Theoretical concepts of accounting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Theoretical concepts of accounting - Essay Example Proponents of free market approach have also supported a wait and see approach in relation to economic and financial changes taking place all over the world. In fact, the free market proponents reject the idea of intervention by governments for the sake of adjusting the distracted economy, and have based their arguments on the claim that demand and supply forces interact to ultimately bring stability in the distracted economic conditions (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan). However, malpractices of those charged with the governance and misuse of authority often overrun the expected balances to be attained in a free market model through demand and supply interaction (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan). One of the most relevant and quotable example in this regard can be of the Enron Scandal, which obviously had nothing to do with the free market model and demand and supply forces, but government intervention to safeguard the interests of general public throu gh Sarbanes Oxley Act (SOX) was deemed appropriate (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan).... , under free market approach, shall be opted to enhance the role of market forces and when needed, government intervention, whether in the form of accounting regulations or other regulatory frameworks shall be introduced to ensure that no deviation from the objective of benefiting society and corporate entities takes place (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan). Certainly, after the recent experiences of financial crisis and the increasing debate regarding the lack of ethical practices towards corporate governance and corporate social responsibility, the need to bring regulatory measures have been felt as never before (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan). Before going into the details of differences between the assumptions underlying the capital market research and behavioural research, it is pertinent to understand what capital market research and behavioural research implies (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan). The capital market research evalu ates the overall impact of financial reporting on investors only; whereas behavioural research takes into consideration the responses towards financial reporting by separate individuals, which is reflected by the decisions made by different users of financial statements. The assumptions for each of the research type are based on the nature of these researches (Deegan and Unerman; Rankin, Stanton and McGowan). As for instance, under capital market research it is assumed that investors are the most important stakeholders who take into consideration the financial reporting by business entities to base their decisions upon them. On the other hand, the assumptions used under behavioural research are entirely contrasting to the capital market research, as it is assumed that every stakeholder,

Crime-free Children Today Essay Example for Free

Crime-free Children Today Essay Open a newspaper or switch on the radio for news and you will no doubt see a number of horrifying crimes reported there murder, rape and robberies are no longer surprising or shocking news to the Indian citizens. But what can shock us is the fact that most, at least a third, of the crimes committed in a year are by youngsters below the age of 18. Juvenile delinquency is increasing rapidly. A large part of the world’s children are in India. Children are often perceived as the epitome of innocence and naivetà © by most people. But the phrase â€Å"child-like innocence† can no longer be used, because the adolescents are one of the most violent age categories in the world. There are many incidences of crimes committed by the adolescents these days. The number of juvenile court cases are increasing and the crimes become more horrifying by the minute. There are increasing evidences of road rages, crimes against women, violence in school etc. all committed by teenagers. Parents and others involved in a child’s life are equally responsible for the child’s hostile behavior. The amount of violence in the adolescent’s day-to-day life plays a large role in this issue, too. The child’s guardians have to take time to understand this complex problem and try to solve it; but what most of the Indian parents do is say to themselves, â€Å"He/she will grow out of it,† and simply avoid the issue, hoping it is just a phase. But this ignorant way of treating the problem is the start of a life-long trouble that will not only affect the family, but also the society, because in most of the cases of aggressive juvenile violence, the adolescent grows to be a criminal, thus delaying the development and progress of the nation.  The family does not bother to think of what may be the cause of the child’s behavior. Violent mannerisms in children can include a wide range of behaviors: explosive temper tantrums, physical aggression, fighting, bullying, homicidal thoughts, use of weaponry, cruelty towards animals, destruction of property etc. Most of this is caused by the problematic upbringing of the child – parents who pamper and spoil their children or agree to the child’s tantrums are endangering the child’s future. The television and the media can also increase a child’s violent tendencies. A child tends to imitate what he observes and this is a huge problem in India, because Indian cinema often has its heroes resort to violence to bring down their opponents. This makes the child think that using assault and bloodshed to achieve one’s needs is fine. Video games lessen the child’s value for a human life, as most of them involve killing animated characters. Being a victim of sexual abuse, presence of firearms in the house and even head injuries during childhood can cause adolescent violence. Remember, violence always leads to violence. Now that most of the people and the Government of India are starting to recognize and address this issue, solutions have to be found and made accessible to the citizens. Parents have to look out for signs of intense anger, impulsiveness, irritability and cruelty in children and look for the reason. Feelings of revenge and vengeance should be discouraged; tell them what the Father of our Nation once said, â€Å"An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.† Make it clear to them that violence does not solve anything. Only clearheaded thinking can lead to good results. The amount of violence that the child is exposed to through media has to be restricted, but the media can also help by raising awareness and to show the children the adverse affects of violence. Developing a reading habit is also highly helpful in curbing a child’s hostility. Family conflicts, problems in school, discrimination by other children etc. should be found out and solved. Parents should not hesitate to consult a psychiatrist if necessary. Making the adolescent part of the Indian population is necessary because only calm and responsible children can grow into stable, responsible, patriotic citizens in the future. We should remember that it is the youth that will shape our country’s future. Every child is bright in his or her own way and it is the duty of the adults to keep the light burning, for the next generation will fulfill the dreams of our great leaders and lead our  nation to its victorious destiny only if our society is united, strong and nonviolent. Teach the children to follow the Mahatma’s policy, the motto that toppled the British, the strongest invading force of the past century: nonviolence.

IQ Tests Are Appropriate as a Part of a Job Interview Essay example --

William Stern in the 1912 took the mental age of an individual, divided it by the chronological age and obtained the ratio, which he called an intelligence quotient. Intelligence quotient (IQ) is a score used to express the relative intelligence of a person. In the modern society with high competition in different areas intelligence tests are widely used. IQ tests starting to appear in job interviews as a part of the application process as well. This is still a controversial issue about whether IQ tests should be included in the employability process, but due to the increasing rivalry for job placements worldwide, IQ tests are one of the options to be brought up. IQ tests are standardised tests, which signifies that the tasks appearing in the examination are the same for all participants, the conditions, given instructions and amount of time for completion are equal for each applicant. Standardised tests help prevent stereotypical errors, for example, there is no preconception related to ethnic or cultural background, age or appearance differences. Although it is argued that there are noticeable differences between genders’ performance on various tasks, it is widely acknowledged disparity, particularly in mental rotation of three-dimensional objects tasks (MRT). (Linn, 1985) Males tend to perform slightly better than women, although females tend to score to a greater degree at verbal skills, for instance linguistic reasoning. IQ tests are administered properly and being evaluated using means and standard deviations - normal distribution measures – which carries no effect on the performance of different genders. IQ tests are meas ured in a standard manner which allows to evaluate every individual retaining their anonymity and rely o... ...Mills, C. (1997). Gifted Children with Learning Disabilities: A Review of the Issues. Kaufman J.C., Plucker J.A. (2011). Intelligence and Creativity. The Cambridge Handbook of Intelligence. Cambridge University Press; Cambridge. Linn, M. C., & Petersen, A. C. (1985). Emergence and Characterization of Gender Differences in Spatial Abilities: A Meta-Analysis. Child Development, 56, 1479–1498. Roid, G.H. (2003). Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, Fifth Edition: Technical manual. Itasca, IL: Riverside Publishing. Sattler, J. M. (1992). Assessment of Children (3rd edition). San Diego, CA: Author. Wechsler, David (1939). The Measurement of Adult Intelligence. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins. Wechsler, David (1944). The Measurement of Adult intelligence (3rd edition). Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins. Stern, William (1912). The Psychological Methods of Intelligence Testing.

James Joyces Araby - Lack of Insight in Araby :: Joyce Dubliners Araby Essays

Araby – Lack of Insight  Ã‚   Readers of "Araby" often focus on the final scene as the key to the story. They assume the boy experi ­ences some profound insight about himself when he gazes "up into the darkness." I believe, however, that the boy sees nothing and learns nothing--either about himself or others. He's not self- reflective; he's merely self-absorbed. The evidence supporting this interpretation is the imagery of blindness and the ironic point of view of the narrator. There can seem to be a profound insight at the end of the story only if we empathize with the boy and adopt his point of view. In other words, we must assume that the young boy is narrating his own story. But if the real narrator is the grown man looking back at his early adolescence, then it becomes pos ­sible to read the narrative as ironic and to see the boy as confused and blind. The story opens and closes with images of blindness. The street is "blind" with an "uninhabited house†¦ at the blind end." As he spies on Mangan's sister, from his own house, the boy intentionally limits what he is able to see by lowering the "blind" until it is only an inch from the window sash. At the bazaar in the closing scene, the "light was out," and the upper part of the hall was "completely dark." The boy is left "gazing up into the darkness," seeing nothing but an inner torment that burns his eyes. This pattern of imagery includes images of reading, and reading stands for the boy's inability to understand what is before his eyes. When he tries to read at night, for exam ­ple, the girl's "image [comes] between him and the page," in effect blinding him. In fact, he seems blind to everything except this "image" of the "brown-clad figure cast by [his] imagination." The girl's "brown-clad figure" is also associated with the houses on "blind" North Richmond Street, with their "brown imperturbable faces." The houses stare back at the boy, unaffected by his presence and gaze. The most important face he tries and fails to read belongs to Mangan's sister. His description of her and interpretation of the few words she says to him can be seen as fur ­ther evidence of his blindness. He sees only what he wants to see, the "image" he has in his mind's eye.

Center of Pressure Essay

Introduction: The point in a body at which the resultant pressure acts when the body is immersed in a fluid. The apparatus for center of pressure. Objective: The object of this experiment was to calculate the hydrostatic force a fluid exerts on a submerged plane surface and then compare the experimental hydrostatic force to the theoretical hydrostatic force. Theory: The apparatus defining the physical dimensions, this nomenclature will be used throughout this theory. Whilst the theory for the partly submerged and fully submerged plane is the same, it will be clearer to consider the two cases separately. The apparatus can make the calculation center of pressure. A fluid at rest is said to be a static condition. the fluid particle experiences a constant pressure on all sides acting inward towards a single point at its center. The horizontal x and y components of the pressure are equal and opposite and have a net sum of zero. It can be said that the pressure does not change in the horizontal direction, The apparatus for center of pressure. Apparatus: * The hydraulics bench * The hydrostatic pressure apparatus * A set of weights * A jug * Calipers or ruler, for measuring the dimensions of the quadrant For siphoning * A measuring cylinder, or other container of water of similar height to the hydrostatic pressure tank. * A length of small bore flexible tubing. Method 1. Place the center of pressure apparatus on a level surface. This is important for obtaining an accurate force balance scenario. 2.

Is International Trade a Zero Sum Game

Is International Trade a Zero Sum Game Introduction International trade has of recent increased rampantly due to free flow of information across the borders majorly enhanced by good communication. With the rapid development of technology, many businesses have been endowed with the power to interact with overseas producers and consumers of different type of goods and services.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Is International Trade a Zero Sum Game? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Benefits of international trade International trade has a number of benefits. First, many countries get the chance to acquire what they do not produce and sell what they have in surplus. Some countries also get the opportunity to buy products at cheap prices as compared to the cost of manufacturing the goods domestically (Bhagwati, 2004). This trade has majorly been supported by relaxations of some tight policies imposed by most countries. The late inclination in the strength of c ommunication through tools such as email address among others ensures business partners get in touch with each other in time. Delays caused by letters as for the ancient period is a history and no longer hold any logic. International trade also gains some benefits through its extension to the financial market (Fingerand Schuknecht, 1999). Financial market involves buying and selling of foreign currencies due to several reasons such as anticipation of the future rise in the value of the currency. The market also comprises investment in foreign market securities such as bonds and shares. A deep insight in the international trade reveals that some members have benefitted while others get hurt. Often, research reveals that developing nations have able to gain in terms of technology. The discrepancy that exists between developing nations and developed nations is quite wide and only international trade that can act as solution. Most of the technologies applied in the industrial sector by developing nations are acquired from developed nations (Bhagwati, 2004). These technologies are fundamental in production efficiency. This efficiency is what leads to high quality products. Technology has also helped to solve the time issue during production processes. With the launching of computers in developing nations, supervision and management of many businesses have been made easier.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More On the other hand, developed nations are able to outsource cheap labor from developing nations. They additionally get the chance to dispose their surplus products. This has further enhanced their production capacity in their countries. Foreigners are also availed with the chance to invest in other countries economy. This has seen several multinational companies increase their level of profits. Disadvantages of international trade Recent confirmat ions have pointed out a number of setbacks concerning the international trade. Both developed and developing nations accused bodies that control international trade including World Bank, International Monetary Fund and World Trade Organizations for the exploitation by some countries. This has led to several debates of whether a nation gains or losses after participating in the international trade. Some countries such as the U.S.A. perceive international trade as weighing more on the negative than on the positive side. As much as it was able to sell its industrial goods to most countries, recently, many countries especially from Europe began to import cheap products from Asian countries such as Japan and China. With the help of cheap labor and latest technology, these Asian countries are able to produce cheaply. As a result, they give stiff competition to their U.S.A. counterparts. This consequently leads to the reduction of the U.S.A. exports to other nations. Noticeably, this autom atically reduces the U.S.A gross national income. On the contrary, the imports from other nations seem to be rapidly increasing. The strength of the U.S.A. dollar favors importation of goods and services especially from developing countries; but on the other hand, importation seems to be superseding exportation levels. Logically, the country would be making less money from exportation to enable easy of exports purchasing. Many will term it as â€Å"many goods chasing few dollars†. In short, there is no balance on the ongoing economical activities. Commonly, this is referred to as imbalance of trade. Such country might fail to meet its national budget outlay or forced to borrow loans from the international bodies such as World Bank and International Monetary Fund. This means the country will be operating in deficits. Restriction rules by the GATT and WTO What happens when the world is in the face of financial crisis? Will a nation gain or lose if it restricts itself to the rul es outlined in the World Trade Organization? This has been a major challenge for about 153 partners of the multilateral trade system across the world. Free trade advocates free trade across the member countries.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Is International Trade a Zero Sum Game? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The member countries should operate within the limits of import duty taxes and tariffs levels laid down by the international bodies. However, do they keep to these promises? Anyway, most countries seem to deviate from these regulations. They resolve to protect their economy and this include their markets and industries thereon. In the case of financial crisis that took place in 30s, 70s and early 80s a country resolving to protection measures was not an issue to be addressed at international level unlike today. This was because international trade was not as free as it is today. Today, other members are k een to watch other countries actions during such economical hard times. International trade and economic crisis International trade has been the greatest contributing factor to the economic crisis that we recently experienced in the beginning of the year 2007. In the approach of this crisis, several companies that had some foreign subsidiaries went under. Enron and WorldCom had open business units in other countries such as the Power Plant in India. Indeed, operations of these subsidiaries are always dependent on politics that sometimes turns out to favor foreign companies (Fingerand Schuknecht, 1999). The fall of these huge companies, have impacts on other nations considering that their subsidiaries will fail to operate. This means losses of jobs and shares. For instance, the collapse of Lehman Brothers Incorporation had subsequent effect to whole the U.S.A. economy and the world in general. Other companies that had investment with Lehman were due to go under. It was only in the s upport of government in which congress passed a bailout package of 750 billion dollars that saw the economy stabilize to some extent. Otherwise, ripples of the economic crisis could have been stronger. Nevertheless, this was the strongest crisis ever since. The international trade volume contracted across all nations as most firms failed to operate. Protectionism measures The consequence of economic crisis is severe to individual countries. This is the time when economy is operating below the normal economic growth level. A country is faced with low GDP. This means the nation is under-producing given the economical resources available (Sachs Warner, 1995). A number of factors lead to this: first, the inflation rates are high and so the prices of commodities are somewhat high.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Therefore, industries are not able to produce many products to the consumers. Given that production costs are high and consumers’ income is constant, consumers will tend to buy less especially the so-called luxurious goods. As matter of fact, consumers are unable to save due to high cost of living. This forces financial institutions to lend at high interest rates and as a consequent, this pulls down the level of investments in the economy leading to the dragging of economical performance. In the midst of such problem, governments always seek new measures to intervene in the economy for its recovery. This may force the government to raise taxes for imports into the country with an aim of protecting domestic industries from the stiff competition of foreign companies. Raising taxes would make imports more expensive as compared to domestic products and therefore consumers will shy away from the foreign products. A country may sometimes put anti-dumping policies which will discour age import of cheap products from other economies. For instance, India had banned Chinese toys into its country for some period. Subsidies on the other hand, help industries to manufacture products at a lower operation cost than in the absent of subsidies such as loans. More so, the government will aim to apply labor-related measures to protect employment. The U.S.A. government was forced to reduce the stimulus taxes for the companies that had moved overseas with a view of maintaining jobs for its citizen. Some States will prefer to devalue their currency to encourage their export to other countries. Korean did it by allowing a depreciation of its currency by 19% against the USD. The Government might also come up with other measures such as quotas majorly on tariffs and export taxes among others. All these measures focus on protecting the economy from the harsh economic crisis. Protectionism measures and international trade agreements These measures of individuals’ economic p rotection are always against the agreement made at the international trade meetings (Sachs Warner, 1995). The G20 for instance had agreed on import taxes levels permissible for all the members. However, some member countries went against it in the year 2009 due to some negative implications resulting from such policies. As far as a country want to gain from the international trade, it also needs to protect its economy from the negative side of the international trade. Comparison of benefits and setbacks realized from participating in international trade The above discussions specifically points out advantages as well as disadvantages realized from participating in the international trade. This brings us to the topic of this piece of whether international trade is a zero sum game. Indeed, it is! This is because a country benefits on one side and loses on the other. A country gains in form of specialization. Any country would specialize in producing goods and services it can well. Thi s ensures it produces on large scale and therefore gains from the economies of scale such as low production costs. The nation is also assured of the market for its surplus. Nevertheless, this country is able to buy products it does not produce domestically from foreign countries at lower price than it would if locally manufactured. This advantage is mostly tagged as comparative advantage. Additionally, a nation is able to acquire imports from other countries at a low cost due to low taxes imposed by the foreign countries on the member states. It also avails a country with the variety of goods and services offered across the world (Bhagwati, 2004). Most importantly, developing nations are able to acquire technology from the industrialized countries. Conversely, international trade also suffers from a number of drawbacks. It is perceived to be unproductive especially during economic crisis. The free trade might harm ones economy. For instance, consider a country facing high production costs and at the same time, it is being dumped with cheap imports. Most probably its’ domestic industries would collapse because of the failure to keep up with tough competition emanating from foreign competitors. This would mean loss of jobs and the general contraction of the economic growth. Other disadvantages include loss of one’s culture through interaction of these nations during the trade. Conclusion Generally, international trade has both advantages and disadvantages that end up cancelling each other leading to almost zero benefit realization. Therefore, protectionism measures would not help, as other nations would take retaliatory measures. This might include high taxes on its exports among others. Moreover, having closed economy would be dangerous as country cannot be self sufficient in providing resources to its citizen. References Bhagwati, J. (2004). In Defense of globalization. New York, NY: Oxford University Press Fingerand, K. Schuknecht, L. (1999).Tr ade, finance and financial crisis, special studies 3. Geneva: World trade Organization Publisher. Sachs, J. Warner, A. (1995). Economic reforms and the process of global integration. Brooking Paper on Economic Activity, 2, 1-118.

High Stake Testing Example

High Stake Testing Example High Stake Testing – Coursework Example High stake testing March 16, High stake testing Provisions of the No Child Left Behind policy that expanded regulations on education promises improved academic performance and achievement of the underlying goal of alleviating poverty. Changes that the policy induces, such as specified testing, defined expected improvements, and withheld federal funding to states that do not implement the policy, motivate realization of the goals. Offered approaches for defining Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and the possibility of integrating the approaches in assessments facilitate reliability and validity of assessment results. Even though each of the methods has disadvantages, advantages of one approach may counter a disadvantage of the other approaches. Integrating the fixed standards approach with the cross-sectional approach, for example, resolves insensitivity to differences between schools that the fixed standards suffers. The identified challenges of AYP are also practical to implementation of the policy. Goals that are too high or too low and ones that are not responsive fail to motivate stakeholders towards desired achievements. Insensitivity to special needs and existence of corruption are also likely to undermine objectives. Identified unintended consequences of high stake testing are also real and necessary measures for managing them are necessary. Developing too high standards high may shift educator’s attention to improving test results and not quality of education or may prompt corrupt practices for avoiding penalties. Moderating efforts such as informing stakeholders of the scope of large-scale tests, strategies for achieving desired results, and offering psychological support can however ensure integrity in implementation of the AYP provisions (Braden and Schroeder, N.d.). Based on the knowledge in AYP provisions, I believe that counselors should play multi-dimensional role that include communicating for awareness and offering leadership for ensuring t hat stakeholders’ acts are consistent with the provisions and expectations. ReferenceBraden, J. and Schroeder, J. (N.d.). High-stake testing and No Child Left Behind: Information and strategies for educators. National Association of School Psychologists. Retrieved from: nasponline.org/communications/spawareness/highstakes.pdf.

Examination of The Little Matchstick Girl

Examination of The Little Matchstick Girl First published in 1845, The Little Match Girl by  Hans Christian Anderson  is a story about a young impoverished girl trying to sell matches on the street on New Years Eve who is afraid to go home without selling enough for fear of an abusive father. This tragic short story paints a dismal picture of life for the poor in the 1840s but also carries with it that grim hope of a fairy tale with visions of huge Christmas trees and shooting stars appearing before the young match girl- her dying wishes and dreams. The Harsh Realities of Poverty Andersons The Little Match Girl is not far from classic fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm- they both share a certain darkness to their content, a melancholic and an often morbid obsession with consequences for actions or for merely existing. Its an often studied piece in academic circles. In The Little Match Girl, Andersons titular character dies by the end of the piece, but the story is much more about the perseverance of hope. In these sparse, unforgiving lines, Hans Christian Andersen packs so much simple beauty and hope: The girl is cold, barefoot, and poor- without a friend in the world (it seems)- but she is not without hope. She dreams of warmth and light, of a time when she will be surrounded by love, and filled with happiness. Its so far outside of the realm of her current experience that most of us would have long since given up such dreams, but she holds on. Still, the harsh realities of poverty haunt the little girls reality- she must sell a match for fear of being beaten by her father upon returning home and this fear propels her to stay outside all night, which ultimately leads to her death by hypothermia. Lessons and Adaptations Thanks to its brevity and delicate approach to the topic of death, The Little Match Girl serves as a great tool, like most fairy tales, to teach children important lessons about the tougher topics in life like death and loss as well as social issues like poverty and charity. We may not want to think about the horrible things that happen every day, and its certainly hard to explain such things to our children. It does seem, though, that we can often learn the greatest lessons from the children- in how they deal with the most hopeless situations. In those final moments, this little girl sees visions of splendor. She sees hope. But, her passing- punctuated by the shooting of a star in the night sky- is tragic and troubling. Fortunately, there have also been many adaptations of this short piece by Hans Christian Anderson including several animated and live action short films which provide an easier way for children to access the themes of this brilliant short work of fiction.

The Susquehanna Indian Tribe of Pennsylvania Essay

The Susquehanna Indian Tribe of Pennsylvania - Essay Example A great deal of the early history of the American continent has been lost thanks to the annihilation of great Indian nations such as the Susquehanna, forcing us to examine other tribes for clues as to their way of life. In early 17th century, three distinctive groups of Indian tribes, representing three different linguistic stocks, occupied the region that is now Virginia. Along the coast were many settlements of the Algonquian group, the Powhatan confederacy, enemy of the Siouan stock composed of the Monacan and Manahoac groups that spread from the banks of the upper James and the headwaters of the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers to the Allegheny Mountains (UV, 2006). The bellicose and scattered Iroquoian stock was represented by the Conestoga or Susquehanna tribe of about 600 able warriors that lived in palisaded towns to defend themselves from the Massawomeckes. The six Susquehanna towns are Sasquesahanough, Quadroque, Attaock, Tesinigh, Utchowig, and Cepowig; the earlier names obviously conventionalized forms of the original native terms (AG, 2006). Ever since, the Susquehannock apparently had been in good alliance with the Huron. It was probable they migrated to the Susquehanna Valley from the north. The earliest town sites recognized as Susquehannock were sited on the upper Susquehanna River and date from about 1550, but they probably had occupied the region for at least four hundred years before this. Even though they inflicted a major defeat on the Mohawk shortly before 1600, conflicts with the Iroquois had by 1570 forced the Susquehannock south into the lower Susquehanna Valley. Toughened by years of constant warfare, they besieged the Algonquin tribes along the shores of Chesapeake Bay and began extending their control southward. The first European contact with the Susquehannock was in 1608 when Captain John Smith an explorer from Jamestown was traveling the northern end of Chesapeake Bay (Shovel, 2006). The Powhatan also knew the Susquehannock from painful experience, and when the English first established Virginia, the Powhatan had placed their villages well-inland to defend them from Susquehannock war parties that ranged the coastline by canoes. One basis the Powhatan were not completely conflicting to English settlement at first was that they provided additional defense, but the Susquehannock still attacked the Powhatan villages in northern Virginia during 1610 (Cadzow, 1936). III. During the early 1600s, drawn by the potential profits from furs, other Europeans came to the New World. Friendly dealings with the Susquehannock were particularily valuable to the French, not just for the purposes of trade, but because they fascinated the Iroquois between two powerful enemies. Unluckily, the new coalition alarmed Dutch traders on the Hudson River, and they vigorously supported the Mohawk in 1615 against the Susquehannock. Even though they were relatively few in number and isolated by their inland location, the Susquehannock managed to turn out to be an important trading partner with all of the competing European powers. As well handicapped by their

Consumer behavior Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Consumer behavior - Assignment Example Her decision to buy a specific vehicle was influenced by several important qualities she demanded in a new vehicle. The car had to be safe, extremely fuel efficient, comfortable, with a stellar reputation for safety, reliability and low repair costs among current owners and professionals alike. As a working mother she needs a reliable, fuel efficient and inexpensive to insure vehicle to commute and be able to depend on her vehicle for everyday errands and for fun. After interviewing her and finding what her true wants and needs are we came to the conclusion that her need for a good looking, roomy, reliable vehicle with low operating costs outweighed all other attributes like performance, status or size of the vehicle. In her case the 10 year/100,000 mile power train warranty offered by Hyundai for all their vehicles was the best in the industry and provided the peace of mind and reliability she was after. Today’s customers often seek reliability on the products they buy, but l ike all other major purchases the product has to speak to the customer. Her main concern and true high-level need was â€Å"peace of mind†, having an efficient, comfortable and brand new reliable vehicle he can depend on for work and fun for years to come coupled with the exceptional warranty achieved her goal. The desire and higher-level motivation to being â€Å"in control† and not have to rely on friends or family for transportation weighted heavily on her decision to purchase the Elantra. The always popular and reliable 2012 Toyota Corolla was a close second vehicle which she could afford based on her budget, but the corolla was more expensive similarly equipped and did not provide the same warranty as Hyundai. Another higher-level need which was fulfilled with the purchase of the Hyundai was need for safety and freedom a dependable vehicle provides to the owner. B) Their brands and specific model attributes chosen from Hyundai and Toyota played a major role in dec iding which older Japanese economy vehicle provided the best historical reliability rating, lowest overall investment costs and resale price. C) The marketing department for both Hyundai and Toyota can learn from this example in order to benefit their brands as a whole. Marketing professionals can utilize the gamma of available information from credible professional reviews, long-term consumer and expert tests and long- term reliability ratings and reviews from thousands of owners to better create a true picture of the company and their products and how consumers perceive their brands. Both companies can use consumer data to compile databases which can help provide objective data for comparative and statistical analysis about their products and the competition. Hyundai has made strides forward becoming one of America's favorite car brands and even the automotive giant Toyota can learn a few lessons from an up and coming brand like Hyundai. Marketing managers can also gain insights a bout the public perception of their products, the subjective factors that drive consumer decision making, as well as their overall brand image. In conclusion the brand's historical ratings, reputation, innovation, exceptional value and warranty of their products are the main factors that came into play when deciding to buy a replacement vehicle for this consumer. Whether you are evaluating a brand new 2013 Hyundai Elentra or 2013 Toyota Corolla the same factors come into play when making the

The Importance of Nature to Spirituality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Importance of Nature to Spirituality - Essay Example Writers following this tradition sought to find meaning within the natural world that seemed lost within the created world of the humans. However, the way they did this changed depending on their position in time and space. Blake lived from 1757 to 1827 and saw the beginning of the industrial revolution and the growth of the factories. He was aware of the dangers of this growth and saw some of the destruction it brought about, but he lived in England where some of the cities had already had long histories and the erosion of nature didn't seem so dramatic as places such as America where much of the land was still relatively untamed and all of the architecture was new. Wordsworth was an American poet who lived from 1770-1850. The changes that were taking place in America were similar to those happening in Europe, but seemed more dramatic. Both of these poets worked within the same literary movement to emphasize the importance of nature in poems such as "Tyger" and "The World is Too Muc h With Us" respectively. In poems such as "Tyger," Blake focuses on his own individual way of seeing the world and on the emotions these investigations brought out. This is in keeping with the then emerging Romantic movement which placed a great deal of emphasis on emotional feeling, particularly as it was inspired by nature. This emphasis on emotional feeling is seen in "Tyger" as Blake starts the poem with two exclamatory statements: "Tyger! Tyger!" (1) and infuses them with a strong image in the darkness of the reader's mind: "burning bright / In the forests of the night" (1-2). Most of the poem is written with the intention of creating a sense of awe around the creature that is the focal point of the poem and continues to force the reader's attention on this concept. The tiger's features are described in deadly but beautiful detail, "In what distant deeps or skies / Burnt the fire of thine eyes?" (5-6), in such a way as to constantly focus the attention on its emotional impact. At the same time, these statements are phrased in the form of rhetorical questions that naturally cause the mind to start trying to answer them and thus considering the images more carefully. This same emphasis on the emotions is found in Wordsworth's poem as he opens his poem with a sense, a feeling, that there is something missing in the new modern life of the cities. "The world is too much with us; late and soon, / Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers" (1-2). Before the reader is even certain what it is that Wordsworth is talking about, it is clear that he is feeling a sense of emptiness in daily life and a sense of having little energy or interest in this life. This is also in keeping with his personal times. Although Blake was writing at a time when the industrial revolution was having the same effect on his homeland as Wordsworth, Wordsworth wrote in a place where it seemed the factories and cities were taking over all of the natural beauty of the world, burying it un der concrete. It seemed inevitable to most writers of his time and he rightly mourns the loss. He says "We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon! / ... / For this, for everything, we are out of tune" (4, 8). Although Blake's creation is filled with the profound emotion of awe, Wordsworth's demonstrates a profound sense of loss. However, both poets discover a sense of natural feeling inherent in the images they produce for their readers and both keep this emotion at the forefront of their poems. Within his poem, Blake focuses on an element of the ‘supernatural’ as something that existed outside the realm of everyday experience, another key characteristic of

Transfer admission essay for University of Pittsburgh

Transfer admission for University of Pittsburgh - Essay Example I have resided in Johnstown, Pennsylvania for the majority of my life. The small town charm and characteristics helped nurture me throughout the years. While the town’s features and residents have shaped my current lifestyle, I yearn to live among individuals from various cultures and backgrounds. These individuals are a pivotal part of Pittsburgh’s alluring framework. Since psychology is my desired major, being exposed to a motley of perspectives and behaviors is vital while performing research. Interaction with diversified groups will strengthen my psychological knowledge of human activity. Also, my peers at main campus are not only friends, but resources as well. Being part of a larger class means having more people to learn from. All in all, being a psychology student in Pittsburgh will allow me to evaluate the differing viewpoints of various individuals and will help me to discover ethical issues affecting society. The same will also be very intriguing as I have al ways wanted to involve myself in solving the ethical issues in the society and what better platform than the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to cultural diversity, the amount of educational opportunities at the University of Pittsburgh is unlimited. Seeing that psychology encompasses a vast domain, there are many aspects of which it is comprised. While the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown does offer the psychology major, I feel that the reputable main campus will offer more in terms of exploring subfields and research. While I have not yet decided upon which subfield strikes my interest, studying at the University of Pittsburgh will help direct me towards the proper subfield. Not only is the main campus renowned for its prestigious history, but the option for graduate studies are also imperative to my future. In addition to this, the University of Pittsburgh will also serve as an ideal platform for pursuing my further studies and I have always envisaged a

A Case Study on Ethics Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

A on Ethics - Case Study Example In this case study which was based on a real time incident of New Orleans the major ethical issue was that the police officers did not take the right action and was carried away in emotion for their fellow officer. As per morality the most appropriate approach in this situation would have been to ensure proper treatment for Archie and then execute the judgment made by legal bodies. However this form of action was highly ignored by police officials and they preferred to brutally beat Archie for the crime he had committed. Often in such criminal cases it is observed that homicide or rather encounter is considered to be the best solution but ethically it can be stated as the harshest judgment towards an individual. The form of shootout which had taken place in New Orleans is common in that region and there are many cases as that of Archie where criminals are brutally killed by police officers so as to ensure that there is proper elimination of crime from the region (Turvey & Crowder 104 ). The major factual issue which has been identified in the case was Archie had committed wrong and he was being penalized for that, but it raises ethical issues because officers in order to do justice for their team member did not give the necessary medication to Archie which he required. In this particular scenario there is couple of actions which could have been taken by police officials so as to avoid any such violation of ethics. The first action could have been taking Archie to the nearest hospital so that he can survive.

Transfer admission essay for University of Pittsburgh

Transfer admission for University of Pittsburgh - Essay Example I have resided in Johnstown, Pennsylvania for the majority of my life. The small town charm and characteristics helped nurture me throughout the years. While the town’s features and residents have shaped my current lifestyle, I yearn to live among individuals from various cultures and backgrounds. These individuals are a pivotal part of Pittsburgh’s alluring framework. Since psychology is my desired major, being exposed to a motley of perspectives and behaviors is vital while performing research. Interaction with diversified groups will strengthen my psychological knowledge of human activity. Also, my peers at main campus are not only friends, but resources as well. Being part of a larger class means having more people to learn from. All in all, being a psychology student in Pittsburgh will allow me to evaluate the differing viewpoints of various individuals and will help me to discover ethical issues affecting society. The same will also be very intriguing as I have al ways wanted to involve myself in solving the ethical issues in the society and what better platform than the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to cultural diversity, the amount of educational opportunities at the University of Pittsburgh is unlimited. Seeing that psychology encompasses a vast domain, there are many aspects of which it is comprised. While the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown does offer the psychology major, I feel that the reputable main campus will offer more in terms of exploring subfields and research. While I have not yet decided upon which subfield strikes my interest, studying at the University of Pittsburgh will help direct me towards the proper subfield. Not only is the main campus renowned for its prestigious history, but the option for graduate studies are also imperative to my future. In addition to this, the University of Pittsburgh will also serve as an ideal platform for pursuing my further studies and I have always envisaged a

Some questions on Shpping Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Some questions on Shpping - Essay Example This has made possible the process of 'outsourcing' reach new levels. Now many countries where the manufacturing costs are high have outsourced the manufacture to countries where the cost is relatively low and then re-imported back into the country. And with freight rates being relatively low, now companies source raw materials from one country, export it to another country where it is processed and finally sold in another country. This has caused the international trade to increase from 0.55bt in 1950 to 4.3bt in 1995 an 8-fold increase. For the transport of crude oil we would use a Crude Oil Tanker such as a ULCC with a capacity of up to 500,000t DWT since we want to transport as much crude oil in a single journey as possible due to high demands. For the transport of grains, we would use a Dry Bulk Cargo ship such as the handymax or the panamax. They are the most economical to build, and therefore the freight rates offered would be low allowing for the commodities to be traded at economical rates. For the domestic air-conditioners, we would use a container ship. ... For the transport of iron ore we can also use a Dry Bulk Cargo ship but with a much higher DWT such as those found on the Capesize. For the domestic air-conditioners, we would use a container ship. The advantage offered would be that transport costs would be low; the goods can safely stored on board the ship and can easily and quickly be loaded and discharged. 3) How is the simplicity of design of the dry bulk carrier relevant to the fact that it carries law value cargo A3) Dry Bulk carriers mostly transport cargoes of low value which would have very few specialised needs. This would mean that the design of the Dry Bulk carrier would not require many special additions as compared to other ships which carry specialised cargoes such Crude Oil Tankers or Reefers. This would translate into lower costs in terms of manufacturing, which would mean lower investments for the ship owners. This advantage would be seen in that; the freight rate of a Dry Bulk Carrier would be a lot lower as compared to a Tanker. And since most of the cargoes transported by these ships are of low values that would mean that the profits would not be as high and therefore the need to transport the goods at economical costs. 4) What are "flags of convenience" How have they changed over the last decades How have classification societies and IACS influenced their developments A4) 'Flags of convenience' is when a ship is registered in one country but is owned by a party present in another country. Under international maritime laws, the country where a ship is registered in determines the regulations to be applied upon the ship irrespective of the country of origin of the ship's owner. As many countries have become stricter and labour costs have risen, many ship owners register their ships in

Technological society Essay Example for Free

Technological society Essay Nowadays, in a highly technological society, human productivity is made more efficient through the development of electronic gadgets. Now, with the advent of such modernization in education, one way to globalize the process of research is to realize that technology is advancing at an incredibly fast pace. Computers are not confined to being used for entertainment but its role in education is also vast. In School, reading materials are stored in libraries. Library is a place in which books and related materials are kept for use but not for sale. It is also organized for use and maintained by a public body, an institution or a private individual. In addition, it is a place in which we get information in any format and from many sources. The librarian has to keep the room neat so that it is conducive for learning. The librarian is also the person who is liable for monitoring all the books that are borrowed and returned by the borrowers. The proponents will propose the Simple Library System for Benigno Aquino Jr. High School Annex located at Bagong Silang Caloocan City. The Head Librarian stated that they are currently using the Dewey Decimal Library System. They are still utilizing a manual system. The library users and the librarian still use card catalogues in searching for reading materials and use index card for the records of borrowed and returned books. The proponent’s study was what is which encounter to the Library by the user, Librarian and how the Owner or the Administrator of the said school will provide a good service to their clients to have a good feedback. The study will focus on transaction which done inside the Library like borrowing, returning of books by students, faculties and staffs. In this area, the usage of computerized library system is needed because it is more easy and obviously it saves paper compare to the manual library and it saves a lot more time. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY The proponents choose the Benigno Aquino Jr. High School, Located at Phase 3 Bagong Silang Caloocan City. Simple Library System is a process of organizing important information, used to track items borrowed and the scheduled time of returning. This system helps users or people who responsible in recording the data appropriately, it also saves time and more convenient to use than the traditional manual recording. Lack of library system in a school can lead to chaos and troubles, and because of it the librarian is having a problem to serve each students and faculties who wish to use the library. It is extremely useful in the school to use that automated system. From this simple term paper. The librarian can easily monitor the transactions of every students. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The part of documentation states the purpose or the objective of the proponents in developing their proposed system. It is divided into two parts, the General Objective, which is the objective of the study as a whole and the Specific Objectives, a much defined and detailed enumeration of the objective of the proponents. General Objectives Aside from developing an easier way of evaluating the library, this study aims to improve the system and making it more accessible for both students and faculty. Specific Objectives The following are the list of specific objectives of the proponents in developing this system: 1. To upgrade the style or method of the library they have. 2. To lessen the time consumed. 3. To provide a more reliable and effective library system. 4. To provide a faster way of their transactions.

Porters Five Forces Model of Competitive Advantage

Porters Five Forces Model of Competitive Advantage The aim of this paper is to critically analyse Porters 5-Forces framework and the concept of the Resource-Based view (RBV) which originated from Wernerfelt (1984) to develop strategy as a source of competitive advantage. A comparative analysis between the two approaches is undertaken. This paper further attempt to contrast the two frameworks taking into consideration what researchers have identified throughout the development of both theories. The methodology applied to approach this paper commences by briefly defining both concepts and their focus of attention. The analysis then identifies common elements found in both theories supported by diverse researchers opinions and views. This section undertakes a critical approach which serves a primary need to reach the objectives of the paper. The paper then proceeds with an essential critique of fundamental differences between the two approaches under investigation. Specific uncomplimentary elements are identified within both framework and which are critically expounded. The paper concludes with a discussion on what could be the future of both theories and their contribution towards strategy formulation for organisations to gain competitive advantage. The Key Elements of Porters and RBV Theories It is pertinent to define briefly the key elements of both theoretical frameworks on which this paper will based to carry out a critical and contrast analysis. Porters 5-Forces The theory originating from industrial economics forms part of the classical perspectives of strategies developed throughout the last fourty years of the twentieth century (Whittington 2001). Porter (1980), specialising on competitive strategy, designed a model of five competitive forces, to assess the attractiveness of the industry via which the corporate strategy can effectively capitalise on both present and emerging market opportunities. This model serves as an indispensible tool in critically analysing both the structure and dynamics of the industry in which the organisation pertains (Fortenberry 2009). These five forces incorporate the threat of new entrants and substitute products or services to the industry on a horizontal dimension and the vertical dimensions of suppliers and customers bargaining powers. Both dimensions intersect on the fifth force consisting of the rivalry amongst current competitors in the industry (Porter 1980:4). The theory claims that profitability is h ighest when competition is lower and that competition erodes profits (ibid). It further sustains that some competition should be avoided and the theorist gives advice on how firms can maximize profits through maintaining or changing fundamental industry structures. However, empirical investigation has failed to support the link between industry structure and profitability (Grant 1991:117). Furthermore, Grove (1996) claims that government strategic forces are ignored in Porters theory. The Resource -Based View The RBV framework designed by Wernerfelt (1984), is essential to assess strength and weaknesses within a business concern so as to engineer a strategic competitive advantage. Wernerfelt (cited in UoL 2009:65) advocated, that Sustainable competitive advantages are conferred by resources which are hard to imitate and scarce relative to their economic value. The RBV strategic theory links resources, capabilities, competitive advantage and profitability and their synergistic combination, ensures a sustainable competitive advantage to the firm (Grant 1991). Theorists such as Fahy and Smithee (1999) remarked that the development of this framework took a step forward when diverse strategists became bored with Porters 5-forces theory, and found possible alternatives in the RBV theory. Grant (1991) claims that this theory can be appropriately applied in the development of robust long tern strategies. Primarily the RBV is focused on the maximisation of resources to economically perform efficie ntly and fulfill customer requirements. It is not surprising that this theory has its critics. Hooley et al. (1998) disagrees with this theoretical approach by arguing that due to its internal focal point it jeopardises the importance of external market requirements. Furthermore, Grant (1991) implies that little effort has been done to provide practical applications of the RBV which brought him to develop his 5-stages approach to strategy analysis. Common elements in both Porters and RBV frameworks Diverse researchers such as Spanos and Lioukas (2001) claimed that both Porters and RBVs perspectives on strategic formulation are similar. Firstly, they both assume that regular higher profits are possible to achieve and secondly both approaches attempt to define the term competitive advantage (ibid). Conversely, one can notice that both theories have contradicting and differing definitions of competitive advantage Grant (1991). This is further supported by claims made by Fahy and Smithee (1999) that both theoretical frameworks could have elements of vagueness and uncertainty in their methodology and both are obscure in their pragmatic approach. Both theorists have been criticised for their stagnant approach towards the strategy development which in its originality is definitely ever-changing (Dickson cited in Fahy and Smithee (1999). Porters and Wernefelts approaches to strategy development for competitive advantage were critised by various researches for their lack of practical applications when strategic managers formulated their strategies to combat competition (Conner 1991; Grant 1991; Foss 1996). Besides, there is little evidence on to what extent both theories assist managers to take strategic decisions (Bridoux n.d.). Fundamental Differences between Porters 5-Forces and RBV The RBV and Porters framework, endorse a number of differences. Porters 5-forces (1980) model adopts a macroeconomic perspective of the industry whilst the RBV approach focuses on the micro perspective of the firms resources. Foss (1996) claims that Porter failed to assess the businesses potential of exploiting their resources so as to effectively implement their strategic plan. Furthermore, researchers such as Bridoux (n.d.:7) claims that In Porters framework, the accumulation of resources is part of the implementation of the strategy dictated by conditions and constraints in the external environment. This is in contrast with RBVs framework where managers apply their resources and capabilities to lead organisations to competitive advantage over their rivals. Therefore, one can argue that Porters theory ignored the potential of the use of internal resources to determine strategies. Although the RBV can be applied tactfully so as to assess both resources and capabilities, however, it focuses simply on the internal infrastructure of the organisation. Conversely, Porters model adopts a wider macroeconomic perspective, capitalising on an outside approach. The nature of performance that an organisation can attain marks also a fundamental distinction when contrasting Wernerfelt and Porters theories. On reviewing the RBV, it transpires that it represents efficiency in terms of how the business resources perform to maximise their over-capacity and in the meantime satisfy customer demand. In contrast, Porters approach focuses on the ability of the firm to exploit the monopolistic benefits of the market that differentiate between industries performance (Conner 1991). Besides the contrasting disagreements between both theoretical frameworks mentioned above, Foss (1996) claimed that the RBV approach is focused on long term strategy and can be applied to identify potential hazards by assessing opponents resources and capabilities. Conversely, Porters framework is oriented towards the external environment in terms of the short run with concepts such as commitment, signaling, the role played by exit barriers (Foss cited in Bridoux n.d:6). Uncomplimentary Elements within Porters 5 -Forces and RBV Frameworks The author of this paper identified various elements within both frameworks and which are uncomplimentary to each other. These are critically anaylsed. This paper approach will contribute to the comparative analysis undertaken and furthermore enhance the contrasting discussion of the two models under investigation. One of the characteristics that is claimed to be found in the RBV by Barney et al. (2001) is that an entrepreneurs can be illuminated through this theory as they can value their resources as a competitive advantage over their rivals. One can argue that the term entrepreneurial knowledge can be by far easily associated with the RBV approach rather than Porters framework. With respect to emerging markets, RBV research has been important in suggesting that local firms are interested in using foreign alliances to acquire advantages over their domestic rivals, in emphasising the importance of network ties as an intangible resource for entrepreneurial start-up and in understanding the changing benefits of unrelated diversification as economic institution develop. (Barney et al. 2001:630). Other diverse researchers advocate that the RBV can assist firms to evaluate competitive advantage through an ethical approach by applying Corporate Social Responsibility in theory strategy formulation (Russo and Fouts cited in Barney et al. 2001). Besides, one cannot ignore what Powell and Dent-Micallef (cited in Barney et al.2001) remarked that the human resource skills combined with the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can play an important role within organisations to enable them to compete. A prominent and complimentary element of the ethics and ICT approaches found in the RBVs framework and which is not found in Porters theory is the contribution towards the appreciation of strategic Human Resources Management (HRM) (Wright et al. cited in Barney et al. 200l). Supporters of RBVs theory claim that the approach towards the perceived benefits of using human resources practices can be used by firms as a competitive weapon. However, Barney remarked that: As yet research has failed to test empirically whether HRM practices are path dependent, casually ambiguous, or imitable. Similarly, there is a lack of evidence that HRM practices impact the skills and behaviour of the workforce, or that these factors are linked to performance. (Barney et al. 2001:628) Moreover, Grant (1991:119) when referring to the association of HRM with the RBV framework remarks that probably the most strategically important resources of the firm can be highly vulnerable because they are mobile and can be attracted by competitors. There are even some conflicting views by different authors whether Porters framework appreciates the role of industry co-operation when determining strategies. For example, Bridoux (n.d.:5) claimed that Porter 1980s work is that it over emphasises competition to the detriment of co-operation. Conversely, Aubert and Morel Guimaraes (n.d.) states that Porters embraces a strategic approach towards co-operation between industries. In fact, quoting Aubert and Morel Guimaraes (n.d.:5) Porter argues that by strategy of cooperation, the companies achieve a stronger positioning together than they would in individual, in isolation. Conclusion Throughout this critical assessment of both theories, it emerged with a degree of certainty that Porters theory greatly differs from the RBV approach as it is focused on industry rather than on the organisations resources. Also, it can be concluded that both strategic frameworks are focused towards achieving profitable maximisation through competitive advantage. However the RBV recommends the use of resources to achieve this goal whilst Porter approach uses the ability of the industry to position itself appropriately within its competitive forces. Surprisingly, this paper found out that theories have been critised for their severe practicality limitations. Imai (n.d.) advocated that Each organisation is a collection of unique resources and capabilities that provides the basis of its strategy and the primary source of its returns. However, from a critical perspective, the author of this paper concludes that although the performance of an organisation is determined by its unique resources and capabilities, the industrys structural characteristics cannot be granted secondary consideration.

Essay --

Main Problems Ryanair is the leading carrier by passenger numbers and market capitalization in Europe by 2010. The challenges Ryanair is faced with could be divided into two areas. Macroeconomic Environment The unfavourable economic conditions in 2008 limited Ryanair’s opportunity to raise fares, in the event of continued global recession, Ryanair’s passenger volume growth would be restricted: Passengers would reduce the spending on leisure and business travels for saving money. Also, the cost of aviation fuel is another element would effect Ryanair’s profitability. In view of fact that accessibility of oil decreases, global demand increases, and the unpredictable exchange rate, the Ryanair model, i.e., to be as low-cost, would be difficult for Ryanair itself. Furthermore, the controversial advertisements of Ryanair besmeared the firm’s reputation. Ryanair reduces it advertising costs and relying on cheap PR. Because it used a photograph of Spanish Queen Sofia without authority, the firm was forced to pay a fine to the Queen and made a public apology. These controversial advertisements were beneficial to the expansion of the brand at beginning, however the offensive theme would subsequently risky to the company’s image. Interior of Ryanair The relationship between employees and Ryanair was negative. Ryanair providing humble working conditions for employees and refuse to recognise unions. According to the case study, the Irish High Court ruled Ryanair had bullied pilots to accept new contracts in July 2006. The pressures come from pilots over their desire for higher wage and better working conditions. In 2009, only 11 out of the 64 pilots who decided to stay with the company. Thus, Ryanair would struggle to avoid recognisin... ...ative feeling of ‘from nowhere to nowhere’. For services of the value chain, the cost could be saved by becoming a no frills and low fares carrier. However, the low quality services might destroy Ryanair’s public reputation. Under primary activities-marketing & sales and support activities- the technology development, Ryanair spreads accommodation as well as car rentals news through its official website. In 2010, its website ranked 12th by number of visits for e-tailers in the UK. The cost of travel agents and advertising could be kept in a minimum level. However, the heavy dependence on the official website might be a potential risk for Ryanair. As a consequence, the value chain helps Ryanair to think of itself in terms of sets of activities, to identify its particular competitive advantages and weaknesses thus enhance value or decrease cost in value activities.

Poor Living Conditions and Ill Health Essay -- Social Issues, Minimum

Introduction Over the past quarter century there has been a growing body of support for the importance of understanding the relationship between poor living conditions and ill-health. These conditions have been referred to as the social determinants of health. There has been a strong push amongst policy makers to study the non-medical determinants of health as opposed to the traditional narrow way of thinking with regards to medical treatments or lifestyle choices (Mikkonen, Raphael 2010). Income and income distribution is thought to be the most important of the social determinants of health because it further influences other social determinants of health for example, low-income families are forced to live under circumstances of material and social deprivation which make it very difficult for families to be able to afford the basic necessities of life such as food, clothing and housing (Kekkonen, Raphael 2010). Studies have shown that suicide rates and the onset of many diseases such as diab etes and heart disease is significantly more prevalent amongst low income Canadians than there more affluent counter-parts. One policy that has often been implemented by governments as a means to alleviate poverty and to increase income equality is the minimum wage policy. There has been an ongoing debate over whether increasing the minimum wage is an effective policy to alleviate poverty in society and provide a more equal distribution of wealth or, if it has further negative implications on the working poor due to the effects that minimum wage policies have on employment and the job market. This paper will explore the historical background of the minimum wage and discuss the reasons for its establishment. Both sides to the argument... ...inimum wages when set to meet or exceed Statistics Canada’s Low Income Cut-Off can help ensure that all workers receive at least a fair and just wage for their labour (Goldberg, green 1999). One’s level of income determines their overall living conditions and this determines a number of other social determinants of health such as food security or housing. Inappropriate minimum wages and income inequalities lead to material and social deprivation which further leads to poor health because the basic needs for health such as food, clothing and housing cannot be afforded. Policies to reduce poverty such as increasing minimum wages appropriately to meet the true costs of living needs to be addressed by governments and policy makers immediately and this will also help to alleviate cost pressures on our healthcare system (Raphael, Mikkonen).

John Dewey and early childhood education Essay

â€Å"Education is not preparation for life. Education is life itself. † – John Dewey (1859-1952) (Ministry of Education, Singapore, 2003) The set of Desired Outcomes of Pre-school Education that the Ministry of Education(MOE) had put together in 2003 highlighted the significant importance of pre-school education being the platform for lifelong learning. It’s intention were far beyond preparation of these children merely for Primary School curriculum (Wong,2000). Very much alike to John Dewey (Dewey)’s quote, MOE’s take on pre-school education exists similar context. I felt that it challenges the perceived notion that education is only about getting the necessary qualifications or securing a good job. However, with an open mind, education in fact occurs throughout life. This brings about a few educational principles of Dewey which had influenced me in my workings with children in a pre-school setting. I felt that the central concept of Dewey’s view of education was that there should be greater emphasis on allowing children develop problem solving skills, critical thinking skills, and being able to make decisions on their own, rather than simply on the memorization of lessons. Through real life experiences, instead of merely being on the receiving end of secondhand information, children were able to develop the required skills effectively (Seefeldt and Barbour, 1998). Active learning has been widely advocated in my child care centre. I often incorporate and encourage it too. Let’s say I will be teaching on the theme of occupation and doctors are the topic of the week. For the younger age group like pre-nursery and nursery, I would provide real materials like a doctor play set. Children would be encouraged to explore these materials at their own pace and interests. They would be able to experience how it feels like being a doctor and thereafter get an insight of what a doctor’s work scope is about. Concurrently, they would be exposed to the instruments that a doctor uses. I would also ask children open ended questions like â€Å"What does a doctor do? Which tool do you think a doctor uses to hear your heartbeat? If you are a doctor, how would you hear my heartbeat? †. I believe  that such open ended question encourages children to construct their own understanding of concepts. I would also drop hints and attempt to spur their interest when children become uninterested and seem clueless. On top of these activities, for the kindergarten classes, I would introduce a â€Å"Doctor of the day† where the child would, alongside the teacher, assist in the daily temperature taking of children. This way they would understand the concept of what is taken to be ill and what is not, and also who should they visit at times when they fall sick. I would also liaise with a nearby clinic and bring the children on a trip, getting the doctor to assist in giving the children a short demonstration of a regular consultation in the clinic. The children will not only be able to see how a clinic setting is like, they will also be able to pose questions to the doctor to find out more. Following which, I would plan for a clinic role play where children are free to express their own interpretation and ideas of a being a doctor. In tie with Dewey’s avocation of active learning, this concept of learning has been strongly supported by the local context too. In the Code of Ethics, professionals are obliged to promote and encourage children to be actively involved regardless of ability (Association for Early Childhood Educators, Singapore, 2005). Dewey also advocated that the school is a social institution (Flanagan, 1994). He believed that through social interaction with adults and peers, learning would be further reinforced (Henniger, 2002). Communication with peers or adults allows children to think, process their thoughts into verbal words and therefore encourages and stimulates a child’s thinking. Interactive learning is also vital to social development. Being able to develop a positive and satisfying relationship with peers and adults is crucial for effective social interaction and is often a focus of pre-school programs (Early Childhood Teachers’ Association, 2003). In my workings with children, I have realized the important role social interaction plays in a child’s development. Children across all pre-school levels enjoy talking and interacting with each other over their thoughts, opinions and experiences. One way I encourage this is by planning for problem solving in group discussions. For instance, the kindergarten children would be issued a problem at the start of the day: â€Å"What are the features of an insect? † They would then be divided into groups to explore the problem by going into the various learning centres I have set up toacquire the information. This can be followed up by bringing the children on a field trip to the Botanical Garden where children are able explore on the topic and make drawings and notes on their observations as a group. At the end of the day, they would discuss about their gatherings again in groups, and then present their findings. Other than learning how to function as a member of a group, children would also be able to learn cooperative skills and conflict resolution through the activity. Besides peer interaction, adult interaction plays an equally important role. In the Assessment of Licensing Standards in child care centre, staffs are to encourage interaction with children in order for children to be able to understand self and others (Ministry of Community Development and Sports, 2003). In the pre-nursery and nursery classes, I take time to listen, make eye contact and respond to children. This makes children feel comfortable and it motivates them to interact more with adults. I would also plan for activities like dough play and painting on large papers where children are able to proceed with the activity together. Through such activities, they are able to discuss, comment and communicate with each other too. I would also ask questions like, â€Å"What do you think Clarisse has molded? Does it look like a sandwich? † which allows for creative thoughts to be expressed and interaction to take place. Dewey’s philosophy perceived a teacher’s role as a guide and observer, rather than an instructor or a disciplinarian. The teacher is to provide and prepare the environment and curriculum to allow children to benefit and learn productively from it. Teachers were also expected to observe children and come up with activities designed to facilitate optimal learning (Feeney, Christensen and Moravcik, 2006). For the pre-nursery and nursery classes, I would provide a large variety of materials where children would be given the choice to choose based on their preference. I would not interfere in their choice activity as long as it conforms safety standards. I would also plan for activities where children could explore and exercise trial and error. For instance in the dough making session, they would be able to explore how much water is needed to achieve the texture of dough they would like, and what should be added when the dough becomes too soft. However, I would be guiding children whenever they are stuck or faced with much difficulty. I would also put up children’s work like their art work at a prominent corner of the classroom to make them feel that their work is valued. For the kindergarten classes, I would plan the lesson together with the children and come up with activities that could tap on their interest. For instance, discussing with children about which occupations interests them the most by showing them a variety of it. After the children have made their choices, I would plan activities catered to their interest. Throughout the lesson, I would make observational notes about each child and provide experiences or materials catered to individual’s interest. For example if a child shows immense interest in the occupation teacher, I would plan for the child to have a go at teaching his fellow classmates a song. Or if a child is interested in being a policeman, he could patrol the corridors before nap time to ensure that children are not hiding in the toilets or up to mischief. Similarly, under the Framework for Kindergarten Curriculum, MOE recommend putting their principles into practice in a few ways. These includes, preparing the learning environment by encouraging learning at their own pace and choice, planning meaningful activities based on children’s interest and abilities, allowing resources and materials to be easily and readily available and observing and monitoring children’s development. (Ministry of Education, Singapore, 2003) Through Dewey, I become aware of various methods and principles which plays a vital role in children’s pre-school learning. Though there were also controversies in Dewey’s philosophy, I believe that each philosopher possesses their own virtues and Dewey was one which struck me the most. References Association for Early Childhood Educators, Singapore (2005). Code of ethics. Retrieved March 23, 2010 from http://www. aeces. org/code_of_ethics Early Childhood Teachers’ Association (2003). Educating young children. Journal of early childhood teachers’ association inc and school of early childhood university of technology, 9(1) Feeney, S. Christensen, D. Moravcik, E. (2006). Who am I in the lives of children? : an introduction to early childhood education (7th ed). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. Pearson Education. Flanagan, F. M. (1994). John Dewey. Retrieved March 24, 2010 from http://www. admin. mfu. edu/ctlf/Ed%20Psych%20Readings/dewey. pdf Henniger, M. L. (2002) Teaching young children: An introduction (2nd ed). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. Pearson Education.

The Host Chapter 4: Dreamed

It is too dark to be so hot, or maybe too hot to be so dark. One of the two is out of place. I crouch in the darkness behind the weak protection of a scrubby creosote bush, sweating out all the water left in my body. It's been fifteen minutes since the car left the garage. No lights have come on. The arcadia door is open two inches, letting the swamp cooler do its job. I can imagine the feel of the moist, cool air blowing through the screen. I wish it could reach me here. My stomach gurgles, and I clench my abdominal muscles to stifle the sound. It is quiet enough that the murmur carries. I am so hungry. There is another need that is stronger-another hungry stomach hidden safely far away in the darkness, waiting alone in the rough cave that is our temporary home. A cramped place, jagged with volcanic rock. What will he do if I don't come back? All the pressure of motherhood with none of the knowledge or experience. I feel so hideously helpless. Jamie is hungry. There are no other houses close to this one. I've been watching since the sun was still white hot in the sky, and I don't think there is a dog, either. I ease up from my crouch, my calves screaming in protest, but keep hunched at the waist, trying to be smaller than the bush. The way up the wash is smooth sand, a pale pathway in the light of the stars. There are no sounds of cars on the road. I know what they will realize when they return, the monsters who look like a nice couple in their early fifties. They will know exactly what I am, and the search will begin at once. I need to be far away. I really hope they are going out for a night on the town. I think it's Friday. They keep our habits so perfectly, it's hard to see any difference. Which is how they won in the first place. The fence around the yard is only waist high. I get over easily, noiselessly. The yard is gravel, though, and I have to walk carefully to keep my weight from shifting it. I make it to the patio slab. The blinds are open. The starlight is enough to see that the rooms are empty of movement. This couple goes for a spartan look, and I'm grateful. It makes it harder for someone to hide. Of course, that leaves no place for me to hide, either, but if it comes to hiding for me, it's too late anyway. I ease the screen door open first, and then the glass door. Both glide silently. I place my feet carefully on the tile, but this is just out of habit. No one is waiting for me here. The cool air feels like heaven. The kitchen is to my left. I can see the gleam of granite counters. I pull the canvas bag from my shoulder and start with the refrigerator. There is a moment of anxiety as the light comes on when the door opens, but I find the button and hold it down with my toe. My eyes are blind. I don't have time to let them adjust. I go by feel. Milk, cheese slices, leftovers in a plastic bowl. I hope it's the chicken-and-rice thing I watched him cooking for dinner. We'll eat this tonight. Juice, a bag of apples. Baby carrots. These will stay good till morning. I hurry to the pantry. I need things that will keep longer. I can see better as I gather as much as I can carry. Mmm, chocolate chip cookies. I'm dying to open the bag right now, but I grit my teeth and ignore the twist of my empty stomach. The bag gets heavy too quickly. This will last us only a week, even if we're careful with it. And I don't feel like being careful; I feel like gorging. I shove granola bars into my pockets. One more thing. I hurry to the sink and refill my canteen. Then I put my head under the flow and gulp straight from the stream. The water makes odd noises when it hits my hollow stomach. I start to feel panicked now that my job is done. I want to be out of here. Civilization is deadly. I watch the floor on my way out, worried about tripping with my heavy bag, which is why I don't see the silhouetted black figure on the patio until my hand is on the door. I hear his mumbled oath at the same time that a stupid squeak of fear escapes my mouth. I spin to sprint for the front door, hoping the locks are not latched, or at least not difficult. I don't even get two steps before rough, hard hands grab my shoulders and wrench me back against his body. Too big, too strong to be a woman. The bass voice proves me right. â€Å"One sound and you die,† he threatens gruffly. I am shocked to feel a thin, sharp edge pushing into the skin under my jaw. I don't understand. I shouldn't be given a choice. Who is this monster? I've never heard of one who would break rules. I answer the only way I can. â€Å"Do it,† I spit through my teeth. â€Å"Just do it. I don't want to be a filthy parasite!† I wait for the knife, and my heart is aching. Each beat has a name. Jamie, Jamie, Jamie. What will happen to you now? â€Å"Clever,† the man mutters, and it doesn't sound like he's speaking to me. â€Å"Must be a Seeker. And that means a trap. How did they know?† The steel disappears from my throat, only to be replaced by a hand as hard as iron. I can barely breathe under his grip. â€Å"Where are the rest of them?† he demands, squeezing. â€Å"It's just me!† I rasp. I can't lead him to Jamie. What will Jamie do when I don't come back? Jamie is hungry! I throw my elbow into his gut-and this really hurts. His stomach muscles are as iron hard as the hand. Which is very strange. Muscles like that are the product of hard living or obsession, and the parasites have neither. He doesn't even suck in a breath at my blow. Desperate, I jab my heel into his instep. This catches him off guard, and he wobbles. I wrench away, but he grabs hold of my bag, yanking me back into his body. His hand clamps down on my throat again. â€Å"Feisty for a peace-loving body snatcher, aren't you?† His words are nonsensical. I thought the aliens were all the same. I guess they have their nut jobs, too, after all. I twist and claw, trying to break his hold. My nails catch his arm, but this just makes him tighten his hold on my throat. â€Å"I will kill you, you worthless body thief. I'm not bluffing.† â€Å"Do it, then!† Suddenly he gasps, and I wonder if any of my flailing limbs have made contact. I don't feel any new bruises. He lets go of my arm and grabs my hair. This must be it. He's going to cut my throat. I brace for the slice of the knife. But the hand on my throat eases up, and then his fingers are fumbling on the back of my neck, rough and warm on my skin. â€Å"Impossible,† he breathes. Something hits the floor with a thud. He's dropped the knife? I try to think of a way to get it. Maybe if I fall. The hand on my neck isn't tight enough to keep me from yanking free. I think I heard where the blade landed. He spins me around suddenly. There is a click, and light blinds my left eye. I gasp and automatically try to twist away from it. His hand tightens in my hair. The light flickers to my right eye. â€Å"I can't believe it,† he whispers. â€Å"You're still human.† His hands grab my face from both sides, and before I can pull free, his lips come down hard on mine. I'm frozen for half a second. No one has ever kissed me in my life. Not a real kiss. Just my parents' pecks on the cheek or forehead, so many years ago. This is something I thought I would never feel. I'm not sure exactly what it feels like, though. There's too much panic, too much terror, too much adrenaline. I jerk my knee up in a sharp thrust. He chokes out a wheezing sound, and I'm free. Instead of running for the front of the house again like he expects, I duck under his arm and leap through the open door. I think I can outrun him, even with my load. I've got a head start, and he's still making pained noises. I know where I'm going-I won't leave a path he can see in the dark. I never dropped the food, and that's good. I think the granola bars are a loss, though. â€Å"Wait!† he yells. Shut up, I think, but I don't yell back. He's running after me. I can hear his voice getting closer. â€Å"I'm not one of them!† Sure. I keep my eyes on the sand and sprint. My dad used to say I ran like a cheetah. I was the fastest on my track team, state champion, back before the end of the world. â€Å"Listen to me!† He's still yelling at full volume. â€Å"Look! I'll prove it. Just stop and look at me!† Not likely. I pivot off the wash and flit through the mesquites. â€Å"I didn't think there was anyone left! Please, I need to talk to you!† His voice surprises me-it is too close. â€Å"I'm sorry I kissed you! That was stupid! I've just been alone so long!† â€Å"Shut up!† I don't say it loudly, but I know he hears. He's getting even closer. I've never been outrun before. I push my legs harder. There's a low grunt to his breathing as he speeds up, too. Something big flies into my back, and I go down. I taste dirt in my mouth, and I'm pinned by something so heavy I can hardly breathe. â€Å"Wait. A. Minute,† he huffs. He shifts his weight and rolls me over. He straddles my chest, trapping my arms under his legs. He is squishing my food. I growl and try to squirm out from under him. â€Å"Look, look, look!† he says. He pulls a small cylinder from his hip pocket and twists the top. A beam of light shoots out the end. He turns the flashlight on his face. The light makes his skin yellow. It shows prominent cheekbones beside a long thin nose and a sharply squared-off jaw. His lips are stretched into a grin, but I can see that they are full, for a man. His eyebrows and lashes are bleached out from sun. But that's not what he is showing me. His eyes, clear liquid sienna in the illumination, shine with no more than human reflection. He bounces the light between left and right. â€Å"See? See? I'm just like you.† â€Å"Let me see your neck.† Suspicion is thick in my voice. I don't let myself believe that this is more than a trick. I don't understand the point of the charade, but I'm sure there is one. There is no hope anymore. His lips twist. â€Å"Well†¦ That won't exactly help anything. Aren't the eyes enough? You know I'm not one of them.† â€Å"Why won't you show me your neck?† â€Å"Because I have a scar there,† he admits. I try to squirm out from under him again, and his hand pins my shoulder. â€Å"It's self-inflicted,† he explains. â€Å"I think I did a pretty good job, though it hurt like hell. I don't have all that pretty hair to cover my neck. The scar helps me blend in.† â€Å"Get off me.† He hesitates, then gets to his feet in one easy move, not needing to use his hands. He holds one out, palm up, to me. â€Å"Please don't run away. And, um, I'd rather you didn't kick me again, either.† I don't move. I know he can catch me if I try to run. â€Å"Who are you?† I whisper. He smiles wide. â€Å"My name is Jared Howe. I haven't spoken to another human being in more than two years, so I'm sure I must seem†¦ a little crazy to you. Please, forgive that and tell me your name, anyway.† â€Å"Melanie,† I whisper. â€Å"Melanie,† he repeats. â€Å"I can't tell you how delighted I am to meet you.† I grip my bag tightly, keeping my eyes on him. He reaches his hand down toward me slowly. And I take it. It isn't until I see my hand curl voluntarily around his that I realize I believe him. He helps me to my feet and doesn't release my hand when I'm up. â€Å"What now?† I ask guardedly. â€Å"Well, we can't stay here for long. Will you come back with me to the house? I left my bag. You beat me to the fridge.† I shake my head. He seems to realize how brittle I am, how close to breaking. â€Å"Will you wait for me here, then?† he asks in a gentle voice. â€Å"I'll be very quick. Let me get us some more food.† â€Å"Us?† â€Å"Do you really think I'm going to let you disappear? I'll follow you even if you tell me not to.† I don't want to disappear from him. â€Å"I†¦Ã¢â‚¬  How can I not trust another human completely? We're family-both part of the brotherhood of extinction. â€Å"I don't have time. I have so far to go and†¦ Jamie is waiting.† â€Å"You're not alone,† he realizes. His expression shows uncertainty for the first time. â€Å"My brother. He's just nine, and he's so frightened when I'm away. It will take me half the night to get back to him. He won't know if I've been caught. He's so hungry.† As if to make my point, my stomach growls loudly. Jared's smile is back, brighter than before. â€Å"Will it help if I give you a ride?† â€Å"A ride?† I echo. â€Å"I'll make you a deal. You wait here while I gather more food, and I'll take you anywhere you want to go in my jeep. It's faster than running-even faster than you running.† â€Å"You have a car?† â€Å"Of course. Do you think I walked out here?† I think of the six hours it took me to walk here, and my forehead furrows. â€Å"We'll be back to your brother in no time,† he promises. â€Å"Don't move from this spot, okay?† I nod. â€Å"And eat something, please. I don't want your stomach to give us away.† He grins, and his eyes crinkle up, fanning lines out of the corners. My heart gives one hard thump, and I know I will wait here if it takes him all night. He is still holding my hand. He lets go slowly, his eyes not leaving mine. He takes a step backward, then pauses. â€Å"Please don't kick me,† he pleads, leaning forward and grabbing my chin. He kisses me again, and this time I feel it. His lips are softer than his hands, and hot, even in the warm desert night. A flock of butterflies riots in my stomach and steals my breath. My hands reach for him instinctively. I touch the warm skin of his cheek, the rough hair on his neck. My fingers skim over a line of puckered skin, a raised ridge right beneath the hairline. I scream. I woke up covered in sweat. Even before I was all the way awake, my fingers were on the back of my neck, tracing the short line left from the insertion. I could barely detect the faint pink blemish with my fingertips. The medicines the Healer had used had done their job. Jared's poorly healed scar had never been much of a disguise. I flicked on the light beside my bed, waiting for my breathing to slow, veins full of adrenaline from the realistic dream. A new dream, but in essence so much the same as the many others that had plagued me in the past months. No, not a dream. Surely a memory. I could still feel the heat of Jared's lips on mine. My hands reached out without my permission, searching across the rumpled sheet, looking for something they did not find. My heart ached when they gave up, falling to the bed limp and empty. I blinked away the unwelcome moisture in my eyes. I didn't know how much more of this I could stand. How did anyone survive this world, with these bodies whose memories wouldn't stay in the past where they should? With these emotions that were so strong I couldn't tell what I felt anymore? I was going to be exhausted tomorrow, but I felt so far from sleep that I knew it would be hours before I could relax. I might as well do my duty and get it over with. Maybe it would help me take my mind off things I'd rather not think about. I rolled off the bed and stumbled to the computer on the otherwise empty desk. It took a few seconds for the screen to glow to life, and another few seconds to open my mail program. It wasn't hard to find the Seeker's address; I only had four contacts: the Seeker, the Healer, my new employer, and his wife, my Comforter. There was another human with my host, Melanie Stryder. I typed, not bothering with a greeting. His name is Jamie Stryder; he is her brother. For a panicked moment, I wondered at her control. All this time, and I'd never even guessed at the boy's existence-not because he didn't matter to her, but because she protected him more fiercely than other secrets I'd unraveled. Did she have more secrets this big, this important? So sacred that she kept them even from my dreams? Was she that strong? My fingers trembled as I keyed the rest of the information. I think he's a young adolescent now. Perhaps thirteen. They were living in a temporary camp, and I believe it was north of the town of Cave Creek, in Arizona. That was several years ago, though. Still, you could compare a map to the lines I remembered before. As always, I'll tell you if I get anything more. I sent it off. As soon as it was gone, terror washed through me. Not Jamie! Her voice in my head was as clear as my own spoken aloud. I shuddered in horror. Even as I struggled with the fear of what was happening, I was gripped with the insane desire to e-mail the Seeker again and apologize for sending her my crazy dreams. To tell her I was half asleep and to pay no attention to the silly message I'd sent. The desire was not my own. I shut off the computer. I hate you, the voice snarled in my head. â€Å"Then maybe you should leave,† I snapped. The sound of my voice, answering her aloud, made me shudder again. She hadn't spoken to me since the first moments I'd been here. There was no doubt that she was getting stronger. Just like the dreams. And there was no question about it; I was going to have to visit my Comforter tomorrow. Tears of disappointment and humiliation welled in my eyes at the thought. I went back to bed, put a pillow over my face, and tried to think of nothing at all.