Monday, September 30, 2019

Changes in the Practice of Nursing Essay

The health care in the United States is changing, patients need and demand outstanding services delivery. So we as nurses are called up onto deliver this service. With the shift in the health care sector nurses will be even more in demand. This demand will be tied to skill levels and education. This is why it is so important for all nurses to commit to furthering their studies, it will make them more marketable. There will be many new job opportunities due to the restructure of the United States health care system.Providing health insurance to an additional 30 million people will likely make access to care a problem because of inadequate availability of primary care providers to meet the expected increase in demand. This is calling for innovative new ways on how to deliver health care in the United States. A few delivery systems are: -An accountable care organization (ACO) is a group of care providers who coordinate health care for a patients. This could include Doctors, Hospitals, Specialist and other health care providers. The idea is to keep health care cost down and avoid unnecessary test and procedures, but provide high quality care. (Gold, 2013) -Nurse Managed Health Clinics (NMHC) emphasize health promotion, education and disease prevention. It is a facility which is based in a community and staffed with advanced practice nurses as leaders. It provides primary healthcare services to the community. (Kovner & Walani, 2010) – Another module or philosophy of primary care is a medical home. It is a team-based facility, which is patient-centered, comprehensive, coordinated, accessible, and focuses on quality and safety. (â€Å"hrsa,† n.d.) All patients should receive the best coordinated care possible, especially the chronically ill, to get the right care at the right time is the purpose of these new modules. At the same time we should avoid unnecessary duplication of services and preventing medical errors – For example: The growth of chronic illness and aging populations, in particular, has placed a substantial burden on the healthcare system. Very popular is the patient-centered medical home model that emphasizes continuous coordinated  patient care. It has been shown to lower costs while improving health care outcomes. The patient-centered medical home is a way of organizing primary care that emphasizes care coordination and communication to transform primary care into â€Å"what patients want it to be.† Medical homes can lead to higher quality and lower costs, and can improve patient’s experience of care. Nurse Managed Health Clinics are led by advanced practice nurses to provide basic primary healthcare and screening. This could possibly be very cost effective if operated to their full potential. But let’s not forget that we also see and increasing demand of Nurse Practitioners (NP) in the hospital setting. We all know our two co-workers who went back to school and completed their NP program and now work in our Emergency Department as NP’s. Many hospitals also started using NP’s to take care of their in-patients. To keep up the demand of these facilities nurses with higher education are the future of the new health care system. Continuity of care is needed, it is the process by which the patient and the physician are cooperatively involved in ongoing health care management toward the goal of high quality, cost-effective medical care. Better quality care is given by higher educated nurses, so to stay marketable and to provide the best possible care to our patients it is in our interested to further our knowledge and our education. Nurse 1: The new health reform not only impact everyone as an individual, but it will also impact businesses as a whole. One of the main points of the new health care reform is to ensure that all Americans have insurance. With insurance not having been mandatory before, Americans who were uninsured had to deal with several financial problems when it came to paying medical bills. There are several individuals that do not have any medical insurance because they either do not have a job or the job that they do have does not offer insurance. And even some people who have the option to have insurance may not buy it because they don’t want to pay for it. And then these same people who have the option to have it but choose not, may end up using a government program to obtain medical services. This cost all tax payers more money for people who have the option to obtain insurance for them but choose to use a government facility. With this new reform it will be mandatory for every individual to obtain at least some sort of basic medical insurance for  themselves. Without insurance, people can sometimes not get the proper care that they deserve. And even though most hospitals do not turn away people without insurance, they do not cut them a break and still stick them with the high medical costs for the medical services that were administered. Americans who did not previously have insurance will now have obtained it. With the increase of insured Americans, the demand for health care providers will increase substantially. A huge percentile of practicing physicians and nurses are over the age of 50. Therefore the medical schools will need to recruit more students to become health care providers. Moreover, this will require additional professors as well as additional medical schools in order to handle the increase in enrollment. I am hoping that this can start our country down a better road with our health care situation. With the layout that has been provided, I can see that the idea is for everyone to benefit from this in one way or another. First, every American will benefit from having the insurance and being able to seek medical attention when needed. Insurance companies will benefit from claims. Doctors will benefit from receiving increased patients. Medical schools will benefit from having an increase of enrollment. Nurse 2: The changes to the nation’s health care system will affect nursing practice as we know it. We see change daily in our current practice. To prepare myself for the challenges and prospects that lie ahead, I am invested in advancing my education by being enrolled in an MSN program, I should complete this program by the end of this year. I do my best to step up to a more advanced leadership positions, currently fulfilling the role of a day shift supervisor in our Emergency Department. I try to stay current about the hospital and unit policies and procedures. I assist staff and physicians with changes, additions, and updates to our computer charting program system. My future plans for changes in my practice include earning certification in Emergency (CEN).I am trying right now to gain more understanding of the legislative process that helps shape health care policies. I needed to write a paper for school and found this subject fascinating. To meet society’s future healthcare needs, changes are necessary in the way nurses function and we need to improve and advance our education, so that we can development nursing management capabilities. To  help progress science, and be qualified to meet the needs of many types of patients, nurses need to be leaders, while providing excellent care. Collaboration among healthcare professionals is a requirement in an ever-changing and complex system. It is vital that nurses take ownership, step-up and be personally involved in helping transform health care and hospitals, into a safer place, which is accessible, fiscally responsible, and comprehensive in its care. Nurse 3: The rising cost of healthcare in today’s economy is in desperate need of a reform, we all know that. Because of this enormously cost many people are unable to receive medical care. People are sicker due to the inability to receive medical attention when it’s needed, so there wait and often the problem is getting much worse by the time there seek medical care. I am very worried about the increasing demand of nurses and the nursing shortage. If we do not address the nursing shortage very soon I see that in the future quantity will replace quality in nursing. Nurses will burn out and leave there position due to the increased demand and increased patient work load. Nurse to patient ratio is increasing, due to financial cuts from hospitals. Hospitals need to work more efficient to be able to keep their doors open. This is not very helpful to job satisfaction. We need to address these issues now. A few ideas would include for hospitals to pay for nursing school and have the student sign a contract to work for the hospital and every year worked 5000 dollars are forgiven in there loan. Also the demand is for everyone to continue with their education and obtain a BSN, MSN or doctorate, this cuts down on the quality of life in itself. Hospitals should give paid hours each week, to each nurse who is obtaining an advanced degree (like 4 hours a week). Summary I think each of my Co-Workers had a little different view on what is health reform meaning to them. In general each one had some kind of understanding about it and each nurse choose to share the point which is most dear to them about the reform. I agree mostly with all of them. The nursing shortage needs to be addressed and a larger more qualified nursing work force needs to be created. Nursing will have a huge impact on how we form the new health care system in the United States. Advanced practice in clinical settings  seems to be the most reasonable way of addressing the need of the public. Managed health care can be a solution to decrease the enormously cost of health care nowadays. References . Med-Surg Nursing, 23(1), 61-6. Retrieved from http://eds.a.ebscohost.com.library.gcu.edu:2048/eds/detail?vid=4&sid=d44f4649-8f31-43d2-bce8-b6a777bc1157%40sessionmgr4003&hid=4102&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWRzLWxpdmUmc2NvcGU9c2l0ZQ%3d%3d#db=ccm&AN=2012491341 Accountable Care Organizations . (2013). Retrieved from http://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Medicare-Fee-for-Service-Payment/ACO/ Gold, J. (2013). ACO is the hottest three-letter word in health care. Retrieved from http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/stories/2011/january/13/aco-accountable-care-organization-faq.aspx Kovner, C., & Walani, S. (2010, January). Nurse Managed Health Centers . nursing research network. Retrieved from http://thefutureofnursing.org/resource/detail/nurse-managed-health-centers-nmhcs M. Colette Carver,Anne T. Jessie. (2011, May). Patient-Centered Care in a Medical Home. The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 16(2). Retrieved from http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ANAMarketplace/ANAPeriodicals/OJIN/TableofContents/ Vol-16-2011/No2-May-2011/Patient-Centered-Care-in-a-Medical-Home.html Swan, B. A. (2011, Nov.-Dec.). Health Care Reform: Current Updates and Future Initiatives For Ambulatory Care Nursing. Nursing Economic, 29(6), 331-4. Retrieved from http://eds.a.ebscohost.com.library.gcu.edu:2048/eds/detail?vid=4&sid=d44f4649-8f31-43d2-bce8-b6a777bc1157%40sessionmgr4003&hid=4102&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWRzLWxpdmUmc2NvcGU9c2l0ZQ%3d%3d#db=ccm&AN=2011388254 What is a medical home? Why is it important? (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.hrsa.gov/healthit/toolbox/Childrenstoolbox/BuildingMedicalHome/whyimportant.html

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Grennell Farm

Introduction Grennell Farm is a corporation that is engaged in the production of wheat. Located in Iowa, the 2,000-acre farm was established by Jeremiah Grennell more than 20 years ago. The sudden demise of its founder has led the farm to be transferred to the leadership of, Mr. Grennell’s niece and chosen heir, Denise Grey. She was informed of her inheritance early in 2010. Ms. Grey works as an AVP in the consumer credit of a large New York bank. With the huge distance between Iowa and New York, she is carefully studying the advantages and disadvantages of retaining the farm’s ownership.This case presents the basic business financial flows of Grennell Farm for the year 2009 and the events that she had to deal with regarding the management of the business. QUESTION # 2 The price per acre for the land was used as the basis for recommending whether Denise Grey should sell the land. Based on the comparison, it is advisable to sell 100 acres of Grennell Farm because the pri ce per acre of $2250 is significantly higher than the original price ($187. 0) and the appraised price ($1050). QUESTION # 3 It would also help Denise Grey to evaluate the farm’s profitability and sustainability based on the following risks, liabilities and responsibilities, many of which are unknown based on the information given in the problem. Examples as follows: Tax liability Revenue gains may not be monetary Risk of loss due to bad debts Replacement of buildings and machinery Responsibility for the next season’s (2010) expenses

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Bank Supervision in Nepal Essay

Banks are the pillars of economy in real capitalistic market of a nation. They are prime sources of investment that play vital role in mobilizing resources to an optimum level in business world. The role of banking sector in economic growth and stability requires continuous and reliable service. In Nepal, Nepal Ratra Bank (NRB) is only an authorized body responsible for the monetary regulation and supervision of all banks and financial institutions licensed by it. It regulates price and balance of payments stability, manage liquidity, develop a sound payment system, and promote financial services and financial stability of the nation. The use of information technology (IT) by financial sector creates numerous challenges of managing and governing it in today’s context. Issues of tackling with changes in technology, migrating system from one to another, maintain adequate internal control system and managing other IT related risks are emerging in banking sector. Frauds through debit and credit cards, ATM, internet banking, mobile banking have increased the risk of financial loss along with other banking risks. Technology risk is not only concerned with operation risk of the bank, other banking risks like credit risk, reputation risk, compliance risk, market risk, strategic risk are also increased due to it. In this scenario, there must be a guideline to regulate sound and robust risk management technology that strengthens system security, reliability, availability and business continuity. Banks licensed by NRB should maintain the prescribed level of capital fund while opening branches only at prescribed locations. Every NRB reports submitted by bank should be transparent and must be properly reviewed and verified by NRB. Credit information bureau of every client must be recorded and submitted to the concerned authorities for any credit or loan functionalities. To defend illegal users from accessing banking system, it is essential to well educate customers to conduct banking operation securely. Similarly, it is also important to educate other stakeholders including its employees to create effective information security practice. Summarizing up, NRB being an apex body, it should seriously pursue various policies, strategies and actions to maintain the stability in price and consolidate the balance of payments for sustainable development of the economy of Nepal. The increasing complexity of IT in banks creates significant risk to which comprehensive risk management comprising of various standard internal control framework, bank’s own requirement and NRB requirement must be implemented. To ensure effectiveness of implemented control framework and adequacy of the adopted security plan and procedures, banks should conduct Information System (IS) audit annually. They should clearly provide information about the services, cost, security features, risk and benefits of electronic banking environment.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Diabetes Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Diabetes - Essay Example Type II diabetes, also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes is the most common form. Diabetes is an internal disease, which is caused due to the build up of glucose in the blood and insufficient glucose provided to the cells in the body. Living organisms need energy to survive and for this they intake food. The food that they eat goes through a lot of internal processes to be converted into energy. The hormone that plays the main role in this conversion is insulin, which is secreted by pancreas. It takes glucose from the blood and provides to all the body cells and this is how it is turned into energy. A person suffers from diabetes because his pancreas either fails to secrete sufficient amount of insulin or because the body does not utilize the already secreted hormone accordingly. He or she is seen to have high blood sugar levels or hyperglycemia. Causes of Type II Diabetes: Type II diabetes is mainly seen in people who have crossed 45 years. But with the modern lifestyle and the way the world works nowadays, even children and youngsters have started being affected by it. The percentage of youth suffering from diabetes is increasing steadily. To be safe from this disease, one needs to know the different factors that lead to it. Research has shown that â€Å"genetic susceptibility† (Causes of Diabetes para 9) and â€Å"environmental factors† (Causes of Diabetes para 12) such as obesity, lack of physical activity, metabolic syndrome, beta cell dysfunction etc, are the main reasons behind type II diabetes Often at times, genes play a very important role in placing a person under high risk or low risk of being prone to diabetes. This means that a person, whose parents and siblings suffered from this disease, stands a greater chance of falling prey to it. Inheriting such genes, especially â€Å"variants of the TCF7L2 gene† (Causes of Diabetes para 24) leads to restriction in the amount of insulin that is produced, wh ich causes the blood sugar levels to rise abnormally. Ethnicity also accounts as a factor and mostly â€Å"African Americans, Alaska Natives, American Indians etc† (Causes of Diabetes para 22) are seen to have diabetes. Certain genes also bring about the tendency in people to become obese. Obesity, mainly the one where the individual has excessive belly fat, along with absence of exercise cause a lot of cardio vascular problems and ultimately lead to diabetes. Metabolic syndrome is seen in people who have insulin resistance, due to which the cells of the body become unable to absorb the glucose present in the blood. Beta cell dysfunction causes substantial difference in the amount of insulin that is secreted. When glucose is produced in huge amounts, a condition called glucose toxicity occurs in which the beta cells are vitiated. Other factors include over secretion of glucose by liver, hindrances in communication among cells etc. Complications of Type II Diabetes: Type II di abetes is a very serious disease since one of the main hormones, insulin, which controls the blood sugar levels as well as the major activity of the body, that is converting glucose into energy, is tampered with. Diabetes itself is caused by factors that are quite harmful for the body, and when these factors along with diabetes together are present, the person suffering definitely runs the risk of being affected by other diseases. Type II diabetes is thus, associated to certain other diseases which prove to

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Examine the view that dividends are irrelevant to rational investors Assignment

Examine the view that dividends are irrelevant to rational investors when considering the value of shares from a theoretical and empirical perspective - Assignment Example Primarily, when firms make enormous profits, the managers can either decide to use it for expansion by investing in new projects or pay it to the shareholders in the form of dividends. The dividend policy usually guides this process. Dividend policy is the set of guidelines or principles that companies adopt to decide the amount of the profits that shareholders are to receive (Miller and Modigliani, 1961). Even though, the business uses these sets of principles to determine the value of the dividend the decision on whether to pay the dividends or not lies in the board’s decision. In fact, when the board of directors declares the dividends to be paid it becomes a debt to the corporation and cannot be recanted or rescinded quickly. Dividends can either be paid on temporary or permanent basis or sometimes it can be paid once or twice a year. Deangelo (1995) argues that, investors are usually interested not only in the stability of this payment but also the level of dividend payment. From this perspective, therefore, the managers should be aware of the impacts of unexpected changes in the dividend payment to the potential investors. Both the existing investors and potential investors are affected by the changes since such uncertainties could alienate them from investing with the organization. According to Bhattacharya (1979), unstable dividend payment aspect may negatively influence the perception of the investor based on the long term company’s performance in the financial markets. Even though, most economists believe that it is the value and stability of payment of dividends that the investors should rely on while making decisions; research ascertains that this is irrelevant and should warrants sidelining. Many from other schools of thought including Miller and Modigliani believe that what the company pays in the form of a dividend is totally

Education in South Korea Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Education in South Korea - Essay Example Yet, in this period, it has taken a back seat to short-term needs in investment priorities and has failed to receive support. Educational reform does not only entail designing a reform plan but also providing administrative/financial help and the government’s active interest and investment to support it. In an interview of two tutors fully involved in the Korean education system, it reveals many problems as well as some of the recommendations, which should be accorded to the Korean education system (OECD 2005, 38). Recommendations if implemented can achieve a perfect education system, which does not only give a burden to the parents but is also fair to the whole population. In terms of education, Korea leads in having best education parents spend. Korean parents want the best for their children and, therefore, spend a fortune just to ensure the children get the best. The wife to one of the tutors is not in the country with the children but is in the US where the children are r eceiving their education a sign that the Korean does not trust the education system of Korea themselves (Seth 2010, 195) Historically, both large and small Korean educational reforms have been already implemented. Korea is not alone in undertaking educational reform; many countries are reforming their educational systems. Educational reforms targeting the 2000s began in the early 1980s, and advanced countries tended to put a top priority on it. According to him, scientific writing and parents’ great zeal for children’s education gave the people the world’s lowest illiteracy rate and high mathematical ability, leading to the strongest competitive advantage in a labour-intensive industry,... This essay approves that the Korean educational system is now in crisis. Unfortunately, the government’s educational reforms offer no hope. Instead, students are alienated from their schools, while teachers lose their pride and happiness in teaching or are the target of reform from a low-ranking government employee. In addition, parents, who harbour great anxiety about their children’s happiness, are worried and confused, due to communications gaps and their own poor schooling. Worst of all, poor students and their parents, who should receive support from their country and society, are now being devastated by an increasingly unfair educational structure. This report makes a conclusion that education is a tool for improving society education is a process of forming a desirable human and making his or her personal, family, and social lives happy and valuable, as the individual pursues social development. All activities, organisations, and operations in education should be conducted to meet the purpose of education, or to establish an ideal human quality. Education makes a person more human-like and desirable to a society and a nation. Based on a democratic constitution designed to make people and society happy, while respecting the freedom, equality, and creativity of each person and helping them to exhibit their best competencies under equally given opportunities, education begins in most nations with free and mandatory elementary school. This is enforced through education laws, which preserve the education system and its operation.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Economics of multinational enterprise Term Paper

Economics of multinational enterprise - Term Paper Example If the terms of trade of a country are much closer to one country pre-trade price ratio the greater the gains than the other country hence such a country is likely to specialize in the production of such a commodity. Increase in production will employ a large labor force hence a rise in real income of the favored country’s citizens making them raise their consumption as a result (Beg & Manoj pg41-3). Perfect competition model produces products which are naturally homogenous and identical by definition having no brand name or trademarks hence consumers only choose on the basis of price. The industry has infinite number of firms hence the fewer the firms the larger is each firm. Firms can freely enter and exit the market since there are no legal or artificial barriers. All the participants in the market have perfect knowledge or complete information about the market hence farmers are aware of the demand and supply changes conditions. The firms are in return able to predict the future prices, demand and supply conditions. Such a market is not dwelt on much by economists as it is not realistic. In between PC and monopoly lies the oligopoly which means few sellers hence each firm is relatively large or giant in size. The degree of oligopoly is actually measured by the percentage of industry output. Products here are differentiated hence can be easily distinguished. Though they are open markets but they can at times be closed by some government regulation (Beg & Manoj pg 174-8). (a) Price elasticity demand is the extent to which demand can change with reference to the changes in prices, depending on the type of elasticity change in demand may be high or low. If changes in price do not affect demand negatively then demand may increase to an extent that multinationalization is realized. (b) Trade costs are additions to the overall costs of operations while market shares depend on the ability of firm to

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Ernst and Young LLP. The annual reports of AT&T and Verizon Essay

Ernst and Young LLP. The annual reports of AT&T and Verizon - Essay Example Coincidentally, both of the companies under consideration utilize the service of a single auditing firm Ernst and Young LLP. Ernst and Young LLP prides itself in being a "global leader in assurance, tax, transaction, and advisory services (Ernst and Young 2008)" having the overall aim of extending a "positive impact on businesses and markets, as well as on society as a whole" (Ernst and Young 2008). With this commitment for excellence, it currently employs a pool of 130,000 professionals with diverse background and specialties each contributing to the success of the business organization. As an auditing firm, it maintains high standard in its undertaking and promotes overall transparency in financial reporting (Ernst and Young 2008). With the growth of financial fiascos and controversies involving huge corporations like Enron, Ernst and Young upholds its integrity in the market through its dedication to high ethical standards in its operations (Ernst and Young 2008). The annual reports of AT&T and Verizon both comprise four important financial statements each highlighting different aspects which give users of these information a thorough knowledge on their financial standing.

Monday, September 23, 2019

Nihilism, Provisional Existence, Forfeiture of meaning Research Paper

Nihilism, Provisional Existence, Forfeiture of meaning - Research Paper Example The tribes of these stories are considered as nihilists, because they lack spiritual maturity and focus on the meaninglessness of life; they desire provisional existence, because they lack meaningful future goals and empathy for others; and they have forfeited spiritual meaning, since they have given up hope in changing their lives and enhancing their spiritual development. Tribalism affects nihilism by enforcing collective obedience to authority, thereby sacrificing their pursuit of spiritual maturity. The lottery is viewed as a joint ritual, where all people, young and old alike, participate in its processes and outcomes. People know how their prosperity is hinged on one human being's suffering every year, but they have looked away from their ritual's hideous process and result. Instead, they rationalize that the lottery is required for their existence, wealth, and continuity. Old Man Warner underscores that the lottery cannot be eliminated, like the other towns did, because  "there's always been a lottery† (Jackson). He desires for the continuity of traditions. He further focuses on the benefits of the lottery: â€Å"Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon† (Jackson). He fails to morally analyze this ritual that he has embraced, since he can participate in it. He stands for the moral stagnation of his tribe. In The Ones Who Walked Away from Omelas, people assert that their happiness and development are products of one â€Å"child's abominable misery† (LeGuin). Without this child's suffering, the â€Å"prosperity and beauty and delight† (LeGuin) of Omelas will no longer exist. As a whole, these tribes follow the laws and conventions that enable them to enjoy a â€Å"good† life. The main problem here is that through blind obedience to authority, they are sacrificing their spiritual growth. By denying to embrace suffering as a whole and transferring it to a single person, they fail to accept their suffering and find meaning in it. But these tribes no longer believe that there is value in collective suffering. Instead, they would rather accept a person's suffering to replace their own. Nihilism, moreover, does not reflect on outcomes and Frankl rejects this kind of life: â€Å"We must not despise our lives and treat our lives as if they were of no consequence at all† (Breakthrough Writing â€Å"Man's Search†). These tribes, nevertheless, reject the consequences of their actions as meaningful. They simply accept their rituals as it is, because â€Å"it is.† Tribalism, furthermore, develops nihilism, because these tribes no longer regard the meaning of life. Frankl believes in the value of being â€Å"worthy† of one's â€Å"sufferings,† for it provides â€Å"spiritual freedom† that makes life worth living for (72). The people in The Lottery does not see any meaning in life, as demonstrated in how they exist each day for rudimentary needs. The men focus on materialis tic affairs, while women are relegated to the domestic domain and follow gender-stereotyped roles: â€Å"...men began to gather, surveying their own children, speaking of planting and rain, tractors and taxes...women, wearing faded house dresses and sweaters...exchanged bits of gossip as they went to join their husbands† (Jackson). No one gives a second to reflect on the morality of their actions, because they are focused on their daily survival. Everyone treats this day as any ordinary day with a sense of â€Å"disenchantment of the world†

Sunday, September 22, 2019

American Writers Essay Example for Free

American Writers Essay ENG 4U1 – Film and Literature Comparative ISP Choose your ISP Topic below. For that topic, you must choose one corresponding film and one corresponding novel from the list below. You will then work towards completing a comparative analysis of the two chosen works. The steps of the ISP are as follows: U1A5 – Statement of Intent/ISP Proposal U2A6 – ISP Progress Report #1 (here you will review your ISP novel) U4A1 – ISP Annotated Bibliography U5A1 – ISP Progress Report #2 (here you will review your ISP film) U5A2 – ISP Thesis/Outline U5A4 – Final ISP Essay. ISP TOPICS FILM CHOICES NOVEL CHOICES Personal Liberation/Redemption Gran Torino Rocky Balboa Albert Camus, The Outsider Carol Shields, The Stone Diaries Ernest Gaines, A Lesson Before Dying Ian McEwan, Atonement Jane Urqhart, The Stone Carvers John Irving, A Prayer For Owen Meany Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner Margaret Atwood, Surfacing Margaret Laurence, The Stone Angel Miriam Toews, A Complicated Kindness Oscar Wilde, A Picture of Dorian Gray Roberston Davis, Fifth Business Walter Lamb, She’s Come Undone Destructive Nature of Dreams American Gangster. There Will Be Blood Brian Moore, The Passion of Judith Hearne F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby John Steinbeck, The Pearl John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men Mordechai Richler, The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz Toni Morrison, The Bluest Eye Utopia/Direction of the Future Children of Men The Road Aldous Huxley, Brave New World Anthony Burgess, A Clockwork Orange Cormac McCarthy, The Road George Orwell, 1984 Margaret Atwood, Oryx and Crake Margaret Atwood, A Handmaid’s Tale Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451 Journey Motif Rain Man Motorcycle Diaries  A. Manette Ansay, Vingear Hill Arundhati Roy, The God of Small Things Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Cormac McCarthy, The Road John Steinbeck, The Pearl Khaled Hosseini A Thousand Splendid Suns Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner Kim Edwards, The Memory Keeper’s Daughter Marina Nemat, The Prisoner of Tehran Paolo Coehlo, The Alchemist Salman Rushdie, Satanic Verses Sue Monk Kidd, The Secret Life of Bees William Faulkner, As I Lay Dying Destructive Nature of War Avatar The Hurt Locker Anne Michaels, Fugitive Pieces Denis Brock, The Ash Garden. Elie Wiesel, Night Ian McEwan, Atonement Joseph Boyden, Three Day Road Joseph Keller, Catch-22 Joy Kogawa, Obasan Laura Esquivel, Like Water For Chocolate Markus Zusak, The Book Thief Pat Barker, The Ghost Road Timothy Findley, The Wars Non-Conformist Hero Juno Iron Man Anthony Burgess, A Clockwork Orange J. D, Salinger, The Catcher in The Rye John Irving, A Prayer For Owen Meany Joyce Carol Oates, Foxfire Ken Kesey, One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest Kim Edwards, The Memory Keeper’s Daughter Mark Haddon, The Curious Incident of the Dog in  the Nighttime Miriam Toews, A Complicated Kindness Roddy Doyle. A Star Called Henry Sue Monk Kidd, The Secret Life of Bees Immigrant Experience Lost in Translation In America Anne Michaels, Fugitive Pieces Barbara Kingsolver, The Poisonwood Bible Brian Moore, The Luck of Ginger Coffey Frank McCourt, Angela’s Ashes Jane Urquhart, The Stone Carvers Joy Kowaga, Obasan Margaret Laurence, The Diviners Michael Ondaatje, In the Skin of a Lion Mistry Rohinton, A Fine Balance Nino Ricci, Lives of the Saints Role of Women Revolutionary Road An Education. Alice Walker, The Colour Purple Anita Diamant, The Red Tent Anne Marie MacDonald, Fall On Your Knees Arthur Golden, Memoirs of a Geisha Barbara Kingsolver, The Poisonwood Bible Bernhard Schlink, The Reader Frank McCourt, Angela’s Ashes Khaled Hosseini A Thousand Splendid Suns Kim Edwards, The Memory Keeper’s Daughter Margaret Atwood, The Edible Woman Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid’s Tale Miriam Toews, A Complicated Kindness Sue Monk Kidd, The Secret Life of Bees Tennessee Williams, A Streetcar Named Desire Toni Morrison, The Bluest Eye Wally Lamb, She’s Come Undone.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

AirAsia

AirAsia Abstract AirAsia was the first successful low cost airline in the Southeast Asian region. This case study discusses the factors that contributed to AirAsias success. It studies the influence of culture and leadership at AirAsia, the factors contributing to its operational efficiency and the strategic orientation of the airline. It also discusses the threats to the long-term success of the airline with reference to increasing competition in the region and the need to overcome certain service shortcomings. The case concludes with an assessment of AirAsias future plans. To study the growth of the pioneer of low cost airlines in the Southeast Asian region To analyze the reasons for the success of a low cost airline in Southeast Asia, a region where analysts felt there was no market for low cost services To understand the operational model followed by the airline and how it contributed to its success To examine the relationship between leadership and culture and the need for a strong and dynamic leader in a startup organization To understand the threats to the airlines long-term success and how these may be overcome To analyze the growing low cost trend in the Southeast Asian region and the market potential for the same AirAsia was not the first budget carrier in Asia (although it was the first in the Southeast Asian region). The low cost trend actually started in Asia in the 1990s, when two budget airlines Air Do and Skymark Airlines were launched in Japan. However, neither of the airlines succeeded as their operational model was weak and they were soon out discounted by Japans major airlines Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways and Japan Air System. Another budget airline, Cebu Pacific Air, operated flights between Hong Kong and Seoul to the Cebu Islands in the Philippines, but its operations were limited. Otherwise, it was the national flag carriers that dominated the region According to analysts, AirAsias main appeal was its low fares. By offering fares that were a fraction of what major airlines charged, AirAsia created a new market in the Southeast Asian region. People who could otherwise not have afforded air travel began to fly AirAsia Analysts generally agreed that AirAsias success had significantly changed the dynamics of the Southeast Asian aviation industry. However, they said it would be premature to call the airline an unqualified success. AirAsia was set up in 2001, which was a bad time for the global aviation industry. Despite this, it managed to develop a successful business model. However, the airline industry had witnessed a number of cases where airlines started off well but later experienced a downturn In early 2005, AirAsia Sdn Berhad (AirAsia) announced that it would give away 10,000 free seats on its flights to select Southeast Asian destinations.The airline said that was its way of celebrating the completion of three years of successful flying and of saying thank you to the people for their support. AirAsias accomplishments and success today is a reflection of the publics trust and faith in the company,said Tony Fernandes (Fernandes), CEO of AirAsia. The airline also wanted to thank the public for making its late-2004 shares issue a huge success. One of the most successful airlines in the Southeast Asian region and the pioneer of low cost, no frills travel in Malaysia, AirAsia was often in the news for its low fares and fast growing operations Until AirAsia proved them wrong, airline analysts believed that budget carriers would not find a market in Asia. They said the Asian airline industry was different from the industries of the US and Europe airline passengers in Asia looke d on air travel as a luxury, and expected to be pampered by the airlines. For this reason, no-frills travel would not appeal to them. In addition, Asian countries had a great amount of red tapism, which made it difficult to start any new venture, not least of all, an airline. Major national airlines in most of the countries also enjoyed government backing and were too powerful to allow competition to flourish. Therefore, when AirAsia was set up in 2001, it was greeted by a large amount of skepticism. The airline industry was not a good place to be in at that time, reeling as it was from the combined effects of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and economic downturn. However, within three years of operation, AirAsia changed the dynamics of the Asian airline industry. It not only managed to compete with major carriers like Malaysian Airlines (MAS) and Singapore International Airlines (SIA), but it also became the benchmark for several other low-cost airlines in that market. So great was AirAsias impact that analysts said the airline, with its minimal fares, was living up to its tag line which said Now Everyone can Fly. Against All Odds In 2001, Dato Sri Tony Fernandes Fernandes started his career as a music industry executive, working at Virgin Records and Time Warner Music It was his childhood dream to run an airline, but he did not consider the idea seriously until he saw easyJet, a London-based low cost airline, on television. Fernandes was impressed with what he saw of easyJet and decided that he wanted to explore its operations further. He spent two days at easyJets headquarters in Luton airport, talking to staff and passengers and learning how the airline was run. Fernandes had always believed that a low cost airline would be successful in the Southeast Asian region, and his experience at easyJet convinced him of the potential of his idea. He resigned from his job at Time Warner Music and returned home to Malaysia . Fernandes had no prior experience in running an airline, nor did he have enough money to start one. He raised money by mortgaging his house and using up his savings. He also roped in three of his associates Datuk Pahamin A. Rajab, Abdul Aziz Abu Bakar and Kamarudin Meranun who believed in his vision for a low cost operator in Malaysia. Getting an airline license was not easy in Malaysia. The partners set up a meeting with the Malaysi an Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamed (Mahathir), and presented to him the major features of their business model along with Dato Pahamin Ab. Rajab (Former Chairman, AirAsia), Dato Kamarudin bin Meranun (Deputy Group Chief Executive Offi cer, AirAsia) and Dato Abdul Aziz bin Abu Bakar (Current Chairman, AirAsia) formed a partnership to set up Tune Air Sdn Bhd and bought AirAsia for a token sum of RM1.00. With the help of Conor Mc Carthy (Director, AirAsia; former Director of Tune Air Sdn Bhd and former Director of Group Operations, Ryanair), AirAsia was remodeled into a low cost carrier and by January 2002, their vision to make air travel more aff ordable for Malaysians took fl ight. Valued at RM2.3 billion, AirAsia is today an award winning and the largest low cost carrier in Asia. From a two aircraft operation of Boeing 737-300, AirAsia currently boasts a fl eet of 78 aircraft that fl ies to over 60 domestic and international destinations and operates over 500 domestic and international fl ights daily from six hubs located at Low Cost Carrier Terminal (KLIA), Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Bangkok (Thailand), Jakarta (Indonesia) and Bali (Indonesia). AirAsia is fast spreading its wings to create a bigger and more extensive route network through its associate companies, Thai AirAsia and Indonesia AirAsia. The airline has carried, thus far, over 61 million guests since its fi rst day of operation. At AirAsia, we are bringing people closer by bridging boundaries through our philosophy of off ering low fares. It has sparked a revolution in travel, as more and more people from all walks of life are now able to fl y for the first time, while many others have made air travel with AirAsia their preferred choice of transport. We are consistently adding new routes, which include city pairs that never existed before, in our relentless eff orts to create a seamless bridge of unity across Asia. It is something very close to our hearts as we continuously strive to promote air travel and create excitement amongst our guests with our range of innovative products and personalised services. Corporate Vision, Mission and Values Vision-To be the largest low cost airline in Asia and serving the 3 billion people who are currently underserved with poor connectivity and high fares. Mission To be the best company to work for whereby employees are treated as part of a big family Create a globally recognized ASEAN brand To attain the lowest cost so that everyone can fl y with AirAsia Maintain the highest quality product, embracing technology to reduce cost and enhance service level Values Safety Adopting a zero tolerance to unsafe practices and strive for zero accidents through proper training, work practices, risk management and adherence to safety regulations at all times. Valuing Our People Committing to our peoples development and well-being and treating them with respect, dignity and fairness. Customer Focused We care and treat everyone in the same manner that we want to be treated. Integrity Practicing highest standards of ethical behaviour and demonstrate honesty in all our lines of work in order to command trust and mutual respect. Excellence in Performance Setting goals beyond the best and reinforcing high quality performance standards and achieving excellence through implementing best practices. Commitment To Excellence AirAsia is committed to excellence. We intend to excel in everything we do by achieving exceptional results. We have set high standards, but no higher than our customers expectations. Day after day, our people do their best so that we meet these expectations. In all our eff orts, there are five fundamental values: Safety, Passion, Integrity, Caring and Fun. They provide a frame of reference for the AirAsia experience and a corporate culture in which we live and deliver peak performance. The business models AirAsias success has taken flight through the continued confi dence of our guests who prefer a no-frills, hasslefree, low fare and convenient option in air travel. The key to delivering low fares is to consistently keep cost low. Attaining low cost requires high effi ciency in every part of the business and maintaining simplicity. Therefore every system process must incorporate best industry practices. We make this possible through the implementation of the following key strategies: Safety First Safety is the single most important criteria in every aspect of the operations, an area that AirAsia will never compromise on. AirAsia complies with the conditions set by regulators in all the countries where the airline operates. In addition, AirAsia partners with the worlds most renowned maintenance providers to ensure that its fleet is always in the best condition. AirAsia has committed itself to a program of reducing risks and hazards normally associated with our industry through a Safety Management System. This commitment is extended to ensure the full integration of a safety culture, safety policy and safety objectives in a proactive approach to aviation safety. In short, our Safety Management System is not just an add-on but a core part of our business process. It is the way we do business. The critical safety functions of senior management are in the areas of strategy and leadership. Senior management will provide a vision for safety management and provide adequate resources to achieve this level of safety High Aircraft Utilisation AirAsias high frequency flights have made it more convenient for guests to travel as the airline implements a quick turnaround of 25 minutes, which is the fastest in the region. This has resulted in high aircraft utilisation, lower costs and greater airline and staff productivity. Efficient Fleet, AirAsia continues to invest in new aircraft. As of the end of 2008, the Group received a total of 56 Airbus A320 aircraft and the deployment is as follows. Malaysian operations has received 46 and is now a fully Airbus A320 aircraft feet. Thailand operations has received six and Indonesian operation, four. Our fl eet is among the youngest in Asia and we will get even younger as we take delivery of 14 Airbus A320 aircraft and retire nine older Boeing 737-300 Classics aircraft in 2009. These Airbus A320 are ultra modern, more fuel effi cient and environmentally friendly aircraft with unparalleled levels of passenger comfort, serviceability and reliability. We have received positive feedback that our passengers love this aircraft. These aircraft have reduced operational cost signifi cantly and helped to deliver strong profi ts. Low Fare, No Frills AirAsia targets guests who are prepared to do away with frills such as meals, frequent flyer miles or airport lounges in exchange for fares lower than those currently off ered without comprising on quality and service. Guests have the choice of buying exclusively prepared meals, snacks and drinks from our in-fl ight service at an aff ordable price. While onboard AirAsia the best thing to do, of course, is to eat and drink. We will help you do that by off ering a vast selection of food and drinks without punching a hole in your wallet. And our fun and friendly crew will ensure the merriment part of your travel experience. Streamline Operations Making the process as simple as possible is the key to AirAsias success. We are working towards a single aircraft fl eet; this greatly reduces duplicating manpower requirements as well as stocking of maintenance parts. There is only one class seating, i.e. fi rst class, and passengers are free to sit where they choose. Lean Distribution System AirAsia off ers a wide and innovative range of distribution channels to make booking and traveling easier for its guests. AirAsias ticketless service provides a low cost alternative to issuing printed tickets. Simple Distribution System Simple is good, simple is what we want and simple is what we all need. Bearing this in mind, we have worked very hard through countless hours of research and development to ensure that our distribution system is, simple. It is ironic that so much work is required to be simple but bear in mind that simple is a relative word when you are catering to the needs of millions of people across the world. We have developed a comprehensive, yet simple distribution system. One that is capable of handling the most technologically savvy customer to the most technologically deprived. Our website www.airasia.com is available in seven languages and our call centre is conversant in the major spoken Asian languages. For those always on the go, you can book a fl ight using your mobile phone at www.mobile.airasia.com We have recently upgraded our self check-in machines with a simpler and more powerful version. The transaction takes not more than two minutes to complete. This new machine also has an advanced security feature which eff ectively cuts the risk of fraud. We have also expanded our web check-in facility to all stations and destinations. You can now use the web check-in facility even if you have baggage (previously web check-in was only for passengers without baggage). Simply stroll over to the baggage drop off counter every station has one and then proceed to the departure hall for your fl ight. If you have not tried any of these convenient services, I recommend you do so the next time you fl y with AirAsia. Not only will it save you valuable time and eliminate the stress of queuing up, it will also reward AirAsia in the form of lower cost and thus lower my stress. Its amutually healthy proposition! Point to point network The LCC model shuns the hub-andspoke system and adopts the simple pointto-point network. All AirAsia fl ights are shorthaul (four hour fl ight or less). The underlying business is to get a person from point A to B. On Time Performance, Nothing irks airline passengers more than a delay. Often, these delays are caused by factors beyond our control when Mother Nature throws a fi t, for instance but we can try to mitigate these occurrences by ensuring that we take actions within our control to do so. One of the benefi ts of a young fl eet is reliability. AirAsas On Time Performance (OTP) has improved by nine percentage points since the fi rst Airbus A320 aircraft was inducted into our fl eet. The graph below indicates OTP will rise with more Airbus A320 aircraft in the fl eet. We will back test this conclusion and aim for 92% OTP in 2009. If we succeed, it will make us the most punctual airline in the world. In line with our confi dence in achieving this goal, we have launched a revolutionary campaign called On Time Guarantee (OTG). In a snapshot, this campaign compensates a passenger inconvenienced by a substantial delay due to our fault at no additional cost. We believe this pioneering and unique campaign will help to boost the retention rate and raise our brand equity. AirAsia Today AirAsia flies over 100 routes across 12 countries in Asia. The fast-growing airline has become Asias eigth-largest airline in six years, and is now the largest low-cost carrier in Asia, with the lowest cost base of any airline in the world. According to AirAsia, the key to delivering low fares is to consistently keep costs low which requires high efficiency in every part of the business, with every system process incorporating best industry practices. How they do it Ultimately, it is our guests who have made us what we are today. A passion for exceeding our guests expectations is what spurs us to relentlessly pursue innovative ways to enhance the service we provide. Constant innovation is the tool we use to expand our guests freedom to travel so that Now Everyone Can Fly. In 2008, a total commitment to innovation enabled us to stay ahead of the game and once again win an array of prestigious awards. In the years to come, the same commitment will see us successfully navigate the ongoing global economic turbulence, broaden our horizons and not only survive but prosper. In 2009 we will unroll a series of initiatives designed to boost customer service while keeping fares down. So it is apt that this years Annual Report focuses on innovations which will enable AirAsia Berhad (AirAsia) to retain its pole position as the worlds preferred low fare airline. Above all, it is appropriate for us to acknowledge the support our guests give us by making Thanks to YOU the key message of this report. The Asia-Pacific aviation industry is enjoying strong passenger demand. According to the International Civil Aviation Association, passenger numbers in the region grew more than 12 percent in 2007, supported by rising economies, increasing business travel, and growing disposable incomes. Making Innovations Just for You Why is AirAsia performing so well? The answer couldnt be any simpler: AirAsia grows because it saves money for people. Nobody wants to part with their money whenever possible, but I am certain that almost everyone likes to travel. So, sensibly, people look for the lowest cost option with fi rst class service. Providing fi rst class service is imperative for any service oriented company, customers simply wont have it any other way. We realise this importance and have consistently upgraded our service level, and succeeded in doing so without any compromise to effi ciency and cost. I will explain in the following pages our initiatives present and future to enhance customer service delivery. Some are innovative ideas inspired by the talented people of AirAsia and some are simple but functional moves that came from other sources. Expanding the Route Network In 2008, we achieved many milestones. The one closest to my heart is our entry into Singapore. For too long, passengers on the Malaysia to Singapore route were burdened with high fares extracted by the monopolistic nature of the route operators. This is no longer the case AirAsia introduced unheard-of low fares on a route that has proven to be high-yielding and is expected to deliver sustained profi ts. We have six destinations linking to Singapore at the end of 2008 and this number will double by the end of 2009. For years, we have gazed upon India and waited for an opportunity. That day fi nally came and our maiden route, Kuala Lumpur to Tiruchirappalli, has been a resounding success. There is plenty more to come, we currently have on our radar screen to commence services to Coimbatore, Kochi and Kolkata. India presents a fantastic opportunity for AirAsia and I envisage it as one of our biggest markets in years to come.of growth with 39% more passengers carried than the year before. This signifi cantly outpaced the domestic Malaysia passenger numbers that grew by 13%. While we continue to see and capitalise on opportunities in Malaysia, we expect the higher rate of growth in international sectors to continue. With the launch of AirAsia X, AirAsias route network has evolved from being Asia-centric to include Australia and Europe. The impact of this connectivity for instance, connecting Australia and London by providing an alternative, aff ordable version of the so-called Kangaroo Route is being felt not just by AirAsia but by Malaysia. Our route connectivity and the frequency of our fl ights is now turning Kuala Lumpur into the premier regional hub for low-cost travel. Our services in boosting tourism in Malaysia are helping to alleviate some of the pain infl icted by the global economic downturn. Our investments in these new routes and in boosting the Malaysian economy demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the nation and its people. The Chanllenge Implement low cost promotions with high efficiency and best industry practices Create and implement print and web campaigns on a very tight delivery schedule Integrate and implement internationally across multiple languages and media Benefits Accelerated creation to delivery model High quality implementation at a low cost 50 percent increased productivity in creative turnaround and output Industry Overview and Challenges The Asia-Pacifi c aviation industry is facing one of the most challenging period since the 1997 Asian financial crisis. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), passenger numbers in the Asia Pacifi c region shrunk by 1.5% in 2008 and is expected to contract by a further 0.6% in 2009. Financial loss projections paint an even more dismal scenario Asia-Pacifi c airlines posted a US$500 million loss in 2008, with the loss forecast to balloon up to US$1.5 billion in 2009. The competitive environment has gone awry amid confusion. Many airlines have terminated underperforming services, deferred scheduled aircraft deliveries and frozen excess capacity in an attempt to reduce their cost base. Legacy carriers are also slashing fares on main routes, often putting themselves in direct competition with low-cost airlines such as AirAsia. I am confi dent, however, that we will more than hold our own. AirAsia is not just about low fares. Our route connectivity, the frequency of our fl ights, Industry leading punctuality, the 5-Star quality of our service and our determination to excel in everything we do provides our customers and guests unparalleled value We welcome fair competition conducted on a level playing fi eld because we are confi dent we can triumph over all comers. In fact, we are noticing an upsurge of interest in fl ying AirAsia by the corporate sector as it seeks to cut travel costs for its executives by switching to us instead of using legacy carriers. This is just one example of how the current economic downturn has benefi ted us and we have good reason to believe there are many more. Our market share will likely grow in 2009, partly because much of the rest of the industry is in acute distress. Going forward The critical qualities needed to navigate through the current economic turbulence are a focus on innovation, maintaining tight discipline in line with the low-cost model, creative marketing and an unwavering self belief. As many of you are aware, I am an incorrigible optimist. I look for silver lining in any situation and I am confi dent that the economy will rebound. I am also a person who fi rmly believes in lighting a candle rather than cursing the darkness. Which is why we made the painful decisions we made and have put in place strategies that will see us through this uncertain period and continue to deliver long-term value to our customers, shareholders and all our other stakeholders. Unit cost is expected to reduce substantially stemming from our decision to purchase fuel on the spot market, the benefi ts of a younger fl eet and economies of scale. The current price of fuel is substantially lower than the US$128 per barrel that we paid in 2008. The benefi t of the lower fuel p rice goes straight to the bottom line. With these gains in hand, 2009 will be a strong year for the Group. Its been an extremely eventful and exciting year. The Board of Directors and I are pleased and proud to be leading our talented and committed employees as we begin this new chapter in the history of AirAsia. We have every confi dence that the future will be both successful and full of opportunities.

Friday, September 20, 2019

History of the Roman Baths

History of the Roman Baths Hala Ahmed Albinali Ms. Jessica Lund The Roman Baths The Roman baths are immense and outstanding complex structures designed for bathing, relaxing, and socializing. The Romans believed the baths were essential to the Roman civilization and that they were an example of their superiority and power. The Roman baths were an important part of daily life in ancient Rome’s architectural and social role, since it fulfilled Romans’ concerns about health and cleanliness, as well as allowed all social classes to mix freely, relax, communicate, and bathe while being drivers of the evolution of architecture. The Roman baths were centers of leisure, socialization, business, and gossip. They were originally built as a somewhat private gym in the households of wealthy Romans. The baths also existed in early Egyptian palaces. The Romans took the idea of a hipbath from the Greeks and expanded it into a high degree of sophistication. The baths were usually located near the forum, which is a marketplace or Public Square of an ancient Roman city, the center of legal and business affairs and a place of assembly for the people. At an excavation site in Pompeii, where the first and earliest entry fee box was discovered, that the cost of entry at the Roman baths was simple one â€Å"quadrans† − the smallest coin currency in Rome, thus the Roman baths became a daily regime for people of all classes. On holidays, the entrance fee was free, and during Diocletian’s reign the fee cost two denarii, which was more expensive than usual. The wealthy Romans had balnae in their villas, whic h were smaller, private bathhouses. The Roman baths, which are called thermae, were immensely large bathhouses built for a state and it typically took several blocks. Mixed bathing was unacceptable by most citizens, so there were times for both men and women at the Roman baths. Roman men would work around the afternoon and finish by 2PM or 3PM. At 2PM, the baths were open for mainly men to sport, bathe, and communicate until the baths close. On the other hand, Women had less time, they went in the morning while the men were at work to bathe, gossip, exercise if they were athletes, and meet friends until 2PM. Republican bathhouses had separate bathing facilities for men and women instead of having times for both men and women. As the Roman baths’ popularity grew, men began to use the baths daily, even the Emperor Commodus− who ruled from 180 BC to 192 BC as well as ruling as co-emperor with his father, Marcus Aurelius, from 177 BC− liked bathing so much he says he visited as much as eight times a day. From the beginning of 2nd Century BC, the Roman Baths grew in popularity and size since each Emperor tried to outshine the last Emperor by building more improved bathhouses for the citizens of Rome. By 5th Century AD, the Roman baths became a fundamental part of ancient Roman culture and could be found all over the Roman Empire − there were over nine hundred in Rome alone. Some amazing examples of the Roman baths are the baths of Caracalla, which covered more than thirty-two acres and could hold sixteen hundred bathers at once. It is among the most magnificent bathhouses of the entire Imperial era, but Diocletian’s baths outdid that since they have held up to three thousand people. Some Roman bathhouses were built on natural hot springs, which were known for their healing properties. According to writings and the ritual offerings found in excavations that the water, usually as hot as forty-six degrees Centigrade, that the healing was thought to be the work of the gods. Some ancient Roman bathhouses had temples built either on the site or very close to it, thus they became sacred places. For example, Sulis was the Celtic goddess of the spring, and when the Romans arrived, they worshipped her too. They recognized her with their own goddess of healing, Minerva. On the hot spring, the baths were built, and next to it, a temple to Sulis-Minerva in a walled enclosure. There were no services in the temple, but priests sacrificed animals, and after that, people went in for private prayers. They prayed standing in front of the statue with their hands out, palms up, and when they finished they kissed the statue’s feet. Most ancient Roman baths were places of enter tainment rather than worship. The bathhouses were built to provide a regular ritual that Romans repeated every time they visited the Roman baths. When entering the baths, they would first go to the dressing room, or apodyterium, where there werecabinets to store their clothes and shoes which were guarded by slaves for a fee. The slave(s) would also escort the bathers while carrying the bather’s gear. Sometimes the dressing room had multiple purposes, for example, in the Stabian Baths in Pompeii, thewomens dressing roomwas also a frigidarium, a room with a small cold-water pool. There is no clear evidence that shows what the Romans wore when bathing, but they may also have worn some light covering in the baths. Within the baths, they may have worn special sandals with thick soles to protect their feet from the heated floors. In the baths, there was a large central courtyard, whichwas the exercise ground, or palaestra. A shadyporticothat led into the bathing rooms surrounded it. The palaestra has a natationà ¢Ë†â€™a large outdoor pool such asone in the Stabian Baths. Since the Romans had no soap, they would use oil instead. After changing clothes and oiling their bodies, male bathers would usually begin their routine with exercise, by doing exercises such as wrestling, mild weight lifting, numerous types ofball playing, running, and swimming. After exercise, the bathers would have the dirt and oil scraped from their bodies with a curved metal tool called astrigil. A slave carried their towels,oil flasks,and strigils, while the bathers would start bathing through rooms of various temperatures. They may start in the warm room or tepidarium, which had heated walls and floors, but sometimes no pool, and then proceed to the hot bath, or caldarium, which wasclosest to the furnace. The caldarium had a large or small pool with very hot water and awaist-high fountainor labrum with cool water to splash on their face and neck. After this, the bather could spend some time in thetepidariumagain befo re finishing in thecold roomor frigidarium, a room with acold pool. They would sometimes repeat the same progression of rooms but backwards. Other rooms provided moist steam such as sudataria, dry heat like a sauna or laconicum, as well as massages with perfumed oils. After their baths, they could stroll in the other places the Roman baths offered. The bathers could watch performances of jugglers or acrobats, stroll in the gardens, visit the library, buy a snack from food vendors, or listen to a literary recital. The baths seem to be a quiet, leisurely place, but the baths were noisy, as one philosopher−Seneca−complained when he lived near a bathhouse in Rome: The sturdy man does his exercise with lead weights. When he is straining hard (or pretending to) I can hear him grunt; when he breathes out I hear him panting and his hoarse gasps. Or I might hear the blows of the massagers hands slapping his shoulders. To all this, add the man who dives in with a lot of noise and splashing. And if a ball player comes along and begins to count his score out loud, I am definitely finished. The baths were made to be very attractive and striking places. Although most of the decorations have not survived, many writers commented on the luxury of the bathhouses, describing them with words such as, â€Å"well-lighted, lovely mosaics, airy rooms with high vaulted ceilings, silver faucets and fittings, and paintings and colored marble panels.† There was also a large entrance or meeting area, where people could walk, talk, or sit on seats around two large fountains. Roman engineers invented a system of heating the baths called thehypocaust. Pillars and spaces were left inside the walls so that hot air from the furnace, or praefurnium, could circulate and flow through the space in the walls. Rooms that required the most heat were placed closest to the furnace and the heat could be increased by adding more wood to the furnace. Many heated rooms and pools were positioned to make the most of the heat of the sun. At the Baths of Caracalla, the hot room was an enormous hall th at was one hundred and fifteen feet wide with a pool three feet deep.In order to heat it, approximately fifty large furnaces were needed as well as millions of fireproof terracotta bricks or special bricks called tegulae mammatae. Bathhouses also had largepublic latrines, usually with marble seats over channels whose continuous flow of water that established the first â€Å"flush toilets.† These toilets were a vital part of the plumbing system as well as another common area in which to sit and talk. There was a continuous water flow underneath the seats. A shallowwater channelin front of the seats providedsponges attached to sticksfor people to wipe themselves. The Roman baths were among the most splendid and luxurious of all the outstanding works, and it allowed all, no matter what their social role was, to enjoy the magnificent baths. With their exquisite furnishings, high vaulted ceilings, paintings, brightly colored mosaics, marble panels, and silver faucets and fittings. As well as its organization and planning. The Roman baths were an important part of Rome’s superiority, social role, and advancements in architecture and more. Ancient Roman Baths: Ancient Roman Architecture in Action.Web. 18 February 2015. Camelot International: Britains Heritage and History.† Web. 18 Feb. 2015. James. Roman Baths: Facts and Information.† 25 Mar. 2013. Web. 18 Feb. 2016. McManus, Barbara F. Roman Baths.† June 2011. Web. 16 Feb. 2015. Cartwright, Mark. Roman Baths.† 2 May 2013. Web. 17 Feb. 2015. McGuire, Lela. Baths in Ancient Rome.† Web. 18 February 2015 ROMAN BATHS.† Web. 18 Feb. 2015. Carr, Karen. Roman Baths.†. 10 Feb. 2015. Web. 18 Feb. 2015. Baths. PBS. Web. 18 Feb. 2015. The Romans The Bath House.† 8 Mar. 2014. Web. 18 Feb. 2015. Roman Baths.† Web. 18 Feb. 2015. The Scribe. Ancient History Blog.† 14 Jan. 2011. Web. 18 Feb. 2015.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Capital vs. Labor Essay -- Economy, Stock Market

Chapter 19 of Liberty, Equality, and Power, asks what the most significant ways in which the ongoing struggle between capital and labor reshaped American society during the late 19th century (Murrin, 523). In response, one of the most important contributions was the introduction of new technologies utilized primarily in factories. This in turn lead to the revolutionizing of production lines, and corporations. This domino effect continued on to spur the birth of unions in the United States, who organized rebellions against corporate power still used today. Finally during this time women underwent a transformation of their civil rights, as well as their role in society. The introduction of new technologies was a double-edged sword in forming society. On one note, inventions like the phonograph, or the electric dynamo brought entertainment and commonplace items to the middle class, as well as household appliance to today's society. Another benefit, included the shift from steam engines to that of internal combustion, seen in automobiles (500). On another side, factories became more efficient by means such as the open-hearth process used in steel mills, leading to lower wages, and longer hours for workers (500). Although the first example has provided today’s society with modern appliances, the latter was more significant during the early 19th century. Now that production lines were more prominent, workers no longer needed to be skilled in multiple jobs, and in turn they were easily replaced by those willing to work for the lowest price. As factory operators pushed their employees to work longer and harder in order to increase profits, unions were formed. An example of this would be the fraternal organizat... ...found that the book gave perspective to each of the individual classes, rather than covering only the bourgeois or the proletariat. Today you will scarcely find a job or institution were women are not allowed, had I not read this chapter it would have been very difficult for me to understand what women at this time went through. Understanding how the people of this time period lived allows me to relate this information to today’s society. This will aid me for the exam by allowing me to connect with these events, in a very personal manner. However I believe that if there were more potential questions at the end of the chapters it would provide more food for thought, and better help one learn the material. Furthermore being able to use more outside material for this assignment, would have led to a more diversified view, as well as more supported arguments.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

New Research Indicates That Drug Therapy Is More :: essays research papers

For decades, psychologists have devised many treatment regimes for schizophrenia patients, with varying degrees of success and effectiveness. There have been great obstacles in their efforts, mainly due to the fact that patients of schizophrenia lack insight into their impaired conditions. Often patients refuse treatment of any kind because they do not perceive any mental illness associated with their behaviour. In particular, individuals suffering from paranoid schizophrenia regard therapy as intrusions from hostile outside forces, which reduces compliance on the part of the patient (Davison & Neale,1998). Other problems with treatment programs for schizophrenic’s is that they suffer from both positive and negative symptoms, each requiring different type of treatments. In order to combat the difficulty of treating schizophrenia, several techniques have been devised; psychoanalytic therapy, behavioural therapy, family therapy and most predominantly, drug therapies. Drug therapy is the primary form of treatment implemented at the onset of schizophrenia. The drug clozapine is very effective for many patients who do not respond to initial drug treatment programs and treats both the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia (Advokat et al., 1999; Robinson et al., 1999). Moreover, a reduction in negative symptoms has also been noted to occur as individuals are treated with amisulpride and (Danion et al., 1999). The use of newer drugs to treat schizophrenia has produced fewer side effects in most patients. However, it has been found that although the use of risperidone to treat patients is very effective in treating the symptoms, there may be negative side effects for women using the drugs (Caracci,1999). As well, haloperidol has been one of the most widely used drugs for treating schizophrenia and is very effective, but if it is over-prescribed it could result in severe side effects for the patient (Yasui et al., 1999). Despite the possible side effects for some patients using drug therapy, it is still the treatment regime which produces in the highest success rate (Davison & Neale, 1998). Psychoanalytical Therapy A revised form of Freud’s psychoanalytical therapy was first devised by Harry Stack Sullivan to treat schizophrenic patients in the early 1920’s. Sullivan believed that schizophrenia was a result of individuals regressing to earlier forms of childhood communication due to the fragile ego’s inability to handling the stress of their interpersonal relationships (Davison & Neale, 1998). He believed that by building a trusting relationship with the patients, the patients would become willing to examine their interpersonal relationships, thus resulting in improvement of symptoms.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

John Adams †Harmonielehre Essay

By inventing the serial system of twelve tone music and atonalism, Schoenberg had created â€Å"the agony of modern music†. The minimalists had rebelled against the systematic, â€Å"aurally ugly† music of Schoenberg and the avant-garde beliefs of atonality being the â€Å"Promised Land†, choosing instead to return to traditional tonality. Adams partially agreed with the rebellion against Schoenbergian music, his works containing distinctly minimalist elements. Thus when he spoke about â€Å"freeing [him]self from the model Schoenberg represented†, he meant to reject serialism and atonality, as well as the process of composing which â€Å"demands rigorous systemization of structure†. However, Adams has also expressed his respect for Schoenberg. Kirchner, with whom Adams studied while at Harvard, had himself been a student of Schoenberg. Though the minimalists had already paved the way for departure from the Schoenbergian model, it was perhaps still a difficult decision for Adams to divert from such an influential figure. After all, Schoenberg pioneered serialism and atonality. In addition, having grown up listening to the popular music of his time, Adams was constantly struggling to find a balance between what he listened to (notably American jazz, popular music, gospel music and rock ‘n’ roll) and the music that he studied in university. Adams had upset two camps of thought with Harmonielehre’s 1985 premiere: â€Å"Minimalists thought it was a tribute to their No. 1 bogeyman while modernists saw it as a reactionary piece that took their hero’s name in  vain.† This essay thus seeks to discuss the main characteristics of Adams’s compositional style in particular reference to Harmonielehre, and hence attempt to determine if, as a result of Adams’s internal conflicts, the said work is more of a refreshing new departure or a return to tried and tested orchestral gestures. Adams’s derivation from atonality may be considered a return to tried and tested orchestral gestures. He was particularly taken with the expressiveness of tonality, appreciating its potential to affect emotions in the hands of masters like Wagner, whom he greatly admired. In contrast, he found atonality â€Å"severely limiting in both its expressive range as well as in its ability to maintain large formal structures.† Adams has re-embraced tonality in much of his music including Harmonielehre, containing long passages employing a single set of pitch classes usually encompassed by one diatonic set. His earlier pieces generally remain diatonic throughout. The first movement of Harmonielehre begins and ends with pounding E minor chords repeated in a typical minimalistic style, and the piece culminates with a tidal wave of brass and percussion over an E-flat major pedal point. However, Adams is not a complete traditionalist as his harmonic vocabulary does not remain limited to purely diatonic chords. Non-diatonic pcs are frequently introduced in his later pieces beginning with Harmonielehre. Pcs outside E minor are first introduced in b.19 of the first movement, in this case D, making the chord an Em7. Example 1. John Adams, Harmonielehre, mm. 17-21, orchestral reduction D reappears in b.31 and henceforth gains prominence. Here, it is featured in the piano, blurring the E minor centre. Example 2. John Adams, Harmonielehre, harmonic sketch The end of the last movement (Meister Eckhardt and Quackie), features more  chromatic harmonies, with a ‘vast harmonic struggle that breaks through into an emphatic release on E-flat major’. Unlike a traditional tonal piece with systematically planned harmonies and a conclusive modulatory sequence, Adams simply â€Å"place[s] the keys together, as if in a mixer, and let them battle it out†. Nevertheless, the chromaticism is built on a diatonic basis, evident from their association with diatonic passages and the secondary role of the non-diatonic pcs. Harmonielehre is thus largely a tonal work and parodies the book by the same title written by Schoenberg, in which he discusses the functions of tonal harmony only to completely renounce it. By the title of Harmonielere, Adams explores aspects of harmony within his own language. Adams’s subscription to minimalism may also be considered a return to tried and tested orchestral gestures since minimalism had been going on for some time before he came on scene. The principal minimalist features include â€Å"a continuous formal structure, an even rhythmic texture and bright tone, a simple harmonic palette, a lack of extended melodic lines, and repetitive patterns.† Some of Adams’s early piano works, notably Common tones in Simple Time (1979-80, rev. 1986), Light Over Water (1983), and Phrygian Gates (1978) fit the aforementioned criteria. This is also observed in the opening of Harmonielehre (Example 3). The minimalistic repetitions of the E minor chords result in the creation of a repetitive pulse. Example 3. John Adams, Harmonielehre, mm. 1-10, orchestral reduction A simple harmonic palette (as discussed earlier) is a feature of both the Minimalist and Tonal traditions. Slow harmonic changes are evident in the opening (Example 3) – the E minor chord lasts till b.19 when D is introduced in the flutes and oboes and only 26 bars later (b.45) is a C added. The harmony finally changes again at b.59.These simple harmonies and gradual harmonic movement further imply the influence of minimalism. Example 4. John Adams, Harmonielehre, harmonic sketch However, Adams expands these minimalist techniques rather than using the aesthetic and style common in Reich’s or Riley’s music. While most minimalists (with the notable exception of La Monte Young) shunned the minimalist label, Adams embraces it and feels that he has exceeded the label: â€Å"Minimalism really can be a bore – you get those Great Prairies of non-event – but that highly polished, perfectly resonant sound is wonderful.† His later works, while still bearing some minimalist characteristics, depart from the common aesthetic, and no attempt is made to achieve systematic purity. Adams formulates his melodies using an additive technique, which is common to Glass. However, unlike Glass, there is no obvious pattern as to where or when Adams chooses to add or subtract notes, and the resultant melody is unpredictable. This is seen in the second violins in the first movement (Example 5): Example 5. Adams, Harmonielehre, mm. 180-84, second violins Another example can be drawn from the opening, featuring the Minimalist repetition of E minor chords which do not recur in any regular rhythmic pattern. The sense of pulse is unclear and somewhat unpredictable as the chords move closer by increments and create a syncopated effect, compromising the Minimalist technique of even and continuous pulsation. Adams’s deviation from Minimalism is also evidenced by his remarks in relation to Harmonielehre: â€Å"I’m not the kind of composer who†¦ previsages the entire structure of a piece in advance†¦ in a certain sense, I feel the structure as I’m creating it.† Adams is not a â€Å"pure† Minimalist – while he utilizes Minimalist techniques, his simultaneous fondness of expressivity is unique. The combination of both traits is a refreshing departure from both extremities. In Adams’ words, â€Å"I don’t have the kind of refined, systematic language that [the minimalists]  have†¦ I rely a lot more on my intuitive sense of balance†¦ as far as I can tell, most nineteenth-century composers wrote on intuitive levels.† He found that the Minimalist aesthetic of non-teleology resulted in a ‘confined emotional bandwidth’ and threatened to limit Minimalist music. Thus in most of his works, he employs Minimalist techniques to explore its â€Å"expressive emotional potential – something the first generation [of Minimalists] generally eschewed.† Adams’ fondness for expressiveness is not only evidenced by his embracement of tonality, but also by other signature Romantic traits found in his works. This is especially true in Harmonielehre, which â€Å"verges on Minimalism, but touches almost as much on a melodic Romanticism†. The combination of minimalist techniques with Romantic expressivity is evidenced in the opening of the last movement. The flutes take the accompanying line, with repetitive patterns first on E and G, then on an E minor triad. A melody characterised by expressive leaps (taken by the strings) is heard over the shimmering waves of repetition. Such timbre further creates a warm, emotive sound. The same movement contains a passage beginning with pounding E minor chords. The harmony here is relatively simple, gradually shifting from one chord to the next through the addition or alteration of a note (a rather Minimalist characteristic). Minimalist harmony combines with the Romantic textures to culminate in the climax (Example 6), with the texture and sound continuously thickening and broadening. Example 6, Harmonic sketch, Meister Eckhardt and Quackie Another example can be seen in the first movement (mm. 254-300), which contains a broad singing melody first carried by the solo horn then cellos, and later the upper strings. The accompanying triple arpeggios (first harp and woodwinds) weld the section with the preceding passage of repetitive patterns and pulses. Along with the sustained brass chords, the music reaches a climax with the amalgamation of the two different styles, reminiscent of Romanticism with the broadening texture and warm sound. Example 7. Harmonielehre I (bar 257 – 267) Thus although these passages clearly exceed the Minimalist style in their melodic and harmonic construction, the Minimalist technique dominates the accompaniment in rhythm and texture, a distinct example of how the music is a ‘refreshing new departure’. â€Å"The shades of Mahler, Sibelius, Debussy, and the young Schoenberg are everywhere in this strange piece.† The second movement of Harmonielehre (The Anfortas Wound) alludes to Sibelius’ Fourth Symphony (1910 – 11), which Adams claims as the ‘primary generating model’ , evidenced by the long, melancholic melody played by muted cellos. This movement also bears a programmatic reference to Wagner’s Parsifal (1857 – 1882) featuring Anfortas , represented by the long, elegiac trumpet solo. Wrenching harmonies, constantly descending chords and regular meters contribute to ‘†¦the imagery of sickness and confinement, one day after another, just rolling on.’ The ending of the movement contains two giant climaxes, the second one a tribute to Mahler’s unfinished Ninth Symphony (1909 – 1919). The first movement bears a tribute to the late Romantics, including allusions to, ironically, Schoenberg’s Gurrelieder (1900 – 1911). The shimmering effect in the opening of the third movement even alludes to early Impressionism. These Romantic traits, along with the Minimalistic slow harmonic rhythms, again show the eclectic treatment of both styles. In conclusion, Harmonielehre is a combination of â€Å"the harmonic economy of Minimalism with the picturesque extravagance of late-Romantic orchestration.† Adams does not revolutionize music in the way that Schoenberg or the minimalists did by completely rejecting the previous popular approach to composition. His music could thus be considered a return to tried and tested orchestral gestures. However, by combining both romantic expressiveness and minimalist techniques, he has created a new level of balance between the two which is indubitably a refreshing departure from both styles. In his own words, Adams says that â€Å"[Many composers] want to rewrite history or something. I don’t.† Bibliography Books J. Adams, Hallelujah Junction: Composing an American Life (London, 2008) A. Schoenberg, Theory of Harmony (London, 1983) O. Karolyi, Modern American Music: from Charles Ives to minimalists (United States, 1996), 304 D. A. Lee, Masterworks of 20th-Century Music: The Modern Repertory of the Symphony Orchestra (New York, August 2002), 1-7 Watkins, 572. / 576-77 Articles J. Adams, Introductory Notes for Harmonielehre John Adams, quoted in Michael Steinberg, â€Å"Harmonium, by John Adams,† program notes for the San Francisco Symphony, Stagebill, 4, 6-7 Jan. 1987, 20B. Philip Clark, Programme Notes for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, 28 Jan 2011 The discussion between Jonathan Cott and Adams concerning Harmonielehre in liner notes to Harmonielehre (Nonesuch 79115, 1985) T. A. Johnson, ‘Minimalism: Aesthetic, Style or Technique?’, The Music Quarterly, Vol. 78, No. 4 (Winter, 1994), 747-773 T. A. Johnson, ‘Harmonic Vocabulary in the Music of John Adams: A Hierarchical Approach’, Journal of Music Theory, Vol. 37, No. 1 (Spring, 1993), 117-156 T. May, ‘Interview: John Adams reflects on his career’, The John Adams Reader, ed. Thomas May (USA, 2006), 2-28 C. Pellegrino, ‘Aspects of Closure in the Music of John Adams’, Perspectives of New Music, Vol. 40, No. 1 (Winter, 2002), 147-175 A. Ross, ‘The Harmonist’, The John Adams Read er, ed. Thomas May (USA, 2006), 29-44 K. R. Schwarz, â€Å"Young Composers: John Adams,† Music and Musicians, Mar. 1985, 10. K. R. Schwarz, ‘Process vs. Intuition in the Recent Works of Steve Reich and John Adams’, American Music, Vol. 8, No. 3 (Autumn, 1990), 245-273 M. Steinberg, ‘Harmonielehre’, The John Adams Reader, ed. Thomas May (USA, 2006), 101-105 John Adams, quoted in Michael Steinberg, â€Å"Harmonium, by John Adams,† program notes for the San Francisco Symphony, Stagebill, 4, 6-7 Jan. 1987, 20B David Sterritt, â€Å"John Adams and His Nixon in China’: Could This Be Another ‘Porgy and Bess’?† Christian Science Monitor, 19 Oct. 1987, 21-22 John Adams, â€Å"From Nixon in China to Walt Whitman: An Interview with John Adams† interview by Edward Strickland, Fanfare, Jan-Feb. 1990, 46. Websites P. Gutmann, ‘John Adams – Popularity without Pondering’, Classical Notes (accessed 15 November 2011), http://www.classicalnotes.net/columns/adams.html#harmonielehre J. Kosman, ‘Harmonielehre, John Adams’, Chester Novello (accessed 15 November 2011), http://www.chesternovello.com/default.aspx?TabId=2432&State_3041=2&workId_3041=23704 D. Robertson, ‘Transcript of David Robertson: Conductor and music scholar discusses the importance of John Adams’ orchestral work â€Å"Harmonielehre† in helping us understand the way music can look back yet anticipate the new in musical sounds’, The Music Show (accessed 20 November 2011), http://www.abc.net.au/rn/music/mshow/s924166.htm C. Zeichner, ‘Minimalism maximized – John Adams’, Ariama (accessed 21 November 2011), http://www.ariama.com/features/minimalism-maximized-john-adams Discography J. Adams, Harmonielehre, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Sir Simon Rattle (EMI Classics), 1994, CD B000002RU2 General Comments An excellent response to the question. You have used an admirable range of sources and, most importantly, identified critical material arising from the premiere of the piece. You have not only used music examples effectively, but made your own harmonic analyses where none others were available. Your writing style is clear and concise and citation accurate. Countermarker’s comment: agreed. An outstanding essay, well-done! ——————————————– [ 1 ]. J. Adams, Introductory Notes for Harmonielehre [ 2 ]. Loc. cit. [ 3 ]. J. Adams, Hallelujah Junction: Composing an American Life (London, 2008), p.107 [ 4 ]. K. R. Schwarz, ‘Process vs. Intuition in the Recent Works of Steve Reich and John Adams’, American Music, Vol. 8, No. 3 (Autumn, 1990), p.245-273 [ 5 ]. Philip Clark, Programme Notes for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, 28 Jan 2011 [ 6 ]. Adams, Op. cit., 104 (Hallelujah Junction) [ 7 ]. Henceforth abbreviated as â€Å"pcs† [ 8 ]. T. A. Johnson, ‘Harmonic Vocabulary in the Music of John Adams: A Hierarchical Approach’, Journal of Music Theory, Vol. 37, No. 1 (Spring, 1993), 117-156 [ 9 ]. Examples: Harmonium (1980), Common Tones in Simple Tone (1979) and Shaker Loops (1978) [ 10 ]. T. A. Johnson, ‘Minimalism: Aesthetic, Style or Technique?’, The Music Quarterly, Vol. 78, No. 4 (Winter, 1994), 747-773 [ 11 ]. Johnson, Op. cit, 136 (Journal of Music Theory) [ 12 ]. Adams, Op. cit., 130 (Hallelujah Junction) [ 13 ]. M. Steinberg, ‘Harmonielehre’, The John Adams Reader, ed. Thomas May (USA, 2006), 101-105 [ 14 ]. T. A. Johnson, Op. cit, (Journal of Music Theory), 117-156 [ 15 ]. T. A. Johnson, Op. cit. (The Music Quarterly), 747-773 [ 16 ]. T. A. Johnson, Op. cit. (The Music Quarterly), 747-773 [ 17 ]. David Sterritt, â€Å"John Adams and His ‘Nixon in China’: Could This Be Another ‘Porgy and Bess’?† Christian Science Monitor, 19 Oct. 1987, 21-22 [ 18 ]. John Adams, quoted in Michael Steinberg, â€Å"Harmonium, by John Adams,† program notes for the San Francisco Symphony, Stagebill, 4, 6-7 Jan. 1987, 20B [ 19 ]. K. R. Schwarz, Op. Cit. (American Music) 245-273 [ 20 ]. T.A. Johnson, Op. Cit. (Journal of Music Theory), 117-156 [ 21 ]. From the discussion between Jonathan Cott and Adams concerning Harmonielehre in liner notes to Harmonielehre (Nonesuch 79115, 1985) [ 22 ]. John Adams, in an interview held in 1986 [ 23 ]. T. May, ‘Interview: John Adams reflects on his career’, The John Adams Reader, (USA, 2006), 2-28 [ 24 ]. K. Robert Schwarz, â€Å"Young American Composers: John Adams,† Music and Musicians, Mar. 1985, 10. [ 25 ]. Joseph Pehrson, New music Connoisseur, review for Harmonielehre [ 26 ]. T. A. Johnson, Op. Cit. (Journal of Music Theory),754 [ 27 ]. Adams, Op. Cit., Notes for Harmonielehre [ 28 ]. Steinberg, Op. Cit., 103 [ 29 ]. Based on C.G. Jung’s discussion of Anfortas, the king whose wounds could never be healed [ 30 ]. Steinberg, Op. Cit., 105

Monday, September 16, 2019

Appeals Compare and Contrast Essay Essay

In William Shakespeare’s Rendition of Julius Caesar death, the character Brutus must persuade the audience into believing his murder of Caesar was justified. To be sure that he is imprinted as a â€Å"heroine† for saving the roman empire he makes Mark Anthony go, knowing that the audience will believe him for he was Caesars best friend. Brutus makes sure that he implies him as a good guy by giving him restrictions on what he could and could not say, but ultimately Brutus fails with his plan for he did not listen to Anthony’s speech which was one of his most grave mistakes, and Anthony wins over the audience while Brutus is forced to flee from the roman empire. In Brutus’s speech he enlightened the audience through his use of logos by demonstrating the true sense of capability they would have faced if Caesar would have continued as a tyrannical ruler as he says â€Å"would u had Caesar were living, and die slaves†. Brutus stressed the oppressing future and eventual demise of the roman empire as long as Caesar had remained in power, hence his reasoning behind his actions. As Brutus using pathos to persuade the audience as he says â€Å"who here is so vile that will not love his country† Brutus expresses his feelings for the empire and how he cares trying to make the audience feel the dreadful for thinking that his killing of Caesar was a betrayal to the empire. The Biggest flaw was that his speech was too short he never really explained the crimes or tyranny that Caesar had committed and that would eventually be his downfall. As mark Anthony approaches the audience he had to find a way to oblige to Brutus’s rules of not saying anything negative of him. He announces to the audience using logos by expressing his sadness for Caesars death, as he speaks he quotes the conspirators as â€Å"honorable men† as he repeated the quote over and over the audience began to rally up and shout, the more he said it the more the audience realized how Brutus lied to them. Anthony had shown the audience of the Brutus’s betrayal without saying he wasn’t a honorable man. As Anthony says â€Å"He [Caesar] hath brought many captives home to Rome whose ransoms did the general coffers fill† showing that Caesar had cared for the city trying to bring wealth to the empire, but then Anthony says â€Å"but Caesar is ambitious† making the audience praise more for Caesar for he had brought wealth to the empire. Anthony shows the audience of Brutus’s act of violence which ultimately gave Anthony the audience and the upper hand. Anthony showed Brutus as a â€Å"hero† as brutus wanted, but brutus did not expect Brutus fails of his plans to make the audience belive caesars death was justified, Anthony shows the audience in anthonys words, that he was telling the truth from his sadness and tone, while Brutus was failed as he only said a few words and left Anthony all by himself. Ultimately making the audience team up with Anthony, as Brutus flees the empire.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Walt Disney Company

Walt Disney is a well-known name in today’s society. Walt Disney once stated, â€Å"You can dream, create, design and build the most wonderful place in the world but it requires people to make the dream a reality† (Sparks, 2007). Marty Sklar, Vice Chairman and principal creative executive for Walt Disney Imagineering was quoted as saying, â€Å"From the beginning, starting with Walt Disney, we have had five tings that make me proud to be a part of this company: high quality, products, optimism for the future, great storytelling, an emphasis on family entertainment and great talent, passion and dedication from our cast members. Walt Disney has come a long way, but it is still true to its core mission of providing quality entertainment for people around the world (Walt Disney, Culture). Since its founding in 1923, the Walt Disney Company continues to produce unparallel entertainment experiences leading a diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise (Walt Disney, Company overview). With its mission to be one of the world’s leading producers and providers of entertainment, Walt Disney continues to seek and develop the most creative experiences (Walt Disney, Who we are). Walt Disney’s values are what make the company stand out. These values are innovation, quality, community, storytelling, optimism and decency (Walt Disney, Culture). These values and culture is what reinforces their commitment and responsibility to the people in their organization. The services include talent acquisition, learning and development, employee services and events, and communication (Walk Disney, Business Standards and Ethics). Even though Disney locations throughout the world have many similarities, the biggest difference is in the culture. Each location offers culture that coincides with the location and its evident when each location was created, a lot of thought was put into making sure that the environment and culture would appeal to that community (Sparks, 2007). Part of this is due to the communication that frequently highlights initiatives and strategies as well as employee recognition, business conduct and ethics practices and social responsibility practices (Walt Disney, Business Standards and Ethics). Walt Disney realized early on that in order to be successful, training and organizational behavior methods would need to be implemented. The desire for all his employees to be customer responsive led to the development of the Disney Institute in 1986. The variety of training and the benefits of the training supplement the organizational culture of the company. Due to the detailed thought that went into training shows by the customer satisfaction with the show of jam packed theme parks year round (Sparks, 2007). The training deals with organizational behavior concepts including decision making, motivation, group behavior, communication, organizational culture, organizational structure and human resources practices. The Disney Institute created classes to teach employees how to create organizational culture along with observing group behavior and teaching motivation. As a result, other companies seek this training from the Disney Institute. The Institute also includes traditions which submerge the employees into the dream and mission of Disney and how Walt wanted the company to continue even after his death (Sparks, 2007). With the culture that Disney created, employees need to feel that they are valued as individuals and vital to the team. Disney has created this with open communication throughout the chain of command, comprehensive training and rewards. As a result, Disney has one of the lowest attrition rates for any company in the United States. The basic belief is that if you do not have happy employees, you cannot have happy guests. Disney’s philosophy of how to treat employees has been passed on year after year and is an example of organizational culture and an example of human resources practices (Sparks, 2007). One way Disney utilizes the communication from its employees is by using a 120 questions survey about management performance. These surveys convey if the is effective communication between management and employees. After the surveys are completed, staff meetings are held to discuss staff concerns and resolutions are discussed. These meetings are usually held within three weeks to show employees that Disney is concerned about the welfare of their employees and to help satisfy them. Walt Disney Company believes that every cast member and staff have valuable information that can be shared through ongoing communication efforts. As we can see, communication is as important as the company’s values are (Sparks, 2007). As with any company, strong beliefs, values and communication are needed in order for a company to succeed. Founded in 1923, the Walt Disney Company has maintained these strong beliefs, values and communication needed to ensure its success today. The success in employee training with the Disney Institute has led to other companies seeking their help (Sparks, 2007). This just strengthens the fact that Walt Disney Company has never wavered from its mission to be one of the world’s leading producers and providers of entertainment. References: Sparks, W. (September 23, 2007). The Magic of Disney’s Organizational Behavior Concepts. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/381660/the_magic_of_disneys_organizational.html?cat=3 Walt Disney Company. (n.d.). Business Standards and Ethics. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://corporate.disney.go.com/corporate/cr_human_resources.html Walt Disney Company. (n.d.). Company Overview. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://corporate.disney.go.com/corporate/overview.html Walt Disney Company. (n.d.). Culture. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://corporate.disney.go.com/careers/culture.html Walt Disney Company. (n.d). Who we are. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://corporate.disney.go.com/careers/who.html