Wednesday, November 27, 2019

The Origins of the Roman Festival Lupercalia

The Origins of the Roman Festival Lupercalia Lupercalia is one of the most ancient of the Roman holidays (one of the feriae listed on ancient calendars from even before the time Julius Caesar reformed the calendar). It is familiar to us today for two main reasons: It is associated with Valentines Day.It is the setting for Caesars refusal of the crown that was made immortal by Shakespeare, in his ​Julius Caesar. This is important in two ways: the association of Julius Caesar and the Lupercalia gives us some insight into the final months of Caesars life as well as a look at the Roman holiday. The name of the Lupercalia was talked about a lot in the wake of the 2007 discovery of the legendary Lupercal cave  - where, supposedly, the twins Romulus and Remus were suckled by a she-wolf. The Lupercalia may be the longest-lasting of the Roman pagan festivals. Some modern Christian festivals, like Christmas and Easter, took on elements of earlier pagan religions, but they are not essentially Roman, pagan holidays. Lupercalia may have started at the time of the founding of Rome (traditionally 753 B.C.) or even before. It ended about 1200 years later, at the end of the 5th century A.D., at least in the West, although it continued in the East for another few centuries. There may be many reasons why Lupercalia lasted so long, but most important must have been its wide appeal. Why Is Lupercalia Associated With Valentine's Day? If all you know about Lupercalia is that it was the background for Mark Antony to offer the crown to Caesar 3 times in Act I of Shakespeares Julius Caesar, you probably wouldnt guess that Lupercalia was associated with Valentines Day. Other than Lupercalia, the big calendar event in Shakespeares tragedy is the Ides of March, March 15. Although scholars have argued that Shakespeare did not intend to portray Lupercalia as the day before the assassination, it sure sounds that way. Cicero points to the danger to the Republic that Caesar presented on this Lupercalia, according to J.A. North- a danger the assassins addressed on that Ides. It was also, to quote Cicero (Philippic I3): that day on which, sodden with wine, smothered with perfumes and naked (Antony) dared to urge the groaning people of Rome into slavery by offering Caesar the diadem that symbolized the kingship.Caesar at the Lupercalia, by J. A. North; The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 98 (2008), pp. 144-160 Chronologically, Lupercalia was a full month before the Ides of March. Lupercalia was February 15 or February 13-15, a period either proximate to or covering modern Valentines Day. History of Lupercalia Lupercalia conventionally starts with the founding of Rome (traditionally, 753 B.C.), but may be a more ancient import, coming from Greek Arcadia and honoring Lycaean  Pan, the Roman  Inuus  or Faunus. [Lycaean is a word connected with the Greek for wolf as seen in the term lycanthropy for werewolf.] Agnes Kirsopp Michaels says Lupercalia only goes back to the 5th century B.C. Tradition has the legendary twin brothers Romulus and Remus establishing the Lupercalia with 2  gentes, one for each brother. Each  gens  contributed members to the priestly college that performed the ceremonies, with Jupiters priest, the  flamen  dialis, in charge, from at least the time of  Augustus. The priestly college was called the  Sodales Luperci  and the priests were known as  Luperci. The original 2  gentes  were the Fabii, on behalf of Remus, and the Quinctilii, for Romulus. Anecdotally, the Fabii were almost annihilated, in 479. at  Cremera  (Veientine  Wars) and the most famous member of the Quinctilii has the distinction of being the Roman leader at the disastrous battle at  Teutoberg Forest  (Varus and the Disaster at Teutoberg Wald). Later, Julius Caesar made a short-lived addition to the  gentes  who could serve as Luperci, the Julii. When Mark Antony ran as a Luperci in 44 B.C., it was the first time the Luperci Juliani had appeared at the Lupercalia and Antony was their leader. By September of the same year, Antony was complaining that the new group had been disbanded [J. A. North and Neil McLynn]. Although originally the Luperci had to be aristocrats, the  Sodales Luperci  came to include equestrians, and then, the lower classes. Etymologically, Luperci, Lupercalia, and Lupercal all relate to the Latin for wolf  lupus, as do various Latin words connected with brothels. The Latin for she-wolf was slang for prostitute. The legends say that Romulus and Remus were nursed by a she-wolf in the Lupercal. Servius, a  4th-century  pagan commentator on  Vergil, says that it was in the Lupercal that  Mars  ravished and impregnated the twins mother. (Servius  ad. Aen. 1.273) The Performance The cavorting  Sodales Luperci  performed an annual purification of the city in the month for purification February. Since early in Roman history March was the start of the New Year, the period of February was a time to get rid of the old and prepare for the new. There were two stages to the events of the Lupercalia: The first was at the site where the twins Romulus and Remus were said to have been found being suckled by the she-wolf. This is the Lupercal. There, priests sacrificed a goat and a dog whose blood they smeared on the foreheads of the young men who would soon go prancing naked around the Palatine (or sacred way) aka the Luperci. The hide of the sacrificial animals was cut into strips for use as lashes by the Luperci after the necessary feasts and drinking.Following the feast, the second stage began, with the Luperci running around naked, joking, and hitting women with their goatskin thongs. Naked or scantily-clad festival celebrants, the Luperci probably ran about the area of the  Palatine  settlement. Cicero [Phil. 2.34, 43; 3.5; 13.15] is indignant at a  nudus,  unctus,  ebrius  naked, oiled, drunk Antony serving as Lupercus. We dont know why the Luperci were naked.  Plutarch  says it was for speed. While running, the Luperci struck those men or women they encountered with goatskin thongs (or perhaps a  lagobolon  throwing stick in the early years) following the opening event: a sacrifice of goat or goat and dog. If the Luperci, in their run, circled the Palatine Hill, it would have been impossible for Caesar, who was at the rostra, to have witnessed the entire proceedings from one spot. He could, however, have seen the climax. The naked Luperci started at the Lupercal, ran (wherever they ran, Palatine Hill or elsewhere), and ended at the Comitium. The running of the Luperci was a spectacle. Wiseman says  Varro  called the Luperci actors (ludii). The first stone theater in Rome was to have overlooked the Lupercal. There is even a reference in Lactantius to the Luperci wearing dramatic masks. Speculation abounds as to the reason for the striking with the thongs or  lagobola. Perhaps the Luperci struck men and women to sever any deadly influence they were under, as Michaels suggests. That they might be under such an influence has to do with the fact that one of the festivals to honor the dead, the Parentalia, occurred at about the same time. If the act was to ensure fertility, it could be that the striking of the women was to represent penetration. Wiseman says that obviously, the husbands wouldnt have wanted the Luperci actually copulating with their wives, but symbolic penetration, broken skin, made by a piece of a fertility symbol (goat), could be effective. Striking women is thought to have been a fertility measure, but there was also a decided sexual component. The women may have bared their backs to the thongs from the festivals inception. According to Wiseman (citing Suet. Aug.), after 276 B.C., young married women (matronae) were encouraged to bare their bodies. Augustus ruled out beardless young men from serving as Luperci because of their irresistibility, even though they were probably no longer naked. Some classical writers refer to the Luperci as wearing goatskin loincloths by the 1st century B.C. Goats and the Lupercalia Goats are symbols of sexuality and fertility.  Amaltheas goat horn brimming with milk became the  cornucopia. One of the most lascivious of the gods was Pan/Faunus, represented as having horns and a caprine bottom half. Ovid (through whom we are chiefly familiar with the events of the Lupercalia) names him as the god of the Lupercalia. Before the run, the Luperci priests performed their sacrifices of goats or goats and dog, which Plutarch calls the enemy of the wolf. This leads to another of the problems scholars discuss, the fact that the  flamen  dialis  was present at the Lupercalia (Ovid  Fasti  2. 267-452) in the time of Augustus. This priest of Jupiter was forbidden to touch a dog or goat and may have been forbidden even to look at a dog. Holleman suggests that Augustus added the presence of the  flamen  dialis  to a ceremony at which he had earlier been absent. Another Augustan innovation may have been the goatskin on previously naked Luperci, which would h ave been part of an attempt to make the ceremony decent. Flagellation By the second century A.D. some of the elements of sexuality had been removed from the Lupercalia. Fully dressed matrons stretched out their hands to be whipped. Later, the representations show women humiliated by flagellation at the hands of men fully dressed and no longer running about. Self-flagellation was part of the rites of Cybele on the day of blood  dies  sanguinis  (March 16). Roman flagellation could be fatal. Horace (Sat., I, iii) writes about  horribile  flagellum, but the whip so used may have been a rougher sort. Scourging became a common practice in the monastic communities. It would seem likely, and we think Wiseman agrees (p. 17), that with the early churchs attitudes towards women and mortification of the flesh, Lupercalia fit right in despite its association with a pagan deity. In The God of the Lupercalia, T. P. Wiseman suggests a variety of related gods may have been the god of the Lupercalia. As mentioned above, Ovid counted Faunus as the god of the Lupercalia. For Livy, it was  Inuus. Other possibilities include Mars, Juno, Pan, Lupercus, Lycaeus, Bacchus, and Februus. The god itself was less important than the festival. The End of the Lupercalia Sacrifice, which was a part of  Roman  ritual, had been prohibited since A.D. 341, but the Lupercalia survived beyond this date. Generally, the end of the Lupercalia festival is attributed to  Pope Gelasius  (494-496). Wiseman believes it was another late  5th century  pope,  Felix III. The ritual had become important to the civic life of Rome and was believed to help prevent pestilence, but as the pope charged, it was no longer being performed in the proper manner. Instead of the noble families running around naked (or in a loincloth), riffraff was running around clothed. The pope also mentioned that it was more a fertility festival than a purification rite and there was pestilence even when the ritual was performed. The popes lengthy document seems to have put an end to the celebration of Lupercalia in Rome, but in  Constantinople, again, according to Wiseman, the festival continued to the tenth century. Sources Caesar at the Lupercalia, by J. A. North;  The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 98 (2008), pp. 144-160.An Enigmatic Function of the Flamen Dialis (Ovid, Fast., 2.282) and the Augustan Reform, by A. W. J. Holleman.  Numen, Vol. 20, Fasc. 3. (Dec.,  1973), pp. 222-228.The God of the Lupercal, by T. P. Wiseman.  The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 85. (1995), pp. 1-22.Postscript to the Lupercalia: From Caesar to Andromachus, by J. A. North and Neil McLynn;  The Journal of Roman Studies, Vol. 98 (2008), pp. 176-181.Some Notes on the Lupercalia, by E. Sachs.  The American Journal of Philology, Vol. 84, No. 3. (Jul.,  1963), pp. 266-279.The Topography and Interpretation of the Lupercalia, by Agnes Kirsopp Michels.  Transactions and Proceedings of the American Philological Association, Vol. 84. (1953), pp. 35-59.The Lupercalia in the Fifth Century, by William M. Green.  Classical Philology, Vol. 26, No. 1. (Jan.,  1931), pp. 60-69.

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Exceptions in the Rules of Hyphenation

Exceptions in the Rules of Hyphenation Exceptions in the Rules of Hyphenation Exceptions in the Rules of Hyphenation By Mark Nichol After thumbing through the dictionary or perusing a usage guide, you’d think that the trend in American English and, to a lesser extent, in British English is to omit hyphens from words consisting of a prefix attached to the root word. But reality begs to differ. Mail sent from nonprofit organizations invariably features the word non-profit in the upper right-hand corner, where a stamp would normally be placed. (By contrast, the US Postal Service, on its Web site, correctly styles the term nonprofit but the Internal Revenue Service employs the hyphen, as do many such organizations.) Commercial Web sites and product catalogs invite customers to plan ahead, using the word pre-order, though the dictionary listing is preorder. And many print or online references to peace movements feature the term anti-war, despite the designation of the standard form in virtually all writing resources as antiwar. So, why do descriptivist and prescriptivist handbooks alike exhort readers to close the gap, when so many people who use the English language to communicate in writing ignore or are ignorant of the authorities’ citations? The natural trend in associating words or parts of words is to first combine them in open compounds, later hyphenate them as they become more established, and finally convert them into closed compounds when familiarity is thoroughly achieved (though many compounds remain open or hyphenated long after these evolutionary stages seem overdue). But most writers seemingly a majority of amateurs and definitely too many professionals don’t pay attention to such details, though the standard is easily ascertained by a glance in a dictionary or another resource. The exceptions to the preponderance of closed prefixes are relatively few and more or less simple. Retain a hyphen in the following cases: When the root word is a proper noun (post-Depression) or a number (pre-1914) When the prefix precedes an existing prefix (non-self-governing) When the prefix precedes a proper open compound (â€Å"pre-Civil War†) in such a case, the symbol should technically be an en dash, to help clarify that pre- modifies â€Å"Civil War,† not just the word it is actually attached to, but many publications, print and online, use a simple hyphen When two instances of the letter i or the letter a are adjacent (anti-intellectual, extra-action), or another combination of letters could hamper reading (pro-labor and many other pro- constructions) When a prefix is repeated (anti-antibody) When suspensive hyphenation is employed (â€Å"over- and understimulation†) Also, some people find it awkward to close up co- and a word starting with c (they prefer co-chair to cochair), with o (co-owner is preferred to coowner), or even with any word (coworker, instead of co-worker, annoys many writers). In addition, there are isolated illogical exceptions. For example, why close up reentry but hyphenate de-emphasis? And an otherwise superfluous hyphen is often inserted to distinguish homographs (as with re-count, â€Å"to tally again,† as opposed to recount, â€Å"to narrate†). Some writers ignore this seemingly overcautious strategy, though a clear context doesn’t necessarily obviate it. (Sometimes, the distinction does seem unnecessary: How many people write recreate as the verb form of recreation compared to using the prevalent usage, meaning â€Å"to create again†? But, oddly, the dominant homograph is given the hyphenated form.) Despite this apparent multitude of deviations from the norm, there is a norm: An overwhelming majority of prefixes are closed. But if you’re ever in doubt, just consult your dictionary. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Grammar category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Spelling Test 15 Brainstorming Strategies for Writers20 Names of Body Parts and Elements and Their Figurative Meanings

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Biology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 8

Biology - Essay Example t is taking place however, is that the overabundance of harmful gases which are a byproduct of fossil fuels, are causing a latticing effect to take place in the ozone layer. The earth’s ozone layer is necessary in order to filter out the sun’s excessive and destructive ultra violet rays. As the ozone layer becomes more and more compromised, the areas of the globe governed by cold temperatures (such as the arctic) are literally rising in temperature causing the melting of polar ice caps. As these ice caps melt and merge into the ocean, warm water oceanic areas are being cooled down to unnaturally low temperatures. This results in a drastic rise in natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes and tornadoes. On a short term level, the animals that inhabit the arctic are finding their environment less and less suitable. Fish are dying due to the drastic oceanic temperature changes while animals like penguins and polar bears are finding less and less available fish. When discussing global warming, the topic of precautionary principle becomes extremely relevant as well. The precautionary principle is essentially a moral principle with political ramifications, which allows for necessary action in the face of possible danger to public health or the environment even without scientific confirmation or agreed substantiation of the threat from the scientific community. In other words, global warming is certainly a global issue and an obvious threat, regardless of the fact that many with conservative view points, argue its validity. Because of this, it is in the world’s best interest to act in a manner which is airing on the side of precaution, in the best interest of pandemic survival. Normal proof policies would indicate that proof rooted in scientific fact is necessary but without exiting the confines of science. The precautionary principle allows for a lack of scientific proof and more of a suspicion with some confirmation based on observati on or

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Friedreich's Ataxia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Friedreich's Ataxia - Essay Example Loss of frataxin in the system results in deregulation of iron levels in the mitochondria causing oxidative stress that kills the cells. This leads to a degeneration of the spinal cord, brain, and nerve communications to the muscles. Symptoms are generally manifested early in life between the ages of 5 and 25. Diagnosis is usually accomplished by observing symptoms and self-reporting of symptoms. Symptoms can include spinal curvature, impaired swallowing, deformed feet, and cardiomyopathy (impaired heart muscles). In addition, with the identification of the specific genes responsible, genetic testing can be done to accurately diagnosis the disease. A family history of Friedreich's Ataxia is also an indicator used in diagnosis. As with many of the ataxias, there is not a cure but there are regimens indicated to treat the specific symptoms. Treatment for Friedreich's ataxia generally requires the close cooperation of multiple physicians in several disciplines. The main overall goal for the patient is to remain in good health by a healthy diet and good physical exercise. Diabetes is often closely correlated with Friedreich's Ataxia and treatment consists of insulin. Further treatment is administered on an as needed basis. Propranolol, a beta blocker, may be prescribed to control muscle spasms.

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Essay Example for Free

Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Essay This memo is in response to the company’s decrease in sales and profit because of the current state of the economy. The company will be executing more cost-effective measures because of this present situation. These new procedures will begin immediately with approval from the company owners. The first change will be a reduction in the monetary incentives for the sales department. To be successful in implementing this change a complete understanding of the sales process is mandatory. Consumer and salespeople feedback will be instrumental in gathering the data necessary to make a concise and informed decision on the best way to reduce the incentives for every party involved. The first step in the decision-making process is determining the facts of the situation at hand (Hartman DesJardins, 2011, p. 47). The facts are that the company is losing income because of the economy. Additionally known is the company profits are on the finished product that meets the need of the consumer. A written survey will ascertain what the specific needs and wants of the consumer toward a particular product are. Once the feedback is analyzed, the products most in demand by the consumer will continue with production, whereas the products in less demand will begin interruption until the sales or the demand from the consumer are in need. This step will aid in cutting costs for products with unnecessary production. As an example, there was a significant increase in sales the first few years, opposed to last year’s sales that decreased substantially for the products not in demand. By investigating and discovering products in demand will aid in painting a clearer picture, thus assisting in cutting production cost that will get the company back in line with increasing sales and profits. Additionally, investigating and discovering will keep the plan of reducing monetary incentives for the sales force until sales and profits are on the increase again. However, the plan is to once again start issuing monetary incentives to the sales force once the company starts again seeing an increase in sales and profits. For this plan to be successful it will be necessary to motivate the sales force with tools to set achievable goals relating to increasing company sales and profits. This also has a direct impact on the sales force pertaining to the company’s organization and management. Upper management as well as the owners of the company has to be on the same accord concerning aiding the sales department in reaching their goals by providing motivation and support to the sales department. A strong support system is imperative if the sales team along with the organization is to reach their primary objectives. This plan will also include evaluations on the progress of the sales department pertaining to reaching their goals. The second and final change will be implementing a month-long layoff for some of the production employees. Laying-off production workers for a month will cut production costs of producing products unnecessary for the economy. While keeping in mind that this layoff will also have an adverse result on producing products in demand. Instead of laying off production workers, the more cost-effective way would be to keep them at work to help meet the current demand for products. The workers still working with the organization will receive more overtime, and this is not cost-effective because the result is increasing payroll for employees. Although removing monetary incentives for the sales department and laying-off a portion of the production department is legal, it does nothing for morale. Ethically there will be some repercussions to implementing these changes. Some of the repercussions may include employees leaving the organization and a decline in sales means possible bankruptcy. Implementing a more amicable plan will have a more positive influence that will promote a higher morale and happiness. With a higher morale, this will more likely promote a boost in productivity.

Friday, November 15, 2019

Affirmative Action Essay: Time to Stop Special Privileges

Affirmative Action: Time to Stop Special Privileges      Ã‚  Ã‚   Imaging being a young, black, grad-student, fresh out of law-school, looking for a job. You find and apply for the career of your dreams, only to find later that you didn't get the job. Petitioning the employer for an explanation, you find that you weren't hired due to the color of your skin. Wouldn't this enrage you? Would you cry "discrimination", and take the employer to court? Many people would sympathize with you and grant you the decision in the court case. Discrimination like that has no place in today's society. Now imagine the exact same scenario, only instead of being black, you're white. You find and apply for the career of your dreams, only to find later that you didn't get the job. Petitioning the employer for an explanation, you find you weren't hired due to the color of your skin. Wouldn't this enrage you? Would you cry "discrimination", and take the employer to court? Most people in today's society would have no sympathy for you. Because of being white, i t is assumed that you've had more opportunities and more people have helped you on your way in life. Is this fair? In two scenarios, identical in everything except for skin tone, two complete opposite conclusions have been drawn. What brought this about?    "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal." (Declaration of Independence . pp. 20)      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The United States was founded on the ideals that equality was a right of all mankind, and all people should be allowed to better their lives. However, the existence of slavery took away these rights from African-Americans. After the Civil War abolished slavery, many white people believed blacks were inferior and the... ...e available to all, or none.       Bibliography    Biskupic, Joan. "Affirmative-action ban gets green light" The Denver Post . Nov. 4, 1997    "Declaration ofIndependance" The World's Great Classics. Basic Documents of American History. New York:Grolier, Inc. pp. 20-25    Gwynne, S.C. "Back to the Future" Time . Jun. 2, 1997. pp. 48 Hutchison, Keely. Positive and Negative Implications for Individuals. [online] University of South Carolina. Available: http://ecuvax.cis.ecu.edu/academics/schdept/psych/Impla1.htm    Pooley, Eric. "Fairness or Folly?" Time . Jun. 23, 1997. pp. 32-36 Tyson, Amanda. History of Affirmative Action. [online] University of South Carolina. Available: http://ecuvax.cis.ecu.edu/academics/schdept/psych/ahist.htm    Whitaker, William A. "Affirmative Reaction" Harper's Magazine . May1997. p. 24-25

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Problem-Oriented Policing Essay

According to Dictionary.com, â€Å"policing is to regulate, control, or keep in order with or as if with a law enforcement agency.† The art of policing has changed significantly for many different reasons but mainly to accommodate the times. Crime rates have gone up substantially when compared to 50 years ago. Much of the reason why this may be is the easy accessibility to gory movies, the glamorization of criminal activity, and the poverty that exists here in America. It is important as well as essential to devise strategies to counter the criminal activity with a solid plan for future stability of our communities. According to Gene Stephens’s article, Policing the Future, â€Å"When public policing was formally instituted in London in 1829, the emphasis was on preventing crime: the public and officers themselves regarded successful policing as the absence of crime, (2005).† Although this concept was some time ago, it seems far fetched because nowadays when you consider crime in our communities, it is considered sensible to have a mere reduction of crime, rather than the absence. This is true in all aspects of life, whether you are traveling or walking alone in the park at night, the most reasonable person often considers the threat of potentially being a victim of a crime. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the past policing issues and the way ahead in effective policing strategies. In addition, this paper will discuss factors that affect the increase of criminal activity, i.e. immigration and poverty. Lastly, this paper will discuss new strategy outcomes for the road ahead. Policing Issues In the past, policing strategies did not have to work so diligently against technology. During the 1940s and 1950s, the information infrastructure paled in comparison to the current day super highway we negotiate today. However, the 40s and 50s was a time where organized crime  spiked in activities such as extortion, racketeering, illegal distribution of alcohol and weapons, and other criminal activity. It is speculated that many attributes that facilitated this climb was because of the influx of immigration and the popular crime comics. The United States was and is considered a melting pot for people trying to migrate from other countries. The War Brides Act of 1945 and the Displaced Person Act of 1948 and in1950 initiated large populations of immigrants which allowed several hundred thousand immigrants from Europe, Canada and Mexico to enter the US. With little to no work for such a flooding of people, many were forced to turn to criminal activity to survive. According to the Bureau of Justice statistics (2002), â€Å"Not only does immigration contribute to the poverty that breeds crime, but many aliens have criminal careers: 29% of the inmates are aliens.† Crime comics were popular comics books produced during the earlier 40s and 50s that depicted organized outlaws and plots of gangster activity which may have possibly developed a compulsion for acts of disorder. The American Medical Association, together with five other public-health organizations, issued a joint statement on the risk of exposure to media violence (Joint Statement, 2000). It is probable that crime will continue simply due to the need for blood shed and violence on the movie screen. The effect of continued feeding of this â€Å"growing monster† by the media is not likely to decrease anytime soon. New Strategy Outcomes There have been many discussions that suggest that the future of policing criminal activity and disorder is a â€Å"fight† that can not be completely won; instead it is something that can only be reduced. There are several initiatives currently being utilized to mitigate and subsequently eradicate violence within communities. Problem–Oriented policing (POP) concepts are used as a â€Å"different approach to the complexity of the policing role.† (Walker & Katz, 2005). In an article, Professor Goldstein stated that â€Å"Problem-oriented policing places a high value on new responses that are preventive in nature, that are not dependent on the use of the criminal justice system, and that engage other public agencies, the community and the private sector when their involvement has the potential for significantly contributing to the reduction of the problem.† (Goldstein, 2001) The  key elements of POP that the police officer must focus on are: Evaluation of the problem Importance of solid analysis Developing responses Tapping in to other resources (Goldstein, 2006) This step by step process is designed as a means to deliberately and efficiently approach this concept. In the evaluation phase, the problem or the criminal activity is considered. The intent should not merely be a quick fix but identifying and dealing the source of the problem. Solid analysis is the consolidation of facts and circumstances that contribute to issues. The base problem must be completely understood during this function. Next, consider all developed and suggested responses should follow from what is learned during analysis. Lastly, the process of tapping into resources through surveying of neighborhoods and their residents, or soliciting assistance from community members and other government agencies. This will allow information sharing to take place and generate community responsibility and oversight. (Australian Institute of Criminology, 2004) Summary/Conclusion Policing strategies are used for many different means of control, discipline, and order in what is typically viewed as chaos. Policing needs of the past have changed along with the times. The reasons for policing can range from crowd control to war. Determining the underlying problems are a solid methodology in determining which policing strategies should be used. But some fundamental approaches through the utilization of POP will produce long term affects and prevent disorder by analysis and intervention strategies. The purpose of this paper was to discuss the past and present policing issues and the way ahead in effective policing strategies. In addition, this paper discussed factors that affect the increase of criminal activity, i.e. immigration and poverty. Lastly, this paper will discuss new strategy outcomes for the road ahead. Reference Australian Institute of Criminology, 2004. Retrieved on April 2007, from http://www.aic.gov.au/publications/crm/crm017.pdf Bureau of Justice and Statistics, 2002. Retrieved on April 27, 2007, from http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs Goldstein, Herman, (2006) Center for Problem-Oriented Policing. Retrieved on April 27, 2007, from http://www.popcenter.org/about-whatisPOP.htm Goldstein, Herman, (Draft).(2000) Excellence in Problem-Oriented Policing: The 2000 Herman Goldstein Award Winners Joint Statement, Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children, by America Medical Association, 2000 Policing, (2004). Dictionary.com. Retrieved March 14, 2004 from http://www.dictionary.reference.com Stephens, Gene, (2005) Policing the Future. Retrieved on April 27, 2007, from http://www.policefuturists.org/pdf/M-A2005Futurist_Stephens.pdf Walker, Samuel & Katz, Charles M. (5th Ed). (2005) The Police in America: An introduction McGraw-Hill

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Ethical Issues with Illegaly Downloading Music

For years now people have found ways to take music off the Internet and put it onto their own computer, iPod, or blank CD. It all started in 1999 with the creation of Napster. Napster introduced a revolutionary new idea that was to forever change the way people thought about music: peer to peer file sharing. Peer to peer file sharing, often abbreviated as simply p2p, allows different users swap songs, with no regards for copyright infringement.Now the most popular way to take music off the Internet is to use one of many YouTube to mp3 converter sites These sits allow you to copy a URL from a YouTube video and paste it into a text box on the YouTube to mp3 site which will then convert the video into a music file that is downloaded onto your computer. Many people have different feeling about using these new YouTube to mp3 sites and using older sites similar to Napster. Either way, using sites like that is simply taking music off the web at no cost to oneself. I will go on to defend the idea that illegally downloading music is stealing.Illegally downloading music is no different then going into a store and taking a CD right off the shelf and walking out without paying. I will base my defense on the concept that the artists and the people involved in the music industry have rights. Whenever a song is downloaded off the Internet illegally it is a violation of the artists and the people involved in the music industry’s rights. My first premise is that artists and people in the music industry have the right to be compensated for their hard work. Most artists dream to make it big one day and be paid for the songs that they write and sing.When a person puts in the hard work that it takes to make it to the top they should be compensated for their efforts. However, the artists do not make the music and hit records all on their own. There are many people behind the scenes that contribute to the making of albums. For example there are the people who control the audio equipment and run the recording studio. Everyone involved in the music industry has the right to be compensated for the work that they have done. It is not right for someone to essential go to work, make a product, and then have someone else take it free of charge.My second premise is that illegally downloading music is a form of stealing. Taking something that does not belong to you is against the law. Taking someone thing that has a known money value and not paying one cent is down right stealing. One credible analysis by the Institute for Policy Innovation concludes that global music piracy causes $12. 5 billion of economic losses every year, 71,060 U. S. jobs lost, a loss of $2. 7 billion in workers' earnings, and a loss of $422 million in tax revenues, $291 million in personal income tax and $131 million in lost corporate income and production taxes.So not only are revenues are being affected by this music theft but jobs are being stolen away as well. Some people feel that the artists do not deserve all of the money that it costs to purchase one of their albums or even a single song off of iTunes. When you see pictures, videos, and interviews of music artists they do not look or sound like they are struggling to get by. Now-a-days artists are making profits off of country and worldwide concert tours. Some are even paid for personal appearances. Others have teamed up with various brand names and started endorsing their products while being paid to do so.To the average person it does not feel like taking songs off the Internet is actually affecting the artists themselves. If these famous artists are living the good life it should not matter that the average Joe saves a few dollars and downloads music off the internet. To contour the argument that artists have other ways of making money I will approach the issue in two ways. First of all stealing is stealing. Taking something that does not belong to you is wrong and will always be viewed as wrong. It does n ot matter what is being stolen or whom it is being stolen from.Second of all, as I have mentioned earlier, the artist are not the only people involved in the creating of songs and albums. As the Internet grows and the vast number of illegal downloads grows with it peoples jobs are shrinking. Less and less artists will be able to make music if the up and comers are not making any money to live off of. If new artists are forced to find other ways of making money their music career may never take off. If the number of people making music decreases so will the need for so many behind the scenes people.Overall illegally downloading music off the Internet is what it is, stealing. These actions not only affect the artists but so many more people that we do not always consider. Some feel that it is ok the take music from these famous artists but if it continues less and less music will be created, causing the high percentage of unemployment to only grow larger. When you steal from someone y ou are using him or her as a means to an end. No one should be used as a means to an end, especially when it comes to his or her livelihood.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Tablet Computers and Their Impact Essay

Tablet Computers and Their Impact Essay Tablet Computers Analysis Essay Tablet Computers Analysis Essay The introduction of tablet computers meant that laptops had to be adapted. Tablet computers and laptops are similar in their functioning and they can learn from each other essentially. Tablet computers and laptops are suitable for certain environments and hence, their combined use can bring satisfaction to users. Tablet computers are more advanced than laptops and they have taken the laptops market share. Past research published after 2010 discussed how tablet computers would overtake use of other computers, especially laptops. Tablet Computers and Their Current and Future Impact Current research paper shows that tablet computers are still not as popular as predicted due to various challenges. However, the future of manufacturing tablet computers looks bright if they continue enhancing the computers with advanced features. Past research showed that most tablets were not customized with cameras that could take videos and carry out call functions. Tablet computers have since improved and now users can use them to make calls. Research conducted during introduction of tablet computers showed that tablets did not have accessories, such as keyboard or mouse. Tablet computers are easy to use and have a reliable operating system. They have a long lasting battery and a stylish look (Thomson, 2013). Studies conducted showed that tablets had most features that are found in other gadgets, including music and games. The sale of tablets was stimulated by the easy access to the information by users. However, new research shows that people interested in buying tablets have an interest in watching movies, listening and downloading music, accessing social media, such as Facebook and twitter, as well as online magazines. The popularity of tablet computers rose due to media coverage. Their design contributed to sales and the applications they support helped in popularity (Kenar, 2013). Tablet computers got ranked higher than smartphones. New smartphones are manufactured with dual core processors. Recent studies have showed that people do not believe that the market of tablet computers will replace the smartphones, as smartphones are more portable. Studies showed that tablet computers would not replace smartphones and they would only be used by a little amount people. Almost every phone company produces tablet computers and the market is flooded with many gadgets ranging in prices. In the future, some of the suppliers of tablet PCs are most likely to leave the market (Thomson, 2013). Impact of Tablet Computers in the Medical Field Tablet computers have become affordable and they provide a platform to interact with electronic information fast. Integrating tablet computers in our work practice is an interesting practice. Tablet computers give the user an experience of having better resolution of screen. It processes information fast and improves the web design. In a study conducted at a medical center tablet computers were considered to be of great help as soon as they let the medical trainees to access calculators and medical journals fast. Tablet computers helped retrieve patient materials for educational purposes. Tablet computers used in the medical field were configured with selected applications and pages with clinical tools. The device is now being used by trainers during conferences to make presentations. Though carrying the cumbersome device is inconvenient for some medical practitioners, having them around has made work more efficient (Perez, 2013). Impact of Tablet Computers on Environment New technology emerges every few years. New technology changes people’s lifestyle and transforms the economy of the country. Study conducted on iPad showed that the market of tablet computers was led by Apple and the number of laptops purchased reduced significantly. The study predicted that tablet computers would in the next few years replace desktop computers and laptops at the workplace. However, the research shows that laptops are still being used at large (Tanaka, 2010). Current research paper indicates that distant learning will be accelerated by use of tablet computers, ensuring everyone acquires quality education at a cheaper fee. Students will save hundreds of dollars due to the new innovation. Also, students will use tablet computers to take notes in class. Tablet computers have reduced the use of paper, ink, accommodation space in office, reduced consumption of water during production and commuting expenses. Previous studies have also showed that environmental benefits achieved a higher magnitude. Tablet computers have led to a decline in printing and now they help distribute newspapers, books, movies and magazines electronically. Even though, people still feel the need to have hard copies of document, situation can change with time. Companies manufacturing printers, such as HP have experienced a decrease in ink demand (Ali, 2011). The research paper shows that tablet computers have reduced paper-based booklets, brochures and pamphlets. They have also reduced the fuel used to transport these materials. Tablet computer transforms information into simple data that can be transferred without requiring packaging and production. Tablet computers are cost effective and reduce production waste in companies. The devices are a kind of energy saving initiative that does not need to get subsidized by the government (Clarke 2012). Current research paper shows that tablet computers are eco-friendly due to the fact that they emit low rate of carbon dioxide during their lifetime. To conserve raw materials and energy people, who can afford using tablets, should make transition into its use. However, tablet computers have to be properly disposed in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Manufacturers of electronics have put in place recycling programs. The programs require people to give old and unused electronic devices to these companies for recycling. Past research could not show if tablet computers were eco-friendly and the topic was not discussed at length (Tanaka, 2010). Current research shows that tablet computers have encouraged green business. The gadgets are used to demonstrate products and their services. For example, the Apple store allows customers to view product features and compare products using iPads. Tablet computers encourage online transactions and hence, reducing of paper use. Past studies did not cover the questions of green business as soon as people had not grasped the context of tablet computers (Tanaka, 2010). Social Impact of Tablet Computers Tablet computers have impacted users both positively and negatively. People spend more time using tablet computers at work or home. Students are also subjected to spending lots of hours in front of computers. Technology enables students to access course notes in tablet computers, thus reducing their library visits. Actual books are hardly used for research by students. Search engines available on the Internet have helped student access reliable sources for their coursework. Tablet computers offer students fast processing of school work. The devices are nowadays used for leisure as they contain many games, web pages and music that help people relax. Current research brings about spending so much time on tablet computers that can create health problems. Use of tablet computers is different from use of desktop in respect to posture. Tablet computers give users freedom of devices using due to low weight. The freedom affects the posture of neck and head that can lead to pain and discomfor t. The best position is achieved by placing tablet computers on table top and propping up the screen. Past research discussed the health problems of using laptops and desktop computers with focus to work environment. Current research discusses both home and at work effects of using tablet computers (Marqueses, 2013). Current research paper shows that tablet computers take away people’s rest time, since they are carried to bed due to their portability. Use of tablet computers in darkness is discouraged because they affect rest habits of their users. Previous research showed that tablet computers strained eyes even with backlight displays. The backlight displays are said to affect the ability of the users to fall asleep easily. Using tablet computers for a long time can cause wrist, finger and muscle problems for the user. Children in the twenty first century are exposed to tablet computers at a young age. Children exhibit confidence when using tablet computers. However, the gadgets help children acquire fundamental skills to operate computers. Children gain improved coordination of eyes and hands (Ali, 2011). Past studies have shown that computer screens are known to emit radiation. These rays, when directed to the child’s body, can cause damage. Eyes are most vulnerable to harm as a result of long hours sitting at the computer. However, current research aims at discouraging the children to use computers at a young age. Children should be checked more often by an optician. They should also be encouraged to engage in outdoor activities that are less harmful to the body. Young children should spend more time in the sun to get vitamin D and fresh air. Children, who spend much time at tablet computers, can be easier exposed to obesity as they grow into young adults. Increasing of high pressure and diabetes among children is associated with spending much time at tablet computers (Cocozza, 2014). Current research shows that tablet computers have replaced baby sitters. Parents have admitted giving their children tablet computers to keep them quiet. It is referred to as digital babysitting. Parents are, however, advised to be aware of the danger that comes with kids using tablet computers. Some of the applications on the devices are really helpful for children. However, playtime should not be equated with tablet computers. Current paper is different from past research papers because it discusses current and future impact related to the gadgets. Past research discussed tablet computers features at the time when the research itself was actual. Current research paper describes the recent features, which are new selling points for tablet computers (Ali, 2011). Proposed Work, Methodology and Timeline Current research has covered adequately the information required to make the study complete. Several factors were identified in this study. Consequently, it showed that some of the randomly selected people chosen for research did not know about the tablet computers much. Interviewed people have heard about them but were not interested in gadgets because they had smartphones and laptops and did not know how to apply tablet computers in their lives. Those who showed interest in owning a tablet computer were students who liked to use them for reading online materials. Tablet computers are intended to impact the workplace so the companies have to make a strategy of how to get rid of the desktops and laptops that they are currently using. Current research focuses on the popularity of tablet computers now and in the future. The study used interviews, questionnaires and also observation methods. The Following are the Findings of the Research Presented Current study was conducted by interviewing fifty men and women, who agreed to take part in the research. There were twenty three women and twenty seven men of different age selected for the research. The sample for such data collection was randomly selected. The research shows the popularity of tablet computers, laptops, smartphones and personal computers among interviewed people. Current study showed that laptops were more popular compared to the other three gadgets.The chart below shows the various ways of using tablet computers. The numbers show that tablet computers are mostly used for social media purposes. Studies and reading followed up. Tablet computers are also often used for listening to the music. Taking photos and videos and video streaming showed low results at tablet computers use. The table below shows the ratings on efficiency, impact and future of tablet computers. Majority of people in my study agreed that tablet computers were efficient and contributed to educational development. A relatively high number was not sure about its contribution to education development. The least number of people disagreed that the influence was efficient. Majority of people agreed that tablet computers had a high possibility to substitute laptops. The number of people who were neutral and those who disagreed was almost equal. Moreover, the study showed that most people believe that tablet computers would develop into a more technological device in the future. Only a few people disagreed, that tablet computers would develop into a more technological device. The interviews were not difficult to conduct. They were used to select the right people for the study. The study required people who owned or had access to tablet computers. After the interviews and elimination of unqualified persons, the qualified ones filled a questionnaire with all the questions for the study. Some participants did not fully complete the questionnaire due to the time limits. Some of the participants were selected through observation, by spotting someone with a tablet computer. Current research takes a short time to be conducted. It is cost and time effective due to the methodology used to collect and present data and to the fact that it takes about one month to be conducted. The objectives of current research were determined by the popularity of tablet computers and their impact nowadays and in the future. Finding two participants in a day was enough to conduct the study. The results of the research showed almost equal number of people believing that the use of tablet computers and laptops was similar. Ten people believed that tablet computers would be developed to become better in the future. People who thought tablet computers would remain the same and extinct were ten and twelve respectively. Many people viewed tablet computers as a revolutionary device. Summary of Contributions The research shows the different spheres of tablets computers usage, which include providing fast access to the information and the effectiveness of the device. Data collected from current research was reliable and participants provided the information willingly. The study shows the positive and negative impact of tablet computers on the environment at present and in the future. Past researches on tablet computers focused on the technology used to manufacture it. Current study expounds further the impact of tablet computers. Environment has benefitted from the technology behind the tablet computers. Tablet computers have helped save trees and reduce waste spreading in the environment. The study has shown predictions of how the tablet computers will become popular in the next few years (Perez, 2013). Journalism has fully embraced the use of tablet computers due to their small size and touch screen. Tablet computers support applications that help them to follow the news. More men in my study tend to prefer use of tablet computers compared to laptops, smartphones and personal computers. People at the age between twenty and twenty five showed much interest in the use of tablet computers. Majority of interviewed people indicated that they used tablet computers for about one to three hours. The study showed that tablet computers were mostly used for spending time in social networks followed by study and music. The smallest number of people used tablet computers for taking videos and videos streaming. Tablet computers have enriched lives of their users, but still continuous use of tablet computers also has negative effect. Manufacturers of tablet computers need to extend the market extensively especially aiming at students. Manufacturers should also reduce the price of tablet computers to make them affordable to students and other interested people. People are waiting for the reduction of prices so that they could afford to buy a gadget. Tablet computers have become increasingly popular in the world and the demand continues to increase, though, the level of tablet computers and laptops usage seems similar. People are optimistic about developing new and better innovations than the tablet computers (Perez, 2013).

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

The Facts and History of Cinco de Mayo

The Facts and History of Cinco de Mayo Cinco de Mayo is probably one of the most celebrated and least understood holidays in the world.  What is the meaning behind it? How is it celebrated and what does it mean to Mexicans? There are many misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo and it is more than an excuse to have some nachos and a margarita or two. Its also not a celebration of Mexicos independence as many people think. It is an important day in Mexican history and the holiday has true meaning and importance. Lets get the facts straight about Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo Meaning and History Literally meaning The Fifth of May, Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican Holiday celebrating the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862. It was one of the few Mexican victories during Frances attempt to penetrate Mexico. Contrary to popular belief, this was not the first time that France attacked Mexico.  Back in 1838 and 1839, Mexico and France had fought what was known as  the Pastry War.  During that conflict, France invaded and occupied the city of Veracruz.   In 1861, France sent a massive army to invade Mexico once again. As was the case 20 years earlier, the intent was to collect on debts incurred during and after Mexicos war of independence from Spain. The French army was much larger and better trained and equipped than the Mexicans struggling to defend the road to Mexico City. It rolled through Mexico until it reached Puebla, where the Mexicans made a valiant stand. Against all logic, they won a huge victory. The triumph was short-lived, however. The French army regrouped and continued on, eventually taking Mexico City.   In 1864, the French brought in  Maximilian of Austria. The man who would become Emperor of Mexico was a young European nobleman who barely spoke Spanish. Maximilians heart was in the right place, but most Mexicans did not want him. In 1867, he was overthrown and executed by forces loyal to President Benito Juarez. Despite this turn of events, the euphoria of the unlikely victory at the Battle of Puebla against overwhelming odds is remembered every May 5th. Cinco de Mayo Led to a Dictator During the Battle of Puebla, a young officer named  Porfirio Diaz  distinguished himself. Diaz subsequently rose rapidly through the military ranks as an officer and then as a politician. He even aiding Juarez in the fight against Maximillian. In 1876, Diaz reached the presidency and did not leave until the  Mexican Revolution  kicked him out in 1911 after a  rule of 35 years.  Diaz remains one of the most important presidents in the history of Mexico, and he got his start on the original  Cinco de Mayo. Isn’t It Mexico’s Independence Day? Another common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexicos Independence Day. In actuality, Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain on September 16. It  is a very important holiday in the country and not to be confused with Cinco de Mayo. It was on September 16, 1810, that  Father Miguel Hidalgo took to his pulpit in the village church of the town of Dolores. He  invited his flock to take up arms and join him in overthrowing Spanish tyranny. This famous speech would be celebrated as the  Grito de Dolores, or The Cry of Dolores, from then on. How Big ofa Deal Is Cinco de Mayo? Cinco de Mayo is a big deal in Puebla, where the famous battle took place. However, it really isnt as important as most people think. Independence Day on September 16 has much more significance in Mexico. For some reason, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more in the United States- by Mexicans and Americans alike- than it is in Mexico. There is one theory for why this is true. At one time, Cinco de Mayo was widely celebrated in all of Mexico and by Mexicans living in former Mexican territories such as Texas and California. After a while, it was ignored in Mexico but the celebrations continued north of the border where people never got out of the habit of remembering the famous battle. Its interesting to note that the largest Cinco de Mayo party takes place in Los Angeles, California.  Every year, the people of Los Angeles celebrate â€Å"Festival de Fiesta Broadway† on May 5th (or on the closest Sunday). It’s a large, raucous party with parades, food, dancing, music, and more. Hundreds of thousands attend annually.  It’s even bigger than the festivities in Puebla. Cinco de Mayo Celebration In Puebla and in many U.S. cities with large Mexican populations, there are parades, dancing, and festivals. Traditional Mexican food is served or sold. Mariachi bands fill town squares and a lot of Dos Equis and Corona beers are served. It’s a fun holiday, really more about celebrating the Mexican way of life than about remembering a battle which happened over 150 years ago. It is sometimes referred to as a â€Å"Mexican St. Patrick’s Day.† In the U.S., schoolchildren do units on the holiday, decorate their classrooms, and try their hand at cooking some basic Mexican foods. All over the world, Mexican restaurants bring in Mariachi bands and offer specials for what’s almost certain to be a packed house.​ It’s easy to host a Cinco de Mayo party. Making basic Mexican food like salsa and burritos is not too complicated. Add some decorations and mix up a few margaritas and you’re good to go.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Addiction in Pregnancy to Prescription Drugs Essay

Addiction in Pregnancy to Prescription Drugs - Essay Example Another form of abuse is taking the medicine while still using alcohol and other narcotic drugs. Moreover, abuse of the drugs can be in the form of taking medicine without consent of a medical profession in order to relieve pain. Availability of the drugs makes it easy for most people to access them. This paper illustrates some of the common issues related to addiction of prescription drugs among pregnant women. Introduction Most pregnant women expose themselves into the dangers of abusing of prescription drugs. This abuse tends to cause many health risks to both the mother and the infant. After taking the prescription drugs for sometime without following the regulations ordered by the provider, most of the pregnant women find themselves becoming addicts. Through biological research work, there is enough evidence that everything a pregnant woman eats or drinks have the potential of reaching to the infant. Moreover, the substance ingested may have various effects, either positive or n egative on the infant. Any drug that a pregnant woman may take eventually crosses and reaches the infant. This gives a clear indication that addiction to prescription drugs harms the unborn baby. Provide a brief overview regarding the substance. Prescription drugs are of many kinds depending on their nature of use. Some of the commonly types include Opiods. Most of the drugs under Opiods are prescribed to treat various discomforts that come up because of pain (Schmid et al., 2010). Another common abused one includes the CNS depressants. These types of drugs are commonly prescribed to a patient with aim of reducing anxiety. Moreover, patients with sleeping disorders may take these drugs to improve their sleeping patterns. Examples of these drugs include mephobarbital and pentobarbital (Hanson, Venturelli & Fleckenstein, 2011). The use of all of the above prescription drugs and many more others not mentioned tends to be risky to the unborn child when taken against the instructions. Wh at is the nursing care considerations associated with the use of the substance during pregnancy? If a pregnant woman is taking prescription drugs, she should inform her health care provider. This helps the medical professional to offer necessary medication at the right time. A woman ought to provide her history on the drugs abuse and state the type of drugs she has been using while in pregnancy or before. This will assist the nurse in providing the best advice about how to stop the addiction and live healthily for her benefit and that of the unborn child. Moreover, nursing care considers universal screening of the drugs as the option to determine how they may have affected the woman and the infant in order to provide the recommended medication (Cazacu, et al., 2011). Another consideration that nurses tend to make is checking the level at which the prescribed drugs may have affected the infant. In some cases, it is not advisable for an addicted woman to stop taking the drugs immediat ely. Stopping the drugs at once may lead to a higher chance of causing death to the infant. Therefore, it is advisable for the women to seek medical advice from medical professionals in order for the situation to be addressed carefully. Another nursing care consideration entails that the woman should be ready to undergo various laboratory check-ups in order to determine the level of the effects on both the woman and the infant. What are the nursing care considerations specifically during the second trimester related to this substance? Exposure to prescription drugs

Friday, November 1, 2019

Management of change - Organisational Environment Essay

Management of change - Organisational Environment - Essay Example From that humble, but enterprising start ("With two routs and two planes, they carried 82 passengers in one year"), Michael O'Leary, its CEO, under whom it underwent an organisational change that took it to unbelievably dizzy heights with the following fantastic growth rate: "Not only are there different types of change, which manifest themselves in different organisations, change also appears differently at different levels of an organisation and in its various functions," Senior (2002, p. 57). Michael O'Leary adopted 'low fares, no frills' policy and in 10 years, Ryanair had carried 2.25 million passengers and was voted Best Managed National Airline by International Aviation Week Magazine. It launched its own website and sold tickets directly to passengers monopolising 95% of the total bookings. It can be conceptualised as Mintzberg's Entrepreneurial Organisational form. "..tends to be low in formalisation and standardisation, but high in centralisation with authority localised in a single person," Senior (p. 103). In 2004, it recorded its first loss of 3.3 million and O'Leary warned of a 'bloodbath' out of which only 2 or 3 airlines would emerge winners, assuming Ryanair would be the first one. Now with more countries in EU, Ryanair has cut its losses and looking upwards again, with EasyJet, Air Berlin, Germanwings, Translavia as its main competitors. It remains one of the most controversial companies, praised and criticised in equal measure for populism, challenging the 'establishment' within the airline industry, deceptive advertisements, trade union policies, and stubborn ways reflecting O'Leary personality. It is also accused of poor treatment to passengers, refusing to provide accommodation or meal vouchers when flights are cancelled, for poorly treating disabled passengers, ill treating its employees, flying into smaller airports away from the cities, for vicious attacks on opponents (Mary O'Rourke - Conflict of Organisations and Ryanair has to deal with many Governmental authorities as in Interdependence concept), offensive in-house advertising, and for its old second-hand airliners. It receives subsidies from European airports and EC believes that this is against EU competition laws. Whatever the criticisms are, Ryanair has proved to be a management and business marvel with its never-say-die grit. Its concept can be connected with Power Pricing: "Power pricing attempts the impossible, namely to increase profit and value simultaneously," www.wirtschaft.uni- kassel.de/marketing/downloads/Interview.pdf The European Management Journal, Vol.19, No.5, pp. 472-480, October 2001. Its strategic interaction flourishes on the perpetually alert Strategic Management, focussing on Price competition amongst low cost carriers. Ryanair is definitely not a prisoner of circumstances and has shown immense capability to rise above every hostile situation. It has to look for sometimes rude, to keep its expenses low and that could draw flak. Its main wealth is the remarkable leadership provided by O'Leary, based on Leadership qualities of Management, especially that of Directive leadership. "The