phenomenographic theory relates to constructs of fluctuation, understanding, and transportation. Marton postulates that in order for larning to happen, â€Å" †¦ at that place must needfully be a form of fluctuation nowadays to see, and this form must be experienced † . ( Marton, fluctuation, pg.1 ) . In order for larning to happen, scholars must see a broad scope of fluctuation in experience, with sameness or similarity lending small to our apprehension of experience. Variation and difference create a broader context for understanding experience, and besides spread out our repertory when meeting fresh state of affairss or fortunes. This transportation of acquisition is built-in to variation theory and a cardinal underpinning of phenomenography. Experiencing difference or fluctuation may be likened to experiences of cognitive disagreement within constructivist theoretical accounts of acquisition, where an single experiences disagreement and a disturbance and must set their construct of this new information within their existing paradigm. How we categorize, makes sens e of, or place with that difference relates to our understanding accomplishments. Discernment allows a topic to see or feel an experience â€Å" against the background of his or her old experiences of something more or less different. † ( Marton, pg.386 ) . In kernel, as topics experience greater fluctuation they become more attuned to progressively subtle differences between the â€Å" physical, cultural, symbolic, or animal universe † that they inhabit. ( Marton, pg 386 ) Every phenomenon that is experienced merely in contrast to jump experiences of the same phenomenon ( marton, pg 387 ) The deductions for teaching method centre on the use of the objects of fluctuation in order for scholars to see fluctuation, go expert at discerning, and reassign larning across state of affairss. â€Å" Excellence in instruction has really much to make with what facets of the object of larning are subjected to fluctuation, and what facets of the object are capable to fluctuation at the same time. † ( Marton, pg. 391 ) Subjects learn to pull off freshness as a consequence of holding experienced freshness through fluctuation. ( Marton, pg. 394 ) . Transportation is concerned with how â€Å" what is learned in one state of affairs affects or influences what the scholar is capable of making in another situation. â€Å" ( Marton, pg. 499 )Meaning within Phenomenographic/Variation Theory PerspectiveContext within Phenomenographic/Variation Theory PerspectiveA construct that illuminates thoughts of context within the phenomenographic position relates to constructs of located acqui sition. Situated in this case â€Å" refers to what surrounds the learning event ; that is, to the socially constructed life-world in which a peculiar case of larning occurs. † ( Sameness in transportation, pg. 511 ) Sameness and difference in larning and experience are acknowledged, nevertheless â€Å" †¦ the extent to which we can do usage of something we have learned in one state of affairs to manage another state of affairs is a mom Decision Learning is non merely geting new information and hive awaying it on top of the information we already have. It involves run intoing something unexpected ( what? ? ? might depict as a disturbance ) , something that can non be easy explained by those theories or apprehensions we have already developed. To decide that struggle we have to alter what we antecedently believed ( kohn, pg 187? ? ) This account is the tie that binds constructivism, fluctuation, theory and strategy theory to societal acquisition, along with thoughts of motive and personal bureau.

Surveillance of literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Surveillance of literature - Essay Example These imbalances are identifiable in tenses and temporal orientation. The imbalance has been brought about by constant development of new technologies, which have served to displace historical literature analysis, and introduced new ways of literature analysis. This has caused tracing the historical development of the social environment a big challenge, which can only be overcome through learning the history of surveillance, notably the change from the pre-computerized duration to the computerized age of post modernity (Genosko & Thompson, 2006 p123). Therefore, this article presents two major issues, which are analyzed from their traditional perspective to their post-modernity nature. The two major concepts are: Temporal disunity This is a major concept presented by the article, where a disparity between the traditional concepts of time and the present concepts are identified. In the post modernity era, the concept of time has become more and more vivid, especially as it relates to the present and real time definition (Genosko & Thompson, 2006 p129). There is a thin line between the present and the real-time in the post-computer era, as compared to the pre-computer era, where the sequence of activities was traceable, giving a clear difference between what was happening presently and what was happening in real-time (Mehlbaum, 2011 p29).... However, this has changed in the post modernity era, where information is generated from the computer, where it has been stored, losing the temporal essence of the literature (Hedgecock, 2008 p63). This is because, although the information could be recorded with details such as the date and the time a transaction occurred, it is not possible to define the actual behavior of the individual at the time of the occurrence of that event (Genosko & Thompson, 2006 p130). Thus, the introduction of ICT has changed surveillance of literature from an initial form where it was visible, to the post modern form where the event remains known, but invisible. The post modernity surveillance of literature is beneficial since it has simplified and automated the process, making it possible to easily record and retrieve information on any given subject, whenever such an action is deemed necessary. However, it has made the process of recreating meaning both hard and uncertain (Lyon, 2007 p209). This has o ccurred because, while the pre-computer era allowed for physical observation of literature and the consequent construction of meaning, based on the observable behavior, the case is different for the post modernity era. The transformation of the temporal horizon by the ICT in the post modernity era has eliminated the chances of criticizing past events, since the visible aspect of the literature is nonexistent. Additionally, the transformation of the temporal horizon has made it difficult for the interpretation of the history of past events to occur (Genosko & Thompson, 2006 p131). The emphasis on the concept of real-time by the post modernity era has resulted to the convergence of both the past and the future in duration-less platform, where it is no longer

Statement of Purpose Personal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Of Purpose - Personal Statement Example Criminology is my favorite subject and I think this is a right time for me to go further in the field of criminology as I have not only completed my bachelor degree but also I fully determined to establish my career in criminal justice department. My good grades in the criminology related subjects, which I studied at bachelor level, also show my extreme interest and aptitude in the field of criminal justice. Another reason why am I interested in the master degree program that is being offered by the University of South Florida is my passion and determination to obtain master degree from one of the top universities of the world. I am seeking my professional career in criminal justice, and that can be possible if I study under guidance of highly experienced faculty of this university. My English language proficiency, educational background in criminal justice, and interest in this field make me a suitable candidate for getting admission in the University of South Florida. The Universit y of South Florida is known for its talented faculty not only in the fields of accounting, public health, and arts, but also in all other courses that are being offered by the university. It is due to the well-experienced faculty of University of South Florida, that today I feel very pleased while thinking of doing my masters from this university.

Impacts of Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss as a Mathematician Term Paper

Impacts of Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss as a Mathematician - Term Paper Example In his lifetime, Gauss had hardly made a contribution to the field of mathematics. It is said that the German mathematician was aloof to the pubic world of the mathematicians notable in his days. Gauss only communicated to a few of his trusted friends who were also strongly inclined to mathematics. Besides Bolyai, Schumacher was one of Gauss’s trusted correspondence in which the latter confided to the former about his spending a â€Å"considerable time on geometry† (Tent, 2006, p. 214). On the other hand, upon the death of the gifted mathematician -- and the subsequent discovery of his mathematical notes and ideas -- the world of mathematics had never been the same. Particularly his contribution to the shaping of the so-called non-Euclidean geometry, Gauss had made an impact to the sphere of geometry. His schoolmate Bolyai had asked him, for several times, pertaining to his view to Euclid’s fifth postulate -- also known as the parallel postulate. But Gauss did no t disclose his discovery concerning the existence of the non-Euclidean geometry for the reason that he did not want to â€Å"rock the boat† (Tent, 2006, p. 215). True, Gauss’s non-Euclidean geometry -- first he called it as anti-Euclidean -- had caused a stir in the area of mathematics marked in the late 18th century. Non-Euclidean geometry is basically defined as an area in geometry in which Euclid’s first four postulates are held but the fifth postulate has a quite different and distinct version in contrast to what is stated in the Elements (Weisstein, 2011). Among various versions of non-Euclidean geometry, the so-called hyperbolic geometry is where Gauss belongs to. In one of their conversations, Gauss revealed to Schumacher about his anti-Euclidean geometry: â€Å"I realized that there also had to be triangles whose three angles add up to more or less than 1800 in the non-Euclidean world. I had it all mapped out† (Tent, 2006, 214, my italics). Here, Gauss categorized the fundamental elements of his newly found mathematics. That is to say, Gauss’s non-Euclidean geometry is a departure from two-dimensional geometry characterized in Euclidean mathematics. Gauss’s hyperbolic geometry, in fact, works greatly in three-dimensional geometry or space. Thence, the impact of Gauss’s mathematical discovery, if not innovation, was quite evident especially within the field of mathematics. For one, Gauss had opened up a new world or knowledge about the wider space or scope of mathematics, particularly geometry. That is, man does not live in a narrow two-dimensional space. Based from this paradigm (i.e., hyperbolic geometry), one can explore the multifarious possibilities laid open by non-Euclidean geometry. Perhaps the greatest impact of Gauss’s hyperbolic mathematics is found in the sphere of astronomy. In 1801, for instance, Gauss’s mathematics had greatly facilitated the discovery of a dwarf planet named Ceres (Tyson, 2004). Evidently, this is the triumph of mathematics. Utilizing the non-Euclidean geometry, it became possible for man to calculate the universe even without the use of advanced technology such as the telescope. Using Gauss’s hyperbolic geometry, man is able to see the cosmos beyond the Euclidean geometry can offer. Space, after all, is three-dimensional -- be it space in/on earth or in the universe. Generally, non-Euclidean geo

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

Managing people - Essay Example will require people’s perspective and behaviour to change bringing in the human impact into the change and making the change strategy more complex (Anderson & Anderson, 2001). Now let’s analyse the change in particular. The first reaction of the employees to this change is that of dissatisfaction and anger. The employees will view this decision as the company’s greed for making money through parking charges. To them this change will not just burn a hole in their pockets but also cause a lot of inconvenience as their commuting time will increase and their personal time will take a hit if they decide to commute by public transport. The quality of their life can change drastically as a result of this change. Therefore, a widespread opposition should be expected and the organizational change must be planned accordingly. Most models of organizational change involve the entire process of identifying the problem, finding a solution, developing a strategy and then implementing it. In the current context, the problem and the solution have already been identified. Hence, it is now up to designing and implementing a successful strategy to carry out the change. Three key strategies to managing organizational change are communication, participation and support. It is through these three the current change can be effectively managed. For employees to adjust effectively to change, it is essential to communicate the reason, purpose and need behind the change (Walker, 2010). In the current context, it is highly essential to communicate that the main reason behind the change. It must be made clear to all the employees that this is not a money making initiative but an imitative to play by the rules and ensure that there would be no discomfort caused to others due to the negligence of the few. Also it must be communicated that the initiative would result in positive effects of the environment by bringing down the carbon footprint of the company. It is only when this is

Issue 18&19 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Issue 18 - Coursework Example Memphis University scholars suggest that overseas outsourcing have more advantages to an organization. For instance, it enables the firm to pursue the most labor cost. Labor cost varies significantly from one country to another. Therefore, outsourcing will allow the company to choose the country that it feels that its work is not very costly (Axelrod, 2004). Moreover, adopting lower labor cost will enable the organization to produce its services at a lower cost and as well provide services at more reduced prices. Finally, reduced Labor allows the organization enhances their business profits. Because of deferent perception to outsourcing, it can create a platform for politics. For instance, many argue that outsourcing causes the jobs that can be done by the locals to move overseas. On the other hand, outsourcing will also help the particular country to boost its domestic economy. On the contrary, practitioners argue that offshoring can have the local options (Müller & Müller, 2000). Firms seek to offshore labor in order to keep labor cost at a minimum level as possible, so as their services and products can reach their potential customers at a lesser cost. From an international point of view, countries outsource professional jobs to countries that have the most cost efficient labor. The most popular outsourcing countries are China and India. Employees in these countries have adequate educational backgrounds to enable them to carry successfully out the tasks ahead of them. However, outsourcing has its merits and demerits that firms and countries need to put into consideration before starting the exercise. Outsourcing allows the company to operate in an increasingly competitive marketplace across the world. In addition, outsourcing enables the firm provides service and products in 24 hours daily, more so to the customers who need around the clock

XML as a programming tool Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

XML as a programming tool - Essay Example Deriving an electronic representation of the paper documents would allow users to view them on a computer screen, take their printouts or store them in the database; however, to achieve this objective, standard forms for different document types and accompanying style sheets would be required. At present, still most of the exchange of information in the health care industry is carried out through printed documents that convey the information in two ways: the content of the document that contains the words, pictures and other information, and the format of the content that provides visual clues for font, font size and location (Sokolowski & Dudeck, 1999). Recently, XML (eXtensible Markup Language), a subset of SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language), has gained widespread popularity in the health care industry because it provides a mechanism to encode healthcare documents and their types into electronic form, and therefore, has led to the development of implementation recommendations in the form of a set of standard DTDs to standardize and match the electronic document requirements in the health care industry (Sokolowski & Dudeck, 1999). DTDs (Data Type Definitions) are crucial for health care informatics as they provide a facility for standardizing formats with style sheets, provide a document information model, provide context for narrative text, and allow for agreement on high-level structures. They describe the structure of the document, the names of the allowable elements, the content of each element type, the structure of the document including the order in which the elements must appear (Sokolowski & Dudeck, 1999). The Darwin Information Typing Architecture (DITA) is designed to provide an XML framework for developing product documentation and has seen rapid adoption and implementation as compared to other approaches for purpose of

One of the 10 Principles of Caregiving Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

One of the 10 Principles of Caregiving - Essay Example All I can remember about my childhood is the quality times we used to spend together engaging in different types of activities, but the most memorable is the Sunday afternoon family reunion, where my mother ensured that all the members of our family were at home on Sunday afternoons, during which we could undertake different activities together such as making the family barbeque in our backyard. However, the most interesting thing about the family reunion is that I enjoyed the highest attention as the youngest in our family, and out of it, I still wish to be home all Sunday afternoons, since it is the time that I ever experienced true love in a way that has not been possible to experience from the outside world. The experience relates to spending quality time principle of caregiving, in that through spending a lot of time together with my mother and also the rest of the family members especially on Sunday afternoons have triggered the emotional response of wanting to be home every Sunday afternoon. Additionally, the quality time we spent together did not just create value in terms of time sent, but the effect was the formation of a long-lasting bond of love that does not only unite the two of us, but also the whole family. The quality time spent together with my mother at childhood has enabled me to learn things easily as well as develop strong relationships with my immediate family members. The bonding between me and my mother did not only help to bond the two of us, but also to bond and integrate me to the family system in a manner that has made anyone of our immediate family strongly attached to our mother. This love and attention that I received has been the basis of my relationship with all members of the female gender, since I have developed the tendency to interact with them as tender, kind and caring members of the society, since that is all I was able

The explanatory gap Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The explanatory gap - Essay Example John Levine introduced the explanatory gap for the difficulty that the mind theories of physicalists have in explaining the physical properties in giving rise to the way things experienced when they are felt. Levine in his 1983 article used the explanatory gap to point out that even though it might be applicable in a physiological sense, the explanatory gap does not aid our understanding of pain feeling. The explanatory gap has intrigued and vexed a number of researchers and philosophers in a similar way in the past decades and resulted into a considerable debate. Finding a fulfilling and gratifying mechanistic explanation to bridge the gap is a hard problem. This paper seeks to define the explanatory gap, and highlight whether or not the explanatory gap poses an obstacle to materialism with reference to the work of Levine. The explanatory gap infers that there is an existence of a gap of consistent and rational meaningful information that describe and account for characteristics and qualities of consciousness processes, content and states that it is explicable to a rational and logical level of mastery. That is to say, explanatory gap is in the human concept. The term explanatory gap does not illustrate a gap in nature, but rather a gap in our own understanding of nature (Levine 1983). Joseph Levine in his works demonstrates the explanatory gap as an obstacle to materialism. Materialism holds that there exist identities between material kinds and conscious kinds. Joseph Levine illustrates that pain is identical with the C-fibers firing, and also gives an example of viewing something are red which is identical with an activity in the visual V4 area cortex. Joseph Levine also looks at the explanatory gap as an obstacle to materialism in the line with contemporary orthodoxy materialist, and that such kind of identities are posteriori. Levine argues that it is a matter of scientific investigation, to ascertain whether or not pain is the firing C-fibers, rather tha n conceptual reflection to seeing things as red is an activity in the V4 area in the visual cortex. In this regard, the identities of mind and brain that are discovered will be of the same kind to such exemplary a posteriori identities of science as that of temperature is mean kinetic energy, or that of water is H2O. There is also a good scientific evidence for the presence of such like brain and mind identities. In particular cases, there are direct evidence in the co-occurrence of certain material kinds and conscious kinds. Joseph Levine even asserted that the identities of mind and brain strike quite differently from the apparently corresponding scientific identities (Levine 1983). Levine cites some questions to demonstrate the explanatory gap as an obstacle to materialism: presume that we actually have evidence that pain is the same as firing of C-fiber and is one. Would we not still want to try and find out why firing of C-fiber feels pain instead of something else? And why the re is pain in the firing of the C-fiber? There is however no analogous questions that press on us in most of the scientific cases. For example, after finding out that water is H2O, there is no further feeling of the need to know why even when there is H2O, we still have water, or why water is H2O and not anything else. This is the reason Joseph Levine coined the explanatory gap in order to give an impression that something have been left unexplained by mind and brain identities. Many other philosophers besides Joseph Levine have argued that explanatory gap emerges because people cannot draw from the facts

Modern Art Essay Example for Free

Modern Art Essay Some people consider modern arts not serious. In this regard, the question â€Å"Can we think of modern art as real art? † comes into existence. So to answer to this question we need to take for consideration what is art in general and what forms it has. There are a variety of arts, including visual arts and design, decorative arts, plastic arts and the performing arts. So, Art is defined as the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination. And artistic expression takes many forms: painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, music, literature, and architecture are the most widely recognized forms. To begin with, when we speak about modern art, in most cases we think about the field of fine arts. Because exactly fine arts underwent the visible changes for centuries. The number of styles of painting is enormous. Artistic works can be grouped by styles according to the common principles of creative thinking. Each epoch is characterized by a certain worldview; that is why throughout the centuries the ways of thinking about art was also changing. Fine arts faced such styles as Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Classicism, Realism, Impressionism and so on. Modern art refers to works produced during the period from 1870. Typically, modern artists rejected previous Renaissance-based traditions, in favour of new forms of artistic experimentation. They used new materials, new techniques of painting, and developed new theories about how art should reflect the perceived world. And nowadays there exists a great amount of styles of Modern art, for example: Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Performance Art, Dada Style, Neoplasticism, Surrealist Style, Postminimalism, Graffiti Art, etc. Concerning the question of modern art it’s quite difficult to judge, but nevertheless people are divided into two sides: pros and cons. First and foremost art implies the inseparability of form and content and of course talent. Famous artists affirmed that it is necessary to master the skill the main component of the art. But many modern works have lack of this component. Modern art has no its purpose to create the artistic work, that is why modern artists are indifferent to internal connection of form and content. Therefore it is impossible without accompanying comment; for example the artist can grab a canvas, paint it in different colours and put some strokes on it, and this kind of painting can represent his happiness. Because it is often said that modern art can be done without any talent or efforts. After all real art needs to show emotion, beauty, and needs to be a window to the artists  emotions. Art is something that you see and must look deeply into to understand or find beauty in. Modern art is art that a 5 year old can do so it has too little effort to be considered art. Many people believe that such so called artists are supported by the mass media, that is why their works are sold for million dollars. Every person could take a brush and do smth like that, but no one would buy this daub. They say Leonardo was a great artist. Raphael was a great artist, but modern ones can’t be compared. So for the great majority of people modern art is not serious. On the other hand, who is anyone to judge what real art is? After all our understanding of art comes to nothing more than our school knowledge about periods of Renaissance, Classicism or Modern. Just because one doesnt like or understand the art, doesnt mean that the art is not real art. Besides, it should be noted that there is the term contemporary art, meaning the work of artists of the 90-ies of XX century. It represents the mirror of contemporary world. And often great

Future Trends in Operations Management

Future Trends in Operations Management A key feature of the current business environment is the idea that supply chains compete, not companies It has become commonly recognized that a companys survival is primarily a question of its competitiveness. At the heart of it is the constant need to rapidly grow and capture the leading market positions. Modern economic conditions force businesses to provide the highest level of customer satisfaction by performing perfect consumer service, delivering a wide variety of quality products in shorter lead time and at a reasonable cost. This creates incredible opportunities for individual consumers and puts great pressures on companies to seek for the new ways to appeal consumers. Other that that, contemporary business environment brings a huge level of uncertainty to managers of all levels and urges them to be able to sense all the changes and implement the right and timely measures to be successful. This uncertainty may come from government decisions, customers and consumers, shareholders that demand increased return from what they invest into business. This is how Dennis McCarthy and D r. Nick Rich describe current business situation in their book on business-led changes called Lean TPM: The new competitive conditions are far removed from those of the past and challenge strategies such that we can no longer assume that: Past business success is a guarantee of future survival; Product patens will protect a manufacturer from competition; Buying the latest technology will provide a means of defense against competition. Technology or products by themselves are not enough to guarantee survival (McCarthy and Rich, 2004). Clearly, as a result of the new trends and new economic realities managing operations and supply chain has become extremely complex and challenging. We believe that the list of the key pressures that these authors outline in their book to describe modern economic conditions not only perfectly well describes challenges facing the world today, but also gives a good insight into how these may effect supply chain in particular, including its design, management and future business integration. According to McCarthy and Rich they include: 1. New and emerging manufacturing economies with low labour costs are  attracted to mature Western markets where they can exploit their cost  advantage. The power of the internet in purchasing materials and components on a global scale and therefore access to alternative suppliers has increased exponentially. As such, power has shifted to the customer/consumer. Deregulation of world markets has resulted from international trading agreements and this has liberated trade and increased competition for manufacturers. Corporations have the ability to switch production. Pressure groups and lobbyists seeking to lower prices or convince the manufacturer to improve their performance in areas such as environmental management. Shareholders who expect a year on year improvement in the returns on their money invested and constantly compare these returns with what their money could earn elsewhere. Customers expect product variety, continuously improving quality levels, lead time reduction and want their stocks reduced (McCarthy and Rich, 2004). Benita M. Beamon also adds to this list extreme climate change as one of the essential factors that will also effect future world business configuration since its change would threaten transportation infrastructures, natural resources supply including the constrained supply of natural energy and raw materials as such, and would change overall human behavior patterns which as a result will drastically influence the ability to supply worldwide (Beamon, 2008). Although operations and supply chain management is often seen as merely routine activities, it is indeed very sensitive to almost all business changes and, therefore, fairy regarded now as one of the critical business concerns and has the priority in managing the organization. This is why we chose to reflect on the above mentioned trends to study their effect on the supply chain and operations and, thus, track current and future challenges in this area. 1. It is now obvious that the world economy has faced large structural changes in recent years on the way to bring businesses to more international basis. There can hardly be found now any operation that does not sell to or buy from foreign markets. Globalization of businesses has significantly accelerated, resulting in new challenges for companies on the global market. Sixth annual survey performed by PRTM Management Consultants showed that respondents consistently rank acceleration of supply chain globalization as a top priority over the next several years concluding that the primary shift of manufacturing and assembly operations has been to low cost country destinations including China, India and Eastern Europe (2008). It can be summarized that expansion of operations supply chain to cover the whole world still stays number one trend due to its cost reduction opportunities and, therefore, puts additional challenges to cope with these increased pressures. With that in mind, product quality and safety as well as supply chain delivery and security become the main concern for organizations globalizing their supply chains, thus, providing additional business risks. 2. Number two trend logically follows from the business expansion to improve global performance and flexibility companies seek for the alternative ways to control operations, fasten processes, and simplify procedures. Increased pressures are also put on them to improve coordination and achieve overall integration with suppliers and customers. Internet, e-commerce, e-procurement and other web-based applications offer major cost savings and advantages. Simon R. Croom studied the positive effects of e-business strategy implementation on supply chain management. In his research Supply Chain Management in the E-Business Era the following advantages were outlined: New e-business infrastructures offer a wider range of activities within supply chain, e.g. electronic marketplaces including larger numbers of buyers and sellers; Increased use of electronic methods for searching and sourcing which reduces coordination costs and increase the proportion of economic activities coordinated by markets, companies are encouraged to use more out-sourcing, low coordination costs will also enable companies to buy goods and services less expensively; Information processing is reduced; Additional opportunities provided by the use of E-procurement. Its advantages include: greater visibility of the procurement process, improved management of maintenance, repair and operating supplies, improved stock management, better information for purchasing decision-making, supply base reduction followed by the change of the supply chains structure, significant efficiency gains with the attention to the role and development of purchasing as a core capability of the organization, it also provides a powerful platform from which to exploit the organizations strategic leverage and undertake major total supply chain cost improvements (Croom, 2001). 3. Number three trend, we believe, is another logical result of the two mentioned above rapid growth of new information technologies raised the issue of accumulated information and knowledge management. Accumulation of knowledge relates to both customer relationship formation and product innovation process. At the heart of this concept is the recognition of the fact that knowledge is the key driver of the value-adding processes. It has been fairly noted by the theorists of operations management that the way in which products or services were created was not random; they were the product of a whole collection of decisions and actions based on an even larger collection of knowledge (Slack, Chambers, Johnston, 2007). So, it is obvious that the concept of knowledge management will significantly influence the future development of operations and supply chain management as it provides the expertise that underpins companys competitive advantage. 4. Trend number four, that needs to be discussed in more detail, from our point of view, and should be grouped into a separate trend is that of the future integration of the supply chain and future development in such areas as business-to-business, business-to-customer and customer-to-customer relationships. It is indeed evident now, in the new era that the supply chain has become more connected and integrated that ever before due to the rapid growth of new information technologies, web-based applications and other alternative communication means. Companies constantly seek for developing new creative ways to communicate with suppliers, customers and consumers. It especially relates to service-based and product-based supply chain. On-line ordering, availability 24 hours a day, seven days a week, great variety of products and services, no issues with transportation and so on, all this has drastically improved the efficiency of the supply chain. Customers are also encouraged to communic ate with each other by means of widespread social networks: blogs, forums, portals which allows instant information sharing. All this, we believe, will keep on changing the way in which the supply chain operates towards increased capacities and efficiencies of the supply chain. 5. Another trend that can not be mentioned with all reflected earlier is the problem of environmental responsibility and sustainability or green supply chain. Opinions of researchers differ here in weather it will be the result of the state legislation compliance and customer requirements or it will be one of the effective ways to improve companys image and reputation. Our consideration is that it will be both. No need to deny that the pressures from the legislation are increasing which urges almost all companies to put in place relevant environmental management. The concept of waste management has also gained popularity in recent years as it implies waste reduction that in all its forms significantly saves cost for the organization which conventionally coincides here with environmental responsibility. We can already see that companies have started large campaigns towards recyclable materials application, new product design to consider their life cycle beyond their traditional shelf- life to extract more value from precious natural resources, reduction of energy and water consumption, use of alternative fuels and many other. It is obvious that the concept of environmental responsibility will take the key role in day-to-day operations management decisions and every day practices due to its great economic potential for the firm. We think that this list can be continued with more and more trends and business challenges, however, from our point of view these 5 give the fullest picture of what to expect from the environment in which we exist. It reflects the key processes that both companies and each of us as a consumer is involved on the daily basis. We have identified some of the challenges and complexities that are characteristic of operations and supply chain today and have attempted to analyze these to possibly see their future development. It is obvious that uncertainty and complexity will still be the main characteristics of the global business environment in the future. However, managers will have the advantage of the emerging information and communication technologies that will provide real time data to support operational decision-making and will help to improve efficiency of processes in the area of the use of resources, materials handling and product design. Question 2 In the second part of the assignment I will compare the company that I work for with the performed literature review and based on this comparison will outline its main competitive advantages. I have been working for Nestlà © for 6 years, starting from the small water factory just acquired by the Company. I worked as an Interpreter then, being heavily involved in the translation of the Group policies, specifications, guidelines and instructions, which the factory was going to implement to meet worldwide Nestlà © standards. I believe it is an excellent example that reflects all challenges and perplexities of the modern business conditions. With its headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland Nestlà © was founded in 1866 by Henri Nestlà © and is today the worlds leading nutrition, health and wellness  company. It employs around 280  000 people and have factories or operations in almost every country in the world. The list of products includes over 127000 items of different types and sizes. This complexity, therefore, is the main characteristic of its supply chain. Managing thousands of supply chains in many countries, controlling invoicing of customers and collecting payments, predicting demand and tracking stocks all this at some point put the Company in a very risky situation which required such a solution that would put order in all this variety. So, the Company, had undertaken steps towards the implementation of GLOBE, or the Global Business Excellence model aimed at creating a single system to simplify and unify the way to manage supply chain and operate such functions, like purchasing and invoicing. The imp lementation of this model has provided not only an excellent tool to optimize operational cost, but also has served as a key driver for generating business value by creating a culture of continuous excellence, collaboration and support both cross functionally and between various operations worldwide. It is indeed true that the implementation of GLOBE taught the Company to operate as a global market player. Another thing that the Company claims that has helped it to sustain in the times of turbulence and uncertainty is its strict compliance with the Company Corporate Business Principles that say: Nestlà ©s existing products grow through innovation and renovation while maintaining a balance in geographic activities and product lines. Long-term potential is never sacrificed for short-term performance. The Companys priority is to bring the best and most relevant products to people, wherever they are, whatever their needs, throughout their lives (Appendix, 4). It is always stressed, however, that the Companys main business principle is the conviction that to have long-term success for their shareholders, all the operations not only have to comply with all applicable legal requirements and ensure that all the activities are sustainable, but additionally have to create significant valu e for society(Appendix, 2). Other things that the Company claims to be the basis of its culture and is considered to be the essential part of its long-term established reputation are of course its quality assurance and product safety. The quality policy says: Nestlà © strives to create value that can be sustained over the long term by meeting consumer needs for nutrition, enjoyment and Quality they can trust (Appendix, 7). This is achieved through no waste attitude and continuous improvement of the quality standards delivered to consumers. Adequate recourses, equipment, procedures and systems, trainings and teamwork play the major role in the implementation of high standards and achievement of excellence and competitiveness. All functions across the Value Chain are fully responsible for observing mandatory principles, norms and instructions, for maintaining agreed Quality standards and for constantly improving them is another essential postulate of the Quality Policy (Appendix, 7). Consumer communication is also considered within the Company as the key indicator of all ongoing activities. All opinions, complaints and shortcomings are analyzed and serve as a tool for immediate correction and improvement if needed. Nestlà © Consumer Communications Principles state the Companys commitment to responsible, reliable consumer communication that empowers consumers to exercise their right to informed choice and promotes healthier diets (Appendix, 3). It is fair to note that supplier and consumer relations are an important part of the Companys vision on creating shared value. Doing business in the way that requires from the Companys contractors, subcontractors and their employees to demonstrate honesty, integrity and fairness; in the same way that the Company itself is demonstrating its commitment to its consumers. Supplier Code specifies these principles and helps their implementation within all suppliers and their community. By accepting these, suppliers take the responsibility of being compliant with the core principles of business integrity, sustainability, labor standards, safety and health, environment and other. Implementation of the vendor data base has helped to track and manage its suppliers in accordance with the Company principles and values. One other concept that has been in focus in recent years is that of environmental management and sustainability aimed at improvement of environmental performance, operations activities in this area, risk and cost reduction, long-term availability of raw materials and water. In its Environmental Policy the Company states: At all stages of the product life cycle we strive to use natural resources efficiently, favour the use of sustainably-managed renewable resources, and target zero waste(Appendix, 6). Target areas for improvement initiatives include: application of a life cycle approach with systematic assessments of all activities across the Value Chain, effective water resources management to provide a common mythology to measure water footprint of products, processes and organizations, reduction of gas omissions from its operations through proper energy consumption management, switching to renewable sources and transport and distribution initiatives with focus on green fleet and op timization of the distributions schemes and packaging, elimination of wastes in all operations through the Value Chain with the goal of zero waste and full recovery of unavoidable by products (Appendix, 6). The list of initiatives that Nestlà © has undertaken can be much longer that these. However, we believe that these are the main ones that reflect the Companys vision on doing business and on the way it adds value to all its activities to finally sustain and prosper in times of uncertainty and risk. As it is seen from our study it closely coincides with the literature review that we performed to define the major challenges and future trends in operations and supply chain management. This study proves the fact that constant development and applications of advanced information and communication technologies, focus on the development of relationships with both consumers and suppliers, expansion of the social responsibility with attention to environmental issues, social activities will be the main value-adding factors and efficient tools against business risks and uncertainties. REFERENCES Beamon B.M.(2008). Sustainability and the Future of Supply Chain Management. Industrial Engineering, University of Washington. Christopher M. (1992) Logistics and Supply Chain Management. First edition. London: Financial Times Croom S.R. (2001) Supply Chain Management in the E-Business Era. An investigation into Supply Chain Strategies, Practices and Progress in E-Business Adoption. McCarthy D., Rich N. (2004) Lean TPM. Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann Sixth Annual Survey (2008). Global Supply Chain Trends 2008-2010. Driving Global Supply Chain Flexibility through Innovation. Available at http://www.prtm.com (Accessed: September 2010). Slack N., Chambers S., Johnston. (2007) Operations Management. Fifth edition. Pearson Education Limited. Steinert-Threlkeld T. (2006) Nestlà © Pieces Together Its Global Supply Chain. Available at http://www.baselinemag.com (Accessed: December 8, 2010)

A Financial Comparison Between Two Companies Finance Essay

A Financial Comparison Between Two Companies Finance Essay Find the most recent financial statements for two companies of same industry which are listed in KLSE (Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange). Evaluate the financial position and performance for each of these two companies using accounting ratio analysis. You are required to compute and compare the accounting ratios between these two companies, and conclude the results of your finding. The limitations or problems of using accounting ratios for performance analysis should be include in your conclusion. INTRODUCTION Accounting ratio is one number that expressed in terms of another relationship between two or various figures and company that can be compared. Example it can be shown in a view from balance sheet, profit and loss account, and budgetary control system or in any accounting organization that shows relationship between accounting data. The purpose of accounting ratio is simplifies the comprehension of financial statements and condition by successful and unsuccessful firm. Other than that it also helps in the of planning, forecasting and assist management and it helps in case of investors and lending decision of bankers. The 5 aspect of business measured by accounting ratios is: Profitability that is how far the company earns profit, Liquidity is to measure the financial status, Asset management is how far the company can manage their finance, Debts management is how they manage their tax, and Market value of investment to ordinary shareholders is how they create their market value book. FORMULA THAT USED MEASURE EACH ASPECT OR AREA OF BUSINESS Profitability of company A) Gross profit markup (%) = ÃÆ'- 100 Gross profit = Sales Cost of the good / Opening stock + Purchase Closing stock B) Gross profit margin (%) = ÃÆ'- 100 Net sales value = Sales Return inwards C) Operating profit margin on sales (%) = ÃÆ'-100 D) Profit margin on sales (%) =ÃÆ'-100 = Profit after interest, after tax, after preference dividend after minority interest ÃÆ'-100 Net sales value E) Basic earning power (BEP) = ÃÆ'- 100 Total asset = Fixed assets + Current asset F) Return on Total assets = ÃÆ'- 100 = Profit after interest, after tax, after preference dividend after minority interest ÃÆ'-100 Net sales value G) Return on common equity = ÃÆ'-100 = Profit after interest, after tax, after preference dividend after minority interest ÃÆ'-100 ( Ordinary share capital + Reserves ) OR (Total assets Total liabilities) Liquidity of company A) Current ratio / Working capital ratio = B) Liquid ratio / quick ratio / acid test ratio = Asset management of company A) Inventory Turnover or Stock turnover = or B) Total Assets Turnover = Total asset = Fixed asset + current asset C) Debtor Ratio = D) Days sales outstanding = Debts management A) Debts ratio = Total Debts = Long time liabilities + Current liabilities Total asset = Fixed assets + Current asset B) Debts equity ratio = C) Times interest earned or Interest cover = Market value of investments to stockholders A) Earnings per share = = B) Price earnings ratio = C) Earnings yield = = D) Market price per book value ratio = = Inter-temporal comparisons between two periods are the comparison value that happens between years in one industry for example year 2009 and 2010. Inter-firms comparison between two companies is a different accounting policies and rules and regulation that they created like in IJM BERHAD and GAMUDA BERHAD. Comparison with industry average can measure that is happen in market value to common stockholders in every each industry. And there are two companies are selected for business performance measurement that is : IJM CORPORATION BERHAD GAMUDA BERHAD BACKGROUND ,INDUSTRY AND BUSINESS TYPE OF THE TWO COMPANY IJM CORPORATION BERHAD IJM is a Corporation Berhad is an a international competitive Malaysian conglomerate with business in construction, properties, industries, plantations and infrastructure systematic industry. Joining of three company enterprising local construction IGB Construction Sdn Bhd was incorporated in 1981, Jurutama Sdn Bhd was incorporated in 1970 as Soon Tat Construction Sdn Bhd and Mudajaya Sdn Bhd incorporated in 1965 as Chye Hin Construction Co Ltd. IJM become grown in reputation and renown internationally in excellent ways of by achieving record by numerous awards. GAMUDA BERHAD Gamuda is a Construction , building and engineering like main project on highways, airport runways, highways, railways, tunnels, water treatment plants and dams, to infrastructure privation and the development of new townships and also it is a property and infrastructure company in Malaysia. The income statements and balance sheets of the two companies information that are required for business performance and it obtain the required information from the related company financial reports via internet . FORMULA Ratio with formula (Profitability of Company) IJM Corporation Berhad Gamuda Berhad Gross Profit markup (%) = ÃÆ'- 100 = 31.16% Gross profit = Sales Cost of the good RM2455143000 RM2032167000 = RM422976000 Cost of the good sales = RM1580125000 + RM363348000 + RM8595000 + RM19973000 + RM19260000 + RM40866000 = RM2032167000 ÃÆ'- 100 = 20.81% Gross profit margin (%) = ÃÆ'- 100 = 23.76% Net sales value = Sales Return inward RM2455143000 0 =RM 2455143000 ÃÆ'- 100 = 17.23% Operating profit margin on sales (%) = ÃÆ'-100 = 18.65% ÃÆ'- 100 = 10.58% Profit margin on sales (%) = ÃÆ'-100 = 8.29% ÃÆ'- 100 = 11.43% Basic earning power(BEP)= ÃÆ'- 100 Total assets = RM6959529000 + RM5598766000 = RM12558295000 = 5.96% Total assets = RM2347737000+RM4203173000 = RM6550910000 ÃÆ'- 100 = 3.97% Return on Total assets= ÃÆ'- 100 Total assets = RM6959529000 + RM5598766000 = RM12558295000 = 2.65% Total assets = RM2347737000+RM4203173000 = RM6550910000 ÃÆ'- 100 = 4.28% Return on common equity= ÃÆ'-100 = 6.48% ÃÆ'- 100 = 8.62% Ratio with Formula (Liquidity of Company) IJM Corporation Berhad Gamuda Berhad Current Ratio= = 2.09:1 = 2.18 : 1 Acid-test ratio= Liquid asset = Current asset -inventory RM5598760000 -RM 529320000 = RM5069446000 = 1.89:1 Liquid asset = Current asset-inventory RM4203173000 RM79738000 = 4123435000 RM4123435000 RM1930241000 = 2.14 : 1 Ratio with Formula ( Assets Management of Company) IJM Corporation Berhad Gamuda Berhad Inventory Turnover = or = 5.78 times = 25.49 times Total Assets Turnover= = 0.32 times = 0.37 times Debtor Ratio= = 0.54 : 1 = 0.65 : 1 Days sales outstanding= 0.54365days = 197.1days 0.65365days = 237.25days Ratio with Formula (Debts management of company) IJM Corporation Berhad Gamuda Berhad Debts ratio= Total Debts = Long time liabilities + current Liabilities = RM3303461000 +RM112250000 = RM3415711000 Total assets = Fix asset + Current asset RM3415711000 + RM2685225000 = RM6100936000 = 0.49 : 1 Total Debts = Long time liabilities + current Liabilities = RM1312946000 + RM1930241000 = RM3243187000 Total assets = Fix asset + Current asset RM2347737000 + RM4203173000 = RM6550910000 = 0.50 : 1 Debts equity ratio= = 1.19 : 1 = 1:1 Times interest earned or Interest cover= = 3.72 times = 5.93 times Ratio with Formula (Market value of investment to stockholder of company) IJM Corporation Berhad Gamuda Berhad Earnings per share= = = RM0.25 = RM0.14 Price earnings ratio= OR = 19.2 times = 22.86 times Earnings yield= = 100 / 75 X RM 0.25 RM0.48 = 6.94% = 5.83% Market price per book value ratio= = = = 1.24 : 1 = = 1.99 : 1 The Ratio Comparison between two companies for business performance measurement under each of the bold headings Profitability of the two companies: Gross profit markup and gross profit margin for the (Gamuda Berhad) is lower than (IJM Corporation Berhad) because the ineffective and inefficient in purchasing from supplier causing higher purchase cost, ineffective use of material and labor causing higher production cost to reduce gross profit earning. For operating profit margin on sales, (Gamuda Berhad) have a lower profit earned by company from the sales made for the ineffective control on expenditures and interest cost, incurring higher operating expenses and higher interest costs to reduce the profit earning but profit margin on sales, (Gamuda Berhad) have higher profit earned by company from the sales that is made for the effective control on its expenditures and interest costs, incurring lower operating expenses and lower interest costs to increase the profit earning than the second company. Liquidity of the two companies: The current ratio is first company is higher than second company because first company has larger amount of current assets can be used to finance its current liabilities and that will indicates the company is financially stable and able to finance its short-term liabilities. For acid-test ratio, first company is also higher than the second company is because that the first company has a larger amount of liquid assets that can be used to finance its current liabilities and the company has high liquidity to finance its short-term liabilities and financially stable. Asset Management of the two companies: The inventory turnover for the first company is higher than the second company because the first company has a fast stock turnover where the goods purchased and kept in the store are fast taken out for resale so that the stock is not accumulated and money is not tied up with the stock. For total assets turnover, the first company is also higher than the second company because first company has a higher sales generated from the assets for the effective use of assets in business activities to increase the production. Other than that, the debtor ratio and DSO, the first company is higher than the second company because the company has given longer credit time to allow debtors owing and causing longer time taken by the company to collect money slowly from debtors so that larger debtor balance is collected to tie up money and bringing it to shortage of money for paying back liabilities and facing short-term financial problem. Debts Management of the two companies: The debts ratio for the first company is higher than the second company because the first company has a heavy debts burden with larger amount of debts and bearing high interest cost. Company with heavy debts burden is risky for not able to finance or not able to pay back its debts or maybe it is being forced to dispose or to sell its assets for paying back the debts. But for debts equity ratio, the first company is lower than the second company because the second company has a light debts burden with smaller amount of debts and bearing low interest. And the times interest earned for the first company is higher than the second company because it has a bearing high interest charges in relation to its available profit. Market value of investment to stockholders: Earnings per share and earnings yield for the first company is lower than the second company, this indicates that the company has lower growth in business profit and resulting lower net income available to each unit share and being less attractive and lower value to the common stockholders. Due to lower earnings per share, stockholders or shareholders have to use more times of profit earning and more times of net cash inflow and longer period to recover back their share investment. This shows the confirmation by the price earnings ratio for the first company is being higher than the second company. Market price per book value for the first company is higher than the second company, this indicates that the company share price has inequitably risen up above its real asset value or book value and being not realistic to stockholders. Conclusion In my conclusion, the first company Gamuda Berhads performance is better than the IJM corporation Berhad, and this indicated (Gamuda Berhad) has better performance, because first company has a higher rate in the 5 aspect of business that measured by accounting ratio. In information problems, the base information is out of date and analysis of accounting information, and they will only identify symptoms but not the causes and this will make the company to have information problems. For inter-firm problems, every companies have to select their industry norms and the usefulness of norms based on the averages and different company have different business and financial problems and the impact on analysis. so in this matter they have theur own way to solve their problems. QUESTION 2 Identify and discuss three different ways for transferring capital or fund from savers to borrowers in the financial market. ANSWER QUESTION 2 INTRODUCTION Financial market means it is a organization and people who be found to borrow money from those having some valuable metals to be exchanged at efficient by market price and also they refer to the stock market, wall street, even markets. In this field there are many different kind of financial market each market use different kind of matted, terms, types of parts of country and customer and the asset banking. By the ending from the any type of this helps them in business grown big and investors make money and give them a lot of profit. At the same time the trading of the stock and bonds that they get in financial market take place direct between buys and sellers and also financial market can be a good relationship by domestic or international business level in communication. There are many various of types in financial market that is physical asset markets to deal with the tangible, real and physical products such as computer, machinery, real estate and other assets the financial market deal with different types of instruments such as stocks or shares, bonds, notes, mortgagees and other claims or real assets with derivative securities whose values derived from changes in the price of other assets. Spot market refer to deals being bought or sold for on the delivery within a few days where future market refers future market deals bought or sold future delivery at some future date such six months or a year in to the future. There are some major financial markets like money markets who deals asset in short term and highly liquid debt securities in borrowing and lending with original maturities in a short periods between less than one year for example it involves like certificate of deposit, federal funds and asset-backed securities. Capital markets is who deals for securities where companies and governments can intermediate or long-term debts in a periods of one year or more than one years and also it include stock market. Montage market is a market who deals with loans on residential, commercial, industrial real estate and farmland and the federal government has confirmed that a major economic role in the mortgage loan market because real estate development is a major sector of the U.S. Economy. Consumer credit market is markets that deals with loans and autos and appliances, as well as loans for education and vacations and provide good services. Primary markets is an market which is corporations raise capital by issuing new securities or new shares like governments or public sector institutions can obtain funding the sale of a new market issue. A secondary market which is the existing and already outstanding securities or financial assets are traded among investors after they have been issued by the corporations and also called as aftermarket where have been issued securities and instruments such are bought and sold. Initial public offering (IOP) market that is firm by offering securities to the public for the first time and often often issued by smaller, younger companies seeking to expand, but can also be done by large private companies looking to become publicly traded. Private market is all about transactions that worked privately and directly between two parties without going to public by independently and also they called breakup value market. There are three different ways of transferring capital or funds from savers to borrowers in financial markets and they are following picture: TRANSFER OF CAPITAL OR FUND BETWEEN SAVERS ( MONEY LENDRE ) AND THOSE WHO NEED CAPITAL OR FUND ( BORROWERS ) 1. Direct transfer from savers to borrowers: When a corporation take place in issues and sells stocks or bonds strata way to saver without giving any financial institution so the corporation as borrower will delivers securities to savers who in turn give money to the corporation and the capital directly transfersed from savers to corporation (borrower). Business Corporation Issue corporations securities to Savers (Borrower) Receive capital or funds from (Money lender) 2. Indirect transfer from savers to borrowers though investment banking house: Investment bank is a unwritten the issues of corporations securities as a middlemen to the facilitate the issues by purchase and then resell the same corporation so that the money paid by savers for purchase. The investment bank receive money merely pass thought banking house. Issue corporations Resell corporations Securities to securities to Business Investment Savers Corporation Banking (money (Borrower) House Lender) Receive fund from Receive fund from 3. Indirect intermediately such as a bank or mutual funds from saver by issuing securities or certificate of deposit to savers. Than it used the fund collected to purchase and hold the securities as investment and the funds transferred from saver intermediary when pay money to financially exchange for receiving certificate of deposit . future than that this fund to other corporation paying money out of fun because they are safer and more liquid them mortgage and loans. Issue Corporations Issue intermediarys Securities to Securities to Business Financial Savers Corporation (Money (borrower) Intermediary Lender) Receive fund from Receive fund from Investment Banking House Can be say that organization that underwrites and distributes the upcoming new issue of latest business corporations securities to assist corporation that is fund for financial. For example, a businessperson who produces shoes may purchase a machine that automatically stitches leather that hopes in the time saved will allow for the production of more shoes and increased sales or another example investment banking house are Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley Dean Witter. Financial Intermediaries There are some specialized in financial firm that transfer of funds from savers to be demanders of capital or event borrower. The financial intermediaries generally huge and they gain in economies of scale in analyzing the creditworthiness of potential borrower, in processing and collecting loans, and in pooling risk and for the helping individual savers to diversity their funds investments. Following are major financial intermediaries Commercial bank is a financial intermediary which collects credit from lenders in the form of deposits and lends in the form of loans holds deposits for individuals and businesses in the form of checking and savings accounts and certificates of deposit of varying maturities while a issues loans in the form of personal and business loans as well as mortgages and also they handled checking accounts and thought which is Federal Reserve System expended or contracted the money supply. They also provides an ever-widening service, stock brokerage service and insurance and they are different from investment bank they lend out money to borrows and investment banks assist business corporation to raise capital or fund from savers. Saving and loan association is a specializes in accepting savings deposits and making mortgage and other loan like collect funds from many small savers and lend out the money to house buyers and other kind of borrowers and it more significant economic function of the saving and loan association to create liquidity in capital markets. Mutual saving funds is a savings that has no stockholders and reinvests all profits in itself and the savings banks are owned their depositors and borrowers because there are no stockholders to please, mutual savings banks are often very conservative with how they invest deposits. Credit unions is a non-profit financial institution that owned and operated entirely by members and also it provide financial services for their members, including savings and lending. In large organizations and companies may organize credit unions for their members and employees, respectively. They are often the chepast source of funds available to individual to borrowers. Pension funds is a retirement plans funded by corporation or government agencies for their workers and administered by trust departments of commercial banks or by life insurance companies. It also a funds invest primarily in bonds, stocks, mortgages and real estate. Life insurance companies is a collect saving that form or annual premiums and invest in stocks, bonds, real estate and montage, finally make payments to the beneficiaries of the insured parties. It also have many kind of tax deferred saving plans to provide benefits to the participants when they retire. Mutual funds collect money from savers and use to buy stocks, long-term bonds and short-term debt instruments that issued by government or business units and thus reduce risk by investment diversification, achieve economies of scale in analyzing securities, managing portfolios, buy and selling securities. They also designed to meet objective in different types of savers and they used as interest bearing checking account such as money market funds.

Containment Policy :: essays papers

Containment Policy America’s Policy of Containment was introduced by George Kennan in 1947. This policy had a few good points but many more bad points.Kennan's depiction of communism as a "malignant parasite" that had to be contained by all possible measures became the basis of the Truman Doctrine, Marshall Plan, and National Security Act in 1947. In his Inaugural Address of January 20, 1949, Truman made four points about his "program for peace and freedom": to support the UN, the European Recovery Program, the collective defence of the North Atlantic, and a â€Å"bold new program† for technical aid to poor nations. Because of his programs, "the future of mankind will be assured in a world of justice, harmony and peace." Containment was not just a policy. It was a way of life. In 1945 the United States saw the Soviet Union as its principal ally. By 1947, it saw the Soviet Union as its principal opponent. The United States misunderstood the Soviet regime. .Despite much pretence, national security had not been a major concern of US planners and elected officials. historical records reveal this clearly. Few serious analysts took issue with George Kennan's position that "it is not Russian military power which is threatening us, it is Russian political power" ; or with President Eisenhower's consistent view that the Russians intended no military conquest of Western Europe and that the major role of NATO was to "convey a feeling of confidence to exposed populations, which was suposed to make them sturdier, politically, in their opposition to Communist inroads." the US dismissed possibilities for peaceful resolution of the Cold War conflict, which would have left the"political threat" intact. In his history of nuclear weapons, McGeorge Bundy writes that he is "aware of no serious contemporary proposal...that ballistic missiles should somehow be banned by agreement before they were ever deployed," even though these were the only potential military threat to the US. It was always the "political" threat of so-called â€Å"Communism" that was the primary concern. Of course, both the US and USSR would have preferred that the other simply disappear. But since this would obviously have involved mutual annihilation, the Cold War was established. According to the conventional Western view, the Cold War was a conflict between two superpowers, caused by Soviet aggression, in which the U.S. tried to contain the Soviet Union and protect the world from it.

Shoeless Joe Essay -- essays research papers

Imagine your fate and future resting in the hands of one man’s judgment. This was actually reality for Shoeless Joe Jackson. Many argue that he was one of the best ever to play the game of baseball and was the greatest natural hitter of all-time. Yet, surprisingly, you will not find him among the familiar faces at the Hall of Fame. He was permanently banned from baseball, as well as seven others, for allegedly helping to throw the 1919 World Series.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Joe Jackson was born on July 16, 1888 in Pickins County, South Carolina. He was the oldest of eight children and grew up the son of a cotton mill worker. He began working in the mill at age thirteen and never learned how to read or write. He played baseball in his spare time, and his exceptional skills landed him in the minor leagues by the age of eighteen. He first entered professional baseball in 1908 with Greenville in the Carolina Association. It was during this same year that he received the nickname â€Å"Shoeless† Joe after he had just bought a new pair of spikes. They wore blisters on his feet and they hurt so badly that he just played in his stocking feet. Although he played only one game without the spikes, he was known as â€Å"Shoeless Joe† from then on (McGee 1).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Shoeless Joe made his major league debut later that year, in 1908, with the Philadelphia Athletics. He only played there a short time before being transferred to the Cleveland Indians. Finally, in 1915 he was sold to Charles Comiskey and the Chicago White Sox. It was here that he played his last few years of professional baseball and his life would be forever changed.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  From the years 1917 to 1919 the Chicago White Sox were by far the dominant team in baseball. It is speculated that they could have â€Å"gone on to become one of the greatest teams in history† (Schwalbe 2). However, despite having the most talented team around, Charles Comiskey paid his players considerably less than any other winning team (Durst 2). Due to the oppression they were under, the player’s morale began to decrease as their need for money increased. They considered going on strike, but were talked out of it by their manager, â€Å"Kid† Gleason. They remained desperate until first baseman Chick Gandil met with a notorious gambler named â€Å"Sport† Sullivan. The White So... ...t up and protect his own reputation. Comiskey’s lawyer acted as Joe’s lawyer also, although he was really only trying to protect Comiskey. In modern day, Joe would have had his own lawyer from the beginning and Landis would have been convicted of contempt of court since he went against the court’s ruling and banished the eight players for life. Joe would not have had to prove his innocence. Instead, someone would have had to prove him guilty. Clearly, this could not have been achieved. There is no evidence that he did anything wrong, and his statistics clearly support the opposite. Alongside, his performance in the 1919 World Series, Joe’s career batting average of .356 is the third best of all-time (CMG 1). On top of this, he led the league in triples eight times and held the throwing record for distance. It is a shame he was never inducted into the Hall of Fame because of one man’s judgment to ban him from the game. Part of Joe’s last words were â€Å"I’m going to meet the greatest umpire of all – and he knows I’m innocent.† (McCroskey 1). He passed away on Decem ber 5, 1951, and will remain, although often disparaged and misunderstood, one of our national pastime’s greatest legends.