The Islamic Worldview

UNGS 2030 THE ISLAMIC WORLDVIEW SEMESTER 1 2012/2013 ASSIGNMENT #1 TITLE| WORLDVIEW:THE MEANINGS,NECESSITY AND ELEMENTS ACCORDING TO MUSLIM SCHOLARS| COURSE TITLE| THE ISLAMIC WORLVIEW| COURSE CODE| UNGS 2030| SUBMISSION DATE| 30 OCTOBER 2012| NAME| NURUL AMALINA BINTI MD ALI| MATRIC. NO| 1215762| SECTION| 2| LECTURER NAME| DR. MD YOUSUF ALI| ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Bismillahirrahmanirrahim Assalamualaikum, First and foremost, I would like to thank to my instructor of this assignment, Dr. Md Yousuf Ali who is my best lecturer of The Islamic Worldview subject for the valuable explanation, guidance and advice especially during lecture session. He inspired me greatly to work in this assignment. His willingness to motivate me contributed tremendously to my assignment. I also would like to thank him for showing me some example that related to the topic of my assignment about The Worldview in term of its meanings, necessity and elements according to Muslim scholars. Besides, an honourable mention goes to my family and friends for their understandings and supports on me in completing this assignment. Without helps of the particular that mentioned above, I would face many difficulties while doing this assignment. During complete this assignment, I faced many difficulties and challenging things especially midterm examination and Eid Adha Celebration was around the corner. I found the information that related to our topic through The Holy Quran, the Internet, magazine, reference book and people in surrounding. However, I had done and can overcome these problem by maximize my effort and pray to Him who is The Most Helpful to His servant. Alhamdulillah. THE MEANINGS THE MEANING OF WORLDVIEWS In this assignment, first and foremost, before us knowing about worldview in Islamic perspectives, we must know the introduction and definition of ‘Worldview’. Where is term come from? And where is it used? The word of ‘Worldview’ is come from many sources. Its meaning is defined by many of scholars either western scholars or Muslim scholars. One of them comes from German’s term which is called as â€Å"Weltanschauung. Meanwhile, in Arabic’s term it is refer as â€Å"Tasawur or Ru’yah al-Islam li al-Wujud â€Å",   *The Meaning of Worldview by Western Scholars In the end of 1700s, Friedrich Schilling who is the German philosopher defined that, worldview (Weltanschauung) is refer as â€Å"The self-realized productive and conscious way of apprehending an d interpreting the universe of beings†. After a century, about in 1868, â€Å"Weltanschauung† was known as â€Å"a comprehensive conception of the world especially from a specific point of view†. Based on German scholars perspectives defined that Worldview is comprises of set of attitudes on basic matters like the way people think about the world. *The Meaning of Worldview by Muslim Scholars Muslim scholars and thinkers started use the precept of â€Å"worldview† during modern period. This percept appeared in the works of a lot of Muslim scholars like Sheikh Badiuzaman Nursi (1877-1960) in â€Å"Rasa’il al Nur† (letters of light) and in some Iranian thinkers such as Ali Shari’ati (1933-1977), al-Mutahari Ayatullah Murtaza (fundamentals of Islamic thought: God, man and the universe), Sayed Husein Naser (1933-) in â€Å" Man and nature: the spiritual crisis in modern man†, â€Å"Islam and the plight of modern man†. Isma’il Raji al-Faruqi (933-1982) â€Å"cultural atlas of Islam†, â€Å"Tawhid: its implications for thought and life†, Muhammad Naqib al-Atas â€Å"Islam and secularism†. In Arabic literature Sayed Qutb (1906-1966) came in the first place in his â€Å"in the shade of the Qur’an† (Fi Zilal al-Qur’an) â€Å"The Islamic Perspective† â€Å"al-Tasawwur al-Islami† occupies a central position. In contemporary period, valuable works have been produced dealing with the issue from Islamic point of view by Sardar Ziauddin (Islamic civilization: history of sciences), Alam Shoudhury (economics) (The Islamic worldview: socio-scientific perspective), al-Messiri (Thought & Political science). The meaning of Worldview by Muslims’ approach stands that the worldview is made from the aspect of both al-Dunya and al-Akhirah, in which the Dunya-aspect must be related in a profound and inseparable way to the Akhirah-aspect which the Akhirah-aspect has ultimate and final significance. In other word, worldview is a set of attitudes on a wide range of fundamental matters. It has a comprehensive set of propositions about various aspects of the world around us and man’s place within it. It is also defined as a basic assumption about the way of thinking about the world, which provides a more or less coherent, though not necessarily accurate. A worldview is a profile of the way the people within a specified culture live, act, think, work and relate. At the same time, it can be act as a â€Å"map† or culture’s social, religious, economic and political views and relationships.THE MEANING OF ISLAMIC WORLDVIEWSBased on Syed Naquib Al-Attas, a great Muslim scholar, he mentioned that Islamic Worldviews is, â€Å"a vision of reality and truth that appears before our mind’s eye revealing what existance is all about†. â€Å"a metaphysical survey of the visible as well as the invisible worlds including the perspective of life as a whole†. According to Al-Attas, worldview is considered as vision of reality and truth (ru’yat  al-Islam  li  al-wujud) from the Islamic point of view. Another Muslim scholar, Professor Kamal Hassan ,Professor  Area of Specialization: Contemporary Islamic Thought IIUM, also stated that, Worldviews is a comprehensive conception of Allah,man and the universe and their relationship from Islamic perspectives. † The worldview of Islam encompasses both al-dunia and al-akhirah in which the dunia aspect must be inextricably linked to the akhirah aspect, and in which the akhirah aspect has ultimate and final significance. Hence, Islamic worldviews concern with this universe (world) and the hereafter or the Day of Judgment as far as Islamic nature of reality is concerned. The belief in dual worldviews has made Islam looks exceptional. Since these views are principally derived from the  Quran, this reflects that Islamic worldviews are identical to  Quranic  worldview. Unlike in the Western, their emphasizing is on logical reasoning as well as rationality. Due to this, Islam has distinguished itself from other available worldviews as mentioned by Khurshid  Ahmad as cited by   Mawdudi. For instances, the Western’s and Christian‘s worldviews are secular and religious respectively. Islamic worldview is about the seen and unseen matter like the universe, creator, prophethood, society, man, and hereafter. Amalgamation or historical concoction or any addition stories of various cultural values are not a worldview that is formed merely. Rather, it is a well established framework derived from the revelation and interpreted by Muslim scholars throughout Islamic history. Then, it is implement by Muslims today. This frame of reference provides us with correct and consistent answers to the ultimate questions pertinent to the issues of God, unseen, man, universe, and life. It also guides man as a vicegerent of Allah to the correct belief system, shari‘ah, and ethical values. THE NECESSITYTHE NECESSITY OF ISLAMIC WORLDVIEWWe all need a certain worldview, even if it is not made fully explicit, to interact with our world. There is a practical need to have at least an implicit and for that reason naive answer for each of the worldview questions. The Islamic worldview is more than a religion. In Islam, it covers all aspects of life for its followers. Many religious scholars treat the Islamic worldview as a monotheistic religion following five simple pillars of faith. In Islamic worldview, it has views about the words like astronomical, spiritual, physical, intellectual and many aspect of life. The outlook of life in this perceptive is highly emphasized which is show us the vision of life to achieve certain goal in world and the ultimate goal in hereafter. Islamic worldview is important in order to provide the Muslims with the true knowledge and explanation about the world seen and unseen as they are explained in the Quran. Quran is the best guidance for all questions about life. This revelation is restricted to deny. The answer from this revelation cannot change and make this worldview become stable due to have ultimate guidance. For instance, if we are question about something, we can refer to Quran to find the solution. This guidance also encourages us to get the answer through the learning and reading. In Surah Al-Alaq, Allah mentioned that: Another that, Islamic worldview helps us to interact with nature, individuals, peoples, nations, cultures and civilizations. It helps us to know them comprehensively and can plan neighborhood among them. After we have relation with certain culture, we have to recognize what is their ethnic and culture. This will helps us to correct our own values, perspectives, attitudes and behaviors. This perceptive guide and teach people the way and method how to achieve the main values of Islam in human life. We can differentiate which one is bad and good. In Islam, the aspects regarding our morality and virtues (akhlaq) are become one of necessity aspect of life although we are struggling to achieve a success in life. As an example, we need to cover aurah during working at workstation. Furthermore, this percept is purposed to establish the fundamental ethical precepts, such as justice, freedom, trust, and dignity of human life and existence. Some of worldview not emphasize ethical aspect very well. By this perception, it will formulate theories of politics, sociology, culture, etc.THE ELEMENTS THE ELEMENTS OF ISLAMIC WORLDVIEWThe fundamental elements of Islamic Worldview are the key terms of this perceptive. These elements act as integrating principles that place all our systems of meaning and standard of life and values in coherent order as a unified system forming the worldview. The highest principle of true reality as stated in Quran is focused on knowledge of the nature of God. The w orldview of Islam is characterized by an authenticity and finality that points to what is ultimate, and it projects a view of reality and truth that encompasses existence and life altogether in total perspective whose fundamental elements are permanently established. Quoted back of Syed Naquib Al Attas word,† A metaphysical survey of seen and unseen world including the perspective of life as a whole†. The element of worldview are include visible anfd visible things. They are: 1. The Nature of God This the supreme principle of Islamic Worldview. This all about the existence of God. 2. The Nature of Revelation- The Qur'an ; Prophethood This element are totally derived from Revelation, the change which is possible in this case is restricted to the manifestation of these elements in different units of time and space. 3. The Nature of Revealed Religion- Islam 4. The Nature of the World and Hereafter (dunya wal akhirah) 5. The Nature of Man The Psychology Of Human Soul (insan) 6. The Nature of Knowledge (‘ilm) As mentioned in Surah Al Alaq which is encourage us to seek knowledge. 7. The Nature of Adab (values and virtues) The aspects regarding our morality and virtues (ahlaq) are become one of necessity aspect of life although we are struggling to achieve a success in life. 8. The Nature of Freedom 9. The Nature of Happiness (sa'adah) 10. The True Meaning of Change, Development, and Progress 1. Concluding Remarks All of them are together with the key terms and concepts that they unfold, have profound bearing upon our ideas about change, development, and progress. These fundamental elements act as integrating principles that place all our system of meaning and standards of life and values in coherent order as a unified system forming the worldview and the supreme principle of true reality that is articulated by these fundamental elements is focused on knowledge of the nature of God as revealed in the Qur'an.CONCLUSIONIt is a high time that the initiative of integrating the Islamic worldview into the planning of neighbourhoods takes off in the Muslim world. Worldviews play the main role in the human being life. Its affect every single action of a man. Different worldviews will certainly shape different qualities of mankind which will eventually lead them to different end means of life as well. This distinction due to man’s aql (intellectual) which is very limited and sometime buyers (not fair). Worldview is a complex and a comprehensive perception. A worldview manifests itself in all aspects of life, social, political, economic, civilization etc. This complex includes the spiritual, cognitive, intellectual and behavioral abilities that Allah has endowed him. Thus, a worldview is at once a mean and a fruit of human spiritual, cognitive, and behavioral efforts. The worldview perceptive can be human-made as well as Revelation based precept. Islamic worldview is a collective and based on ummatic unified. A worldview is similar to any other human ideas which is it develops according to their accumulated knowledge, historical events, and human experience and then it is implemented by the people. However, as far as the Islamic worldview is concerned, the fact of change takes significantly a different position. Although we are busy to achieve world’s mission of life, hereafter’s goal become significant and our priority to achieve it.REFERENCES* Lecture Notes  © Department of General Studies IIUM,2007- 2008. * The Islamic Worldview: Glimpse on Studies and Definitions,Abdelaziz Berghout,Introduction to the Islamic Worldview,Study of Seleceted Essentials,IIUM Press (2010). * Basic Principles of Islamic Worldview ,Sayyid Qutb Islamic Pubns Intl (September 15, 2005). Vidal, C. (2008) Wat is een wereldbeeld? (What is a worldview? ). * David Naugle: Worldview: The History of a Concept (Eerdmans, 2002). * Merriam –Webster 1994 (Britannica Encyclopedia 2001). * Contribution Of The Islamic Worldview Towards Corporate Governance Mohamed Asri, Mohamed Fahmi Msc Accounting Sem 2   2003 IIUM. * http://wikipedia. com/worldview/ * http://www. allaboutworldview. org/is lamic-worldview. htm * http://izat2009. blogspot. com/worldview * http://ungss. blogspot. com * http://web. usm. my/islamicworldview/

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Crimes of the Heart Essay

I choose Babe as the character that I would make a â€Å"through-line. † She has one of the more detailed and complex background stories. They are complex, because it is not extremely evident why they are significant. However, once one deeply analyzes her character, it becomes evident why these stories about her are so important in trying to understand Babe. Babe’s ultimate goal is to understand her complex reality. Unlike the other Magrath sisters, she has been deeply pondering the reason behind her mother’s suicide. She even goes so far as to think about it before each suicide attempt told in the novel. Each time, she feels closer to her mother due to her self-discoveries. For example, she is extremely happy to learn that her mother hung the old, yellow cat not out of hatred but out of fear of loneliness in the afterlife. She is also one of the few characters that try to understand Meg’s promiscuous and crazy personality. Babe describes the after affects Meg had after finding their mother dead. According to Babe, Meg would look at pictures of people diseased or in pain in order to prove that she was not weak. This desire to appear strong translated into other areas of Meg’s life. The way Babe tries to accomplish her goal of understanding her reality is by acting like a child. Babe sees the world through a child’s lens. She asks many questions, cannot control her emotions, and does not understand social norms. One example where she cannot control her emotions is when her sister is in the room and she tries to claw out the rope from the drawer. Rather than discreetly take the rope, she feels the need to claw it out and kill herself immediately. Similar to a child, she also does not understand social norms or their consequences. While Babe is pretty and has men after her such as the young lawyer, she prefers small children. Babe cares for and has sexual relations with a small boy, Willie Jae, who is only 15 years old. It seems she feels better connected with young children, versus adults her age. Additionally, Willie is African American. During such a time, having just contact between the two could have led to significant punishment for the both of them. Rather than simply understanding her situation, she appears oblivious to it. When Willie Jae must go north for protection, she asks why. It seems she does not completely understand the way certain races are viewed in society. Her act as a child saves her in the end. Her lawyer had a fanatical obsession with his personal vendetta against Zachary; however, he gave that up for her sake. He loved and cared for Babe’s child-like and kind personality. Babe has probably used her perceived child-like innocence before. As she tries to understand the world, her child-like characteristics both help her and are a detriment to her. Through-line: -Dad abandons her and her sisters Mother hangs herself in the cellar along with the old, yellow cat. Mother ends up on the national news -Grandfather calls her dancing sugarplum. -Marries Zachary while drunk. Grandfather believes she will become the top of society. -Is physically abused by her husband and pushed around by her sister-in-law, Lucille -Gets a dog called Dog from Willie Jae, 15 year-old African American boy. She has sexual intercourse in the garbage several times -Zachary comes home early and hits Willie Jae. Babe is suicidal, but instead tries to kill Zachary. Makes lemonade and then calls an ambulance.

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Sonny Blue - Research Paper Example Because it is not limited by fact, proof or dimension, fiction can focus on fundamental truths to a much greater degree as only those elements that speak to that truth need be used. The reader is then guided through a targeted message, where numerous elements combine to suggest the underlying nature of human existence. This capacity to reveal human nature within fiction is especially helpful when attempting to depict various ways of life, or aspects of social culture. Quality fiction, regardless of when it was written or the length of the written text, can reveal significant aspects of human nature and thus reveal us to ourselves as we identify various elements of the story with our everyday lives. Literature such as James Baldwin’s short story â€Å"Sonny’s Blues† illuminates the way in which the unique sounds of the black neighborhood serves as a sort of life-raft to the multi-faceted melody of the soul, symbolizing how individuals are different and communicati ng the extreme importance and value of listening. James Baldwin spent most of his adult life living in France, but is widely recognized as an essentially American writer. Having been born and raised in New York’s Harlem district, he was intimately familiar with the sights and sounds that appeared in his stories even though he’d put an entire ocean between them. Born in 1924 to an unmarried woman placed a stigma on his head that would continue to haunt him and cause friction between himself and his adoptive father, David Baldwin (Leeming, 1994). Although seen to attempt following the straight and narrow course outlined for him by his father in becoming a Pentecostal preacher at age 14, by the time he was 17 Baldwin had moved to the artist’s neighborhood of Greenwich Village and was beginning his writing career (Leeming, 1994). Inequality and hatred for his race and sexuality drove Baldwin to seek a more forgiving community and he moved to France, a move that would

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Japan's cultural environment - Essay Example In order to work and interact successfully in Japan, an understanding of its national culture is considered important. While businesses have been guided by Hofstede’s dimensions of national culture, this paper evaluates if changes have taken place since the 1960s and 1970s when data was collected by Hofstede. Hofstede defines culture as â€Å"the collective programming of the mind that distinguishes the members of one group or category of people from another†. Japan, with a PDI of 54, is a mildly hierarchical society. Power distance is the extent to which the less powerful members of the institutions expect that power is distributed unequally (Geert-Hofstede). However, the Japanese society is not as hierarchical as most Asian societies, according to Hofstede. Foreigners consider Japan as being extremely hierarchical because the decisions making goes through different layers of management but at the same time, this also demonstrates that there is no one single person in authority. In addition, Japan has been a meritocratic society and believes that everyone is born equal and anyone who is keen to attain higher levels of education, is free to do so, and move ahead. This is the degree to which the society maintains interdependence. Japan’s score of 46 suggests a collectivist society where the harmony of the group is more important than the individual opinions. People in such societies have a strong sense of shame in losing face. However, the Japanese society is not as collectivist as the Chinese society. This is because the Japanese do not have extended family system where collectivism is prevalent. The eldest son in Japanese families carries on the father’s name and inherits assets while the others have to leave home and find their own way in life. The Japanese are more loyal to their company or the organization to which they are attached than to the family. Thus, by western standards they are called collectivists but by Asian standards they are individualistic. Masculinity Index (MAS) Japan has a high score of 95 on this dimension which indicates it is one of the most masculine societies in the world. This, according to Hofstede suggests that the society will be driven by competition, achievement and success. However, the Japanese society does not demonstrate the behaviour expected in societies with high masculine scores, possibly because of their mild collectivist nature. There is severe competition but not between individuals; it is severe competition between groups which can be seen even at the primary school level. At the workplace also, employees are motivated when they are fighting against a team of competitors. The Japanese strive for excellence and perfection in

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Drainage Facility Design for Car Park - Essay Example A proper drainage facility should be designed to avoid any water logging situation in the park. The runoff from the car park will depend on the rainfall. Rainfall at a point varies significantly with change in season and occurance. Hence, it is utmost important to have sufficient information on the maximum rainfall in the area. By knowing the amount of water coming into the catchment of car park will determine the quantity of water flowing out from it. The water flowing out of the car park will also depend on the type of parking surface, water traps in the parking area and time of concentration. This will greatly influence the water flowing out to the sewers. The water coming into the parking area could be determined by use of various hydrological modelling and it is also possible to develop different scenarios of the same. World is facing serious problems due to changing climate scenario. This change is due to unplanned use of resources and pollution caused due to the same. Changing carbon concentration in atmosphere has affected the climate system. This has also resulted in ever increasing natural disasters throughout the world in the form of earthquakes, cyclones, flood, drought, tsunami etc. The frequency of less probable extreme events has increased and the world is facing serious problems to meet MDG. ... The frequency of less probable extreme events has increased and the world is facing serious problems to meet MDG. With globalization and technological advancement people are looking for coping mechanism to live with the shrinking resource base. A major impact of this climate change has been on the rainfall pattern. The frequency, intensity and duration of the rainfall in many parts of the world have changed significantly in the recent past. Flash floods, acid rains and high intensity rainfall is a unique feature. Surface hydrology depends largely on the precipitation pattern, it is important to estimate forecast to reduce damage. Water harvesting is an effective way to conserve water resources. Runoff from the parking area could be used in many ways. Normally, there is provision to collect this water and divert it into sewer for safe disposal. This water could also be used for storage and recharge purposes in the areas with less rainfall availability. Recharging of the aquifer by use of this water is a good idea. The major task while planning for these systems is to calculate the maximum rainfall for the region. Various methods are used in estimating the probable maximum rainfall for an area. 1. Construction and the use of IDF curves: Intensity-duration-frequency curves are used in determining the intensity of rainfall. It is commonly used to calculate the value of (I) in rational method. These curves are the graphical representation of the probability of occurance of a rainfall of average intensity. The rational method illustrates a proper application of IDF curve. IDF curves should not be used to obtain storm runoff volumes. The Intensity-Duration-Frequency curve is

Food Predicament Essay Example for Free

Food Predicament Essay 1. List three factors largely responsible for the significant increase in North American food production since the end of World War II. a. Population Growth b. Rising personal income 2. Describe the trends in world food production vis-a-vis population growth from 1950 to the present. There is more people to supply food than before. 3. To what extent does expanding the amount of land under cultivation offer hope for significantly increasing world food supply? Why? To permit unproductive lands to be farmed, making it possible to raise two to three crops a year on the same land. 4. List four reasons for the loss of currently productive agricultural land. a. erosion b. desertification c. salinization d. water-logging 5. What factors make it unlikely that ocean fish harvests can be increased substantially above present levels? Large predator fish, overexploitation by industrial fishing fleets has reduced stocks of some species. 6. List several changes in food-handling practices that poor countries could implement to prevent loss of harvested crops. Store grains in bins that may not be easily penetrated, have good refrigeration and have reliable transport for the food. 7. To what extent can eating lower on the food chain help to solve problems of world hunger? It will help until the population grows more and going vegetarian would not be possible. 8. Why are a number of relatively affluent countries purchasing farmland in other nations? What are the advantages and disadvantages of such purchases for the host country? Because of the productive soil their food will grow much better in each different region. Some advantages might be that they will have that food available for the consumers and some disadvantages might be that there is a climate change and loose the crop. B. Match the following deficiency diseases with the nutritional factor (shown below the table) whose absence provoked these conditions (you can use the factor or corresponding letter (a, b, .): 1. childhood blindness 2. marasmus 3. anemia 4. kwashiorkor 5. mental retardation 6. pellagra 7. scurvy 8. rickets 9. beri-beri a. protein b. fiber c. vitamin A d. vitamin Bl (thiamine) e. vitamin C f. vitamin D g. vitamin E h. niacin i. iodine j. iron k. overall calorie/protein shortage C. True/False. Indicate T or F in the space before each numbered question. If the statement is false, revise it below in the box provided to make a correct statement; focus your response on the words in bold. 1. As incomes rise, food demand increases because more affluent people eat larger quantities of food. 2. It is estimated that approximately a billion people in the world today are undernourished. 3.Within families in poor societies, adolescent boys are the most likely to suffer from malnutrition. 4. Overpopulation is the major cause of chronic hunger problems in the developing world. 5. In societies where hunger is widespread, the rate of malnutrition among children and women is much higher than it is among men. 6. Malnutrition is most harmful when it occurs among children under 5. 7. The damaging effects of childhood malnutrition are reversible if the child receives an adequate diet when he/she becomes older. 8. Malnourished women are likely to give birth to underweight babies and to produce poor quality breast milk. 9. Marasmus is responsible for more childhood deaths in developing countries than any other single cause. 10. The most common nutritional deficiency disease worldwide is kwashiorkor. 11. A swollen belly, discoloration of the hair and skin, and stunted physical development are all classic symptoms of overall protein/calorie deprivation. 12. The worlds single most important cause of preventable brain damage and mental retardation is Vitamin A deficiency. 13. Aquaculrure offers greater hope for increasing the worlds fish harvest than does intensifying efforts in ocean fishing. 14. World livestock production, which rose steadily from 1950-1990, has subsequently leveled off because of falling market demand for meat. 15. Anemia is a leading cause of high female mortality rates and problem pregnancies in many poor countries. 16. Aquaculture supplies almost all of the tuna fish found in American supermarkets. 17. Biotechnology can help reduce farmers reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides and may make it possible to cultivate lands currently too dry or too saline for farming. 18. Among species commonly raised to supply animal protein for human consumption, fish are the most efficient energy converters, requiring just 2-3 pounds of feed to gain one pound of flesh. 19. In sub-Saharan Africa, grain production has remained stagnant at about one ton/ hectare since the early 1960s. 20. Significant increases in agricultural production achieved by technological breakthroughs such as the miracle grains or genetically modified crop and livestock varieties will ensure that all the worlds people enjoy an adequate diet.

The Second World War Essay Example for Free

The Second World War Essay During the last phase of the Second World War, the rivalry between the United States and Soviet Russia became clearly discernible due to ideological conflict. While the Soviet Union accepted Marxism and intended to spread it over the world, the United States, as a champion of liberal democracy, adopted a policy of ‘containment of Marxian influence’ and ‘roll back’ communism. Thus, their ideological conflict soon resulted in a political confrontation. As time passed, this conflict ripened into an enmity and, on occasions, it seemed that another global war was imminent. Though such a war did not, in reality break out tension and rivalry gradually reached the boiling point. This is known as cold war. This is, in a word, a ‘brinkmanship’ which means that the tension may, at any moment, burst into an actual war. So, war was avoided, but at every moment, it seemed that war was in the offing. This is not war, but not yet peace – it is like twilight zone, because the armed peace could at any time result in an actual violent war. The Origin of ‘Cold War’ The relation between what Fredrick Schumann calls ‘Marx Land’ and ‘Freeland’ has been far from cordial and even hostile at the end of World War II. This was, according to some scholars due to the division of the world into two camps – one led by the Soviet Union and another by the USA. This bi – polar interpretation of world politics failed to take into consideration the existence of neutral nation likes India, Indonesia, Egypt and other states which have disassociated themselves from joining in any one of the camps mentioned above. Moreover, the division in ‘Marx Land’ for instances the difference between Russia and China, and in the Freeland, for instance, between France and USA, were left out of consideration by those who accepted the bi – polar approach gained group, because of the all embracing character of a total war. The development of modern technology and the discovery of ‘A’ and ‘H’ bomb had virtually excluded the scope of neutrality in case if two giants USA and USSR enter into armed conflict. The destructive and devastating character of a modern warfare had left very little scope for neutrality because of the determination of each party to win the war might lead them to violate the national sovereignty of others. But, in the meanwhile the rivalry of giants had left scope for even small states like Yugoslavia to maneuver their position and maintain neutrality. Moreover, the monopoly of the secrets of ‘Atomic Power’ was no longer confined to USA and USSR. They no longer commanded absolute control in their own camp. France and China had not only acquired the ‘A’ bomb but also we determined to be the makers of their own policy. The existence of the neutral nations in which most of the Afro – Asian states belong has served as a check on the rivalry between the giants. What is Cold War? The ‘Cold War’ was kept alive by the rivalry of Soviet bloc and Western bloc to gain the hegemony of the world. The Western bloc looked upon the communist countries as totalitarian states and the neutrals as misguided. The communist countries on the other hand considered the capitalist states as seeking to exploit the underdeveloped countries for profit and frantically trying to maintain their hold over areas producing raw materials. Their mutually opposing views had produced rivalry in the post – World War II period. This had not led to actual war, but had produced local undeclared wars on a limited scale. The familiar portrait of the Cold War for mastery globe, however, had not prevented contact between the West and the communist world. ‘The diplomacy of coexistence’ as Mr. Schumann puts it and the rise of the neutral nations in Afro – Asian countries had increasingly acted as a brake upon the rivalry generated by the competition of giants. But the ‘Cold War’ was kept alive by the fear of the capitalist world about the ultimate motive of Soviet expansion and desire to attack the capitalist countries. From the point of view of the communist countries the opposite camp intended to destroy ‘Marx land’. Both the ‘Worlds’ were desirous of peace because the alternative to co – existence in the ‘Atomic Age’ is co – destruction. Therefore, the cold war and the illusion from which both the capitalist and the communist world suffered had cooled down. The ‘Cold War’ is different from shooting war. Freedman aptly defines it in the following statement, â€Å"in short there is some reason to believe that the ‘Cold War’ is not a necessary preparatory phase for a ‘hot war’, but a new technique of warfare†. Diametrically Opposite Perceptions of World Situation during Post – War Period After the end of the Second World War the United States insisted on keeping her the secrets of the eminent and responsible American statement, e. g. Governor Earl of Pennsylvania about the need of waging a punitive war against the Soviet Union while latter was without nuclear teeth, convinced the Russians as to the United States implacable enmity against them. The United States had not only the atom bomb, but also the world’s strongest navy, and global ring of strategic air bases while her position in West Germany and Japan brought her close to the Soviet frontiers. The abrupt termination of lend – lease aid and the rejection of a Soviet request for a post war reconstruction loan further deepened Soviet Union’s suspicion of American goodwill. Under Yalta agreement the Western Powers accepted Soviet claims to Germany’s territory and the Polish boundary in return for the Soviet assurance about the holding of free elections in East European countries. After the end of the World War II each side began to complain about other’s bad faith. The West resented what they called the Sovietization of the East European countries. The Soviet leaders on the other hand complained that while the United States demanded and received freehand in the areas under her control e. g. , Japan, she refused the same privilege to Russians in the areas under their sphere. Thus, cold war is kept alive by the rivalry of these Super Powers to gain the hegemony of the world. Ideological Conflicts The ideological factor made Soviet foreign policy more complex though by no means an enigma. Stalin stood for the policy of ‘Socialism in one country’. But after the end of the World War II a ring of friendly socialist states of Eastern Europe was deemed to be necessary for the security of the Soviet Union and communist fatherland. After the war Stalin the Soviet premier began to regard all non – communist countries as either ‘hostile capitalist’ states plotting to encircle and destroy the Soviet Union or as the lackeys of imperialist capitalist states. Viewed in the light Stalinism and democracy became mutually irreconcilable. The conflict between the two super powers has often been described as the inevitable duel between rival ideologies – democracy and dictatorship. No doubt many Americans genuinely disapprove of communism on account of its rejection of parliamentary democracy and human rights. Similarly, the communists hate democracy as synonymous with capitalist exploitation of the masses and imperialism. The conflict of values and is not the real reason behind the cold war but the conviction of the US government that communism is an international movement whose expansion means an accession of strength to Soviet Union. On the other hand the Soviet government firmly believed that the undoubted resurgence of West German nationalism and close US Japanese collaboration constituted a threat to the safety and integrity of Russia. Implications of Cold War The cold war had far – reaching implications in the international affairs. In the first instance it gave rise to a fear psychosis which resulted in mad race for the manufacture of more sophisticated armaments. Both the power blocs tried to acquire more and more sophisticated weapons. This set in motion a mad race for armaments. Secondly, cold war led to the formation of various alliances during the peace times. Both the blocs formed alliance and counter alliances to counterbalance the growing power of the opponent. Some of the alliances which were thus formed include NATO, SEATO, CENTO, War show Pact etc. this existence of these alliances added to world tension. Thirdly, a large number of nations of Asia, Africa and Latin America after attainment of independence decided to keep away from the military alliances sponsored and supported by the two super powers. Instead they preferred to follow policy of non-alignment. Thus, I can be said that the emergence of policy of non-alignment. Thus, it can be said that the emergence of policy of non-alignment is also the direct outcome of the cold war. Fourthly, cold war greatly undermined the chances of attaining the goal of one world. On account of mutual rivalry the two super powers were not willing to trust each other and often took opposite stands at the United Nations. This often resulted in blocking entry of certain members to the United Nations. It is well known that United States did not permit People’s Republic of China to take its seat in the United Nations only because China was a camp follower of Soviet Union. This prevented the United Nations from attaining universal character and jeopardized the chances of evolving one world. Fifthly, the mad race for armament which was the logical outcome of the prevailing cold war between two power blocs resulted in diversion of enormous amounts to acquisition of sophisticated weapons. This adversely affected the development of the states, and prevented improvement in the living standards of the people. Finally, cold war rendered the United Nations ineffective because both the Super Power tried to oppose the action in Greece, Trieste etc. because she distrusted the Western Powers. Likewise United States made use of its veto power on the question of Red China’s membership of United Nations. Conclusion But, from the beginning of the 1960s, cold war had been in the wane. A growing detente between the Soviet Union and the United States during the time John Kennedy and Nikita Khrushchev eased the mutual relationship between these two super powers. Moreover, the emergences of some non aligned countries like India, Egypt, Indonesia, Ghana, Sri Lanka etc. strengthened the peace-force and they intended to bring two super powers in close relations. Moreover, China’s distance from the Soviet Union and the disunity in the American camp also materially changed the international situation. Above all, the collapses of the Soviet Union and Sino-American detente have materially altered the international relationship. Thus, it is beyond any iota of doubt that, in such situation, the cold war which emerged during the closing years of the Second World War cannot contain the same significance which it evoked during its birth.

A Small Business Manager as A Leader

A Small Business Manager as A Leader Outline In the 21st century era, small and large, private and public businesses are all aiming towards economic growth. However, this growth has slowed following emergence of unprincipled leaders whose main aim has been satisfaction of individual needs as opposed to their employees and customers. With such unethical practices, it is obvious that a strong impact has been witnessed in economic growth, which boils down to declining capital investments and unemployment for small businesses. Emergence of economic uncertainty can be traced back to WorldCom and e-business sector failure (Luthans, Luthans, Hodgetts, Luthans 2001)1 . Before the famous 9/11 attack, United States economy was already declining following increased unemployment and reduced consumer spending. This condition was further worsened by the 9/11 attack that resulted in increased uncertainty in economic change (Shaw Shapiro 2002)2. These changes have challenged the need for leadership and management at all levels of business fo cusing on ensuring nothing but absolute success. For leadership and management to achieve these roles, there is need for redefinition from the commonly held perspective. Management and leadership are two terms that are commonly and differently used in small businesses and importantly in rejuvenating a dwindling economy. To some people, these terms are seen as synonyms and hence used frequently and interchangeably. From other perspectives, these words are perceived as two different business approaches. Those identifying these terms as extremes maintain the possibility of an individual being a bad manager and good leader simultaneously. Others have resided somewhere between the terms insisting that while management and leadership inherently presents two different business approaches, it is possible to navigate in both positions for a successful business. In modern business environment, businesses whether small or large- will importantly require effective managers and effective leaders if any operation is going to be regarded as successful. While some perspectives argue that their contributions to organizational success vary, it is conclusively understood that management and leadership will apparently contribute positively towards any business success. For the purpose of this article, management and leadership are understood differently. Whether utilized simultaneously or differently, many businesses will give a precise testimony of significant impacts that leadership and management have on any successful business. Therefore, the main objective here is not to evaluate how the two terms vary, but rather how they contribute to success of small business. This essay will hence understand the fundamental characterizations of management and leadership, the components of effective leadership and management in small scale businesses and thei r underlying theoretical perspectives. Ideally with appropriate training, it is possible for managers and leaders to develop a successful small scale business. Leadership versus management In any small scale business, adopting an entrepreneurial spirit is perceived as critical for economic growth, enterprise growth, and overall nation wellbeing. Therefore in these entrepreneurs, the passion is motivated towards ensuring development of businesses that will outline success. As this business is continually natured, the aim is providing the best services and products at friendly prices that can easily be afforded by their customers. Therefore, without even contemplating on what constitutes leadership and management, business developers embark on a journey that is entirely perceived to be geared towards the overall goal. Ironically, these business leaders or managers hardly possess appropriate expertise, background, and desire of managing their businesses in a strategic manner. Leadership and management are important for success and hence if undermined, these businesses are likely to eventually fall or fail to achieve the overall objectives (Kouzes Posner 2007)3. Kouzes and Posner (2007) understand leadership as a process that enables a group member to influence fellow members towards achieving a common goal. Further, the same authors explain that while indeed there exists various leadership styles, there are particular leadership components that will inherently exist in all these definitions. These varying definitions will undeniably agree that leadership is a process; it incorporates influence, involves attainment of a well labeled goal, and occurs in a group context. Hence, regardless of how leadership is operationalized, these aspects will undeniably play a contributing role in the utilized theory and definition of leadership. From a different perspective, Kouzes and Posner (2007) argue that management is understood from varying definitions. Conversely, this does not imply that both management and leadership roles cannot be held by one individual, but management is perceived to follow a definition quite different from leadership. Management definition incorporates supervisory, administrative, and executive direction of an organization or group. Therefore, management and leadership are perceived to share numerous similarities. For instance, going by the understanding of Gordon and Yukl (2004), both leadership and management are ways of impacting influence and collaborating with people for achievement of the overall goal. However, management and leadership fields can also be observed to be different. In Kotlers leadership theory, leadership is an old concept that has been employed in business for many centuries. Management on the other hand is a concept that has been developed over the last 100 years as a result of industrial transformation. Kotlers perspective is undeniably shared by many scholars when it comes to understanding leadership and management. For instance, according to theorists Nanus Bennis as qtd. by Gordon Yukl (2004), management is perceived to be an approach through which activities are accomplished in such a way that routines can be mastered. Leading hence implies influencing others and development of a vision through which change may be enhanced. Rost (Chemers, 2002)4 on the other side understands leadership as a relationship with multidisciplinary influence while management is perceived to be authoritarian leadership that is lined towards one direction. Chemers (2002) adds that leadership and management are two different business approaches that should be h andled by different individuals. Moreover, an overlap exists in the two fields. For instance, when management activities are aimed at assisting employees to achieve organizational goals, this form of management is observed to be operating under leadership. As the leaders are involved in features such as organizing, planning, controlling, and staffing, they are observed to be operating under management. This is a simple indication that these two aspects will undeniably involve interchanging and similar roles and hence can hardly be fully isolated. Literature review In the United States, a larger section of economy is mainly centered on small businesses. In small businesses, leaders have used various approaches that have been employed to enhance organizational positioning in such a way that these business objectives and goals can be achieved (Howard, 2006)5. Based on the fact that economic condition has been a major concern, this market has witnessed a rapidly changing demand for small business. According to Pellerins (2007) perception, small businesses are individually owned and operated, hence hardly dominate in their field of operation. The last three decades have seen United States, among other global nations, witness a dominant development of small businesses (Kuratko, 2007)6. These small businesses have, in United States, resulted to the GDP growth by more than half, serving as a main source of job creation through incorporation of more than 50 of the workforce. Therefore from studies, it is apparent that when it comes to the economic growth, small businesses are hardly detachable. From the United States Census (2005) statistics, 13.3 million United States organizations were registered as small scale businesses by the year 2004. The small business increase has come as a boost to economic growth and as a means of employment creation. Growth in small businesses has been linked to economic improvement and most importantly creation of new employment. According to Kurakto (2007), small business growth has been attributed to increased competition, profitability, and well framed organization goals. In order for these achievements to be enhanced, Kurakto (2007) has noted the importance of effective leadership. However, this has not always been the case because as earlier highlighted; poor leadership is inherent in many small businesses. Beaver (2003) and Perry (2001)7 affirms that one of the reasons for failure in much small business is simply because of poor leadership. Based on this understanding, Gordon and Yulk (2004) have mainly targeted their reteach in understanding important leadership skills that affect small scale environment. More than two decades ago, Beaver (2003) analyzed 200 small scale businesses that had recorded bankruptcy. From the study, it was clearly observed that the main reason behind failure of small business was management neglect, and lack of knowledge on leadership. Therefore, if these small businesses have to be successful, it is important to incorporate leadership styles. As Pellerin (2007) observes, the rate of failure in small businesses is high. This author observes that by the end of the third year, the rate of failure hits more than 62% in many small businesses. However, this study does not incorporate another burning issue: management incompetence. Scheers and Radipere (2007) add that within the first ten years of business operation, 90% of small business fail. These authors strongly agree that failure in these businesses is mainly caused by poor skills in management and leadership. As a result, for any economy to be successful, small business have to be competitive and productive (Beaver 2003)8. For any economic growth, the central role of small businesses can hardly be undermined. For these businesses, leadership and management skills should be understood as main steps towards increased returns. These skills are well incorporated in different theoretical perspectives. From various authors, leadership has been understood differently although th ere is a common agreement in these varying perspectives. Leadership has always been perceived to be a process through which one person is able to support and aid others to accomplish common tasks. Through leadership, a way is created through which contribution is enhanced by ensuring that extraordinary things are implemented (Pellerin 2007). In addition, if these leaders have to be successful, they should importantly portray internal control locus. Charismatic leadership Charisma in leadership is highlighted and defined in numerous ways. It is however perceived to be an exemplary character that is natured in an individual person. According to Kouzes and Posner (2007)9, charismatic leadership is perceived as a behavioral inclination of leaders that result in development of exceptionally strong relationship between leaders and their followers. For these charismatic leaders, Robbins and Coutler (2003) has highlighted three exceptional leadership characteristics which are; expression of high confidence, strong convictions, and dominance in their beliefs. The same authors also add that these charismatic leaders should be able to demonstrate optimism, determination and confidence, and collective ability of accomplishing mission and realizing the vision. These authors arguably add that these leaders are also required to engender trust as well as the ability to take personal risks to prove that their approach is indeed justified. Therefore, there is a high l ikelihood of charismatic leaders focusing to develop a clear and distinct group. Charismatic leadership has a high likelihood of being found in emerging and struggling small businesses than in stable and successful organizations. Emphasizing on the importance of this leadership, Kouzes and Posner (2007) have highlighted five important attributes that must be found in any leader to be categorized as charismatic. They are: (1) Articulation and vision; (2) Sensitivity to the needs of employees; (3) Personal risk taking; (4) Sensitivity to the business environment in which the business is operating; and (5) Execution of progressive behavior. Schermerhorn (2005) has summarized charismatic leaders as leaders or managers who are capable of sparking a sense of belonging towards the business. In addition, these leaders have been able to inspire their employees towards a direction in which organizational objectives and goals may be achieved (Schermerhorn 2005)10. Transformational leadership According to Pryor et al. (2007)11, transformational leaders are able to impact movement and change in their organization. Such leaders are able to seek ways of altering the prevailing structure while ensuring that people are continuously convinced to support new responsibilities and vision. For the excellent transformational leaders, power and authority is utilized as motivational and inspirational tools to the people they follow and trust. This leadership is hence able to provide energy producing characteristics through which new changes are likely to be generated in a business. Furthermore, these leaders are capable of motivating followers to transcend their individual interests for other combined purposes while at the same time ensuring that these followers are assisted to increasingly satisfy their individual needs. Pryor et al. (2007) have revealed inner transformational leadership characteristics in small business. These characteristics are highlighted to be inclusive of hones ty, integrity, and personal values. These characteristics are positively influential to the leaders behavior. For effective performance, a major ingredient is connection of transformational leadership with life experiences. This inner connection is combined with the resulting behaviors do develop external behaviors through which a business is transformed. For instance, a group vision is produced by a sense of personal involvement. Management models Conventionally, small businesses have been seen to have a low likelihood of utilizing strategic management models in comparison to large organizations based on a number of reasons. They are: (1) Small businesses are in most cases owned at the family level; (2) The leaders in small businesses are in most cases focused on daily operations thereby paying minimal-if any- attention to strategic management systems and management models; (3) Small businesses are mainly less endowed in financial resources that can comfortably be utilized in improving business performance through training; and (4) Competitors at their levels apply similar business approaches, without incorporation of any managerial models and implementation of systems through which improvement can be enhanced. Additionally, entrepreneurs involved in development of small business are hardly interested in development of procedures and processes. On the other side, large organizations obviously incorporate people with a clear understanding of management models by the time they have completed their studies in colleges. Moreover, these organizations have large amounts of finances that can resourcefully be allocated to training. Large scale businesses compete with large business opponents that are competitively and strategically driven. Strategic management approach This approach was initially developed by Toombs, White, and Pryor (1998) with a perception that small scale business leaders or managers incorporate strategic management elements in their business. This ideal incorporates the SWOT analysis together with the vision, mission, objectives, goals, values, competitive advantage, critical success factors, measurement, and feedback. Various theorists strongly insist that strategic management is an important aspect for a small business targeting enhancement of quality initiatives. Numerous authors have mostly insisted that as a result of incorporating various business theories, models, standards, tools, strategies, surveys, and training, it becomes possible for small businesses to be improved. These theorists mainly insist on the need for integrating quality initiatives into the organizations strategic management (Pryor et al. 2007)12. As a way of creating additional emphasis on this point, Chemers (2002) explain that total quality management must be linked to the strategy of a business because most strategies incorporate goals. Chemers also adds that TQM must be guided by a senior team in management and project selection must be based on their importance when it comes to achieving success in a business. Robbins and Coulter (2003)13 supports the perception above. However, they argue that customer impact must be integrated with strategic management as a way of achieving the desired results. Model While strategic management theory is perceived to be a model that should be incorporated by business leaders for long term success and survival, this model hardly incorporates the 5Ps model that was established by Pryor (1998)14. The strategic management model and strategic direction establishment is perceived to be incorporated in one of the five rudiments that should importantly be adopted to enhance a business success. For pneumonic purposes, this business approach has mainly been referred to as Purpose. The remaining elements are performance, people, processes, and principles. The 5Ps model is perceived to have some elements that are similar to those found in strategic management model that has earlier been examined. However, these elements have additional importance besides their individual importance. Moreover, their alignment is perceived to be equally important. Business leadership approaches Trait approach to leadership Trait approach is developed from great man model as an approach through which key characteristics can be identified for successful leaders. This approach is centered on the perception that through this approach, it is possible for leadership approaches to be isolated. Therefore, individuals possessing such traits can be selected, recruited, and installed into the positions of leadership. This theory has resulted in development of numerous traits. After numerous years characterized with continuous research, it is apparently hard to identify consistent traits. Although some traits have been found in various studies, these studies results have been inconclusive. It is possible for some leaders to possess certain traits. However, in case these traits are not present in an individual, this is not sufficient reason to disqualify such a person as a leader. In order to qualify an individual as effective leader, various traits should be processed. Nevertheless, there is a high likelihood of s ome traits to be more frequently observed than others. Some of the commonly observed traits in an effective leader are inclusive of friendliness, technical skills, task motivation, supportiveness to group tasks, emotional control, social skills, intelligence, and general charisma. Behavioral leadership The trait studies results were not conclusive. The inconclusiveness is based on the perception that it is hard to measure traits amongst other things. For instance, it is hard to measure such traits such as integrity, diligence, loyalty, and honesty. This inconclusiveness is what has challenged development of behavioral model. In this model, the focus is based on human relationships alongside performance and output. In McGregors theory Y and theory X managers, it is observed that an average individual is more likely to develop an inherent work dislike and will make all efforts possible to avoid working. In theory X, it is observed that this individual characteristic is highly likely to provoke the need for controlling, coercing, or even threatening individuals if they are to be encouraged to make efforts required for organizational goal achievement. Theory X is also based on the perception that an average individual highly prefers being directed as a way of avoiding responsibility. In theory Y, the managers believe that mental or physical effort expenditure is as natural as rest and play. In addition, the managers believe that employees are likely to exercise self-control and self-direction as a way of achieving the objectives that define their commitment. Moreover, the ability of exercising high level of ingenuity, imagination, and creativity in organization problem solution is widely (as oppos ed to being narrowly) disseminated in the people and human being potentials. From this theory, it is possible to conclude that theory X leader is more drawn towards an autocratic approach while theory Y leader is more drawn towards a participative style. In the managerial grid, developed through collaboration of Jane Mouton and Robert Blake, the focus has mainly been drawn to managers, employees (people), and task (production) orientation together with a combination of concerns between these two limits. Mouton and Brake model therefore suggest that team management, a major concern to production and employee, is the most effective leadership approach. Situational or contingency leadership approach to business Even as behavioral model is likely to assist management in a business when it comes to development of a specific leadership behavior, little guidance is given in understanding the constituents of effective leadership in varying situations. Undeniably, most modern researchers conclusively agree that indeed there exists no one appropriate leadership style for every manager under all settings. Therefore, development of contingency models was aimed at indicating that the utilized style is dependent upon such aspects as the people, the situation, and business among other surrounding variables. In contingency approach, it is understood that there hardly exists one specific approach through which managers can be able to lead. As a result of situations, varying leadership requirements are likely to be created for a leader. For this leadership situation, the solution is dependent on the factors affecting the situation. For instance, in a high routine environment characterized with repetitive tasks, a comparatively directive management approach it likely to yield best results. However, a more participative approach will be required in a dynamic environment. Building a successful business According to Howard (2006)15, business performance is perceived to be a multifaceted construct incorporating customer, operational, and financial oriented performance domains. The non-financial measures are inherent in Howard study. This performance measurement approach is incorporated as a result of limitation connected with small businesses financial data measurement. The satisfaction of the owners through performance of business is perceived to be one significant success indicators. Small business success is defined as performance level equal to or exceeding the firms owner expectations. The indicators that have mainly been employed in performance measurement are: profitability, annual earnings, and return on investments. Standards of a small business The small business standards have been developed by Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) (2007) in collaboration with the management consultants. This is a business model that is perceived to be important for managers targeting continuous growth in their business. Designing of the small business standards is aimed to be utilized in various investments that include small and medium size businesses, and micro businesses (CQI 2007). In the places where management term is utilized to imply micro business, it is likely to imply the proprietor. In the standard business model, there are nine main sections: (1) Customer care; (2) Business reviews; (3) Employees and staff; (4) management responsibility; (5) suppliers; (6) processes and work environment; (7) Correction and prevention of services complications; (8) Records; and (9) Documentation. While the standard is mainly perceived to be simplistic in comparison to the 5Ps model and Strategic management model, it incorporates numerous small bus iness management key ingredients. Therefore for small businesses, it is likely to be a good starting point as the business moves towards management and improvement of its organization (CQI, 2007)16. In relation to the small businesses standards application, one British Standards Institute website has observed that it is possible for real business standards to be achieved by small scale businesses. If this approach is well utilized, it hence has a high likelihood of resulting in: (1) elimination of inefficiencies witnessed when it comes to allocation of already limited resources; (2) improvement of marketing speed and risk reduction; and (3) enhancement of an effective competition with bigger businesses (British Standards Institute 2007)17. From the general leadership perspective, it is apparent that indeed success or failure in results production will mainly depend on leaders character. For these leaders to be viewed as effective, they have to be viewed as essential for the business success. However, the achievement of organizational success will not depend on adoption of similar leadership styles in all organizations. Nonetheless, these leaders will have an influential role on how the organizational goals are to be achieved by the employees in the organization. For this to be enhanced, small business leaders will require advanced understanding of the leadership styles to portray progress and development in achievement of organizational objectives and goals. With small business research, these leaders will be provided with understanding of leadership activities that are necessary for specific position if achievement of organizational objectives and goals is to be enhanced. These businesses will hence have to establish working environment for their business; this will be enhanced through leadership style. For organizational effectiveness, leadership will obviously have an important role. If employee empowerment will not be fulfilled in these organizations, there will be a high likelihood of employee dissatisfaction that will undeniably divert from achievement of organizational objectives and goals. Therefore, if a healthy working environment has to be maintained in these businesses, leadership should play an integral role. Conclusion The theoretical underpinnings evaluated in this article clearly demonstrate need for robust leadership existence in any small business. The failure of these businesses is indeed due to failure to adopt the necessary and fundamental requisites of a successful organization; effective leadership and management skills. This essay is very relevant; for instance in the current economic conditions that desperately require an influential intervention. Leadership hence should be trailed towards ensuring employee satisfaction and effectiveness as a way through organizational success and profitability will be enhanced. Consequently, robust leadership will eventually affect the success and profitability of small business. The way through which this will be enhanced is through incorporation of leadership and management theories analyzed in this essay. These leadership and management hence need to be employee motivation towards adaptation of organizational vision and mission. References 1(Luthans, Luthans, Hodgetts, Luthans 2001) 2(Shaw Shapiro 2002) 3(Kouzes Posner 2007) 4(Chemers, 2002) 5(Howard, 2006) 6(Kuratko, 2007) 7 Beaver (2003) and Perry (2001) 8(Beaver 2003) 9 Kouzes and Posner (2007) 10 Schermerhorn (2005) 11 Pryor et al. (2007) 12 White, and Pryor (1998) 13 Robbins and Coulter (2003) 14 established by Pryor (1998) 15 According to Howard (2006) 16(CQI, 2007) 17 (British Standards Institute 2007)

Symbols of Military Identity Essay -- Symbols Symbolism Military Essay

At the United States Air Force Academy, the first experience of a new cadet is the loss of personal "stuff" and hence individual identity. All material possessions — those that signify individual identity, safety or relationship -- are taken from the cadet and replaced by "stuff" which indicate membership in the cadet wing. Clothing, jewelry, wallet, even hair, disappear as indexes of membership in an economic group. Pictures and address books vanish as symbols of connection with social groups in the broader world. Watches and calendars and money, reminders of being and safety, have no relevance as cadets move into the "other world" of the academy grounds. Replacement "stuff" is utilitarian. Clothing is functional and suits its intended purpose to shelter and protect with a well-researched efficiency indicative of the military frame of mind. The clothing is easily cleaned and sanitized. It is even named in a military way — shirt, nonflying, blue; gloves, dress, white — indicating its function as well as obvious characteristics. It is most importantly uniform. The not so subtle message is that all people are identical, in purpose and value, except for a name. The clothing is at first bare, like the personality-stripped human who wears it, but gradually it acquires ornamentation and indicates a new identity for the wearer. USAF Academy emblems appear first as cadets begin to see themselves as a real part of the academy system. Individual units identified by color, red, blue, yellow, etc, begin to work together. They build their bodies and their skills in these groups and as groups. They struggle, survive and triumph as a unit. Those who choose or are chosen to leave do so quietly without contact with the group as they depart... ... This symbol of individual recognition, honor, and respect will continue with them throughout their careers. It is probably not incidental that cadets, even in basic training, retain names rather than, say, numbers. As long as he has his name, the cadet remains an individual. This is essential to the military structure for "good name", honor, integrity can exist only when the individual exists. The military officer, despite this temporary subjugation to the group, is always personally responsible for his actions, and responsible to each individual under his command. The symbolic structure of the uniform which unites, the insignia which are indexes of achievements and relationships, the name tag and salute which signify recognition of the individual are in combination symbolic of the tension between group and individual identity which is vital to the military. Symbols of Military Identity Essay -- Symbols Symbolism Military Essay At the United States Air Force Academy, the first experience of a new cadet is the loss of personal "stuff" and hence individual identity. All material possessions — those that signify individual identity, safety or relationship -- are taken from the cadet and replaced by "stuff" which indicate membership in the cadet wing. Clothing, jewelry, wallet, even hair, disappear as indexes of membership in an economic group. Pictures and address books vanish as symbols of connection with social groups in the broader world. Watches and calendars and money, reminders of being and safety, have no relevance as cadets move into the "other world" of the academy grounds. Replacement "stuff" is utilitarian. Clothing is functional and suits its intended purpose to shelter and protect with a well-researched efficiency indicative of the military frame of mind. The clothing is easily cleaned and sanitized. It is even named in a military way — shirt, nonflying, blue; gloves, dress, white — indicating its function as well as obvious characteristics. It is most importantly uniform. The not so subtle message is that all people are identical, in purpose and value, except for a name. The clothing is at first bare, like the personality-stripped human who wears it, but gradually it acquires ornamentation and indicates a new identity for the wearer. USAF Academy emblems appear first as cadets begin to see themselves as a real part of the academy system. Individual units identified by color, red, blue, yellow, etc, begin to work together. They build their bodies and their skills in these groups and as groups. They struggle, survive and triumph as a unit. Those who choose or are chosen to leave do so quietly without contact with the group as they depart... ... This symbol of individual recognition, honor, and respect will continue with them throughout their careers. It is probably not incidental that cadets, even in basic training, retain names rather than, say, numbers. As long as he has his name, the cadet remains an individual. This is essential to the military structure for "good name", honor, integrity can exist only when the individual exists. The military officer, despite this temporary subjugation to the group, is always personally responsible for his actions, and responsible to each individual under his command. The symbolic structure of the uniform which unites, the insignia which are indexes of achievements and relationships, the name tag and salute which signify recognition of the individual are in combination symbolic of the tension between group and individual identity which is vital to the military.

Elduc In 2000 :: essays research papers

Eliduc In 2000 Sarah DeMoranville Prof. Gardner Ancient World Ren. Love in 20th century is entirely different from when Marie De France lived. In her time, she wrote a sweet story of two women who love the same man, Eliduc. He leaves his wife, Guildeluec to go fight in another country even though she is devastated by his decision. During his excursion he ends up with a younger woman named Guilliadun. The two fall madly in love. Ultimately, Guildeluec detects the affair and behaves with not a shread of jealousy or desire for revenge. The way she tells the story is surprisingly peaceful considering Eliduc lies to both women. However, my version of Eliduc, is written in 2000 mode. The society has metamorphosed into a chaotic blend of moral dysfunction. Many are unwilling to mend broken relationships. Instead, they choose to lie, cheat and deceive those who have been faithful and true to them. The repercussions of these betrayals are far more nauseating than Guildeluec’s reaction to Eliduc’s affair. Beware, if you loved Marie’s version this might be too intense for some readers. First, the names of the characters are a bit more modern than the monograms Marie used. Now, Eliduc is called Eli, Guildeluec is Gail and Guilliadun is Jill. Here is how the story goes in 2000. Eli and Gail were together all through high school. They eventually got married because their love had grown into a bond of true friendship and love. The two-shared happiness but Eli would focus the majority of his time on his career. Gail accepted Eli’s ambition and never really gave him trouble about it. She had enough to do between work and home. Besides, Eli was a good policeman. He always took pride in his work and the chief always favored him. He treated him special. One day Eli came home from work exasperated because some of the other guys on the force were jealous of Eli. He told Gail "they told the chief I sell and use drugs!" "I can’t believ e this, now the chief wants me gone." Gail said, "oh sweetheart, we can work this out. Things will be fine. We have enough money with my salary at the hospital to last us until the chief comes around. I could even ask some of the other nurses if I can pick up another shift" Eli answered, "I am going away for a while.

Lincoln Electric Case Study :: GCSE Business Management BTEC Coursework

Lincoln Electric Case Study The Lincoln Electric Company is the world’s largest manufacturer of arc welding products and a leading producer of industrial electric motors. Their key competency is achieving higher worker productivity. Every year the company has seen high profits and bonuses. Employee morale and productivity remains very good and employees are very loyal to the company. The company also puts customers goals as top priority. Organization Structure This is a very organic organization. They do not have a formal organization chart in this company because they want to ensure maximum flexibility. They have an open-door policy in which employees take problems to the people that are most capable of solving them. Routine supervision is almost nonexistent. Lincoln has a fairly flat organization in which there are usually two or three levels of supervision between production workers and the president. Employees are evaluated on quality, dependability, ideas and cooperation, and output. They also have great job security, while also being able to participate in decision-making. Problem identification Lincoln Electric does not really seem to have any big problems in their current operations while working under an organic structure, but one problem seems to be the lack of attention that the stockholders get. At Lincoln, the stockholders are given last priority. The whole philosophy behind this is that they think that it will be more profitable than investing money in any other way. Alternatives considered Alternatives for this company is to work towards making some of their activities mechanistic while keeping some functions organic. The other alternative is to keep the company going as is with no change. If there is no problem to be fixed, than don’t try fixing it, since it will result in more problems. Once some Harvard Business School researchers made up an organization chart for the company and the management felt that it had a disruptive effect. One big item that they want to consider is to pay a little more attention to the stockholders, which are financing the company. Alternatives selected and rationale The alternative selected is to keep the company going like it is with the organic structure.

Family Business Essay

Family business are businesses that are created from their founding fathers of that era, if may evolve from small businesses into big enterprises. Family business is playing a very important part in the economy of Malaysia; the reason is that more than half of the Gross Domestic Product of Malaysia is from the family businesses that are conducted in Malaysia. For example The Genting group and The Berjaya group are two of the most famous family businesses that are conducted in Malaysia. The following are the issues and challenges that are faced by family businesses in Malaysia. The first challenge and issue that affects family businesses in Malaysia is succession planning which is choosing the next successor for the business after the current successor retires or passed away. Choosing a successor is one of the biggest challenges and is often faced by family businesses in Malaysia. Choosing a successor is hard because there are many factors that need to be considered before delegating him or her to be the successor of the family business. The first factor is of course the capability of the potential successor, to see whether he or she is up to standard andable to handle the responsibility that is about to be passed onto to see whether they qualify for the position. The second factor is that the potential successor must have certain amount of knowledge about the business and must know every part of operation of the business in details. The potential successor must also have very good management skills and have a good relationship with everyone involved in the business in order to have smoother process when sharing business ideas. The second challenge and issue that affects the family businesses in Malaysia is family disputes which is the harmony between family members and also within the business. The reason why it is one of the challenges and issues is because some of the family members or people involved in the business are always jealous of each other, or they are angry because of the decisions made which they are unfair, which will then results in political issues happening in the business which can greatly affect the outcome of the business, and sometimes it may be serious until it can tear down the whole business. So that is why it is very hard to keep the family and business at harmony all the time. However, if they are able to do so, it will help improve the communications between family members and also people involved in the business so that they can share out their feelings and the conflicts more openly so that the conflict can be solved in a way that will benefit the family and the business. The third challenge and issue that affects the family businesses in Malaysia is professionalism which is capability of keeping the family business up and running for a long term. This is a very hard challenge for all the family businesses out there in Malaysia because it has many factors to look at in order to keep the family business in one piece, because family businesses often faced with conflicts between one another sometimes because of the informal business structure, like there are no roles given formally which then allows everyone can step into each other territory in the business structure which is also known as invading other’s personal workspace. The other reason is because of the non-systematic work which is caused by bad operation control which can greatly impact the operation of the family business. However, if management is in good control and the organizational structure is complete and the objective and goals is the same and shared by everyone, the efficiency of the family business will sure improve a lot. Staff training can also improve the professionalism of the family business. The fourth challenge and issue that affects the family businesses in Malaysia is leadership which is basically the compass for the direction of the family business. It is very hard for family business to have good leadership because it involves leading, involving, and also motivating the people in the family business so that they share the same goal. So, if the leader of the family business is strong, then the chance of the business to succeed will surely be very high. The first thing is that the good leader must have the stamina and the passion to lead. Besides that, the leader must have a wide knowledge of the economy and also the industry itself so that he or she can direct a most beneficial way for the family business to approach and also giving a sense of common purpose. Lastly, the leader must have power to control the people in the family business and tell them what is the plan and what they need to do. The last challenge and issue that affects the family businesses in Malaysi a is fair compensation which also includes fair treatment to the people involved in the family business. The reason why this is a common issue in family business is because that the family members always tend to treat their own family member better and they also make bias decision most of the time. The most common problem is the payment and the salary of the people in family business. People who are the family member often get better pay which then the other people will feel cheated and mistreated at the same time. Then they will feel alienated by the family members of the family business, which will then greatly affect the earning capability of the business. Although there are quite some challenges and issues faced by family business in Malaysia, but if those family businesses can overcome the challenges and issues that are stated above, then their family business will surely be stable and run for a long time. Reference List: 1. http://www.ukm.my/ajag/vol2ch2.pdf 2. http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/862-family-business-challenges.html 3. http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/opinion/2012/02/02/asias-family-businesses-face-new-challenges/ 4. http://familybusiness.about.com/od/managementandoperations/a/commonthreats.htm 5. http://www.isb.edu/FamilyBusiness/File/challengesfacedbyindian.pdf

Hotel and Theme Park

Earlier this year, my mum and dad decided that we would be going to Benidorm for a week at the beginning of the summer holidays. My sister, Tara and I were so excited for the holiday that we immediately started counting down the days even though it was April and we wouldn't be going until the end of June/start of July. The months leading up to the holiday was a whirlwind of planning what we were taking and what we were going to do while we were there. Finally the day came and we were getting up at 3 am so we could get ready and catch the 6 o’clock plane from Edinburgh airport to Alicante airport.I remember bouncing in my seat in excitement while we were landing and letting out a squeal of happiness when we were safely on the ground and free to leave exit the plane. The first thing I felt when I departed the plane was the complete relaxation that the searing sun on my face brought to me. All too soon we were sitting in an overcrowded bus that would take us all to our different hotels. Our hotel was one of the first few stops as we were relatively close to the beach.On first look, the hotel (which I cannot for the life of me remember the name of) looked pretty standard. It wasn’t horrible looking however it didn't look like the Ritz. However, once I got inside I was taken aback by how classy the reception area was. I couldn't help but wonder if our room would be just as classy and lovely as the reception area. My answer to that particular question was no. The room was nice enough considering we wouldn't be spending much time in there but I couldn’t help but be disappointed by the size of our room.The thing I enjoyed the most about our room was surprisingly the bathroom, the lighting in there was absolute perfection for getting ready in the morning and evening and the shower was to die for! I could just feel all the tension in my shoulders wash away while in that shower. Our first day in Benidorm wasn’t all that eventful, Tara and I spe nt most of our day out by the pool swimming (Tara) and soaking up some vitamin D (me).Eventually we had to leave the pool at about 8 o’clock for dinner which  would be starting soon. The dinner the hotel served was extraordinary! It was as if they had taken a dish from every country in the world and put it into a buffet where we could just take whatever tickled our fancy! Day two of our holiday of found us spending the day sunbathing at the beach and swimming in the sea. The water was a beautiful clear blue colour and the sand was golden. The highlight of day two for me though were the peaches that my dad bought at a fruit stall while we were walking down to the beach.They were the largest and juiciest peaches I had ever had and kept my stomach content until dinner time. On the third and fourth days of our time in Benidorm were spent in the theme park â€Å"Terra Mitica† which translates to ‘mythical land’. The theme park was split into 5 different parts : Egypt, Greece, Iberia, the Islands and Rome. Each area had their own rides and shows. Personally my favourite part was of the theme park was the boat ride around the park as it was decorated magically. Day five found us exploring the old and new town and the shops that they offered.We found a boat ride that would take us to Benidorm Island and while there we walked all the way to the top of the hill and down again which in the blistering heat was a very difficult feat to accomplish. The next day was spent at a secluded beach that we found while exploring the town. This beach was a little bit different to the main beach though, as there were fish swimming in the water with us. Our last day in Benidorm was spent at a marine animal park, â€Å"Mundomar† where we watched a bird, sea lion and dolphin show, looked at turtles/tortoises, lemurs, monkeys and seals and had our pictures taken with dolphins.It was the perfect ending to the holiday that had undoubtedly been the best hol iday of my life. With our glowing tans, souvenirs and pictures that needed to be uploaded onto Facebook, we boarded the plane that would take us back to Edinburgh, I couldn't help but feel disheartened by the fact that we were leaving this incredible, stunning and warm place and going back home to dreary Scotland! But as they say, all good things must come to an end.