Global history Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Global history - Essay Example Additionally, the end of the Cold War has had important implications for the already precarious states of Africa and has coincided with the emergence of Asian economic â€Å"Tigers†: a global economic shift towards emerging East Asian powerhouses. Our current wave of globalization will be traced back to the late 1960s, beginning with the â€Å"social revolution† of that decade, and will end with today’s international state of affairs. The social revolution of the 1960s was also a cultural revolution. In fact, the â€Å"rise of a specific, and extraordinarily powerful youth culture indicated a profound change in the relation between generations† (Hobsbawm 324). Leading this cultural revolution were the young: teenagers started wearing jeans – prior to that only farmers wore them – and rock music became the voice of a generation (Hobsbawm 324). In fact, industries saw the potential of this young and increasingly powerful generation and catered to it through the â€Å"flourishing industries of cosmetics, hair-care and personal hygiene† (Hobsbawm 326). Hobsbawm asserts that the social revolution of the 1960s was as much a capitalist venture as a social and cultural revolution. The result of this â€Å"concentrated mass of purchasing power† (Hobsbawm 326) was the development of a sort of cultural hegemony, with blue jeans and rock music the identifiers of modern youth. Cultural symbo ls of identity thus perpetuated an Anglo-American global cultural hegemony. Additionally, "the cultural revolution of the latest twentieth century can thus best be understood as the triumph of the individual over society, or rather, the breaking of the threads which in the past had woven human beings into social textures" (Hobsbawm 324-330). Planned capitalism, expressed through governmental economic intervention and the Bretton Woods Agreements of 1944, exploded during the 1970s. Bretton Woods, which established

The Cuban Missile Crisis Essay Example for Free

The Cuban Missile Crisis Essay Histories were once realities. Most of the stories we read in our textbooks for academic purposes were actual real life experiences of some people – people who at that time were faced with fear, anxiety and the pressure to make the right decision. Where we are as a nation today is a reflection of the right or wrong decision made by our leaders. Although we can boast of several illustrious leaders whose decision has helped mould the future of this nation, John F. Kennedy was a president whose choice at a critical period in the history of America made the whole difference (White, 1996). Through his decision, he showed the world that the best way of resolving differences is not through warfare but through negotiations and compromise (Graham, 1999). The true test of a leader is evident in his/she ability to make sound and timely decisions when called upon to do so. A good leader must have the ability to respond to issues, the guts to take risks and foresight to predict what might eventually occur as a result of the decision he/she is making. Where we are as a country today, is as a result of the decisions our leaders have made in the past. No event can be isolated in life; rather, we trace the history of every occurrence to what has happened in the past. This is because the present is a victim of the past and we must understand the past in order to make sense of what is happening in the present. Such is the case in our country. October 1962 – a year that will be marked on the calendar of America. For us who read or heard of the story, it was an historic period in America. However, for those witnessed as the events occurred, it was a period of panic, uncertainty and unrest. Nobody could predict what will happen – not the American government, not the Soviet Union and definitely not the citizens of America. As Allison puts it, the thirteen days that the crisis lasted can be described as the most dangerous moment in human history (Graham, 1999). Sometimes after the crisis, Nikita Khrushchev recalls, I found myself in the difficult position of having to decide on a course of action which would answer the American threat but which would also avoid war.   Any fool can start a war, and once hes done so, even the wisest of men are helpless to stop it especially if it’s a nuclear war. (Gribkov Smith, 1986). The expiration of the World War II brought with it the advancement of science and technology. During the war itself, the German atomic scientists were encouraged o build nuclear ballistic weapons that was capable of destroying a whole city. Scientists from Britain, France, the Soviet Union, and the United States came together in a bid to build a nuclear weapon. This was done under the code-name â€Å"Manhattan Project†. The project was sponsored by America and in July 1945, the first atomic bomb was made. Hiding under the guise of being ambushed during the World War II, America decided to continue the making of nuclear weapons and each one that was made was more dangerous than the previous. However, as it would appear, it was not only the American government that was amassing nuclear weapon, the Soviet Union was also producing nuclear bombs – although not as dangerous or powerful as the ones produced by America. In the scheme of things then, possession of nuclear power automatically makes you a threat to the world and untouchable to other nations. It was a guarantee for safety and it comes with such benefits of being regarded as a world power. America, by inference, was quickly becoming a force to reckon with and a predominant power in the world. The Cuban Missile Crisis itself was an accumulation of the friction between the American government and the revolutionary government of Fidel Castro. Before the Cuban Revolution of 1959, America enjoyed a great deal of influence on the economy and politics of Cuba (Encarta, 2008). However, this changed under the government of Fidel Castro. Castro refused to be influenced by America instead he formulated policies that gave the American government a reason to be concerned. He seized the property of wealthy Cubans and those of foreigners, who were mostly Americans, in a bid to establish a communist system in Cuba. This resulted in the placement of an economic embargo on Cuba. This cut any form of trade between America and Cuba. Instead of giving in, Castro decided to establish a better relationship with the communist nations. During this period, there was a cold war between the American government and the USSR – a war between communists and capitalist nations. In an attempt to overthrow Castro’s government, the American government decided to establish relations with Cubans that were against Castro’s government. The American government trained and supplied ammunitions to anti-Castro Cubans that sought refuge in America. In 1961, these anti-Castro agitators invaded Cuba in the Bay of Pigs. This invasion was not successful and as it turned out, it consolidated Castro’s government. Cubans were infuriated with the U.S government because of its interference with political issues in Cuba and as a result gave their full allegiance to Fidel Castro’s communist government. With Fidel Castro formal declaration that Cuba was a communist nation, the tension between the American government and Fidel Castro intensified. At the same time, Soviet prime minister, Nikita Khrushchev began a plot to secretly deliver nuclear weapons to Cuba. This plan was welcomed by Fidel Castro who wants to use the opportunity to protect his island following the threat of the Bay of Pigs. The Soviet premier devised this plan in order to avert any attack that might be launched against the Soviet Union. This plan was meant to be privy to the United States government. Khrushchev did this on the assumption that this action would go unnoticed by the American government. With both parties fighting a common enemy, an arrangement was made for the quick installation of missiles in Cuba without drawing attention of the United States government. Looking at the crisis from the perspective of the United States government, the crisis began on October 15, 1962 after a U-2 spy plane and U.S. Navy low-level reconnaissance aircraft took photographs of Soviet missiles which was under construction in Cuba. The following morning, the matter was brought to the notice of President John F. Kennedy who immediately formed the EX-COMM. This group consisted of the twelve advisory members who were considered the most competent in handling the issue. President John F. Kennedy decided that the EX-COMM meetings should be held secretly so as not to make the Soviet Union suspect that the United States was fully aware of the situation. After seven days of difficult and long secret meetings, President John F. Kennedy openly announced the discovery of the missile installation 90 miles aware from the shores of Florida. Although President John F. Kennedy was presented with evidence based information that posed a threat on major cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, he knew the situation was a complex one which called for a tactical solution. He was faced with a situation with potentially severe consequences. However, he could not decide the course of action to be taken against Cuba or the Soviet Union. Although America in 1962 can be said to be the predominant world nuclear power, Kennedy and his advisors knew that launching an attack could turn into a nuclear war that could turn into another World War. On the other hand, the Soviet Union posed a threat if America folds its arms and does nothing (Encarta, 2008). The predicament, as Kennedy conceived it, was severe. After several sessions of hot deliberation, President John F. Kennedy and his advisers came to a concession that a blockade would be the right course of action to take. Although they did not all have the same reasons for supporting the blockade, they agreed to the fact that a full military invasion would be risky given the situation of things. On October 22, 1962, President John F. Kennedy openly announced that the Soviet Union should get rid of all the missile bases and their harmful contents. He also ordered a â€Å"naval quarantine (blockade) of Cuba in order to prevent Russian ships from bringing additional missiles and construction materials to the island† (hpol.org, 1990). For several days, the world watched in fear as the crisis intensified. The American government waited for the course of action to be taken by the soviet premier. This is because a blockade, in military terms, was considered an art of war. Although President John F. Kennedy claimed the action was a naval quarantine, Kennedy and his advisers were not certain of how the Soviet Union will conceive of such action (Encarta, 2008). During this period, several soviet ships turned back to from the quarantine line but the missile installation continued. However, on October 26, 1962, the crisis took a new turn with Khrushchev sending a coded cable to Kennedy, offering to withdraw the missiles from Cuba on the condition that United States would not attack the Island of Cuba. Early the next day, President John F. Kennedy agreed to the terms of Khrushchev.

A Small, Good Thing, by Raymond Carver Essay -- Raymond Carver

The short story, "A Small, Good Thing" by Raymond Carver tells of two American parents dealing with their son's hospitalization and death as the result of a hit-and-run car accident. The insensitive actions of their local baker add to their anger and confusion, yet by the end of the story, leave them with a sense of optimism and strength. With such content, Carver runs the risk of coming across as sentimental; however, this is not the case, and the anguish of the parents and their shock at the situation is expressed with dignity and understatement. It is a story with a broad appeal: the simple prose makes it accessible to a wide audience, while the complex themes and issues make it appealing to the educated reader. Written in Carver's characteristically minimalist style, the story poignantly evokes not only the trauma of the death of a child, but also the breakdown of communication and empathy in society. The plain and direct narrative style suits the content, conveying the lack of c ommunication that is central to the narrative - between the parents, between the hospital staff, and with the baker. Critically, it is generally considered one of Carver's strongest short stories. It is a tale of isolation and of grief, but also of hope, and, with its fluid, pared-down style, clearly demonstrates why Carver is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of the late 20th century. On the surface, the story of A Small, Good Thing is simple and universal. Thirty-three-year-old Ann Weiss orders a cake for her son's Scotty's eighth birthday and is a little put off by the baker's cold attitude - "(he) was not jolly. There were no pleasantries between them, just the minimum exchange of words, the necessary information." However, she soo... ...- emotional yet not melodramatic; sparsely written yet still complex; a human story which explores the arbitrary nature of fate. The writing style is fresh and invigorating; the characters well-drawn, the narrative driving, the themes thought-provoking. While some readers are likely to be frustrated by the limited exposition and the abruptness of the actions, most could be expected to find it well worth their attention. A Small, Good Thing has become a minimalist classic, and a close reading should clearly demonstrate why Carver is regarded as one of the strongest short-story writers in recent times. Bibliography Clarke, Graham. "Investing the Glimpse: Raymond Carver and the Syntax of Silence." The New American Writing: Essays on American Literature Since 1970. Ed. Graham Clarke. New York: St. Martin's, 1990. 99-122. http://cai.ucdavis.edu/enl3/minimalism.htm

Windows vs. Macintosh :: Compare Contrast Comparison Computers

Windows vs. Macintosh Windows based computers are more practical, easier to use, and more versatile than Macintosh computers. There has always been much debate over which is the better system. There are people who are die-hard Macintosh users, and there are people who are the complete opposite, and naturally people sitting somewhere in between. The fact remains that the majority of home and business users own Windows based systems because of their versatility in all areas. More Practical Windows based computers are more practical for many reasons. Possibly the most prevalent of these being that everybody uses them. When using computers consistency is very important. If everyone is using a certain operating system and software, it is easier to transfer, share, and use the data you create. Windows based systems are the standard in our community, and that is not due to change any time soon. Windows based computers are cheaper, and more easily upgradeable than Macintosh systems. The reason for this being that Apple has exclusive rights to the hardware made specifically for their computers. Windows based system hardware is produced by literally thousands of manufacturers. This, of course, means competition, which in turn lowers prices. Macintosh systems are sold (primarily) as a whole system, meaning that the consumer ends up with what Apple has decided should be included in the system. Windows systems, however, can be built to the consumers needs, or by the consumer themselves. They could select which component would be best for them for the price they would pay for it. Most importantly, with a Windows based system consumers could select what components they wish to have based on what they might pay for them. At a Glance: AMD offers a high-performance chip at a low-budget price. If you're a thrifty shopper and don't need the zippiest system on your block, look no further. Processor Price Range: $125 to $200 Pre-fabricated System Price Range: $1,800 to $2,500 Pros: Low-price, high performance. PC Magazine tests show systems based on the 450-MHz K6-III are nearly as fast as those based on the 500-MHz Pentium III (though shop wisely, as components can play a big role in K6-III system performance). Cons: Solid 3-D performance, though not on par with the Pentium III. Fewer manufacturers to choose from. At a Glance: In PC Labs tests, the G3-based 400-MHz Power Mac beat a 500-MHz Pentium III on several business and graphics tests.

Jominy End Essay

To determine the hardenability of plain carbon steel. Theory Hardenability is the ability of a steel to be hardened and form martensite during quenching. Hardenability indicates the depth of hardness which is obtained from quenching process, and it is very important to the components of machine especially tool steel. One of the methods to determine the hardenability of steels is Jominy End-Quench Test. Hardening usually involves quenching where the steel is heated to austenite phase and fast cooling in the quench medium such as water, oil, salt solution, or air to produce microstructure of martensite. The martensite gives hard and brittle properties of steel. Usually, for heavy steel components, the hardness decreases at the core of component because the microstructure formed is ferrite and pearlite. While at the surface of the component have higher hardness. The difference of the hardness between the core and surface can be explained by Continuous Cooling Transformation or CCT diagram of the steel. If the cooling rate of steel does not cross the transformation curve of the diagram, then the hardness on the whole steel can be obtained. CCT diagrams allow prediction of the final microstructure of the steel taking into account the continuous nature of the process during cooling of austenite. Other than that, CCT diagrams take into consideration continuous cooling during quenching; the cooling curve assumes a constant cooling rate. As we can see from the diagram, martensite form at the temperature below than 200? C, it mean that the specimen with faster cooling rate will able to form more martensite and higher hardness. Continuous Cooling Transformation diagram | | The above diagram show the time-temperature isothermal transformation diagram for the plain carbon steel Apparatus Specimen of plain carbon steel, furnace, Jominy End-Quench Unit, and Vickers Harness Tester. Experimental Procedure (a) Heat the specimen to temperature of 850Â °C and soak at that temperature for 20 minutes. After that, its remain almost constant while the distance increase. In our experiment, there are some test errors where we are having small rise in our reading of the hardenability value which suppose decrease continuously. This is due to the uneven surface of the tested specimen or cause by the unbalanced cooling rate throughout the specimen. (b) Gives your opinion on the correlation between cooling rate of specimen and the graph obtained. The cooling rate at the end of the plain carbon steel are much higher compare to the. Thus, in the graph it shows the highest hardness at the early stage and then slowly decreases when approaching to the core of the steel. We also can say that, at the end of the steel has the highest hardness which cause by the high content of martensite. However, the content of the martensite and hardness will drop when approaching to the centre of the steel. We can conclude that the cooling rate decreases from the end-quench to the centre of the steel, resulting in decreasing of the hardness.

Free Essays on Bad Tendency Or Clear And Present Danger

have a tendency to undermine the authority of government to corrupt the morals of some members of society, the writer or speaker can be punished.† (Holsinger & Dilts – 49). Under this precedent there was almost always a conviction since only a propensity towards harm can prove guilt. Through several World War I sedition cases, the â€Å"bad tendency† test was used in trials for Socialists, and draft dodgers. This precedent would not be changed until 1919 with another Socialist case which involved a man named Charles Schenck. At this point in defense, counsel finally decided to argue that â€Å"bad tendency† meddled with the First Amendment’s right to free speech. In Schenck v. U.S. , Charles Schenck the secretary of the Socialist party printed brochures urging citizens to oppose the draft during World War I. He was charged with violating the Espionage Act, found guilty, and then sentenced to jail. The case was brought to the Supreme Court under strict scrutiny. With this ... Free Essays on Bad Tendency Or Clear And Present Danger Free Essays on Bad Tendency Or Clear And Present Danger The progression of Supreme Court cases starting 1919 began a debate about the extent of the First Amendment’s protection of sedition and also how it would be defined. The first explanation was called â€Å"bad tendency,† and it was way too vague and subjective to be relied on. Next, through Schenck v. U.S. the famous â€Å"fire in a movie theater† example was given to describe the â€Å"Clear and Present Danger† idea. Through each case the precedent was becoming more and more refined to create a more detailed law in prosecuting sedition. An old existing explanation called â€Å"bad tendency† was the only precedent for prosecuting cases, which compromised the given freedoms of speech and press. This idea of â€Å"bad tendency† came from English common law that even justified American ideas like the Sedition Act if 1798. No definite injury needs to be shown to prove this theory. The actual â€Å"bad tendency† terms are as follows: â€Å"If words have a tendency to undermine the authority of government to corrupt the morals of some members of society, the writer or speaker can be punished.† (Holsinger & Dilts – 49). Under this precedent there was almost always a conviction since only a propensity towards harm can prove guilt. Through several World War I sedition cases, the â€Å"bad tendency† test was used in trials for Socialists, and draft dodgers. This precedent would not be changed until 1919 with another Socialist case which involved a man named Charles Schenck. At this point in defense, counsel finally decided to argue that â€Å"bad tendency† meddled with the First Amendment’s right to free speech. In Schenck v. U.S. , Charles Schenck the secretary of the Socialist party printed brochures urging citizens to oppose the draft during World War I. He was charged with violating the Espionage Act, found guilty, and then sentenced to jail. The case was brought to the Supreme Court under strict scrutiny. With this ...

Why Rings Turn Your Finger Green

Why Rings Turn Your Finger Green Have you ever gotten a green ring around your finger from wearing a ring? How about a black ring or a red ring? Discoloration where a ring touches your skin is due to a combination of factors: the metal of the ring, the chemical environment on your skin and your bodys immune response to the ring.Its a common misconception that only cheap rings can turn your finger green. Inexpensive rings commonly are made using copper or a copper alloy, which reacts with oxygen to form copper oxide, or verdigris, which is green. Its not harmful and wears away a few days after you stop wearing the ring. However, fine jewelry also can cause discoloration of your finger.Silver rings can turn your finger green or black. Silver reacts with acids and air to tarnish to a black color. Sterling silver usually contains about 7% copper, so you can get the green discoloration too. Gold, especially 10k and 14k gold, usually contains enough non-gold metal that it can cause discoloration. White gold is an exceptio n, since it is plated with rhodium, which tends not to discolor. The rhodium plating wears away over time, so a ring that initially seems fine may produce a discoloration after it has been worn a while.Another cause of discoloration may be a reaction to the metal of the ring. Some people are sensitive to any of a number of metals used in ring, especially copper and nickel. Applying lotions or other chemicals to your hand while wearing a ring increases the likelihood that the ring, chemical and your skin will react.

The Family Geometridae (Moths, Inchworms, and Loopers)

The Family Geometridae (Moths, Inchworms, and Loopers) Inchworm, inchworm, measuring the marigolds†¦ That classic childrens song refers to the larvae of the geometer moths. The family name Geometridae comes from the Greek geo, meaning earth, and metron, meaning measure. These forest caterpillars serve as an important source of food for birds. All About Geometer Moths Geometer moths may be easiest to identify in the larval stage, thanks to their unusual appearance. The caterpillars bear just two or three pairs of prolegs near their hind ends, instead of the five pairs found in most butterfly or moth larvae. With no legs in the middle section of its body, a Geometer moth caterpillar moves in a looping fashion. It anchors itself with the rear prolegs, extends its body forward, and then pulls its hind end up to meet its front end. Thanks to this method of locomotion, these caterpillars go by various nicknames, including inchworms, spanworms, loopers, and measuring worms. Adult geometer moths vary from small to medium in size, with slender bodies and broad wings sometimes decorated with thin, wavy lines. Some species are sexually dimorphic. Females in a few species lack wings entirely. In this family, the tympanal organs are located on the abdomen. Nearly all geometer moths fly at night and are attracted to lights. For those who enjoy confirming IDs using wing venation characteristics, take a close look at the subcostal vein (Sc) of the hindwing. In Geometrids, it bends sharply toward the base. Examine the cubitus of the forewing, and you should find it appears to divide into three branches if youve found a specimen from this family. Classification of Geometer Moths Kingdom – AnimaliaPhylum – ArthropodaClass – InsectaOrder – LepidopteraFamily - Geometridae The Geometer Moth Diet Geometer moth larvae feed on plants, with most species preferring woody trees or shrubs over herbaceous plants. Some cause significant forest defoliation. The Geometer Life Cycle All geometer moths undergo complete metamorphosis with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Geometrid eggs can be laid singly or in groups, varying according to species. Most geometer moths overwinter in the pupal stage, though some do so as eggs or caterpillars. A few spend winter as eggs or larvae instead. Special Behaviors and Defenses of Geometer Moths Many geometer moth larvae bear cryptic markings that resemble plant parts. When threatened, these inchworms may stand erect, extending their bodies straight outward from the branch or stem theyre gripping, to mimic a twig or leaf petiole. David Wagner notes, in Caterpillars of Eastern North America, that their body color and form can be influenced by diet as well as the lighting of a given caterpillars surroundings. Range and Distribution of Geometer Moths The family Geometridae is the second largest among all the butterflies and moths, with about 35,000 species worldwide. Over 1,400 species occur in just the U.S. and Canada. Geometer moths live in vegetated habitats, especially those with woody plants available, and have a wide distribution throughout the world.

How important are marketing promotion strategies in the success of a Term Paper

How important are marketing promotion strategies in the success of a monopoly - Term Paper Example Monopoly can be created as a result of social or political inclination whereby consumers are influenced to prefer a particular producer or seller. This is evident where nationalism dictates what is produced and sold in the market. For instant, there are certain market economies that advocates for protectionism where consumers in that market are influenced to buy products from a particular producer or seller. This strategy often restricts other producers or sellers with intention to invest in the same market structure. In a monopoly market structure, the government often plays a greater role in selecting the producer or seller to dominate a particular market for products and services. For instance, the government often maintains monopoly in selecting firms the favor in a particular sector. In most markets, the sectors that monopoly structure is dominant include the telecommunication sector or the pharmaceutical sector (Amadeo, 2014). This paper explores how marketing promotion strateg ies are important in the success of a monopoly. Maintaining monopoly over a product means that the producer or seller has to stay ahead of other firms in terms of coming up with strategies main to retain their customer base. This is because the demands from customers or consumers are dynamic and maintain a static strategy may result to a backlash from consumers who can decide to look for other sellers or producers willing to meet their demand or reject products from a monopoly producer or seller (Freire, 2009). The drawback with a monopolistic structure is that a product or service often becomes monotonous in the market and customers may lose interest in their products if the monopolistic producer or seller is not creative enough to keep consumers enthusiastic about their products or services. As a result of globalisation and a pressure to liberalize the global market, maintaining a monopolistic market structure is becoming more difficult as similar products are

Capstone IP 5 Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Capstone IP 5 - Research Paper Example ess mainframe, as well as distribution of infrastructure for information technology applications, since the time of their security product spin off into Total Defense (Ambos, Andersson & Birkinshaw, 2010). Therefore, the company engages in IT management software and solutions, and it facilitates optimization of IT by their customers with the aim of achieving enhanced business results. The company’s goal is to become a strategic partner upon whom the customers can rely as far as the adoption of new technologies is concerned, and at the same time, realize maximum value from the existing investments in IT (Ambos, Andersson & Birkinshaw, 2010). In this respect, therefore, the company has sought to employ a customer-centric strategy where the customer is at the center stage of the business, in which the company believes it can best achieve its goals. With this, the technical support of the CA Technologies has been made the lynchpin that helps the customers realize maximum value of the CA Technologies investment (Ambos, Andersson & Birkinshaw, 2010). The International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) is a multinational corporation for technology and consulting based in the United States. The company deals in manufacturing and marketing of computer software and hardware, in addition to offering infrastructure, consulting and hosting services in a wide range of areas, beginning from the nanotechnology to mainframe computers (Kane & Alavi, 2007). IBM boasts of over 12 research laboratories all over the world, and is also the leading company in patent generation for over 20 years. New services and products are important to the performance and survival of any organization. The introduction of new products, as observed by both IBM and AC Technologies, enhances the firm’s ability to meet the new demands on the market and facilitate the establishment of new generations of technology (Ambos, Andersson & Birkinshaw, 2010). A major logic within innovation in these

Advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing in IT Project Management Research Paper

Advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing in IT Project Management - Research Paper Example This research will begin with the statement that in most of the businesses today, the sole aim is to operate at optimum levels, where they reduce as many costs as possible and increase revenues to their best. In cost reduction, it is about reducing expenditure, especially expenditure, and ensuring that they use the cheapest products and services as possible. For instance, a company might be in need of a certain service for just but a short period of time. It could also be in need of such a service seasonally and not throughout. It would then be quite expensive and unnecessary to hire a full-time professional to handle that task for a short period then stay idle for a larger amount of time. In such cases, the company could consider hiring that professional on a contractual kind of a relationship. This is the primary concept lying behind outsourcing. Outsourcing is essentially the act of assigning certain business processes or activities to an external party that can help in handling t hem. Most of the time, large organizations cannot handle all their processes internally, either because they are too complex, bulky, or seasonal. The more common reason is the temporary nature of some tasks, such that the company is not willing to hire professionals permanently to carry out these activities from within. When the company then outsources the work to the external service provider, they accord them the responsibility of handling that activity all by themselves and maintaining the firm’s interests and assets at the same time.

Health Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4750 words

Health Psychology - Essay Example I held on to the biomedical perspective. Now, I realize there is more to it than just physical health. This, I realized as I mature, because I encounter several stressful moments that affect my well-being not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Such stress makes me unable to think well. I also realize that when I harbor negative emotions, it somehow translates to physical symptoms. Now, I adhere to the biopsychosocial philosophy of health. The discussions with my peers facilitated this belief because we all had our own notions and definitions of health, but the common ground is well-being. Many factors affect the health of a person and that includes social and environmental factors. The individual is also responsible for caring for himself, and his own illness prevention. This matter falls under the area of Health Psychology. This course has defined Health Psychology as â€Å"a branch of psychology that deals with how people cope and manage illness and health behaviour† (Course Notes, Psy 4101).. The person responsible for this is called a health psychologist. He is not a medical doctor but his field of expertise lies more on psychology and how to help people manage a healthier life. I also realized that health psychologists belong to a bigger group of psychologists that do research and development in this specialized field. This, I learned when I went to the site of the British Psychological Society (2010) and they included several areas where psychological research and methods apply: I know that in each area enumerated above, there fall numerous sub-areas that contribute to the wide scope of Health Psychology, and it is amazing how it still grows upon discovery of more information. The first area, the promotion and maintenance of health involves dissemination of health education. In line with the World Health

Final assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Final - Assignment Example As the rate of globalization goes high in the United States, the developing countries also look forward to get them same effects of globalization. Thus, the United States of America has to play a major role in facilitating development in the third world countries. United States created two international institutions which aim at developing all the countries in the world. The two institutions are World Trade Organization (WTO) formed in 19951. The main function of the World Trade organization was to settle all the trade disputes among the countries in the world. The second organization is the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which was formed after World War II. The events of the war destroyed most of the countries’ resources, and something had to be done to revolve their economy. The International Monetary Fund provided emergency loans to countries. After the events of World War II, the United States of America plays a major role in shaping the economy of the world. Thus, to ensure that other countries develop, they have to incorporate all the aspects of globalization. They have to advance the living standards and ensure that there is stability in the world’s economy. The policy makers have to come up with policies that promote globalization in all the countries, which is a great challenge2. Consequently, some of the third world countries cannot adapt globalization because of factors such as illiteracy and poverty. The United States has first to work on the two major challenges before introducing globalization in those countries. Thus, they need resources to ensure that they provide all the basic needs required and improve their education sector. Finance is needed to carry out all these activities, making it a great challenge. Globalization has resulted in a faster exchange of ideas among the countries. Criminals use the advanced technology to communicate over a long

Health Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4750 words

Health Psychology - Essay Example I held on to the biomedical perspective. Now, I realize there is more to it than just physical health. This, I realized as I mature, because I encounter several stressful moments that affect my well-being not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Such stress makes me unable to think well. I also realize that when I harbor negative emotions, it somehow translates to physical symptoms. Now, I adhere to the biopsychosocial philosophy of health. The discussions with my peers facilitated this belief because we all had our own notions and definitions of health, but the common ground is well-being. Many factors affect the health of a person and that includes social and environmental factors. The individual is also responsible for caring for himself, and his own illness prevention. This matter falls under the area of Health Psychology. This course has defined Health Psychology as â€Å"a branch of psychology that deals with how people cope and manage illness and health behaviour† (Course Notes, Psy 4101).. The person responsible for this is called a health psychologist. He is not a medical doctor but his field of expertise lies more on psychology and how to help people manage a healthier life. I also realized that health psychologists belong to a bigger group of psychologists that do research and development in this specialized field. This, I learned when I went to the site of the British Psychological Society (2010) and they included several areas where psychological research and methods apply: I know that in each area enumerated above, there fall numerous sub-areas that contribute to the wide scope of Health Psychology, and it is amazing how it still grows upon discovery of more information. The first area, the promotion and maintenance of health involves dissemination of health education. In line with the World Health

Internet Addiction and Depression Statistics Project

Internet Addiction and Depression - Statistics Project Example Chien, et al. (2005) argues that despite the great benefits brought about by the internet, it has led to adverse effects to some of its users. Internet addiction and depression has been cited as one of the major problem brought about by the internet (Oreilly, 1999). Internet addiction and depression is a major problem afflicting some of the internet users. According to Block (2008), internet addiction can be defined as the excessive use/ overuse of technological devices that can provide access to internet such as computers and phones in such a way that they interfere with one’s daily life. Internet addiction includes the following activities; excessive gaming on the internet, blogging, e- mailing, online social networking, internet shopping, and inappropriate pornography use (Young 2009). However, it is important to note that activities such as playing computer games or reading are only considered troubling/ addiction to an extent that these activities are interfering with a person’s normal life (Welsh, 1999). Related to internet addiction is internet related depression, which is defined as a mental/ psychological disorder that is characterized by loss of interest or pleasure, an all- encompassing low mood, and low self- esteem in an event that internet is withdrawn from an addicted person’s life (Bessiere, 2010). Bellamy and Hanewicz (2001) explain that internet depression can also take the form of an internet addict substituting friendships, which are meaningful, and socializing with internet’s virtual contacts, hence having adverse effects on his or her mental wellbeing. Morrison (2010) argues that their study proved that internet addiction and internet depression are strongly linked but the nature of that relationship is what is yet to be established. Armstrong (2001) says that it is not known, which comes first- whether internet cause depression or depressed people are drawn to

Functions of Management Essay Example for Free

Functions of Management Essay The following will include the four major functions of management in a health care setting, how these functions apply to managing others, important roles for health care manager and leader in the diversified health care industry and the most significant aspect related to health care management that I would like to gain by taking this class. The four major functions of management in a health care setting are: organizing, planning, controlling and leading. The four functions mentioned all work hand in hand when managing others or while being managed. Each manager is expected to be a leader of their department and make sure that patient’s needs are being met. A leader has to be well organized within the department to accomplish things as checking in patients, calling patients to remind them of upcoming procedures and appointments, referrals, and insurance authorization, paper work needs to be well organized to make sure that everything is done in order and correct. Organizing make it easy for changing of shifts between employees. Planning comes in to play when schedules are mapped out to make sure that enough health care workers are present for each day’s work load. It also help to plan around a physician surgery schedule and so forth. Controlling helps the manager to keep focus on work performance which in turn helps to build relationships with employees and patients due to the active contact. Leading in management is very important and the responsibility is more. A leader is responsible for training, department meetings, work schedule and goals to be accomplished each day without compromising the care for each patient. Planning plays an important role for a health care manager and leader in a diversified health care industry, without planning ahead it puts a health care facility at risk of not being able to perform above and beyond for their patient’s health care needs. According to Harvard business â€Å"In addition to negotiating the day-to-day demands of a busy and complex organization, healthcare executives must also be able to evaluate and understand the impact of alternative care delivery models†.

The Private Pension Industry In Ghana Accounting Essay

The Private Pension Industry In Ghana Accounting Essay Ghana, a role model in terms of economic and political stability has recently been upgraded to a middle-income country following years of implementing sound economic policy and stable political environment and with this upgrade comes its own challenges. Ghanas economy is strong and promises generous future growth and the need for a much more comprehensive social security system is understood to be of great importance. In 2004, the government started a journey to reform the social security/ pension system and these reforms created an opportunity for the participation of the private sector in pension delivery. This proposed business plans seeks to establish a trustee company, which will provide pension related products to the formal and informal sectors of the Ghanaian economy who have traditionally been excluded from the national pension system. The private pension industry is a new and virtually untapped industry offering an opportunity to serve a large proportion of Ghanas workforce, as this section of the working class is key in the success of developing a comprehensive pension system. This industry is estimated to be valued at GHS and will insist of 2nd tier and voluntary 3rd Tier pension system. The national pension scheme has seen an average annual increase in contribution of 10%. The target market for the proposed business is a young adult between the ages of 16 and 45 years. The target market will consist of young professionals, self-employed individuals and those who traditionally do not have access to the national pension scheme namely hairdressers, mechanics, etc. With the growing appreciation of securing ones future, the target group demand quick and efficient services, products that meet their existing and future needs and an industry that responds quickly to their needs. Currently, there is no existing service provider in the private pension industry however the life insurance industry is expected to lead the way and be the dominant players in the provision of these services. The proposed business plan seeks to be consumer focus providing excellent customer services, constant customer feedback and innovative and simple product design and use. The competitive advantage of the proposed business include accessibility through the use of a comprehensive distribution network, excellent customer service and product design based on need. The proposed business is a private pension provider rendering trusteeship, custodian and fund management services. The company is a limited liability company with a proposed stated capital of GHS3, 000,000.00. Each of the business owners will raise GHS90, 000.00 each and the difference will be funded using bank credit lines, private investors and asset financing. Undertaking the proposed business plan provides the following findings: Ghanas economy remains positive and stable providing generous growth now and in the future New pension reforms and creation of new industry provides both threats and opportunity Vast untapped informal market available to the new industry Current shortfalls in the national pension will be catered for by private providers Proposed business provides opportunity for development of local capacity in pension design and management With robust regulatory system and effective strategic planning this propose business has a fair chance of succeeding and growing into a very successful business and being part of the development of the private pension industry in Ghana. 1.0 The Introduction Research Background and Motives Over the years concern had been raised about the current state of the Ghanaian social security system which has been characterized by inadequate benefits which is extremely difficult to live on if not mere impossible. As pointed out by the International Social security Association (2003), Social security systems in Africa are characteristically too exclusive and inadequate of which Ghana is not exception. Like other social security systems in Africa, Ghanas social security system covers only the formal workforce, which constitutes a small fraction, usually no more than 20% of the total labor force. This inherent characteristic of the social security system makes social security exclusive, as those outside the formal sectors do not have access to social security or a national pension. Furthermore due to the relatively small number of contributors to the national social security scheme, benefits under the social security scheme is inadequate. Ghana like many other African countries has institutions, laws and government structures that were adopted from their colonial masters without much modifications and thought. The institutional structures were most often designed to meet the goals and objectives of the colonial masters who at that time were the elite. One may wonder why social security systems that are meant to provide protection for all in society tends to cover only a small fraction of society. The international social security association points out that, most social security systems like many other things were adopted from the colonial masters. These social security systems were really intended to cover a small body of employees who were at the time working in the colonial administration and mine workers. This meant that all others outside this scope fell outside the social security system. This inherently remained, as most countries even after independence were unable to devise social protection programs that were tailored to the needs and circumstances of the people. Based on the background above, I am motivated through this business proposal to highlight the importance of the development of a much-needed private pensions scheme to augment the existing national social security system and also to provide those who are outside the national social security system an avenue to secure their futures and have enough to live on when they retire. 1.2 The Motives The motive for undertaking this business proposal is to bridge the gap created by the current social security structure, which excludes those within the informal sector of the Ghanaian economy. Secondly, private pension plans will also provide extra revenue to those who have retired as the current benefits under the national plan is woefully inadequate. At the end of this start up business proposal I hope to be able to: Understand current economic and business environment in Ghana Understand the structure of Ghanas social security system To analyze current regulatory framework in place and its likely impact on the operations of the start up To analyze the development of the chosen market and industry To determine the essential inputs for the start-up and future development plans To analyze any academic theory on successful business start-ups 1.3 The Objective The main objective of this business plan dissertation is to: Identify if any, opportunities and challenges for a private pensions company in Ghana With the opportunities I have identified and challenges write a start up business plan for a private pension company in Ghana Provide information on procedure to follow when setting up a company in Ghana In this write up the main focus will be on the company operating in one specific area of pensions which is the tier three of the pensions act. Long-term strategies may see the company evolve to extend other pensions/ savings products. 1.4 Research Methodology The aim of this write up is to put together a business plan for a start up private pension company in Ghana based on sound research on the subject matter of private pensions in the chosen market and academic theory on the principles entrepreneurship and business management. The research therefore will mainly be based on secondary data from credible governmental resources and non-governmental agencies. I will also make use of academic articles, journals and industry reports. 1.5 Structure The write up will be split into five (5) chapters with details of each chapter as follows: Chapter 1: The first chapter will have the introduction, which contains the background, the motives and objective, brief research methodology, structure of the write up and a comparative analysis of social security systems in the developed and underdeveloped worlds. Chapter 2: Economic Overview of chosen market, history and importance of social security in chosen market, overview of the social security system now and then, social security structure, and challenges facing the national social security system Chapter 3: Description of the business idea, marketing plan/strategy, pricing, mission and vision, Human Resources. Chapter 4: Chapter four will be the financial plan. In this section will include financial assumptions and financial projections for the next five years. Chapter 5: The conclusion, this section will contain exit strategies and also discuss any immediate or future impact of the proposed business on the Ghanaian economy. This section will also summarize key success factors of the proposed business. Chapter 2 Introduction Under this chapter I will look at the economic overview, economic performance and outlook of the chosen market for the proposed business, I will then go further to look at the development of social security/ pensions in Ghana, and then look at the overview of the social security system of the chosen market, Ghana. As earlier stated under my aims for this project, I seek to provide some insight as to what it takes to start a business in Ghana, therefore under this section I will also provide information or insight in relation to what procedures needed to follow when setting up a business in Ghana. 2.0. Economic Overview of Ghana The Republic of Ghana is a West African country with land area of 92,100 square miles, which is boarded by Cote DIvoire, Burkina Faso, Togo and Gulf of Guinea. Ghana has always been known as a country of great natural resources, hence the nickname, The Gold Coast. Ghana is rich in gold, timber, diamond and cocoa and has an economy that is heavily dependent on agriculture. Ghana remains one of the leading producers of Gold and Cocoa in the world. Agriculture in Ghana accounts for 37% of GDP and employs an estimated 55% of the national workforce. It must however be noted that agriculture is still largely small scale, non- commercial and not mechanized. Ghanas economy is one of the most stable and fast growing economies in Africa and has achieved impressive growth as a result of the discovery of oil and natural gases. With such impressive growth and relative stability in the macro-economic indicators, Ghana attained a lower middle-income economy status according to the World Bank, however youth unemployment and poverty continues to be a major issue. 25% of Ghanas youth are unemployed and 37% of the population currently lives on less than $1.25 a day. Despite a 14.4 % growth in Ghanas economy in 2001 according to the World Bank, Ghanas external debt over the last 3 years has increased by 125% from $8 billion in 2008 to $18 billion in 2011. In terms of investment, Ghana has Africas 3rd largest stock exchange with South Africa and Nigeria ahead of Ghana respectively. 2.1 Economic Performance and Outlook Ghanas economic performance over the last decade has been impressive. GDP average annual growth rate was 6% between 2005 and 2007, increased to 7.3% in 2008 but however declined to 3.9% in 2009 on the back of the global financial and economic crisis. Inflation increased by 41.7% from 12.7% in 2007 to 18.1% in 2008 however due to effective economic policies and austerity measures inflation for the last 3 years has steadily falling to its current rate of 9% as at 2011 for the last 9 months since. Increase in non-oil imports and income outflows widened Ghanas current account deficit by some 38% at the end of 2011. Despite these challenges, Ghanas economy has outgrown the global economy for the past 4 years. Whilst the global economy grew at an annual average rate of 3%, Ghanas annual average growth rate has been 6.5%. The adoption of austerity measures to cut public spending and the stability of macroeconomic indicators have helped Ghana survive probably the worst part of the global economic meltdown and it remains one of the most promising economies in Africa. Based on the indicators above on the economic health of the country, Ghanas medium-term growth remains positive, largely driven by investments in the mining industries, public infrastructure and commercial agriculture according to the World Bank. 2.2 Development of Pensions Scheme in Ghana Pension systems in Ghana date as far back as the colonial era. The first kind of pension system was introduced in Ghana in 1946. The pension system was a non-contributory pensions scheme and its aim was to cater to the retirement benefits of those who worked within the colonial administration and also included mine workers. Kpessa (2010) noted that Ghanas social security system at the time was designed, as a means of encouraging loyalty and efficiency within the colonial service as a result was quite exclusive. Like most programs introduced during this era, old age income protection policies were limited to urban dwellers especially Europeans and a few Africans working in the colonial bureaucracy. It was not until 1950, the Pension Ordinance No.42 (Cap 30) and Superannuation schemes was established in an effort to have a social security system in place that covered a greater portion of Ghanaian workers. It was established as a pension scheme for public servants in the Gold Coast. These schemes covered certified teachers, University lecturers and all government workers however a vast majority of Ghanaians were unable to benefit from this scheme (Adjei, 2000). In 1965, the Social Security Act (No. 279) was passed to cover all private and public sector workers who were not covered under the Pensions Ordinance No.42. The scheme initially started as a provident fund, providing benefit for old age, invalidity and survivor benefit. This Act was repealed and the social security and national insurance act (SSNIT) was established under NRCD 127. The trust was established to administer the new social security scheme. The scheme was later converted to a social security pensions scheme and in 1991 turned into a defined benefit scheme following the enactment of the Social Security Act 1991 bringing some level of adequacy into workers pensions. For a worker to qualify for old age benefit, the worker must have worked for a minimum of 240 months and be at least 60 years of age. Workers in the extractive industries such as mining however have a mandatory retirement age of 58 years under which they qualify for old age benefits. For workers who have been injured at work, they may qualify for payment under the invalidity benefit section of the social security system. Benefit is payable over a period of 12 months. If a retiree dies before reaching the retirement age his or her benefit is calculated as the present value of all contributions and paid to the surviving spouse or dependents. The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has four major functions: Collection of contributions Record keeping keeping up to date records of all contributing members Processing and payment of benefits Pensions fund management 2.3 Overview of Social Security/ Pensions in Ghana A universal social security/ pensions scheme in Ghana has not been in existence for so long having been established in the 1990s; earlier forms of social security were exclusive. The Social Security Pensions Scheme (SSPS) was established in 1991 under the Social Security Law PNDCL 247 and under the trusteeship of the social security and national insurance trust (SSNIT). Twenty-five years prior to this, Ghana run a provident scheme established under the social security act of 1965 (Act 279). Under the 1991 scheme, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust collected the contributions of the Ghanaian worker. The Act provided for compulsory coverage for workers in establishments that employ at least five workers. An establishment with less than five employees had the option to join the scheme, but there was no compulsion (Kumado Gockel, 2003). However, the following categories of workers, although they employed more than five persons, were exempt by law from joining the scheme; members of the Armed Forces, the Police Service and the Prison Service; Foreigners in the diplomatic missions; and Senior members of the universities and research institutions. Funding of defined contribution schemes is based on contributions made by the employer and the employee on behalf on the employee. These contributions are invested and when the employee reaches retirement age, becomes permanently incapacitated or dies prior to retirement; the total contributions together with returns on the investment are paid as a lump sum to the employee or his/her dependents (Kpessa, 2010) Under the scheme the Ghanaian workers total contribution constitutes a total of 17.5% of his salary to the scheme towards his pension and the contribution structure is designed as follows: Employees 5% of employees salary Employer 12.5% of employees salary Total Contribution 17.5% of employees pay Under Ghanas pension scheme there are three basic benefits, which include Old Age Pension, Invalidity Pension and Death Survivor Payment. Pension benefits in Ghana are indexed annually using the average rate of increase in the contributions inflow from the previous year. This is done to prevent any distortions in the financial equilibrium of the scheme. In order to qualify for benefits under the pensions scheme one must meet the eligibility requirement and amounts payable under each section are as follows according to the Social Security and National insurance Trust: Old Age Benefit To qualify for old age full pension payment, a worker should have contributed to the scheme for a minimum of 240 months, which is equivalent to 20 years, and should have attained either the voluntary retirement age of 55 or compulsory retiring age of 60. The law applies differently to persons who have worked in hazardous conditions such as the mines. Such categories of workers under the law qualifies for a full pension at the age of 55 provided the worker has been engaged in such work for 240 months or more. The minimum pension payable is 50% of the average of the 3 best years salary for a minimum contribution period of 240 months. For any additional month served after the 240 months, a worker earns a pension right of 0.125%, i.e. 1.5% for every 12 months in addition to the 50% start off. Thus, a worker can theoretically earn up to 80% pension when he shall have worked and contributed to the scheme for 40 years. As earlier mentioned, workers who opt for early retirement at age 55 or retire anytime before they are 60 years are entitled to a reduced pension. Benefit due is calculated on an increasing scale from the age of 55 years, meaning that those who retire closer to the statutory retirement age receive a higher percentage of their full pension than those who dont. Percentages of full benefit due are as follows: Age 55, 60% of full pension; 56, 67.5% of full pension; 57, 75.0% of full pension; 58, 82.5% of full pension; 59, 90.0% of full pension. Pensions are paid monthly, however retirees have an option of receiving payment in advance equivalent to 25% of 12 years pension as a lump sum and subsequently be on a reduced pension. If a worker before attaining the age of 60 is unable to have contributed the minimum 240 months to the scheme he is entitled to receive all his actual contributions plus interest at half the prevailing interest rate on government treasury bills. DEATH/ SURVIVORS With regard to survivors benefit, if a contributor dies while still a member, his dependents qualify for a lump sum of the earned pension. When a member contributes to the Fund for 240 months before dying, a lump sum equal to the value of his pension for 12 years shall be paid to his survivors. If a member dies without having contributed to the fund for 240 months, the payment to his survivors will be his proportional pension for a period of twelve years. Where a member who has retired dies before he is 72, his survivors will be paid in lump sum the unexpired pension up to age 72. INVALIDITY PENSION To qualify for invalidity pension, a member shall have contributed to the Fund for 12 months within the last 36 months before becoming invalid. In addition, the member should have been certified permanently invalid and incapable of gainful employment by a medical board including 2.4 Parallel Pensions Scheme One may be tempted to think that the pensions scheme being administered by the Social security and national insurance trust covers all workers in Ghana, however as indicated above some sections of the working public are exempt from the national pension scheme. This is because such workers are covered under a different pensions scheme with pre-dates the national pensions scheme. The scheme, which is affectionately, called CAP 30 (name derived from Chapter 30 of the Pension Ordinance of 1946) provides pensions for Civil Servants and the Armed Forces and some teachers. Today there are still members of these working sectors who are covered under CAP 30. Such members contribute 5% of their pre-tax salary, which is nevertheless not saved but recycled into the Consolidated Fund. However, it is still a non-contributory plan for the armed forces, the police, and the prisons services. These employees take home all of their earnings; no deductions for pension coverage. This aside there are other features of the CAP 30 that offers superior value as compared to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust including: 10 years for full retirement vs. 20 at SSNIT; 70% of final salary compared to 50% of average of three highest years salary at SSNIT CAP 30 pension payments are indexed annually to current salary scales Ghanas social security system lacks cohesion as evidenced in the disparities that exists under the SSNIT and CAP 30 an there is an urgent need for the harmonization of the social security system in Ghana by replacing the current systems with a comprehensive all inclusive system 2.4 Pensions Reform in Ghana and overview of National Pensions Act 2008 Over the years concerns have been raised about the disparities and seemingly greater benefit under the CAP 30 as compared to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) pensions scheme. Public sector workers further agitated over the inadequacies of the current social security benefits and its inability to sustain a respectable life during retirement. Furthermore, the current social security system has failed to include those in the informal sector who constitute about 80 percent of the working force. The road to social security reform in Ghana began in July 2004, to provide a universal pension scheme for all Ghanaian workers following the agitations described above which lead to the drafting and passing of the National Pensions Act 2008. The Act is divided into four parts; the first part talks about the establishment of a National Pensions Regulatory Authority that will be responsible for the regulation of pensions schemes in Ghana as well as a three-tier contributory pensions scheme. The second part deals with the basic national social security scheme; Part Three provides for occupational pension schemes, provident fund and personal pension schemes and management of the schemes and finally the general provisions of the Act is contained in part four. According to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust, under the new Pensions Act 2008, there is a three tier contributory scheme, which replaces the current Social Security Pensions Scheme and CAP 30. Under the new scheme a total contributory amount of 18.5% of a workers monthly salary will be paid towards their pension and this is distributed between the first two tiers. The first two tiers are mandatory and the third tier is voluntary. Below are the features of each tier: First Tier The first tier is the basic national social security scheme, which incorporates an improved system of SSNIT benefits. This tier is mandatory for all employees in both the private and public sectors. The mandatory basic national social security scheme is to be managed by SSNIT. Contribution to the first tier will be 13.5% of an employees monthly salary. Whilst this tier is mandatory for all employees in the public and private sectors, self-employed members of the working class have an option to join the scheme and are under no obligation to do so. Of the 13.5%, 2.5% will be deducted and transferred to NHIF. Benefit due under this tier will be calculated using the average of the highest 3 annual salaries ÃÆ'- 50% +1.5% of every additional 12 months contributed. A contributor under the first tier cannot be less than the age of 15 and not older than the age of 45 years when joining the scheme. Second Tier The second tier is occupational (or work-based) pension scheme and it is a mandatory scheme for all employees, however this tier will be privately managed. This tier was designed primarily to give contributors higher lump sum benefits compared to what is presently available under the SSNIT or Cap 30 pension schemes. A total of 5% of an employees monthly salary shall be allocated to the second tier provided the employee falls within the age limit stipulated under the first tier. If the worker however, falls outside the stated age limit, all of the 18.5% contribution shall be transferred to the second tier. The voluntarily provident fund and personal pension schemes are to be managed by approved trustees, licensed by a National Pensions Regulatory Authority and pension fund managers and custodians, licensed by the Security and Exchange Commission and registered with the Authority. Under this tier a defined benefit is payable to a retiree, spouse or dependent after termination of service, retirement or death. Third Tier The third tier is a voluntary provident fund and personal pension schemes, which provides tax benefit incentives for workers who opt for this scheme in addition to the first two. As earlier mentioned, the previous pensions scheme was relatively exclusive and did not provide cover for 80% of Ghanas working population. The introduction of the third tier is an effort to address the issues concerning the old pensions system, which by design excluded those in the informal sector and did not provide avenue for the citizenry to arrange their personal pensions in addition to the state pension. The aim of the third tier therefore I believe, was to provide those in the informal sector to have their future secured by contributing to a private scheme and also provide those already covered under the national scheme to augment their existing benefits should it still be seen as inadequate. This tier is fully funded and is also privately managed by licensed trustees that will want to provide private pension schemes. 2.5 Governance A National Pensions Regulatory Authority (the Authority) has been established to regulate both public and private pension schemes in the country. The Authority will approve, regulate and monitor Trustees, Pension Fund Managers, Custodians and other institutions relating to pension matters. To ensure that contributors interests are adequately protected, the National Pension Act has in-built safeguards. These include stringent approval and registration criteria by the Pensions Regulatory Authority; separation of functions of Trustees, Fund managers and Custodians; on going monitoring among several others. Trustees licensed by the Authority would be required to take out adequate insurance to indemnify scheme members against any losses of scheme assets caused by malfeasance or misconduct of the trustees or their service providers. Among other impacts, the new scheme will ensure improved living standards of the elderly; financial autonomy and independence of retirees; increased national savings and availability of long-term funds for economic development; and the Promotion of growth and development of the capital, mortgage and insurance markets. CHAPTER 3 THE BUSINESS IDEA AND PLAN 3.1 Background In 2004, the government of Ghana started the process of reforming Ghanas pensions system and in 2008 passed the National Pensions Act 2008, which saw the birth of a new pensions system in Ghana, the establishment of a new pensions regulatory body and most importantly the participation of the private sector in the delivery of social security in Ghana. The opportunity presented through the National Pensions Act 2008, is what has motivated me to write this business proposal for the establishment of a pensions trust in Ghana to participate in the third tier of Ghanas pensions System. The new pension scheme will comprise two mandatory schemes and a voluntary scheme as follows: First tier which is a mandatory basic national social security scheme will be managed by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) Second tier occupational (or work-based) pension scheme will also be mandatory for all employees but privately managed by approved and licensed trustees Third tier voluntary provident fund and personal pension schemes, supported by tax benefit incentives to provide additional funds for workers in both the formal and informal sectors who want to make voluntary contributions to augment their state pensions benefit. The Second tier and the voluntary third tier will be privately managed by approved trustees licensed by the Pensions Regulatory Authority with the assistance of pension fund managers and custodians registered by the Authority. It is within the third tier that a business opportunity exists for the establishment of a trustee company that will provide pension products to individuals and organizations in Ghana. 3.2 Benefits of the New Pensions Scheme The new pension scheme offers a number of benefits above the old system. According to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), workers within the formal and informal sectors stand to benefit from the following under the new pensions scheme: Provision of Superannuation: Reduction of contribution period from 240 months to 180 months Full benefit increased from 50% of the average of the highest three years earnings to 80% Provision of healthcare premium for all contributors to social security pensions scheme Occupational Scheme: provides lump sum benefits to contributors after attaining the age of 50 years. Survivors benefit calculations increased from 12 to 15 years Using lump sum benefits under the second tier to secure mortgages meaning workers can obtain their own houses by using their lump sum benefit as collateral Better controls over personal pensions under the second and third tier

The Algerian Civil War 1992-2002 :: essays research papers fc

â€Å"Thus, what motivates men to slay the enemy is anger,† Sun Tzu says in The Art of War. The conflict between Algerian Islamic fundamentalists and the Algerian military backed government is rooted in anger. The conflict, which began as skirmishes between government forces and Islamic fundamentalists, has taken on the proportions of a civil war as fundamentalists carried out kidnappings, assassinations and other forms of civil disturbance. The government has tried pacifying the Muslims by including Islamic leaders in the government, but extreme violence committed by both parties in the conflict has made a peaceful solution difficult to achieve. This violence has claimed the lives of an estimated 100,000 people in the years between 1990 and 2002. The Roots of Anger The clash between the fundamentalists and the military government stems from Algeria’s experimentation with political liberalization. The attempt to create more points of view and more political parties in the government has backfired horrendously. The violence of modern day Algeria stems from the failure of mild democratization in the North African country. Following nomination by the National Liberation Front (FLN) party, Chadli Bendjedid was elected President in 1979 and re-elected in 1984 and 1988. The National Liberation Front ruled as a virtual one-party regime until the political system was reformed in 1989. Antigovernment sentiment stemming from corruption, housing shortages, unemployment, and other severe economic and social problems boosted the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) despite the party’s quite public commitment to theocratic rule under Islamic law. This seemingly innocuous act was actually quite revolutionary. For the first time, an Arab country had authorized the creation of a political party that had made the creation of an Islamic republic its main goal . A new constitution was adopted in 1989 that allowed the formation of political parties other than the FLN. It also removed the armed forces, which had run the government since the days of the 1980s, from a designated role in the operation of the government. Between 1989 and 1990, forty-four new political parties emerged, many with distinct social agendas. These agendas included human rights, independent women organizations and other cultural movements . Among the scores of parties that sprang up under the new constitution, the militant Islamic Salvation Front was the most successful, winning more than 50% of all votes cast in elections in 1990 as well as in the first stage of national elections held in December 1991.

Julias Caesar :: essays research papers

cripay dividends for the remainder of his career, Cromwell demanded that both officers and men meet the highest standards of moral character and honesty. He expected instant responsiveness to commands and forbade looting, swearing, or an Despite his age, Cromwell, at forty-three, raised a cavalry troop, his first military command. Following criteria that would pay dividends for the remainder of his career, Cromwell demanded that both officers and men meD or was born in the year 100 BC into a patrian family who claimed decendancy from the kings of Alba Langa and through them, Aeneas of Troy whose mother was the goddess Venus. Caesar's name Julius comes from Iulius, the family name. This comes from Iulus, the name of Venus' son. At the time of his birth, Rome was still a republic and the empire was only really beginning. The senators ruled, motivated by the greed of power in the hope of becoming either a consul or a praetor, the two senior posts which carried imperium, the legal right to command an army. From these posts it was possible to, with the help of the army at your command, conquer new territories and so gain a triumph and the pleasure of knowing that your name would be remembered forever in statues and inscribed monuments, paid for by the spoils of the war. et the The most used method of transport the romans used was the horse and the chariot. Simply because they did not have much other ways to travel. When people traveled they also could have walked but it is tiring and that would of affected the way they would of fought performance wise. When they wanted to travel they used a sailing ship or a row boat. This was also used by the Roman Army because it was powerful and affective. ghest standards of moral character and honesty. He expected instant responsiveness to comma From early times right down to the 3rd century A.D, the Roman army was based on its legions. A legion varied in strength from 4,000 to 6,000 men, and was subdivided onto ten cohorts. Its leader used the title of legatus. His staff officers were called tribuni. Senior non-commissioned officers were called centurions, who varied greatly in rank. The soldiers of the legion were specifically picked men. They were all Roman citizens and received a higher pay than the auxillary troop s - that is, foreigners who serve with the Roman army.

Best/Worst Teacher

Dear Mrs. Jane: My name is Jessica Smith, I was a 5th grade student of yours in during the 1996/1997 school year. At that time you may have known me as Jessica Cuevas. I am now in college pursuing a career in teaching. Recently I have been asked to write a letter to my favorite teacher and you were the first to pop in mind. Till this day I can think back and remember sitting in your class the first day of school, your desk and chalkboard outlined   with your collection of trolls! I knew right then that you were going to be a fun teacher.I remember being confused because there was no wall separating us from the the other classroom (Mrs. Sue’s 5th grade class), yet excited to hear what it was all about. Before attending your class I wasn't very engaged in learning or going to school, I didn't have many friends, I had just moved to town the year before. As soon as that day ended I went home eager to return to school the next day, and this feeling never changed for the whole yea r. You were always smiling, and very energetic when you interacted with our class.When you would explain our assignments you would get us excited and make it into a competition with our neighboring class. The marbles in the Jar, oh.. how i loved this on going game. The winning class had an option to pick from many random prizes. My favorite was the half day reading parties. We would bring our pillows and blankets from home and for the first half of the day we would read, and the second half we could play board games, listen to music, or watch movies. I was always motivated to do my best and to try my hardest,   in order to win the marbles.You had many ways of keeping me excited,motivated and interested in going to school. You opened my eyes to a fun,creative learning environment. You made feel like a friend and not just some student. I hope to someday be able to inspire students as you have inspired me. Thank you for making a wonderful impact so early in my life. I will carry thos e values throughout my teaching career. Sincerely, Jessica Smith Worst Teacher Letter Dear Mr. John: Teaching is not for everyone.I can understand how teaching high school students can be annoying and frustrating at times. We have multiple mood swings, and are trying to figure out how to fit in, however i don't feel that we should be ignored or treated like robots with no feeling. School should be a place we feel comfortable to go to on a daily bases, teachers should always be someone we can talk to and ask questions . From the very first day of class you came across as very strict and rude. You gave us one direction that we were to follow each and every day for the rest of the school year.That was to always bring our book to class, outline the chapter, answer the questions to the chapter, and do the written essay at the end of the chapter, everything should be completed and placed on your desk as we walked out. We were not to talk, get out of our seats or ask questions. No exceptio ns! Zero tolerance you made sure to get that point across. One day I forgot my book at home, I felt intimidated to go to class not knowing how you would react, other teachers would have just let me share with another classmate but not you.You made me stand in front of the classroom the whole period holding the eraser against the chalkboard. It was pretty humiliating, on the bright side of things I never forgot my book again. Every day was the same thing, just a different chapter. You wouldn't even greet us when we walked thru the door, we would just sit and get started. You sat at your desk reading books,newspaper, and magazines while never acknowledging us. How could you call yourself a teacher I always wondered? I strongly wish you have changed your ways, and rediscover the passion for teaching I hope you once had.Sincerely, Jessica Smith Why the Profession? At age eleven my family began to do foster care. We always had two or four kids ranging from newborns to teenagers. All the children came from broken house holds, many exposed to drugs, abuse and neglect. They all seemed to share the same qualities low self esteem, trouble trusting, adjusting ,adapting, and staying focused in school. They needed someone to love and care for them. All these frustrations and unhappiness caused many of them to have behavioral problems.My mother opened her heart to help them with all these issues, having the patience to teach them values and principles,bonding and investing genuine love and care for these children. As I grew older I began to notice the impact we as a family where making in these kids lives. I contributed in every way I could to try to help. At this point in life I knew I wanted to work with children. I have always been the creative type, I love all forms of art. I attended the Fashion institute of Design and Merchandise, and while I was there I realized that all my best projects and assignments were aimed   towards children.Any time I could pick my target audience it would be children. Children is what I know, they influence and inspire me. I   realized   that children are my passion. This is why I chose this profession. I see myself teaching kindergarten or first grade. I want to be the first to plant the seed. I want kids to enjoy learning by allowing them to explore in creative ways. Teaching them to share, and the basic fundamentals they will need for the future. Children this age group are the funnest to me, they have so many questions, they are craving to learn,seeking a new adventure every day.I want   to create an environment where they feel comfortable and inspired to learn. I also like the feeling of being needed, it gives me great satisfaction to be able to make a difference by simply being someone they can talk to, share their feelings and stories with, someone they can trust. You never know what kind of issues children have at home,for some kids school is a way to escape. I love to see children smile, laugh,clap an d get excited when they accomplish a new task. That alone brings me so much joy and keeps me motivated to be the best teacher I can be.

Developing a Software Program

After  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required. When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technologyimplementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibilit y and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  thatsoftware  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture ofsoftware program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a bet ter result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gathe r a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required. When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture of  software program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  thatsoftware  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better  resultsafter  implementation  of these  steps  architecture  to develop a software program is required.  When  these wireless systems developed then these should cope with the problem fairly on real time. If an  architecture ofsoftware program is  designed  in  such  a  way that  it is  safe  for security flexibility and other issues as well. If technology is implemented selected in an improved way then  an  information  system  can work well. If there are  leaks in the design and  programming  tactics and technology  implementation then there would be a  lot  of  leak in  the  system  as well that result in a very severe or drastic problem. In this way it can be say  that  software  programs  that developed to resolve a problem needs  attention in  all these metrics to work upon and to get a better result. If there is a better program written by a programmer who is  reliable  and  portable efficient and  of strong functionality then  fulfill  the better requirement in this case. Whereas if we are talking about the wireless information systems things become more sensitive as we are dealing on real time and gather a lot of security risks. Thats why after applying and implementing rules and regulations and following the standards will get the better results.

Our impact on the environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Our impact on the environment - Essay Example ties includes the element of pollution, which is currently a major global threat that has been increasing in a dramatic rate due to the increase of industrialization and other human activities that involve use of energy. This essay is going to focus on the impacts of human activities on the environment, analyze how different sources of energy affect the environment as well recommend usage of the most sustainable and friendly sources of energy. Carried out studies have proven that one of the major factors contributing to the high levels of pollution to the environment is the type of sources of energy that human beings use in fueling their industrial activities (Jaccard 63). Most of these sources of energies used in almost all countries are nonrenewable and highly unsustainable, a factor that have made them a chief threat to the environment (Jaccard 65). However, some sources are known to have more adverse effects to the environment than others with oil, coal and natural gas being the main sources that environmentalists blame much for the high level of pollution in the modern world. Statistics show that oil is the most common source of energy with oil being used to fuel over 80% of all the activities undertaken on daily basis such as in factories, cooking and for transport. However, combustion of oil leads to emission of greenhouse gases that have detrimental effects to the environment (Curley 95). The main constituents of products released after burning oil, natural gas and coal are carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide that have significantly contributed to global warming or climate change. In addition, combusted fossil fuels lead to formation of other harmful gases which ends up forming acids such as carbonic acids and sulfuric acid. Carbon dioxide and suphurous gaseous produces once fossils are combusted combine with moisture or rain in the atmosphere to form acidic rainfall. Acidic rains are a major threat to plant and fish health once they get on to the ground.