The Expansion Of Interest Groups - 747 Words

The emergence of interest groups in the European Union weakened the union’s overall power ; however, many politicians collaborate with them to gain an advantage. It is important to remember that interest groups are private firms, who can allocate their resources to provide studies for political actors. Interest groups provide â€Å"policymaking expertise, and implementation and monitoring capacity, the potential for a consolidated collective viewpoint, and the potential to enhance legitimacy â€Å"(Bache, Bulmer, George, Parker 2014, 310). With the acquired data, political actors can push forward stronger legislations built on concrete data. Interest groups pivotal role in the EU because they can use their resources to influence decision making in†¦show more content†¦Consequently, interest groups resemble a double –edged sword to the EU because although they can provide resources and information to public institutions, usually the largest groups will have t he most influence. Moreover, the amount of resources available â€Å"will secure ‘insider status’ with the policy makers or remain outside the policy process. (Bache ,Bulmer, George, Parker 2014, 315). The firms who control insider status will indirectly possess some control about the policies discussed in the EU. However, large firms also carry a substantial amount of influence because of their economic power. For example, politicians will find their hands tied if they decide to rule against one of the largest job suppliers in a country despite huge strikes against them. As the author states, â€Å"large firms find it easy to become privileged interlocutors of the political administrative system, thanks to their economic importance. â€Å" (Bache ,Bulmer, George, Parker 2014, 316). The wealth and resources possessed by large firms make interest group politics a process where the strongest stay on top and dominate conversations. Therefore, although in the last decade ’s interest groups have advocated for positive social, environmental, and economic changes, their role is contested against business interest. Clearly, interest groups’ in the EU is ultimately very circumstantial because they can advocate anything from same-sex marriages to fewer taxes on the rich. TheShow MoreRelatedThe Affordable Care Act Legislation Essay962 Words   |  4 Pagesincluded in the ACA with the help of Senator Baucus of Montana, who had a role in writing the health care law.2 The goal was to increase benefits for this new category of Medicare-eligible individuals. 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Finally, asymmetrical interdependence and patterns of subordination create systems of de facto coercion to increase international tradeRead MoreHealth Insurance For The Affordable Care Act : Case Analysis816 Words   |  4 Pagesrequire 37 states, which do not now permit Medicaid benefits to travel to the state, to ensure insurance continuity for former foster youth even when they move into one of these states from another state. This requirement would result in the Medicai d expansion for the former foster youth and this expanded coverage should enable them to not only to assure that they can access to health care without interruption but also create conditions that they seek opportunities to pursue higher education or job withoutRead MoreThe Canadian Government Has Been Faced With A Decision1482 Words   |  6 PagesThe Canadian Government has been faced with a decision that could destroy an already delicate relationship with the Indigenous Canadians. There have been several pipeline expansion proposals to increase the production and extraction of oil throughout Canada and the U.S. The primary factor delaying the Canadian Government from starting these projects is the Indigenous people. With promises by the newly elected federal Liberal government and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, it has outlinedRead MoreThe Articles Of Confederation As A Unified Country1030 Words   |  5 Pagesrights of the people are guaranteed by the separation o f powers—although the compound republic has a more complex division of power. Within any particular group of people, when the people in this group have the same ideas and ideals, they all come to a consensus and there is no one to dispute or go against those ideas or ideals. If this particular group is a government or a governmental body, they would be able to rule as they pleased without regard for the popular opinion and wishes. However, if we haveRead MoreKotek And Nathanson, Etc.) 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In the previous paper, there are 2 expansion strategies: (1) Alliance with Carlsberg who has additional production capacity or (2) Organic growth. The previousRead MorePublic Sphere As A Place Open899 Words   |  4 Pagespeople, where important topics can be discussed, opinions can be heard, and organization of action can take place. Over the last several years the social media phenomenon has led to expansion of the public sphere, with Twitter and Facebook becoming key components of the contemporary public sphere. These expansions of the public sphere still have several advantages but due to barriers, algorithms, and government intervention, the social media public sphere is shrinking. In this essay I will be focusingRead MoreThe Case of Park City University1242 Words   |  5 PagesUniversity cannot establish that it has a great hist ory of program expansion for the underrepresented sex. 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A Brief Note On Unemployment And Its Effect On The Economy

Unemployment plays a huge factor in the appearance of a good economy. All over the world governments try to decrease the amount of people that are unemployed in its country. Governments always want to try and provide fixes to things such as unemployment by instituting minimum wage laws, job security laws, and setting regulations on working conditions. While most of these things may seem necessary and even beneficial we have learned that laws and regulations such as these set on businesses typically hurt the ones they are trying to help the most. It is another case of focusing on the goals that these policies have and not focusing on how well they work and not how well they work out for the group of people that these policies are put in place to help. We have already learned about how things such as price controls can be bad for the economy and it is no different applying it to the agricultural industry or the labor force. One of the most talked about aspects in the United States to help unemployment and help people make more money is by raising the minimum wage. A minimum wage is a law set in place by the government that tells businesses that they cannot pay below a certain amount. The first minimum wage law in the United States was passed in 1938 by Franklin Roosevelt. There has recently been a lot of talk about raising the minimum wage to a living wage. The problem with minimum wage laws is that when a price is artificially raised it tends to cause more to be suppliedShow MoreRelatedA New Up And Coming Uk Government1674 Words   |  7 Pagesrise in unemployment and the lengthy period of recession. To do this the brief will explain the proposed economic objectives and policies, furthermore, it will address the problems of unemployment and the effects of both inflation and international trade on the economy and business organisations. 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Ah, Woe Is Me Free Essays

In the beginning of this short story we are introduced to Sarah, an aging black servant living in South Africa. She works hard for an upper-class white family and spends all of her money on education for her three children who are sent to a boarding school. They come home once a year at Christmas, and the first time the narrator meets the children, she is surprised at their well-mannered behaviour. We will write a custom essay sample on Ah, Woe Is Me or any similar topic only for you Order Now She finds, however, that Sarah is a bit harsh towards them, and she comments on this. Sarah tells her that it is better to learn the lesson now and grow to accept ones fate later. In the course of the following year, Sarah must give up her job because of her legs, and one day her daughter comes to the house. Slowly she tells her story to the narrator. How the younger brother is working now, and how she is taking care of Sarah. The narrator offers her some clothes and some money and invites her inside for a cup of tea. When she is about to leave, she starts crying and can only mutter that her mother is very ill. Unsure of what to do, the narrator hands her a handkerchief. The setting in this story is South Africa in the 1950s. Apartheid and segregation are words that describe the conditions under which the blacks (the native Africans) live perfectly. The blacks nearly have no rights and must accept being oppressed by the whites. Sarah is only one of many poor blacks who only just manages to earn a living by working as a servant for a rich white family (the narrator). Slavery does not exist anymore, but it can be difficult to distuingish the life of a slave from that of a native African in the 50s except from the fact that they do after all get paid for their work. Sarah is very concerned about her children getting a good education. She probably wants them to have a better life than she has had so far, and while that is a very noble thought, the facts speak against it. Her children do not at this time have a very good (if any) chance of getting a good solid education because it is very expensive, and their mother does not make that much money. Even if she did make enough money, her legs are bad, and at the end of the story, she has to give up her job (and thus take her children out of the boarding school) because she cannot afford to pay for the school. This is what could look like the final blow to her childrens future success in life. No education means no chances of getting a better life in South Africa (and just about everywhere else, too). But what if she did have enough money to give her children a proper education – would that guarantee the children a good future life I gravely doubt it. As I said before, the blacks live almost like slaves, and as such, they do not have the opportunity to climb the social ladder. All in all, Sarahs hopes and dreams for her children are all very noble, but, unfortunately, at that time and place, very unrealistic. The narrator does not treat Sarah any better than most other white people in South Africa at this time. While she allows Sarahs children to stay in her house during Christmas, I think the only reason she does it is because she tries to escape her own bad conscience. It is Christmas after all. Throughout the rest of the year, she does not even think about helping Sarahs children financially so they can stay in school. Even though she presumably has more money than Sarah will ever see, the thought of helping her servant out does not strike her at any point in the story. Her servant is her servant, and servants children are not someone she thinks about. This point is also very clear to see when one reads the description of the narrators thoughts about Sarahs children. She is surprised at how well they behave, how good their manners are; as if she was expecting a horde of wild animals instead of normal human beings. She is undoubtedly not the only one to think this way about the blacks, they were considered animals by many white people at that time. However, the narrator seems to excuse her treatment and behaviour towards Sarah and her family with ignorance (see lines 99-103). I find it hard to believe that this ignorance really existed, but it is possible that it did, because the whites and the blacks were so distinctly segregated by the apartheid system. Yet I find it hard to believe that the narrator was completely unaware of Sarahs almost inhuman standard of living. Surely, even though apartheid almost divided the whites and the blacks into two separate worlds, she must have known something about the conditions under which Sarah and her children lived, and that it was getting worse as the days went by (because of the mothers bad legs). When Janet, one of Sarahs two daughters, comes to visit the narrator in the end of the story, the narrator once again displays her ignorance about the blacks, but this time she openly admits it. Janet is, of course, in an unpleasant situation when she stands in the back yard of her mothers former employer. Everyone has some pride in themselves, and standing in the back yard, asking for alms is, of course, very degrading to a proud person, no matter who that person is. Janet has probably tried being in a similar situation before, but now that her mother is unable to provide for the disintegrating family (her father has lost his job and her sister has married and moved away), the life and death of her family depends solely on her and her brother who are the only ones working. Janet is of course very depressed and sad, but she cannot give up now. Her last hope is that the narrator will help her out, and, fortunately, she does. The handkerchief is actually the first thing the narrator has ever done to help Sarahs children. It is not until that point in the story Janet realizes just how bad things are with Sarah and her family. Of course, one could again be tempted to think that it was only her bad conscience that made her give Janet the clothes, but there is no way to be sure. I am, however, inclined to believe that the narrator has finally realized how immense the difference between the â€Å"black world† and the â€Å"white world† really is. However, the things she gives Janet (some money and the handkerchief) will not last long, and what will Janet do then Come back for more, of course. I am not saying that the narrator is doing something bad, but I do not think she realizes that Janet will probably come back again. It is like giving a stray cat some food; it will always come back for more. The question is if the narrator would give Janet more money if she came back, and if it would be any help at all. The first question is easy: Yes, she would give her more money if she came back – her conscience forbids her to do otherwise. The second question is a bit more difficult to answer. Of course the money is an instant help to Janet and her family, but only a very insufficient one. The few dollars (or whatever currency they use in South Africa) she gives Janet will only provide the family with a meal or two, and after that they will be back to where they started, and would have to beg for more money. Now, I am not saying charity does not help, but I do not think it helps as much as many people would like to think it does. In many cases, it only puts off the sufferings. The apartheid system has officially been abolished in South Africa today, but I think old habits die hard, so to speak. I am sure there are still blacks like Sarah and her family who have to subordinate to the richer white population even though – officially – apartheid does not exist there anymore. Societies do not change overnight, especially not when one group has to give up its right and privileges and share them with others (whom they dislike). Sarahs story is undoubtedly not the worst example one could find, but no one knows what happened after the scene in the narrators back yard. How to cite Ah, Woe Is Me, Essay examples

Nanotechnology Immortality Or Total Annihilation Essay Example For Students

Nanotechnology: Immortality Or Total Annihilation? Essay Technology has evolved from ideals once seen as unbelievable to common everyday instruments. Computers that used to occupy an entire room are now the size of notebooks. The human race has always pushed for technological advances working at the most efficient level, perhaps, the molecular level. The developments and progress in artificial intelligence and molecular technology have spawned a new form of technology; Nanotechnology. Nanotechnology could give the human race eternal life, or it could cause total annihilation. The idea of nanotech was conceived by a man named K. Eric Drexler (Stix 94), which he defines as Technology based on the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules to build structures to complex atomic specifications (Drexler, Engines 288). The technology which Drexler speaks of will be undoubtedly small, in fact, nano- structures will only measure 100 nanometers, or a billionth of a meter (Stix 94). Being as small as they are, nanostructures require fine particles that can only be seen with the STM, or Scanning Tunneling Microscope (Dowie 4). Moreover the STM allows the scientists to not only see things at the molecular level, but it can pick up and move atoms as well (Port 128). Unfortunately the one device that is giving nanoscientists something to work with is also one of the many obstacles restricting the development of nanotech. The STM has been regarded as too big to ever produce nanotech structures (Port 128). Other scientists have stated that the manipulation of atoms, which nanotech relies on, ignores atomic reality. Atoms simply dont fit together in ways which nanotech intends to use them (Garfinkel 105). The problems plaguing the progress of nanotech has raised many questions among the scientific community concerning its validity. The moving of atoms, the gathering of information, the restrictions of the STM, all restrict nanotech progress. And until these questions a re answered, nanotech is regarded as silly (Stix 98). But the nanotech optimists are still out there. They contend that the progress made by a team at IBM who was able to write letters and draw pictures atom by atom actually began the birth of nanotech (Darling 49). These same people answer the scientific questions by replying that a breakthrough is not needed, rather the science gained must be applied (DuCharme 33). In fact, Drexler argues that the machines exist, trends are simply working on building better ones (Unbounding 24). Drexler continues by stating that the machines he spoke about in Engines of Creation published in 1986 should be developed early in the 21st century (Unbounding 116). However many scientists still argue that because nanotech has produced absolutely nothing physical, it should be regarded as science fiction (Garfinkel 111). Secondly, nano-doubters rely on scientific fact to condemn nanotech. For example it is argued that we are very far away from ever seeing nanotech due to the fact that when atoms get warm they have a tendency to bounce around. As a result the bouncing atoms collide with other materials and mess up the entire structure (Davidson A1). Taken in hand with the movement of electron charges, many regard nanotech as impossible (Garfinkel 106). But this is not the entirety of the obstacles confining nanotech development. One major set-back is the fact that the nanostructures are too small to reflect light in a visible way, making them practically invisible (Garfinkel 104). Nevertheless, Nanotech engineers remain hopeful and argue that; With adequate funding, researchers will soon be able to custom build simple molecules that can store and process information and manipulate or fabricate other molecules, including more of themselves. This may occur before the turn of the century.(Roland 30) There are other developments also, that are pushing nanotech in the right direction for as Lipkin pointed out recent developments have lead to possibilities of computers thinking in 3-D (5). Which is a big step towards the processing of information that nanotech requires. Although there are still unanswered questions from some of the scientific community, researchers believe that they are moving forward and will one day be able to produce nanomachines. One such machine is regarded as a replicator. A replicator, as its name implies, will replicate; much like the way in which genes are able to replicate themselves (Drexler, Engines 23). It is also believed that once a replicator has made a copy of itself, it will also be able to arrange atoms to build entirely new materials and structures (Dowie 5). Ethnographic Paper EssayOne scenario which illustrates the danger of nanotech is referred to as the gray goo problem. Gray Goo is referred to as when billions of nanites band together and eat everything they come into contact with (Davidson A1). However, Davidson only gets the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the deadliness of gray goo. Roland better illustrates this hazards threat; Nanotechnology could spawn a new form of life that would overwhelm all other life on earth, replacing it with a swarm of nanomachines. This is sometimes called the gray goo scenario. It could take the form of a new disease organism, which might wipe out whole species, including Homo Sapiens(32). Simply put the nanites would replicate to quickly and destroy everything including the human race (Stix 95). Moreover, the rapid replication rate that nanotech is capable of could allow it to out-produce real organisms and turn the biosphere to dust (Drexler, Engines 172). However, death is only one of the da ngers of gray goo. If controlled by the wrong people, nanites could be used to alter or destroy those persons enemies (Roland 32). But gray goo is only of one of the many potential harms of nanotech. If so desired, nanotech could be used as a deadly weapon. Although microscopic robots dont sound like a very effective weapon, Drexler states that they are more potent than Nuclear weapons, and much easier to obtain (Engines 174). But aside from being used as a weapon, nanites would be able to produce weapons at a quick and inexpensive rate. In fact, with the ability to separate isotopes and atoms one would be able to extract fissionable Uranium 235 or Plutonium 239. With these elements, a person has the key ingredients for a nuclear bomb (Roland 34). As a result of the lethality of nano-weapons the first to develop nanotech could use it to destroy his rivals. New methods for domination will exist that is greater than Nukes and more dangerous (Roland 33). This along with simple errors, such as receiving the wrong instructions points toward nanotech doing more harm than good (Darling 56). Moreover, the threats from nanotech could be a potential cause of extinction (Drexler, Engines 174). Drexler continues by saying that unless precautions are taken nano could lead to complete annihilation (Engines 23). However, if nanotech does not lead to extinction, it could be used to increase the power of states and individuals. Bacon believes that only the very most elite individuals will receive benefits from nanotech. Beyond that however, it is perceived that advanced tech extends the possibilities of torture used by a state (Drexler, Engines 176). However, states will become more powerful in other ways. With the increase means of production, nanotech could remove the need for any if not all people (Drexler, Engines 176). This opens new doors for totalitarian states. They would no longer require keeping anyone alive, individuals would not be enslaved, rather they would be killed (Drexler, Engines 176). It is perceived that all the benefits would remove all interdependence, and destroy the quality of life itself (Roland 34). In the end, nanotech could give a lifestyle never before imagined. On the other hand, it could destroy entire species. The effects and potentials of nanotech are best sum med up by its inventor, Drexler, Nanotechnology and artificial intelligence could bring the ultimate tools of destruction, but they are not inherently destructive. With care, we can use them to build the ultimate tools of peace (Engines 190). The question of how beneficial nanotech will prove to be, can only be answered by time. Time will tell whether developments and progress in artificial intelligence and molecular technology will eventually produce true nanotechnology. And, if produced, whether this branch of science will give us immortality or total annihilation.

Poverty and Pollution Essay Example

Poverty and Pollution Paper If so should developing countries try to find a way to economic prosperity with strict environmental standards? On the other hand, what kind of moral obligations does business have when it comes to the environment? Let us consider these ethical dilemmas in greater details. DO poor countries really pay the price for the progress? We can consider historical progress made by the countries in the West. None of them magically advanced to the relative prosperity without sacrifices. Many of the same dirty industries originated in the industrialized countries. Many of them have been there for the most part of the twenties century. Since western population had to deal with them for some time, these industries have evolved and many of them have now being perfected to the best of human ability. Many factories reduced their air emissions, reduced and recycled their waste and many of them are automated by employing robots. In the current economical environment, the burden of the manufacturing belongs to the less developed countries. It is in the nature of the business to seek lowest production costs. I believe that there is direct correlation twine economic progress of the particular country and an increase in the environmental awareness of the population. We will write a custom essay sample on Poverty and Pollution specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Poverty and Pollution specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Poverty and Pollution specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer First people need to satisfy their basic human needs before they can pay attention to the environmental problems. Let us for a moment consider the possibility of all manufacturing remaining in the industrialized nations. There are at least two results that would follow. First, since environmental standards generally much more strict than in the developing nations, we would see the increase in the pollution control. Subsequently, environment on Earth in general would infinite, since less pollution would be omitted in the air, released in the water or stored in the landfills. Humans would enjoy cleaner air and better ecological variety. Second result would be increased costs. It would take an increasing amount of resources to comply with the regulations. That would lead to increased prices for goods. The population in the industrialized nations still would be able to afford those goods, but maybe to lesser degree. What would happen to the population of the underdeveloped nations? They would be unable to purchase them at all, since not only the prices would increase, but the better jobs would be absent also. Such scenario would only widen the gap between industrialized and less developed countries. Thirdly, increased costs would decrease the amount of money spend on innovation. The progress would slow down. All of us would lose. From the utilitarian point of view such scenario would result deprivation of pleasure and in greater amount of pain on the world. Thus based on cost-benefit analysis it would be unethical to operate in such a way. Another important consideration to make is the fact that in most cases foreign businesses are allowed to operate by local governments. Businesses do not create rules and regulations, they just obey them. In my opinion, it is in the businesss best interest to operate in the most environmentally friendly way. The world has become very transparent place. It is virtually impossible to hide questionable practices in regards to the environment. At the same time we cannot expect a business to take on additional burden to employ the most technologically advanced protection systems for the environment. Such steps usually are very expensive and can create competitive disadvantage for the company. In recent years the rate of globalization increased exponentially. This process is not going to slow down and it is here to stay. On one hand, people in the most remote and isolate places will be included in this process sooner or later. Every nation will have to deal with the pollution. To preserve the environment a country would need the resources both financial and technological. These resources do not appear by themselves nor do they get hand out by other nations. Any country would have to accumulate wealth and knowledge to deal with such issues. The only proven way to do that is to go through the phase of building infrastructure: road, industrial plants, etc. This recess itself cannot be done without polluting the environment to some extent. On the other hand, business would always try to exploit every opportunity to make the profit. This is in the nature of the capitalist system. Thus I would disagree that only poor part of the population is paying the price for the pollution since the environment gets ruined for everybody. Polluted environment does not benefit anybody as it increases healthcare costs. Businesses have to deal with increase healthcare costs and reduced productivity. Let us consider some reasons why people choose to work in such places as dearth valley. Nowadays we hear a lot of demands to protect foreign workers from poor working conditions. Some activists go even further as to boycott the products by companies operating sweatshops and factories. I would disagree with such demands. First of all, one of the most obvious facts is that people choose to work in sweatshops because they get better pay and working conditions than at their next best alternative which is agriculture. Secondly, all such boycotts force companies to cut down their costs and many workers become unfortunate victims. Imposed sanctions often pressure international companies to fire workers, close stories and relocate. The worst part is that we never care to know what happens to fired employees, but I suspect that due to scarcity of jobs many Of them end up on the streets and starve. Such jobs might be local people best alternatives. If we take away such option we reduce their choice. That in return lessens their freedom, since workers have fever options to choose from. From the Kantian point of view protesting the company goods and thus resulting displacement of workers would be unethical. I believe that we should continue to buy goods that are produced in foreign factories and sweatshops. Such economic support will help to raise standards of living in third world countries. Environmental awareness also does not appear overnight. Any country must develop their infrastructure to embrace sustainable approach to the environment. I think that moderate pollution is a normal step in economic development of any nation. While the pollution of the developing countries seems to be inevitable, I strongly disagree with Lawrence Summers, chief economist of the World Bank and subsequently U. S. Treasury secretary and president of Harvard University, who argues that:the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in he lowest-wage country is impeccable. Such assertion is too simple to a very complicated problem. I believe that businesses do have moral obligations to future generations when considering the impact of their operations. Simply dumping toxic Waste in places with cheapest labor is simply irresponsible. First of all, toxic waste is time bomb that could negatively impact future generations for centuries. Second, such behavior can bring chaos in our extremely interconnected world. Let us consider China for example. This country may very well have the lowest wage labor. If other countries decide to export their toxic wastes to this overpopulated nation the results could be disastrous. Demographic consequences could lead to prod active part of population becoming increasingly ill. That in return would lead to diminishing role of China in the world economy. Financial and humanitarian implications of such scenario would leave the human population in disarray. Think that humanity made significant technological improvements to simply dump toxic waste. Both private and government entities should be more responsible when disposing of poisonous waste. I think that while some types f pollution such as air pollution cannot be avoided entirely, others, such as nuclear waste, should be contained and stored using the latest advances in science without consideration for the lowest costs. Businesses are responsible for producing and delivering various goods and services that human population requires. In order to do that private and government enterprises must interact with the nature. Such interactions may have both positive and negative effects. Nevertheless negative outcomes occur more often. Thus businesses should limit their interactions with ecosystems as much as possible. The attitude of indifference is no longer acceptable. Using the environment as the means to get the products manufactured is unethical. The environment should receive some consideration when making business decisions. One Of the reasons that business moves overseas is weak government or lack of proper oversight. Such reasoning is dangerous since it can lead to dilution of moral standards. While some pollution is unavoidable, nevertheless businesses are responsible to monitor their own activities. Simply leaving the waste for somebody else to clean up, passing on the social costs to the government is a poor judgment. The example in the article gives an idea what unsustainable economic growth could look like. In this situation businesses can benefit in the short run, but the environmental problems eventually would catch up with them. Some might argue the businesses are responsible for cleaning the results of the operations, while other point out to the consumers are the ones who should bear the costs of environmental impact since they are the ones who ultimately forces the business to produce goods and services they demand. I think that this dilemma should be examined in case by case situation. However one thing is retain is that preventing a problem can be more cost efficient then resolving it once it occurs. Thus business has a moral obligation to make a good faith effort to protect the environment and reduce its impact on it. The industrialization had a positive effect on the development of the Western civilization during the end of the nineteen and all of the twentieth century. It Was done with some profound effects on the global ecosystems. Natural resources were used at will and the contamination of the environment was not given much consideration. Nowadays, as we realized that natural sources have limits and effects of the polluted environment beginning to threaten our own way life, we should be more sensitive, when making business decisions. As human populations increases exponentially, the world has become more interconnected. The pollution and greenhouse emissions in one area can have negative effect on quality of life for people thousands of miles away. One may wonder if there is a way to dispose of the manufacturing wastes and greenhouse gases that considers everybodys interests. Probably, there is no such way. Somebody would have to pay the price as some areas of the globe would naturally be more affected than there. Businesses should not consider third world countries as the means to their ends. They should focus on sustainable development of the local economy. Lifting people out poverty, providing for basic needs and offer them a source of reliable income should be the main goals of any company. But businesses should not forget their other moral obligations and being sensitive to the local ecosystems is one of them. Balancing these goals would not be easy. The positive example of approaches that can promote sustainability and raise quality of life could be fair trade practices. By paying Geiger prices for goods producers are obligated to invest some portion of the income to promote sustainable agricultural techniques. Fair trade practices promote the advances in social and environmental standards. However, this approach had limited success as it puts companies that use it in disadvantage to their competition that does not employ it. We, as educated consumers, should support such efforts, despite higher prices. Such unconventional approach benefits all of us in a long run. Companies should not consider their social and moral obligations as threats to their profits. I think they should rather complement each other. But what kind of social responsibility programs can businesses embrace? Some of the most important aspects are sustainability and efforts to reduce the effects on the climate change. In the competitive environment, companies are forced to innovate. Raising energy costs, political instability in developing countries, terrorism and more demanding government regulations are some of the reasons to focus on the sustainability. Long-term cost saving and efficiencies can be another benefits of proper implemented social responsibility programs. Recently companies became increasingly interested in creating a positive image in minds of attention consumers. A good reputation takes a while to build, but as several latest financial scandals proved it can be easily destroyed. Being innovative in reducing the environmental impact is the best way to get positive press. Responsible businesses can be rewarded with greater brand equity and increased market share. Green energy sources are the energy of the future. Rising energy prices and global demand leave no choice but to encourage innovation and sustainability. In the nearest future we can expect businesses to put more emphases on the social responsibility programs. Both businesses ND consumers are increasingly interested in reducing the environmental impact and improving overall social well-being of the people. Agrees with the assertion that only poor third world countries pay the price for the pollution. It is unavoidable to some degree and we all share the negative impacts of uncontrolled pollution of the environment. Nevertheless the business community has social and moral responsibilities to invest resource in order to curb their emissions and reduce waste as much as it is economically possible. People s moral rights to a livable environment as well s the protection of ecological systems are some of ethical concerns that should be considered when making business decisions. However lifting people out of poverty, providing for their basic needs, increasing their quality of life and thus providing them with ability to make more choices is the priority. The government in the developing countries should play the stronger role in the correction of the market activities, regulation of emissions and protection of local ecosystems. We, as educated consumers, should actively participate in the environmental protection by supporting businesses that do their part.

Interview of a Marriage and Family Therapist

Interview of a Marriage and Family Therapist Abstract Ethical dilemmas are challenging situations that compel individuals to make decisions concerning certain aspects of life. In families, ethical dilemmas arise when individuals disagree on what they believe is right or wrong. Different views, varying lifestyles, and time management are among the ethical dilemmas common in several families.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Interview of a Marriage and Family Therapist specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Notably, the judgment given by therapists should be free from personal values, cultural affiliations, or ethnic favors. The common ethical dilemma faced by family therapists, is the dilemma of varying opinions since it has profound impacts in family operations. Resolution of the dilemma requires intensive scrutiny on the actions and their repercussions so that a wise decision materializes. Introduction Ethical dilemmas are challenges that individuals encounter in an attempt to make decisions concerning certain situations. The need to make a choice drives individuals into a state of mental conflict where they eventually select one of the issues and forego the others. In families, some of the common ethical dilemmas concern what various individuals in the family believe is correct. To ascertain the various ethical dilemmas that families face, the study interviewed a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT). Therefore, the essay explains the types of ethical dilemmas in families and their resolution. Ethical Dilemmas and Personal Values, Culture, and Ethnicity As a family therapist, some of the common ethical dilemmas encountered during the practice comprise time management, different views and opinions, diverse lifestyles, and varying religious orientations. These dilemmas are challenging as they entail what each member of the family thinks is right or wrong. While some individuals in the family believe that a given time can be useful for a p articular activity, other members think differently. The difference leads to a conflict among those, who think one activity is good and better over the other. Another dilemma concerns opinions, lifestyles, and religious orientations.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Mead (2012) elucidates that a family entails union of people from different backgrounds, and thus, the diversity of opinions and lifestyles is inevitable. The dilemma arises when these opinions, lifestyles, and religious orientations offend other members in the family hence, compelling the subject individuals to relax some of their opinions, religious orientations, and adjust their lifestyles Since I am a licensed therapist with the expertise required in the field of therapy, my values, culture, and ethnicity do not affect my practice. Conversely, in scenarios where my personal views are ethical, I share the valu es with clients and give them the chance to make their own decisions. Although my values and cultural inclinations can at times attempt to influence my judgment, I employ the code of conduct and use it to make wise and independent decisions. According to Dallos (2010), the code of conduct ensures that all the clients receive fair and correct therapy irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds, religious orientations, and places of origin. Essentially, the therapy should be free from coercion and ought to give the clients the liberty to make their decisions from a range of solutions deemed as right and ethical. Common Ethical Dilemma, a Challenging Ethical Dilemma, and Its Resolution The most common ethical dilemma or concern that I experience in my practice regards difference in opinions and views. Principally, union among individuals, who have divergent opinions and views lead to a set of challenges concerning what they think is ethical.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Interview of a Marriage and Family Therapist specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In several instances, people disagree because of the different views that they have and expect from others in the family. The differences always transpire from the backgrounds of respective individuals, which influence their activities (Goldenberg Goldenberg, 2008). As a result, they expect that the other family members should engage in activities that are in line with their views and opinions. The dilemma is evident since the views imposed by these individuals conflict with what the others in the family believe are ethical. Therefore, the implication of the dilemma is a mental conflict that compels one to make a choice out of several views, which are right and forego others that are equally ethical. In one occasion, I faced a challenging ethical dilemma concerning a family disagreement that threatened to initiate divorce between the wife and the husban d. According to the husband, the wife undertook her activities in a different manner conflicting with what he expected. As a result, the husband felt that no one valued his opinions and views concerning family operations. Consequently, the wife complained that the husband imposed his opinions into the family without understanding that other family members held different views. The wife complained that the husband dictated the family using his views and in the process downplayed correct opinions held by the wife. Brock and Barnard (2009) explain that to resolve ethical dilemmas in families, therapists must focus on the actions and their possible consequences. As such, I explained the significance of compromise, dialogue, and assertiveness in line with what they held concerning implementation of various operations in the family. With the explanation and adoption of the values, the ethical dilemma attained a productive solution.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The Process of Resolving the Ethical Dilemma and the Acquired Training The process of resolving the dilemma followed a procedure that stressed on the actions and their consequences. The procedure looked into the various repercussions that would arise from the actions that the two individuals wanted to undertake. In the assertion of the wife, the family was not productive, and thus, she wanted to file a divorce. However, a scrutiny on the benefits of staying together and understanding one another in the family outweighed the consequences that would transpire from the divorce. Some of the major consequences of a divorce include stress that the children experience after the divorce (Metcalf, 2011). Therefore, it was fundamental to adopt values such as compromise, dialogue, and assertiveness to ensure that each member respected the views of others in the family instead of a divorce. The training that I received concerning ethical dilemmas is sufficient and very instrumental in dealing w ith various family issues. Moreover, the ability to solve cases like the one that concerned a divorce implies that the training acquired is adequate and productive. Dallos (2010) asserts that to improve the quality of the services that therapists offer to clients, they should undertake constant research on matters regarding families and ethical dilemmas. Therefore, my research focuses on secondary and primary sources and is useful in compounding the skills and expertise in family therapy. Since several families face different ethical dilemmas, a therapist needs to engage in constant research in order to gain the required skills useful in addressing the dilemmas. Involvement in Advocacy Programs and People to Consult for Advice I have been involved in various advocacy programs that address the unique requirements faced by several families. Some of the programs that I have actively participated in include one, which emphasized involvement of children in decision making particularly on matters that affect them directly. The program materialized after an observation that a number of children abuse drugs and substances when parents make decisions that concern their wellbeing without their involvement. Apparently, the need to involve an expert in family therapy compelled the community to involve me in the advocacy program aimed at addressing the unique need. Significantly, my expertise was instrumental in ensuring that the program became successful. In case I need assistance on aspects of ethical dilemmas or concerns, my course of action will entail seeking advice from experts, who have the relevant experience in the field of marriage and family therapy (MFT). In addition, I will involve entities such as close family members, religious leaders, and focus groups that have augmented understanding on the issue. Involvement of these entities will be in a creative and innovative manner so that I do not violate the rights of the subject clients. To increase my knowledge, I will refer to past records that entail dilemmas that are similar to the challenge. The reference will have its basis on sources that have applicable information and will focus on ascertaining the best solution, which was useful in solving the related dilemma. Reactions to the Therapist, Interviewee’s, Answers The therapist demonstrated sufficient understanding on the concept of ethical dilemma and family therapy. Imperatively, the responses were not surprising as they revolved around field of family therapy, ethical dilemmas, and the appropriate solutions. Given the chance, my perspective would be similar since the responses were germane and objective. Remarkably, it is paramount to abide by the code of conduct since failure to follow it leads to a situation where the therapists use their views and personal values to make unwise judgments. Conclusion Ethical dilemmas compel individuals to make decisions from a range of options that are correct. Therefore, the individuals en ter into a state of mental conflict as the choice involves ethical options. Families experience ethical dilemmas, which comprise difference in opinions, time management, and lifestyles. Principally, difference in opinions is the dominant ethical dilemma and challenges several families. Therefore, therapists must provide judgments that successfully solve ethical dilemmas faced by families. References Brock, G. W., Barnard, C. P. (2009). Procedures in marriage and family therapy. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon. Dallos, R. (2010). An Introduction to Family Therapy. London: McGraw-Hill International. Goldenberg, H., Goldenberg, I. (2008). Family therapy: An overview. Sydney: Thompson Brooks/Cole. Mead, E. (2012). Becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist: From Classroom to  Consulting Room. Chicester: Wiley. Metcalf, L. (2011). Marriage and family therapy: A practice-oriented approach. New York: Springer.

Information Technology Is a Competitive Tool in an Evolving Literature review

Information Technology Is a Competitive Tool in an Evolving Hospitality Industry - Literature review Example To demonstrate this reality some of the instances of on-site applications of IT in hospitality firms comprise the implementations of physical devices for instance hotel information kiosks, department store touch screen displays, and self departure counters at hospitality firm. As well, on-site applications are less data based than on-site applications. In this scenario, some of the instances of off-site applications can be online transaction web sites and automated telephone systems (Schrier et al., 2010; Dabholkar & Bagozzi, 2002). According to (Hotelmule, 2010), in the past few years, the use of IT in the hospitality industry has increased extremely. Though, this travel has not for all time been without problems, but it has turned out to be obvious that information technology is currently a vital competitive tool in the hospitality industry (Hotelmule, 2010). According to (Branca et al., 2002), improving service quality and enhancing efficiency are the critical functions of informa tion technology in the hospitality industry. ... Moreover, a lot of researches such as (DiPietro & Wang, 2010; Cho & Olsen, 1998; Nyheim et al., 2004) discuss the role of information technology in strategy building and gaining competitive edge. According to their viewpoints, the information technology has turned into a vital strategic tool for hospitality firms for the reason that it helps them improve their organizational efficiency and strategic competitiveness. Thus, there is an increasing importance of the function that is performed by the information technology in improving a hospitality firms’ competitive edge, and as a result playing a significant role in the success of the hospitality firm. In point of fact, the use of information technology in the hospitality industry has been increasing at a rate quicker than at any other time in the past (DiPietro & Wang, 2010; Cho & Olsen, 1998; Nyheim et al., 2004). One reason of this increase could be the adoption of modern technologies by the younger generations as they became well aware of the usage of IT, thus they want to carry that into their accommodation, lodging and dining experiences. In addition, the decisions regarding the acceptance and implementation of new technology or IT supported systems have become a great deal more critical and as a result the majority of hospitality firms have started to transform their corporate or organization environment in order to upgrade roles and responsibilities for instance building a IT department, hiring technology experts, or a chief information/technology executive to watch over IT related decisions. In the hospitality industry, the implementation of information is vital for a wide variety of purposes. In this scenario, the basic purpose is to more efficiently use technology to