Problems of philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Problems of philosophy - Essay Example Therefore, it can be deduced that philosophical problems do not exist far from the mere lay sense. These serious philosophical problems are compounded together and assigned either questions or names in line with the reasoning behind every method. This synthesis has afforded, the would be untenable, categories of philosophy to be managed easily and vividly in their respective assigned topics. These topics, among others, are; logic, epistemology, metaphysics, theology, aesthetics and ethics and in this paper I am going to shown how each of the readings of units 8 though unit 12 has dealt with at least each of these problems. Unit 8A is Interview with Spinoza/ David Brahinsky In this interview we get the opportunity to list to an interview between David Brahinsky and Spinoza. Baruch Benedictus Spinoza is counted among the greatest rationalists of the west. The discussion starts by Spinoza being given an opportunity to talk about his religion and he is categorical in stating that he beca me non-religious when such an idea was rare in the society. Although later in the discussion we see him stating that reasoning can be boosted by the understanding of the divine itself and for that case the divinity of God. His rationalism as a topic of philosophy is expounded by his strong belief in the power of reason, thought and logic. According to Spinoza reason can impact our thinking and lives and these include also our emotions and spirituality. This is where his metaphysics meets with his rationalism and we see even his interviewer being interested in the way Spinoza’s ideas have been incorporated in the constitution of the current United States. What also strikes is his disbelieve in duality and he holds hat there is nothing like body and mind, just like there is no superior mind which watches over us. In this speech the writer tries to expose all what Spinoza held dear in his philosophy although there is a leading voice in the way he conducts the conversation and mo st of the ideas discussed are in line with the writer’s right wing in philosophy. Unit 8 Dialogues Of Philonous and Hylas Readings: Gill, 257-275 In this dialogue, Berkeley launched a discussion through a dialogue between two men; Hylas and Philonous. The idea of epistemology kicks off the dialogue with both men discussing critically their nature of experiences on how things come to be known. The argument is hinged on metaphysics, specifically seeking to explain the ultimate nature of reality; immaterial and material. As a branch of philosophy, metaphysics seeks to examine the world and the basic tenets of being and in its rudimentary form; it seeks to answer two fundamental questions: what is there and what is it like. Therefore, the way we define object is the import and subject matter of this problematic branch of philosophy. Back to our conversation between Philonous and Hylas, another problematic topic is deployed as a means of justifying metaphysics. This is none other than epistemology which seeks to define knowledge, the way it is acquired and the way we know that we possess such knowledge. Both men in this dialogue, therefore, attempted to justify their metaphysics epistemologically, an approach which could be the easiest for these two intertwined topics. This use of epistemology becomes therefore an approach to trying to solve the problem of answering the questions; what is there and what it is like. It is agreeable that Philonous represents a wise philosopher and teacher because of his clear reasoning and authoritative assertions. Hylas is as if being treated to a lecture which is evident in the way his questions are being responded to by Philonous and the way he is taken through a logical

Criminal Justice Masters Program Comprehensive Exam Essay

Criminal Justice Masters Program Comprehensive Exam - Essay Example It is also otherwise referred to as ownership or proprietas (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2012). This indicates that even in the earliest versions of law in the West, it is recognized that a person has the right to protect and defend his dominium – his family, his property, and his well-being – from external aggression that harms or threatens to harm it. The right of self-defense is claimed by the aggressor or defendant charged with a violent crime. Some of these crimes include: battery (striking someone against his or her will), assault with a deadly weapon, assault with intent to commit serious bodily injury, manslaughter, and first or second degree murder (Bergman & Berman, 2009, p. 314). Self-defense is a justifying circumstance. It is an affirmative defense in that it justifies the use or threat of force exerted by an individual when he or she believes that there is a danger of an imminent, immediate, and unlawful infliction of serious bodily harm or death (Lippman, 20 10, p. 216). A criminal act, such as a homicide, is justified when it is resorted to in order to prevent a greater, imminent, and immediate harm, when there are no other equally effective alternatives possible. The court quoted: â€Å"all homicide is malicious, and of course, amounts to murder, unless†¦ justified by the command or permission of the law; excused on the account of accident or self-preservation; or alleviated into manslaughter, by being the involuntary consequence of some act not strictly lawful or (if voluntary) occasioned by some sudden and sufficiently violent provocation† (Blackstone, 1854, p. 201 in U.S. v Peterson, par. 14). In the modern application of the law, much of Blackstone’s commentaries are still relevant, although jurisprudence has enumerated the requisites that support a claim of self-defense. These are that the defendant: (1) must not have provoked or been the aggressor in the assault; (2) must have reasonable grounds for the belief that he is faced with imminent danger of serious bodily injury; (3) must not use more force than that which appears reasonably necessary; and (4) must do everything in his power consistent with his own safety to avoid the danger and must retreat if retreat is practicable (Lippman, 2010, p. 222). A special case when self-defense cannot be resorted to as a defense is when the accused invoking it is the very person who instigated or provoked the aggressive act. What this exactly means can only be explained by a perusal of case law where the principle was applied with varying premises and results. Case Law: United States v. Thomas, 34 F2. 44 (1994, 2nd Cir) The case concerned the fatal shooting of Wallie Howard, a Syracuse police officer who worked undercover for the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) during a â€Å"buy-bust† operation on 30 October 1990. In this instance, the suspected cocaine dealers decided to likewise rob Howard, who was seated in the front passen ger seat of a car. The perpetrators, Stewart and Lawrence, were each armed with .22 and .357 revolvers. Stewart tried to shoot Howard but failed because there was no bullet in the chamber. Howard gets off a shot and hits Stewart in the shoulder. Lawrence, standing at the rear passenger side of the car, shot at Howard, striking the rear of his head and instantly killing him. The two were arrested minutes later. The defendants, Lawrence and Stewart, claimed self-defense in that Howard was the first to draw his gun, and Lawrence believed that Howard

The Masquerade nightclub Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Masquerade nightclub - Essay Example This site offers patrons the opportunity to buy tickets to shows online. Information about the club is also present. Conveniently located in downtown Atlanta, the Masquerade has been the hotspot since 1989. One of the outstanding qualities of the club is the live music. The music played live and DJ spun is not mainstream music. Although there are some local band the open other acts at the Masquerade, most of the music is from established bands. The booking information for the website states: Currently, the Masquerade provides services to clients living in or visiting Atlanta, Georgia. They have established a presence in the downtown market through local advertising vehicles, patron endorsements, and the Internet. All of the Masquerade’s supporting administrative duties is handled by computer (i.e., appointments, billing, purchases, etc.). The Internet targets the high tech patron of the Masquerade. As mentioned before the Masquerade has created a website at http://www.masq.com . The advantages of the development of a website are: The scope of this project will be to create a better web-based interface for the Masquerade’s customers. Currently the Masquerade has a basic website that is updated regularly, but lacks in depth, interesting hyperlinks. Hyperlinks for the different bands would help the Masquerade’s patron better understand what tickets they are buying. This would help the Masquerade promote their live acts more efficiently. User Interface is the connection between Masquerade, patrons, and bands.

Economics - Discussion for online class Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Economics - Discussion for online class - Essay Example In terms of simple economic principles, satisfied customers would lead to greater demand or essentially an increase in demand. However, surveys indicate that retailers operating with Groupon do not plan to issue similar deals for another six months or so once they have allowed one deal package (Sloane, 2012). From Groupon’s perspective this means one thing only – a noticeable decrease in demand once retailers have used Groupon as a fast marketing tool. Essentially Groupon has the resources to galvanize large numbers of customers since it is connected to those customers. Retailers working with Groupon utilize this power of Groupon by using flash marketing by allowing deals to take place. Careful buyers will be expecting more deals in order to shop more but retailers will never be ready to sell their goods or services at discounted prices repeatedly. Hence, this would lead to a demand decrease on the part of the retailers for Groupon’s services. This decrease in demand has affected Groupon’s business the most since supply is still available though at unfavorable price

Supply Treated Lumber and Poles Essay Example for Free

Supply Treated Lumber and Poles Essay As instructed, we have provided one (1) original copy of the proposal. APT makes the following certifications and guarantees regarding this proposal: * APT will comply with all contract terms and conditions as indicated in this Solicitation. * APT proposal is predicated upon the Solicitation published on June 4, 2013; * APT certifies that the prices contained in this proposal have been arrived at independently, without consultation, communication, or agreement, as to any matter relating to such prices with any other bidder or with any competitor for the purpose of restricting competition; unless otherwise required by law, the prices quoted have not been knowingly disclosed by APT prior to award, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder or to any competitor. * As Sales Manager of APT, I am authorized by Power of Attorney to negotiate on behalf of APT and shall be responsible for the management of any potential contract that may result from this procurement process. As an officer of this company, my signature has authority to bind any contract that may result from negotiations with the National Guard Bureau concerning this proposal to furnish Treated Lumber and Poles of length and class indicated. I am responsible for the costs being offered in the proposal. 2. INTRODUCTION American Pole and Timber is a manufacturer and national supplier of treated poles, pilings, timbers, and industrial commercial structural wood products. We offer unique building material solutions to our clients through our materials sourcing expertise and our vast manufacturing capabilities. You can expect timely and accurate service, customized to your project needs and cost objectives. We supply Extended Life Wood Products including SFI and FSC Certified wood products, treated timbers, ISPM 15 heat treated wood, poles, pilings, treated lumber, timber trusses, wood bridges material, pipe supports, equipment saddles and gun barrel piling, as well as vinyl bulkhead and ultra-long lasting polymer coated wood. We are highly skilled at custom manufacturing and we can assist with the design of your project free of charge when you use our materials. We are grateful for the opportunity to submit our proposal to your purchase contract and we will show you why so many construction companies across the nation choose American Pole and Timber to supply their operations and projects. American Pole and Timber was founded on the core principles of hard work, responsiveness, integrity, and innovation. As a result, American Pole and Timber has become one of the industry’s most reliable resources for all classes and sizes of wood poles, lumber, piling, and crane mats. American Pole and Timber supplies almost any size post, wood poles, or piling you would require, anywhere across the nation. Most of our supply is Southern Yellow Pine and Douglass fir because of it excellent properties of strength versus cost and its acceptance of various levels of treatments to meet your project requirements. Our Product Consultants are happy to answer any questions you may have about treated poles and lumber. 3. TECHNICAL APPROACH American Pole and Timber lumber and wood poles come treated or untreated and wet or air dried. They are used in applications ranging from utility poles, to house pilings and columns, to retaining wall pilings, and ropes and challenge courses. You can also take advantage of our custom manufacturing services to get exactly the length, cut, or shape you need. We can supply almost any size or class of treated poles or treated pilings you need. All of our poles and pilings treated .60 p.cf. or greater are air dried before treating to ensure maximum penetration of the preservative. We also specialize in pressure treated lumber products, which can be manufactured to the custom sizes to meet your project requirements. We guarantee our products will be to your specifications and in accordance with national and local regulations. 4.1. Benefits of Building with APT Treated Poles and Lumber * APT Treated Poles and lumber have long life spans due to reduced heartwood exposure. * They can be sanded, stained, or painted to match existing dà ©cor. * APT Treated poles and lumber are stronger and suffer less warping than regular dimensional timbers. * Long life span and superior strength make APT treated poles and timbers very cost effective. * Polymer wood coating significantly increases the longevity APT poles and timber. 4.2. Capabilities as Industry Leader American Pole and Timber’s approach is to analyze the Customer’s needs, stay atop industry trends and standards, and provide competitive advantages, ongoing innovation and reliable resources necessary to exceed the demands. This has helped American Pole and Timber become an industry leader and a reliable resource for: * Cross Arms * Wooden Utility Poles * Douglas Fir Poles * Piling * Treated Fence Posts * Pentachlorophenol, Creosote, ACZA And CCA Treated Products * Treated Wood Cross Ties * Western Cedar Poles American Pole and Timber provides varying degrees of pressure treatment designed to delay the decaying process and ensure pole longevity. This process will be used in this contract. American Pole and Timber sells  pressure treated utility poles and lumber for a variety of applications including piers, docks and other marine construction as well as complex foundation systems and landscaping substructures. APT is a high-quality utility pole and lumber manufacturer, supplier and producer we use both Douglas fir and Cedar Wood, identified as one of the leading renewable wood resources. APT has facilities strategically located near the Klamath and California Coast ranges where we own an abundance of Douglas fir and Cedar wood plantations, and will thus be able to supply the pole and lumber material specified in the solicitation. 4.3. Wood Treatment Recommendations Timber structures in a marine environment are subject to attack by a variety of destructive organisms. Thus, they should be properly treated with appropriate preservatives to prevent or retard this type of deterioration. The timber APT is offering as part of this proposal will be pressure treated with an appropriate preservative. The choice of preservative depends on how the timber product is to be used (pile, cap, stringer, decking, etc.) and what kind of climate exists where the installation is to be made (cold, temperate, semitropical, tropical). Thus, the requirements are greatest in warm water harbors where Limnoria tripunctata and pholads are present. Pacific Coast Douglas fir has less sapwood than Southern pine so that retention measurement of preservative is generally made in the outer 2 inches for fir as compared to the outer 3 inches for pine. APT is thus offering treated Douglas fir poles and lumber, which are best suited for the intended application and would be a signifi cant upgrade in quality over standard competitor offerings. APT follows the AWPA standards and Federal specifications for treatment which indicate the required retention level of the various wood preservatives. Wood piling should be treated according to their particular purposes, and this being a cold water marine application, APT will use pressure treatment using a preservative specified by AWPA standards and Federal specifications. Creosote, creosote-coal tar solutions, or creosote-petroleum solutions are effective preservatives, but present a possible contamination problem from being tracked onto vessels. Salt treatments are effective, but may embrittle or promote accelerated wear of the deck surface. Solutions of pentachlorophenol in oil are effective, but  they also may cause a pollution problem. Treatment with Chromated Copper Arsenate should provide protection without the contamination problems, especially when a clean surface is specified in the procurement, as it is in this case. APT will thus offer Chromated Copper Arsenate pressure treatment on the supplied Douglas fir poles and lumber, another significant upgrade in quality over standard competitor offerings. 4.4. Delivery and Distribution APT uses a Just in Time (JIT) inventory and delivery system. Benefits include: * Poles are Where you need them, When you need them. * Over 30-year track record of on-time shipments. * No need to carry large inventories. APT has a regional distribution network. Benefits and features include: * Expedited, timely delivery across town or across country * Minimal freight costs. * Keeps product pricing competitive. * Rail Capability. * Self-Unloading Trucks. APT has several years of experience in Rapid Disaster Response: * Proven capabilities in disaster situations. * Alliances ensure sufficient supply and quick response. * Ability to boost manufacturing capabilities to meet immediate needs. * Emergency Operations Plan in place for APT headquarters. 4.5. MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) 4. PAST PERFORMANCE REFERENCES American Pole and Timber has been a supplier for several large and small projects in the past that include, but are not limited to the following. * Marine Shoreline: Coastal and waterway projects from bulkheads, fender systems, and retaining walls to beach houses and marinas. * Industrial Production: Support Saddles, Trusses, Columns, Corbels, Timber Fender Systems. * Commercial: Restaurants, Golf Courses, Bridges, Theme Parks and Water Parks. Since the solicitation is for a marine environment, APT is providing a list below of (3) past references of marine projects that APT has been a supplier on. 1. Residential and commercial ocean front properties on the west end of Galveston Island. 5. RESUMES FOR KEY STAFF Xxx xxxSales ManagerAmerican Pole and Timber7100 Baker DriveTitusville, NM, 87312Ph: 800-716-0636Core Competencies and Skills * Familiarity with all aspects of supplier relationship management. * Ability to cope with dynamic market conditions and develop sales strategy accordingly. * Ability to work in high-stress environments and to make complex decisions regarding pricing. * Extensive knowledge of sales and marketing  strategies. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills including formal presentation skills. * Persuasiveness, Adaptability Innovation. * Judgment and Decision-making. * Collaboration.EducationKeller University Chicago, IL 1990 – 1993Master of Business Administration/MBA in sales and marketingBoston University Boston, MA 1988– 1989Bachelor’s degree in business administration/sales and marketingExperience20 years of experience in Sales Management.American Pole and Timber, Titusville, NM (1999 – Present)Senior Sales ManagerReport directly to the Vice-President regarding annual sales growth. Organize and manage the sales team to achieve the required sales targets.Thomasson Company, Philadelphia, MS (1994 – 1999)Sales ManagerManaging and training a hardworking, results-oriented sales force. Helping with several management functions to support sales functions.| Madeline MercadoMaterial Planning and Control SpecialistAmerican Pole and Timber7100 Baker DriveTitusville, NM, 87312Ph: 800-716-0639Core Competencies and Skills Proven ability to prepare reports, review bills of materials, oversee make/buy decisions, read drawings, perform materials and inventory control as well as monitor supply chain. Working knowledge and or proficiency in the following: * MRP * JIT * ISO9000 * ISO14001 †¢ CostPoint project management software package by Deltek * Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint * Financial Reports * Secret Clearance EducationCentral Florida University Orlando, FL 1995– 1999Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Experience14 years of experience in Material Planning and Control.American Pole and Timber, Titusville, NM (2003 – Present)Material Planning and Control Specialist Monitored all production and inventory, scheduled assignments, prepared reports and communicated with management, technical staff and customers regarding potential problems, schedules and production status. Luna Flooring Inc, Oakland, California (1999 – 2002)Associate BuyerProvided direct support to sales with regard to sourcing activities. Managed ETA accuracy consistent with departmental  metrics. Ensured timely delivery of merchandise through consistent communication.| Jeff CarlsonQuality Control InspectorAmerican Pole and Timber7100 Baker DriveTitusville, NM, 87312Ph: 800-716-0654Core Competencies and Skills Over 30 of experience in the lumber industry with skills including but not limited to: * Overseeing and ensuring quality, %Mc etc of lumber products * Schedule species, thicknesses, grades to be sawn. * Schedule, set sorts, grade marks, package size for Dryline breakdown * Oversee quality of lumber. Grades, thickness, manufacture of all lumber produced. * Work with Safety Personal to provide training to ensure a safe work environment. * Provide training for lumber inspectors, quality assurance initiatives and supervisory. * QC Certification by National Hardwood Lumber Association.EducationNHLA Inspector Training School Chicago, IL 1975– 1977AA degree in QA/QC Inspection.Experience30 years of experience in Lumber Industry.American Pole and Timber, Titusville, NM (2003 – Present)Lead QA InspectorResponsible for QA inspection and certification of all lumber products shipped to customers. Responsible for updating and improving QA standards and training of QA inspectors. BB Lumber Co. / Premier Hardwood Products (1991 – 2001)Lumber Operations ManagerOversee all phases of lumber operation.Oversee Inventory Traffic and Maintenance Departments| 6. COST / PRICING Based on the requirements listed in the solicitation, APT is pleased to offer you the following price quotation. Description| Size| Qty Rqd| Price| Unit| Total| Treated Lumber| 2X2X12 | 10| $410| Ea| $4,100| Treated Lumber| 4X4X16| 20| $500| Ea| $10,000| Treated Lumber| 6X6X16| 20| $600| Ea| $12,000| Treated Pole| 8X16 | 10| $250| Ea| $2,500| Treated Pole| 10X16 | 10| $300| Ea| $3,000| Treated Pole| 12X16 | 20| $400| Ea| $8,000| | | | TOTAL| $39,600| We thank you for this opportunity and look forward to working with the National Guard Bureau. REFERENCES 1. www.fbo.gov 2.â€Å"World Class Contracting – 5th Edition† by Gregory A. Garrett. 3.http://www.americanpoleandtimber.com/ 4.http://www.thomassoncompany.com/about_thomasson.php 5.www.greatsampleresume.com

Relevance of International Human Resource Management

Relevance of International Human Resource Management The study of International Human Resource Management is fine if you are going to work in a large Multinational Enterprise, but has no relevance for individuals who are going to work in small firms. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons and appropriate examples to support your answer. This paper sets out to show that the study of international human resource management is of benefit to individuals who are going to work in small firms whether in a management or worker capacity . It is noted that a â€Å"small firm† may or may not be multinational and for the purpose of this discussion it is assumed that the inference is that they are not. This paper will demonstrate that through showing that an appreciation of different approaches to work there can be benefits for the individual employee and the manager. Further benefits will be seen through demonstrating that strict adherence to accepted national customs and culture can have a negative effect on business success. There will also be a discussion on how individuals and businesses need to be aware of the increasingly multicultural nature of the British workforce. To open this debate it is necessary to define what is meant by the term â€Å"international human resource management†. Investigation into the term suggests that the emphasis lies on how to operate the human resource management function in multinational businesses and that it is concerned with the similarities and differences of managing in different countries and how to integrate a business culture across international boundaries. However, it is found that little attention is given to the fact that the UK has an increasingly multinational workforce and whilst they may be subject to the systems, procedures and laws of the UK, they way they think and operate is strongly affected by their personal national culture which may vary significantly to that of the UK. The BBC reports that â€Å"(a) record 582,000 people came to live in the UK from elsewhere in the world in 2004, according to government expertsâ€Å" (BBC 2005, p. not given). They further suggest that this influx is necessary to help the UK economy grow as the majority of these migrants have come to the country to work. The Times newspaper supports this in reporting that â€Å"Britain needed workers for 600,000 vacancies, including low-paid jobs that were often difficult to fillâ€Å" and goes on to say that â€Å"(e)mployers are aggressively recruiting staff from other countries† (Nugent et al 2004, page not given). They also found that 96% of these migrants were employed in full time work (Nugent et al 2004). This shows that the UK workforce is becoming increasingly multinational and diverse. The main arguments for the increase in awareness of international human resource management would seem to stress the pressures on managers working in multinational businesses. As an example of this, Trompenaars et al tell us that â€Å"(i)nternational managers have it tough. They must operate on a number of different premises at any one time. These premises arise from their culture of origin, the culture in which they are working and the culture of the organisation which employs them† (Trompenaars et al 1997, p. 3). However, the writer would argue that the same challenges also face those working in a solely UK based business as they become increasingly likely to be working with and for colleagues who originate from countries other than the UK and have different cultural expectations. To be able to ensure that the working relationship between groups is a productive and positive one, each individual would benefit from an understanding of some aspects of international human resou rce management especially in the area of culture where attitudes towards leadership, motivation, and pay and recognition may vary. A further benefit of awareness of different human resource management practices may be the realisation that UK based businesses may be able to adopt positive aspects of other countries work practices and cultures. Mullins (2005) states, there are benefits to be found in a business looking at how it’s national culture may be limiting their ability to be strategically competitive. He continues by citing Trompenaars who felt that his own work â€Å"helped managers to structure their experiences and provided insights for them and their organisations into the real source of problems faced when managing across cultures or dealing with diversity† (Trompenaars 1999, p. 31. cited in Mullins 2005, p. 43). Against the argument for individuals who are going to work in a small firm studying international human resource management is the range of areas such a topic covers. International human resource managers need to have an appreciation of the laws and policies of the countries their employer operates in and whilst this may of interest to a UK employee, it is not an area they would automatically be able to influence or change. This brings us to the questions of whether rather than international human resource management, what we are discussing is the management of diversity both from the point of view of a manager who supervises the work of a multicultural workforce or the case of an individual worker whose colleagues originate from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Brooks supports this point and states that â€Å"(d)ifferences in national culture may have a bearing on how organisations deal with each other and also on behaviour within organisations which comprise a mix of nationalities† (Brooks 2003, p. 264). Francesco and Gold say that â€Å"managers must develop organizational systems that are flexible enough to take into account the meaning of work and the relative value of rewards within the range of cultures where they operate† (Francesco et al 1998, p. 144) and whilst when saying this, they meant it to be applied to multinational organisations, the same can be said to be true of those working in a multicultural environment nationally based. Mullins agrees with this in saying that â€Å"there are a number of very good reasons why we could usefully understand cultural differences (and similarity) at work, based on new awareness contributing to our own effectiveness and moreover to the accomplishment of organisational goals† (Mullins 2005, p. 44). He goes on to say that â€Å"there could therefore be advantages of cross-cultural awareness which include: increased self-awareness; sensitivity to difference; questioning our own assumptions and knowledge; lessening ignorance , prejudice and hatred† (Mullins 2005, p. 44). As an example, a manager with a predominantly British cultural background may need to adapt their motivational techniques for individuals from cultures where recognition through praise is more highly regarded than a financial bonus. From the writers own experience, a common UK practice of publicising individual performance levels was found to be highly demotivating and a source of unease amongst a predominantly Asian workforce. Adler suggests there are inbuilt dangers where multi-cultural teams operate â€Å"(m)istrust including stereotyping; miscommunication with potential for reduced accuracy and resultant stress; process difficulties, that is failure to agree when agreement is needed or even what constitutes agreement when arriving at decisions† (Adler 1997, cited in Mullins 2005, p. 44). To overcome these potential issues, there must be an understanding and appreciation of the human resource management systems of other cultures as these will influence the work expectations and practices of the workforce. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) see the embracing if diversity as being crucial. They say that â€Å"(t)oday, many organisations are out-thinking and outperforming their competitors by using diversity as a strategy for ensuring long-term success and advantageâ€Å" (CIPD date not known page not given). They support his view by adding that â€Å"(i)n the face of changing demographics, a narrowing talent pool and an increasingly global marketplace, nurturing the creativity, innovation and hidden potential of organisations is vital† (CIPD date not known page not given). A further aspect to be considered is the legal requirement for companies to embrace diversity in their workforce. Since the 1970s there has been an increasing amount of legislation in the UK relating to pay equality and sex and racial discrimination. However, a CIPD survey found that 68% of respondents gave â€Å"legal pressures† as the key driver for diversity in their business (CIPD 2006, p. 3) suggesting rather than an appreciation of the business benefits of embracing diversity, the importance placed on these issues is due more to a fear of the negative publicity and costs associated with legal action as a result of discrimination. The concept of international human resource management has been seen to be mainly the concern of individuals who are to intend to operate across geographical boundaries. It has been demonstrated however that there are many aspects of the subject that are not only applicable to those intending to work for a small firm, but could also benefit them in being able to encourage cultural diversity and adopt good practice from other countries. The increasingly multi national workforce in the UK and the introduction of legislation relating to diversity means that employers and employees must have an awareness of the areas of international human resource management that relate to understanding and embracing cultural differences. References and bibliography. Adler, N.J. (2001). International Dimensions of Organizational Behavior. California, USA: South-Western College Publishing. BBC. (2005). Record immigration levels to UK. Accessed at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4359756.stm on 7/03/2007. Brooks, I. (2003). Organisational Behaviour: Individuals Groups and Organisations. 2nd ed. Harlow: Prentice Hall FT. CIPD. (date not known).The Psychology of Diversity. Accessed at: http://www.cipd.co.uk/CMSTraining/Psychology+of+Management/Psychology+of+Management/PCD.htm on 7/03/2007. CIPD (2002). New research shows international HR managers create global culture. Accessed at: http://www.cipd.co.uk/pressoffice/_articles/20092002135000.htm?IsSrchRes=1 on 9/02/2007. CIPD. (2003). HR’s Contribution to International Mergers and Acquisitions. London: CIPD. CIPD. (2006). Diversity in Business: How Much Progress have Employers Made. First Findings. London: CIPD. Francesco, A. M. Gold, B. A. (1998). International Organizational Behavior: Texts, Readings, Cases and Skills. Harlow: Prentice Hall FT Lucas, R. Lupton, B. Mathieson, H. (2007). Human Resources Management in an International Context. London: CIPD. Markides, C. Geroski, P.(2003). â€Å"Colonizers and consolidators: the two cultures of corporate strategy† in Strategy and Business. Fall Vol 32 p 46-55. Mullins, L.J. (2005). Management and Organisational Behaviour. Harlow: Prentice Hall. Nugent, H. Tendler, S. Patty, A. (2004). Foreign workers snap up the jobs that Britons on benefit reject. Times newspaper. November 11, 2004. Trompenaars, F. Hampden-Turner, C. (1997). Riding the Waves of Culture: Understanding Cultural Diversity in Business. London: Nicholas Brealey Publishing Ltd. Trompenaars, F. (1999). Trans-Culture Competence. People Management, 22nd April, p. 31. Trompenaars, F. Hampden-Turner, C. (2004). Managing People Across Cultures. Oxford: Capstone Publishing Ltd.

Influenza Causes People to Stay Home :: Journalism Media Studies Health Medical Essays

Influenza Causes People to Stay Home Yesterday the influenza record was broken as the highest number of [cases] in New York City alone was 5589 in a single day! The numbers are staggering and many people are looking at taking more precautions at preventing the disease to spread to them and loved ones. People everywhere are wondering if enough is being done to prevent influenza from spreading. The board of health has passed a sanitary code which includes the following sections: "Section 89 of the sanitary code requires isolation and quarantine of persons infected with infectious disease. Section 98 of the sanitary code provides that no person in the city of New York, without a permit therefore issued by the Board of Health, carry, move, or caused to be carried, or moved in any matter whatsoever in any public place or street any person infected with infectious disease, nor shall any person remove or cause to be removed in the City of New York any such person from any building or vessel, without a permit therefore, issued by the Board of Health. Section 100 of the Sanitary Code provides that no person shall by any exposure of any individual sick with an infectious disease or by any negligent act connected therewith, or by a needless exposure of himself cause, contribute to, or pr omote the spread of disease to any such person." However even with these strict sanitary codes people are taking further measures. Many parents that I interviewed reported that they were even avoiding sending their children to school because of fear of catching influenza. Jack Smith of Manhattan stated, "Why would I want to put my children at such a risk? I would rather sacrifice a small portion of their education for their protection and even lives." Schools are however making serious efforts at preventing the spread of disease amongst students. Dr. William L Ettinger who is the Superintendent of Schools, sent a letter of instructions for all school officials on how to deal with influenza in the schools. Some of these instructions state that "proper and adequate ventilation of classrooms must be maintained" and that "pupils be required to hold their pocket handkerchiefs in front of their mouths and noses when coughing and sneezing." Another rule given amongst the long list is that "each teacher be instructed to inspect her class of pupils carefully each day and to refer to the school doctor or nurse any child showing acute cold, congestion of the eyes with watery secretion from the nose, acute sneezing or coughing.