Human Trafficking in Africa Essay

Human trafficking is not a new phenomenon. It has historically taken different forms but always new dimensions. Human trafficking is a complex phenomenon that is multi-faceted and which involves several stakeholders both at the institutional as well as commercial level. Research reveals that up to 900 000 people are trafficked every year around the globe (Adepoju 2005). Human trafficking is rated as third in terms of the biggest profit earners (at about $7 billion) after drugs and armaments for international organised crime. It is described as a global business that is demand driven because of the huge market for commercial sex and cheap labour that are tackled by policy frameworks that are either insufficient or unexercised. The number of trained people to prevent this vice is also insufficient. Traffickers understand that while they can make profit only once on drugs, the same person can be sold overt and over again earning them infinite profit. Studies also show that the primary victims of human trafficking are women and children (Adepoju et al. , 2008). According to Hagen (2004), these victims are primarily sold into forced marriage, sexual slavery or various forms of debt bondage and forced labour. Adepoju (2005) explains that poverty is the key driving force for the supply of humans for trafficking. Other forces include poor education standards as well as lack of employment that make people vulnerable to traffickers (Adepoju 2005). The human trafficking industry which is responding to the escalating demands for cheap and malleable labour as well as an increasingly expanding sex industry that has been globalised assures a ready supply to meet that demand (Altman 2003). According to statistics, developing and third world countries such as those in Asia and Africa are more prone to human trafficking and in fact report highest incidences of this vice (Coday 2003). The rate of human trafficking is said to be escalating in Africa as years pass by. South, west and Central Africa report the highest incidences of human trafficking. War torn areas in other regions such as eastern Africa are also reported to experience higher rates of child trafficking (Sita 2003). Factors that Contribute to Human Trafficking in Africa Poverty has been cited as the primary cause of human trafficking in the world. In Africa, it is worse as most people live in poverty. Poverty as a result of unemployment, poor education and war increases the vulnerability of population to the deceptions of human traffickers. According to (Fitzgibbon (2003), human traffickers target poor people with promises of better job opportunities and employment in the places they bare going to. Destitute families who are not able to provide support to their children are in fact most vulnerable to traffickers’ persuasion to sell them or hire them out (Mooney, Knox & Schacht 2008). Girls, who are perceived to be the weaker gender in Africa are the most susceptible to commercial exploitation. Because of the desperation and desire to end their situations, poor people are easily convinced by traffickers either through deception of better jobs or convincing of families to sell out their children for a certain amount of money (Fitzgibbon 2003). Poverty contributes largest to multinational trafficking as vulnerable persons are promised of greater things in European and Asian (particularly the Middle East) countries. Gender discrimination is also widespread in Africa and is one of the factors contributing to the high rates of human trafficking in the region. It denies women of their rights making them defenceless against such vices (Truong 2006). Gender discrimination is also characterised by attitudes that perceive women and girls to be inferior and weak encouraging their objectification (Masika 2002). This objectification and tolerance of violence against women as a result of gender discrimination support the existence and continued trafficking practices that deliver women and girls into in atrocious working conditions (Truong 2006) Africa also happens to be one of the most affected regions by the effects of HIV AIDS and in particular orphanage. AIDS has been identified as one of the factors that contribute to the escalating human trafficking in Africa mainly because of family disintegration it causes through death (Kristof 2000). Millions of African children have been orphaned by AIDS and left to live in poverty, fending for themselves with no one to look after them. Such children are very vulnerable to traffickers who deceive them with promises of better lives. In their innocence and desperation, orphaned children end up being victims of human trafficking trade (Beeks & Amir 2006). Child prostitution and normal prostitution as a result of poverty and orphanage is also prevalent in Africa (O’Connell & Sanchez 1996) Such women are more prone to emotional intimidation which makes them vulnerable and easily moved into the hands of traffickers (Kristof 2000). Such individuals are often trafficked for sexual exploitation abroad. Armed conflicts are also very common in most African countries. In addition to destroying livelihoods, armed conflicts destroy national economies and bring about mass population movements. The heightened insecurity during wars makes women and children more vulnerable and promotes dramatic survival tactics including prostitution (Martens et al. , 2003). During these tomes, women and children are often abducted into armed factions where children are used as armed soldiers and the women are sexually exploited (usually raped) (DeStefano 2007). These conflicts increase the number of orphans and widows. One of the endemic characteristics of armed conflicts is intensified poverty for survivors, particularly orphans, widows and those families that are headed by females. This increases the vulnerability of these groups to traffickers. Migration of people as a response to insecurity and armed conflict results creation of large refugee populations which expose the most vulnerable groups (Hollenbach 2008). African countries have also remained indifferent and lack domestic commitment to protection of those vulnerable to trafficking through awareness, legislation, information and training of the responsible authorities to provide the protection (Sita 2003). Most laws on human trafficking are lenient. Penalties for those found guilty of trafficking humans are not severe. In some countries such as Kenya, the maximum sentence one gets if found guilty of child trafficking is 15 years and sometimes these offenders are set free because of corruption that manifests itself in the region. It should be noted that human trafficking is a very lucrative business with estimated annual profits of up to $ 10 billion (Adepoju 2005). Such individuals get away freely in countries with corrupt systems which most in Africa unfortunately are. Most African countries have weak state structures which are as a result of the turmoil of transitional economies (Hart, 2009). Such structures encourage an environment that favours predatory criminal groups/organisations. Such economies are usually dominated by parallel structures that thrive through intimidation and fear which replace state security (Ciment & Shanty 2008). The fact that these networks are widespread and the perception that they have the ability to get even with victims and their families strengthens their underground nature making investigation difficult because of lack of evidence. Purpose of Human Trafficking People are trafficking for various purposes. Sexual exploitation is one of the main reasons as to why women and female children are trafficked. Other purposes include underpaid and exploitative forced labour in the manufacturing, agricultural, construction and mining industries (Adepoju 2005). Exploitative domestic labour is another reason. It has also been established that children and particularly infants are trafficked for organ harvesting. Strategies used Though the profiles of victims and traffickers vary, the tactics used to deceive, recruit, transport and later exploit the trafficked persons are similar. Victims are more often than not tempted (promised) plausible promises of income, employment and educational opportunities, and sometimes shelter or care within adoptive families in the countries they are being transported to (Marta 2008). Traffickers exploit income and opportunity disparities, poverty and effects of armed conflicts within the region. Case Studies South Africa has been identified as one of the African countries where human trafficking particularly of women and children is most common (Sita 2003). The country is argued to have a large market for the services of trafficked people both from regional as well as extra-regional locations (Cross & Gelderblom 2006). Armed conflict and related dislocation, food insecurity, political and economic turmoil, poor education and lack of employment opportunities, as well as the plight of affliction of the AIDS pestilence make the country a magnet that attracts human migration from all over the continent. Organised crime groups, refugee populations and local traffickers exploit this vulnerable population for agricultural and industrial labour, organ harvesting and sex industry (UNEP 2007). South Africa acts as a transit as well as source country for international market in human trafficking. As a transit hub, South Africa happens to offer direct flights to Asia and Europe. The escalating growth of human trafficking from Africa to the Middle East and Europe implies that South Africa along with other several African countries are already feeding multinational business. It has also been established that internal trafficking also does exist within the continent and the country (Pommerin 2009). According to a study conducted by IOM report (2003), nine distinct patterns of human trafficking have been identified in South Africa. They include trafficking of; women from countries that produce refugees to South Africa (SA), children from Lesotho to Eastern Free State of SA, women and girls from Mozambique to brothels in Kwa Zulu Natal and Gauteng, women from Malawi to SA itself overland and through it to Northern Europe, children (both girls and boys) from Malawi through SA to Northern Europe, women from China, Thailand and Eastern Europe to SA. There are certain factors that contribute to human trafficking in South Africa. According to reports, about 245, 000 children are being exploited for labour including commercial sex (prostitution) making them exposed and vulnerable to exploitation and deception of human traffickers. It is approximated that South Africa has at least 30, 000 children working as prostitutes. Once involved in such an environment, children are easily emotionally intimidated and physically pushed and trapped into trafficking. South Africa also happens to be the regional powerhouse, with a GDP that is almost four times greater than most its neighbours and representing approximately 25% of the entire continent’s GDP. The country is aenjoying a relatively constant economic growth making it an attractive destination for those seeking greener pastures in the region. Traditional migration patterns of labour from the neighbouring countries, the habit of children being sent to their relatives who are better situated in the country by their relatives to be raised and unregulated cross border regulations due to casual border procedures enhance human trafficking (Richards 2004). The capacity of South Africa’s security forces is also challenged by the expensive sea state borders (Pommerin 2009). Unemployment has also increased in the country as a result of retrenchment of migrant labourers from South Africa’s farms and mines in the recent past. This has increased poverty and desperation making the populations vulnerable to traffickers’ deception. Despite the country’s overall economic growth, poverty still is high in both rural and urban areas particularly amongst women and children and is the primary cause of trafficking of these groups. Influx of refugees is one of the practical effects of armed conflict in South Africa’s neighbouring states and extra-regional states. According to studies, refugees are another group that is vulnerable to trafficking because of their desperate situations. In spite of South Africa having a progressive constitution assures gender equality and protection of human rights, gender discrimination has not stopped making women susceptible to traffickers. For South Africa, the apartheid regime legacy is playing a great part in encouraging human trafficking and has to be deconstructed for this trade to stop. Just like most countries, South Africa is yet put in place legislation and policy that will ensure a continued established of a system that will comply with international norms and standards and reinforce responses that are locally and culturally appropriate. The country is however making efforts to curb this internationally prohibited trade. South Africa continues to participate in congresses and campaigns against human and child trafficking such as the First World Congress against Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in Stockholm in 1996. The country has also participated in the Terres des Hommes International Campaign against Child Trafficking which was launched in the year 2001 under Graca Machel and Desmond Tutu’s patronage. Subsequent to these events, several programmes such as social reintegration, protection, rehabilitation and awareness-building have been established. In spite of the government’s participation and efforts, human trafficking still remains a crucial problem in the country. According to Skinner (2010), prevention of this vice requires an integrated and multi-sectoral strategy that deals with migration and trafficking from an overall national as well as development policy perspective (Morehouse 2009). This author suggests exploration of an integrated approach to fighting trafficking through rights-based and gender-sensitive approaches to give livelihoods for women needs. According to him, it is poverty that drives the manifestation of human trafficking and elimination of poverty will help combat the vice. Other countries also report their share of human trafficking. In Eastern Africa, armed conflict between the government and the rebels of the LRA (Lord’s Resistance Army) has resulted to abduction of thousands of women and children by the rebels. Uganda is argued to be the supplier of trafficked children in the children. These children end up being recruited into rebel ranks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan (other areas experiencing armed conflicts). In West and Central Africa, six forms of child trafficking have been identified. They include abduction, giving poor parents money with the promise that their children will be well taken care of, bonded placement of children as repayment for debt, payment for a token sum for a certain duration, or as gift items, enrolment of the child by the parents for a fee by an agent for some work, usually domestic and deception of parents that they are enrolling their children for school, training or trade (Coluccello & Massey 2007).. Ghana, Burkinafaso, Benin, Togo and Mauritania are the main sources of child labour in the region. These are taken to Gabon, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Congo and Equatorial Guinea as domestic workers. Togolese girls are often trafficked into domestic markets while the boys are trafficked into agricultural work. In this region, poverty and ignorance played the greatest role as parents are either deceived that they are enrolling their children to school or paid some amount to hire their children out (. A considerable amount of Ghanaian women and children are often trafficked in the neighbouring countries for prostitution (Anarfi 1998). Most women in this region are trafficked to Europe where they are forced into prostitution. Italy, Spain, France, Germany, The UK, Sweden, UAE and Saudi Arabia are particularly known as destinations for trafficking women for prostitution and pornography (Anarfi 1998). Senegal is reported to be both a source as well as transit country for trafficking of women to South Africa, the Gulf States and Europe for prostitution. It is also a reported to be a destination country for children trafficked from Guinea Conakry and Mali. Women from Liberia, a war-torn country are forced to work as prostitutes in Mali while others are trafficked to Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and France. Mali is also reported to be a transit country for trafficking women from African Anglophone countries to Europe. Most of these women end up working in brothels abroad.

Towards an Understanding of Human Resource Management

Aim: With today’s rapid economic development, human resource is the only major success in continuing operations. In fact, my parents are engaged in furniture retail industry in south of China, Guangzhou. In the company’s daily operations, we found a lot of issues about human resource management. Employee’s demission and training, and the negative attitude become major obstacles in the way of our company’s development. Through HRM study, I want to understand what factors affect staff movement behavior and loyalty to the company, in order to deal with the staff situation in the company more efficiently. Method: In this thesis, the case study approach was used. Case study research is suitable for explanatory, descriptive and exploratory. Our research chooses two in-depth case studies that base on the interviews with human resource managers. The information that we collect is from qualitative interviews. Through loyalty and movement theory, to identify which factors are affecting staff movement behavior and loyalty to company, as well as analyze how to solute the issue in my family company. Result & Conclusions: After discussion and analysis, the study found: high wages is not the only way to retain employees. Money as reward can cost a lot, and it’s impersonal. Workplace, leadership style, enterprise potential, training opportunity and promotion space also can affect employee loyalty. According to Motivator-Hygiene Theory, to establish motivation system, exciting staff’s enthusiasm for the work. Let staff realize that the successes of the company are directly connected to their performances; staff have responsibility for company’s successes. This is a powerful way to keep employee motivated. For company development of long standing, organization should command constantly more new technology. Staff as the work of actors, to learn more work skills is essential. Employees and the company’s desire is the same. Companies focus on their own development, but also to enhance staff capacity. For development of the company, it should give staff more training and promotion opportunities. Suggestions for future research: It has to note that the limitation of this study is the small number and the limited scope of interviewees. Contribution of the thesis: In this study, I mainly find the solutions that the issues in my family company. After discussion and analysis, I am cognizant of the long-term relationship between staff and organization is important for company development. The rewards for the employee are not just money, but also can be other. That effect and help my family firm staff management.

Alternative to Brainstorming

The NGT is a technique that was developed by Delbecq and VandeVen. It is used for group brainstorming with the intent to get everyone involved by contributing their feedback. It is structured to help gain different viewpoints from several people for a particular topic or issue. The NGT was designed with the purpose of causing all members of the group to be involved in the discussion with one person having single dominance. It allows those individuals who are perhaps more soft spoken an opportunity to have a vocal voice in the discussion. It is also helpful to use when there are new team members who perhaps have yet gained the comfortability for sharing within the group. The NGT should help to keep the discussion flow balanced for all the topics or ideas. It should also help guide the discussion in such a way that limits the possibility of argumentive outbreaks. The NGT should produce a good mixture of quality ideas and help everyone to feel the involvement of working together as a group. The article, Nominal Group Technique: An Alternative to Brainstorming, lists some basic steps to follow when using this technique. The steps are (1) Individuals should be groups by five or six people.

LLC manager and LLC member Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

LLC manager and LLC member - Research Paper Example If a LLC is managed by a manager the decision making responsibility falls in the hand of the individual who has been elected by the members as a manager. The members can choose a manager from within the group of the members of the company or they can even opt for an individual who is not a member of the company. Individuals who are elected as managers for an LLC are responsible to act and make decisions carefully and present utmost loyalty, these duties of a manager of LLC are recognized as fiduciary duties and these duties are similar to the duties that are performed by corporate directors. Members within an LLC can determine the voting policy and the voting rights of the members of the company, according to ULLCA, the voting rights of the members is dependant on their investment in the company and voting policy states that a decision can be made with the aid of the majority votes (Batman, 2011,

Exam qusetion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Exam qusetion - Essay Example Laws in common law however can be repealed and amended by parliament. Duress is a defence against all crimes with the exception of murder and attempted murder. The prevailing circumstances matter and determine when duress can be used to exonerate one of their wrongdoings. The threat must: be to death or serious injury, be directed against the defendant or his immediate family or someone close to him, neither emanate from actions the defendant voluntarily did nor circumstances that the defendant voluntarily put himself in and inescapable by any reasonable means. The crime against which one seeks to use duress as a defence must be a directly caused by the threats to the person. The above criteria present a lot of problems to the defence of duress. First is the subjective nature of most of the criteria. The perception of the actor is key to the actions they commit and what accounts as serious injury to one person may not be so to another. Levels of fortitude, self-sacrifice, altruism and perception of danger vary from individual to individual and have no reasonable measure or an objective benchmark. The requirement that the threat be of serious injury is of essentially ambiguous and thus may be valid or invalid depending on the individual under duress. This ambiguity and subjectivity also apply most of the other criteria and thus denying the defence of duress to any and all individuals without appealing to the prevailing circumstances is clearly unfair. The courts do not recognise duress if the court determines that the harm done is superior to the perception of harm to be caused by threats and this is tested in two ways; questioning whether the defendant acted as they did because they honestly believed the harm of the threat to be serious and questioning whether a reasonable person of typical courage and having similar characteristics to the defendant would have acted in the same manner. Clearly these two criteria do not

Anything Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 7

Anything - Essay Example I could feel that I was no longer active. I felt lethargic and sluggish all the time. I was most of the time feeling sleepy during classes and while doing homework. I would quickly lose my breath after some walk. My parents got very much concerned, and took me to a physician, who referred me to a nutritionist after getting to know my eating habits. The nutritionist was an angel in disguise, who convinced me that my poor eating habits, too much consumption of junk food, and scarcity of healthy food in my diet, led my weight to increase. He told me that obesity was a growing concern, which brought with it a lot of diseases. I followed his advice and food charts, and started including healthy food in my diet. Leaving all the pizzas, burgers, and cakes was the hardest task for me in the world. But, I was determined to gain back my health; and, now, after two years of my decision, I have been able to shed my extra pounds, and feel quite active all the

Spending city money on a public library Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Spending city money on a public library - Essay Example It brings people and ideas together. The librarians are as well an important element as they educate people on how to get access to information (Quick et al. 81). A library will offer access to everyone regardless, unlike a club that will only allow certain age bracket or will be accessed by revelers only. A library is an investment in the future of the society because the libraries will offer the programs that can meet the economic needs of a community (Quick et al.67). Thus, it is important for combating the economic downturn. They provide invaluable resources for those seeking jobs as most people can utilize the library to access the internet. Therefore, it helps bridging the gap between the haves and have-nots in matters internet access (Quick et al. 53). This is a very effective service to invest in for public consumption providing positive returns on the investments. Investing in a library is investing in generations of a people. This is because their cognitive ability will be enhanced by the learning they get from this facility. And not to mention, education is power. How successful can a society be with this access to information? It is the best place to invest public

Demographic transition model Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Demographic transition model - Essay Example This paper focuses on demographic transition model and global food production and distribution for a growing human population to meet global food security goals. According to Wilson (2007, p. 33), the demographic transition model "Is a generalized model that describes how birth rates and death rates of human populations change over time". Starr, Evers and Starr (2014) conversely posits that demographic factors fluctuate such that developed nations are exemplified by low birth rates, low numbers of infant deaths, as well as a high life expectancy. These demographic factors are inverse in developing countries. In this regard, the demographic transition model, as spelt out by Wilson (2007), was developed by demographers from surveillance and scrutiny of researched and tested variations of birth and death rates of a number of countries over a span of two hundred years. As underscored by Wilson (2007), demographic transition model consist of four stages. The initial stage is referred to as high stationary stage and is characterized by elevated birth and death rates. At this stage, Wilson (2007) asserts that the population is generally low. High death rate at this stage is as a result of ill health, food shortage or deprivation, and warfare. Wilson (2007) further notes that birth rate at this initial stage is fairly even and therefore an increase or decrease of population is delineate by varying death rate. The second stage as outlined by Wilson (2007) is referred to as early expanding stage. This stage is characterized by an increase in population as a result of receding death rate coupled by a fairly elevated birth rate. The receding death rate in the second stage is contributed by improved food security and improved public health. Late expanding stage is the third step of the model. As elucidated by Wilson (2007), this phase is characterized by a n even and low death rate together with a decreased birth

Propaganda in World War I and why the US entered the war Essay

Propaganda in World War I and why the US entered the war - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the Great War (World War I) that erupted in 1914 pitted the allied powers (Great Britain, France, Russia against the central powers (Germany, Austria, Turkey). These European powers often engaged in fights for status and territory thus the Great War was no exception except that it attracted the whole world into the conflict. Not even the United States which had vowed to maintain its isolationist or non-interventionist policy was spared. Of most importance is that the US depended much on trade from both powers with trade from allied forces accounting for more than $ 800 million and from central powers $170 million. Further, trade from Britain and France depended on loans from American banks. No wonder the US was unable to sustain its to a non-interventionist stance. This was bound to be difficult for US thus the formation of the Creel committee to devise propaganda that would shape public opinion towards war support. There are various f actors that led the US to enter the war. First, it was the economic ties with Europe. The war would have jeopardized US trade thus it was reasonable to intervene. Secondly, it is the strong ethnic ties of US to the old world. America comprised of many immigrants from war torn areas hence it was bound to get involved in the war. Furthermore, President Wilson always held great admiration for British form of government hence sympathetic to its plight. Another important reason is that US was caught in the middle of commercial warfare with Britain blockade on one side and German blockade on the other.

Down the River Essay Example for Free

Down the River Essay Edward Abbeys essay Down the River reveals his strong belief that the existence of life revolves around nature itself. Abbey conveys these views through syntax, imagery, and his choice of structure. Abbey’s varying detail and syntax in the first half of the passage conveys an amazement toward nature. He states while gazing at the lion that there was a â€Å"mutual curiosity: [he] felt more wonder than fear†. His unexpected reaction to the mountain lion when they shared â€Å"mutual curiosity† implies that man is not alone in this journey towards knowledge, and there is a deep connection between man and nature. He varies the syntax from short to complex sentences with distinct differences in clauses. He states that later on they â€Å"see no mountain lions,† and the following sentence in a series presents all of the other wildlife that has been observed in great detail instead of the lion. He describes these plants and animals with enthusiasm and also calls Aravaipa â€Å"full of life† and extremely â€Å"beautiful†. The impression is that even though the lion that drew the explorer in is nowhere to be seen, there is still a vast amount of beauty in the desert. The structure is meant to contrast the two types of nature, urban nature and nature in Aravaipa. We see an immediate switch in tone when Abby says, â€Å"We stumble homeward over the stones, and through the anklebone-chilling water. † Abbey displays a hint of bitterness towards his home that is so bad even the journey to get there is torturous. He discusses the stars and how they seem to fade when he leaving the desert, as if the world he is used to has no stars, no beauty, no life. Abby then states that the memories of the beautiful desert are enough to keep him satisfied for days to survive the â€Å"urban life†. Nature is so rich in details and relationships and so wonderful and mysterious that it is impossible to completely understand it. This incomprehensibility can provide an unlimited source of learning that will eventually redeem us from a lifeless urban existence.

Application White-listing With Bit9 Parity

Application White-listing With Bit9 Parity K.PADMAVATHI I. Introduction Antivirus is a requirement for a host of compliance standards and is championed to be a critical component for any security baseline (PCI-DSS 3.0-5.1). A recent google search for â€Å"Cyber Security Breaches† in Google News shows 16,700 results in Google News. Even NIST has stated that that AV is not an adequate control. The basis for this argument is that AV, even with heuristics, looks for methods or signatures that are known to the specific AV vendor. Bit9 Parity goes a step further and restricts the execution of any executable or applications to those only allowed by the product (Bit9 Datasheet, 2013). Parity has a host of benefits as well as some significant drawbacks, but with proper and careful implementation, a deployment of Parity can be successful. Parity has multiple methods to manage and control an environment. Parity is deployed with a server, database and console to control and manage Parity Agents. The deployed agents are a package of executables and configurat ion files that contain a kernel module that sits on the hardware layer and proxies the raw system calls from the user layer to those resources. For this reason it makes manipulation of the agent from the user layer very difficult. There is also a management console to manipulate the server that controls all agents on endpoints. II. Pre-Deployment During pre-deployment, the first thing that must be decided is where it will be deployed. Bit9 would recommend that the product be deployed on all systems in an environment. However, this is not feasible as the cost of the product and the complexity of most environments makes 100% immediate deployment difficult. Parity takes a default deny approach (Bit9 Data Sheet, 2014). This is a good method for protection but can make deployments difficult. To deal with this situation it is a good idea to deploy the product in homogenous environments first. Therefore, in planning deployment it is best to identify and group environments by their similarity and their levels of criticality. The most critical could be where the protection needs to go first. However an additional risk of deploying the product in critical environments is that by description they are critical to the business. So the product must deployed with care, proper planning and testing. III. To Protect the Environment (Client-side) Protection and prevention is absolutely ideal when it comes to deployment of Parity. When working with dynamic and non-homogenous environments the product should be deployed in this mindset. An excellent environment for deploying to protect would be a desktop or laptop (client side) environment. IV. To Control the Environment In order to protect an environment administrators and security personnel must control andunderstand their environment. However methods of deployment can differ with these underlying goals in mind. Deploying to control should be applied in specific environments that have rigorous change control and a low level of change. This would be server environments or other systems that are running on end-of life operating systems, such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, as well as some Point of Sale Systems (POS). V. Deployment After deciding what environment to start, it is time to build out the Parity Server and console. According to the Bit9 installation guide, the server should have a SQL server available or a new SQL server database, either 2005 or 2008 deployed and configured prior to installation. (Parity 6.0 Deployment Guide, 2013) The server will also need .net framework 3.5 and a host of other web application Microsoft requirements. All should be included with a current version of Server 2008. Prior to installation ensure that all servers meet local hardening procedures. VI. Configuration After the server has been installed, it should be simple to browse to the https://localhost which will direct to the Parity console if logging on locally. Browsing from another system to https://server name which will direct the administrator to the Parity console. The default credentials should be username admin and password admin. As always, best practices, change immediately. VII. Bit9 Knowledge Base Another critical component is the Bit9 knowledgebase. The Bit9 knowledgebase is one of the single largest collection of known good executables available commercially. This will require outbound connectivity to the Bit9 knowledgebase servers on port 443 from the Parity server. It will also require a license from Bit9 knowledgebase. There is an open API to query the data through a restful API. (Script attached – Appendix B) The knowledgebase can be configured in the Administration tab > Licensing >Parity Knowledge Activation. VIII. Other System Administration On the system administration tab there are a host of other setup actions that can be accomplished on this tab as well. On the mail tab, the SMTP settings for alerts can be configured to send alerts for status of systems. The advanced options has the ability to back-up the database, configure automated updates, log out times for the parity console, file uploads configuration, old computer cleanup, software rule completion, and certificate options. Most of these options are not of much concern, however the cleaning up of old agents should be configured. IX. Policy Configuration Designing the policies in Parity is absolutely critical to having a successful deployment. The default policies that come with the product are a good place to start. â€Å"Default Policy† which is designed for the agents to go to once the agent is initially installed. The â€Å"Local Approval Policy† which is designed to approve any running executables on the system. The â€Å"Template Policy† which is designed to be copied and configured for new policies. Initially four new policies need to be created for management of agents. â€Å"Lockdown Policy† must be created to replace the Default Policy and to be the final stop for agents during configuration. â€Å"Lockdown Reporting† policy which will be configured on systems to report as if they were in lockdown without actually blocking, and a â€Å"Monitoring Policy† to start hashing and collecting execution information on systems. â€Å"Disabled Policy† should also be created to for the installation of the agents, and removal of the agents if necessary. X. Deploying Agents After all the agent configuration policies have been created and some basic software rules like the .net software rule, it is time to start deploying agents. The agents can be downloaded from https://parityserver/hostpkg/. It is best to start with an agent disabled policy.Installing the agent can be done on all systems through multiple methods, GPO, software packaging and through scripting. Scripting is beneficial, because it can be scheduled and the output can be collected for error checking. See appendix B for an example installation script. Installing the agents is a slow process which requires getting a list of all devices, verifying in the Parity Console the assets are available and the communication level of the agent. Something to consider is that any Windows version after Server 2008 and Windows 7 should deploy the agents without the need for a reboot. However older versions will require a reboot. If the agents are not communicating with the Parity Server ensure that agents can reach the server on TCP port 41002 or reboot the system if necessary. XI. Locking Down the Agents After ensuring that all agents are deployed it is time to start locking down agents. This can be accomplished by selectively moving agents into the â€Å"Monitoring Policy†. This step in the installation process has the most impact on the system therefore it is best to move agents into this policy during times of less usage and only move a few agents at a time. XII. Policies and Procedures Before moving any systems into lockdown (other than testing systems) it is time to ensure there is a process for addressing blocked executables that users/administrators need to run on the systems. It is likely that any organization that is going to deploy Parity will have methods and processes for IT workflow. This is an ideal method for dealing with end user issues with Parity blocks of potentially useful and needed executables. This should be communicated with the user population to ensure that users know where to go in case they have Parity block. XIII. Operational Uses for Parity There are many other uses for Parity other than just to protect the environment. It is an excellent source of information showing exactly what is running in an environment. By querying the data in Parity, a Security Analyst could research to find if a downloaded malicious file actually reached the endpoint system or not. An Analyst could also upload a hash from doing analysis on another system to Parity to block across the install base. The server actually has a very simple SOAP API utilizing JSON that can be called very simply from web posts. XIV. Conclusion When evaluating any technology technologist and security practitioners should carefully analyze with due care the technologies, especially those that will require employee time and energy as well as significant capital expenditure. Bit9’s Parity will take significant time, funds, and energy to deploy. It will take a concerted effort from senior leadership to decide on the product and then organizational push to deploy it. The approach that Application-White listing takes is a simple one, trust only what is known and all other executables and binaries are not trusted and are not allowed to run. If an organization believes that they may be targeted by an advanced actor then the advanced protection provided by an approach like Application-White listing should be evaluated. The decision is a risk decision, the protections Parity offers are significant. If deployed properly, malware will not be able to gain a persistence on a network, as well a huge number of other attacks will be mitigated. If an organization deems that they need the level of security, the costs and energy that Parity takes to deploy are well worth the efforts.

Impact of Fire on the Geology of Soils Essay -- Wildfires and Soil Geo

Fires are an important and healthy process in many ecosystems. The lack of fires can cause new plant communities to invade an area . The regular occurrence of fires can keep one plant community dominate, like oak savannas. Fires can leave burnt sticks the size of trees and clumps of charcoal where bunch grass use to grow, but not for long. An area that was burned will re-grow, grasslands will be green the next growing season and forests will typically show new growth soon after. Somewhere in the process of a fire the soil it travels over is effected. Alterations happen immediately after a fire passes over a soil and can continue years after a fire has gone. Soils are impacted in two main ways; by the entering of nutrients form the brunt organic matter (living vegetation and by the litter on the surface of the soil) and the heating of the soil and the nutrients already present in the soil. The greater the duration and intensity of the fire will influence the amount of alteration of th e soil. A prescribed burn is usually less intense than a wildfire. Prescribed burns are put on when conditions are right, meaning that the area is not too dry or too large. Wildfires on the other hand can start at any time and burn vast areas and last for days out of control. One reason wildfires usually are more intense than prescribed burns is because of the fire suppression that lasted most of this century allowed large amounts of fuel to pile up waiting to be burned. Vegetation in these areas will grow back regardless, but it is the soils that have a harder time recovering from the intense heat. One other difference to consider when looking at the types of fires, is a forest fire verses a grassland fire. Forest fires usually last longer and h... ... A., 1989, Effect of simulated forest fire on the availability of N and P in Mediterranean soils: Plant Soil. v. 120, p. 57-63. Mroz, G. D., Jurgensen, M. F., Harvey, A. E., and Larsen, M. J., 1980, Effects of fire on nitrogen in forest floor horizons: Soil Science Society of America Journal, v. 44, p. 395-400. Prieto-Fernandez, A., Villar, M. C., Carballas, M. and Carballas, T., 1993, Short-term effects of a wildfire on the nitrogen status and its mineralization kinetics in an Atlantic forest soil: Soil Biology and Biochemistry, v. 25, p. 1657-1664. Ulery, A. L. and Graham, R. C., 1993, Forest fire effects on soil color and texture: Soil Science Society of America Journal, v. 57, p. 135-140. Ulery, A. L., Graham, R.C. and Bowen, L. H., 1996, Forest fire effects on phyllosilicates in California: Soil Science Society of America Journal, v. 60, p. 309-315.

The Hydrogen Bomb :: World War II History

The Hydrogen Bomb Thesis Statement The hydrogen bomb is a nuclear weapon in which light atomic nuclei of hydrogen are joined together in an uncontrolled nuclear fusion reaction to release tremendous amounts of energy. The hydrogen bomb is about a thousand times as powerful as the atomic bomb, which produces a nuclear fission explosion about a million times more powerful than comparably sized bombs using conventional high explosives such as TNT. The Hydrogen Bomb The Atomic Bomb Was A Essential First Step toward the Development of the Hydrogen Bomb, Before the atomic bomb was developed by the united states during World War II, there was no way to produce the extreme amounts of heat needed to initiate the fusion reaction of the hydrogen bomb. Even after World War II, the hydrogen bomb faced many political and technical obstacles. The U.S. government gave priority to perfecting and stockpiling atomic bombs, and scientist discovered that initiating a fusion reaction was more than simply placing a container of hydrogen near a fission trigger. Tension to develop the hydrogen bomb increased in the United States after the Soviet Union set off its first atomic bomb in August 1949. The Military, the joint congressional committee on Atomic Energy, and several noted physicists, including Edward Teller And Ernest Lawrence, called for creation of a so-called super bomb, but the General Advisory of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), chaired by J. Robert Oppenheimer, in agreement recommended that the bomb should not be developed, because of the technical difficulties involved, the need to enlarge the Atomic Bomb reserve, and because of moral considerations. A Majority of the AEC supported this decision and passed their recommendation on to President Harry S. Truman. A National Security Council report recommend otherwise, however and at the end of January 1950, Truman ordered that the United States should investigate the possibility of producing hydrogen bombs. Edward Teller was placed in charge of the investigation. The decision to move ahead with the Hydrogen bomb development was made in response to U.S. perceptions that the USSR was close to producing its own Hydrogen Bomb. Thermonuclear devices were tested was to begin in 1952, and by 1954, both the United States And The USSR have achieved Hydrogen Bomb capability. Since That Year each side has developed nuclear arsenals that are almost entirely composed of fusion weapons, rather than fission weapons. They have reached a strategic condition that promises total destruction.

Physical Inactivity Essay -- Health, Ageing, Nursing Home

Introduction and purpose Ageing is a common process in life. With ageing, functional capabilities deteriorate and lead to major risk in health. So for older people, keeping them physically active is an important role in their healthy ageing. This will help them to maintain their independence and value their life as long as they live. Engaging in physical activity will reduce the risk of chronic conditions and improve the state of mind and well being. Being physically active by participating in regular physical activities has a major health advantage which has been well documented. Despite the advantage of day to day physical activity a large number of older people go ahead with their inactive way of life. This study was conducted in older people who live in LTC about their barriers in performing the physical activity. In 2007, WHO urged the researchers to conduct a study on the reasons of physical inactivity in older adults. This study was able to improve patient outcomes due to the fact that older people a re aware of the importance of keeping themselves active and having a meaningful, healthy ageing life. Review of the literature The author has reviewed the previous studies on the barriers of regular physical activity in the community living older people (Jones and Nies 1996, Conn 1998, Heesch et al 2003, Lin et.al 2007). But the review shows that little study was done among older adults living in LTC about the barriers they face in their physical activity. The areas of nursing practices are to identify the barriers in older people that keep them away from their physical activity. Developing a plan of care and interventions depend on the individual problems. Study Design Qualitative exploratory design is used in this study... ...here are barriers among older adults who stays in LTC centers .The barriers are Physical health problems and physical frailty, Fear of resultant injury or falling, past sedentary lifestyle, insufficient understanding about physical activity and environmental restrictions. Health care providers have a major role in influencing these older adults to take up a regular physical activity. This study suggests that health care providers need to intervene these barriers to develop and maintain physical activity. Also it is important to provide supportive surroundings. Change in behavior cannot occur in overnight, so ongoing physical activity practice is needed. For most of the older residents the LTC becomes the permanent homes, so the health care provider needs to develop a continuous relationship with these residents. These findings contributed to the nursing knowledge.

How Did Men Deal with the Stress of World War II Essay

The iconic â€Å"thousand-yard stare†, a far-off, unfocused gaze characteristic of soldiers who had succumbed to the trauma of war by dissociating from it, emerged with its name through the chilling photos of soldiers who were overtaken by these symptoms in the wake of World War II. It’s no surprise that war takes a toll on the psyche of all those affected by it. Given the brutality and scope of World War II, which began only 21 years after World War II (a war that had already ravaged the landscape and people of Europe leaving high estimates of the death toll at 65 million deaths), civilians and soldiers alike were engulfed in total war. As Hitler and the Nazis’ ideology was based on â€Å"A War of Extermination† fueled by a racial ideology that sought for the ethnic cleansing and complete reengineering of the social population of Europe, the massive amount of Soviet soldiers that perished as they were thrown wave after wave in order to slow the Nazi war machine, and the general cruelty that was apparent in this war, soldiers upon soldiers grew appalled by the nature of the war. As one soldier confesses in The Italian Job, â€Å"After three months, it was demoralizing†¦ it was every night, every night everybody was hunting Germans, everybody was out to kill anybody†¦ we was insane†¦ We did become like animals in the end†¦ Yes, just like rats†¦ It was far worse than the desert. You were stuck in the same place. You had nowhere to go. You didn’t get no rest, like in the desert. No sleep†¦ You never expected to see the end of it. You just forgot why you were there† (Addison 208). Often times, the amount of effort put into it and the lives sacrificed seemed to far outweigh the benefits reaped from both; Gottlob Herbert Bidderman, a German soldier that was present on the Eastern Front reflected on â€Å"the insignificance of twelve kilometers: twelve kilometers—in an endless land, where unbroken fields stretched to the horizon before us from sunrise to sunset. I wondered how many more twelve-kilometer battles lay ahead of us during our march away from the setting sun† (Bidderman 23). However, like anything that people are overexposed to, these men slowly grew accustomed to and desensitized to the trocities and horrors of the war. Human beings are naturally adaptive beings and history has shown time and time again that they do what is needed in order to survive. It would be simplistic to classify each of the nations and their armies as being uniform in their coping with the war – due to the specific nature of some of the problems and solutions that emerged from belonging to that particular nation (such as the Soviets reveling in their loyalty and the cult-like worship of Stalin and the Nazis racial ideology being one that ensured in their mind their victory), but many men, regardless of their affiliation, handled the war similarly. Some treated the time on these fronts as a long extended workday, disassociating from the acts they committed and the sights they witnessed as simply being a part of a job. Others turned to their families away from home – brothers and sisters, who through their common experiences, pains, and moments of hope, stood together in solidarity. Others turned to the bottom of a bottle to ease the pain; while others turned instead upwards to a higher power, or at the very least began to frequent religious services. Those who were not willing to look quite so loftily turned to their superiors and leaders for guidance and bravery; while in the case of the Soviet soldiers, glanced fearfully backwards as the higher-ups pushed them forward to their death. Far away from home and under harsh conditions, food and other chanced upon provisions and commodities would often serve as a best to moral. Due to the sheer breadth of stress embodied in being a soldier in any front during WWII, soldiers dealt with the immense strain in varying ways in order to keep intact their humanity, or at the very least, keep their sanity so that they could ensure their survival. There is a perception held by many idealistic, young men that war is a somewhat akin to a noble crusade. However, there is the reality is much more analogous, to as one German soldier put it â€Å"this is ten times worse than hell† (Grossman 151). A scene from the Italian Job details this hell: â€Å"some (too many, far too many) were carried in dying, with gross combinations of shattered limbs, protrusions of intestines and brain from great holes in their poor frames torn by 880millimetre shells, mortars and anti-personnel bombs. Some lay quiet and still, with legs drawn up – penetrating wounds of the abdomen. Some were carried in sitting up on the stretcher, gasping and coughing, shot through the lungs †¦ All were exhausted after being under continuous fire, and after lying in the mud for hours and days† (Addison 208). As a result, as these idealistic notions were lost, many turned to viewing the entire ordeal as a job. Having suffered through the war for some time, one soldier remarked, â€Å"You’re fighting for the skin in the line. When I was enlisted I was patriotic as hell. There’s no patriotism in the line. A boy up there 60 days in the line is in danger every minute. He ain’t fighting for patriotism† (Addison 210). Another soldier enjoyed fighting at dawn as he felt that it was almost as if he was heading off to work at the factory. Rather than consciously thinking of all of the horrors that they were witnessing on a daily basis and focusing on the fact that they could die at any moment, the concept of just doing a job provided a blanket under which these men sought to maintain control of their humanity by separating their psyches from the appalling state of being they were in. A man in an earlier war who was quoted in Addison’s book stated that â€Å"whatever its size a man’s world was his section—at most, his platoon; all that mattered to him was the one little boatload of castaways with whom he was marooned on a desert island making shift to keep off the weather and any sudden attacks by wild beast† (Addison 211). Away from their families and friends, immersed in a bloody war where hundreds upon thousands of people could die in a skirmish or battle, these soldiers could only count on each other to truly understand the situation they were currently in. Beaten and battered together, having lost many of the same friends, triumphed momentarily, or retreated hastily, this mutual understanding gave way to a support group – a family who soldiers could lean upon and secure their well being. Of this, Bidermann wrote, â€Å"Our thoughts were constantly occupied by the tenuous if not hopeless situation in which we found ourselves. We received solace only in our numbers and in being with comrades with whom we had shared so many experiences over the weeks, months, and years† (Bidermann 266). Repeatedly throughout the 3 readings, there is mention of men, whether they in the heat of battle or â€Å"relaxing† with company, being drunk. It’s no surprise as alcohol has been a means by which men have coped with their problems for thousands of years. If the problems won’t go away, the solution for some has been to drink until those problems do not register as problems anymore. As such, Holmes noted â€Å"headaches were almost universal in a theatre of war where wine and brandy were readily available† (Addison 212). Grossman ctually talks about how his battalion commander Kozlov, in the midst of battle, â€Å"withstood an attack of tanks. He was on great form and completely drunk. The tanks were thrown back in a dashing fashion† (Grossman 103). As religion has functioned as a form of comfort since the inception of civilization and the birth of religion, it was only natural for men living in depravity to come to it to relieve them of some of their burden. Subsequently, the men of the clergy were often instrumental to moral and aid. Furthermore, due to the looming possibility of death in war, the mortality of some became that much more apparent. In Bidermann’s account, he talks of a divisional chaplain named Satzger who had several times risked his life to recover wounded men. Resulting from men of the cloth like Satzger and with death looming, â€Å"many of the soldiers who had not been so inclined began to attend religious services †¦ For far too many [the chaplain] would offer the last voice of reassurance and the last vestige of comfort before they, too, succumbed to mortal wounds† (Bidermann 25). Another Catholic priest was dubbed â€Å"the rucksack priest† as he carried a field pack from which he provided troops on the front lines with simple food items that had in war become luxuries. While it may have been a spiritual solace that many received at the hands of these men of God, others attended for the sake of having a comforting and helping hand. It’s been told that leaders are supposed to lead by example. Caught in chaotic times, superior officers often functioned as beacons to rally around. In times past, great leaders such as George Washington, Alexander the Great, and Genghis Khan immersed themselves in battles, showing that the best commanders do not directing them from the rear, but rather leading them in the front. A commanding officer by the name of â€Å"Captain Kendall, turned a shaky company into a passably good one by public displays of sheer guts. ‘Look at me,’ he said quietly, walking from man to man under fire. ‘They can’t hit me. Look at me’† (Addison 210). Examples like this provided moral boosts to dreary men who needed something positive to cling to. Conversely, rather than inspiring by a guiding light of bravery and courage, the Soviets were incentivized onwards by the ever-present detachments behind the troops that would shoot deserters. Grossman describes this in further detail: â€Å"Stalin’s Order No. 27 – ‘Not One Step Back’ – included the instruction to each army command to organise ‘three to five well-armed [blocking] detachments (up to two hundred men each)’ to form a second line to ‘combat cowardices’ by shooti ng down any soldier who tried to run away† (Grossman 141). As many Soviet soldiers understood the likelihood of their death in squaring off against the Nazis, the desire to flee was understandable. Stalin believed that the presence of the troops would force the Soviet troops to fight even harder. Pushed forwards, the stark realization of soldiers was expressed by Grossman: â€Å"Once you are here, there is no way out. Either you will lose your head or your legs†¦ Everyone knows that those who turn and run would be shot on the spot. This was more terrifying than the Germans† (Grossman 146). Under the constant strain of needing to ration supplies and consistently cut off from supply lines, soldiers had to make do with their limited resources. Given the treacherous nature of the constant advancement and lack of luxuries, whenever there was time to enjoy the comfort brought by certain goods that had faded away from recent recollection to distant memories, the time was relished and the goods provided relief to the men. In fact, Bidermann specifically noted several instances where his regiment and he would partake in â€Å"luxuries† that were not available to them by enjoying the spoils of war. â€Å"Two August was marked by a break in the monotonous field rations, when we boiled freshly dug potatoes in an unnamed Ukrainian village. Obserschutze Fehr had already plucked a chicken, and together with the boiled hen and potatoes we ate peeled cucumbers† (Bidermann 24). In another instance, his crew discovered a still-intact collective farm and was able to enjoy hot coffee, schmalzbrot, and sleep in small thatched-roof huts. Though seemingly commonplace to us, moments such as these provided brief relief and respite from the horrors of daily life across the theatres, and allowed soldiers to momentarily reflect on how life used to be. Constantly under an onslaught of forces that, if mishandled, could cause a man to lose his mind, soldiers used some, if not all, of the aforementioned forms to provide relief or inspiration in persevering in their struggle. Under pressure, these men had to find whatever means by which to motivate themselves to return safely home, and more so than that, return home as much themselves as before.

Credible Sources a Key to College Success

Credible sources a key to college success College life can be pretty stressful and complicate it at times. There are several things that can help college life become easier and more manageable. One of the main things and if not the most important it will be the ability to identify and separate credible online sources from non-credible ones. It is very true that technology has help make college life easier, with search engines such as Google or Bing at just one click away of distance.The only problem is that with so many choices to pick from how to tell if a source is even worth to look at without having to expend a great amount of time looking at each one through. Even though non-credible sources are easier to find, credible sources are more reliable because they are usually written by experts and have more substantial information in them.If we take a credible source like â€Å"Rising prevalence of cohabitation in United States may have partially offset decline in marriage ratesâ₠¬  from the Family Planning Perspectives and compared against a non-credible sources like â€Å"Cohabitation in the United States† from Wikipedia, we can see that the article from the credible source has the components that help sort out a credible source from a non-credible. The article â€Å"Rising prevalence of cohabitation in United States may have partially offset decline in marriage rates† from the Family Planning Perspectives has the main things that you should look in a credible source.First of all I found the article in the CINAHL with Full Text database from the library most popular database list. I made sure I used the Boolean word Cohabitation in USA and I limit the results to only show full text and peer-review articles. The article is written in a very professional manner, also even though the article was written 1990; it has fairly recent review date of 2009. The information that the author explains is supported by numbers and statistics that help suppo rt her information.Some subgroups, such as cohabiting couples, single-parent families, stepfamilies, newlyweds, blacks and Hispanics, were oversampled. Interview questions emphasized cohabitation and the links between cohabitation and marriage. The final sample consisted of 6,881 married couples and 682 cohabiting couples; of these, 5,648 spouses and 519 cohabiting partners completed questionnaires (Vol. 22, Issue 2). In general most articles found in the library database re reliable, the only thing that is good to look for is if there is any biases in the article or reasons why the author may become bias, in the case of the author of this article Rebecca Turner is graduated it from the Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Essex, UK, which in this case helps to her credibility as an author. On the other hand the article that I found in Wikipedia â€Å"Cohabitation in the United States† is not considered a reliable source.The main reason for this is because is a Wiki and also because I found the article in Google’s search engine. Wiki’s in general can be a good way to start a research but they should not be used as a primary source to support an essay, wikis are open source which means that anyone can attempt to make changes or alter the information that is portrayed there, which mean one article can contain information from many different people that have never met each other. Also some of the information does not sound very professional and lack citations.It should be noted this model cites antecedent apprehension concerning commitment as the cause of increased break-ups and cohabitation only as an indicator of such apprehension. Another explanation is that those who choose not to cohabit prior to marriage are often more conservative in their religious views and may hold more traditional views on gender roles, a mindset that might prevent them from divorcing for religious reasons or confronting crisis in relationships despit e experiencing marital problems no less severe than those encountered by former cohabitants. citation needed] The fact that a citation is needed in that paragraph should be enough evidence to prove that wiki’s in general are not credible sources of information. In order for college life to be successful, a student should learn how to tell the differences between a reliable source of online information and a non-reliable one.Even though the articles in the library databases are more reliable than the ones found in Google, a student should always be on the look out and get as much information about the article and the author as possible, this would help the essay become a success. Work Cited Cohabitation in the United States. Wikipedia, 17 Sept. 2012. Web. 1 Oct. 2012. Turner, R. â€Å"Rising Prevalence of Cohabitation In United States May have Partially Offset Decline in Marriage Rates. † Family Planning Perspectives 22. 2 (1990): 90-91. CINAHL with Full Text. Web. 1 Oc t. 2012

Persian Letters

In this paper I will use the Persian Letters to illustrate a European’s view of both European and Asian government and religion. Montesquieu criticizes European their sense of liberty and worth. He then advocates European’s strength of the government and monarch ship. His views about Asian government and religion differ in that he thinks and believes that the Asian government is one that he can easily conform to less strict government laws place onto the people. His representation of Asians reflects that he feels out of place and humanized when comparing the different aspects about his own society. As successful as Europe’s government has been, Montesquieu finds great flaws in it. In the various letters he gives multiple accounts examining how their government is too cookie-cutter in structure. He speaks on how there is a belief of holding onto traditional values. â€Å" In Paris, liberty and equality prevail: neither birth, nor virtue, nor even success in war, however outstanding, can save a man from being lost in a crowd. Social jealously is unknown† (Letter 42). Here you see how Montesquieu backs his claim on how Europe’s system attempts to hold everyone to certain level of power. Religion in Europe isn’t perfect either; Montesquieu depicts the religious heads as manipulators of the people just as bad if not worse than the government. Montesquieu speaks on how no two powers are equal; that there has to be one who is always stronger. With Europe church set up of having the pope at the head of the church elaborates on this distortion of powers. â€Å" There is another magician, stronger than he†¦he will make the king believe that three are only one. † (Letter 24), We are able to see how even though the King of France is the most powerful in Europe he too is manipulate that what is believed to be the pure and righteous. Through his criticisms, Montesquieu still finds certain aspects of Europe’s Government to be strong and stable. In any order there is always fault. Nothing nor anyone is perfect. Analyzing the king himself provide a proper image of someone being proclaimed powerful but at that very same time weak. â€Å" He had an innumerable number of invisible enemies in his kingdom, surrounding him. They say that he has searched for them more than thirty years†¦ he has been unable to find a single one†¦ they say he will have the vexation of dying without being able to find them. (Letter 24) Here Montesquieu displays the false image portrayed thee king and at the same time acknowledges his effort to continue to maintain his reign without stepping out of line. Obedience seems to be the strongest assist of both Europe’s government and religion. The strictness of the country is seen very harsh when one step out of line even though the cruelty of the punishment does not measure up to way in which punishment is carried out in some parts of Asia. Looking at a comparison of the cultures, we saw how a small crime in Europeans eyes was nearly meaningless when looking at how Asians would interpret the punishment. One can take from this that Montesquieu seemly against this order if the state, can still resects and acknowledges how well they keep balance amongst their subjects. Based off how the letters were written one can thing that Montesquieu greatly favored the Asian was. If by looking deeper into the context of the letters Montesquieu had some critic their government system as well. Montesquieu seemed to adore the social aspects of the Asian culture more than that of the Europeans. He elaborated how great leaders earned their power and respect was given out when needed. Another issue present is the critiques that women are not value at all and men hold the power. Another opposition made against the lifestyle against of the Asians is their lack of government. There is a system in place that but he disagrees with their sense of ruling under fear and the imbalances in the people of society Montesquieu’s views on Asian government and society reflect in my opinion provides the needed base that allows the reader to gain a better understanding of European customs than if we solely viewed how he felt towards Europe. The comparison between the two provides us with both the positives and negatives of which society is run in Europe. Through this reflection I feel Montesquieu attempted to show the readers that Those brought up in European states were taught how to live and were a great asset to Asian culture were learning to follow their natural instinct.

Digital Divide Essay

Digital divide refers to the gap between people with effective access to digital and information technology, and those with very limited or no access at all. A total of 161 countries were examined over the 1999-2001 period to identify the determinants of cross-countries disparities in personal computers and internet penetration. Basically digital divide exist because of socio economic factors, geographical factors, educational, attitudinal and generational factors. A further gap between the developed and underdeveloped world in the uptake of technology is evident within the global community, and may be of even greater significance. Digital divide is classified under four (4) successive types of access: Motivational, physical, skills and usage is observed. A shift of attention from physical access to skill and usage is observed. In terms of physical the divide seems to be closing in most developed countries, concerning digital skills and the use of applications the divide persists. Developing countries are lagging behind in digital library research and development, due to the digital divide as well as the lack of appropriate resources required for search and development. As a result users in developing world are being deprived of digital library services. Global library development can be used by users in developing countries: subject gateways, digital reference services, free access to e-journals and e-books in many areas, also educating individuals about digital divide and also the internet. Having disconnected areas be connected to the network and distributing free useful devices e.g. laptops, phones etc to be up to date. www.emeraldinsight.com/journal.htm?articled=867166&show=abstract[->0] www.sciencedirect.com www.springlink.com/content/ [->0] – http://www.emeraldinsight.com/journal.htm?articled=867166&show=abstract

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

Ethical Dilemma - Essay Example The top executives like any other person have a right to appreciate other persons and give comments on their physical appearances, as well as their conducts. Since people do not look alike it normal for another person to compare a person with others especially if they are living together (Solotoff & Kramer, 2006). It is not right to assume that when someone is comparing two or more persons is doing so to seduce them or harass them sexually. For the top executives in an organization, they may compare the appearances and the conducts of female workers for the sole purpose of marketing their company. This may work well for the company if the most attract ladies is located where they can interact with the clients for the purpose of marketing the company. According to Solotoff and Kramer (2006) the "United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) sexual harassment is gender discrimination in violation of title VII Civil Rights Act 1964." The employers are held accountable for the sexual harassment of their employees while at their workplace. The conducts of the top executives of the accounting firms in the case study amounts to sexual harassment because result of their conducts was demeaning to the female workers in the organization. There were previous claims of sexual harassment in the same companies and some workers had sued the company successfully against sexual harassment. Furthermore, it was against the company’s culture because there are requirements that physical appearance was a requirement for employment. The top executives conducts were immoral and ill intended because it may lower the work moral of the female workers rated low and may even affect their social interactions with other employees. In conclusion, the conducts top executives of the accounting firms were unethical and were tantamount to sexual harassment of the female employees. The

Should Children with Special Needs be mainstreamed into Regular Essay

Should Children with Special Needs be mainstreamed into Regular Classrooms - Essay Example e similar to natural hyperactivity but in greater degrees, to the extent of creating a real handicap for children in performing their day-to-day activities .†( p-9).Because certain similarities in hyperactivity exist in a normal child and a child with ADHD some people hold the view that ADHD can be handled with behavior therapies and other psychological counseling. In SEN magazine, a magazine for special education needs, there is a question put up to Dr.Christine Merrell (a member of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence- NICE) whether she views ADHD as not a medical condition but children behaving badly. She clarifies that it is not caused by â€Å"bad parenting† as is considered in one of the many myths regarding ADHD but â€Å"ADHD is a real disorder with real consequences for the child affected and their family and not simply a case of bad behavior† and if ignored â€Å"can have serious implications for the child in later life.†(23 Aug 2009). Dr.Merrell suggests drug treatment for children with ADHD which should be a part of comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychological, behavioural and educational advice and interventions. In the book â€Å"Teaching Young Children with ADHD†, there is an explanation of the role of neurotransmitters – dopamine and norepinephrine – in ADHD and how the medicines for ADHD act on them. There is a quotation in this book from Garber, Garber, and Spizman’s â€Å"Beyond Ritalin (1996) –â€Å"Learning occurs after an electrical impulse produced by a stimulus is transmitted and moves across a neuron- synaptic course several times. If in ADHD these neural bridges are blocked or incomplete, whatever is being learned does not become automatic.† The medicines of ADHD regulate norepinephrine and dopamine levels thereby improving brain function and self-control which directly help in academics. In children with ADHD, there is a lack of math and reading ability and fine motor skills which prove to be

Ethical Principles Underlying Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ethical Principles Underlying Leadership - Essay Example According to the study it is common for healthcare facilities to update their work plans to follow a set of guidelines to conform to high quality standards. However, it is also expected that some members of the institutions in question would raise their points on opposing the implementation of changes within their healthcare system. An example of such changes met with strong opposition was mentioned in detail, where medical personnel were made to conform to evidence-based practices in dealing with their patients. The situation showed how their autonomy in handling patients was violated, but while there were major changes in how to deal with patients, there was still enough autonomy left for the healthcare personnel in the scenario, and that they could still take care of their patients in whatever way they deem fit. On a personal experience, in terms of fidelity and autonomy, the author had to face some problems with regards to handling patients under palliative care and their familie s. The physician handling the case wanted to fully inform the family as well as the patient of the expected life span after several failed chemotherapy sessions. The author voiced concern over the ethical aspect of such, and added explanations that it could prove stressful to both the family and the patient if they knew exactly that the time to be spent together was limited. In the end, to remain honest with the patient and family a compromise was made in telling them of the situation, though some parts of the truth such as estimated timeframe were held back so as not to add stress. Telling them about the shorter lifespan was better than not telling them about it at all, and that this helps them to prepare in the event that the patient suddenly expire within the expected time frame, showing how ethics and fidelity can come together in the provision of care. Answer to Discussion Question 2: Non-malfeasance has been defined as one of the basic principles in healthcare that requires pr oviders to do the patient not any kind of harm, however, the vagueness of the term creates problems in determining whether actions done for patients are harmful or not (Monagle & Thomasma, 2004). This means that harm becomes a relatively subjective term, and what may work for one patient might fail in another’s case. This is one reason why patients normally put their complete trust on medical personnel in keeping them safe, no matter if they would be harmed or not. It is expected that

Marketing Audit and Marketing Objectives Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Marketing Audit and Marketing Objectives - Essay Example In the recent past, Dell Corporation has enhanced their consumer base in the laptop computer brand. Indeed, the company implemented one of the best marketing initiatives in the face of high technological innovativeness in the early 21st century. Through its marketing campaigns, Dell focussed on developing a consumer base composed of younger population, who preferred portable laptop computers for their daily activities, such as studies. They specifically ensured that they captured students and younger adult population. However, in the campaigns aimed at the young consumers, Dell Computers knew the significance of communicating - at least indirectly, to parents who are usually called upon to help with purchasing the products for their sons and daughters (Proctor, 2000; Baker, & Hart, 2007).  In the recent past, Dell Corporation has enhanced their consumer base in the laptop computer brand. Indeed, the company implemented one of the best marketing initiatives in the face of high techn ological innovativeness in the early 21st century. Through its marketing campaigns, Dell focussed on developing a consumer base composed of younger population, who preferred portable laptop computers for their daily activities, such as studies. They specifically ensured that they captured students and younger adult population. However, in the campaigns aimed at the young consumers, Dell Computers knew the significance of communicating - at least indirectly, to parents who are usually called upon to help with purchasing the products for their sons and daughters (Proctor, 2000; Baker, & Hart, 2007). II. Goals, strategy formulation and implementation Dell strives to be the most flourishing corporation in the world known for producing the best laptop computers that meet and exceed the customer expectations in the UK market. The corporation’s marketing objectives and goals are premised upon providing the customers with laptops that have new and striking features such as webcam for video chats or conferencing (Linsenbach, 2007). These features are increasingly becoming popular, especially in the UK. With these features incorporation in its laptop brands, Dell aims to be seen making the life of the users more relaxed. The strategy was been apparently implemented in the Dell’s ‘Dude’ campaigns, which may continue to be the future trend in regard to appealing for the younger population (Proctor, 2000; Doyle, & Stern, 2006). The company’s targeting of the UK’s younger consumers with the laptop brands in the 1990s saw the original creation of Dell Computers "Dude." The promotions captured the ‘

FIVE short seminar Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

FIVE short seminar - Essay Example The texts were available before in the local orthodox language and beliefs of the Church which were given new expression in the print media and led to more openness of the expression. The target segment for receiving the benefits of print revolution already existed. The paper and block printing was first invented in China in the first century which spread to Europe in the twelfth century (Eisenstein, 2012, p.53). The spread of Martin Luther’s ideas and the lessons of the Church found channels of expression. In the nineteenth century, the print presses were power driven and faster dissemination of information happened among the masses. Development in investment scenario of the countries like Australia, etc is also a contribution of the print media. Radio days The emergence of radio as a mass medium happened long back from the days of Marconi. Marconi invented ways of decoding the communication codes used in a telegraph and transmitting useful information through a radio. In the early days, the use of radio was an amateurish activity by the audiences who used crystal radio sets. People also pursued hobbies of using radio as a communication medium. In 1920, the corporate radio broadcasting centres stared to operate for reaching out to the masses. With time the desire and the need for radios developed. This gave rise to subsequent developments of the radio communication through the introduction of vacuum tube radio and loudspeakers for better communication. During the time of depression in 19298, radio became the mass medium of communication. Thus for the stages of hobby, radio developed into a wired mass medium for distant communications. Messages and information starting from emergency to entertainment were spread through the radio. The sinking of Titanic and messaging for SOS happened through telegraphic system. However, the news of the world wars was more wide spread with the help of radio. In the field of entertainment, radio started to broadcast new on films, broadcasted musical events and commentaries on live sporting events like Olympics, Football world cup, etc. Image Technologies and Mass Society The image technologies came into vogue during the end of the nineteenth century. The image technologies marked the emergence of the mass society in the twentieth century. In the twentieth century, the communication in the world circulated through wired media like telegraph and telephone. The advent of the image technology brought about the spread of news and entertainment to a wider section of the society. Almost all the spheres of life that include urbanisation of the regions, transportation and public works, information on the time zones were all the more accessible with the help of image technologies. Consumerism developed rapidly with the formation of departmental stores, exhibitions and fairs, e.g. Paris Exposition of 1901. Numerous small theatres developed along with the stardom of the celebrities also grew. The spread of pictu res led to change in lifestyles of the population with more interest to the world of eminent personalities. The Paris Exposition of 1901 received overwhelming responses on sensual pleasures as compared to the knowledge part. The heritage properties like the Crystal Palace of 1950 were designed for the awareness of the masses. The manufacturers started to apply

Starbucks Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Starbucks - Essay Example Furthermore, the report provides a discussion of the marketing mix and possible strategies that should be employed in order to ensure that the launch of a new organic product line by Starbucks in the UK is successful. Table of Contents Executive Summary 2 1.Introduction 3 2. Situation Analysis 4 2.1 PESTLE Analysis 5 The rise of health conscious consumers in the UK means that the organic food industry is no longer categorized as a niche market but has recently become a market that is targeted towards the masses. According to IBISWorld, sales volumes of organic products in the UK are expected to rise by 2.6% resulting in financial growth of ?2.02 billion (PRWEB 2013). Certainly, this trend reflects increased consumer awareness regarding food products and the benefits of organic produce on health. 6 2.2 SWOT Analysis 7 3.Market Summary 8 3.1Segmentation 8 3.2Targeting 9 3.3.Positioning 10 3.3 Competition 10 3.4 Market Growth Potential 11 4.1 Marketing Objective 12 4.2 Target Market 12 4.3 Product Offering 12 4.4 Marketing Program 13 4.4.1 Marketing Mix 13 4.4.2 Marketing Communication Mix 13 References 15 PRWEB (2013). UK Organic food industry is moving from niche to mainstream markets [online] available from [24 June 2013] 15 The Asset (2013). Strong UK GDP growth through Q3 seen, SWIFT Index predicts [online] available from [24 June 2013] 15 UKTI (2012). Finance, grants and incentives for businesses in the UK [online] available from [24 June 2013] 15 1. Introduction Starbucks started its operations in 1971 with a sole location at Seattle’s Pike Place Market engaging in the buying and selling of ground coffee and whole bean (Starbucks 2012). The business started with Howard Schlutz’s vision of taking the European coffeehouse experience and translating it according to the requirements, demands, needs and wants of the American customer (Kotler 2010). According to Kotler (2010) the success of Starbucks which is reflected in the existence of 17,651 sto res (as of July 2012) across the globe (Starbucks 2012) has been its ability to integrate a rich experience and successful product to provide the Starbucks Experience. Starbucks made entrance in the European coffee market in 1998 as a consequence of its acquisition of 65 Seattle Coffee Company outlets located in the United Kingdom (Starbucks 2013a). Analysts note that Starbuck’s entrance into the UK market via this strategic business decision was aided by the similarities shared by the two companies it their culture, values and commitment towards the customers (Starbucks 2013). 2. Situation Analysis According to the financial results of Starbucks in the last 5 years, the company has experienced significant growth in its earnings per share which is a positive sign. Under this consideration financial analysts can make accurate evaluations regarding the financial state of the company and the performance of the sales department in particular. According to reports, the earnings pe r share of the organization have increased on a consistent basis from $0.87 in 2007

Answer the three questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Answer the three questions - Essay Example The new EPA rules, like the Clean Air Act, will enforce regulations of gas emissions for businesses like plant, refineries and factories (Milbourn 2010). Its new policies will focus on requiring them to increase their efficiency regarding cleaning fuels, controlling emissions, and reducing GHG pollution (Walsh 2011). Businesses will also be required to include green house gases when trying to obtain permits for pollutants. The government has to take an active role in controlling green house gas emissions. It is responsible for the safety of its country and citizens for the years to come. Voluntary actions by individuals do help but no rules and regulations are enforced this way. The government should review its policies for GHG emissions and pollutants and introduce better regulations for their control (Milbourn 2010). These policies should be evaluated by leading experts before being implemented. Also, required safety permits, strict regulations and rules should be put into place fo r the leading industries causing emissions like power plants and automobile factories. Educational programs should also be developed in schools and for the public at large to create more awareness of this looming crisis. Works Cited Cathy, Millbourn. EPA Sets Thresholds for Greenhouse Gas Permitting Requirements/Small Businesses and Farms Will be Shielded.

Retail Bank's Marketing Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Retail Bank's Marketing - Case Study Example Pricing is a very integral part of marketing. Decisions about price are those which determine profitability (Stephenson, 2005). It is also one of the factors which determine whether the customer will actually acquire the product or service. Customers base their purchase judgments based on price (Stephenson, 2005). Pricing of the financial products is one of the most crucial decisions. Some of the most common pricing strategies used by the marketers include both cost-based strategies and non- cost based strategies (Winston, 1986). Ethics are moral principles and values that govern the actions and decisions of an individual or group. These serve as guidelines as to what is the fair and right thing to do. Customers have the right to be informed, and it is the marketers' responsibility to ensure they are providing customers accurate and complete information about their products and services, i.e. they should disclose complete costs associated with financial services, but this is not always practiced(Kerin, Hartley & Rudelius, 2003). Social responsibility is an important part of the marketing concept of any organization in any given industry. This is especially important for financial institutions since they serve the public. They need to not only focus on profits but also on the society as a whole. At times it is possible for a company to satisfy its customers yet fail to meet social responsibility. Despite the fact that banks and other financial institutions play a active role in the society, they still manage to conduct practices that abuse the environment discriminate in hiring employees, manufacturing unsafe products or engaging in misleading advertising or labeling. At times these organizations are still focuses on meeting their goals rather than meeting customer needs (Pezzullo, 1998). In the article 'Interest rate clustering in the UK financial services market' (2008), Ashton and Hudson explain through empirical evidence the price and interest rate clustering practices used by retail banks. In their study they explain how financial services marketers capitalize on the difficulties customers face in recalling and processing price information. They do this to maximize their revenue from deposits made by customers. Ashton and Hudson (2008) explain that price and interest rate clustering occur as a result of an individual's limited number recall.

Psychological Definitions of Abnormal Behavior Essay Example for Free

Psychological Definitions of Abnormal Behavior Essay According to the science of psychology one’s behavior needs to follow a certain criteria in order to be deemed â€Å"normal†. If one’s behavior does not match the criteria, their behavior is seen as undesirable and wrong (requires change). For this physiologists need to be able to view a person’s behavior and be able to tell the difference between normal and abnormal. Whilst defining the â€Å"normality† of ones behavior physiologists need to be careful to remain objective and as free of any bias as possible, furthermore their experiment to determine ones behavior needs to be repeatable and reliable. In order to do this psychologists often consults the characteristics of ideal mental health proposed by Marie Jahoda in 1958. Marie Jahoda proposed 6 different characteristics for ideal mental health after surveying different doctors and psychologists; this is the list she came up with: * Positive self esteem and a strong sense of identity * Personal growth and development * Ability to cope with stressful situations (integration) * Autonomy and independence * Accurate perception of reality * Successful mastery of the environment, particularly relationships. Jahoda argued that if one does not meet these criteria then ones behavior can be deemed abnormal as a result of an existing problem. This in my opinion provides a strong applicable foundation for the determination of ones â€Å"normality† of behavior. However the problem with Jahoda’s ideal mental health scheme is the fact that the results obtained rely solely on the observer’s judgment, therefore presenting a inevitable bias not to mention the fact that no person can truly ever meet all of the suggested criteria. This mean that according to Jahoda every person is abnormal. Another way to look for abnormal behavior for psychologists is to find deviation form the social norm (majority). This is done by observing ones actions in public and seeing how normal it is. For example if you see someone wearing a bikini/swim trunks whilst walking around a supermarket, his or her behavior would be deemed as abnormal. The limitations of observing behavior in this manor lay in the fact that different cultures have different norms. Not to mention the fact that in any given culture norms evolve. What may have once been acceptable in the 80’s is not necessarily acceptable today. Abnormality of one’s behavior can also be monitored by looking at its statistical frequency. Meaning how common ones behavior is when compared to the rest of the public. If one’s behavior is shared by many it is deemed common and therefore â€Å"normal†, however if ones behavior is uncommon or rare, it is deemed abnormal. For example one may say that an individual who has an IQ below or above the average level of IQ in society is abnormal. The problem with this system is the fact that, it does not account for the desirability of the given behavior. In other words this system claims that both low and high IQ’s are an abnormality that need to be treated. Physiologists and others interested in â€Å"normality†, look over at ones behavior to see how well they can function. If one is unable to function adequately they are deemed abnormal. In order to determine how well one functions, psychologists consult Rosenhan and Seligman’s list of characteristics that define abnormality (1989). Rosenhan and Seligman argued that in order to classify someone as â€Å"inadequate in life† they must meet several of the characteristics as a pose to only one. This is their list: * Suffering * Maladaptiveness (danger to self) * Vividness unconventionality (stands out) * Unpredictably loss of control * Irrationality/incomprehensibility * Causes observer discomfort * Violates moral/social standards The possible limitation to Rosenhan and Seligman’s list of characteristics is the fact that â€Å"normal† people engage in activates which are potentially harmful like drinking or smoking, these people are not classed as abnormal. It is very difficult to classify behavior as to date no scheme to do so exists, which is perfect. Physiologists must tread carefully when labeling one with a disorder. Bias will always be present in one form or another, however the results can be deemed reliable if practicing psychologists consult multiple schemes in order to have a better chance of an accurate diagnosis. Bibliography * Class handout â€Å"abnormal?† Mrs campion. * DefiningAbnormality. AS Psychology /. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Oct. 2012. http://as-psychology.pbworks.com/w/page/9174252/DefiningAbnormality. * Abnormal Psychology. Abnormal Psychology. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Oct. 2012. http://www.simplypsychology.org/abnormal-psychology.html.

Importance Of Distribution Channels Marketing Essay

Importance Of Distribution Channels Marketing Essay Meaning: in the field of marketing, channels of distribution indicates routes or pathways through which goods and services flow, or more from producers to consumers. We can define formally the distribution channels as the set of interdependent marketing institutions participating in the marketing activities involved in the movement the flow of goods or services from the primary producers to ultimate consumers. A channel of distribution is a path traced in the direct or indirect transfer of ownership of a product as it moves from producers to consumers. A channel is pipeline through which a flows on its way to the consumers. The manager put his products into the pipeline marketing channels and it moves towards various marketing people and reaches the ultimate consumer which is the other end of the channels. Components of distribution system: The distribution system involves two components such as below. Channels of distribution Physical distribution Channels of distribution: means a process through which the products are transferred from the producers to the ultimate consumers. It also known as marketing channels. The channels members such as merchants agents wholesalers and retailers are middlemen in distribution and they perform all marketing functions. These channels members such as merchants agents wholesalers and retailers are middlemen in contribution and try perform according to marketing functions. These middlemen facilitate the process of exchange and create time, place and possession utilities through matching and sorting process. Sorting enables meeting or matching the supply with consumers demand. Physical distribution: it looks after physical handling of goods and assures maximum customers services. It aims at offering of delivery of right goods at the night distribution activities cover: Order processing Packaging Warehousing Transportation Inventory control Customer service. All middle in distribution on performs these function and they assure putting the products with in an arms length customers desire and demand. Elements of distribution channels: Path way: distribution channels are a pathway through which products and services flow from manufacturers to customers. Flow: this of goods and services in sequential and usually in directional. Composition: it is composed of intermediaries also called middlemen who participate in the flow of voluntarily. Objectives: although channels components largely strive to achieve mutually acceptable objectives, the manufacturer focus is an achieving corporate marketing objective. Leader: manufacturer leads the channels components and their behavior is regulated by mutually acceptable code of conduct, trade customer and or contracted stipulation. Thus the company acts as the channels caption and manages the pathway. Functions: the intermediaries perform such functions which facilitates transfers of ownership and possession of goods and services from marketers to consumers. The function performed by intermediaries is been classified as follows: Sorting out: it involves breaking a homogeneous through grading or inspection. Accumulation: it involves bringing a number of like products together into a large homogeneous supply. This process is called concentration. Allocation: it involves sorting out of accumulated products and consists of breaking down a homogeneous supply into smacker lots it is also referred to as the process of dispersion. Assorting: it involves building an assortment of different but perhaps a related product to form a stock of an intermediary. At the manufacturer level assortment are dictated by production technology while at the consumer and, use assortments are governed by consumption pattern. These discrepancies in assortment create opportunities for intermediaries to participate in the channels of distribution. Importance of distribution channels: Channels of distribution for a product the route taken by the title to goods they are from the producers to the ultimate consumers. It is very important because product in one place while the consumption scattered in many place. So there is big gap between producers and the consumers. So through channels of distribution can only fill the gap. A channel of distribution connects a link between the producers and the consumers. The middle man plays an important role in consumer orientation demand. The middlemen are specialist in concentration equalization and dispersion, i.e. collects output of various producers subdivide the products according to the needs of the consumers. disperse this assortment to the consumers. The success of channels of distribution [COD] is completely depending upon the middlemen as they create time and possession utility. The COD helps in making products available at right time in the night place and in the right quality. Marketing is a comprehensive term, which includes distribution also, distribution is a function to distribution or sub divided the producers goods to various specific markets which incurred to all ultimate consumers. Role of channels of distribution Channel of Distribution plays a very important role in achieving the marketing objectives of a company. Undoubtedly, the manufacturer of product or services creates involve utility but the distribution channels create time and place utilities. According to Drucker, both the market and distribution channels are offer more crucial than the product. They are primary; the product is secondary. In an ever widening market, particularly in consumer goods market distribution channels have a distinctive role in the successful implementation of marketing plans and strategies. These channels performing the following marketing functions the machinery of distribution. The searching out of buyers and seller. Matching goods to requirements of the market(merchandising) Offering products in the form of assortments packages of items usable and acceptable by the consumers /users. Persuading and influencing the prospective buyers to favor a certain products and its maker [personal selling /sales promotion]. Implementing pricing strategies in such a manner that would be acceptable to the buyers and ensure effective distribution functions. Participating actively in the creation and establishment of market for a new product. Offering pre- and after sales service to customer Transferring of new technology to the users along with the supply of products and playing green resolution in our country. Providing feels back information, marketing intelligence and sales forecasting services for their regions their suppliers. Offering credit to retailers and consumers. Risk- bearing with references to stock holding transport. MIDDLEMAN IN DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS Merchant intermediaries are those channels member who take both title to and position of goods from the proceeding member (s) and channels them to the subsequence. These may classify as follows: Wholesalers : A merchants wholesalers may be defined as that intermediary who buys goods in bulk from manufactures and sells them largely to subsequent intermediaries participating in the channel, namely, semi-wholesalers and retailers, they buy the goods and sees the same on their own account and risk. They take title of goods and they resale the goods at a profit with commission. Retailers: A retailer may be defined as that merchant intermediary who buys product from preceding challes members in smaller assorted lots to suit individuals consumer requirements. Retail in the final middlemen in the channel of distribution as he is going to sell products to houses holds consumers for non- business use. Retailers are further classified as institutional and non- institutional retailers. The institutional retailers are: Consumer Co- operative stores. Fair price shops. Departmental stores. Chain / multiple stores. Mail order houses. The non-institutional buyers are: Stress sellers. Peddlers. Hawkers. Agent Intermediaries: Agent Intermediaries are those channel components who never take title to end usually do not take title to and usually do not take possession of goods but merely assist manufacturers, merchants intermediaries and consumers in carrying out transactions of sale and purchase. There for, unlike merchant intermediaries, they do not buy or sell goods on their own account but merely bring buyers and sellers together in order to strike a transaction. There exist an agency relationship between such an intermediary manufacturers where in the former acts as agent and the latter as his principal, such agent intermediaries solicit orders, sometimes with discretion a fixing prices, and determines the term of sale with buyers. Agent intermediaries are usually compensable for their services by way of commission on the value of sale affected through them or any other basis naturally agrees upon. Agent intermediaries may be further classified as follows: Sole selling agent. Selling agent. Commission agent. Brokers. Channel decision The first problem of channel design in whether you want direct sale to consumer or indirect sale i.e., sale through middleman under the direct sales the channel problem becomes problems of company organization. If the company chooses the indirect route, it must consider such problem as the type and number of middlemans and methods to be employed in motivating and controlling them. The selection of these middlemen beings with the knowledge of ultimate customers-his needs and desires for distribution services. Customer conveniences and economics of exclusive distribution will determine the number of middleman employed. The company must choose whether to attempt extensive, selective or exclusive distribution or combination of all three types, the decision is made after the careful analysis of product, customer, dealers, and company objectives and policies, and the conflict with in the channels and any other relevant factors. The company must resolve channels and bring the product profit ably to the market. In the chance managements a manufacturer has to make three decisions: Section of a particular middleman at each level and in each market. Number of middlemen at each level and in each market. Selection of particular middlemen for selling goods, with or without any exclusive rights of distribution. Once the company has determined, its basic channel design and levels of distribution, it has to select middlemen appoint them, motivate their efforts, evaluate their utility periodically and if necessary, it has to reorganizing the channels in the light of experience. Channel choice Channel decisions also require special attention as involve long term commitments to other firms with whom marketer enters in to a contract. The problem of selecting the most suitable channel 0f distribution for a product is complex. The most fundamental factor for channel choice and channel management it economic criteria, viz., cost and profit criteria, we have to consider a number of factors such as the nature of the product, market trends, competition outlooks pricing policies typical consumer needs, as well as needs of the manufacture critical factor. Product factors Product manufactured by a company itself is a governing factor of great force in the distribution channel selection. The product attributes shape the channel decision in the following manners, If a commodity is perishable or fragile a producer prefers few and controlled levels of distribution. For durable and standardized goods longer and diversified channel may be necessary. For custom made product direct distribution to consumer or industrial user may be desirable. Systems approaches needs package deal and shorter-channel serves the purpose. For technical product requiring specialized and selling and serving talent, we here the shortest channel. Products of high unit value are sold directly by traveling sales force and not through middlemen. Market factors Under the modern concept of marketing market factor shape all marketing decision. As a corollary, the distribution channel choice is considerably influenced by market factor. Consumers: the numbers of consumers, their geographic location and purchase pattern considerably govern the choice of a channel. Intermediaries: the relative strength and weakness of intermediaries and the difference in the type of function performed and facilities and privileges desired by them often determine the choice of channel. Competitors: the distribution channels used by competitors also influence the channel choice because it may be the customary channel used by all those operating in the field. If the market size is large, we have many channels where as in a small market direct selling may be profitable. Company factors Like markets and products, companies own strength and weakness significantly influence and shape channel choices. Financial strength: a company with substantial and financial resources need not really too much on the middlemen and can offered. To reduce the levels of distribution a weaker company has to open on middlemen to secure financial and warehousing relief. Past channel experience: in case often old and established company its past experience of working with certain kind of intermediaries also condition channel choice. Marketing policies: the marketing policies relevant to channels decision may relate to advertising delivery, after sales service and pricing. Reputation: it is said that the reputation travels faster than the man. It is true in case of companies also who wish to select distribution channels. Middlemen Middlemen who can provide wanted marketing services will be given first preference. The selected middle men must offer maximum co operation particularly in promotional services. They must expect marketing policies and programs of the manufacturers and actively help them in their implementation. The channel generating the largest sales volume unit cost will be given top priority this will be minimizing distribution cost. Competitors Marketers closely watch the channels used by rivals. Many a times, similar channels may be desirable to bring about distribution of your products also. Followers, sometimes marketers deliberately avoid customary channels (dominated by rivals) and adopt different channels strategy for instance, you may by pass retail store channel (usually used by rival) and adopt door to door sales (where there is no competitors). Environmental factors Marketing environment can also influence the channel decision. During recession or depression, shorter and cheaper channel is always preferable. In times of prosperity we have a wider choice of channel alternatives. Technological inventions also have impact on distribution. The distribution of the perishable goods even in distant markets becomes a reality due to cold storage facilities in transport and warehousing. Hence this led to expanded role of intermediaries in the distribution of perishable goods. Arranging in classes of distribution channels and intermediaries Types of distribution channels: broadly distribution channels may be classified as a non integrated and integrated channel is individual or conventional marketing channels.