Friday, December 20, 2019

Markdown Pricing Optimization at Bloomindales - 1215 Words

Chris Watt, Sarah Elmer, Kyle Luithly 1 May 2015 Pricing and Revenue Management Implementation of Pricing and Revenue Optimization Introduction Perhaps one of the most difficult managerial decisions in the 21st century is the decision to make a decision. Analysis paralysis, endless meetings, and corporate structure have made it painstakingly difficult to come to any real conclusions. So when the Chief Financial Officer, Bruce Berman, of Bloomindale’s was tasked with decision to implement ProfitLogic’s Pricing Optimization (PO) system, he called upon Daniel Gabbay, an analyst in the finance division, to make sense of the numbers and guide his decision making process. Berman was considering implementing a PO system to quantify the markdown†¦show more content†¦Fortunately, performing these non-parametric techniques for just a few of the possibilities would give insight as to whether we were on the right track and the time spent analyzing the data in this manner could prevent a long arduous path to an erroneous conclusion. Statistics is a science, and like all science, it requires testing. And after this initial testing and concluding that the PO System does increase revenue—this assumption is perfectly reasonable to make since ProfitLogic is still in business—we could then build a model to determine by how much revenue will be increased and what the payback period might be. Building the Regression Model As previously mentioned, no analysis is given for the regression model, so we shall at least attempt to ask the appropriate questions needed to make an intelligent decision. We begin by looking at the structure of the regression model prior to performing the diagnostic procedures. First, we must understand why the consultants chose to model the revenue in the markdown period as a product of the observed performance in the regular period, the PL effect, Department effect, the promotions effect, and a constant. If there are no PL effects, department effects, or promotions effects, then the revenue is simply a function of the overserved performance in the regular price period. This is logical, as adding in an â€Å"effect† simply scales the revenue.

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Analysis of Leadership Styles And Skills Sample

Question: Discuss about the Analysis of Leadership Styles and Skills. Answer: Introduction The current dynamism and the ever changing business environment have affected the way businesses are conducted in industries today. The tremendous creativity and innovations experienced in almost all sectors of the economies around the globe have changed the way processes are executed in the industries. Companies domiciled in States like China, Singapore, United States of America, Australia and more have achieved a lot from the use of technology. Technology has remained a major factor that most organizations use to compete on the job market favorably (Gary, et al. 2013). Currently, companies have embraced total quality management that has positively resulted in the record of pretty performances. However, still, some companies fail to meet their objectives despite the use of this technology. The failure to meet the key objectives is attributed to some factors like poor management, non-alignment of the strategic goals with the key process, adverse business environment, inappropriate use of technology, and others (Kowske, Anthony, 2007, p.21-41). Although, the outlined factors carry an equal magnitude for their relevance to the organization, the coordinator and planner of activities remains the human resources. For instance, a company may have funds to acquire the up to date technology, employ staff with the highest level of academic qualifications, acquire any equipment and machinery but without effective leadership, no good results can be achieved. It is, therefore, essential for business organizations that wish to explore their potentials to expand and grow, to consider the capability of the management (Michael, 2016, p. 234-247). Most developed companies have not only succeeded because of the use of technology but because of the effective management. Current studies by scholars clearly portray the role of leadership and management as among the primary elements for the other factors of production. However, when viewed, it is quite simple to say all factors of production carry an equal relevance in an organization. Yes, it is right, but labor factor supersedes the others in that it is the one obligated in combining the other three factors of production. The paper has, therefore, addressed the entire aspects of leadership. In particular, a case study explaining the success of Vodafone in the supply chain management. It is noted that the company made some changes in the supply chain department by introducing a new leader Mr. Detlef Schultz who successfully employed an effective and workable management system. The awards he received were just forms of recognition for a good work done. While exploring the topic of leadership, two main sub-topics have been covered. First and foremost, the paper has identified the appropriate leadership style for the transformation of Vodafone supply chain department. Secondly, the paper has further explored effective leadership skills to make transformational changes in the supply chain department at Vodafone. Leadership refers to the ability to guide other people when executing a particular project. In the organizational setup, leadership is a general term that means guiding, motivating, influencing others towards the achievement of the corporate objectives. A leader is a person accountable to the stakeholders of the organization. He/she is the person that links the shareholders with the employees and briefs the former about the performance of the organization (Amagoh, 2009, p. 989-999). Also, leaders are instrumental in the establishment of the strategic goals of the company and aligning them with both the short and long-term objectives. However, a good leader needs an intrinsic motivation and should be driven by working towards achieving organizational goals. Such an individual is supposed to have the entire organizational picture in mind (Wang, et al. 2010). The comprehensive grasp of strategic organization needs saves time on making assessing the nature of the decision to be made at a particular time. An Effective Leader lays up appropriate measures to facilitate the assessment and evaluation of employees contribution to the organization. Also, a perfect leader applies motivational methods and coercive methods to influence and streamline the employees towards a common purpose. The command of peoples trusts, embrasure of teamwork, creation of a Conducive environment, leaders participation in some activities and provision of financial support are just some of the primary measures that contribute to the success of a leader. Leadership style that Schultz could apply at Vodafone in the Supply Chain Management The management of any competitive company employs a distinctive leadership style that suits the operational systems of the institution. Of late, some companies are applying a combination of various leadership styles. The choice of a particular system depends on the nature of tasks and the intended objectives the management will want to achieve. In most cases, the management selects a method that is cheap and easy to implement. Vodafone is a very competitive company and features the great performing businesses in the globe. The administrators of the company always work smart to ensure its leading competitors like Motorola does not put it out of the market (Du, et al. 2012). Therefore, with such objectives in mind, the supply chain department remains a key focus in ensuring all the international markets are adequately stocked with Vodafone products. The transformation of Vodafone global supply chain required the application of an inclusive leadership style. Since Schultz was new in leading the company in the supply chain and procurement department, it was a calculated more to create a participative environment. Once the employees feel involved in designing and establishment of an idea, they tend to apply all of their ability in ensuring that the intended purpose is achieved (Du, et al. 2012). It is argued that the determination from the workers in meeting an objective that they were involved in the planning process is meant to prove the boss right. Simply, their efforts are meant to show how relevant they are, and a good leader should develop a third eye in seeing and realizing employees of such caliber. Therefore, effective leadership approaches workable in the Supply chain and procurement department of Vodafone includes; transformational, participative, and transactional styles. To start with, transformational leadership refers to the one that values the importance of effective communication in from the administration. The leaders employ motivation to influence the employees in meeting the set objectives. The approach is characterized by the application of precise, clear and appropriate communication from the management to the employees (Onen, 2008, p. 298-300). Also, smaller roles are usually assigned to workers after a clear view of the expectation is has been explained to them. Secondly, transactional leadership is a style that seems appropriate for the company. The method involves team members in setting of organization goals. The leader is also assigned tasks to perform while other duties are allocated to the team members to lead the entire fraternity in executing distinct roles. After the sealing of an agreement between the employees and a transactional leader, the workers agree to follow the guidelines while working towards achieving the predetermined objectives. The style obligates the manager to evaluate and review the results periodically. Rewards are given to those who hit targets. For those who fail to perform are punished or taken through training. This initiative aligns those who under-performs with the relevant skills applicable in solving matters of the same requirements. If the employees that undergoes new training fails to deliver, the leader usually lacks other option but remains justified to instill any form of punishment. And lastly but not least, a participative autocratic leadership style was also appropriate for the transformations in Vodafone Company. A participative system values contributions from other members of the organization. The employees can get contribute and air their views, but the management just uses the useful ideas to build on a decision. In simple terms, the management has the absolute powers of making the decisions. Perhaps, the employees likes the leadership style since it makes them feel that their opinions matter in the running of the organization (Zhang, et al. 2013). However, a participative system is one of the effective approaches to be employed in an established organization. Although Schultz applied a combination of the discussed styles, which is quite well, an autocratic style was also appropriate to be fully applied in the supply chain management of Vodafone. As a matter of fact, participative leadership style works well in the current fluid and changing business environment. The involvement of employees in planning activities reduces the chances of resistance during the change process. The system facilitates earlier communication of plans and strategies by the management. Since the department was still under transformation due to change in leadership, reliance on participative style could be appropriate and lead the company towards growth. With the existence of teamwork, able leadership to coordinate various organizations resources, the chances for success of the company becomes significant (Parnell, 2010). Leadership skills These refer to the qualities leaders are expected to exhibit while guiding, monitoring and leading others. Sometimes, a great leader is born with distinctive characters that make him/her a perfect leader from the word go. However, leadership is a taught skill where one starts from a low grounds and emerges as a great administrator. Based on our case study, Schultz proved to be an effective leader and managed to lead the supply chain management team towards success (Strand, 2011, p.84-96). A good leader should employ varieties of skills in discharging the assigned duties. For instance, an excellent leader should employ learned skills, interpersonal skills, personal skills, and more to ensure there is smooth running of activities within the institution. The effectiveness in the application of the leadership skills in managing people qualifies the person as a good leader. Usually, a successful leader should have the ability to manage a wide range of activities. For instance, they should be excellent in setting organizations goals, they should poses ability in establishing executable strategies, and leaders should always focus on ensuring the output of the organization is sufficient to offset all costs associated with the production processes, should be sensitive to cultural imperatives, among others (Nguyen, et al. 2009). Therefore, the leadership skills will be instrumental in guiding, influencing and motivating other individuals towards a common purpose. Transformational leadership skills required in the case study of Vodafone As a matter of fact, Schultz applied appropriate transformational skills in taking the organization to the level it reached. To succeed in leading people, especially when they are individuals who have stayed in the organization for long requires exceptional skills. One must be a quick learner to easily study the organization set up, culture, operational systems, and the management support (Castro, et al. 2008). A democratic environment requires a leader in possession of qualities like honesty, competence, inspiring, intelligent, broad-minded, courageous and imaginative. The interactive application of these principles motivates and inspires others to support the companys plans. To achieve success in the transformational process in the supply chain management of Vodafone, a good leader should exhibit the following skills: communication skills, motivational skills, creative thinking skills, and personal skills. To start with, the leader should have communication skills (Michael, 2016, p. 234-247). The communication aspect was essential for the leader to express the strategic goals of the supply chain department. Communication incorporates both verbal and non-verbal skills. The verbal skills shape the leader to express his/her opinion about a particular issue effectively. Also, the combination of the verbal and non-verbal skills creates clarity in the passage of the information from the management to the team members. Further, communication skills assist an individual in understanding the right time for change to be communicated to the juniors. Consequently, teamwork and understanding will exist in the organization that positively impacts on the performance of the company as it was the case with Vodafone (Michael, 2016, p.234-240). Secondly, a leader should employ motivational skills. These are primary element that determines the support a manager or leader can get from the employees. The motivation of workers influences the behavior of individuals that can assure the leader of perfect execution and implementation of changes from the juniors based on the assigned duties. As earlier noted, the leader should be intrinsically motivated towards the organization primary objectives (Murphy, 2008). But the junior workers require extrinsic motivation for them to stay focused. It can take various forms like financial benefits, bonuses, medical benefits, house allowances and others. Therefore, a charismatic leader should have the ability to understand the need and relevance of motivation and appropriately apply it to influence workers attitudes (Takahashi, et al. 2012). Thirdly, Schultz could apply creative thinking skills to manage the teams he created. These are skills that enable an individual only to focus on smart initiatives that align with the organization objectives. These skills are essential for creativity and innovation in the organization (Lewin, 2010). With the dynamic and competitive business environment, creativity skills will help the organization develop a competitive edge against its close rivals. Innovation and creativity bring in the company new ways of executing activities (Lee, 2008, p. 670-687). Furthermore, creative thinking skills enhance the following: employees commitments, responsibility taking, effective feedback from either side, flexibility in the discharge of roles and more. Therefore, it is imperative for the leadership to ensure its key strategists has creative skills to assist in the evaluation of changes in business environment and guide the others in the establishment of a corrective action in case a deviation exists from the standard plan. Lastly but not least, Schultz could apply personal skills. These skills are essential in determining the kind of relationship to exist between the team members and overall leader. Since humans are social beings, personal skills will be vital in the creation of the positive working mood among the members. Notably, these skills enable an individual to establish a culture of free interaction, sharing of opinions and views, positivity towards any views suggested by team members, trustworthiness, and other key elements (Roy, 2012, p.56-66). In addition, personal skills will be instrumental in building work relationships that will be obligated to periodically give their opinions on various matters affecting the accomplishments of set objectives. Good relationship among the management and employees limits the explosion of conflicts (Ulrich, Smallwood, 2012, p.9-36). With the use of other explained leadership skills, the peacefulness in the organization will usher in a new error of teamwork, hard works, and member developments. With such a focus and determination, internal deterrents will be prevented, and the company will only remain with the option of handling business externalities. Conclusion Currently, the success of various organizations depends on the style of leadership. Most importantly, participative, transactional and transformational styles are the common three styles applied by most organizations. The effective application of either of the leadership style has helped most businesses grow and expand globally. However, the changing environment requires the combination of these styles since the challenges are enormous requiring the matching of the styles. The combination of the styles proved to work well at Vodafone. However, the paper has proposed the application of participative system that gives the team members privileges to contribute to the decision-making process through giving of their opinions. Lastly, a leader cannot be effective if he/she lack leadership skills. The key leadership skills include but not limited to communication skills, personal skills, creative and thinking skills and motivational skills. The proper application of these skills by leaders leads to efficiency in operation. Consequently, the company will achieve both short and long-term objectives. References Amagoh, F. (2009). Leadership development and leadership effectiveness: Management Decision, pp 989- 999 Castro, C. B., Perinan, M. V., Bueno, J.C. (2008). Transformational leadership and followers attitudes: the mediating role of psychological empowerment. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 19 (10), 18421863 Du, S., Swaen, V., Lindgreen, A., Sen, S. (2012). The roles of leadership styles in corporate social responsibility: Journal of Business Ethics, 1-15. Gary, Y.,Rubina, M.,Shahidu, H.,andGregory, E. (2013). Improved Measure of Ethical Leadership: Journal of Leadership Organizational Studies, volume20:38-48. Kowske, B. J., Anthony, K. (2007). Towards defining leadership competence around the world: What mid-level managers need to know in twelve countries. Human Resource Development International, 10(1), 21-41. Lee, J. (2008). Effects of leadership and leader-member exchange on innovativeness. Journal of Managerial Psychology, 23 (6), 670-687. Lewin, Kurt (2010). Resolving social conflicts and field theory in social science: Washington, DC: American Psychological Association Michael, T. (2016). Leadership in Extreme Contexts:Transformational Leadership, Performance Beyond Expectations? Journal of Leadership Organizational StudiesAugust 201623:234-247. Murphy, S. E., Ensher, E. A. (2008). A qualitative analysis of charismatic leadership in creative teams: The case of television directors. The Leadership Quarterly, 19, 335352. Nguyen, N. T. B., Umemoto, K. (2009). Understanding leadership for cross cultural knowledge management: Journal of Leadership Studies, 2(4), 23-35. Onen, D. (2008). Leadership styles and behaviours relationships on employee performance: A handout for postgraduate students. Kampala: Makerere University Printery, East Africa, pp.298-300 Parnell, John A. (2010). Propensity for participative decision making in Latin America: Mexico and Peru, The international Journal of Human Resources Management, Vol.21 (3), 2323-2338. Roy, S. R. (2012). Digital mastery: The skills needed for effective virtual leadership. International Journal of e-Collaboration, pp 56-66 Schaubroeck, J., Lam, S. S. K., Cha, S. E. (2007). Embracing transformational leadership: Team values and the impact of leader behavior on team performance. Journal of Applied Psychology, 92(4), 1020-1030. Sookaneknun, S., Ussahawanitchakit, P. (2012). Transformational Leadership: Organizational Innovation Capability, and Firm Performance of Cosmetic Businesses in Thailand. Journal of International Business and Economics, 12(4), 77-91 Strand, R. (2011). Exploring the role of leadership in corporate social responsibility: A review. Journal of Leadership, Accountability and Ethics, pp 84-96. Suzanne, M. Carterand Charles, R. (2013). Greer Strategic Leadership:Values, Styles, and Organizational Performance. Journal of Leadership Organizational StudiesNovember 201320:375-393 Takahashi, K., Ishikawa, J., Kanai, T. (2012). Qualitative and quantitative studies of leadership in multinational settings: Meta-analytic and cross-cultural reviews. Journal of World Business, 47(4), 530-538. Ulrich, D., Smallwood, N. (2012). What is leadership? In W. H. Mobley, Ying Wang, Ming Li (ed.) Advances in Global Leadership (Advances in Global Leadership, Volume 7), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, pp.9-36. Wang, X.-H., Howell, J. M. (2010). Exploring the Dual-Level Effects of Transformational Leadership on Followers: Journal of Applied Psychology, 95(6), 11341144. Zhang, X. A., Li, N., Ullrich, J., van Dick, R. (2013). Getting Everyone on Board: The

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Duke Ellington Essay Research Paper Duke EllingtonDuke free essay sample

Duke Ellington Essay, Research Paper Duke Ellington Duke Ellington # 8217 ; s pre-eminence in wind is non merely because of the really high aesthetic criterion of his end product and non merely due to his singular abilities as a piano player, composer and bandleader, but besides to the fact that he has extended the boundaries of wind more than any other instrumentalist, without abandoning the true kernel of the music. Possibly no other American instrumentalist left such a monolithic and disputing bequest in composing and public presentation. Edward Kennedy # 8220 ; Duke # 8221 ; Ellington was born in Washington, D.C. on April 29, 1899, to parents James Edward and Daisy Kennedy Ellington. Duke, even as a adolescent, had a great endowment for music. His school music instructor, Mrs. Clinkscales, who played the piano, was ever the inspiration for him to merely sit down and get down puttering about with a few notes that normally became large hits. In the beginning of his musical life, Duke began to take a promising involvement in a new type of music that would subsequently be called wind. Choosing to establish his calling on a new thought may non hold been smart, but Duke took this opportunity and in bend became one of the most celebrated instrumentalists in America. In our state # 8217 ; s capital metropolis, Ellington sneaked into Washington burlesque halls happening ragtime instrumentalists, including James P. Johnson, and hearing the beat of people from all walks of life. He subsequently returned in earnest to his piano surveies and at age 14 wrote his first composing, # 8220 ; Soda Fountain Rag # 8221 ; aka # 8220 ; Poodle Dog Rag. # 8221 ; Awarded an art scholarship by Pratt Institute, Ellington used his picture accomplishments to do marks publicizing his and other sets # 8217 ; visual aspects. At the age of 17, he decided to prosecute the moneymaking music concern and around this clip earned the nickname # 8220 ; Duke # 8221 ; for his sartorial luster and imperial air. Duke # 8217 ; s first occupation was at a authorities office. He was a clerk who received minimal pay and was hardly acquiring by. He would set up dance sets for nuptialss and parties for excess money. He put his cognition of piano playing to utilize and played at a few of the dance parties and nuptialss. After using his artistic endowment in painting postings, Duke so decided to set together his ain set. This new music, known as wind, was considered to be low and vulgar because it was music that grew straight out of the Black civilization. In the early old ages of Duke # 8217 ; s calling, segregation was at one of its all clip worst points in history. In clip, wind became a universally recognized signifier of art, and has been said that it is the lone existent signifier that has originated from the American psyche. Duke, himself, was an elegant adult male. When the white people looked down on the black adult male and his music, Duke managed to convey self-respect to every one of his public presentations. Once, the wind historian Leonard Feather described Duke as, # 8220 ; an inch over six pess tall, sturdily built, he had an unconditioned magnificence that would hold enabled him to step with unquenched self-respect out of a clay puddle. # 8221 ; Duke # 8217 ; s private life was something of an mystery. Although he had many friends, he neer truly told them everything about himself. He would frequently guard his privateness, likely because he had so small of it. When he was entirely though, he would about ever be set uping the following melody for the set to play, and was ever fixing something for the set to make in the following public presentation. Duke attracted some of the greatest instrumentalists to fall in his set. Because of this, it has been said that many of Duke # 8217 ; s pieces a re about impossible to precisely double without the personal manner of the original instrumentalists. The 1920 # 8217 ; s became known as # 8220 ; the Jazz Age # 8221 ; because wind had hit its first great explosion of popularity. At that clip Duke so added a immature drummer named Sonny Greer. A few old ages after Greer was hired, Duke # 8217 ; s band hit a really unsmooth topographic point. They were frequently stuck in the street with no money and nowhere to travel. Duke and his set frequently were stuck making rough recordings merely for a few dollars to purchase a repast. In November 1924, Duke made his publication and recording introduction with # 8220 ; Choo Choo ( I Got To Hurry Home ) # 8221 ; released on the Blu-Disc label. In 1925, he contributed two vocals to Chocolate Kiddies, an all-black review, which introduced European audiences to black-American manners and performing artists. In the fall of 1927, fortune had crossed waies with Duke once more. The director of Duke # 8217 ; s set, Irving Mills, had heard that the esteemed Cotton Club was looking for a new set, and instantly Irving began runing for Duke. Duke and his set opened on December 4, 1927 to run into a huffy haste of witnesss who thirstily waited to hear Dukes newest pieces. The set became really comfortable and had their ain topographic point on the Cotton Club floor with particular lighting and adjustments. The orchestra, now a 10 piece conglobation, developed a typical sound that displayed the non-traditional voicing of Ellington # 8217 ; s agreements, the street beat of Harlem, and featured the exotic-sounding trombone growls and wah-wahs, high-squealed huntsmans horns, and sultry saxophone blues licks of the set members. With the success of composings like â€Å"Mood Indigo, † an increasing figure of recordings and national wireless broadcasts from the Cotton Club, Duke Ellington and His Jungle Band’s repute soared. While Duke’s set was executing at the Cotton Club, they participated in more than 64 recording Sessionss. When he arrived in New York in 1931, his set grew to about three times what it originally had been at the Cotton Club. Duke feared that this would go a really serious job, sing how the stock market crashed in late 1929 and 1000000s of people across the United States were out of work. Somehow, though, most of the amusement concern survived the economic adversities. Ellington # 8217 ; s set had appeared on Broadway and had even gone to Hollywood to do a film. Duke # 8217 ; s set was holding a difficult clip executing in the South because of the segregation Torahs non leting inkinesss to eat in white eating houses or happening adjustments suited for the set. In 1933, most of the other large sets were adding singers to their ensemble and therefore Duke felt pressured to make so excessively. Duke so hired a adult female named Ivie Anderson and rapidly proved that he had done the right thing. During the same twelvemonth, his set got a opportunity to play in Europe. At first Duke was really disbelieving of how his music would be reacted to merely because wind had its roots in America and the Europeans had a really contrastive manner of music. The set was amazed at how good informed the Europeans were about their full yesteryear. Even the Prince of Wales came to hear the set drama. All of the concerts held in England were sellouts and the set was besides good received in Scotland and Paris. When Duke # 8217 ; s set returned to America, they began experiencing the adversities and sorrow of going on the route. Besides, many of the set members, including Duke, began developing imbibing jobs, which started doing some of the instrumentalists # 8217 ; lives suffering. After World War II, the temper and musical gustatory sensations of the state shifted and difficult times befell large sets. The Ellington set was non ever financially self-sufficing, but during the thin times Ellington used his songwriting royalties to run into the soloists # 8217 ; wages. One could delegate to Ellington the selfless motivation of trueness to his sidemen, but another motive may hold been his compositional manner. # 8220 ; The set was his instrument, and no Ellington composing was complete until he brought it to his orchestra, # 8221 ; said Billy Strayhorn, lyrist, confederate, and piano player. An added ruin was the decease of Duke # 8217 ; s female parent, Daisy, in May of 1935, puting Du ke into a deep depression. He used to sit and gaze into infinite while he talked to himself. Fortunately though, those long pep negotiations with himself seem to snarl Duke out of his depression. As things began to look up for him, Duke composed a new vocal called # 8220 ; Reminiscing in Tempo # 8221 ; . Critics did non look upon the vocal favourably, but it did look to sum everything up that was written by Ellington from 1931 to 1939 in a combination of gladfulness, unhappiness, victory, and calamity. Irving Mills formed his ain record company in 1936, that boomed with popularity as the demand for large sets playing this new swing music was in intense demand. By 1956, nevertheless, the chasm between mere being and prosperity had overtaken Ellington. He saw the popular out-of-door wind fest ( in its 3rd twelvemonth ) as a agency to deliver his repute with fans, critics, journalists, and Columbia Records, with whom he had signed a new 5-year contract merely the hebdomad before. By the 1960 # 8217 ; s Duke traveled the Earth so many times that he go known as the unofficial embassador to the United States. Duke # 8217 ; s set had played in Russia, Japan, Latin America, the Far East, the Middle East, and Africa. Ellington had antecedently written music for movie and telecasting and continued to make so, gaining an Academy Award nomination for the mark to Paris Blues in 1961. By 1972, the times and manners of the universe no longer suit the old clip manner of Duke # 8217 ; s set. This was the turning point in the autumn of the set # 8217 ; s calling. Duke Ellington # 8217 ; s calling spanned the whole history of the birth of the music called wind. Nowhere in that glorious history is there a adult male who had more love for music, more regard for his art, than the adult male they called the Duke. Duke Ellington is America # 8217 ; s most fecund composer of the twentieth century, in both figure of pieces ( about 2,000 ) and assortment of signifiers. His artistic development and sustained accomplishment are among the most dramatic in the history of music. His, was a clearly democratic vision of music, in the service of the whole set # 8217 ; s sound, and more than any other composer, he cod ified the sound of America in the twentieth century.

Thursday, November 28, 2019

The Character of Zanni in Commedia dellArte Essay Example

The Character of Zanni in Commedia dellArte Paper The Zanni are often referred to as ‘servant’ characters. However, Zanni have traditional uses for filling out other types of careers ranging from shopkeepers to politicians. They all are most commonly shows to be servants of the vecchi (which means ‘old men’) and innamorati (which means the romantic leads, also known as the ‘lovers’). The origin of the term Zanni indicates that rather, they are meant to represent commoners or the everyman. The Zanni are the most versatile of the commedia characters; they may be either working for someone, or may have their own motivations apart from any sides. Some stories, for example, The Marvellous Malady of Harlequin, omit the other character types altogether and focus squarely on the Zanni. The Zanni are often described as masked characters. The main trait which all the Zanni share is that they are supposed to be entertaining. This is most often achieved through comical behaviors and speeches, but can also be done through other methods like acrobatics or dancing. There were common qualities between all the Zanni characters: they all possessed common sense, intelligence, pride, a love for practical jokes and intrigue. The Zanni have a common costume which was a baggy white one, which was originally made of flour sacks: Their mask originates from the full-face Carnival mask: Their signature props include bags, letters, valuables, food and etc. , that belongs to someone else. Zanni stands with an arched back, with his knees bent and apart and his feet spread out. The support knee is bent with the other leg extended, toe pointed. The character changes feet repeatedly while talking or listening within the same position and without its head bobbing up and down. The elbows are bent and the arms half-lifted. We will write a custom essay sample on The Character of Zanni in Commedia dellArte specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Character of Zanni in Commedia dellArte specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Character of Zanni in Commedia dellArte specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer There are six types of Zanni walk: 1) little Zanni walk: this is a development of the basic stance, foot changing but taking a small step forward on each shift, 2) Big Zanni walk: a curved lumbar is first achieved by sticking chest forward and the backside up, 3) Zanni running: a swift movement with legs kicked alternately to the front with pointed toes, 4) Zanni jubilant: a skipping movement on the toes with the centre of gravity going from side-to-side, 5) Vain Zanni: steps are a smaller version of the big walk, with hands resting on belt, 6) Solider Zanni: hold a stick cupped in one hand and inclined over shoulder like a rifle. Zanni’s movements are dynamic and exaggerated. Their gestures/actions are always urgent. They appear nervous; talk a lot and their head moves constantly. The nose defines the rhythm of his body since it is the center of his actions. The hands are very expressive and constantly used to illustrate what he is saying. While delivering their dialogues, they speak open-mouthed and loud. Bibliography: * Commedia Stock Characters Zanni. Â  Shane Arts Home Page. N. p. , n. d. Web. 11 Aug. 2013. http://shane-arts. com/Commedia-Zanni. htm

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Plessy v Ferguson essays

Plessy v Ferguson essays In 1896 the Supreme Court had held in Plessy v. Ferguson that segregation was allowed as long as equal facilities were provided for both races. Although that decision was made for passenger on railroads, the principle of "separate but equal" was applied thereafter to all aspects of public life. Why after fifty years did the Supreme Court finally decided to overturn the Plessy v. Ferguson decision for the Brown v. Board case? There are many factors that changed the mind of the Supreme Court at this time. The main reason why the Supreme Court overturned the Plessy case came from Chief of Justice Earl Warren. He found that it wrong for children of the same age to be separated from each other while growing up in this world. Many fought for the Brown decision to be passed for example teachers, and industrial workers and many more. Many African Americans from 1896 to 1954 were fighting for their rights and many cases went to the Supreme Court which was denied. The Plessy v. Ferguson case took place in 1896 when a man named Plessy sat in the White section of a car in the train. He was arrest and was put on trail. Plessy went to court and argued that the separate cars violated the Fourteenth Amendments of the Constitution. The judge at this time was John Howard Ferguson. He had previously declared the separate cars were "unconstitutional on trains that traveled through several states." However, in regards to the Plessy trial, he stated that Louisiana could regulate railroad companies that only operated within its state. Ferguson found Plessy guilty of refusing to leave the white mans car. Plessy decided to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court of Louisiana. The Supreme Court of Louisiana still found Plessy quilt. Plessy didnt want to give up and he wanted to fight for his rights. He then decided to take his case to the United States Supreme Court. In 1896, The Supreme Court of the United States found Homer Plessy guilt...

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Women, crime, and criminology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Women, crime, and criminology - Assignment Example Violations of gender roles were treated in the 19th century by various charitable missions and voluntary social work projects that focused on instilling moral conscience and virtues into wayward girls. Social control over girls primarily targeted status violations, since girls are not as frequently involved in violent crime. Status violations include such things as resisting home or school authority, becoming pregnant, running away (Gelsthorpe & Sharpe, 2006). An overwhelming number of girls reformatories and training schools were established in the early 20th century, 23 established between 1910-1920, and only five established in each decade of the half century prior to that (Schlossman & Wallach, 1985, p. 70). They basically tried to isolate the young women from all males. Into the 20th century, girls were thought to need kind guidance rather than punishment, unlike boys, but they have also been thought to be more difficult to handle. They have been seen as being more emotionally unstable, more vulnerable to bad influence, more psychiatrically challenged, and more stubborn, yet less criminally inclined. Their efforts to engage in freedom beyond the socio-culturally and religiously encouraged gender role expectations were routinely seen from a medical model of pathology and a religious model of temptation into sin. In the past century, status offences revolved around their sexuality (Gelsthorpe & Sharpe, 2006). Currently, the tendency is to criminalize their resistance, language, and even the way they dress and to spread great concern that young teen girls are increasingly turning to drugs, alcohol and violent crime, instead of only status offenses. Young women have relocated their social activities from home to the more publicly visible streets and clubs, a move that has set off moral alarms in society. Society has responded, most

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Explain How Advertising may be used as Barrier to Entry of New firms Coursework

Explain How Advertising may be used as Barrier to Entry of New firms Into an Industry - Coursework Example Now both these definitions focus on how advertising is seen as a significant metaphor for marketing a product or service which holds importance within the realms of an organization (Starbuck, 2010:49). This paper discusses how advertising has been used as a barrier towards entry of new firms within an industry which can even span another country or region for that matter. The need is to understand how different sorts of advertising exist within the world of marketing. These could be comprised under the product advertising, service level advertising, consumer advertising, business to business (or trade) advertising, digital advertising, experiential advertising and a number of other tenets that are given significance. Essentially speaking, all forms of advertising look to address where the customer is headed and how to draw his attention which shall eventually make a sale if he feels interested (Molho, 1994:66). Advertising allows him to feel interested, get away from the competing products or services that stand in the way of this product or service which is being advertised, and so on. Advertising can be used for a number of reasons and when the need is to act as a barrier to entry of new firms within an industry, its objective becomes different. This is because advertising aims to make a sale but if the end goal is to disallow others to come forward and avoid their sales process, then perhaps this form of marketing communication is playing a somewhat distinctive role in entirety (Zottola & Parr, 2014). Advertising has changed its shape and form with the passage of time. Now the big players are doing their utmost to forbid others from entering their respective line of business. Bigger brands are doing it all the time (Tremblay, 2001:145). They are enacting strategies that shall make this happen in one way or the other. However, what must be comprehended here is the reason as to why advertising is being used as a barrier to entry and

Monday, November 18, 2019

I attaced all information below.(file) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

I attaced all information below.(file) - Essay Example As such, this article discusses community from the perspective of a nation-state. The second article evaluates the notion of power and its influence on individuals as they move up the organizational ladder. The article contradicts the suggestions of the 16th century philosopher, Machiavelli, who suggested that a leader should prefer dominance and fear to love in the course of attaining eminence. The third article suggests that property rights in America have diminished people’s freedom. Using the arguments of Rousseau over issues such as property rights and individuality, the article’s author highlights the fact that these rights have enhanced people’s greed thereby diminishing the good for the society (i.e., a nation-state). Aristotle was a firm believer in democracy and maintained that a nation was supposed to based on a constitution that catered to the aspirations of the middle classes. In his philosophical work titled ‘Politics’, Aristotle says the following about democracy (Aristotle, 1977): Thus, social justice according to Aristotle was applicable to all peoples who were unqualifiedly equal. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), which was passed in 2010, is an attempt in this direction by the Obama administration at delivering healthcare to poor and middle-class Americans (especially those without adequate medical insurance) and ensuring that more funds are allocated towards providing universal healthcare. Jonah Lehrer compares the recent events in Hewlett Packard with regards to the downfall of its CEO (Chief Executive Officer) against the principles suggested by Machiavelli on leadership and observes that his teachings do not find any place in the modern context. In today’s organizational structures where a single person no longer holds absolute power, the author found that

Friday, November 15, 2019

Early Years Foundation Stage

Early Years Foundation Stage Children are the most vulnerable people who have innate potentials yearning to be unleashed. It is in their early childhood when they begin to manifest such potentials and since they have yet to develop physically, cognitively and socio-emotionally, they would need supportive adults to guide them towards the right path in optimizing their potentials. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is a resource for early childhood care and education practitioners to support the needs of young children under their care. It sets standards for learning, development and care for children up to five years of age. EYFS provides a wide variety of information on child development to help practitioners understand how children grow and what they need to help them optimize their potentials (Tickell, 2011). The use of this resource will effectively enable early childhood settings to meet the key outcomes outlined in Every Child Matters and to ensure that high quality service is provided to the children. Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) In early childhood, caring for all children involves many considerations. One is to see each child at his or her own developmental level and create activities and opportunities appropriate to their particular levels. The child needs to develop holistically, meaning each developmental area is given attention to so growth and development as a whole person ensues. The crucial areas of development that need to be emphasized in early learning are Personal, social and emotional development; Communication and language Physical development (Department of Education, 2012). Aside from these major areas, the children also need to develop skills in literacy, mathematics, understanding the world and expressive arts and design (Department of Education, 2012) These are all linked together, as in development in one area affects the others. The practitioner needs careful planning and implementation of activities so that children under their care grow in all areas. The EFYS works around four essential themes namely: A unique child; positive relationships; enabling environments and learning and development (Department of Education, 2012). These themes are briefly explained as follows. Each child is born with his or her own set of talents and potentials, and these are meant to be developed all throughout his life. The practitioner is to help the child develop his or her potentials to the fullest by providing him with activities and experiences to hone his skills. If the child shows propensity for the arts, the practitioner allows him or her to indulge in creative activities of interest to the child (Tickell, 2011). EYFSs theme of positive relationships enables children to grow up in environments that make them feel love and security from their homes or learning environments, making them grow up to be self-confident, self-propelling people. Supportive adults help children understand the emotions they undergo, especially if these feelings are negative and confusing to the child (anger, disappointment, jealousy, etc.). In being understood, the children themselves learn to be sensitive to others feelings and provide the same support and understanding to them, creating a circle The key of positive relationships. The outcomes specified in Every Child Matters are met in such positive environments (Department of Education, 2012). The theme of provision of enabling environments for children play a key role in helping and guiding children in growing to be capable individuals. This entails a practitioners keen observation of each child, as to his or her interests, skills, personality traits, etc. and get cues from the children themselves as to how they would like their learning to be structured. Careful planning of activities for children should consider important concepts and skills they should be learning at their developmental level. Again, this agrees with the constructivists view of childrens learning that they are capable of treading their own learning paths they themselves construct of course with the able guidance of a sensitive adult (Tickell, 2011). Lastly, EYFSs theme of learning and development helps practitioners understand that children develop and learn in different ways and at their own time. Each area of learning and development specified by EYFS is equally important and inter-connect with the others, so practitioners must make sure that they do not concentrate on only one area of learning at a time (Department of Education, 2012). Role and Value of Play EYFS recognizes the importance of play in childhood, as it provides many benefits. Wood (2004) contends that in maximizing the potentials of play as a teaching tool, adults have a great role to play in planning challenging environments, engaging children in learning from play activities, facilitating childrens language development, observing and evaluating childrens learning through play and encouraging its continuity and progress. Infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers derive much benefit from a play-based curriculum, and under the supervision of knowledgeable and caring adults, it is a powerful method in facilitating the development of childrens identities. During play, children demonstrate improved verbal communications, high levels of social and interaction skills, creative use of play materials, imaginative and divergent thinking skills and problem-solving capabilities (Wood, 2004, p. 21). Free exploration is considered Heuristic play by Holland (2003). It is encouraged without adult intervention. Adults simply provide simple materials and allow the child to just be and let his imagination take off . The child learns from observing directly what these objects will do or not do, in sharp contrast to much of the educational equipment which has a result predetermined by the design which has been devised by the adult maker (Holland, 2003, p. 142). Heuristic play will not only stimulate a childs thinking, but it also develops his creativity as he will see in his mind endless possibilities in imaginatively transforming ordinary objects into various things with various functions. Early childhood curriculum should incorporate play in its design. Play is essential to childrens learning, as it is one effective approach to captivate their interest. Teachers should take advantage of this and plan challenging learning environments to support their students learning through planned play activity. Aside from this, the teacher also needs to know how to support their spontaneous play and help them develop their language, communication skills and other developmental skills through interesting and fun play-like activities. Moyles et al (2001) claim that ironically, a learning environment that relies much on play leads to more mature forms of knowledge, skills and understanding. There is evidence to suggest that through play children develop high levels of verbal skill and creative problem solving capabilities EYFS and Other Early Years Programmes Several early childhood programmes share the same philosophy as those espoused by EYFS (Tickell, 2011). These programs have curriculums designed with the child at the center and all else caters to him to support his growth and development and the realization of his potentials. One is the Te Whaariki early childhood curriculum of New Zealand and the other is Reggio Emilia based in Italy. The Te Whaariki curriculum values play as an effective tool in facilitating childrens learning and development. Pedagogical models with strong sociocultural features such as Te Whariki do not leave play to chance but sustains it through complex reciprocal and responsive relationships as well as provision of activities which are socially constructed and mediated (Wood, 2004). Not only do activities promote self-awareness but also incorporate cultural awareness which strengthens childrens cultural identities. Webber (n.d.) summarizes what research has found out to maximize childrens learning as incorporating cultural content; reflecting cultural values, attitudes and practices; utilizing culturally preferred ways of learning, including culturally appropriate support; and affirming cultural identity (p. 9). This means they should be exposed to the songs, stories, games, etc. inherent in their family and cultural backgrounds. Much of these can be incorporated in play situations. Malaguzzi, founder of Reggio Emilia philosophy (1993) concludes that teachers should be researchers that think and produce a true curriculum centered on childrens needs. Teachers develop a curriculum from observing the children and noting down their developmental skills, interests and other possibilities they can discover on their own within the parameters of safety. This curriculum envisions implementation in an environment organized by teachers to be rich in possibilities and provocations that challenge children to explore, problem-solve, usually in small groups while the teachers act as keen observers or recorders of the childrens learning. Teachers get to balance their role by sometimes joining the circle of children and sometimes objectively remaining outside the loop (Pope Edwards, 2002). Teachers are on hand to provide assistance or further challenge childrens thinking to push them to optimize their potentials. They also observe childrens behaviors to see which of their needs need to be met (Lambert Clyde, 2000) and design opportunities to address such needs either through the curriculum or through their social interactions. Reggio Emilia schools provide an ideal learning environment for children. Since the approach was conceived in the context of shared learning with the families and other adults in the community contributing to the education of the young, it has the support it needs to implement a curriculum that best suits the needs of the growing child. It is commendable that the families and community members value their childrens education seriously that they take time to collaborate with the teachers in projects children do (Early Education Support, 2006). Knowing that children at the early childhood stage are concrete learners, much emphasis is given to the creative arts that the presence of an atelierista or Art consultant is vital in the program. Children are given several opportunities to explore their artistic side as they are provided with all the materials and conducive learning environment in the atelier or art studio within the school. Childrens 100 languages are given vent in various forms of art and other developmentally-appropriate activities. Not to be forgotten are learnings in literacy and numeracy which are likewise essential to childrens development. However, since it is the process which is given priority over the product, academics are learned in less structured ways. Learning is evidenced in highly documented portfolios which contain actual works of children, photographs of their projects and even transcripts of their language while working on some activities. Teachers observations are important since they need to document each childs episode of learning. Each portfolio is vastly different. Teachers and parents discuss childrens portfolios at parent teacher conferences to see evidences of progress. Teachers are also using digital portfolios. They may use these to complement the original portfolio of the child or alone. The portfolio assessment gives a clearer and more accurate picture of what children learn in school rather than a report card that serves to summarize learning in a particular period of time. Inclusion and Diversity in EYFS Practitioners with a genuine heart for caring for children are not prejudiced in selecting who to care for. According to EYFS principles, Children should be treated fairly regardless of race, religion or abilities. This applies no matter what they think or say; what type of family they come from; what language(s) they speak; what their parents do; whether they are girls or boys; whether they have a disability or whether they are rich or poor. All children have an equal right to be listened to and valued in the setting. (EYFS, 2007). Diversity is embraced so everyone is welcome to be part of the class. Inclusion of children with disabilities or special education needs is likewise advocated by EYFS. Inclusion settings should design the environment to accommodate such children like providing ramps for children in wheelchairs. At the same time, they should seek the support of the childrens parents and other agencies involved with children with special needs. Professionals from a wide variety of fields and disciplines devote much time and energy in helping these children live comfortable and fulfilling lives with the end view of mainstreaming them into society and the real world. Educators, therapists, psychologists, speech pathologists, physicians, social workers and even government officials join hands in the care and education of these children to ensure their optimum growth and development. The children may be part of the social care team. They have the ability to help each other in their interactions. Children, both normal and with special needs are subsequently paired in natural settings for social activities. The most direct outcome of these procedures has been an increase in positive social responses and peer acceptance. Strategies for peers to use include, soliciting the students attention, providing choices, modeling appropriate social behavior, reinforcing attempts at functional play, encouraging/ extending conversation, turn taking, narrating play and teaching responsiveness to multiple cues. (Benito Ramirez, 2000, p. 43). Conclusion Such information provided herein helps the practitioner plan a good program for children. Bearing in mind that each childs individual need should be met, a practitioner may group children with similar ages or ability levels together and manage the different groups in accordance to their developmental and individual needs. Practitioners should have enough flexibility in planning activities for children. Following their lead in terms of interests shared by the majority of children is one effective way of capturing their attention and motivating them to develop skills. To ensure that each individual in the group is provided with the necessary attention and care, the practitioner should be keen in observing their needs and interests so she is mindful of these when planning activities for them. Collaborating with parents is another way of gaining information on each childs interest, abilities and personal qualities. In the matter of addressing the key outcomes identified by Every Child Matters, EYFS is likewise very much concerned in the well-being of children and attempt to pursue its goals of keeping children healthy, safe, happy and capable, and being healthy, staying safe, enjoying and achieving, making a positive contribution and achieve economic well-being by not going hungry, unclothed or unsheltered. That is why its advocacy is to uphold the best interests of children. These five outcomes go for all children regardless of their background or circumstances. The outcomes are mutually reinforcing, as when one outcome is met, the others are more likely to follow. For instance, young people learn better when they are healthy and safe. Also, education is the best route out of poverty. With all the support from EYFS, the government and agencies involved with children, early childhood practitioners have no reason not to provide high quality service to their clients. Theirs is the most vulnerable lot and deserve the utmost care, since they hold the keys to the future. Understanding the needs and developmental growth of very young children enables the practitioner to plan very well for appropriate activities that would optimize their potentials.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Cloud Computing Essay -- Technology, Cyber Criminals

â€Æ' Introduction Over the past several years the term cloud computing has become common in homes and organizations alike. Cloud computing can be defined as a pooled set of computing resources that are furnished via the internet. There are three types of cloud services typically available, these services are Platform as a Service (PaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). Organizations can benefit greatly from cloud services because they eliminate the need to buy and manage physical resources. Although such an action cuts cost it leaves organization victim to the vulnerabilities and threats that exist in cloud computing. Throughout this paper I will discuss the vulnerabilities and threats that come along with the adoption of cloud computing. In addition, I will discuss standards and policies that effectively manage the risk associated with cloud computing. Threats & Vulnerabilities The abuse and nefarious use of cloud computing is a threat to any organization that takes advantage of cloud services. Most providers of cloud services make it all too easy for cyber criminals to register for service, all that is need to register for service with many providers is a valid credit card (Cloud Security Alliance, 2011). In addition to the ease of registration providers offer free trials of their services allowing attacker to carry out attacks covertly on cloud services. By gaining such access cyber criminals can deploy malicious code, abuse known exploits, and send spam messages to those that are sharing the same resources. Organizations are aware that threats can be internal as well as external, those that provide cloud services are no exception. The people who the service providers employ can pose... ...ncy use(CIO, 2011). FedRAMP is not alone in the effort to create standards regarding cloud computing. The National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) has published two draft publications specifically related to cloud computing. The first document, Special Publication 800-145 (Draft), has been created provide the NIST definition of cloud computing. The NIST has defined as the following: â€Å"Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction. This cloud model promotes availability and is composed of five essential characteristics, three service models, and four deployment models.† (NIST, 2011)

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Factors affecting math performance of the students

The actual coding of a program is done by a(n) a) systems analyst b) software engineer c) end-user d) database administrator Answer: B Difficulty level: Easy page: 389 Response: Software engineers would complete the coding of a program. . Program objectives, desired outputs, needed inputs, and processing requirements are all recorded in the a) program tracking log project management database program specifications document c) d) management information system Answer: C Difficulty level: 389 page: 390 Response: All of these items are outlined in the program specifications document. 4. The information software produces after it has processed the input is called a) flowchart b) output c) objective prototype Response: The output is what has been produced after the input has been processed. 5.The information that a program requires in order to accomplish its objective is called the a) data contribution c) effort input Answer: D Response: Once you know the output, you then determine the inp ut data and the source of this data. 6. The program's processing steps are grouped into logically-related programming statements called a) modules unit c) object component page: 392 Response: Processing steps are called program modules (modules). 7. Flowcharts and pseudopodia are examples of tools used in the program phase. A) specification b) design c) code d) test page: 393 Response: Pseudopodia and flowcharts are tools used in program design. . The programming tool that uses linked symbols to show the sequence of steps needed to solve a programming problem. A) grid table pseudopodia c) algorithm d) flowchart Response: Flowcharts graphically present the detailed sequence of steps needed to solve a program by using symbols. 9. In a(n) structure, one statement follows the other with no conditions having to be met. A) selection b) loop sequence conditional Response: In the sequence structure, one program statement follows another. 10. The structure involves repeating a sequence until a condition is met. A) loop selectionResponse: A loop structure will repeat so long as a certain condition remains true. 11. An IF-THEN-ELSE statement is part of the structure. A) loop Response: IF-THEN-ELSE structures are part of the selection structure. 12. In the course of creating program specifications, the end-user should sketch out the desired a) splash logo icon Response: The end-users should sketch out the desired output that they want out of the computer system. 13. The control structure used to perform a series of statements one after the other is called a) sequential c) loop random Response: In the sequential structure, one program statement follows another. . When a program makes a true or false decision, it is an example of a(n) logic structure. A) if-then-else b) do until c) do while d) what-if Response: If-then-else resembles a true/false decision. 15. When a program repeats a portion of software code as long as a certain condition doesn't exist, it's using a(n) str ucture. A) Response: This is an example of the do until structure. 16. The actual writing of a program in a programming language is called a) program design b) logic structure language translation d) coding page: 396 Response: Writing the program is called coding. 17.Which of the following is not necessary for a good program? A) reliability catches common errors colorful graphics d) well-documented Response: Colorful graphics are not necessary for a good program. 18. Eliminating errors in a program is also called the program. A) debugging b) modularizing c) coding clarifying page: 399 Response: Debugging is testing a program and eliminating errors. 19. A program error that violates the grammar rules of the programming language is a(n) error. A) modular b) logic syntax language Response: Syntax error is a violation of the grammar rules of the programming language. . Error could be the result of the programmer making an incorrect calculation. A) b) general protection c) logic breakpoi nt Response: Logic errors are created by incorrect or missing specifications. 21. Refers to testing by a select group of potential users in the final stage of testing a program. A) Manual testing b) Desk checking c) Attempt at translation d) Beta testing page: 400 Response: Beta testing refers to testing by a select group of potential users in the final stage of testing a program. Re explanations that tell other programmers In programming, what's happening in the software code. ) restrictions b) tables c) documentation d) selections Response: Documentation is written to explain what is happening in the software code. 23. As much as percent of the total lifetime cost for an application program is for maintenance. A) d) 75% Difficulty level: Hard page: 402 Response: As much as 75% of the total lifetime cost for an application program is for maintenance. 24. Which of the following refers to tools that are used to design, code, and test software? ) XML b) CAD c) CASE d) pop page: 403 Re sponse: CASE tools are used to automate the development process. They can aid n program design, coding, and testing. 25. Software that helps programmers prepare reports, draw flowcharts, and generate software code for prototypes is a(n) a) CAUSE (computer assisted Unix software environment) tool b) CASE (computer aided software engineering) tool c) COOL (computer licensed operations code) tool d) CULL (combined users licensed protocols) tool Response: CASE tools help programmers prepare these items. 26.Object-oriented programming is a type of assembler language a) b) allows you to interact with objects when coding software c) is a type of machine language inverts source code into machine language code Answer: B page: 404 Response: Object-oriented programming focuses on letting you interact with the objects (defined procedures) when coding software. 27. POP languages use combinations of objects natural and nonprocedural statements binary coded instructions d) abbreviations and mnemon ic Difficult level: Easy Response: Object-oriented programming uses combinations of objects. 8. Machine language is composed only of a) keyword statements b) hexadecimal numbers c) memory address toggles d) So and Is page: 405 Response: Machine language is composed of Is and So. 9. Language is made up only of binary digits. A) Procedural b) Machine c) Assembly d) Natural Response: Machine language uses binary code. Which of the following lines of code comes from a first generation computer language? A) b) 00010 1010 1101 0001 1010 this Total=Total + Totals set total to sum of totals Response: Machine language (first generation) used So and Is. 1. These languages use abbreviations and mnemonics that make it easier for humans to understand. A) assembly b) machine language d) COBOL Response: Assembly language uses abbreviations or mnemonics that make it easier or humans to understand and use. 32. Languages are designed to express the logic used instead of Just performing calculations. A) Machine b) Procedural d) Low level Response: Procedural languages are designed to express the logic – the procedures – that can solve general problems. 3. Procedural languages are part of the generation of computer languages. A) first second third fourth Response: Procedural languages are part of the third generation of computer languages. Procedural languages must be translated into machine language using compiler or interpreter a(n) a) b) assembler interpolator ) application generator Response: Procedural languages must be translated into machine language using a compiler or interpreter. 35. A compiler performs the following function. ) translates and executes each program statement one at a time b) converts the source code into machine language code c) translates instruction codes from assembler language into machine language d) uses statements to tell objects to perform actions on themselves Answer: B Response: Compiler converts procedural language program (sour ce code) into a machine language code (object code). C++ is considered a A) machine language ) assembly language c) procedural language natural language Response: C++ is a procedural language. 7. Converts the programmer's procedural language program into a machine language. A) interpreter compiler d) analyst page:405 Response: A compiler converts procedural language program into machine language An interpreter performs the following function. A) translates and executes each line of code one at a time b) translates high-level language statements uses statements to tell objects to perform actions on themselves d) translates software code from assembly language into machine language Answer: AResponse: Interpreter converts the procedural language one statement at a time into machine code Just before it is executed. 39. Problem-oriented languages are which generation of language? A) first page: 406 Response: Problem-oriented languages are fourth generation languages. Fourth-generation la nguages use a) procedural statements nonprocedural statements c) assemblers symbols Response: Fourth-generation languages are nonprocedural languages.

Friday, November 8, 2019

The eNotes Blog 8 Latin American Authors and Poets You Need toRead

8 Latin American Authors and Poets You Need toRead As a student and young reader, I am often inundated with syllabi and must-read lists that beat me over the head with the â€Å"essentials.† One can only be told to read Twain, Austen, Faulkner, Dickens, and Hemingway so many times before one itches to rebel. What else is out there? There have to be other great books outside of the Western canon, right? Of course there are. The issue is that so many great books get lost in translation. Latin America in particular is rich in a history of struggle and resistance; this spirit is reflected best in its literature. From Borges in Argentina to Neruda in Chile, here are eight literary heroes who should be on your personal must-read list. Argentina Jose Luis Borges, Ficciones Jorge Luis Borges (1899–1986) is one of the most important figures in Spanish language and Argentinean literature. His specific genre is hard to define, as he combines elements of surrealism, the human condition, time, and the metaphysical. In his collection of short stories Ficciones, Borges plays with the idea of paradoxes that readers are forced to puzzle out. What is real, and what is fiction? Ficciones won’t tell you, and it might drive you crazy; however, I’m not sure that Borges could distinguish between the two, himself. Alejandra Pizarnik, Extracting the Stone of Madness You cannot talk about Argentine poets without mentioning Alejandra Pizarnik (1936–1972). She was a central voice in Latin American poetry during the twentieth century. The poems in Extracting the Stone of Madness, like many of Pizarnik’s poems, draw readers into her personal turmoil. Pizarnik has a unique style of confession in that provides no answers, only tension. We are invited into the poet’s musings on solitude, madness, and death. It is impossible, with her candidness, for us not to reflect on those topics ourselves. Colombia Gabriel Garcà ­a Mrquez, Chronicle of a Death Foretold Garcà ­a Mrquez (1927–2014) was simultaneously a talented journalist, short story writer, and novelist, having won the Nobel Peace Prize for Literature in 1982- he was the fourth Latin American to do so. He was affectionately known in Colombia as â€Å"Gabo.† The very beginning of Chronicle of a Death Foretold tells us that Santiago Nasar has been murdered. It’s the â€Å"how† and the â€Å"why† that we’re interested in, and we learn those details through a very non-linear storyline. It’s a fascinating story of honor, shame, duty, and complicity. How can a village allow a man to be murdered, when the murderers themselves warn them? Laura Restrepo, The Angel of Galilea Laura Restrepo (1950–) is a Colombian writer who has transitioned from political columns to best-selling novels. Although she was never afraid to voice her opinions when it came to war and negotiations, this caused death threats which resulted in a six-year exile in Mexico. To this day, Restrepo divides her time between Bogot and Mexico City. In The Angel of Galilea, we see the influence of Restrepo’s past in the main character, Mona, who is a formerly optimistic Colombian journalist. Mona is sent to the village of Galilea, in the slums of Bogot, to investigate sightings of an angel. Drug addiction, abuse, incarceration, love, and angels- what more could you want? Peru Cà ©sar Vallejo, Trilce Peru has a rich history of literary giants, and Cà ©sar Vallejo (1892–1938) is one of them. It is impossible to read his poetry without seeing Vallejo’s true inner nature: full of desire for justice, full of sadness, intensely averse to pain- his own and others. Trilce is Cà ©sar Vallejo’s best-known book of poetry. His poems often defy interpretation, or perhaps they offer too many possible interpretations. The emotion is undeniable, however, and opens the door for us to see how Vallejo juggles the power of language with the power of lived experience. Mario Vargas Llosa, The Time of the Hero Mario Vargas Llosa (1936– )is another recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature. Vargas Llosa is overtly political in his writing, which makes sense, considering he has also made a career for himself as a journalist and politician in Peru. In The Time of the Hero, Vargas Llosa critiques Peruvian society in particular and hierarchical structures in general. The novel follows four boys in the Leoncio Prado Military Academy in Lima, Peru, as they grow and come to terms with the fact that their fates are inescapable. Chile Isabel Allende, House of the Spirits Isabel Allende (1942– ) uses aspects of magical realism in her novels- novels that often are tributes to powerful women operating in situations where they have little power. Allende has had United States Citizenship since 1993 and was awarded the 2014 Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama. House of the Spirits spans generations, social divides, and political divides of a single family. What is the difference between love and possession? Can there be love without possession? Allende explores the theme of injustice when it comes to gender, social class, and who is allowed to be self-determining. Pablo Neruda, One Hundred Love Sonnets Pablo Neruda (1904–1973) became known as the people’s poet, and it’s easy to see why- he was a diplomat, Chilean consul to Argentina and Mexico, member of the Chilean Senate, opponent of repressive policies, and prolific writer. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971. One Hundred Love Sonnets isn’t the only tribute that Neruda made to his wife, Matilde Urrutia, but it is a fantastic one. If you’re looking for romance, look no further than the man who wrote, â€Å"I want to do to you what spring does with the cherry blossoms.†

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Vocabulary Tips Words You Never Knew Were Latin!

Vocabulary Tips Words You Never Knew Were Latin! Words You Never Knew Were Latin! Some of you may know someone who shows off by dropping Latin phrases into conversation. But Latin isn’t all about sounding pretentious. Hundreds of common English words have Latin origins. We even spell some words the same as the Romans used to! In this blog post, then, we’re looking at a few English terms that you may already use in your written work without realizing where they come from. 1. Campus Latin Academic writing is full of obscure Latin words. But there are some more familiar terms you’ll hear on campus that come from Latin. One of these, in fact, is â€Å"campus.† In Roman times, this word simply meant â€Å"field.† It was first used for a college campus to describe a field near the College of New Jersey (now better known as Princeton University) in 1774. The original college campus.(Photo: Filipe Fortes/flickr) Other Latin terms that have found a place in academia include â€Å"thesis† (which originally meant â€Å"to set down†) and â€Å"calculus† (which comes from a small pebble used for counting). 2. Did Romans Drive Cars? The Romans were better known for chariots than motor vehicles, but they did invent the word â€Å"motor.† This meant â€Å"mover,† so it was later applied to any machine that supplies power. Turtle-powered chariots never caught on. And given that we use the word â€Å"motor† in relation to cars, it is appropriate that â€Å"petroleum† also comes from Latin. To be specific, it’s a medieval combination of the words for â€Å"rock† (petra) and â€Å"oil† (oleum). But we wouldn’t recommend asking for â€Å"rock oil† at the gas station. 3. Cinnamon on Asparagus Food has changed a lot since ancient Rome, but we do still use some Latin terms when we’re hungry! These include â€Å"asparagus,† â€Å"citrus,† and â€Å"cinnamon.† In addition, if you enjoy the traditional approach of combining ingredients while making a meal, you might follow a â€Å"recipe.† 4. The End of the Year The Roman calendar only had ten months to begin with, so it was different from ours. But we do get our month names from Latin, including three that are unchanged: October, November, and December. As the names suggest, these were originally the eighth, ninth, and tenth months in the year. Going from this image, were guessing December was the month of snake stretching.(Photo: Ad Meskens/Wikimedia) Later, however, Julius and Augustus (now July and August) were introduced after June (or Junius as it was then). Despite their names, October, November, and December thus became the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth months of the year respectively. This makes it even stranger that these terms are still spelled the same as they were more than 2000 years ago!

Monday, November 4, 2019

Psychological Disorders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Psychological Disorders - Essay Example Michael starts to suspect David after some events and the suspicion grows stronger when he quits his job only because he was asked to show his identity card. Michael heirs an investigator to conduct deep search on this but David finds this out and kills her. Michael then with the help of his girlfriend goes to the basement to check out the lockers his stepfather had made and finds the dead body of his father. David also wakes up and traps him in the basement; in this commotion Susan wakes up and becomes shocked. Michael manages to come out and finds his mother and girlfriend but again gets tapped by David and then fights him and both of them falls of the roof to the ground and becomes unconscious. He wakes up a month later and finds out that David is still alive. In the end he is again shown getting involved with some other family (The stepfather, 2010) David was habitual of keeping everything clean and perfectly set and most of the time he used to spend time keeping everything perfect and whatever he did he wanted it to be perfect and in order and it is a symptom that the patient performs repetitive tasks (Menzies, De, 2003). It is also a symptom that the patient changes his name and personality and in this film David exhibited this symptom as well. David never tried to consult any doctor or any professional to get rid of this illness. In the film it is not shown the reason of how David got this illness. Therapies like behavioral therapy is the most effective method to make the patient get rid of this disorder (Giddens,

Friday, November 1, 2019

Final Exam Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Final Exam - Coursework Example Since the northern states had more private wealth of their own, the southern government had to borrow money from them and help restore their economy (Knowles & Healey, 2006). By the time the civil war was coming to an end, the value of the Confederate dollar had really dropped in comparison to the Union money. Life became so expensive in the south and people started starving due the inflation of the price of even basic needs including food commodities. Slavery was also legalized with most slaves being African Americans who worked nonstop in their employers’ cotton. With the slaves no longer available, it meant that no more cotton was being produced hence no income from it (Harris, 2008). In the political realm, southern leaders came back to the Washington capital and the federal government controlled each of the southern sates one by one. Abraham Lincoln initialized strategic plans for reconstructing the southern states. In the year 1865, he introduced a bureau that gave the once slaves a right to get educated, be employed with better jobs and get good healthcare. An amendment was also introduced that totally did away with the once legalized slavery. On my own individual account, I would have liked to live from the years 1866 onwards due to the good leadership implemented by Lincoln because there were job opportunities, good healthcare facilities and also the southern and northern states were united (Gillman, 2002). In the 20th century, the U.S historical course changed whereby a great industrial revolution took place, to the extent of becoming the best in the world in terms of industrial management and output. Availability of land, labour, natural resources, capital and good transport networks lead to production and transport of many goods and services that increased the annual income of the citizens after the previous inflation. The present-day America has got large and

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

'In company reporting, the measurement of the amount of impairment of Essay

'In company reporting, the measurement of the amount of impairment of many types of assets is so subjective as to be meaningless - Essay Example For that financial activity, they are totally free to judge, determine and allocate their impairment estimation. The International Financial Reporting Standards, which are commonly known as IFRS, are unable to provide any guidance for the purpose of having an authorised and agreed way of judging and assigning the level of fixed assets impairment. After determining and issuing the International Accounting Standards number 36, in short IAS 36, the management of IFRS has become satisfied that they have successfully played and performed their job in the most positive way. Unfortunately, this level of contribution from the management of IFRS has only increased the use of subjectivity for the purpose of determining and assigning impairment for fixed assets. A huge amount of possible implications cannot be avoided. Many companies use this type of freedom to determine and allocate that level of impairment that may only support the interests of management at the cost of real owners-the shareh olders. By determining the level of impairment for different types of assets, many companies become successful in engineering the type of financial statements that they want to show and declare in the public. Multiple impacts can be appeared on the financial statements. For example, for the statement of comprehensive income, the impact of impairment would be that it would show less net profit than it could have shown in case of no loss of impairment. Furthermore, this would directly and negatively show its effects on dividends of the company as well. Due to the occurrence of the impairment loss, the company is required to reduce the amount of profit. Consequently, less amount of dividend would be announced and given to the shareholders of the company. The shareholders could have given more dividends if the company had not shown the occurrence of the impairment loss. Additionally, if the amount of impairment is substantial and material, then undoubtedly, this would negatively impact on the valuation of the business of the company; aggregately, company may experience a reduced level of confidence by shareholders, individual and institutional investors as well. In the same context, the announcement of material impairment could impact on a share price of the company. And this impact would show its presence by forcing the share price to reduce its current level of price to the level of reduced amount. All in all, the use of subjectivity for the purpose of determining a particular amount of impairment has put a considerable amount of impact on the financial statements, share price, reduced amount of dividends, tax saving, and other short term and long term impacts. International Accounting Standard 36: Impairment of assets The main and fundamental aim of this standard is to ensure that the long term fixed assets are carried and incorporated into the financial statements at no more than their recoverable amount. Before going to further understand and analyse the conc ept and application of impairment, it is highly important to define and understand the meaning of assets which come directly under the ambit of impairment loss. International Accounting Standards Board has defined the concept of asset as â€Å" an asset of an entity is (a) cash held by the entity; (b) a present right of the entity to cash; or

Monday, October 28, 2019

Research Summary and Ethical Considerations Essay Example for Free

Research Summary and Ethical Considerations Essay â€Å"According to statistics presented by the National Interview Survey (2010) there are approximately 7.1 million children in the United States who have asthma.† (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [USDHHS], Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Health Statistics [CDCNCHS], 2010). â€Å"Asthma is an inflammatory disease that is characterized by airway obstruction and may cause episodes of wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.† (Walker, 2012). â€Å"Studies have shown that these symptoms are difficult to manage in obese asthmatic children as the medications used to treat asthma are less effective on them due to the added weight. This paper summarizes a quantitative study showing that enhanced physical activity and asthma management education can reduce asthmatic symptoms in children.† (Haines Kim, 2013). It includes introduction, background, methods, results, ethical considerations and conclusion summary of the study. Introduction â€Å"Children with asthma are at risk for obesity and resultant severity of the disease due to their reluctance towards physical activity. In order to prevent this risk an educational and activity program was developed for elementary schoolchildren with moderate persistent asthma utilizing a quantitative study design. The introduction of this program resulted in significant improvement in lung conditions and reduction of the number of emergency room visits while potentially reducing the risk of obesity later in life.† (Haines Kim, 2013). Background of Study â€Å"Reports show that seventy five percent of all children in the United States who need emergent care due to their asthma are overweight. Children with  moderate to severe persistent asthma have a higher incidence of also being obese. Obese asthmatics are less responsive to medications used to treat asthma. The reluctance to physical activity is due to the fear of asthma attack with exercise. This leads to obesity and obesity leads to more severe asthma symptoms. In order to break this cycle effective intervention is necessary. The most effective intervention is increased physical activity. Developing and evaluating understanding the mechanisms of asthma control and promoting physical activity in participating asthmatic elementary school-aged children was a pilot program resulting in reduced severity of asthma symptoms which was also the purpose of the study.† (Haines Kim, 2013). This study is significant for nurses as they take care of children with asthma in clinics an d hospitals effectively intervening to improve their health. Methods of Study â€Å"A quantitative, non-experimental, longitudinal design was used to evaluate a pilot asthma program with emphasis on physical activity in order to improve asthma control among children with moderate persistent asthma. Asthma symptoms, lung condition, and willingness to participate in physical exercise were compared before and one month after the six week asthma program. As a pilot study, this program was an intervention-only program without a control group. The sample was collected from participants of Breathe LA’s Lung Power program with moderate persistent asthma. Ten children between the ages of seven to twelve years old both males and females who volunteered for the study were selected for a six week asthma program. Barriers to proper asthma management were identified and treated by parental interviews. Introductory and concluding spirometry tests were done to assess the actual improvement in lung volume post program. Physical activity was closely monitored and performed only after sufficient management skills were taught to and reinforced by the participants and parents. Six lessons were prepared and delivered over two hours weekly sessions.† (Haines Kim, 2013). Results of Study â€Å"Throughout the six week program the participants’ asthmatic attack rates dropped significantly. Weekly and monthly asthmatic incidences also decreased significantly. Although not statistically significant, emergency  room visits dropped after the six week program and the participants also engaged in significantly more physical activities in a given week and month compared to pre-program activities. The spirometry test post-program results showed a slight, but significant increase in lung volume.† (Haines Kim, 2013). The implications of this study to nursing are very significant. Being the caregiver to children with asthma in clinics and hospitals nurses can make a huge difference in their lives by sharing the significant findings of the study and incorporating it in their daily care regimen. Teaching proper symptom management and physical activity to parents and children will significantly improve their health. Ethical Considerations of Study The authors are affiliated with California State University Fullerton and the study was reviewed by editorial board, blind peer, and expert peer. The study sample was a sub-group of pre-existing participants of the Breathe LA’s Lung Power program. In adherence to the code of ethics for the research study patient privacy was protected through the initial program. Only patients who volunteered were included in the study and the program was held in the Breathe LA facility located in Los Angeles. â€Å"Facilitators present throughout the program included a respiratory therapist and volunteer respiratory therapy students.† (Haines Kim, 2013). Parents were to observe at all times and intervene as appropriate to the study. The article fails to mention approval acquired from an institutional review board. There is a possibility that there may be a blanket consent that covers the research study via the initial Lung Power program which was in accordance to laws in Los Angeles. Conclusion â€Å"Children with asthma represent a population group more prone to becoming obese than their non-asthmatic counterparts. Understanding the mechanism of what causes asthma and being able to control asthma enough to engage in physical activity is significant. Therefore, future asthma management programs should incorporate more supervised physical exercises. Educators, therapists, nurses, parents and coaches need to understand that moderate physical exercise is a remedy for asthma symptoms, not the cause and should take an active role in providing asthma education for children with moderate persistent asthma. Increasing supervised, moderate physical exercise for  these children can reduce asthmatic symptoms and risk for obesity later in life.† (Haines Kim, 2013). References U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Health Statistics. (2010). Summary health statistics for U.S. children: National Health Interview Survey, 2009. (DHHS Publication No. (PHS)-2011-1575). Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/series/sr10/sr10247.pdf Walker, V. (2012). Factors Related to Emotional Responses in School-aged Children Who Have Asthma. Issues In Mental Health Nursing, 33(7), 406-429. doi:10.3109/01612840.2012.682327 Haines, M. S., Kim, D. H. (2013). A Study of the Effects of Physical Activity on Asthmatic Symptoms and Obesity Risk in Elementary School-Aged Children. American Journal Of Health Education, 44(3), 156-161. doi:10.1080/19325037.2013.779905

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Aphrodite :: essays research papers

APHRODITE (a-fro-DYE-tee; Roman name Venus) was the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. She was also a protectress of sailors. The poet Hesiod said that Aphrodite was born from sea-foam. Homer, on the other hand, said that she was the daughter of Zeus and Dione. When the Trojan prince Paris was asked to judge which of three Olympian goddesses was the most beautiful, he chose Aphrodite over Hera and Athena. The latter two had hoped to bribe him with power and victory in battle, but Aphrodite offered the love of the most beautiful woman in the world. This was Helen of Sparta, who became infamous as Helen of Troy when Paris subsequently eloped with her. In the ensuing Trojan War, Hera and Athena were implacable enemies of Troy while Aphrodite was loyal to Paris and the Trojans. IN HOMER In his epic of the Trojan War, Homer tells how Aphrodite intervened in battle to save her son Aeneas, a Trojan ally. The Greek hero Diomedes, who had been on the verge of killing Aeneas, attacked the goddess herself, wounding her on the wrist with his spear and causing the ichor to flow. (Ichor is what immortals have in the place of blood.) Aphrodite promptly dropped Aeneas, who was rescued by Apollo, another Olympian sponsor of the Trojans. In pain she sought out her brother Ares, the god of war who stood nearby admiring the carnage, and borrowed his chariot so that she might fly up to Olympus. There she goes crying to her mother Dione, who soothes her and cures her wound. Her father Zeus tells her to leave war to the likes of Ares and Athena, while devoting herself to the business of marriage. Elsewhere in Homer's Iliad , Aphrodite saves Paris when he is about to be killed in single combat by Menelaus. The goddess wraps him in a mist and spirits him away, setting him down in his own bedroom in Troy. She then appears to Helen in the guise of an elderly handmaiden and tells her that Paris is waiting for her. Helen recognizes the goddess in disguise and asks if she is being led once more to ruin. For Aphrodite had bewitched her into leaving her husband Menelaus to run off with Paris. She dares to suggest that Aphrodite go to Paris herself. Suddenly furious, the goddess warns Helen not to go too far, lest she be abandoned to the hatred of Greeks and Trojans alike.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

A Cultural Problem, an Economic Crisis Essay -- Economics Finance

In the past two years, Western society has experienced what many of its leaders have called the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. At the very least, it has been the worst period of instability that our younger generations have ever seen in their lifetimes. But unlike other financial crises that have largely been triggered by external forces, such as the oil embargoes of the 1970’s, this latest one was a product of our own internal policies and practices; even more so, of our cultural outlooks on the very notion of finance, credit, and debt itself. Specifically, the financial crisis that has just come to pass was the result of the new culture of neo-liberalism and the hyper-individuality and debt-based consumption that it brought with it. What’s worse is that, without an admission of this new culture, or any effort to change it, our current economic system will be regularly plagued with such crises from here on into the future. Before any efforts can be made towards a cultural shift however, we must first understand, at least briefly, the current socio-political ideas that are creating such issues in the modern western market. As Kotz and McDonough put it, â€Å"the concept of ‘global neo-liberalism’ best captures the contemporary social reality.† This ‘new social reality’ was, as they put it, a return to older liberalism, and a retreat from the more government-controlled, Keynesian style of the post-war years. With this relaxing of government control or influence over the markets, we saw an emergence of a new individualistic, and privatized outlook on the market system. Neo-liberalism as doctrine, creed, or culture, or whatever you may call it, became almost something of a throwback to the early days of capitalism... ...olitical Economy. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2001. Dumenil, Gerard and Levy, Dominique. â€Å"The economics of US imperialism at the turn of the 21st century,† Review of International Political Economy, 11:4 (2004), pp. 657-676. Retrieved from EBSCO, 21 April 2010. Eichengreen, Barry. â€Å"The Last Temptations of Risk,† National Interest, 101 (2009), pp. 8-14. Retrieved from EBSCO, 21 April 2010. McDonough, Terrence, Michael Reich and David M. Kotz, eds. Contemporary Capitalism and Its Crises: Social Structure of Accumulation Theory for the 21st Century. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2010. Smart, Barry. Economy, Culture and Society: A sociological critique of neo-liberalism. Buckingham: Open University Press, 2003. Westra, Richard, ed. Confronting Global Neoliberalism: Third World Resistance and Development Strategies. Atlanta: Clarity Press, 2010.