The Focal Point - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 3 Words: 813 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2019/08/06 Category Economics Essay Level High school Tags: Macroeconomics Essay Did you like this example? The focal point of this paper is on a new product for Nike, Inc. The item being propelled is a claim to fame item concentrating on catching the developing game of rugby. The product offering will begin with new rugby boots and include a whole line committed to the game. This paper will plot the rugby business and the open doors present for a specialty business line committed to the game. The paper centers on adjusting Nikes development procedure to a game that is developing quickly in America. This connection and arrangement between the two makes for an incredible item dispatch. Notwithstanding the history, every part of the item dispatch will be considered including market fragments, execution, showcase instruments, financial matters, macroeconomic factors, for example, joblessness, swelling, and the business cycle. In the wake of evaluating every one of these classes, the all-encompassing objective is to decide the best strategy for executing this arrangement. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "The Focal Point" essay for you Create order As a worldwide pioneer in the game clothing industry, each choice, item dispatch, and change stands out as truly newsworthy. The Organization has a reputation of progress for more than four Decades. So as to comprehend what the subsequent stages are for the organization we should initially look in reverse and perceive how the organization turned into the pioneer it did today. The organization was begun in 1963 by Phil Knight who was a previous track star from Beaverton, Oregon. Before the organization was called Nike, it was called Blue Lace Sports and sold Japanese running shoes called tigers (Knight, 2016). The organization was roused by Phils longing to run and his capacity to tune in to his characteristic inspiration in life when things got intense. Nike was brought into the world following 10 years of difficulty and venturing to every part of the globe, perceiving how extraordinary societies cooperate and fusing social contrasts into each part of the business was a critical differentiator for Nike. The name originates from the Greeks, from Athena, the goddess of triumph. This thought turned into the organizations core value even before it was a domain. What genuinely makes the account of Nike remarkable is the preliminaries and difficulties that Phil Knight and his collected gathering experienced to make every part of building the organization, the shoe, and the brand. The narrative of Nike isnt one to overlook, in truth it is one to celebrate and gain from always. This urgent name joined by the notable swoosh logo has achieved status that appeared to be unattainable before all else. For the following two decades, Nike hustled and experienced a few attempting times until the point when the organization turned into an easily recognized name in the athletic business, genuine shoe hounds. Nike needs to be the pioneer in the space with a progressive specialty item propelling first in America. Rugby is a game that has been around since the 1800s. The diversion started in Britain in the mid 1800s (Trueman, 2017). Rugby is a worldwide game be that as it may, it is most well known in Australia, New Zealand, Italy, France, the UK, Ireland, South Africa, and Argentina. These areas hold the most astounding number of intrigue and the fan base is settled. The game has been increasing more footing in America since the presentation of the Rugby Sevens in the 2016 Olympics (Morely and Morris, 2017). Intrigue supposedly is developing with grown-up players as they change from American football to rugby in their 20s. The game is by all accounts giving the individuals who needed to play football and couldnt play soccer a chance to take in another amusement and enter the universe of rugby. Contingent upon the area, Rugby clubs can be making 150 Million while rugby associations have developed to net 407 Million in incomes for the 2015/16 season, a noteworthy increment from 6.7 million in the 2013/14 season (Kitson, 2016). With the developing enthusiasm fanning out to one of the worlds biggest wearing economies, this is an ideal chance to construct a line and turn out to be first to advertise as an American rugby authority. Utilizing a specialty product offering will tidy up the fragment that was killed with Nike Golf. Golf had achieved the stopping point with its fame and presenting a portion where an ever increasing number of individuals are getting engaged with the game of rugby in America is an approach to compensate for lost incomes and contend as a high class rival in another brandishing field. It is a fantastic chance to make up any lost incomes because of the decline in golf cooperation and the expulsion of a whole business portion. This sort of venture has empowered Nike to construct new associations with customers they might not have been incorporating into their past deals. With the uptick is rugby intrigue and the ability to grow past the center games, this give Nike the focused edge to have an audio cue in the rugby business.

Fourth Amendment Search And Seizure - 963 Words

Fourth Amendment: Search and Seizure The Fourth Amendment: Search and Seizure was passed by Congress on September 25, 1789 and ratified December 15, 1791. The Fourth Amendment provides, [t]he right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. Initially the Fourth Amendment was intended to create a statutory buffer between the U.S. citizens and the intimidating power of law enforcement. Today, the general concept and critical goal of the Fourth Amendment is†¦show more content†¦Schools: A warrant is not needed for school officials to search a student who is under their authority. New Jersey v. TLO, 469 U.S. 325 (1985). Vehicles: A search warrant is not needed: †¢ When an officer has probable cause to believe that a vehicle contains evidence of a criminal activity. Arizona v. Gant, 129 S. Ct. 1710 (2009). †¢ To conduct a traffic stop when there is reasonable suspicion that a traffic violation has occurred or that criminal activity is occurring. Berekmer v. McCarty, 468 U.S. 420 (1984); United States v. Arizona, 534 U.S. 266 (2002). †¢ To pat-down a driver or passenger of the vehicle. Arizona v. Johnson, 555 U.S. 323 (2009). †¢ To use a narcotics detection dog to walk around the exterior of a car subject to a valid traffic stop. Illinois v. Cabales, 543 U.S. 405 (2005). †¢ To justify a highway stop without any individualized suspicion by special law enforcement. Illinois v. Lidster, 540 U.S. 419 (2004). †¢ To conduct routine stops and searches at an international border. United States v. Montoya de Hernandez, 473 U.S. 531 (1985). †¢ To conduct sobriety checkpoints for the purpose of combating drunk driving. Michigan Dept. of State Police v. Sitz, 496 U.S. 444 (1990). †¢ To set up highway checkpoints to seek voluntary cooperation in the investigation of a recent crime that has occurred on that highway. Illinois v. Lidster, 540 U.S. 419 (2004). However, a state may not use a highway checkpoint program whose primary purpose is the discovery andShow MoreRelatedFourth Amendment Search and Seizure1010 Words   |  5 PagesFifth Amendment states that we have the right against self incrimination. The Fourth Amendment protects us from unreasonable search or seizure. People have the right to confront witnesses and accusers. Nothing can change these rights unless the U.S. constitutions were to be rewritten and that is not likely to happen. In this paper we will be examining the Fourth Amendment, learning the requirements for obtaining a search warrant, defining probable cause, describing when search and seizure does notRead MoreThe Fourth Amendment : A Search And Seizure Reasonable?2135 Words   |  9 PagesWhen is a search and seizure reasonable? J ohn Vile clearly explains the origination of the Fourth Amendment and why it was created at the time of the creation of the Constitution,  ¨Like the amendment that precedes it, the Fourth Amendment was largely motivated by abuses of the British when they ruled America. They had used general warrants, or so-called writs of assistance, in tracking down customs violations in the colonies. A number of states subsequently adopted provisions against such warrantsRead MoreAssignment Sub Heading : Fourth Amendment Right On Search And Seizure877 Words   |  4 PagesAssignment sub-heading: Fourth Amendment Right to search and seizure TITLE AND CITATION: Arizona v. Johnson, 555 U.S. 323 (2209) TYPE OF ACTION: This is a criminal case, did officers Trevizo violate the Fourth Amendment s protection against unreasonable searches and seizures during a routine traffic stop for suspended registration. Johnson was search even after he comply with officer Trevizo’s command. The Arizona Supreme Court denied review. We granted certiorari, and now reverse the judgmentRead MoreSearch and Seizure The purpose for the Fourth Amendment is to protect people from intrusion of the600 Words   |  3 PagesSearch and Seizure The purpose for the Fourth Amendment is to protect people from intrusion of the government in areas where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. It prohibits searches and seizures unless they are conducted with probable cause and under reasonable circumstances. â€Å"The Fourth Amendment only protects against searches and seizures conducted by the government or pursuant to governmental direction. Surveillance and investigatory actions taken by strictly private persons, suchRead MoreThe Fourth Amendment Protects Citizens From Unreasonable Search And Seizure Of Property1435 Words   |  6 PagesThe Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable search and seizure of property. This ensures that the government cannot take a private citizen’s property without their consent, a warrant or probable cause. The Fifth Amendment protects private property in two ways. The first, it ensures that a person cannot be deprived of private property without due process of law. This means that if the government is to seize private property they must compensate the owner for the property being seizedRead MoreThe Fourth Amendment And The Fourteenth Amendment987 Words   |  4 PagesCitizens are protected by two constitutional amendments, under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, any search of a person or his premises (including a vehicle), and any seizure of tangible evidence, must be reasonable. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularlyRead MoreThe Poisonous Tree1065 Words   |  5 PagesReasonableness Introduction Most of us have seen things that officers or other Law agency have done to other individual and have stated that it was either an unreasonable search and seizure of items that was found on or in the individuals’ car, house, etc., but why would they consider it unreasonable? This usually ends up being a problem for individuals who do not understand the law or how it applies to certain situations. This learner will address the definition of what unreasonable means, whichRead MoreImagine You Are On A Family Road Trip You Drive Through1403 Words   |  6 PagesEither the officer wants to search your vehicle or arrest you. Is the question this legal or illegal for the officer to do? I believe that search and seizure are ethical because it protects citizens from an unlawful entry and provides protection for law enforcement in case a person is dangerous or to provide evidence to use in a criminal case in court. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated,Read MoreExclusionary Rule : The Rule889 Words   |  4 PagesThe exclusionary rule protects the rights of the people under the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments, and requires evidence obtained directly or indirectly as a result of government violations cannot be used as proof of guilt in a court of law [1] The U. S. Const. amend. IV, states that the rights of the people are to be secure in their homes and person, papers and effects, shall not be violated by unreasonable search and seizure, and no warrants shall be issued unless it is supported by probableRead MoreShould The Police Search The House Without A Warrant?1503 Words   |  7 Pageshallucinations. The police arrive at the house where the party is at due multiple calls about drugs and minors. They want to search the house and take a look around but you know there are drugs here and alcohol plus minors. Would it be okay if the police search the house without a warrant? Is this legal or illegal in this situation? I believe that under viable circumstances search and seizure is ethical because it protects citizens from an unlawful entry and provides protection for law enforcement in case

Memo Accounting Department Free Essays

Per your memo dated February 12th regarding the company smoking ban I have instituted a mediation committee in the Accounting Department consisting of Joe Jones, Jane Doe and Herbert Hoover. However, since the new policy went into effect last Monday, the committee has received numerous complaints of non-compliance in the men’s rest room on our floor that they are unable to effectively address. The Accounting Department’s Mediation Committee has had no effect in enforcing the new smoking ban; in fact many of the other employees are making comments to the effect that the committee is overstepping its bounds by attempting to control the problem in the rest room. We will write a custom essay sample on Memo Accounting Department or any similar topic only for you Order Now Similar article: Teambuilding Memo Examples There are nine smokers of the 27 male staff members on our floor. Those who are complying with the new policy now must step outside for a smoke break and much time is being lost while they are away from their desks. They are dissatisfied by the lack of shelter when it is raining or snowing outside and this is leading to a loss of morale in the smoking staff members. As well, the smokers tend to congregate immediately outside the main entrance to the building and this is unacceptable for our clients and visitors to witness. There appears to be no easy solution to this problem. My Mediation Committee is quite frustrated by their lack of authority to solve the issues being presented to them. There may need to be an addendum to the smoking ban which addresses acceptable policy during the staff’s normal work shift. I would be happy to set up a convenient time for you to visit with the mediation committee, the floor staff and myself before the end of this week in my department. Perhaps together we can all come up with a suitable solution – please advise me of your availability. I appreciate your help with this matter. How to cite Memo Accounting Department, Essay examples

What is Abortion Persuasive Essay Example For Students

What is Abortion? Persuasive Essay April 29, 2004Abortion is called a choice. If this is true, women should know what they are choosing. According to Webster, an abortion is a procedure, either surgical or medical, to end a pregnancy by removing the fetus or placenta from the uterus. Abortion is one of the most controversial and important subjects of this generation. One in four of our generation is not living because they were killed before they were born. Since abortion was legalized in 1973, approximately 1,500,000 babies have been aborted each year. One out of every six women in this country have had abortions. A lot of times, they were not told about the procedure or the risks involved. Many of them were most likely not told about the development of the unborn baby inside of them. Pregnancy from rape is extremely rare. A study of one thousand rape victims who were treated after the rape reported no pregnancies. There are no known studies of incest cases. Medically, we know pregnancy in these cases would be rare. As reasons for legalizing abortion rape and incest are nothing more than emotional screens used by those profiting from abortion. However, we have to approach the victim of rape or incest with compassion. The woman has been subjected to an ugly traum a, and she needs love, support and help. But she has been the victim of one violent act. Should we now ask her to be a party to a second violent act that of abortion? Many would return the violence of killing an innocent baby for the violence of rape. But, before making this decision, remember that most of the trauma has already occurred. She has been raped. That trauma will live with her all her life. However, what about the child with a disease who will die a slow death or live his life as a burden to his family? Do you believe that the new ethic should be that we kill the suffering or burdensome? Some of these cases are tragic some are also inspirational. We cannot assume the responsibility for killing an unborn child simply because the child has not yet been seen in public. The childs place of residence does not change what abortion does kill a human being. There are two floors in a hospital; one aborts 5-month-old fetuses, and the other struggles to save preemies. Is it just me, or is there something wrong here? There are parents struggling to save their babies, and there are parents not giving a second thought about ending their babys life. Sometimes I wonder if women even know how abortions are preformed. There are many different ways doctors perform an abortion. One of the many ways is with forceps; the doctor turns the baby around in the womb to be positioned feet first. The babys legs are pulled out into the birth canal. The baby is still alive at this point. The abortionist delivers the babys entire body, except for the head, which remains inside the birth canal. The babys hands and feet move. The abortionist stabs the scissors into the base of the babys skull. The scissors are spread to enlarge the opening. The suction catheter I then inserted and the brains are sucked out, causing the skull to collapse. The head slides out easi ly. When this type of procedure first became known to the public, it was only done a few hundred times a year. This gruesome method of killing partially born babies is now done many thousand times a year. These babies are inches from being born. Many could be born and placed in loving arms of childless couples for adoption. But instead, they are killed. Some people call it abortion. No matter what you call it, you cannot alter the reality, four more inches out of the womb and this act would be called murder. Just imagine the pain that an 8-month-old unborn baby, able to live outside the mothers womb, must feel during this procedure. .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 , .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .postImageUrl , .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 , .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:hover , .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:visited , .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:active { border:0!important; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:active , .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413 .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uffa688befe81a9c497085c3b73ee9413:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: I Remeber Mama EssayWhen you cut through the words, you much face the horrible reality. Babies are being scalded, poisoned, cut, and torn apart. They are no different than a newborn, just younger. Many could live if they were outside the womb. They all go through the terrible pain before they die. Is this a womans choice or is it Child Abuse and/or Murder with a different name. Which is better to remember, I gave my baby life. And because I loved him, I gave him into the arms of a loving couple or to remember, I selfishly ended my babys life?

The Odyssey Study Guide Flashcard

The Odyssey Study Guide

Essay Sample on the Dichotomy of Estrogen

Essay Sample on the Dichotomy of Estrogen Hormone replacement therapy has attracted a lot of attention over the past few years. A combination of progestin and estrogen therapy was  believed to reduce dementia and stroke, and other risks associated with aging such as heart attacks.   A 2002 report on preliminary outcomes from the Women’s Health Initiative changed this  belief (Fletcher and Colditz). This report included data from 16,000 post-menopausal women collected at various sites throughout the US.   The authors concluded that hormone combination therapy increased the risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, and blood clots and had numerous ramifications in the medical community.   Estrogen therapy alone continued to be studied, but was also found to carry significant risks to health including increased risk of dementia and  stroke (Anderson et al.).   The biological   mechanisms behind these finding are still unclear, however there is some evidence that estrogen has varying effects across the lifespa n in females. Estrogen can be neuroprotective in the brain by reducing the size of infarct and neuronal death after stroke in animal models (Jover et al.; Rau et al.).   This is generally studied in healthy, young animals and not aged animals; which may partially account for the discrepancies between findings in animals and humans.   It is unknown if the neuroprotective effects of estrogen are mediated through cells in the brain, such as microglia, or immune cells in the periphery, such as leukocytes. A recent report(Johnson and Sohrabji) sought to determine if   estrogen dampens inflammation by reducing the immune response in peripheral immune cells and/or brain derived cells (microglia) from young and old female rats. The authors used two groups of rats: young adult females (four months) and reproductively senescent females (13-16 months). Ovaries were removed and replaced with pellets secreting estradiol resulting in physiological levels of circulating estrogen. Microglia from the brain and blood cells were removed and cultured separately in the lab to asses the effects of immune stimulation in each cell population. Immune activation was induced through administration of Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and the amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines (immune signaling molecules) were measured. Johnson Sohrabji found that estrogen could not attenuate the immune response in microglia in either age group.   However, estrogen could attenuate the peripheral immune response in young females, but increased cytokine production from peripheral immune cells in aged females. The authors also report that this effect is only found after chronic pretreatment, and mention unpublished results suggesting that acute estrogen treatment after inflammation has no effect. What does this mean in terms of hormone replacement therapy? These findings suggest that estrogen is neuroprotective in young females, and that estrogen restrains neural inflammation through suppression of circulating immune cells in the periphery. In humans, immune cells from post-menopausal women secrete higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines than pre-menopausal women (Schurman et al.). These results suggest that when estrogens are given to older women, they are likely to increase pro-inflammatory cytokines, which could potentially increase neurodegenerative events in the brain. A separate report has shown that cognitive impairment in the elderly are associated with higher amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines (Yaffe et al.).   In summary, it is clear that estrogen replacement therapy has benefits in young females, but these same benefits may not occur in aged females. This is a sample Biology essay written from scratch by one of our academic writers. If you want to order a custom essay, term paper, research paper, thesis/dissertation on any topic contact our company to get professional academic writing help.

Project management risk management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Project management risk management - Essay Example Risk can be defined as the possibility of loss. Risk arises due to the inability to achieve objectives within defined cost, schedule and technical constraints. Risk has two components, one the possibility of not achieving a particular outcome, and the second is the result of failure to achieve the outcome. The former is the probability of risk and the later is the loss. Risk management is a set of action that help the managers plan to deal with uncertain occurrences. It is through risk management managers assess risk and manage to reduce it to an acceptable level. The key idea in risk management is not to wait passively for a risk to materialize and become a problem. The objective of risk management is to ensure that for each perceived risk we know well in advance how to tackle it. The process of risk management begins during the analysis phase and the actual process of managing risks continues throughout. Risk management is a dynamic process because it deals with the activities that are yet to happen. Risk management has two fold agenda. First deciding actions for preventing risk from happening and second deciding actions for tackling risk that materialize. Therefore risk management is all about preempting a risk, coming up with a plan for resolving the risk and finally executing the plan. Risk identification: In this step manager gathers information about the potential risks in the project. The project manager plans the strategies for avoiding risks or controlling them. They discuss availability of technology, manpower, prevailing environment and the project related factors. The manager picks up the thread from these and creates a risk log. After risk log is prepared, the project manager calls a meeting within the team and technical experts to discuss the risk log and the mitigation plans. One of the effective ways of identifying risks is using a questionnaire to list out risks. Risk analysis: It consists of three steps i.e. Risk probability, Risk impact and Risk factor. After identifying the risks the manager needs to analyze the risks. Uncertainty and loss are the two characteristics of risk. The uncertainty factor in risk means that the unknown event may or may not happen. While analyzing risk manager needs to quantify the level of uncertainty and the degree of loss. Based on this, manger plans schedules and costs. During analysis, information on risk is converted into information on decision-making. There are various tasks involved in risk analysis; initially the task in risk analysis phase is to describe the risk. The risk can be product related, process related, organization related, client related or infrastructure related, secondly the manager quantifies the probability of occurrence of risk and thirdly the risks are rated depending on their probability of occurrence. Based on the probability of risk the manager identifies the impact of risk on cost, schedule, and quantity, which needs to be calculated and graded. Each risk is prioritized relative to other risks. The manager can prioritize risks based on the probability and impact of risks. High impact risks with moderate to high probability will catch the attention first. Risk Mitigation: Risk mitigation is the best possible approach adopted by the manager to avoid risks from occurring. The probability of

The World of Word Processing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The World of Word Processing - Essay Example The word processor for several years featured a monochrome display and the ability to save documents on diskettes or otherwise. The later models had innovations like grammar checking, formatting options, and the dot matrix printing (Ward, 2005). This Microsoft word is the most widely used processing software with over one billion users across the globe. Other commonly used word processing applications are the word perfect that dominated in the years of the mid 1980s and early 1990s, the Microsoft MS-DOS, and the open source application. The current word processor is very power and consists of images, graphics, and the text latter handled with typesetting capability. The term word processing, invented in the late 1960s by IBM, got recognition by the by the New York Times as a buzzword in 1971. The international Business Machines provided a program that would generate printed documents on a mainframe computer and described it as a word processor. The new software combined peoples, proc edures, and applications that would transform idea into printed communications. The original Microsoft word contained a dictating machine and a manually operated S electric typewriter. The term word processor was taken to mean a semi automated typewriters with some form of electronic editing and correction ability (Gordon, 2010). Most of the persons working in the United States as secretaries utilized the word processing and it had impact on their careers. By this time, the word processing replaced the traditional secretary and emphasized more on the administrative roles of the businesses and industry. The invention of the word processor occurred in two phases. There was first the standard operating system control program that vastly brought increased standardization in the 1970s. The format for all the files and memory had similar structure across all the machines of that class. To change the type meant stopping the printer and a manual change of printing element (Castro, 2003). Th e additional memory made bi-directional printing possible hence eliminated delay caused by the return of print head to the left of the margin possible at the start of every program. The second phase was the introduction of the Microsoft disk operating system to replace the control program Microsoft (Word processor is a facility that records keystrokes from the keyboard and prints the same onto a paper in a separate operation system. It is used in the production of any sort of printable material (Ward, 2005). The word processor encompasses a stand-alone machine that combined the keyboard text-entry and printing function with a dedicated processor for the editing of texts. The features and the designs varied between the manufacturers but new features added advanced the technology. The word processor for several years featured a monochrome display and the ability to save documents on diskettes or otherwise. The later models had innovations like grammar checking, formatting options, and the dot matrix printing. This Microsoft word is the most widely used processing software with over one billion users across the globe. Other commonly used word processing applications are the word perfect that dominated in the years of the mid 1980s and early 1990s, the Microsoft MS-DOS, and the open source application. The current word processor is very power and consists of images, graphics, and the text latter handled with typesetting capability (CP/M computers). The IBM for its microcomputers first chose this system though it

Honeybees Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Honeybees - Essay Example Large farms even hire beekeepers to increase the number of bees that will make pollination faster. Another importance of honeybees is that they produce wax which are used in candle and polish making. These facts are not new discovery though. In old walls and caves, pictures of bees were found painted believed to be done thousand years ago (USDOA). Amusingly, while honeybees play important roles in agriculture industry of the United States, they were brought to United States by European colonizers during the early days and not really native of the country. Honey bee is a highly adaptable insect that can live to a wide range of climate and geographic location. It is indigenous and able to adjust to a wide variety of climes and geographic regions. The natural territory of honeybees is the area of Southern Africa to somewhere in Southern Scandinavia, and from continental Europe to West Asia(USDOA). It is the southwestern part of United States and northern Mexico where honeybees are most likely abundant and of different variety. Carl Hayden from Bee Research Center in Tucson, Arizona said that are about 1000 to 1200 species of bees within a one hundred mile radius of Tucson. However, it was found out that neither one is native honeybee. Identified are around 25,000 species of bees and almost 40,000 are in waiting to be listed down. Placing them to specific genus takes time for the entomologists. Unluckily, out of 25,000, 8 to 10 species believed to be honey bees. This number is still growing though because there are lot of identified species already (USDOA). Interestingly, honey bees are classified by strain and not through genus and species. If we say strain, it means place of origin. Most common strains of honey bees currently found in the United States are the Apis mellifera ligustica, the Italian bees, and the Apis mellifera carnica, the Carniolan bees. But science learns to discover on how to interbreed. This practice is brought about by the need to produce more honey and enhance pollination. One considered as most famous attempt at creating such a hybridized line was the crossing of the European lines and the African lines (USDOA). Mating the unassuming but high honey producing European bees to the aggressive African counterparts is the goal of crossing the lines of African and European. It was in 1956 when the test was done by Brazilian researchers hoping that a more hardworking bee will be the result. However they did not succeed. Test result showed that the aggressive traits dominated and in essence veiled the characteristics of the European bees. The conducted test became popular when a worker in the laboratory where the bees were located accidentally removed the screens which kept the queens in their hives (USDOA). Accordingly, around 26 group of the Africanized bees flew. Ever since, the descendants have been moving northward. After 40 years later, African honey bees are found in the southwestern United States. This is causing concerns due to their aggressive nature and capacity to replace the well-known colonies of productive European lines (USDOA). There is a caste system among colonies of bees. The queen ranks at the top of the caste which primary duties are to populate the colony by mating with male honey bees. Directing activities to the workers is another duty of the queen. The queen

Reasons For The Economic Instability In The 1930s Politics Essay

Reasons For The Economic Instability In The 1930s Politics Essay Abstract: This paper examines the reasons for the instability in the world economy in 1930s. First, the main causes are listed and given brief overview of the explanations. The most detailed attention is paid to the Hegemonic Stability Theory, as I believe it provides one of the most comprehensive answers for all the issues of the specified period. I also directly quoted the vision of R.Keynes regarding some of those issues. In conclusion I tried to draw up a parallel with the current realities and point out main lessons from the history and their reflections of the events of 1930s. The reason why I chose this essay title is the fact that most of the issues of the specified period are not just still relevant, but they also directly reflect current realities. As the old Kazakh proverb says: Tamyry zhoktyn erteni bolmas (Those who have no rootes [do not treat heritage], have no future). Therefore, it is vital to study the origins of the world crisis of 1930s, as it is often referred to as one of the worst turmoil in the modern world history for its spread, length, and depth. The recent protracted crisis is often compared to it lately. As any river has lots of springs to start from, the instability of world economy of 1930s started from many fragmented issues and events. The most commonly accepted causes are: the end of the Pax Britannica epoch, the World War I and its consequences, the lack of hegemony from US, the collapse of the gold standard, the chaotic international economic relations in the Interwar period, crash of the liberal approach in economy, the switch to intensified technological advancement in production and etc. The list of the causes can go on and on, due to the variety of visions and approaches to the issue. There are as much explanations and theories as much causes as listed above and even more. In my opinion, the Theory of Hegemonic Stability (main theorists: C.Kindleberg, R.Gilpin, and S.Krasner) gives the most comprehensive answer for all the issues of the specified period. Under this theory the world order is secured in terms of stability only under a dominant rule of one leading state. Kindleberg directly states that the main reason of the interwar crisis was the lack of will from United States to replace the Great Britain as the hegemonic power. (Kindleberg, 1973). As it is directly stated in the core books on IPE, throughout the whole nineteenth century Great Britain possessed economic hegemony over the most of the world. According to Kindleberg, not until 1931 was it clear that Britain could not provide the leadership. (1973) Great Britains supremacy leadership was closely associated the openness of international trade and capital movements, with the beginning of globalization of the markets, the rise of first multinational corporations, and the general economic and political stability of that period. World War I resulted in the end of British hegemony and most of the conditions that it had promoted. Soon there was an increase of the protectionism all across the world and further uprise of regional blocs. Foundations of the global economy were eroded by the decline in capital mobility, which finally resulted in the growing economic instability and the depression. So, the overall situation was not so positive for the new hegemon. The cause of this tragic chain of events has often been laid at Americas doorstep. The United States was, at the end of World War I, the worlds strongest economic power. But it steadfastly refused to take on the leadership role that Britain could no longer play. This irresponsibility was most vividly exemplified in the minds of many people by the infamous Smoot-Hawley Tariff (1930), which raised the average tax on imports to the United States by about 40 percent. At the beginning of the depression, the United States shut its markets to foreign goods and thus helped propel the world economy into its worst swoon ever. The unwillingness of the United States to coordinate its monetary and currency policies with other countries merely exacerbated the situation. This isolationist posture on the part of the worlds economic hegemon had negative consequences for most other countries and the United States itself. (H.Milner, 1998) As stated above the chaotic economic relations that arose in that period contributed significantly to the destabilization of the world economy. As states Kerry A.Chase, international relations theorists attribute the collapse of the world economy into protectionism and rival trading blocs to global causes such as hegemonic decline, problems of collective action and free riding, or the macroeconomic disturbance of the Great Depression (Kerry A. Chase 2004). We find that the different currency blocs of the 1930s had very different implications for trade. Sterling area countries traded disproportionately among themselves and with the rest of the world. Gold bloc members, in contrast, did not trade disproportionately with one another or with the rest of the world, reflecting their indiscriminate use of tariffs and quotas to prop up increasingly overvalued currencies, which neutralized any stimulus derived from exchange rate stability. Countries applying exchange controls, despite stabilizing their exchange rates, traded less with one another than their economic characteristics would predict, due to the trade-inhibiting effects of those policies.(Kerry A. Chase 2004). Also, within the Interwar period happened a crash of former liberal approaches in economy. The economy proved to be incapable to regulate itself under a new circumstances and it finally led to government intervention and creation of new economic model under the theories of R.Keynes, or so called Keynesian revolution. He was among first researchers that stressed on principal difference of new order and incapability of prompt readjustment to it. As he stated in his Economic Possibilities for our Grandchildren (1930): We are suffering from the growing-pains of over-rapid changes, from the painfulness of readjustment between one economic period and another. The increase of technical efficiency has been taking place faster than we can deal with the problem of labour absorption; the improvement in the standard of life has been a little too quick; the banking and monetary system of the world has been preventing the rate of interest from falling as fast as equilibrium requires. (R.Keynes, 1 930).   The war debts and associated issues are also constantly mentioned in the literature. Yes, there were winners and there were losers. The contradictious reparation payment system resulted in strive for jusice, which further pre-set conditions for escalating into World War II. But were war debts really affecting the economy within the specified period? At the conclusion of World War I, war- related debts were about $12 billion, an amount greater than total U.S. private long-term foreign assets, and equivalent to perhaps 15% of U.S. national income. Every major western country owed some- thing to someone, but on net most of the war debts were owed to the United States by France, Great Britain and Italy; these four countries in turn, were to receive most of the payments by Germany on the reparations account. The largest single net creditor was the United States. The largest single net debtor was Germany. The heated and lengthy economic debate about war-related debts, conducted in the context of passionate moral and political disputes, produced two distinct strains of thought: one was the well-known discussion of transfer; the other, less adequately incorporated into the literature, held that the war-related debts critically disrupted the international financial system, possibly started the depression, and probably aggravated it. No simple, direct line can be drawn, however, from war-related debts to world economic activity: payments on war- related debt were made in the 1920s with no obvious adverse effect on economic activity; payments were cancelled in the 1930s with no obvious beneficial effect on economic activity. Accordingly, most accounts of the world depression center on elements other than war-related debts (H.Fleising), The failure of the gold standard was also one of the reasons for the world crisis of 1930s. Why? Natalia Chernyshoffa, states that gold had emerged as the dominant monetary regime of its time and as a robust nominal anchor. She goes further and states: The claim was made that it helped to promote international trade and investment, and the data now back it up. Small wonder, then, that after the violent disruptions of World War One the world anchored again to gold in the 1920s. Unfortunately, despite its past record for stability, the reconstituted gold standard failed; it is now generally thought to have exacerbated volatility and contributed substantially to the Great Depression (N.Chernysheva, 2009). In conclusion I would like to draw a parallel to nowadays. For the past ten years there were constant prophecies regarding the so-long expected decline of US hegemony and glorious emergence of China as a new world leader. Recent crisis made those claims sound louder, because China is the only country that maintained comparative stability and gradually started turning into the largest creditor. It actively acquires assets worldwide (mostly energy sources, but interested in finance investment as well), plays more dominant role in regional and more active role in international organizations. With some discrepancies, but nevertheless, we might see the New China just as the world saw New US at the beginning of XIX century. There are also non-stop debates regarding the final emergence of unified Europe, which might overshadow the current US and proposed Chinese dominance. And there is a smart combination of all propositions proclaiming the New Order by the triangular US-Europe-China dominance. The same way, back in 1970s there were precautions regarding the rapid rise of Arab OPEC-states backed up by rapid growth of oil prices. As there were precautions regarding the Japan, backed up by its miraculous economic achievements in 1980s. Now the whole fuss is about whether it be China or Europe that would step into US left vacuum So, the history teaches us a good lesson: that time passes and all of those propositions regarding the New Ruler of the World either prove in reality or die in dust on the book shelves. Another lesson that was learned well from the history is: that none of the Empires of the Past had repeated their successful fate twice. So, if US would decline sooner or later, and its place gets occupied by the New Hegemon, it is doubtful that US would rise again like Phoenix. And the final and the most relevant to this essay lessons are: a) that the throne never stays vacant for long b) the period between two rulers (hegemons) is characterised by instability, anarchy and chaos (the worst curse in Chinese is: I damn you, may you live in chaotic period) Therefore, I would conclude that it was natural for US to step forward and replace Great Britain as soon as it was no longer acting as a hegemon in world affairs. But, not willing to bear the full burden of the obligations of the new ruler US did not act like a real hegemon. It did not use all of its available muscles to stabilize the situation neither in Europe nor in other parts of the world, and in fact, it was not really interested in it. Therefore I would say that the bad hegemon is worse than no hegemon at all. At the end, going back to our days, I would say that regardless of who is going to be a lead nation in future or would US somehow recover soon, it is crucial for my country (Kazakhstan) and for the rest of the world to maintain positive political and economic relations with all of the candidates for the Hegemones throne as good as with the existing leader US (proverb The old lion can still roar is still actual). Hegemons rise and fall, crisis come and leave, but life goes on and we have to be flexible under any circumstances Economic Possibilities for our Grandchildren Source: Scanned from John Maynard Keynes, Essays in Persuasion, New York: W. W. Norton Co., 1963, pp. 358-373.   http://www.marxists.org/reference/subject/economics/keynes/1930/our-grandchildren.htm War-Related Debts and the Great Depression Author(s): Heywood Fleisig Source: The American Economic Review, Vol. 66, No. 2, Papers and Proceedings of the Eighty-eighth Annual Meeting of the American Economic Association (May, 1976), pp. 52-58 Published by: American Economic Association Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/181719 International Political Economy: Beyond Hegemonic Stability Author(s): Helen V. Milner Source: Foreign Policy, No. 110, Special Edition: Frontiers of Knowledge (Spring, 1998), pp. 112-123 Published by: Washingtonpost.Newsweek Interactive, LLC Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/1149280 Accessed: 16/11/2009 03:12 (Natalia Chernyshoff a, David S. Jacks b,c, Alan M. Taylor, Stuck on gold: Real exchange rate volatility and the rise and fall of the gold standard, 1875-1939, Journal of International Economics 77 (2009) 195-205)

Dave Speaks to the World :: Dave Barry Essays

Dave Speaks to the World When I was back home and lived with my mom, we were reading the paper together one day, she was reading the Tropic and I, the comics. When she was through with the Dave Barry column, she gasped and said out loud, "I know that shark!" Now, of course this startled me and I wondered what on earth she meant. Mom explained that the article was about a hammerhead shark, famous to Miamians and Florida Keys residents, playfully named "Big Moe". She continued to tell me that when she was about nine she went lobstering under Bahiahonda Bridge in the Keys with her dad. While lifting an old sunken car hood to retrieve the bugs, she saw a shadow pass over her. She stopped abruptly and dropped the hood to swim back to the boat. On her way back, if I remember the story correctly, the huge hammerhead passed directly over her head. This time it wasn't just the shadow she saw. Sitting in our living room at home my mom was insisting that the shark Dave Barry wrote about just HAD to be the same one . I thought this was pretty cool. Ever since then I've known who Dave Barry is. He speaks in mysterious ways. Dave Barry is a humor columnist; his fans express what can only be explained as hero worship. After doing some light research I learned that not only is he a writer for the Miami Herald, but also for many newspapers throughout the United States. It was also brought to my attention that he has won a Pulitzer Prize for his articles and he is, or was, the lead guitarist in a rock band called the Rock Bottom Remainders. It's been said that they weren't the greatest musicians and they are no longer playing. To quote my Internet source, Dave is "an all-around nice guy who tries to protect his readers from the dangers of the world around them . . ." The text goes on to say that these dangers are exploding cows and trout falling from the sky. I suppose we would have to be devout Dave fans to really understand that. Something else I recently learned about Dave Barry is that there is a show based on his personality.

Psychology Reflective Paper Essay

This class has not only enabled me to become a better student, but also a more productive adult in various ways. Initially, I came into your class ecstatic because I knew the journey I would embark would be an exciting one; however, I encountered challenges throughout the course although learning new psychological methods is enthusing to me. I learned about the origin of psychology and the evolution of modern psychology. In further detail, I will discuss how the learning goals of this course have influenced my career and personal life. When I began college, I was undecided about what to study. Initially, I enrolled as Biology major. I majored in biology for three years of my college career. Because I was not happy or even satisfied, I decided to pursue studying a subject that genuinely grasped my interest. I knew in my heart that whatever I was searching for had to be something I would love doing for the rest of my life or at least most of it. Therefore, I went on an exploration to find that one particular area of study that would be of great significance to me and my future endeavors. I came across Psychology. I didn’t know much about it. All I knew was that I took it during my freshman year because it was a requirement to take Psychology 101. The entire time while I was reminiscing about this class, all I could remember was the professor lecturing about the human mind and why people do what they do. I found it to be sort of interesting and I said, â€Å"Hey, why not give it a try?† Previously, I had skeptic views. I contemplated about making this big change because I thought there was nothing else left for me to do but to†¦ â€Å"Just do it!† Because I am new to everything that is going on around me within my Psychology courses, there is plenty that I wish to obtain and learn: not just from my professors but also from my peers. One class that I have taken is History and Systems of Psychology, and it is one of my most interesting Psychology courses here at the University. This course is very different from many classes that I have taken. There are seminars, blogs, essays, Greeks, and much more that surround this course. The seminars consist of in class discussions where we converse about different readings and how we feel about what was read, as well as what the writer was trying to convey to his or her audience. Sometimes the discussions can become intense but it is stimulating. I am not much of a public speaker, but the seminars are beneficial to me conquering my phobia of speaking in front of a crowd of people. The course is informative but surprisingly it isn’t boring. I perceive as motivation to do well through the learning goals that are set out before us by the professor. Contrary, to my previous study of Psychology, I have learned a vast amount of information from being in this course. Yes, History and Systems of Psychology will inform and teach me about the ancient Greeks and their attributes towards the development of Psychology but I will also learn skills that will definitely be beneficial in my career as a Speech Pathologist. A Speech Pathologist evaluates and diagnosis speech, language, cognitive- communication and swallowing disorders. They also treat speech, language, cognitive- communication and swallowing disorders in individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. The class is not only lecturing, but also growth for future purposes. My fellow classmates and I will be able to network with one another on a more intellectual level. We are all able to discuss our opinions about different topics through seminars. This is a way to help better our communication and listening skills. Patience is gained when waiting for others to speak, even though you may be eager to express your views on a particular situation. It helps us to be more open-minded to others’ opinions which provide us with the opportunity to learn from one another and just the professor. Because it is proven that the focus of psychological studies in modern society may not reflect its colorful and amusing history, its roots however fluctuate from the modern philosophies of the field. In order to totally comprehend psychology, one must first go back into its history and explore its origins. A question that I asked myself and became informed of throughout the course of this semester is: â€Å"How did the studies of Psychology originate? What period was Psychology created?† Because I was able to question myself, I became more involved and interesting not only in Psychology 445, but the overall studies of Psychology. As I answered these questions, I realized that Psychology involves a massive range of topics; alongside, examining the human’s developmental patterns and mental practices from cultural level to neural level. Interestingly, I learned that Speech Pathologists study the same materials as Psychologists. For example, both patricians must know matters pertaining to human mental concerns. These issues can begin right from delivery and endure up until the death of the person. Through the knowledge developed in Psychology 445, I will be able to better comprehend how the individual topics are studied and what has been taught thus far. One of my most beloved and studied psychologist has been Sigmund Freud (Freud). Independently, I studied Freud; the famous Austrian physician transformed the entire face of psychology in such an intense way by creating a theory of personality that strained on the significance of the unconscious mind. Freud’s involvement with clients anguish from mental ailments like hysteria directed him to consider that one’s early childhood encounters as well as our unconscious impulses contribute greatly towards the development of our adult lifestyle behavior and characteristics. You may ask yourself: â€Å"Why is this information important to?† As stated in our learning goals there are many historical psychologists who can give an account for the evolution of modern psychology. It is important for me to understand the history and previous studies because past determinations will enable me to diagnose my clients when I work as a speech pathologist. There are commonalties between psychologist and speech pathologist. Because of these similarities, I have encountered psychological skills that I plan to utilize as a speech pathologist. Interestingly, Psychology continues to evolve! Currently, majority practices do not identify themselves with a distinct school of thought. Instead, workers prefer focusing on certain specialty ranges or perspectives, often creating conclusions from a wide range of theoretical experiences. This methodology has contributed new theories and ideas that still carry on to shape the future of psychology. In conclusion, I learned quality listening and observance skills. In order for me to be a good Speech Pathologist, I must be able to listen and communicate with the patients. I must be patient, stable, tolerant of others, confident, and the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Surprisingly, in class being emotionally stable really is a great trait to have and learn. Because everyone does not have identical in personalities and background life experiences, everyone may not think alike. In most cases, when there is a discussion and there are many different thoughts and opinions being tossed in the air, some individuals tend to become a little upset because they may feel that what they believe is correct. However, when engaging in conversation with others who may have different point of views, there is no right or wrong. Therefore, having emotional stability is important. I believe that this change which I have made is for the best. I feel that with every moment I attend class, I am discovering something new and opening myself up to bigger and brighter opportunities.

Dispute Resolution Coursework The WritePass Journal

Dispute Resolution Coursework 1.0 Introduction Dispute Resolution Coursework 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Concurrent Delay3.0 Causes of a Concurrent Delay4.0 Approaches to Concurrent Delays4.1 Apportionment Approach4.2 The ‘but for’ Approach4.3 First in Line Approach4.4 Dominant Approach4.5 Malmaison Approach5.0 Analyse of City Inn v Shepherd Construction Ltd 5.1 Lord Drummond Young’s Decision5.2 The Appeal Decision6.0 ReferencesRelated 1.0 Introduction This report will discuss the different approaches to concurrent delays in construction contracts by reviewing various construction cases where disputed have arisen. I will also analyse the findings in the recent Court of Session case of City Inn v Shepherd Construction (2010) and assess the extent to which an appeal against the decision to the Supreme Court may succeed. 2.0 Concurrent Delay A â€Å"concurrent delay† is a term used loosely by the construction industry without any real definition. It is not uncommon for more than one delay to occur on a construction project at any given time which delays the completion of the works. A concurrent delay usually occurs when actions by the client and contractor simultaneously delay the project. However there is no clear guidance on the most suitable method for considering an extension of time when there is a concurrent delay usually involving the contractor and employer. (Cushman et al, 2001). Judge Seymour in the case of Royal Brompton Hospital NHS Trust v Frederick A Hammond Ors1 describes a concurrent delay as, â€Å"Two or more delay events occurring within the same time period, each independently affecting the Completion Date.† He goes on to say; â€Å"It is, I think necessary to be clear what one means by events operating concurrently. It does not mean, in my judgement, a situation in which, work already being delayed, let it be supposed, because the contractor has had difficulty in obtaining sufficient labour, an event occurs which is a Relevant Event and which, had the contractor not been delayed would have caused him to be delayed, but which in fact, by reason of the existing delay, made no difference. In such a situation although there is a Relevant Event, the completion of the Works is not likely to be delayed thereby beyond the Completion Date.† (www.charlesrussell.co.uk, February 2011). From Judge Seymour’s statement a concurrent delay can therefore be defined as two events that happen at the same time. 3.0 Causes of a Concurrent Delay A delay can vary due to the different consequences for example an excusable delay is the fault of the employer such as late issuing of drawings which entitles the contractor to an extension of time and an inexcusable delay is due to the fault of the contractor. A neutral event may occur as a result of unforeseen ground conditions or adverse weather conditions. There a number of different scenarios that arise where delays are considered to be concurrent. They are as follows: A delay that is caused by both employer and contractor. A neutral event and contractors delay. A neutral event and employers delay. A neutral event where the contractor is entitled to more time and a financial payment. An employer’s delay where the contractor is entitled to more time and a financial payment. A contractor’s delay where the employer is entitled to a financial payment. (www.theqsi.co.uk, February 2011) 4.0 Approaches to Concurrent Delays There are a number of approaches when considering an extension of time with some having more success than others. They are as follows; Apportionment approach ‘but for’ approach First in Line approach Dominant approach Malmaison approach 4.1 Apportionment Approach The apportionment approach is where the total cost of the delay is distributed between the parties responsible for that delay. Although this is a logical approach it is not supported in the courts as when it comes to a breach of contract they usually look to relate any loss to a single cause. (www.alway-associates.co.uk, March 2011). If a dominant cause cannot be identified the courts say, â€Å"It may be possible to apportion the loss between the causes for which the employer is responsible and other causes. In such a case, it is obviously necessary that the event or events for which the employer is responsible should be a material cause of the loss. Provided that the condition is met, the apportionment of loss between the different causes is possible in an appropriate case.† (www.cila.co.uk, March 2011). One of the most controversial cases that adopted the apportionment approach is City Inn v Shepherd Construction Ltd. As the causes of the delay were the fault of both the employer and contractor the contractor was entitled to an extension of time. Lord Drummond said, â€Å"where there is time concurrency between a relevant event and contractor default, in the sense that both existed simultaneously, regardless of which started first, it may be appropriate to apportion responsibility for the delay between the two causes; obviously, however, the basis for such must be fair and reasonable.† (www.clarkslegal.com, March 2011). It was the contract administrator’s duty to award Shepherd construction an extension of time on a â€Å"fair and reasonable† basis. (Smith, 2010). However shepherd construction did not deem this to be sufficient and wanted a significantly longer extension of time as well as payment of loss and expense. As there was no dominant event causing the d elay the court apportioned the delay between the causes. (Smith, 2010). In case of John Barker Construction Ltd v London Portman Hotel Ltd [2004] Lord Young indicated the most appropriate approach would be to apportion the cost of the delay between the employer and contractor he states, â€Å"This is a case where delay has been caused by a number of different causes, most of which were the responsibility of the employer, through the architect, but two of which were the responsibility of the contractor. It is accordingly necessary to apportion the defenders prolongation costs between these two categories of cause. I consider that the same general consideration, the causative significance of each of the sources of delay and the degree of culpability in respect of each of those sources, must be balanced.† (www.dac.co.uk, March 2011). Another case that applied the apportionment approach is the case of Musselburgh and Fisherrow Co-operative Society Ltd v Mowlem (Scotland) Ltd (2005). This case involved a number of defects to a swimming pool. The court decided to apportion the costs of defect s which included changing channels and gratings and the replacing of the waterproof membrane. (www.scotcourts.gov.uk, February 2011). For the apportionment approach to apply the causes contributing to the loss must start and finish at the same period which is highly unlikely. It also depends on the court’s understanding of the particulars and the use of complex ideas. Keating (2000) encourages the use of apportionment he states, â€Å"Where the loss or damage suffered by the plaintiff results partly from his own conduct and partly form the defendants breach of contract it is correct in principle for the damages to be apportioned.† (Keating et al, 2000). 4.2 The ‘but for’ Approach This approach has not had great success and is reflected in the fact no cases can be found to support this approach. However despite its low success rate it is favoured by contractors as they tend to adopt this approach in reply to the first in line argument even though it is usually rejected by the courts. The contractor’s argument is based on the circumstance that a delay to a particular event would not have happened ‘but for’ an architect’s instruction requesting additional work to be carried out. (www.charlesrussell.co.uk, February 2011). Basically the contractor believes the additional work the reason a delay has occurred. This is supported by Fletcher (1998) who states that the ‘but for’ approach exonerates the contractor but only when, â€Å"events for which the contractor is not responsible compound delay already caused by the contractor.† (Fletcher, 1998). 4.3 First in Line Approach This approach adopts the logic that if a delay has arisen due to a number of events the event that occurred first will be responsible for the whole delay. This means any other contributing events to the delay will be overlooked so long as the completion date is not affected and it does not carry on after the first event. (www.rics.org, March 2011). For example it is the responsibility of the employer to give the contractor access to the site on the day the works are due to commence i.e. 29 January. However if access is not provided a delay occurs commencing on the 29 January and if severe weather prevents work from starting on the 7 February the first in line approach will apply therefore the delay in access will take priority over severe weather until access is provided. If the contractor gains access to the site on the 16 February but the severe weather conditions persists until the 21 February then an extension time can be granted with regards to the severe weather. (www.rics.org, March 2011). 4.4 Dominant Approach The dominant approach analyses the causes of a delay and decides which event is the most dominant or predominant. (www.charlesrussell.co.uk, February 2011). Keating (2000) defines a dominant event as, â€Å"If there are two causes, one the contractual responsibility of the defendant and the other the contractual responsibility of the plaintiff the plaintiff succeeds if he establishes that the cause for which the defendant is responsible is the effective dominant case. Which cause is dominant is a question of fact, which is not solved by the mere point of order in time but is to be decided by applying common sense standards.† (Keating, 2000). An important case in Scotland that adopted the dominant approach is case of John Doyle Construction Ltd v Laing Management (Scotland) Ltd (2004). John Doyle claimed for loss and expense of  £4.8 million and a twenty two week extension of time as they believed Laing Management had disrupted and delayed the progress of the works. Laing Management contended that as John Doyle claim was global and therefore it could not succeed so long as any one of the claims where proven not to have been caused by them. (www.cila.co.uk, March 2011). However Lord McFayden who was involved in the case stated, â€Å"The global claim may fail, but there may be in the evidence a sufficient basis to find casual connections between individual losses and individual events, or to global claims and the problems of concurrent cases arise time and again in relation to delay and loss and expense claims.† (Ross, 2004). Lord McFayden allowed the claim to proceed however Laing appealed his decision to the Court of Session. At the Court of Session Lord Drummond young agreed with Lord McFayden he said, â€Å"if any events or events for which the employer is responsible can be described as the dominant cause of an item of loss, that will be sufficient to establish liability, notwithstanding that other events played a part in its occurrence.† (Ross, 2004). Therefore if the contractor can prove the events for which he depends on are the duty of the employer then he will be required to, â€Å"prove casual links between individual events and particular heads of loss.† (www.cila.co.uk, March 2011).   Where loss has occurred through events the employer is responsible for and through events that he is not, the court states that the contractor must prove the events that the employer is accountable for are the â€Å"proximate or dominant cause of loss† In order for the claim to succeed. However there are problems associated with the dominant approach especially when there are events that contribute equally to the cause of the delay. Therefore the grounds for recuperating loss and expense could be unfair to one party. For example as a dominant cause apportions responsibility to one party which therefore gives the bases for recovery of loss and expense by the other party. However this gives the claiming party the right to recover cost for the entire delay even though the causes contributing to the delay may not be sufficient enough for grounds of recovery. (www.alway-associates.co.uk, March 2011). In the case of H. Fairweather Co. Ltd v. London Borough of Wandworth (1988) the dominant approach was rejected by the court due to the problems discussed previously. (www.alway-associates.co.uk, March 2011). During the construction of the works, consisting of 480 homes, the project was delayed due the late issue of variations and strikes by the workforce. When the case went to arbitration it ruled in favour of the architect and suggested that the strikes had been the dominant cause. However the contractor appealed the decision to the courts who overruled. The judge stated, â€Å"On the assumption that condition 23 is not solely concerned with liquidated or ascertained damages but also triggers and conditions a right for a contractor to recover direct loss and expense where applicable under condition 24 then an architect and his turn an arbitrator has the task of allocating where the facts require it the extension of time to the various heads. I do not consider that the dominant tes t is correct.† (www.brewerconsulting.co.uk, March 2011). 4.5 Malmaison Approach This approach was established in the case of Henry Boot Construction (UK) Ltd v Malmaison Hotel (Manchester) Ltd (1999). It came about not because the dispute was resolved but by both parties agreeing to resolve elements of the dispute which the court then approved. (www.alway-associates.co.uk, March 2011).   This was the first instance the court acknowledged that an extension of time should not be refused when a delay caused by the contractor is concurrent with a delay caused by the employer. During the case concurrent delays were discussed in detail but the main focus was on how delays caused by both the contractor and employer should be interpreted.   Judge Dyson said, â€Å"It is agreed that if there are two concurrent causes of delay, one of which is a relevant event, and the other is not, then the contractor is entitled to an extension of time for the period of delay caused by the relevant delay notwithstanding the concurrent effect of the other event,† (www.alway-associates.co.uk, March 2011). Judge Dyson went on to explain this in simpler terms he said, â€Å"For example if no work is possible on a site for a week not only because of exceptionally inclement weather (a relevant event) but also because the contractor has a shortage of labour (not a relevant event) and if the failure to work during that week is likely to delay the works beyond the completion date by one week, then if he considers it fair and reasonable to do so, the architect is required to grant an extension of time of one week. He cannot refuse to do so on the grounds that the delay would have occurred in any event by reason of the shortage of labour.† (www.alway-associates.co.uk, March 2011). This approach entitles the contractor to an extension of time when they are responsible for the delay at the same time the employer is also causing the delay. This is due to the contractors delay occurring at the same time as a neutral event i.e. inclement weather. In the more recent case of Steria Limited v Sigma Wireless Communications Limited (2007) the Malmaison apporoach was adopted. A dispute occurred between both parties as Sigma did not pay the final contract price owed to Steria. Sigma argued that completion of the works were delayed due to events caused by Steria and therefore where entitled to claim loss and expense. Judge Davies considered whether or not Steria should have been entitled to an extension of time. The judge ruled that Steria should have been granted an extension of time as the delay was not predominantly caused by them and because the matter relied upon was not the dominant cause although it did have equivalent contributing influence with other events relating to the delay. (www.pinsentmasons.com, March 2011). 5.0 Analyse of City Inn v Shepherd Construction Ltd In 1997 City Inn appointed Shepherd construction to construct a hotel in Bristol under a JCT form of contract. The initial completion date of January 26, 1999 was extended by the architect but only by two weeks. The project was not completed until the 29 March 1999 therefore incurring a nine week delay. The same day the architect issued a two week extension of time he also issued a non-completion certificate and stated the contractor had failed to complete the works by the extended completion date therefore allowing City Inn to deduct liquidated damages. (www.jonesday, March 2011). The dispute arose as Shepherd construction claimed they were entitled to eleven weeks extension of time as a result of the architect issuing instructions late and also demanded damages for loss and expense at  £11,500 per week.   City Inn argued that as the works were completed late they were entitled to liquidated damages of  £30,000 per week for nine weeks therefore proceeded to withhold  £270,000 of damages. (www.cila.co.uk, March 2011). In summary the concurrent causes of delay claimed by both parties are as follows; Employer- Defective work and late completion Contractor – Architects Instructions and variations issued late The dispute went to adjudication where the adjudicator ruled in favour of the Shepherd construction. The adjudicator awarded Shepherd construction a nine week extension of time and instructed City Inn to repay the monies owed to the Shepherd construction. However City Inn did not agree with the adjudicator’s decision and appealed to the Scottish Court of Session. The case went to court before Lord Drummond Young.    5.1 Lord Drummond Young’s Decision The experts of both parties agreed that a critical path analysis could not be carried out as there was no accurate programme establishing how the contractor intended on carrying out the works. Lord Drummond Young therefore had to judge what impact the actions of City Inn and Shepherd construction had on the overall delay of the whole project. (www.cila.co.uk, March 2011). Lord Drummond Young concluded that all the delays identified by City Inn and Shepherd construction were concurrent causes of delay.   Therefore under clause 25 of the contract Lord Drummond Young was required to make a judgement and reach a â€Å"fair and reasonable† decision on an extension of time. (www.pinsentsmasons.org, March 2011).   Due to the absence of a dominant cause Lord drumming Young adopted a â€Å"common sense† approach and apportioned the delay between the relevant event and other events to reach a fair and reasonable outcome.   (www.cila.co.uk, March 2011). Lord Drummond Young stated the adjudicator was correct to award Shepherd Construction a nine week extension of time. However City Inn where not happy with his decision and decided to appeal his ruling to the Supreme Court. 5.2 The Appeal Decision The appeal launched by City Inn was rejected by all three judges however they did not all fully support Lord Drummond Young’s ruling on awarding an extension of time. Lord Osborne delivered the bulk of the judgment with Lord Kingarth agreeing with his assessment. Lord Osborne set five propositions for the proper approach to be taken when granting an extension of time: Before a claim for an extension of time can succeed a relevant event must be proven to have caused a delay and as a result the works will be delayed. When considering whether or not a relevant event has caused a delay a common sense approach must be taken. A critical path analysis will help the decision maker determine the cause of the delay however it is not relied upon for the claim to succeed. If a dominant cause of delay can be identified then effect will be given to that delay by leaving out of account any cause of or causes that are not material. The claim will fail if the relevant event is not a dominant cause. If there is no dominant cause the contractors claim should not automatically fail. The decision maker should, â€Å"approach the issue in a fair and reasonable way, to apportion the delay in completion of the works between the relevant event and the other event.† (www.pinsentsmasons.org, March 2011). Although Lord Carloway agreed with the result of the case however he rejected the Lord Drummond Young’s apportionment approach. Lord Carloways stated it was the architect’s responsibility to judge whether or not a delay was the result of a relevant event. Therefore the contractor should be granted an extension of time so long as he can prove the cause of the delay is a relevant event. 5.3 Likelihood of an Appeal Succeeding I believe an appeal by City Inn to the Supreme Court would be unsuccessful. From the two cases already put before the courts all four judges have agreed that the decision to award the contractor an extension of time was the correct one after considering the arguments of both parties. The judges put great emphasis on adopting a common sense approach when considering an extension of time in order to make a fair and reasonable decision.   Concurrent causes of delay arose as no dominant cause of delay could be identified and therefore apportionment approach was adopted which had strong support from all the appeal judges. If an appeal was made to the Supreme Court I believe the judge would reject City Inns appeal as it is clear to see a common sense approach has been adopted to achieve a fair result between City Inn and Shepherd Construction. 6.0 References Literature Cushman, R., Carter, J., Gorman, P. And Coppi, D., (2001). Construction Disputes: Representing the Contractor Fletcher A. (1998) Key issues in Time Extension claims, Building and Construction Law Keating D., Ramsey, V., Furst S. (2000) Keating on Building Contracts Ross J., (2004) Knowledge Is Power: The Freedom of Information Act comes into Force Smith H., (2010) Construction Dispute Avoidance; Herbert Smith, Newsletter no.18 Websites alway-associates.co.uk/legal-update/article.asp?id=24 Accessed 03/03/11 brewerconsulting.co.uk/cases/RPC_CES4.htm Accessed 01/03/11 cila.co.uk/files/Construction/Kennedys/Concurrency%20Talk.pdf Accessed 04/03/11 charlesrussell.co.uk/UserFiles/file/pdf/Construction%20%20Engineering/BB_sept_2010/concurrent_delay.pdf Accessed 26/02/11 clarkslegal.com/Article/533/Counting+the+cost+of+lost+time+-+apportioning+concurrent+delay+in+EOT+claims Accessed 13/03/11 dac.co.uk/documents/resources/articles/Delaying_tactics_Property_Law_Journal Accessed 13/03/11 jonesday.com/extensions-of-time-concurrent-delays-and-causation-city-inn-v-shepherd-judicial-guidance-from-the-uk-courts-at-long-last-05-14-2008/ Accessed 16/03/11 pinsentmasons.com/PDF/SteriavStigma0408.pdf Accessed 17/03/11 www.pinsentsmasons.org/PDF/CityInnLtd.pdf Accessed 18/03/11 rics.org/site/download_feed.aspx?fileID=3400fileExtension=PDF Accessed 05/03/11 scl.org.uk/node/533 Accessed 26/02/11 scotcourts.gov.uk/opinions/2006hcjac27.html Accessed 29/02/11 www.theqsi.co.uk/cpdmod/concurrent%20delays%202.doc Accessed 28/02/11 tonybingham.co.uk/column/articlepick.php Accessed 07/03/11

Pan the Goat-Footed Greek God

Pan the Goat-Footed Greek God Pan- or Faunus in Roman mythology- is the noisy goat-footed god of the Greeks. He looks after shepherds and woods, is a capable musician, and invented the instrument named after him- panpipes. He leads the nymphs in dances and stirs up panic. He is worshiped in Arcadia and is associated with sexuality. Pan's Family of Origin Pan was born in Arcadia. There are various versions of the birth of Pan. In one, his parents are Zeus and Hybris. In another, the most common version, his father is Hermes; his mother, a nymph. In another version of his birth, Pans parents are Penelope, wife of Odysseus and her mate, Hermes or, possibly, Apollo. In the bucolic Greek poet of the third century B.C. Theocritus, Odysseus is his father. Attributes of Pan The attributes or symbols associated with Pan are woods, pastures, and the syrinx- a flute. He is depicted with goats feet and two horns and wearing a lynx-pelt. In the Pan painters vase, a goat-headed and tailed young Pan pursues a youth. Pan's Death In Plutarchs Moralia, he reports a rumor about the death of Pan, who as a god, couldnt die, at least in principle. Sources Ancient sources for Pan include Apollodorus, Cicero, Euripides, Herodotus, Hyginus, Nonnius, Ovid, Pausanias, Pindar, Plato, Statius, and Theocritus. Timothy Gantz Early Greek Myths itemizes many details about the Pan traditions.

Innovation in Vodafon Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Innovation in Vodafon - Case Study Example Hendricks & Singhal (1997. pp432-435) conducted a research in relationship between timing of new product introductions and market value of firms to discover that all firms that are late in introducing new products to the market lose market value. These theories indicate the importance of innovations for organization to remain competitive in the markets & the overall industry. As presented by Brown and Kozinets et al (2003. pp30-33), just carrying forward the heritage of the brand will not ensure its survival - old brand need to keep on learning new tricks of survival. In this essay, the author presents a brief introduction of innovations of Vodafone whereby the history, innovation characteristics and most innovative service of Vodafone have been covered in brief. In the end, the author has presented they perspective of his contribution to the innovations of Vodafone. Vodafone has slightly more than two decades of history and hence is relatively younger compared to many competitive firms in the telecommunications industry. It started in 1988 as a 100% owned subsidiary of Racal Electronics Plc and was operating in the name of Racal Telecom Plc which first time got listed in 1988 offering 20% of the overall capital to the public. Racal Telecom Plc became independent of Racal Electronics Plc in 1991 and was renamed as Vodafone Group Plc after the de-merging. As on today, the Vodafone Plc executive board is chaired by Sir John Bond and the Group CEO is Vittorio Colao who has taken charge from Arun Sarin very recently after the latter's retirement. Vodafone operates in 20 countries directly or through franchises that are Albania, Australia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Spain, Turkey and the UK. In every country, the local operations are led by the country CEO who acts as the business in-charge of Vodafone in the country. All the country CEOs collectively report to the group CEO. (http://www.vodafone.com/start/about_vodafone/who_we_are.html) Vodafone Group Plc is one of the largest global mobile communications company having the vision to achieve the number one position in this industry. The vision statement of Vodafone states that "Our goal is to be the communications leader in an increasingly connected world". The "Cute Dog" advertisement with the "Happy to Help" message at the end itself is an innovation. Currently, this advertisement is getting close to hearts of the Indians with many variants of it floating in the local markets (http://www.resourcesforlife.com/docs/item1413). Vodafone has largely focussed on the global wireless communications market unlike their nearest global counterparts AT&T Inc. & British Telecom Plc. that are engaged more in wired telecommunications markets across the world. In the statement by the Group Chairman, Sir John Bond, it is emphasized that Vodafone is actively looking at mobile communicat

Week 2 workshop Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Week 2 workshop - Assignment Example The graph is now positively skewed from mean as shown in the diagram below: The appropriate measures of central tendency for skewed distribution are either mean or median. Median is a more appropriate measure for highly skewed distributions. The skewness of the graph that we have plotted is not very high. Hence the best measure of central tendency is the mean. The average salary of the corporate customers is now $345,455. Gender is an example of nominal data. It can take either of the two values: Male or Female. Mode which is the value which has the highest frequency in the given data set is the best measure of central tendency in this case (QuickMBA, 2010). The mode of the distribution will tell us whether the data has more males or more females which is an appropriate measure for central tendency. The three key different measures of central tendency are Mean, Median and Mode. All the three are not the best measures for all types of distribution. They have different values for differently skewed distributions. For a symmetrical distribution, all the three measures converge on the same value. Mean is the most sensitive measure to skewness (Levin and Rubin, 2009). In case the distribution contains outlier values which impact the skewness of the distribution positively or negatively, the mean moves from being the highest (positively skewed distribution) to being the lowest (negatively skewed distribution). In any distribution, median is always in the middle of mean and mode. Median is the least sensitive measure for skewed distributions. Standard deviation and variance are both the measures of dispersion. Standard deviation is the square root of variance. Variance is the average value of the squared difference of the each value and the mean. Since variance is calculated after squaring, all the differences take positive value. Moreover, larger differences get more weight and are more suitable in cases where there are more outliers. Standard

Euthanasia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 7

Euthanasia - Essay Example Voluntary euthanasia occurs when the patient requests to be killed while non-voluntary euthanasia occurs when the killed patient did not consent to the killing. Assisted suicide can also be classified as euthanasia when an individual provides information and guides the patient in committing suicide. Euthanasia by action occurs when individual actions like providing lethal injection leads to the patient’s death while Euthanasia by omission occurs when the care giver withholds important care such as provision of food, water and medication thus leading to the death of the patient (Tulloch, 1999 p 34). However, for an act or omission to qualify as euthanasia, the said act or omission should be intended to cause death to the terminally ill patient. The issue of euthanasia has attracted intensive debate with proponents asserting that euthanasia should be legalized since it eliminates patient’s sufferings. The opponents of euthanasia assert that euthanasia is a rejection of the value of human life (Tulloch, 1999 p 35). Proponents of euthanasia assert that allowing people to die with dignity and avoiding the terminal illness is good in eliminating human suffering. The Beneficence argument for euthanasia claims that terminally ill patients should be prevented from dying painfully and slowly by allowing euthanasia (Buse, 2008 p 7). Continued extraordinary care will stress the immediate loved ones since it just prolongs the death of the terminally ill patient. They assert that many terminally illness patients should have the right to choose when to die and avoid the terminal suffering. According to the argument of mercy, allowing the terminally ill patients to continue suffering is inhumane and cruel. The life of terminally ill patients should be ended through lethal injection in order to avoid suffering and pain associated with the extraordinary medication (Buse, 2008 p 8). Proponents also assert

Pilinut Essay Example for Free

Pilinut Essay Our company engages into pilinut business. Pili tart is a very profitable product, it has the so called 3C’s of Bicol pili nut: Competitive (market); Capability (financial); and Capacity (production) (Melchor A Aguilar). Because the Philippines is the only country where the fruit has market. No other country process pili in commercial quantity, meaning, we have the monopoly of processed pili in the foreign market, this kind of business has a very high potential of being successful especially if it will engage in exporting. There are many producers and processors of pili tart in the Bicol region, but this will be very few compared to the world market. Only few of these processors are into exporting business. Pili are very nutritious even as confection. Nutritionally, the kernel is high in calcium, phosphorous, and potassium, and rich in fats and protein. (DOST), so there is no issue to health concious. Our products will be of superior quality associated with the right price so that almost every body can afford it. We will produce product using ingredients of high quality so that it is guaranteed to be tasty and delicious. We will provide products that are not health and environmental hazard but instead a pilinut product that everyone can enjoy and environmental friendly that undergo in the right procedure. We will produce different pilinut products that are best for export, which does not easily spoil, and remain fresh even on long period of time. Pilinut for ordinary people may not be so important, but for a business person like us, pilinut has a long way to go and has a very large market to serve. Profit from this business may be abundant due to the monopoly of the products. We can start at a small capital but the comeback will be great. In not more than three years, we will regain our investment from this business and still continue to grow.

Causes of State Failure in Sub-Saharan Africa

Causes of State Failure in Sub-Saharan Africa Abstract This project sets out to examine the causes of the failure of the state in sub-Saharan Africa. Since the introduction of democracy in the sub-continent in the early 1990’s, the process has been a slow and cumbersome, casting doubts on the possibility of instituting genuine democracy on the sub-continent. The political crisis gave room for autocrats who were the fomenters of the problem to eternalize themselves in power in the name of avoiding further conflicts or problems. They have advanced a whole range of different problems as the cause of this crisis where as the problem lies in the absence of a democratic culture or the proper understanding of it. In the words of the great Africanist, the late Professor Ake Claude, the sub-continents problems is but one of leadership crisis. As this dawns on us at a moment when democratic regimes are a necessity in the new global context, how do we solve the problems which have stalled the institution this much cherished democracy? The answer the thesis states lies in the institutionalization of democracy. Introduction The quest for good governments in Africa has been a high priority item on the agenda of African and world politicians for well over half a century. The African continent for several decades now has been replete with ills such as low living standards, a stagnant economy, and high rates of unemployment, poverty, low infrastructural development, a violent political environment, dictatorships, ethnic clashes and above all a general disregard of the fundamental rights of the people. It still grapples with these political uncertainties, economic adversities, and social inequalities today (Chazan, 1999). There is thus a need to device the best means possible by which the state can be organized and empowered so that it deals adequately with these problems. Democracy’s ability to organize society, ensuring the respect of the rights and liberties of the people, pressing for accountable leadership, ensuring effective participation, a transparent economy and a just and equitable social order, in essence ensuring the socio-economic and political prosperity of a nation, which in summary are Africa’s biggest problems, makes it the best possible solution to the problems Africa faces today. As a result, the quest for democracy in Africa has been seen as vital if Africa has to set up a harmonized community that will develop and catch up with the demands of the ever globalizing world. The story of instituting democracy in Sub-Saharan Africa has been a long drawn one, with many highs and lows; several events have made it seem very probable and promising, but also there have been on the other hand other very challenging events which have questioned the possibility of democracy’s survival. As a result, several debates have ensued amongst Africanist, who have focused on a large part on the prospects of democracy on the continent, some arguing that it is doomed to fail and other optimist who believe that a genuine democratic system can and will emerge in sub-Saharan Africa. Their focus therefore have been how democracy can be properly instituted, its challenges and how the inherent problems it faces can be adequately resolved so that Africa will benefit from good governance schemes. There have been several events starting with the legalization of political parties and the return to multiparty elections in the late 1980’s which suggested that democracy was well under way on the continent. But as it was being instituted it faced several challenges which resorted to disorderliness throwing back the move to democracy; new forms of electoral authoritarianism, return to military and in some extreme cases gruesome civil wars broke out on the sub-continent. This has left many critics of African democracy to question the possibility of instituting genuine democracy on the continent, despite it being the choice of the people. Apologist of African democracy have since argued that Africa’s political crisis were as a result of an imposition of a western culture or style of administration which is not compatible with the African society. They consider democracy alien and in violation to the African culture (Ake, 1991). This according to them has been the reason for the failure of democracy. They rather support the one party dictatorial style governance, which they claim is the best means by which the continent can unite to develop (Busia, 1961). Another school of thought which emerged after the transition period, the modernist, advanced reasons for the failure of democracy in Africa, blaming the superficial nature of the state, and its failure to penetrate the African society adequately, calling the state a weak leviathan (Chabal Daloz, 1999). This same school and notably Patrick Chabal note that Africa’s economic crisis does not favor the successful implementation of democracy on the continent. Democracy he argues is underpinned by capitalism, a uniquely dynamic and productive system, in its absence therefore there is doubt that democracy can be successfully instituted on the African sub-continent. This view has also supported the point that democracy is an imposition on Africa and thus will always fail the aspirations of those who seek to implement it on the continent. This thesis therefore sets out to answer some of this cynicism and provide a possible solution for the problems democracy in the African sub-continent faces. If anything democracy has not failed Africa, but Africa as shown by the poor actions of its leader, has failed to grasp the concept of democracy. It sets out trying to systematically bring out how through its political evolution, it is the failure to properly institute democracy during the second wave democratization process which has brought about the political crisis the sub-continent is facing. Secondly if neo-patrimonialism exists and survives today it is because leaders have twisted democratic tenets to suit their whims and caprices, thus legitimizing such authoritative regimes. The set backs it faced during the mid-1990 did not spell doom for democracy, but rather served as an eye opener for Africa. â€Å"The democratic struggle is a gradual process which will emerge from experience and improvisation as it continues to struggle† states professor Claude Ake, who believes that Africa’s experience will develop the best suited type of democracy that will solve its problems (Ake, 1993). Democracy can survive in Africa, but the players and fomenters must take several factors into consideration, like picking up more democratic ethics and tenets and developing a strong united civil society, showing more good will and respect towards their people and the state as opposed to the selfish and greedy attitude which has been noted to be the norm on the sub-continent. With time as adequate steps like institutionalization and consolidation are taken, democracy will be a success story in Africa. This view is also supported by Larry Diamond, who stated inter alia â€Å"†¦ if progress is to be made towards developing democratic governance, it is likely to be gradual messy, fitful and slow, with many imperfections along the way† (Diamond, 1989, p.24). Thus this piece looks at how these imperfections were created and how certain responses will set the sub-continent on track to democratic governance. This thesis starts off by looking at the development of democracy on the African sub-continent in the 1990’s. Chapter one will therefore start off looking at why the third wave started, how it happened and why it was believed to have been the new way for Africa. The case of post independent African politics was very elusive of the masses. The one party patrimonial state had proven to be disastrous, the military regimes which later emerged, preaching immediate growth and development also failed the aspirations of the people and so there was a general move by the people towards democracy. This was in addition to the external pressures that existed at the moment. Thus there was a general surge towards democratic elections in the sub continent, with several parties legalized and the political life of the sub-continent in different countries. Chapter two looks at the break down in the drive towards democracy. Why the democratic frenzy was short lived, only registering limited success across Sub-Saharan Africa. As the concepts of multiparty elections were applied across the sub continent, there were different outcomes with each case being very unique to the different nations. Generally democracy failed to take root. It was cosmetic and a virtual democracy as described by Richard Joseph. It will consider the reasons why this was the case. Given that almost all the countries in the sub-continent held elections of different kinds, did this imply they were all democracies? We will look at the new classifications of African regimes. Considering that they were all at this point considered transitionary. Chapter three starts off by considering the complex nature of democracy. It brings out a list of factors which qualify a state as a democracy or not. It then looks at the regimes on the sub-continent and categorizes them per the 2006 Freedom House Review. These are democracies (11), Hybrid regimes (23) and autocracies (14). Since our focus is on the failing state we shall look at the commonalities and differences between the hybrid and failed/unreformed regimes. In that light we shall bring out the common or popular concern for democracy in Africa which is the misconception democracy suffers and the need for institutionalization. Chapter four now looks at the problems African democracies have faced since inception. Considering the very broad nature and tone the thesis has taken this far, it will consider a case study on the Republic of Cameroon, a country in the Central African region of Africa, which has failed to properly institute democracy till date. It is considered an electoral autocracy and serves as a perfect example of how Africa, fails democracy. The problems this state faces are in effect what most of the states of the Sub-Saharan region face, certain outcomes may differ, but essentially the issues or problems are the same. This study will provide the perfect opportunity of putting into context all the issues that I have raised this far to buttress the point of the thesis, which is that it is the failure to fully understand and properly grasp the concept of democracy that has caused democracy to fail in this country and the sub-continent as a whole. These areas include the formation of political parties, to the electoral process, the narrow political field, constrained civil society, absence of civility, politicized violence and the international support for dictatorships. These points were adequately discussed by Professor Celestin Monga. Chapter five shall be the conclusion to this project in which we shall be looking at possible solutions to the problems raised above. It shall first suggest solutions to the problems duly raised and also consider effective institutionalization through the strengthening of the three tiers of government namely the executive, legislative and judiciary; so that there is a balance in power amongst these three. By applying these solutions in the Cameroonian context and eventually on the sub-continent, the African sub-continent will be brought closer to the mark of consolidated democracies. The Rebirth of Democracy (1990-1993) The period 1989-1993 was considered to be the break point for Africa. This is the period during which Africa witnessed a wave of regime changes. Hitherto to this period, single party, military regimes and presidents for life was the norm in most African states. Competitive politics was considered a luxury by most African leaders who stated that it was neither necessary nor affordable for Africans (Decalo, 1992). This belief was aptly described in the words of Sierra Leonean president at the time Siaka Stevens when he said of democracy and I quote ‘†¦it is a system of institutionalized tribal ethnic quiquennial warfare euphemistically known as elections which is an open invitation to anarchy and disunity’ (Decalo, 1992) a view which was endorsed by Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere who also stated that democracy was stronger with a one party state rule which unified the country. To back up this system of administration, it was claimed that Africa had its own unique history and tradition thus the introduction of democracy was a violation of the integrity of the African culture (Ake, 1991). The African traditional system in its own right, they further argued, was infused with democracy with standards of accountability considered to be stricter than the west, though invariably patrimonial, thus it possessed signs of a democracy-hence a democracy (Ake, 1991). A second argument put forward was the social composition of African states. Because of its plural nature, the introduction of liberal democracy could possibly inflame ethnic rivalries which will result in political disintegration. Democracy they argued was a distraction to what was important for society. It was a thing for elites and the educated masses and ended on paper, it did not provide or cater for the pressing needs of the rural masses. This one party protagonist’s concluded that a patrimonial system was going to unite and direct all positive energy towards economic development (Ake, 1991). Thus African style democracy as it came to be termed of one party politics was considered the best option for Africa given its complex social context, endorsed by most Western governments as shown by their cooperation with them. This ideology was even backed in cases by the World Bank as noted by their remark that â€Å"†¦with weak states, only a bureaucratic authoritarian regime could contain fissiparous tensions and lead to a free market economy†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Decalo, 1992). Africans believed so much in this style of administration Samuel Decalo talks of Mugabe during a state visit to the United States of America in the 80’s, who recommended to the American congress, the one party state system as an option they should consider (Decalo, 1992). A point to note here is the hypocrisy of this political ideology. Despite preaching governments of national unity and socio-economic development, the opposite was being practiced and witnessed in most countries. The presidency and administration became the possession of whatever ethnic group held the presidency. Nepotism was rife and groups were rather occupied with gaining a greater share of the existing pie than working for equitable development (Decalo, 1992). This political practice as a result accentuated the tribal and ethnic divide which existed within the many African states and fuelled anti-government sentiments amongst the population as we shall see below. A change to this political scenario though requisite, was least expected to occur by scholars, in a continent which had shown signs of defiance to a more liberal democracy by sticking to its own developed and formulated ideology of ‘Afro-Marxism’ (Decalo, 1992). There were strong calls both from within and without for a change to the system that was failing to provide adequately for their needs. This saw mass demonstrations, rallies and civil disobedience all calling for the return of democracy and for regime change. This was spawned by the stifling political authoritarianism and economic decay, further triggered by the spectacle of the fall of titans in East Europe (Decalo, 1992). The one party state had yielded a form of presidential authoritarianism, through which the state economy was plundered, there was a disdain for civic and human rights, and little or no attention was paid to the plight of the rural population (Decalo, 1992). Economic projects were failing to materialize; there was the absence of infrastructural development needed for this growth and above all a high rate of unemployment. The military regimes which took over power in certain instances to sweep clean the state failed to return power back to civilian rule and fell into the same predicament by falling short of the efficiency mark. These regimes were thus fundamentally unaccountable, personalized and patrimonial (Decalo, 1992). There were the failures of these regimes that could be considered the primary cause of the call to democracy and multipartyism. The growing urbanization and education of Africans made sensitive to the hostile political and economic environment being created by their leaders, thus they desired liberty and the respect of their rights which had been usurped and abused by this dictatorial one party system. They wanted their grievances listened to and solved by a regime that had been removed from the people, blind and deaf to their problems. The only way to do this was by mass protest against such regimes and seeking to over throw them. Economic related reasons, mainly externally influenced, could be said to be the greatest factors which led to this drive in re-democratization. Africa relied for a large part on international aid and loans to fund most of its activities. The administrative sector was the biggest employer in most countries, thus the money aid they received was used almost entirely on salary payments and carry out government businesses, rather than invest in lucrative businesses which could eventually pay back. Civil servants in the higher echelon were corrupt and embezzled these state funds to fund their luxurious lives. The growth registered within the economy was good but this was not sustainable growth and did not guarantee a future for the economy. Most corporations were state owned and private businesses were not promoted or were largely absent. As a result of all these, donor countries through the IMF and World Bank suggested certain adjustments be made with the governance system if they were to continue offering this aid and loans. This came to be known as the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) which called for African governments to privatize state owned corporations, cut down on its public sector and above all to democratize as conditions to receive aid. This provided a lee way for the dissenting voices of nationals who wanted change. They were joined by civil servants who suffered huge pay cuts and in extreme cases lost their jobs. This situation was further aggravated by the fall in commodity prices in the international markets meaning that African states were pretty much at the mercy of international donors, who wanted change with the regimes. Finally the demise of communism and the end of the Cold War also had an immense impact on the political life of African states. First of all it diverted the attention of investors to the newly liberalized and potential economies of Eastern Europe, thus reducing the amount of capital investments which flowed to the continent, affecting the African economy adversely. Secondly the West no longer supported the dictatorial regimes in Africa as it did during the Cold War days. They withdrew support from these regimes (example of Angola and Togo where they had supported antagonized sectarian groups) asking them to democratize as a condition for continuous aid and loans (Decalo, 1992). This was especially true of France who had since independence maintained a close link with Francophone African states and signed several military accords with African states offering them (military) support when they needed it; the case of Central Africa and the support they offered Idriss Deby against Bedel Bokassa 1990, one authoritarian regime for another. The Apartheid regime of South Africa also did not receive any more support from the West, who had pursued half hearted sanctions against this repressive regime. As soon as the Cold War came to an end, the Apartheid regime under pressure yielded and released Mandela, introducing reforms, forcing other African states to follow suit, who had used this regime to propagate a repressive rule against their citizens. They were thus forced to change. The first shots of democracy in Africa were noted in Benin, when in early 1990, students, civil servants and the whole community took to the streets denouncing the rule of then president, Mathieu Kerekou and calling for what they termed â€Å"a national sovereign conference of all active forces† (Richard Joseph, 1991). This sovereign national conference was to bring together representatives of the different sectors and works of life in a voice of national unity to address the problems of society. In the case of Benin, it resulted in the removal of President Mathieu Kerekou’s control of public policy and the establishment of a transitional government (Richard Joseph, 1991). The outcome of this was received with much delight in other African states and they later began calling for national conferences in their respective countries. This was the case in Togo, Zaire, Congo, Gabon and Cameroon. The out come was not necessarily the same as in the case of Benin, because not all the presidents yielded to such demands, they resisted these popular calls and tried making substantive concessions to the opposition (Richard Joseph, 1991). All in all it marked the beginning of change on the continent as a result of popular demand (democratic will, the voice of the people). All this pressure resulted in the democratization of Africa as noted by the re-legalization of political parties, restored freedoms of association, assembly and expression and also in the reform of constitutions which led to multiparty elections in most sub-Saharan states (Richard Joseph, 1998). Over the brief period of 1990-1994, 54 competitive elections were held in 29 countries with 30 of the electoral outcomes welcomed by the electorates and the process ruled as free and fair by observers (Bratton, 1998). One party rule was noted to have been replaced with more open and participatory competitive democracy. With the influx of these political parties, they were quick at pointing out the short comings of government, its administrative inefficiency, political corruption, economic mismanagement, and social decay (El-Khawas, 2001). Notably between 1990 and 1993, twenty five countries held elections with eleven opposition parties winning and coming to power. Though very commendable, the legalization of opposition parties did not necessarily mean democracy for African countries (Diamond, 1994). Even those who saw regime change sooner than later faced crisis thus questioning the durability of democracy in Africa, because certain cracks were noted in the firmament of this nascent African democracy. Looking at the above, democracy was not brought about by conditions of the west, but rather it was the desire and commitment of the people for accountability and meaningful development from their respective governments, further fuelled by the economic conditions and effects of the SAP, which only came to show how poorly the state was being managed. On the contrary the west could be accused of complacency. As earlier mentioned they had supported these authoritative regimes and cooperated with them. Even after conditions were placed on leverage, they never followed them up or pressed this dictatorial regimes to democratize as in the case of Kenya, Cameroon and Togo just to name a few, to which the international community still offered loans and did not question the actions of these governments like human rights abuse, which drew a lot of criticism from the press and public (Ake, 1991). Therefore the call for democracy was only emboldened by economic factors which brought change at the time to some countries (Benin ousting of Kerekou, Liberia, fall of Samuel Doe) but failed to change regimes in others (Cameroon, Nigeria, Kenya) and can not be said to be the main factor but a mix of both (Ake, 1991). Chapter Three: The Democratic Dark Days Following this run of political liberalization was a period of political violence, wars and crisis in a number of African countries that sent ripples down the nascent democracy in Africa. A critical look at the outcome of the first set of elections organized in the sub-continent drew a lot of criticism from pundits who considered the process as cosmetic and as failing in its objectives. What seemed to have been created on the African sub-continent was a virtual democracy as noted by Richard Joseph (Richard Joseph, 1993). This could be explained by the fact that in a number of African states, the incumbents managed to hang on to power after elections in their states, despite the mass demonstrations against their administrations and rule. It is necessary to remind ourselves here of the popular support democracy enjoyed in the different African states; it was not an orchestration or ploy of an elitist few, but a genuine request by all for change, thus a lot was expected in the form of regime changes across the continent. Despite this, a few countries (11 of the 25 countries that held competitive elections during the period of 1992-1993) and notably Zambia and South Africa managed to see a democratic change in leadership (El-Khawas, 2001). Thus the much anticipated democracy in sub-Saharan Africa was failing to take root. Regimes failed to be changed in Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Kenya and Ghana just to name a few, despite mass protest and popular support the opposition in these countries enjoyed. Elections were noted to be carried out in a politically tensed atmosphere, characterized by intimidation (house arrest and states of emergency), massive vote rigging and general violence. The experienced leaders with all the powers they wielded violated the rules of the country with impunity and after enjoying the booty they had siphoned from the economy, had every intention of staying in power and as a result did all to ensure their stay in power. ). As a matter of fact, the biblical adage of old wine in new wine skins held true here since there seemed to be nothing new to the political order in a number of states that witnessed elections. The story of ousted leaders on the continent during the military coup days of the 1960’s had not been an envious one; as such they would do anything to preserve power in the event where they had been very reckless with power (Young, 1996; De Walle, 2001). This is what Professor Ake Claude termed the leadership crisis of the continent; according to the professor the African political crisis resulted from the absence of true statesmen, but rather the prominence of those with every intention of ensuring their stay in power or having their own share of the national cake (Ake, 1996). This assertion has been supported by Richard Joseph, who holds that a prebendal system is set up, with entrenched corruption, and the leaders work only for the benefit of themselves and their clients, leaving the locals to their own devices for survival (Joseph, 2003). As such, these leaders organized charades in the name of elections, given that they controlled the judiciary and legislative and with this centralization of power they were able to corner the multitude of opposition parties they had legalized as a disorganizing technique of the opposition (Young, 1996). As such despite their inefficiencies, the leaders found themselves in power with very vindictive policies against opposition strongholds. This was the case in Kenya, Cameroon, Gabon and Ivory Coast, where particular regions and tribes were subject to marginalization and vengeance of the leader. In Kenya, Arap Moi and his cohorts fomented tribal conflicts that led to the death of about 1500 and displaced a further 350,000 in the rift valley area, in Cameroon the Anglophone West Cameroon was massively under represented in the government that was formed following the presidential elections of 1992. Millions of dollars which were funds for other projects were misappropriated to ensure such electoral successes and thus their stay in power (Diamond, 2008; Young, 1996). These leaders were also noted by the international community as having been endorsed by the people, and as a result the West continued its support of these corrupt regimes with poor human right records, and with incumbents who had every intention to continue pillaging the economy as before. The situation generally speaking looked bleak for the African Sub-continent which had received the third wave with such enthusiasm. The democratic quest was dealt further blows when civil wars and genocides broke out in some of the sub-Saharan countries; there was a return of the military to power in others. This period is considered to be the dark moments of African political development. The Congo Basin has been noted as one of the main trouble spots on the continent owing to the manner in which the wars which emanated from this region spread across, affecting all the countries sharing borders. Zaire for starters was under the tight grip of the dictator Mobuto Sese Seko, who did not give into the pressures for democratization. He refused convening a national conference, blaming it on technicalities of representation owing to the ethnic diversity and broadness of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo-DRC). Thus democracy did not effectively take root there, despite calls for the democratization by the masses. Armed conflicts broke out first in Burundi following the overthrow of the newly elected president Melchior Ndadaye, by Tutsi officers, trying to reinstate Tutsi control over the Tutsi dominated state. In neighboring Rwanda, the Hutu rule came to a halt when following elections in 1994 the Hutu president Juvenal Habyarimana had to form a coalition regime with the Tutsi minority, but was assassinated during the process, giving room to extremist Hutu’s to launch a genocidal raid against the Tutsi’s. These two wars led to the death and displacement of millions further enshrining the problems rocking this continent. The National Resistant Movement (NRM) initiated by Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, an arm movement against dictators in the Central-East of Africa and enjoying the support of western powers and international donors promoted more of the armed conflicts faced by this part of Africa. It supported rebels against the Kabila regime who had earlier ejected Mobuto from power in 1997 (following the wars in Rwanda which gave the rebels led by Kabila the impetus to fight Mobuto) following a fall out between the rebels and Kabila, leading to the Congo war lasting from 1998-2003 Young, 1996; Richard Joseph, 1998). The story of armed conflicts in the wake of an era of democratic elections is numerous on the African continent. One very interesting case to site here is that of Congo-Brazzaville, where democratic tides were considerably reversed following the forceful return to power by Denis Sassou-Nguesso who had earlier been defeated in elections in 1993 (Young, 1996). This was accomplished with the support of France and Angola in front of a dumb struck international community that only muttered on the events that were ravaging the continent. The Liberian and Sierra Leonean cases could also be sited, but given these it is good enough to make our analysis of the democratic struggle in Sub-Saharan continent. These crises resulted in the deaths of millions, refugee problems, food shortages and famines, poverty, a poor economy and low rate of development not only in countries involved, but affected the economy of other states in general as it stalled possible investments in this part of the world. International investors feared investing in a place which did not guarantee the safety of their businesses; they rather invested in the newly democratized states of West Europe. African investors themselves were fleeing with whatever capital they had; leading to massive capital flights and brain drain as whole families sought new places and beginnings. This far Africa was not providing a perfect home for Africans. If anything these moments looked to be supporting the claims of some African democratic skeptics and proponents of African socialism (and thus one party style democracy) that democracy let alone libe