Rape Simulator Video Games and Democracy Essay Example

Rape Simulator Video Games and Democracy Paper Is the rape simulator video game good or bad for democracy? Throughout human history violent forms of entertainment have existed alongside refined ones. In Ancient Rome, for example, when modern mediums of entertainment such as Television, video games, etc did not exist, gladiator fights were a popular pass-time. This prompted Saint Augustine to note that not only did people liked violence as passive spectators, but it has also induced in them a ‘fascination for blood’. Today, such violence-ridden games like gladiator fights are forbidden by law and social norms. But the ‘fascination for blood’, apparently inherent to human nature, is exploited by movie makers and video-game manufacturers. The movie titled Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe, is one example of this phenomenon; the controversial rape simulator video game produced in Japan is another key example. While the former is legally permitted and is accepted by mainstream audiences and commentators, the latter has not gained approval on both legal and ethi cal grounds. The game has been banned in the United States due to its perverse and obscene nature. For instance, players earn points for acts of sexual violence, including following girls (mostlty wearing highschool outfit), raping virgins and their mothers, and then forcing them to have abortions. (Moses, 2010) The public debate that the game has spurred has expanded beyond its utility, value, etc, to broader considerations such as its effect on the health of democracy. The rest of this essay will support the view that videogames such a Rape Simulator are not only hazardous for the players and the societies they inhabit, but their negative effects pervade to undermine democratic processes and institutions of a country. According to Aristotle’s theory of Catharsis, people release their violent pulsation by seeing them portrayed by other agents/actors. This way the pent up frustration is released, which could otherwise lead to violent behavior. Applying this theory to the video-game in question, one could deduce that playing the game will reduce the actual number of incidents of rape in society, for the real is substituted by the simulated. (End Violence Against Women, 2010) But actual facts are not consistent with the theory, as proved by scholar S.Feshback. He took 625 junior high school boys and asked half of them to watch a violent television program for 6 weeks. The other half was as to watch non-violent programming. At the end of 6 weeks, when teachers evaluated the students, no difference in aggressive behavior was observed. However, there was a decline in aggression among students who were previously assessed by personality tests to be more inclined toward aggressive behavior. Co nsidering that such students formed only a small minority, the Catharsis theory does not hold true for this case. Countering the validity of the Catharsis theory is the Aggressive Simulation theory, which states that people are inspired by what they see. Meaning that if they see violence they will reproduce it. In other words, what these video games do is to break down social barriers for those who are predisposed to such behavior. Since the maintenance of law and order is essential for the smooth functioning of democratic societies, it follows that perpetration of violent behavior (as a mirror effect of watching and simulating violent acts) will undermine democracy. (Alexander, 2009) We will write a custom essay sample on Rape Simulator Video Games and Democracy specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Rape Simulator Video Games and Democracy specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Rape Simulator Video Games and Democracy specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We live in a world were we are constantly bombarded with information, most of which encourage us to buy this or that product. The power of marketing has already been demonstrated through the century long history of our Public Relations industry. Indeed, the PR industry and the media together wield huge power over the thoughts of citizens. In such a scenario, a person with a fragile mind, meaning someone who cannot make the distinction between what is right or wrong, receives massive exposure to violence through advertisements and other marketing campaigns, it can lead to disastrous consequences. These include acts of brutality, anger, savageness, torture, sadism, etc (all of these qualities are encouraged by Rape Simulator). Hence it is imperative that such games are censored or banned from public consumption. (Haydon, 2009) The fact that Rape Simulator encourages sexual acts with schoolgirls is a cause for concern, as it implies pedophilia. Although the game is meant for adults only, the objects of sexual desire depicted within it qualify as adolescents. The same criticism can be applied toward the sale of schoolgirl outfits in sex shops. Both of them are encouraging pedophilia and rape and inducing perversity and abuse, which are inconsistent with democratic concepts. We can no longer argue that it is it is not so bad for society, for it is just a game and it doesn’t harm anybody. In fact, based on the dangers to democracy we discussed so far, one can further argue that any video game that includes murder, war, robbery, gun shot should be therefore forbidden. (The Free Library, 2010) At least in these latter examples, one could come up with justifications. For example, one can justify robbery (to feed oneself or pay the rent to give a home to his/her children), one can justify shooting wi th a gun (to kill a murderer, saving lives), and one can justify war (which our government does it everyday). The rape simulator video game, on the other hand, is undermining the very integrity and foundations of democratic civil society. We should also keep in mind that censorship and freedom of speech are counteracting principles. But virulent forms of free expression such as the Rape Simulator game should be banned in the larger interests of democratic societies. This conflict is identified by sexual assault victims’ rights advocates as well. But they say that civil rights should not be abused in order to promote a culture of tolerance for rape and violence against women. (Haydon, 2009) On the other hand, banning or censoring any thing puts it on the spotlight, giving it free publicity that marketers are happy to see happen. In my own case, my first reaction when I heard about this game was to go â€Å"check it out†; and am sure such is the reaction of many players. Even if the game is made illegal, there are many ways for getting hold of it and playing it. Censuring it is not going to stop people to play it as it only adds publicity and attention to the game . However making it legal would also not serve the democratic purpose, as it would mean that society has lost its ethical compass and the sense of right and wrong. Hence, in conclusion, a tactful and nuanced dealing of the problem is required. Otherwise, democratic societies will steadily march toward decadence and anarchy. Bibliography Race Simulator game goes Viral amid calls for Censorship, retrieved from on 5th November, 2010 Leigh Alexander, And You Thought Grand Theft Auto Was Bad : Should the United States ban a Japanese â€Å"rape simulator† game?, Monday, March 9, 2009, Rape Simulator games and the Normalization of Sexual Violence, The Free Library retrieved on 5th November, 2010 from Harry Haydon, Rape Simulator sold in Amazon, 13th Feb, 2009, retrieved from Video game featuring rape pulled from Amazon, retrieved on 5th November, 2010 from Japan: Rape simulator games and the normalization of sexual violence, Say No- End Violence Against Women, retrieved on 5th Novemeber 2010 from Asher Moses, Rape Simulator game goes Viral amid calls for Censorship, March 31, 2010, retrieved on 5th November, from http://www.youtube.com/verify_age?next_url=http%3A//www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3Da54Pu9dTJfQ

Sigmar Polke essays

Sigmar Polke essays One of the most important and influential figures on the artistic scene today, Sigmar Polke began his career as a painter in 1963. A number of drawings from the first decade of his activity, most of which has never been seen in the United States, have been assembled for Sigmar Polke: Works on Paper, 1963-1974. Ranging from ballpoint and felt-tipped pen drawings devoted to Capitalist Realism imagery to a series of monumental works from the 1970s, the selection of about 180 drawings and some twenty sketchbooks illustrate all the themes and techniques that Polke explored during this time. Polke was born in East Germany in 1941. At the age of twelve he moved to Dusseldorf, where he studied at the Kunstakademie and produced his first work. Although his work is contemporaneous to American Pop art, Polke demonstrates a different relationship to consumerism than his American counterparts. Rather than showing the glories of modern life, he distorts or disrupts the ready-made iconography, filling it with a personal message. Exhibitions of drawings have been organized in Europe; they have never been fully shown to an American audience. If you want consistency in an artist, you will never find it in Polke. His imagination is sardonic wit and eclectic creative process that have made him one of the most stimulating artists of his generation. Polke has experimented with various styles in modern art ranging from grisaille portraits of furniture, interiors of houses, building exteriors and hand-painted rasters of dots. Polke didnt have the best of materials-usually ballpoint pen on newsprint, sometimes with watercolor or colored pencil-he drew bits and pieces of cartoons and advertisements. Polke also used dots in his works, throwing dot and circle patterns into different pictures. An example Polke did was an Oswald portrait, which was One of the Raster Drawings, most of which employ anonymous figures that...

Response paper for art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Response paper for art - Essay Example The floor lines being â€Å"tilted up† as well as the â€Å"bold contours† accentuate focus on the frontal plane, where various constituents of the piece, such as â€Å"words, performers, spectators, and lights† appear parallel (Kiehl & Cate, 1988). Another element that can be seen in this work, is the Japanese influence Lautrec has in his art, such as shedding partial view on La Goulue, the sensual female dancer depicted in the image. In this poster, Lautrec uses the technique of brush and spatter lithography, and on a closer inspection, it can be seen that the poster is a print comprising of four colors on three sheets. The poster is made out of the primary colors â€Å"red, blue and yellow† and makes use of thick audacious lines at places. Lautrec has deftly captured not only the setting, that is, the Moulin Rogue, but also the various people and the actions they perform, and this characterization makes the work a

Summary analyses respons Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Summary analyses respons - Essay Example The legacy has been privatized and the idea of public good has been forgotten. The Olympic legacy requires both the public and private sector’s participation to sustain. This will support those who do not pay their way, loss of a permanent athletics track, and making the folk who produce the sports clothing not the biggest winners in the Olympic Games. The audience includes the organizers of Olympic Games as well as the universities having the regeneration gurus. The fundamental purpose of the article was to convey that the Olympic Games take a lot of public money and benefit only the private sector, thus causing little improvement in the socioeconomic conditions of the boroughs. The article is a criticism of the Olympic Games’ effectiveness in addressing their intended purposes. I personally agree to the author of the article because the flow of money in the Olympic Games has historically been from the public towards the private sector, while the noble objectives have been largely

Security Planning and Risk Assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Security Planning and Risk Assessment - Essay Example Failing to include employee training in risk planning leaves one of the manager's most valuable resources unused. Employees have the best and most current knowledge of security vulnerabilities. Employees will often accept these vulnerabilities as being someone else's job, or fail to recognize their importance. Making employees aware of the problem, and their individual responsibility, can often disclose security risks that might be otherwise overlooked. In addition, they may be a significant source of intelligence concerning an impending, or ongoing, threat. Good employee awareness and communication are the first steps in designing and implementing a risk-reduction program within an organization. 2.) The roles that the government and private-sector play in the protection of private-sector critical infrastructure facilities is usually determined by two factors; budgetary concerns, and expertise. Currently the federal government plays a significant part during the mitigation phase to train and organize security for these concerns. This is appropriate, as it ensures that executives and managers have the latest information concerning research and threats that are constantly changing. This also gives the public a reassurance that the security of these high value assets is coordinated on the federal level. While the government brings considerable expertise to the scenario, the private concern is expected to assume the budgetary requirements. In a free market economy, the private corporation is generally responsible for the immediate security of their assets. This includes physical security and access control. However, the protection of some assets that are critical to the economy, or health and safety, is in the interest of all citizens. The nature of the threat may demand a level of security that is not economically practical for a private business. According to Ortmeier (2008), "Industry standards indicate that the protection cost should be less than 2 percent of the value of the asset to be protected" (p.186). When the cost of security becomes excessive, it is not unreasonable to expect the taxpayer to bear a portion of the cost. Examples would be federal marshals on selected airline flights, or securing material that has a high value to a terrorist for use in explosives. The government should also pass and enforce legislation that mandates security and inspection at critical facilities. The programs that the DEA and EPA currently have that require securing, monitoring, and accounting for drugs and toxic chemicals could be expanded to include other assets.  

Consumer Buying Behavior: Digital Marketing

Consumer Buying Behavior: Digital Marketing A very important aspect related to the online marketing is its ability to contact potential customers irrespective of time and location. A major transformation has occurred due to the evolution of the mobile phone. Mobile marketing has been defined as the utilization of a medium that is wireless to ensure that consumers have access to information that is real time-based, location-sensitive and personalized, which aims towards promoting products, services, and ideas, thus proving beneficial for all stakeholders (Robinson, Wysocka, Hand, 2007). According to (Shukla, 2010) mobile marketing will prove to be extremely popular on account of the fact that the mobile phone will be used as a personal device. Mobile commerce has been the outcome of the swift development of the mobile phone. ]]]/|}|}Definitions related to mobile commerce alike in all existent literature. Mobile commerce transactions refer to all transactions conducted through a mobile communication network using monetary values. According to Robinson, Wysocka and Hand, (2007) (Robinson, Wysocka, Hand, 2007) any e-commerce transaction that uses the media of mobile devices and that is conducted through wireless telecommunication networks and other wired e-commerce technologies may be termed mobile commerce. According to Frolick and Chen, (2004) (Frolick Chen, 2004) mobile commerce maybe defined as any form of mobile communication that occurs between a business and its customer. Dholakia and Dholakia opine that mobile commerce is used to carry out electronic commerce-transactions throuvgh mobile phones and wireless terminals. Finally, (Balasubramanian, Peterson, Jarvenpaa, 2002)define any transaction that is carried out over a wireless telecommunication network, either directly or indirectly, as mobile commerce. Thus, to conclude, mobile commerce may be considered to be a business model that enables a consumer to undergo all the steps of a commercial transaction simply using a mobile phone. The media through which consumers will be able to conduct their transactions have the potential to undergo transformation primarily due to the development and usage of mobile commerce as a technology that is gradually emerging. Not just consumers but marketers too are attracted to mobile commerce that is based on wireless communication technology. The availability of this new technology will provide for a complete make-over in the fields of advertising, retailing and shopping in the domain of marketing. Companies that desire to conduct business operations in mobile markets must then, be ready to adopt mobile marketing and mobile commerce. Mobile commerce will be similar in many respects to the internet-based e-commerce but it will also be distinct in some aspects. These are: Ubiquity- The ability that makes it possible for mobile commerce to be availed of anywhere and at any time. Personalization- Mobile hardware undoubtedly is limited by its memory capacity. However, software can be used in such a way that the users needs are satisfied. Flexibility- Users can conduct transactions and/or receive information even when they are engrossed in other activities, such as, travel or work. Dissemination- It is quite possible that the people who act as the origins of information (for example, local retailers) may make use of the wireless network of mobile commerce so that the customers get the required, specific information. Convenience- Users can operate mobile phones very easily. Instant connectivity- Marketers can use the mobile phones to connect with target users just by clicking a button. Location- It is possible to provide location-specific information and products using a mobile phone. The channels related to mobile commerce and mobile marketing need to be comprehended and further analyzed although a number of companies utilize these channels extensively. This research aims at drawing the attention of entrepreneurs towards the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) operators as well as towards the opportunities that exist in the domain of mobile commerce and mobile marketing. This research will focus on (1) mobile commerce and concepts related to mobile marketing (2) tools available for mobile marketing (3) the significance of mobile marketing in India and (4) the comprehension and examination of consumers attitudes towards mobile marketing tools. The digital world has introduced a new aspect of marketing and branding and this has seen an increase in the number of consumers who have turned to the digital space to get their daily dose of entertainment, education, media, and more. The Internet, social media, interactive television, CDs, DVDs, and cell phones are all various aspects of the digital world and these will be preferred extensively by people in the context of digital marketing. The usage of digital media will prove to be an extremely cost-effective measure that will efficiently enhance the online presence of a business thereby increasing it manifold. The popular saying that there is no such thing as a free lunch has been negated by the digital media. This is because marketing using social media and blogs will be seen to help an individual reach out to professionals who were thus far untouched. Also this will increase the visibility among the users of the websites. Consumers will be b able to avail of these services at no cost (Cheung, 2006). If I refer to the figures from Internet World Stats dated March 2008, Internet usage is said to have risen to 91.3% between 2000 and 2008. The spurt in Internet usage has been seen as enabling companies to grab the chance to interact with global customers through online advertising thus resulting in spending of over USD 60 billion in 2008. (Media, 2008) The aspect of digital marketing is quickly automated and adapted to. Digital marketing unlike its other counterparts will be available 24 hours a day, and will not be disrupted by weekends, holidays, hangovers, late lunches, etc. Digital marketing will be easy to connect to and will follow all commands without questioning. It will target prospects, who are interested in the products displayed that very moment (Nicopolitidis, Obaidat, Papadimitriou, Pomportsis, 2003).. Digital marketing will be most preferred because advertising space online will be much cheaper than the print version and will offer better visibility.. The content however will have to be framed in such a manner as to be of use to consumers or else it may have a negative impact. This low-cost marketing technique is expected to be useful to small businesses too. Marketing prospects will increase because of the availability of information through digital media. It will now be possible to decide the target consumers and use a mix of various measures, examinations and profiling of consumers/segmentation to enable a two-way communication process (Thomas Gillenson, 2003). 2. Background The interactive digital advertising perspective includes presentation of information using means that depend on digital technology. Using digital technology makes it possible to create an immediate communication process between marketers and consumers (Stewart, 2004). Consumers can control advertising through interactive digital media by manipulating what they view on the screen while surfing online (Stern, 1994). Given that it can be measured easily, it is precise, customized, and personalized apart from being able to target consumers easily (Iii Woodside, 2005), interactive digital marketing ends up being a very good potential tool for advertisers (Radzeviciute Sliburyte, 2005). Tools that refer to interactive digital advertising include the: Online community, short messaging systems, and the transfer of photographic images using computers that have internet access and mobile phones, which are commonly used today (Stewart, 2004). It can be clearly seen that interactive digital advertising will explore and further strengthen the connection between computers with internet access and mobile phones. Advertising using the above-mentioned media will also be sub-divided into internet-based e- and email advertising, and mobile-phone-based SMS- and MMS-type advertising. 3. Research Aims The main objective of the research will be to examine the attitudes of the consumer towards the four different types of interactive digital advertising including: Internet-based e- and email advertising apart from the mobile-phone-based SMS- and MMS-type advertising. 4. Research Objectives The chief aims of the research include: To estimate if there have been changes in the Indian customers buying behavior due to digital marketing. To evaluate the attitude of the consumers in the context of interactive digital advertising. To analyze different marketing models. To study the various strategies and policies that organizations are likely to follow in this dynamic Indian market. 5. Literature Review Given the prolific use of digital media interactivity amongst advertisers and consumers, marketing activity has been upwardly impacted. Any form of advertising that includes the chances of interacting with consumers is known as interactive digital media. A producer can use this medium to interact with consumers by conducting campaigns related to his products (Schlosser, Shavitt, Kanfer, 1999). The TV-like experience is no longer relevant today. Consumers now demand much more given the rapid inroads being made by interactive digital advertising. Consumers also prefer options like In-Stream, In-Game, HD interactive video, IPTV, interactive kiosks, and mobile advertising platforms (Cho Cheon, 2004). This undoubtedly heralds a change in marketing and the shifts are obvious. Though these run parallel to the increased expectations of consumers these in no way put any boundaries as there may be new and modern forms of advertising that may evolve in the future. The main aim of any Digital Advertising medium will be to draw the attention of the consumer by inventing new and creative advertisements that enable development of personal relations. New technology will enable agencies and advertisers to make use of, evolve and reach new levels of brand-awareness and consumer commitment (Martin, van Durme, Raulas, Merisavo, 2003). This new medium of advertising will pave the way for agencies and advertisers alike to command increased values in terms of worth that is returned. Using the internet as a medium for advertising will now gain significance for gathering consumer information as there has been a rise in the number of internet users (Cheung, 2006). Mobile phones will ensure that targeting consumers becomes even more accurate compared to what it was like before and advertisers will be able to reach potential clients at places and times that are most suitable for the marketing campaign, while at the same time ensuring high interactivity (Nicopolitidis, Obaidat, Papadimitriou, Pomportsis, 2003). The internet advertising industry will thus take recourse to mobile phones (Thomas Gillenson, 2003). Advertising within these two potential channels may be of four types and will include: Internet-based advertising through the website (e-advertising), emailing (email advertising), and mobile-phone-based advertising (m-advertising) of the SMS- (short messaging service) and MMS-types (multimedia messaging service). If I consider the two communication media forms, interactive and individual,, they will comprise what I call interactive digital advertising. It is important to understand consumer behavior towards this medium as the attitudes of the consumer will impact consumer exposure, attention, and reaction to individual advertisements (Schlosser, Shavitt, Kanfer, 1999). There have been a few instances of empirical studies carried out in the context of consumer attitudes and e-advertising (Ravi, 2005). Yet, a majority of the literature fails to include email advertising in its research. Many are unsuccessful in distinguishing email advertising from other forms of advertising. Still, there is limited research which emphasizes email advertising (Martin, van Durme, Raulas, Merisavo, 2003). If I consider advertising, there exist a small number of articles that focus on consumer attitudes towards SMS-type m-advertising, including the study by Tsang, et al., (2004), Rettie, et al., (2005), and Carroll, et al., (2007). The new generation MMS-type m-advertising has received practically no attention from the academic aspect. The fact is that consumer markets and communication media will become fragmented to a great extent (Karson, et al., 2006) so it is important that the differences between the media in the advertising domain be noted. Any analysis that is carried out, which focuses on these differences will enable the marketers to get in-depth information related to the application and suitability of individual sub-types of interactive digital advertising. It will also help choose between the four available sub-types of interactive digital advertising channels to ensure that the message is communicated correctly to the customers. Still, empirical studies related to this subject are rarely found. This research will help aid further study into consumer attitudes related to interactive digital advertising. Actually, this research will aim at identifying the differences that are present in consumer attitudes, which may be related to these four sub-types of interactive digital advertising. I can conclude by stating that the research questions in this study will be designed so as to elucidate whether the attitudes of the consumers differ when it comes to internet-based e- and email advertising, and mobile-phone-based SMS- and MMS-type advertising. Today, when the media are so fragmented there are several ways that can be used to create advertising campaigns that use Interactive Digital Advertising. Interactive Digital Advertising will be inevitable given the Internet is becoming an inseparable and intrinsic part of our lives. 6. Research Methodology Research methodology is the core behind any research that is conducted. I will opt for the Questionnaire method since the primary data suits the needs of this research. There were 20 questions included in the questionnaire that were simple to comprehend. The questions were all close-ended. This has eased the workload of both the researcher and the respondents.

The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood and Brave New World by Aldous Hu

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood and Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. While there are many differences between the societies portrayed in dystopic literature, they still have the common bond of lacking the fundamental freedoms required for a properly operated society to exist. This cannot be truer for The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood and Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. These novels prove that the individual's freedom are sacrificed in dystopic societies when the government controls the knowledge, individuality and relationships of each person in order for there to be stability in the society. Dystopia is shown in each of the novels through: the use of conflict demonstrating the authority over knowledge, the use of theme to establish the lack of identity and the use of character to show the control of knowledge. It is evident in both novels that a dystopic society exists through the authors' use of conflict to illustrate the control of knowledge of the past and present in order for there to be stability. For example, in The Handmaid's Tale, all Handmaids are forbidden from reading or writing, this is an attempt by the leaders of the society to control the knowledge their citizens can utilize. This control extends over any form of written word, and if the rules are disobeyed, there are consequences: "Scrabble!. This was once the game of old women, old men to be played in retirement villas when there was nothing good on television. Now it's forbidden, for us. Now it's dangerous. Now it's indecent . Now it's desirable" (Atwood 174). In this society, Scrabble is considered "forbidden" because of what it represents -- freedom of expression. The consequences the leaders have imposed create a c... ...ge, individuality and relationships of each person in order for there to be stability in the society. Through the use of conflict, dystopia is established in both of the novels using the control of knowledge of the past and present in the society in order for stability. In addition, through the use of theme, dystopia is established using the lack of identity of each member of the society in order for stability to be in the society. Finally, through the use of character, dystopia is established through the control of the relationships in each member of the societies. In order for there to be stability in a society there must be sacrifices made, especially in a society that is considered dystopic. Works Cited ----------- Atwood, Margaret. The Handmaid's Tale. U.S.A: Seal Books, 1986. Huxley, Aldous. Brave New World. Hammersmith, London: Flamingo, 1994.

Rethink your Drink Essay

Based on the feedback that I received from my provider Mable Siow, a CFNP at the pueblo clinic, I chose a poster presentation. I am a school nurse in a Native American Pueblo and because of the high obesity rate we have among our young people, I chose to teach about high caloric drinks. A poster presentation was appropriate because of my audience. The theme of my presentation was â€Å"Rethink Your Drink† Please see photo below. My school conducted a small health fair in our gym, on Friday March 3rd 2010, I was able to create a poster board presentation exactly like the one depicted above. I added Red bull and Monster as I have confiscated these types of drinks from my middle school kids. The reaction and response I received from the kids and the parents was amazing. When you create a display such as this, it is easy enough to understand and the visual presentation is a very powerful tool in the teaching of how much sugar is consumed in each drink. By the time the parents and kids left my table, I received some very positive feedback. I also had handouts of information that I downloaded from the internet on the amount of calories that equal one teaspoon of sugar. For example, each teaspoon of sugar is equivalent to 16 calories. If you drink a 20 oz Mountain Dew, you are consuming 312 calories and 19. 5 teaspoons of sugar. The community setting was a combination of a public health clinic and a child care center. I am the school nurse and the audience consisted of my school kids, their parents and the school staff. I believe that this presentation made a big impact on how the parents will view these drinks in the future. Our dental hygienist was very happy to see the presentation and mentioned that she will borrow it for her clinic, as there are high numbers of kids with severe tooth decay.

the importance of Organizational Culture in management The WritePass Journal

the importance of Organizational Culture in management Introduction the importance of Organizational Culture in management IntroductionImplications for Multicultural OrganizationsConclusionRelated Introduction Organizational culture, the most influential of the past several decades has been the largest and concepts of management buzzwords. Hofstede (1997) report that the term as a synonym for organizational culture, organizational climate appeared during the 1960s. Corporate culture after the publication of several popular press in the 1980s, general management buzzword (Deal and Kennedy, 1982 Davis, 1984) has become. Interrelated academic and popular management literature the culture and its impact is reflected in the subjects, there is widespread belief that the organizational culture, organizational effectiveness near (Denison and Mishra, 1995; Kilmann Saxton, and Serpa, 1985; Weiss, 1996) is related. The culture of organizational problems often cause a comfortably vague and is all inclusive. Some examples of the proposed impact of organizational culture remains strong interest in why the concept can underscore. Culture, a source of competitive advantage (Ott, 1989; Peters and Waterman, 1982, Wilkins and amp; Barney, 1986 Ouchi, 1983) as has been explored, although others have limited empirical evidence (Denison and Mishra, 1995 strongly support, Fey and Denison, 2003). Attention post-merger/acquisition integration (Olie, 1990 and 1994; Vaara, 1999; Veiga, Lubatkin, Calori and 2000 very,; Nahavandi and Malekzadeh, 1988 very Calori and Lubatkin, 1993) has been in the organizational culture . Also, organizational culture, success or failure of large-scale efforts to change (Beer and Nohria, 2000 has emerged as a major factor, Brill and Worth, 1997; Burke, 1994; Jick and Peiperl, 2003; Pascale Millemann and Gioja, 1997). In a review of recent diversity literature Jackson, Joshi and Erhardt (2003) report results of studies exploring effects of organizational culture on diversity dynamics. Ely and Thomas (2001 ) contend that diversity is more likely to lead to positive outcomes if organizational culture stresses integration and learning. Cox and Tung (1997) argue that the degree of structure and informal integration in an organization will influence outcomes of diversity. Polzer, Milton and Swann (2002) suggest organizational cultures may influence the process of identity negotiation and that teams are more likely to benefit from diversity when team members identities are verified by reflected appraisals of other team members. Definitions of organizational culture reflects the dichotomy in the conceptualization, although some researchers have developed integration frameworks (eg Martin, 1992; Ott, 1989). On the one hand, culture is seen in practices and behaviors how things are done here (Drennan, 1992, p. 1). Other conceptualize culture in practices that support. In 1992 Hunt say about culture as the value, beliefs ​​and attitudes which shows how the company perceive and Interpretation of events. The same applies to Davis (1984), involves the culture of beliefs and values ​​that give meaning and organization provide members with rules of behavior. Schein (1985) argues that organizational culture should be reserved for the deeper level of basic assumptions and beliefs that are shared by members of an organization, that operate unconsciously and define in a basic taken for acquired fashion an organization seen by himself and his environment (p. 6). Others, such as Hampden-Turner (1990) see culture as a concept fill levels and function at the subconscious level visible and concrete. Hofstede (1997) defines organizational culture as the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of an organization from another (p. 180), but he also argues that the common perception of daily practices must be considered the core of an organization of culture (p. 182-83).Multicultural Organizations: Opportunities and Challenges Much has been written about problems and benefits of diversity in cross-cultural management and diversity literature (e.g. Adler, 2002; Cox Blake, 1991;Elron, 1997; Ely Thomas, 2001; Gentile, 1996; Robinson Deschant, 1997; Watson, Johnson Merritt, 1998). During the past decade, however, there has been an interesting shift in the rhetoric of diversity. Thomas and Ely (1996) cite the increasing emphasis on diversity as a spur for greater organizational effectiveness. Robinson and Deschant (1997) argue that diversity makes good business sense. Popular diversity discourse aside, however, diversity does not automatically lead to greater organizational effectiveness. Although there is general acknowledgement that cultural diversity offers numerous potential benefits to an organization, those benefits may not be realized unless they are purposefully pursued. Moreover, the challenges presented by diversity may negatively impact organizational performance unless properly managed. What are the benefits and challenges of a multicultural organization? When employees representing nine nationalities, who work in eight multicultural organizations in Luxembourg answered those questions they discussed advantages and disadvantages for both organizations and individuals (Trefry, 2001). Without exception those interviewed saw multicultural diversity as an important asset for organizations. They reported organizational advantages such as: a) the possibility of matching employees with diverse customers/clients; b) ability to apply knowledge of different cultures to business projects; c) better decision-making and problem-solving after considering diverse perspectives; and d) more creativity and innovation in products, services and organizational processes. In addition, however, to echoing benefits described in the diversity literature, Luxembourg respondents emphasized personal benefits such as: a) greater personal ability to cope with the unexpected; b) broadening of the ir perspectives on any given issue; c) greater tolerance and acceptance of others differences; d) greater flexibility in their own personal behavior, communication and interaction styles; and e) enhanced self-insight. Interestingly enough, it is understanding the logic of personal benefits cited and applying it at an organizational level that offers insight on how organizations can achieve maximum value from a culturally diverse workforce. Implications for Multicultural Organizations Although multicultural organizations are increasingly the norm, most are just beginning to strategically deal with their cultural diversity. Thus we come back to the primary premise of our exploration: organizational culture has the potential for even greater impact in multicultural organizations because it can intensify both the benefits and the challenges of cultural diversity, and thus indirectly, affect potential competitive advantage. Yet how is it that multicultural organizations manage the challenges and achieve the maximum benefit from their cultural diversity? The answer lies in the nature of the organizational culture as well as a strategic approach to harnessing diversity for benefit of the organization. It is the strategic utilization of cultural differences that creates real competitive advantage for the organization (Schneider Barsoux, 2003). A metaphor of organizational culture as a double-edged sword that cuts in numerous directions seems appropriate. Organizational culture can exacerbate the challenges of diversity. It can also intensify potential benefits. At the practices level organizational culture can facilitate integration; at the level of business assumptions and shared frames of reference guiding how the work of the organization is accomplished there is potential danger that a strong culture can downplay or even negate the advantages of cultural diversity. Too much uniformity in mental models about ways work is approached may encourage employees to accept existing paradigms for the organizations work without ever questioning them. How can organizations create a culture that values differences and purposefully facilitates cultural synergy, as it has been labeled by Adler (2002)? The question leads us to a paradox which needs to be explored at both practices and underlying values, beliefs and assumptions levels of culture. At the practices level organizational norms are operationalized by processes, procedures and policies. Yet acceptance of the value of multiple perspectives and approaches means there is both individual and organizational flexibility to sometimes act outside of delineated policies, processes and procedures and that diverse approaches can co-exist and influence each other. Pascale (1990) describes this paradox as a vector of contention between mandatory and discretionary systems and charges managers with responsibility for orchestrating the tension and harnessing contending opposites (p. 34). Managing this tension between opposites, however, is a significant challenge. The traditional western managerial mindset has stressed consistency of policies and procedures in order to reduce ambiguity and promote internal integration (Senge, 1990). Indeed the common assumption has been that effective organizations have strong, highly consistent and well integrated cultures (Saffold, 1988). Yet there has also been increasing recognition of an organizational irony: well-integrated organizations are often the least responsive to changing conditions (Kanter, Stein Jick, 1992). Success in todays continually changing environments requires that people in organizations think in different ways, learn, and adapt to evolving circumstances. It is such requirements that underscore the need to purposefully explore organizational culture at the underlying beliefs, values and assumptions level. Thinking in different ways, learning and appropriate adaptation can only happen if there is continual questioning of organizational frames of reference those constellations of beliefs, values and assumptions that determine how the organization approaches its business. Here the insight regarding personal benefits of working in a multicultural environment seems applicable. Multicultural team members in Trefrys study (2001) attributed their broadened perspectives, increased personal tolerance, flexibility and adaptability to their exposure to different ways of thinking and their consequent reexamination of their own perspectives. Thus as Gentile (1996) so eloquently asserts, it is precisely through our interactions and confrontations with difference-of perspective, of prior experience, of style, of identity- that we come to recognize the limits of our own perspectives, experiences, and styles (p. 1). The same logic can apply at both individual and organizational levels. Exposure to different values, beliefs, assumptions and perspectives can lead to broadening our frames of reference, whether at a personal level or an organizational level. Indeed Trefry Vaillant (2002) suggest that individuals and organizations actually learn from expanding the frames of reference through which they view and interpret what they see and experience thus increasing their awareness of alternative ways to act. Developing a greater range of options can promote organizational flexibility, enabling adaptation to the needs of specific contexts. Insight facilitated by expanded frames of reference can be used to generate new approaches to business issues and practices. Conclusion Thus challenging existing organizational assumptions and broadening frames of reference offers a rich potential for increased effectiveness and competitive advantage. The organizational learning must go beyond exploration of differences, however. The goal is to integrate different approaches and frames of reference into new, more sophisticated approaches and organizational frames of reference. Adler (2002) argues that culturally synergistic organizations reflect the best aspects of all members cultures in their strategy, structure, and process without violating the norms of any single culture (p. 108). They utilize the naturally divergent thinking of people with different cultural backgrounds to solve problems, make decisions, and develop new approaches to products, services, and organizational processes

Hire a Copywriter and Learn How to Be a Good Manager for Your Future

Hire a Copywriter and Learn How to Be a Good Manager for Your Future Hire a Copywriter and Learn How to Be a Good Manager for Your Future College is full of experiences and opportunities to learn, but the lessons and knowledge gained from first hand experience applies most readily to real life situations you will encounter in the future. When you enter the workforce you may find that your degree will get your foot in the door, but once you are there, your experiences from real life, and the on the job training you receive will be your true teachers. In you professional career, degrees won’t matter as much as results will and showing your employers your degree will mean very little when compared to showing them your performance. Experience Counts One way students can gain real life experience with a wide range of applications, is by managing employees or managing projects. Most college students quickly learn that college is full of projects, but few see those projects and papers as opportunity to gain management skills. But this is precisely what they are, and those students who take on the task with a mindset to learn management will gain the most from these experiences. Many college students understandably view projects and papers as a means to learn more about the subject matter they are studying in or majoring in. But if the student can see these as an opportunity to learn management skills, they will optimize their learning. A team project in college may take people management skills, leadership skills, as a team needs a leader to run well, presentation skills, if the team must present, writing skills for material handed in or presented, technical skills and more. These skills are above and beyond the subject matter being learned by he student. Skills Gained from Paper Writing If a student has an important paper due, this can be viewed as a project during which a great deal of management experience can be gained. You may improve time management and organizational skills as well. Skills Gained by Managing a Freelancer for Your Project One skill you may not have thought of is the management experience you can gain by hiring a freelancer to assist with your paper. Managing a freelancer requires communication skills, as you must convey your vision of the paper to them, insure they understand the vision, and communicate expectations for deadline, writing style, subject and other details. Hiring a freelancer is similar to having a remote, temporary employee. Since they are working for you, you must direct their activities as it relates to your paper or project. You must manage time to ensure deadlines for the paper are being met, so it will be finished by the due date. You must review content and give feedback when necessary. One of the greatest management skills one can obtain is the ability to motivate their employees and give feedback in such a way that they get the performance they need. If you have positive feedback for an employee you should give that to them, and if possible, give the praise publicly. This is extremely motivating and will help you as a manager to continue getting the performance you need. If you have negative feedback, or perhaps have something that needs to be changed, you of course need to give that feedback. The way you give the feedback is very important: it must be done tactfully, clarifying expectations, and if necessary, taking responsibility for unclear communication with the employee. Clearly, you are attending university to be educated on the subject matter of your chosen major, but don’t miss out on all of the periphery experience to be attained there. At our company you can hire an academic expert for writing a custom paper of any complexity, in more than 50 disciplines.

100 Years of Solitude - Essay Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

100 Years of Solitude - Essay - Assignment Example The conditions of that region are depicted by the use of various facts of life; revolution and war, youth and old age, poverty and prosperity, love and lust – all themes are found dispersed throughout this work. People belonging to a variety of cultures reside in the South American land and it is for this reason that the influence of these cultures is evident in everyday life of the people of Macondo – the imaginary village. The story of the novel takes into account the history of almost five generations of the Buendia family and there are various points in the story where the author points towards the multicultural nature of the residents of the region. The author has at various points pointed towards the uncertainties that prevail in the South American region. Of note is the way in which the political realities of the region are presented in the novel. The novel clearly depicts how the influential classes of the South American society used assassination as a tool to control the lives of common people. The number of people who lose their lives in the process is astounding; yet the thirst of blood of the power-hungry politically influential class is never satisfied. They way in which the influential class of the society uses the slogan of ‘patriotism’ to provoke the innocents of the society, is clearly a reflection of the negative ways that are utilized to achieve political gains using the strength of masses. The picture portrayed by the author clearly demonstrates the uncertainty regarding life; people are provoked and then punished, but justice is hardly ever served. An interesting metaphor used by the author of this work is ‘ice’. Although regarded as the ‘greatest invention’ of this time by the author, ice holds symbolic significance that is beyond ordinary. Ice and its fate have been associated with the history of Macondo.

Online Auction Fraud Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Online Auction Fraud - Research Paper Example After the invention of the computer, various networks were made to ensure the computers were able to communicate with each other. As time progressed, developments were achieved in the application of the internet in business transactions but the systems in place were not in a capacity to handle all the needs. This provided loopholes for the commission of internet crimes by criminals, as they would hide the identity while undertaking their attacks thus leaving limited evidence of themselves. In mid-1990’s, the internet frauds had increased to alarming rates and researches on the causes of the rapid growth and how it could be curbed were conducted. During the period towards the end of the twentieth century, the â€Å"dot.com† era, which was manifested by increased use of internet by organizations and people, resulted in increase of internet fraud. Due to the continuous technological advancement, the internet frauds have been on the increase with the current number of fraud s being around three times those conducted in mid-1990. There are two types of internet fraud namely offline and online. In offline fraud, the criminal usually steal personal data mostly financial and use it to make transactions. In the online fraud, criminals pose as esteemed institution and thus receive personal data, which they illegally use to make transaction. Some of the commonly used internet fraud include international modem dialer, investment schemes, fake legal schemes, market manipulation; work at home schemes, pharming, phishing, auction, and online shopping. This paper seeks to give an in-depth analysis of auction internet fraud. Online Auction Fraud Due to the continuous technological development, the internet has provided a platform in which direct interaction of the buyer and the seller is not necessary for a transaction to be effectively completed. Criminal have used advantage of this where they misrepresent a product advertised for sale through the internet auction site, fail to deliver the item, or deliver an item but not as specified by the customer after receiving all the money as stipulated in their agreement with the customers. This is usually defined as online auction fraud. To avoid one being a victim of such activities, it is often advisable to undertake a business transaction with companies or individuals one is well conversant with, clearly understand the contract terms, read the privacy policy and use the most secure means of remitting personal information (Royal Canadian Mounted Police, 2006). Methods of victimization Since the internet auction process involves bidding by the interested parties, some people use this opportunity to victimize their target customers. Some of the most commonly used victimization methods include: Non-delivery- this usually occurs when one puts an item for bid whereas no such item exists. Therefore, despite the customer satisfying all the conditions set, he will never get the item (Anon, 2009.). During the transaction, the sellers get the financial details of the customer and thus may use them to exploit him/her further. Misrepresentation- this is mainly executed by altering the actual details of an item in order to win a customer. In most cases, the images are used since they can easily be manipulated. Triangulation- this is somehow technical and involves a person buying something from an online seller using stolen details.