The Drug-Like Characteristics of Chocolate - 665 Words

Taren and Bruinsma’s article focuses on the drug-like characteristics of chocolate. It discusses how chocolate can attribute to addictive behaviors and why this occurs. First, the idea of chocolate being addictive is addressed. The â€Å"urgent inner demand overrides all others, undermines reason, resolve, and will†¦It does not stop until satisfied. And then, it starts again (Bruinsma Taren, 1999).† This behavior is associated with heavier drugs such as cocaine, alcohol, and heroin but were observed in people who craved chocolate. From observations, researchers gathered that when a person had a craving for chocolate it gave them negative moods and substitutions would not completely satisfy the craving. They used white-chocolate, magnesium supplements, and other fatty sweet foods. White chocolate is used as a substitute because it mimics texture and sweetness while magnesium supplements are used because chocolate is high in magnesium. Other fatty foods were used be cause fat and sugar are normally associated with human pleasure for food consumption and are key ingredients to chocolate. Though some of the substitutes showed signs of satisfaction, they never completely satisfied the craver. One of the reasons for this phenomena is the chemical nature of chocolate. Chocolate contains a relatively high amount of serotonin which is responsible for the regulation of food-intake and mood. A person who craves chocolate is possibly trying to balance their body’s low level of serotonin theShow MoreRelatedEssay on The Food of the Gods1133 Words   |  5 PagesThe Food of the Gods For over 2000 years, chocolate in its many forms has been enjoyed and its effects have been exalted. It was believed that the Mexican god Quetzalcoatl left the cocoa tree for the people. The Aztec emperor Montezuma is reported to have consumed 50 goblets of chocolate a day. It is called the food of the gods, literally, as a translation of Theobroma Cacao, the cacao bean. (1). Such a title must imply that chocolate has some naturally occurring superior quality. Why elseRead MoreChocolate, The Food Of The Gods1581 Words   |  7 Pages Chocolate, It’s been described as one of life’s â€Å"sinful little pleasures.† It s been proven that there are foods that people are passionate about, a passion that’s more than just love for food. For the true chocoholics like myself, just thinking about chocolate can evoke a pleasurable response. But could something that tastes so delicious actually be good and healthy for you? Over the years we have all heard many negative claims about chocolate, especially if you eat a lot like I do. ButRead MoreForrest Gump Analysis Essay1125 Words   |  5 PagesWord Count: 1,124 Random Chocolates When you open a box of assorted chocolates, what do you see? Some people look, and they know that there are some chocolates mixed in that are absolutely horrid, and they do their best to escape them. Others see the candies and know that one of them will be their demise, but they eat them all anyways. However, a few people gaze into the box and see an opportunity for surprise with each morsel. In the movie Forrest Gump, the concept of destiny is viewed byRead MoreEssay about The Effects of Caffeine870 Words   |  4 Pagesthousand years that have passed, there is still controversy surrounding the biological effects of coffee and its primary active ingredient, caffeine. Caffeine is the most widely used stimulant drug in the world, usually ingested in the form of coffee, tea, soft-drinks, and chocolate. (Honig) Caffeine is derived from a bean or from tea leaves and can be found in the seeds or fruits of more then 60 species worldwide.(American Academy) Caffeine has numerous effects and it isRead MoreHave You Ever Seen A Cruelty Free Symbol In The Shape Of1430 Words   |  6 Pagesthrough force feeding, food deprivation, and inflictions of wounds. That bunny probably is not okay right now. Cosmetic companies all over the world endanger the lives of animals to test toxicity and irritation of products. In order to test these characteristics, the products are placed on the skin and eyes of animals. If a rash occurs, or if the animal is in any pain because of the product, it is unsafe for human use. After the animal is tested on, it is then killed for further exploration of the bodyRead MoreDrug Profile Paper1105 Words   |  5 PagesDrug Profile Paper University of Phoenix PSY/425 March 22th, 2012 Drug Profile Paper This paper will illustrate several aspects of how drugs affect our lives. Addiction philosophies including the psychology and physiology will be explained in an attempt to describe how drugs affect our bodies both physically and mentally. Secondly, different drug categories types will be covered including: stimulants, depressants, narcotics, hallucinogens, and cannabis. Each of these categories has differentRead MoreSpeech on Caffeine Essay889 Words   |  4 PagesTitle: Caffeine Specific purpose: To inform my audience what exactly caffeine is, where it comes from, the benefits of caffeine and the negative effects of caffeine. Introduction A. Attention material: Do you ever feel like you will never make it through the day without caffeine? Is your first thought in the morning to get yourself a cup of coffee before you can even get your day started? B. Tie to the audience: I am sure that most of you do consume at least one form ofRead MoreThe Power Of Love By Harry Potter1724 Words   |  7 Pagesconcept for many. It’s clear that the wizarding world’s love potions are the equivalent to date-rape drugs, where an individual is victimized and forced to perform unwanted actions unknowingly. In this paper, I am going to explore the concept of love potions and the dangerous implications of love potions through scenes in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince when Ron accidentally ate laced Chocolate Cauldrons and the memory of Merope Gaunt and Tom Riddle. The idea of love potions is a major conceptRead MoreNotes On The Formation Of Nerves Essay1145 Words   |  5 Pagesarticle is of a paper written by Sampson; in his article, â€Å"Perforating hemorrhagic (chocolate) cysts of the ovary†, he states there is typically nothing characteristic about the pain many women experience with endometriosis, â€Å"nor is there necessarily any relationship between the extent of the adhesions and the severity of pain†. The paper then goes on to discuss Dr. Pamela Stratton’s lecture on the clinical characteristics of chronic pelvic pain. In her speech, Dr. Stratton reviews current methods ofRead MoreGenetically Modified Food Production Definition Essay1190 Words   |  5 Pagescanola oil, snack on biscuits and chocolates, drink soy milk or eat tofu, you re probably tucking into â€Å"Franken food†. Genetically modified food are imported from other country’s to Australia, for example imported soya, soya is a protein bean from an Asian plant its used as an replacement for animal protein in certain foods for example it’s in chocolate, potato chips, margarine, mayonnaise and all sorts of salad dressings. Imported corn can be found in foods like bread, your breakfast cereals,

Jung, Gardner, and Freud Comparison Essay - 1150 Words

Jung, Gardner, and Freud Comparison In today’s society, education is more liberal, allowing people to think for themselves and providing them with a broader education. This differs from many years ago, when education was more conservative. Education was very basic, consisting of only academic classes and no electives. People with a more conservative education would never go against what they were taught. However, liberally educated people of today can go against what they are taught, research it themselves, and make new conclusions about their studies. A liberal education enables people to deal with the forces that control their life. It frees them from the restraints in everyday life. Having such a broad education allows people to†¦show more content†¦A liberal education allows people to study this; however, a more conservative education would not because studying the mind is not essential in academics. Psychology studies the things that people cannot see, such as conscious and unconscious states. It a lso allows people to not have to accept what other people say. In the essay written by Jung, he stated, â€Å"If in such cases we pursue our observations systematically and without prejudice, we shall find material which, although similar in form to the previous personal contents, yet seems to contain allusions that go far beyond the personal sphere†(345). Carl Jung did not agree with Freud’s theory, so he did his own research, and found Freud’s research to be inconclusive. Because of his liberal education and study in psychology, Jung was able to control the forces in his life and did not agree with what was thought by Freud. Plato’s, â€Å"The Allegory of the Cave† shows that the prisoners of his story were unable to see the truth because of their lack of a liberal education. In fact, at first they could not see anything nor could they move their heads. With only the aid of a small fire were they able to see the shadows of pictures on the wall. However, in the end, one prisoner rose above the shadows and saw the truth when he was let out of the cave, but when he went back to the cave, he was terrorized. Plato wrote, â€Å"He will require to grow accustomed to the sight of the upperShow MoreRelatedJung, Gardner, and Freud Comparison Essay1146 Words   |  5 PagesTheory of Multiple Intelligences, written by Howard Gardner, The Personal and Collective Unconscious, written by Carl Jung, The Allegory of the Cave, written by Plato, and From the Interpretation of Dreams, written by Sigmund Freud. In Howard Gardners Theory of Multiple Intelligences he states that there are seven different kinds of intelligence. He alludes that everyone has the potential to be intelligent in an unconventional way. Gardner writes, The question of the optimal definitionRead MoreAstrology and Alchemy - the Occult Roots of the Mbti4990 Words   |  20 Pagespatterns of conduct in order to contribute to a better understanding of its influence in the organisational world. 61 EBF issue 17, spring 2004 The renaissance of spiritual and occult understanding In justifying his own ‘astrological experiment’, Jung observes: â€Å"In no previous age, however ‘superstitious,’ was astrology so widespread and so highly esteemed as it is today†. Although penned in the early 1950s, Jung’s remark still holds true today. Interest in astrology, along with other forms of alternativeRead MoreUnethical Behaviour12228 Words   |  49 Pageschildhood needs. In an interview, Kets de Vries partially attributed intrapersonal problems in leaders to unresolved issues in childhood, which produce unconscious blind spots when leaders are under pressure (Coutu, 2004, p. 67). Citing the work of Freud regarding the unconscious aspects of personality, Kets de Vries‟ clinical approach to leadership behavior centers in the nature-nurture pendulum where behavior derives from core motivations comprised of thoughts, feelings, and desires conditioned from

Operation AI and Machine Learning Free Essays

Principle of operation AI and Machine learning and how it could affect the future Investigation I am very interested in Computer science and programming. That is why my goal for this project is to research about AI and Machine learning(neural networks) and find out how it can affect in the future and how is it affecting now. I have chosen this project because in the future i want to become a programmist and study this topic. We will write a custom essay sample on Operation AI and Machine Learning or any similar topic only for you Order Now My computer science and ICT classes provide me knowledge to do this project. There i learn to code and program, which can help me to understand the functions of AI.AI (Artificial Intelligence) is intelligence displayed by machines. It was created to solve problems that people cannot solve. It is not discovered fully yet, but it is one of the priorities of technology world nowadays. Today, AI(Machine learning nowadays) is used in a variety of spheres: Virtual Personal Assistants, Predictions while Commuting, Email Spam and Malware Filtering, Online Customer Support . The most famous and helpful specific examples are to see patterns in any spheres. Logical Plan: StepDescriptionQuality Control Date Start – End1Research about AI. Effectively analyse and evaluate a wide range of source/data in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported arguments1 Dec, 2017 – 10 Jan, 20182Research how it change our life now. Effectively analyse and evaluate a wide range of source/data in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported arguments1 Dec, 2017 – 10 Jan, 20183Research how other people(powerful) responded about AI. Effectively analyse and evaluate a wide range of source/data in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported arguments1 Dec, 2017 – 10 Jan, 20184What AI can cause in the future. Effectively analyse and evaluate a wide range of source/data in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported arguments1 Dec, 2017 – 15 Jan, 20185During 1-4 steps write in the final report. Effectively analyse and evaluate a wide range of source/data in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported arguments1 Dec, 2017 – 15 Jan, 20186Analyse all 1-5 steps and information in it and write conclusion. Thoroughly interpret a range of different perspectives and their implications. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported argumentsJan 15, 2018 – Jan 25, 20187Correct all report and check grammar and information mistakes. Effectively analyse and evaluate a wide range of source/data in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations. Thoroughly interpret a range of different perspectives and their implications. Synthesizes information to make valid, well-supported arguments   Jan 25, 2018– Jan 30, 2018 Essay AI or artificial intelligence is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. Nowadays AI is something that people wants to create, some of them spend their personal money to reach this goal. The best example of this is Elon Musk, he is an awesome engineer, he has a lot of companies that create something new and essential, always make a really huge step in science. Today AI is a goal that all world wants to reach, but what they are creating and developing now is Machine Learning Systems. Now machine learning helps us a lot. All big corporations are trying to put it into more parts of the company. In the future, if someone creates AI, it will take all jobs from the people, because AI is a person, but not in the human body. But before AI, Machine learning will develop a lot, so it will take some jobs, but not all, actually jobs that should do something with the same operations or the hard process that needs a lot of energy.Amazon one of the biggest company that is trying to create AI. Amazon Machine Learning platform provides companies with the ability to predict and find patterns using data. Additionally, Amazon Echo brings artificial intelligence into the home through the intelligent voice server, Alexa. Also, our favorite company Apple is trying to create AI. Apple has acquired four artificial intelligence startups within the past two years, demonstrating its big step into the artificial intelligence sphere. Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, has transformed over the years from being a fairly simple voice assistant to being a fully-fledged digital assistant. But still it’s not AI, it’s just Machine Learning system. About Elon Musk, he has 2 companies that have relationship with AI, first is OpenAI, this company is trying to create Artificial Intelligence. And the company that works with it is Neuralink, this company is creating software to merge people with it. Also creating a device for this.Nowadays all big corporations are trying to put as much Machine Learning as they can, they do it because it can help people a lot. This one takes place in everyday people’s life, it’s personal assistant, like Siri, Cortana, Alice, so they all are doing the same and the big advantage of using Machine Learning is that people don’t need to write each step that product should make because it learns by itself. If we take Siri as an example, we will see that in the first year Siri wasn’t really confident with answers, with its voice, but it took some time for Siri to study from the people’s respond and we can see how Siri is answering our questions, it almost every time perfect, but it still learning, actually it could make intonation it a quiet good manner, but as I told it still learning. Also, Google is giving Machine Learning to anyone who need it, it’s picture search, it find the major parts of the picture and using it, trying to find the same one, but with the text and information about it. As well it analyzes what you’re searching, so next time it could give you the best information that you need. So again we can see that Machine Learning system is learning by itself from us. And one of the most important for humans lives is Security. If you’ve flown on an airplane or attended a big public event lately, you almost certainly had to wait in long security screening lines. But machine learning is proving that it can be an asset to help eliminate false alarms and spot things human screeners might miss in security screenings at airports, stadiums, concerts, and other venues. That can speed up the process significantly and ensure safer events. Also, security can be electronic money security. Machine learning is getting better and better at spotting potential cases of fraud across many different fields. Paypal, for example, is using machine learning to fight money laundering. The company has tools that compare millions of transactions and can precisely distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent transactions between buyers and sellers. Also Data security for example company Kaspersky. Their learning model has no problem with the 2–10% variations and can predict which files are malware with great accuracy. In other situations, machine learning algorithms can look for patterns in how data in the cloud is accessed, and report anomalies that could predict security breaches. There are 2 opinions about future of AI, one of them is that it’s very dangerous and another one will help people. Here is one of them: Autonomous weapons are artificial intelligence systems that are programmed to kill. In the hands of the wrong person, these weapons could easily cause mass casualties. Moreover, an AI arms race could inadvertently lead to an AI war that also results in mass casualties. To avoid being thwarted by the enemy, these weapons would be designed to be extremely difficult to simply â€Å"turn off,† so humans could plausibly lose control of such a situation. This risk is one that’s present even with narrow AI but grows as levels of AI intelligence and autonomy increase. Here is another one: Artificial intelligence and the science of robotics can be put to use in mining and other fuel exploration processes. Not only that, these complex machines can be used for exploring the ocean floor and hence overcome the human limitations.Due to the programming of the robots, they can perform more laborious and hard work with greater responsibility. Moreover, they do not wear out easily. Machines, unlike humans, do not require frequent breaks and refreshments. They are programmed for long hours and can continuously perform without getting bored or distracted or even tired.The principle of operations Machine Learning Systems is that it learns and analyze information by itself. But yet nobody can exact tell operation of AI because nobody created it, but a lot wants to. AI is a basic human, but not in the human body. So in my opinion people will need to create more rules and pressure and control levers to control AI. Machine learning is developing now and take really big steps to develop it and create AI. The big corporation is fully engaged in process of creating and using AI. AI could affect future in different ways, but still, nobody knows how it still all about teaching it properly like a child.Development of skills:When I started doing the project, I had critical thinking skills such as interpreting data, formulating factual and topical questions and revising understanding based on new information. Through the project, I developed such critical thinking skills as evaluating evidence and arguments, drawing reasonable conclusions and generations from the information I was getting during by research in books, internet sources and knowledge that I’ve got on the conferences.I also had communication and social skills which are using appropriate forms of writing for different purposes, participating in digital social media networks and collaborating with peers and experts. I developed the communication skills such as giving and receiving meaningful feedback and using a variety of speaking techniques to communicate with variety of audiences while summarising the information and writing a final version of my essay. How to cite Operation AI and Machine Learning, Papers

Int Business Chocalte Slavetrade vs Fair Trade free essay sample

According to Statistics Canada, Canadians purchase 6. 7 kilograms of chocolate per person each year. An article by the London Daily Telegraphs Rachel Bird warns, Up to 40 percent of the chocolate we eat may be contaminated by slavery. Ivory Coast is the worlds biggest producer of cocoa beans with over a million cocoa farms and plantations. A British TV documentary, Slavery, claims 90 percent of Ivory Coast cocoa plantations use slave labor. Most are young men and boys from impoverished areas inBenign, Togo and Mali are enticed by traffickers who promise them paid work, housing and an education. Instead, they are sold to Ivory Coast cocoa plantation owners who beat them into submission and offer no pay for grueling, 18-hour days. What does the fair trade label mean? Organizations like the U. K. s Fair Trade Foundation and Transfix Canada certify products which meet the principles of the fair trade system. Fair trade means products are purchased directly and at a fair price from small family growers and co operatives that do not rely on hired or illegal forced labor. We will write a custom essay sample on Int Business Chocalte Slavetrade vs Fair Trade or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Growers receive a minimum guaranteed price that covers real production costs, regardless of how low world market prices fall. Fair trade also promotes sustainable agricultural practices which use minimal or no pesticides. On small, family- owned farms, cocoa plants are usually inter-cropped. In contrast, Ivory Coast plantations utilize intensive farming techniques which boosted cocoa production by 95 percent in the 1 9805. More and bigger plantations have caused Ivory Coast rainforests to be literally slashed from 12 million hectares in 1 960 to 2. 6 million hectares today, devastating the areas biodiversity.Every time a chocolate bar is sold, low-income cocoa farmers in Ghana not only receive a fair price for their cocoa beans, but as part owners of the Day Chocolate Company, they receive their share of the profits. To the cocoa growers a fair trade means making the most amount of profit disregarding the conditions of which that profit was made from.

Fragile X Disorder and Communication free essay sample

This paper outlines Fragile X disorder with a detailed description of the biological cause of the disorder, as well as an explanation of the subsequent communication disorders This paper looks at the debilitating disease called Fragile X Disorder. It examines the physical characteristics of people who suffer from this disorder as well as mental and behavioral problems. It focuses on the specific issue of speech impairments causing communication problems. From the paper: Fragile X is the most common inherited cause of developmental and learning disabilities, affecting as many as one person in every 1,000 (Saunders, 1999). Fragile X is a sex-linked genetic disorder and is named so because of a fragile site on the tip of the long arm of the X chromosome where it looks as if a piece of the chromosome is broken off (Saunders, 1999). The gene responsible for the disorder is Fragile Mental Retardation 1 (FMR-1) and can be diagnosed through DNA testing (Saunders, 1999). We will write a custom essay sample on Fragile X Disorder and Communication or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The FMR-1 gene becomes faulty due to an expansion of three nucleotides, Cytosine-Guanine-Guanine (CGG), which inhibits the production of the FMR protein; the FMR protein is essential for normal brain development (Symons, et al, 2001).

«Starring Night»

 «Starring Night » Introduction The painting captures similar themes when analyzed at surface level as well as in relation to the artist’s life. Van Gogh was schizophrenic, yet he managed to make beautiful art. Starring Night is a painting that epitomizes restlessness or turbulence; this was a reflection of the artist’s state of mind.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on  «Starring Night » specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Description of the painting An initial observation of the painting reveals an expansive sky; it accounts for most of the space in the painting. Van Gogh probably called the piece ‘Starring Night’ because bright stars are a prominent feature. White and yellow light surround them while a glaring moon also stands alongside them. In between the moon and the stars are swirls which are a combination of dark and light colors; some are black, others green, yellow, dark and light blue, and to some ext ent white. However, the predominant color is blue, which is the color of the sky. Underneath the sky, one can see a village where some houses, hills as well as other physical features are located. The hills are so tall that they appear to merge with the sky. The painting also has a tree that also stretches to the sky; it is the tallest feature in the village. Gogh’s brushstrokes in the hills as well as the trees face upwards, as though to suggest that the sky is what matters. The pine tree is black, dark green and brown. Since this feature is at the foreground of the painting, it affects one’s overall perception of it. A few houses can be seen clustering next to each other. No human beings are in the Starring Night; this may probably be because most of them were asleep. The most outstanding building is a church, whose spire also points to the sky (Museum Of Modern Art 1). Overall, the interaction of the colors, lines and paintings in the picture gives an impression of restlessness. Analysis Background of the painting It is likely that the theme of turbulence and restlessness reflected Van Gogh’s state of mind. The artist was mentally ill and even did this work of art in an asylum. He struggled with so many aspects of his life. For instance, a special lady rejected him and told him that she would never marry him. He was thrown out of art galleries in Paris. The artist had an abysmal financial situation since he depended on his brother, Theo, for sustenance. His many career changes were fruitless, and he was not making any money as an artist. People misunderstood Gogh; members of his township Arles wanted to ban him from the village after he developed an ear infection.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More He did not even have friends because he always embarrassed or argued with them. Clearly, Van Gogh was an isolated man who could no t find comfort in many things. His experiences in the past led him to a turbulent state of mind. This situation was so serious that it manifested in schizophrenia. One can thus assert that the painting was a reflection of what the artist was going through in his mind. Alternatively, the theme of restlessness may also have been indicative of the dissatisfaction with his situation at the asylum and the longing for normalcy. Perhaps Gogh wanted to go out into the Starring Night and enjoy all the wonderful visuals first hand. However, all he could do was admire the view from his window or use supervised visits around the garden in the asylum (Brooks 29). The effect of lines and color Lines in any work of art show motion. Therefore, when one looks at the way lines in the sky swirl around the moon and the stars, one thinks of movement. Since most of the lines in the painting are not heading in one direction, then one can deduce a mood of restlessness. The choice of color in the painting i s also an indication of the painter’s mood. Warm colors, like yellow, are only present in minimal quantities. The most predominant color is blue, which is a cool color. This color is primarily responsible for the darkness and mystery of the piece. Nonetheless, the blue color has a dark hue, in that it is not the typical sky blue. This one mirrors the color of the sky at night as it is blue-black. If the artist had left the sky uninterrupted by dark lines, then it would have given off a serene or even dreamy feel. The mixture of the dark and cool colors in the form of lines and shades is what contributes to a feeling of turbulence (MacDonald 15). As mentioned earlier, the colors in the picture are bold and captivating. The moon and starts each have bright hues that are hard to ignore. In one of his letters to his sister, he asserted that the stars had a peculiar brilliance, which â€Å"warranted for more than white dots on a blue-black surface† (Van Gogh Museum 76). One may deduce that this artist saw things in a different way through the use of color. Most artists in his era were realists, and his countrymen were quite conservative in their use of color. Most realists relied on pale color and soft, thin lines to create texture. However, Gogh created a new approach to texture by using bold brush strokes. The artists did not paint to please others but he stuck to what he felt was right. Vincent’s preference for bold color was something new and refreshing. Even the way he drew stars was quite unique. The palate in ‘Starring Night’ was substantially different from the palate combinations of other French artists like Millet. In fact, Gogh started out with contemporary influences but quickly changed after he discovered Japanese art. Japanese art had a profound influence on the painter. The artist was defiant and brave in his work since he was willing to pursue trajectories that others shunned. These color choices and the artistsâ₠¬â„¢ past life prove that he was indeed a restless individual. He was not satisfied with the status quo and sought ways to explore new avenues.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on  «Starring Night » specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Choice of features Van Gogh was a spiritual man; in fact, he was so committed to his vocation that it turned into an obsession. This was part of the reason why the artist was sent out of the mission school. Additionally, Gogh’s father was a spiritual minister. When the artist tried to follow in his footsteps, he failed dismally. In the painting, the spire of the church building is the tallest man-made feature. However, its height comes nowhere near that of the cypress tree. The tip of this tree makes contact with sky. One can interpret these two features in light of Gogh’s life. He may have sought solace in the church, but did not find it there. His experiences at the missio n may have shown him that one cannot find spiritual fulfillment in other men. In the painting, the church is a man-made creation. Even though its builders tried to make it as tall as possible, they could not reach the sky. One may construe the sky to symbolize the heavens. Therefore, Gogh was saying that man’s efforts were not sufficient to establish contact with the heavens. On the other hand, if one sought God in nature, one was likely to find him. The cypress tree was tall enough to reach the skies. One may deduce that the author could not find support in a spiritual establishment. He may have been criticizing the existing religious order. Once again, the theme of restlessness comes into play because he is not happy with where he is spiritually, so he must look for answers elsewhere. In line with these sentiments is the fact that the hills appear to face the opposite direction of the church spire. They mirrored a real physical feature in Gogh’s country; they were ca lled Les Alpilles Mountains. Their opposition to the prevailing order may be regarded as proof of the artists’ opinion about the church. The manner in which the images in the diagram have been represented is indicative of the theme of restlessness as well. The stars seem to be bursting out of the sky. Furthermore, the cypress tree looks like it is touching the sky. Even the moon looks like it is covered by a yellow ball. Clearly, these are not conventional representations of the night sky. An artist who was faithful to nature would have revised his choice of color, lines and technique to reflect the actual appearance of the sky; however, Gogh was not such an artist (Boime 55). He was rebellious, and when he had a point to make, he did not hesitate to make it. His use of proportions and the way he drew was a reflection of the artist’s style. Gogh was not satisfied with a mere imitation of nature. This means he was agitated by this approach, so he chose another one that would not reflect contemporary work. Therefore, his approach to art was one that caused turbulence. One of the artists’ centerpieces in the painting is the cypress tree. A lot can be deduced from this choice in features that reflects the state of turbulence in his mind. During Gogh’s time, Cypress trees were common in cemeteries. Additionally, the tree seems to connect the earth and the heavens.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More One may assert that his selection of the tree was indicative of his ideas about death. The painter was at a place where he could not decide whether he wanted to live or die. By choosing a centerpiece that is found in cemeteries, Gogh was thinking about death. The tree touched the heavens because when one dies, one leaves earth and goes to the heavens. The artist was thinking about death but was ambivalent about it. It is likely that the intense movement in the painting reflected this indecision concerning whether he should live or die. There was turbulence in his conscious about the matter. Later, the artist made up his mind about death and committed suicide. He chose death over a life of misery. At the time of painting ‘Starring Night’, the cypress tree reflected the confusion in his conscious about death. Overall, the piece has so many features to analyze that it is possible to become overwhelmed with the process. Trees, hills, houses, stars, the moon, the sky and oth er features are present in the painting. One must determine why the artist selected so many features. It is likely that he would only convey his message if he amalgamated all these aspects together. However, the circular motions and the spiral effect in the sky are what carry the theme. Therefore, the point of emphasis in the painting gives an indication of what one should focus on; in this case it is turbulence. Painting technique From the image, one can deduce that the artist used decisive bush strokes to color his piece. This practice was not common in his society. Impressionist artists relied on a method of drawing that involved joining several dots together to form the impression of color. However, Gogh got bored of this style when living in Paris. He devised his own method of painting that was quite different from the rest. These decisive brush strokes contribute towards the turbulence of the piece. It would have been quite difficult to convey that sentiment if the author util ized the impressionist method in ‘Starring Night’. The decisiveness of the brush strokes was crucial in creating a feeling of chaos or turbulence. The circular lines needed to be in unison with another in order to have this effect. Using joined dotes, like the impressionists, would have been insufficient to create this effect (Hulsker 93). Conclusion Starring night as a work of art carries forward the theme of restlessness. This is evident in the artist’s use of color. He mixes cool colors with dark ones in a manner that creates this mood. Additionally, his painting technique which involves decisive brush strokes also testifies to the turbulence of the piece. His choice of objects and emphasis reflects the turbulence in the artist’s mind. The cypress tree was an indication of his confusion about death. The unconventional stars were an indication of the turbulence in his life. He was also unconventional like the stars, and this led to his isolation. This pa inting’s theme is an expression of the artists’ life. Boime, Albert. Van Gogh: Starry Night: Art history in detail. NY: Voyager, 1996. Print. Brooks, David. Starry Night. Amsterdam: Brooks, 2012. Print. Hulsker, Jan. The complete Van Gogh: paintings, drawings, sketches. NY: Random House, 1986. Print. MacDonald, Mary. â€Å"Who was Vincent?† Artist’s Monthly 1.6(1990): 15. Print. Museum Of Modern Art. 2013. Vincent Van Gogh: The Starring Night, June 1889. 2013. Web. https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79802 Van Gogh Museum. 2013. Vincent Van Gogh letters. 2013. Web. http://vangoghletters.org/vg/letters/let782/letter.html

Homeschooling Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Homeschooling - Essay Example According to Green and Dempsey home school parents’ beliefs about the values, content, adequacy, and methods of public school education appear to be implicated less strongly in their decisions.† (Green & Dempsey) Home schooling is considered to be the process by which children are educated at home alone without studying in a class with other students. It is a response to many weaknesses that many parents have detected in the public education system. Home-schooling is an option for parents who wish to provide their children with a different learning environment than that which exists in public schools. It is also an alternative for those families who are unable, for practical or personal reasons, to comply with the regulations of a public school. Therefore, as Chris Lubienski mentions, home schooling may be defined as â€Å"a flight from modern American school.† The present trend is based on various factors which motivate parents to choose home schooling as an option for giving education to their children. This form of schooling provides better family bonding and socialization with the family members as most students are studying within the home environment and in close knit set up with the other family members and siblings. The flexibility of choosing the most productive time for schooling activities is also very encouraging. If there may be a family event or some family function, the study time can be adjusted accordingly. In the present times with good connection and internet and online information, it is easy to get information and use it for study purpose. The online information provide good platform for research and guidance with regard to school curriculum. Many schools and forums also have information related to home schooling. The present trend can also be said to lay foundation for the future trend, which will make the information easy task for the parents as well as for children who are home schooled. In the 1960’s and 1970’s lot of research

Marijuana should be legalized in the united states Essay

Marijuana should be legalized in the united states - Essay Example Diseases like nausea, vomiting, glaucoma etc can be treated effectively with marijuana. Moreover, it can be used a pain reliever, hunger stimulant etc. Even though marijuana has good potential in medical science, it has not achieved the status of a medicine yet in America. FDA has not shown green signal to marijuana yet. It is still included in the list of drugs which are misused for changing moods rather than treating diseases. Roth (2008) has pointed out that â€Å"To date, marijuana is still classified as an illegal Schedule 1 drug by the Controlled Substances Act. It is defined as having "no accepted medical use in treatment in the United States" (Roth). This paper argues in favor of legalization of marijuana in United Sates, after analyzing the arguments in favor and against it. Pundits like Fox Newss Glenn Beck and former judge Andrew Napolitano have joined in the debate, on the pro-legalization side. "You know what, I think its about time we legalize marijuana. Hear me out for a second†¦" Beck told viewers in April. "We have to make a choice in this country. We have to either put people who are smoking marijuana behind bars, or we legalize it. But this little game were playing in the middle is not helping us, and is causing massive violence on our southern border." Even Sarah Palin, whos opposed to legalization, has called pot a relatively "minimal problem," telling Fox Business Network this summer, "I think we need to prioritize our law-enforcement efforts. And if somebodys gonna smoke a joint in their house and not do anybody else harm, then perhaps there are other things our cops should be looking at to engage in and try to clean up some of the other problems that we have in society"(Conant and Maloney) Neither the administration, nor the judiciary has any ideas about what to do with the issue of legalization of marijuana. Instead of conducting a pilot study to learn more about the pros and cons of marijuana use, the

Management Solutions Using the PISCO Methodology Case Study

Management Solutions Using the PISCO Methodology - Case Study Example Many people have already transferred from place to place and a lot of those people, the so-called immigrants, have already decided to stay and work on the foreign lands they have gone to. Hence, the main effect of this social move on achieving success on other places, the employment of the multicultural population has been the resort to supporting the lives of the said immigrants. Hence, the workforce of every company making up the business industries is at times having the same worries on how to face the challenge of dealing with and managing people who are widely different from each other.Understanding this particular factor suggests that Lael Matthews is indeed facing a particular management dilemma that practically subjects her to a decision that needs to be made abruptly and systematically understanding the fact that this particular decision would directly affect the organization as a whole. Having this responsibility established right upon her shoulder, it could be observed how important her decision is going to be in connection with the growth of the organization that she is standing for. To know how complex the matter is, the definition of the entire situation shall be presented below.There are three managers vying for the promotion that is to be given to only one particular candidate. Among the candidates included three major personnel which included Liz, Roy and Quang Yeh. All particular individuals have had their own chances of serving the organization for quite some time and had been able to find ways to improve the progress of the business for some certain ways in their own remarkable ways.

Analysis of the New Labour Welfare Ideology and Policy

Analysis of the New Labour Welfare Ideology and Policy How and why does the governments new deal typify new labour welfare ideology? Are there elements of new labour welfare ideology and new deal policy which find echo in welfare ideologies and policies prevailing in early periods of welfare (Elizabethan and Victorian poor laws. Does social liberalism influencing early 20c welfare reforms and the architecture of the Beveridge welfare state still play a part in new labour welfare ideology and the new deal? Does the new deal and its ideological underpinnings represent a radical departure from or a continuation of new right approaches to poverty and unemployment. Outlined below is a critical review of the present government’s New Deal policy that takes into account the influence of past and present welfare ideologies upon New Deal’s development, objectives, and procedures. Originally the government had no role in welfare provision, this was left to local parish churches, almshouses, and before their dissolution, the monasteries. Each parish decided which of the poor deserved help, and which of the poor were not deserving of help. Those that were undeserving or came from other parishes had the unsavoury choices of begging, relying on charity, finding work, or simply starving to death. Those that did receive help often had to work to earn that help. There was little understanding of the causes of unemployment or underemployment. People no longer worked because they were no longer physically capable of working, trade was poor, or because they were being idle. The first legislation to deal with welfare provision was during the reign of Richard II; it was the precursor of further intervention during Elizabethan and Victorian times, and most notably in the 20th century. From the Elizabethan Poor Laws through to the Victorian era Poor Law Amendment Act the dominating feature of welfare ideology was that welfare provision should be as limited as possible, and that people should be dissuaded from applying for poor relief payments. Welfare payments were not a right, they were restricted to the most deserving or the most desperate, and who were often made to feel ashamed that they needed help. The Poor Laws were primarily a means of social control that were administered by the parishes, and were paid for by local ratepayers (Moran, 2005 p.14). The Poor Laws had at first been used as a way to keep families together and in their own homes. However, ratepayers resented paying for poor relief which led to the establishment of the dreaded workhouses to reduce the amount of poor relief provided. The Poor Law Amendment Act made the workhouses the normal system of providing welfare, and they imposed draconian conditions on anybody unfortunate enough to need thei r help. People had to undertake arduous tasks in return for receiving very basic food, clothing, and accommodation; many also had to endure the breaking up of their families. The workhouses demeaned and effectively penalised people that had been unable to help themselves (Fisher, Denver, Benyon, 2003 p.12). Although New Deal does not humiliate benefit claimants, it does make the continuance of benefit payments dependent upon them attending their New Deal placements; they even receive small top up payments. The New Deal operates on a carrot and stick principle, whilst the Poor Laws in general, and the workhouses in particular operated on the stick principle (Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.4). The welfare ideologies linked to the Poor Laws attracted criticism leading to proposals to offer welfare provisions without harsh qualifying conditions, and more generous poor relief. Research into poverty by Rowntree and others helped to change public attitudes towards the poor. Unemployment, underemployment, old age, and physical incapacity rather than idleness caused poverty. Support for changing welfare ideologies was detectable within the Liberal Party, trade unions, co-operatives, and in the Labour Party. New or, social Liberalism regarded the welfare ideology of the Poor Laws as been unjust and harsher towards the poor than it should have been. Liberal governments had intervened in the economy to introduce safety standards, yet took longer to establish a minimalist welfare state. The Liberal governments between 1906 and 1914 introduced limited old age pensions, unemployment benefits, national insurance contributions, and labour exchanges. The welfare provisions introduced by t he Liberals were not universal and payments were only made to those people that had paid national insurance contributions. Payments under this system were not particularly generous, yet they prevented the people that received them from having to resort to the workhouses to survive. The welfare ideology of the Liberal governments was that the government should provide minimum levels of help to stop people becoming destitute, it allowed some people to retire without having to fear the prospect of going into the workhouse. Unemployment benefits, although they only lasted for limited periods, helped families to survive periods of unemployment without losing their homes or being forcibly separated from each other by being forced into the workhouses. Labour exchanges, the forerunners of present day Job centres, allowed people to search for employment, whilst allowing employers the opportunity to recruit workers to fill their vacancies. New Deal can be argued to share things in common with the welfare ideologies linked with New Liberalism. Firstly the unemployed are encouraged to find employment as their benefits may only be awarded for a short -term period (Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.3). Whilst the welfare measures introduced by the new or social Liberals took many people out of the scope of the Poor Laws, they were not universal measures that proved inadequate for reducing poverty during the inter-war period. The Labour Party became the main exponents of expanding welfare provision, although the Labour government decided to cut unemployment benefits in 1931 in order to balance the budget. Labour had to wait until its 1945 general election victory before it could implement it’s a vision of the welfare state, heavily influenced by the Beveridge Report. The Atlee government introduced universal benefits such as Family Allowance and even benefits for people on low incomes that had not paid national insurance contributions. National insurance was expanded to cover everybody, married women that had not worked received retirement pensions based upon their husbands’ contributions (Moran, 2005, p.18). New Deal sticks with the idea of universalism, as everybody that has been unemployed for the qualifying period has to go on the scheme irrespective of their past national insurance contributions. New Deal does allow people different schemes to match all past experiences and their skills. There is flexibility as long as people are willing to on the scheme (Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.2). The post-war welfare state remained virtually unaltered until the Thatcher government came into office in 1979. Thatcher objected to the ways in which the welfare state operated, as it was too generous and provided little incentive for people to find work. Thatcherite economic policies were supposed to reduce the size of public spending, yet they were responsible for unemployment rising from one million to over three million (Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.4). The Thatcher government responded in various ways, for instance changing the definition of unemployment and switching people from unemployment benefit to incapacity benefit or income support. The Thatcher government also introduced work and training placement schemes such as Youth Training and Training for Work to improve the employment prospects of people that had been long-term unemployed. These placement schemes can be regarded as being the direct forerunners to New Deal. They too used the carrot and stick approac h; in fact people received a small top up to their benefits by joining the schemes or faced losing benefits for not going on placement. People that found employment once they had finished their placements could qualify for bonus payments as well Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.3). The Conservatives replaced unemployment benefit with Job-seekers Allowance that placed a greater emphasis on people actively seeking employment. People deemed unwilling to search for work either lost benefit outright or had it reduced. New Labour has not removed the sanctions available to decision makers to penalise people that are not actively seeking work (Seldon Kavanagh, 2005 p.416). New Deal has elements that make it compulsory for people to go on the scheme. New Deal differs from previous schemes in that more groups are liable to go through it. New Labour was keen that New Deal would improve employment rates amongst the under 25s, lone parents, the disabled and the over 50s. These groups are traditionally the groups that find it hardest to find jobs. New Deal places an increased onus upon people to increase their efforts to gain a job after finishing their placements. In return, people are given extra advice on gaining jobs by New Deal advisers Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.4). There are incentives to help encourage people to get jobs after New Deal. For instance, if they take a low paid job they have their income boosted by working tax credits. New Deal has arguably succeeded in reducing the numbers of long-term unemployed and making people more employable. It also provides advise for people such as lone parents that had not previously been helped when looking to gain employment (Department for Work and Pensions, 2004, p.3). Thus the New Deal has been influenced by various welfare ideologies from past and present. The idea behind New Deal is a simple one, getting people back in to work by giving them up to date training and work experience, thereby improving employment prospects. Just like the welfare provided under the auspices of the Poor Laws people have to work to gain payments, if they are unwilling to do so they lose entitlement. It differs from the Poor Laws in that people receive extra from going on the scheme and can receive extra for finding work after completing it. In other respects, New Deal is based on welfare ideologies that are influenced by New Liberalism and the welfare state established by the Atlee government. It is available to anybody that has been unemployed long enough. There are also elements that be traced to ideas from the New Right, provide incentives for those do well, and penalise those that will not take part. Bibliography Department for Work and Pensions (2004) Building on New Deal: Local solutions meeting individual needs, Her Majesty’s Stationary Office, London Fisher J, Denver D, Benyon J, (2003) Central Debates in British Politics, Longman, London Moran M, (2005) Politic and Governance in the UK, Palgrave, Basingstoke Seldon A Kavanagh D, (2005) The Blair Effect 2001 – 5, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge

Many Forms of Plagiarism :: Cheating Writing Education Essays

Many Forms of Plagiarism missing works cited One of the main goals of teachers everywhere is to guide their students to write in a narrative style that carries the reader along logically. Their job is to teach writing skills to enhance this and to help them along their learning journey. In most cases, this begins at an early age with the typical, â€Å"What I did on my summer vacation† story that almost everyone wrote every September in Grammar School. Slowly but surely, the stories got longer and as time did not permit in the classroom, they were being assigned homework. Once the student was out of the watchful eye of the teacher, control over how a student’s story was written was lost. If a student isn’t too imaginative, or is lazy, or waits until the last minute and panics, he or she may look at an alternative way of doing a paper as opposed to doing it themselves. They could have a friend write it, get one from someone in a similar course or, now in the age of the computer simply download one in a matter of seconds. All these dishonest methods of obtaining a paper are forms of plagiarism. It’s when you sign your name to someone else’s work, either in full or in part and there can be severe consequences. To combat the increasing ease of committing plagiarism, educators have had to become just as innovative as their students. Plagiarism exists throughout the educational life of students. It is kind of a test to the student to not participate in this illegal and immoral activity. Though this is a tough challenge to resist, it will make you a better student if you don’t cheat. Not only will this resistance make you a better student; it will ultimately make you a better person later on in your life. This will be the case when you get a career in which you will be responsible to make your own decisions, without the aid of any help. Most jobs no matter what they are, require some type of independent work. If someone plagiarizes throughout their life they will be in a lot of trouble once they get out of University by being unable to perform their job on their own. Plagiarism exists in many forms. The following are examples of plagiarism cases according to Brock University.

Tools and Skills for Performance Consulting

Useful Tools and Techniques for Performance Consulting Many researchers have developed experiments within several organizations that demonstrate the right approach to effective performance consulting. Bell and Jones (2008) reported that â€Å"Research and theorizing recognizes that a manager's identification and judgment of a moral problem is a subjective, socially constructed process that can be influenced by principles, theories, and values†(p. 503). Furthermore, research also offers suggestions that serve as a useful guide when engaging in the consulting process.However, when consulting there are seven critical skills that must be used when consulting, and they are as follows; one must define clear objectives and goals, maintain confidentiality, involve people that will be affected by project, forge a partnership, have clear communication, develop contract, and also have a strategy. The purpose of this research paper is to correlate different ways that prove some technical and critical skills of consulting. This paper also intends to give examples and offer techniques used through research that can help one to consult flawlessly.There are several different strategies that can be used during the performance consulting process. When engaging in performance consulting the consultant should find out some information about the company prior to meeting with the client. According to Thamain (2004), effective consultants are social architects who foster a climate of active participation by involving people at all organizational levels in the assessment of the existing system, and in the planning and implementation of the desire change.They also build alliances with support organizations and upper management to assure visibility, priority, resource availability, and overall support for sustaining the organizational improvement beyond its implementation phase†(p. 42). The first section highlights and analyzes the seven critical skills needed to consult. T he second section suggests guidelines for the five tools and techniques which can be used to consult flawlessly. Lastly, the final section acknowledges some leadership behaviors that can be used to help organizations meet their needs.One of the key concepts to consulting is to understand the basic needs of a client. When making initial contact with the client, the purpose of the project must be defined immediately. In addition to that, it is good to make sure that both the consultant and client are clear of what the objective of the project is. From the start be sure to develop a mutual understanding of what the issue is, and if there are any underlying problems that contribute to this. If employees need to be involved, it is best to relate the intervention being used to the companies’ goals or mission statement.Employees show much more interest knowing that their involvement will help for the better of the organization and not just one individual. According to Thamhain (2004 ), â€Å"Organizational members are more likely to engage in a development initiative if they perceive it to be clearly related to the goals of the company. Clear linkages between the intervention and company mission, goals, and objectives create enthusiasm and desire to participate, as well as lowering anxieties and helping to unify the people behind the intervention†(p. 42).The employees must feel confident about the interventions that are going to be used if not they will be less reluctant to offer insight. The consultant must also inform the client to keep staff informed on the status of the project so that the client feels they’re playing a role in the consulting process. Understanding the basic needs of the client could help the process to get executed in a timely manner. During the consulting process one must expect some resistance at some point, because employees may feel like the consultant hasn't made them feel confident about the outcome of the project.Anoth er key aspect of consulting is to maintain confidentiality. In addition to that, the client must feel that any information that is revealed in the project will not be leaked out to anyone outside of the organization. This is a useful tool to help to ensure buy in from the client and any employees that might be involved in the project. If client does not feel that the companies’ information is secure then the information provided will not be accurate. Confidentiality can be linked to several aspects of the consulting process, in that it can help you to understand what clients value most.According to Parker (2003) , when you develop a better understanding of what clients value it can increase both client satisfaction and help improve a organization’s performance (Parker, 2003). By understanding your client’s needs it will help link objectives of the project closely to the goals of the company. Consequently, this will help to gain more support from not only clients , but also the consultant will receive even more support from individuals within the organization. By understanding the client’s needs it increases the probability of getting to the root of the problem.In the end this will help to make implementation and feedback go smoothly. Thamain (2004 ) reported that â€Å"Consultant’s will have a better chance for smooth implementation and for gaining organizational acceptance of the new system if they can show that the newly developed process is consistent with already established values, principles, and practices, rather than a new order to be imposed†(p. 43). In the consulting process it is very important to involve any party who will be affected by the project. By involving all parties who will be affected by project it will help to obtain a better outcome.Once employees know that there is something in it for them, they feel obligated to offer information. Throughout this process the employer must value their employees ’ opinion, as well as offer support and recognition. This will help to enhance employee engagement on the regular issues that come up on a daily basis. Thamhain (2004) reported that, â€Å"While expert based consulting has dominated the project management field, it is critical to also engage in more process oriented consulting, ensuring that relevant organizational members are part of the intervention† (p. 3). In addition to that Sussman and Norton (2009) reported that â€Å"to achieve excellence, organizations must seek and implement effective tools and techniques to transform quality from an abstract concept to a shared value embedded in the fabric of everyday part of an organization† (p. 7). It is important to involve anyone who will be affected because they are the best change agents when it comes to assessing the situation, searching for solutions, and evaluating new tools and techniques.One of a consultant’s most useful tools is being capable of for ging a partnership with the client. This is useful in that once this is established it helps create a joint effort in executing the issue and discovering what the objective will be. It is very important to learn some background information about your client prior to your first meeting. Lacey, Thompkins, and Egan (2007) reported that â€Å"Internal practitioners must understand the language and culture in which they operate.In business organizations this means a working knowledge of key business processes including strategy formulation and implementation within a global context. While Consultants are not hired to be experts in strategy, they must have an understanding of the unique expertise that offers in ensuring the success of strategic initiatives† (p. 2). With that being said, this is one of the key concepts to successful consulting in that it assures the client that you are serious about affecting change within the organization.In addition to that, clients tend to feel m ore comfortable when they are confident that you are looking out for their best interest. Furthermore, from beginning to the end of the consulting process both parties must have clear communication, and both the consultant and client should make all phases of the process clear to everyone involved in the project. Having clear communication can help establish what direction the project will go in and will also build up the client’s confidence of having a successful outcome.By establishing this you will better understand what the clients expectations are, and you will already have an idea of what it will take to get there. According toThamhain (2004), team members will be more likely with implementing new management processes, tools, and techniques to cooperate with necessary organizational requirements, if management clearly articulates the criticality to business performance and the benefits to the organization and it’s members (Thamhain 2004).Communication helps both the client and the consultant feel more comfortable and it also leaves room to receive honest feedback from all parties involved in the process. According to Mellor and Dewhurst (2009), when you establish a line of sight, an effective internal communication function helps make sure the strategy is clearly defined and supports people translating the business strategy into action (Mellor and Dewhurst, 2009).Furthermore, effective communication helps everyone be accountable for the objectives or any measures that they come across, and whatever get measured usually gets done. Several companies have discovered that when consulting the contract is one of the most important things of the process. It helps to protect both the client and the consultant. This serves as the agreement where the consultant and client define each other’s roles in executing the project. Norton Jr. nd Sussman (2009), reported that â€Å"contracts, agreements in principle, and letters of understanding are ex amples of documents designed to transform implicit assumptions into explicit behaviors; however, each prescribes expectations or behaviors at the individual level rather than the team level† (p. 9). When consulting another critical skill is having a strategy set up in a way that both the consultant and the client understand how to move forward. Communication is key because it helps everyone involved in the process understand what is expected of them by opening clear barriers of communication.According to Sussman and Norton (2009), when one is communicating a strategy an effective team uses tactics that enable managers and employees to discuss, engage and internalize the strategy so that they can bring it to life, understand what it means and translate it into everyday actions and behaviors (Sussman and Norton, 2009). Therefore, consultants must understand that using strategies and brainstorming is one of the key concepts of the consulting process, and if this is not establishe d from the beginning the entire project will be a disaster.It is also important to establish rapport with the client in that it will help to build a stronger collaborative working relationship throughout the process. Owen, Goldwasser, Choate, and Blitz (2008) reported that â€Å"by translating the business strategy into operational goals, and by creating structures and processes to enable collaboration across all segments of the organization, innovation leaders can motivate and enable new behavior† (p. 40). Furthermore, research often suggests several types of critical steps that are involved in consulting, however, it is solely up to the consultant to assess the situation before he or she enters it.In addition to that, researchers also identify the right approach to performance consulting as well as different techniques that have proven to be successful. Critical steps to consulting also can serve as a useful guide to making the process much smoother to both the client and t he consultant. Research has been done and it has proven that when entering the consulting process, it is key to find out information about the organization prior to meeting with them. As stated earlier in the paper organizational members are more likely to engage in a development initiative if they perceive it to be clearly related to the goals of the company.Thamhain (2004) reported that â€Å"it is crucial, however, that these team initiatives be integrated with the overall business process and supported by management† (p. 44). Therefore, any of the tools listed above must be supplemented into the continuously changing of business processes. In addition to that these tools must be updated and tested on an ongoing basis. In the consulting process a tool can be considered as a model, checklist, or a series of steps that can help guide both the client and the consultant through the process.Furthermore, successful consulting requires consultants to use tools and techniques that are useful in executing the process. Thamhain reported that (2004) â€Å"successful implementation of new project management tools and processes often requires modifications of organizational structures, policies, and practices† (p. 44). In addition to that it is very important to have support of management when coming up with team initiatives. However, to gain the benefits of a new project management’s tool or technique it is also important that everyone involved perceive this as a win-win situation.Some ways to ensure this is to carefully plan with all parties involved during all of the consulting phases. Consultants should also be open for suggestions, and hold open discussions which encourage all parties to be more proactive in the future. Therefore five tools and techniques that can aid to consult flawlessly are alignment, commitment, contracting, and authenticity, and empathy. According to Owen, Goldwasseer, Choate, and Blitz (2008), to avoid the pitfalls of col laborative innovation, our research and experience show the best building blocks of consulting are: alignment, boundaries and commitment, which they call the ABC’s.Alignment entails synchronizing the strategic vision and innovation goals with the implementation of these throughout the organization, focusing on collaboration both vertically and horizontally (Owen, Goldwasser (Lawrence Owen, 2008), Choate, and Blitz, 2008). When consulting from the start of the process the consultant must define what each other’s roles will be throughout the entire process. It is very important to understand what the client’s expectations are and then work solely off of what the client wants and what the he hopes to accomplish.Owen, Goldwasser, Choate, and Blitz (2008) stated that â€Å"Alignment is a key step in ensuring that the business strategy is communicated and enabled throughout the organization both vertically and horizontally. Alignment also requires looking at the orga nization from the perspective of innovation objectives, and then using the insights gained to position the organization to meet those objectives† (p. 39). Vertical alignment helps to explain the business strategy objective and also transforms it into an organizational strategy as well as an implementation plan.This helps to provide both the client and consultant comfortable about change in the future. Horizontal alignment requires the implementation of a new organizational unit for redefining the existing one. Thamhain (2004) reported that â€Å"If at all possible the introduction of new management tools and techniques should be consistent with the established project management practices within the organization. The more the new order of operation is congruent with the existing practices, procedures, and distributed knowledge of the organization, the more self sustaining and successful the change intervention will be† (p. 4). This is where the highest level of acceptan ce is found because these useful tools are added incrementally. When implementing new tools and techniques they should be tested on smaller projects with those who are more experienced. Thamhain (2002) suggest that â€Å"ensuring that organizational members are more proactive and aggressive toward change is not an easy task but must be facilitated systematically by both consultants and management. Any project management tool or technique, for example must be integrated into the continuously changing business process† (p. 6). When coming up with new techniques it is also important to ensure that the client understands what role he or she will play during the implementation stage. To avoid these problems one must conduct a thorough assessment of the problem, and he also must have some background information on the company. Commitment is one of the most important things in the consulting process. In that it helps the consultant obtain buy in from the client and members who becom e a part of the project.In addition to that, this helps to ensure that everyone is working towards one common goal, and it will alleviate all confusion between the consultant and client. Owen, Goldwasser, Choate, and Blitz (2008) reported that â€Å"organizations that are serious about collaboration for innovation make an ongoing commitment to transformation and change. Creating a collaborative culture happens over time through leadership communication and reinforcement, the development and ongoing tracking of key measures, and institutionalized learning and knowledge management to continually develop the capabilities needed for collaborative innovation† (p. 1). The consultant should be able to facilitate change whereas it will foster a climate for continuous learning and improvement. Furthermore, this means that the consultant and client should maintain collaboration and reuse it. Over time this will help to establish processes to learn and change. Consequently, this will he lp the client be able to aid himself in solving issues within the company in the future internally. One of the most important aspects of consulting is empathy which means understanding the nature of the client’s problem.This is important because it will make your client feel much more comfortable about revealing important information. The consultant must also get to the root of the problem and find any underlying issues that may be making the problem get worse. According to Parker (2003) research suggest that work with a client can often be extended simply by gaining a better understanding of where the client wants to go and what impedes getting there—a process that requires explicit exploration with the client of these broader aspirations and related frustrations.While this may be stating the obvious, consulting teams often become so focused on the engagement at hand that they don’t consider the client’s broader needs until the end of the assignment (Par ker, 2003). Research has been done by Kostman and Schiemann (2005), which suggest that the most commonly used principles and techniques include continuous improvement, customer satisfaction, loyalty measurements, and project management (Kostman and Schiemann, 2005).In addition to that, after conducting surveys and research, it was found that organizations who receive the highest marks for successful implementation of quality initiatives are those that have support from top leadership, possess and quality culture and do a good job of managing their people effectively. Research has the shown the relationship between employee engagement and organizational performance. Kostman and Schiemann reported that (2005) â€Å"engaged employees –those more highly connected and committed to their organization –dramatically outperform their peers on numerous measures, including their attention to quality and service.They further said that this does indeed contribute to the successful implementation of quality initiatives but is only one part of the bigger picture† (p. 40). Furthermore during the consulting process, there are several techniques that can be used, however one must look deeper into the problem and decide what approach is suitable to help circumvent the problem. During the consulting process, tools such as commitment and being able to facilitate change are key concepts because this is what will help keep the collaborative effort throughout.It is also important when using these tools to have some of the goals of the project linked closely to the goals of the organization. Kostman and Shciemann (2005) reported that â€Å"gaining top leadership support, developing quality minded cultures and more effectively managing the hidden driver of quality—people equity—are the critical difference between success and failure† (Kostman and Schiemann, 2005). Lastly, consulting requires a lot of action research that the majority of the tim e helps uncover any underlining problems or issue in the organization that may cause the entire project to collapse.Therefore, to consult flawlessly these tools will help to obtain buy in as well as maintain confidentiality, and it helps all parties feel more comfortable in presenting authentic information. When one serves as the leader of an organization it is important to understand your employees and leave open communication so that employees feel that they are capable of consulting their boss when they need help. In addition to that a leader must acknowledge his employees’ at all times to help them to feel more comfortable and appreciated for their performance.Further, a leader must be authentic with his staff especially when it comes to on the job assigned duties. It is important to be able to not only reward your staff but encourage your staff to exceed all aspects of the job for the better of the organization. Fleet and Griffin (2006) stated that â€Å"if a top manage r is commonly known to be untruthful, if a leader does not respect the rights of others, or if the leader puts profits before all else, others in the organization will likely recognize the signals.As the signals get institutionalized throughout the firm, it’s culture will become increasingly dysfunctional†(p. 704 ). Most organizations are centered around the leader or CEO, and the example he sets or how he leads the company can have a major impact on his or her employees. Consequently, leaders play a major part in how the company and its employees function within the organization. It is important for the leader to be open to receiving ideas from his staff in that it helps employees to feel like opinion count and that they can make a difference in the company.Harris and Kuhnert stated (2008) that â€Å"acknowledging the ideas of others is paramount to increasing success within the organization and makes leaders at this level more effective. This level of development is not without drawbacks, because leaders still depend on input from outside sources to make decisions. The opinions of others matter more, and leaders risk making decisions by depending on those who lack the appropriate expertise† (p. 50). Seeking information from leaders have a better probability and it also is much less riskier than seeking advice from someone who is unaware of what’s going on in the organization.However, leaders must recognize that for an organization to be successful the example that he sets forth must help his staff in meeting all of the companies’ needs as well as keep their performance on a consistent level. Reward and punishment plays a major in the behavior of your employees as well as how leaders delegate to their staff what is expected. According to Bell and Jones (2007), a rule or behavior is conventional if it is recognized to be valued in one group but not necessarily applicable to thers, or moral if it is considered necessary to be f ollowed by everyone regardless of group membership or local preferences (Bell and Jones, 2007). Furthermore, leaders also must help his staff adapt to change and he should paint his employees a mental picture of his vision and where he would like for the company to be on an ongoing basis. Harris and Kuhnert (2008) reported that â€Å"leading change encompasses the ability to challenge the status quo, and higher level leaders do not define themselves by how others see them.Effective leaders acquire their source of understanding within, that is, who they are and can relinquish ties with outside sources to make effective decisions† (p. 61). The main goal of a consultant is to affect changes in their clients which will help achieve the purpose more effectively. In addition to that, a consultant should know what his client is capable of doing and what he actually can do. For leadership to achieve business needs, they must increase staff morale to improve employee performance, and must not allow employees too many options for when company goals aren’t being met.Schaffer (1999) stated that â€Å"to ensure success each project should be constructed to produce plan that the client is ready, willing, and able to implement. Also instead of tackling a huge project all at once, the client and the consultant can carve off sub-projects, each focused on a near term goal that both parties are reasonably certain can be achieved. It is important for leadership to be aware of what is working well and what is not working well. However, they must also have an idea of what an improved system might look like, and facilitate learning to the employees so that they help to keep this system consistent.According to Kendra and Taplin (2004), â€Å"the primary tool for change is education that is designed to increase people ideas, beliefs, and behaviors, which will bring about new approaches to organizational challenges† (p. 23). Many consultants try studying a problem in whole and offering a complete remedy before the problem is diagnosed, or before uncovering any underlying problems. Moreover, consultants define the project in terms of their expertise and not in terms of the clients specific results that need to be achieved.What’s more important is that leaders must understand what their employees are contributing to the company and they must be effective in helping them meet company goals. Fleet and Griffin (2006) stated â€Å"some important factors that help management achieve business needs are, how leaders reward and punish employees, agendas that are set for meetings, how they react to problematic situations for change, whether they follow the companies’ code of ethics, and how they decide who gets promoted or receives special privileges† (p. 704).As a result, it is important for consultants to examine how leaders construct meaning out of particular situations because it may help clarity why some leaders are effective while others are not. Harris and Kuhnert (2008) stated that â€Å"evaluating leadership effectiveness can prove quite difficult due to the complexity of organizational success indicators, difficulty in obtaining such information, and external factors often beyond the leader’s control. Therefore some suggest a 360 degree feedback can serve as a proxy measure for leadership effectiveness, because it provides us with a well-rounded measure of performance† (p. 1). Also leaders need to be comfortable with dealing with conflict at all levels, and they must be able to handle people’s resistance to change. Besides if leaders aren’t capable of facilitating change they won’t be considered as effective change agents. According to Harris and Kuhnert (2008), research suggest that to improve a organizations’ functions one should involve individuals from within the organization which may further develop individuals and lead to a larger organizational chang e (Harris and Kuhnert, 2008).Consequently, leadership plays an undeniably central role in the successful operation of a company. Also leadership responsiveness to employee requests will result in more favorable employee attitudes and behavior. The environment that the company provides plays a major role in leadership behaviors. Moreover flawless consulting involves many critical steps and useful tools that were provided in this paper, which was supported by research. In addition flawless consulting requires clear communication, authenticity, and confidentiality.Consultants must realize that with all projects you must have an objective and a ultimate goal that needs to be accomplished in the end that is measurable. However, consultant and client must have a collaborative effort from the start of the project. Further they must establish each other’s roles and map out a game plan and put it in writing. This serves as a agreement that can be referred to throughout the entire proc ess. Facilitating change is another tool that will prove to be effective throughout your project.As a result, to consult flawlessly consultants must involve everyone who will be affected by the project. Therefore, when it comes to consulting there are several rules of engagement that must be adhered to in order affect change within an organization. Antonio Tencati, L. Z. (2008). The Collaborative Enterprise. Journal of Business Ethics , 367-376. Retrieved from ABI/Inform Global on February 24, 2009 Chris M. Bell, J. H. -J. (2007). Power, Self-Regulation and the Moralization of Behavior. Journal of Business Ethics , 503-514. Retrieved from ABI Inform Global on February 29, 2009Antonio Tencati, L. Z. (2008). The Collaborative Enterprise. Journal of Business Ethics , 367-376. Chris M. Bell, J. H. -J. (2007). Power, Self-Regulation and the Moralization of Behavior. Journal of Business Ethics , 503-514. Dewhurst, V. M. (2009). A Definitive Framework for Internal Communication. Strategic Communication Research Forum , 16-19. Griffin, D. D. (2006). Dysfunctional Organizational Culture. Journal of Managerial Psychology , 698-708. Lauren S. Harris, K. W. (2007). Looking through the Lens of Leadership: A Constructive Developmental Approach.Leadership and Organizational Development Journal , 47-67. Lawrence Owen, C. G. (2008). Collaborative Innovation throughout the extended Enterprise. Emerald Group Publishing , 39-45. Retrieved from ABI/Inform Global on March 30, 2009 Miriam Y. Lacey, T. C. (2007). Curriculum Implications Based on Analysis of Internal Consulting Best Practices. Organizational Development Journal , 199-233. Parker, S. (2003). Understanding What Clients Value. ABI Inform Global , 5. Schaffer, R. H. (1999). Replacing Recommendations with Results. Consulting Psychology Journal , 242-251.Sussman, W. I. (2009). Team Charters: Theoretical Foundations and Practical Implications for Quality and Performance. The Quality Management Journal , 7-17. Taplin, K. A. ( 2004). Change agent Competencies for Information Technology Project Managers. Consulting Psychology Journal , 20-34. Ted Shore, T. S. (2006). Leadership Responsiveness, Equity, Sensitivity, and Employee Attitudes and Behavior. Journal of Business and Psychology , 227-241. Thahmain, H. J. (2004). 15 Rules for Consulting in Support of a Client Project. ABI/Inform Global , 42-46.

buy custom Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization v. Winn essay

buy custom Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization v. Winn essay The two parties in this case are Arizona School Tuition Organization versus Winn-Post Decision. The Arizona taxpayers criticized the constitution of Arizonas tuition tax in the federal court at the district level. The criticism was because the constitution humiliated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment as it channeled money towards the private institutions that are religious but the case was given a dump and was dismissed (Shapiro, 2011). It was during the appealing that the United States court of appeal inverted case that the taxpayers stood firm in bringing forth their suit and had alleged through the establishment of the clause claim. The facts about it all were that someone who is taxpayer does not lay a stand to a foundation to seek for relief in the federal court. The assertion of the taxpayer forms a stand upon the unjustification in politics and economic matters. This case holds the facts that the Arizona taxpayers opposed the constitution that allowed for the tuition tax credit in the federal district court system (Shapiro, 2011). This was because it acted as a violator of the establishment clause of the first amendment. The program alleged of being corrupt, especially in funneling money to fund the private religious schools. The district court had to dismiss case it was during the time of appealing that the appeal court in the U.S inverted case. The legal issues held by case was about the state not holding the right to oppose a state tax credit- having an argument that the credit was against the subsidizes religious schools to violate the establishment clause just for the reason of being taxed. In that case, the respondents suit does not lie in the narrow exception to law against the taxpayer having a stand in the established flast versus Cohen, supra. The federal taxpayers had afirm stand to criticize the federal statute issuing a common treasury funding in assisting and boosting the inter alia the purchase of the religious school textbooks (Shapiro, 2011). There were to be a firm stand under the flast taxpayers that it was a must to have a link that was logic between the plaintiffs taxpayers status and the legislative enactment that was attacked, a nexus between the taxpayer and the precise nature and nurture of the constitution infringement The court had to take a stand in the federal jurisdiction. The suit was that the plaintiff must have a stand by sufficiently alleging an injury coming from the defendants against the rule of law. The courts take was that, taxpayer cannot oppose the excessive and illegal spending by the state (Shapiro, 2011). The Supreme Court identified the minimal exception to the rule in the flast versus cohen. The opinion according to Justice Kennedy was that the Arizona was to provide credits of the tax as a donation to the religious school. The Arizona Supreme Court rejected the clause establishment on the benefit of the intervention from the federal judiciary. The court was to outline that parties in search of relief must indicate their stand under the article 111 of the constitution, and the parties should be determined in the merits in the federal court. Some plaintiffs might practically show a stand based on the unswerving damage of what is considered religion establishment like a mandatory prayer in the public school classroom (Shapiro, 2011). In the majority opinions, Justice Kennedy delivered the opinion that the court held a vote of about five that the taxpayers did not have enough of Artivle111 standing to challenge the proposed scheduled program. In addition, since there was the lack of article 111, the court could not reach to appoint of questioning whether the program was to violate the establishment of the clause or not. It was after this opinion that other justices seconded his opinion. Among them were; chief Justice Roberts, Justice Scalia, Thomas, Alito, Ginsburg and Stomayor. The opinion by the justice Robert was considered more controversial and original. The opinion was that case had to be heard by the four justices before it could be presented to the courts docket, as this strengthened the function of the Supreme Courts in interpreting and applying American law. At the end, it was to reshape the court (Shapiro, 2011). The general significance of this particular case is that, despite the agreement that the Supreme Court decisions are not fungible, it is not obvious that there is a significant satisfaction to the judicial behavior has to be provided. When it comes to politics, legality and historical significance are distinguished and politically important variables based on the factor analyzing case choices of at least 15 authorities. The techniques used to find out the significant cases are analyzed critically and evaluated by having a proper comparison of their results to the list of political importance. The descriptive virtue of the new measure is found in the proportion of the significant cases by term. They also recognize opinions and their prediction, which are replica in the revision of the models and propositions analyzing the real judicial behavior. In conclusion, I support the Supreme Courts ruling .this is because the ruling favors the majority. From the opinions given, the majority accepts the ruling. The ruling of the Supreme Court is of great advantage as it protects and promotes the rights of the majority. People have their freedom and there is no violation of the rights and freedom of the citizens. 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How Colombias Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth

How Colombias Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth Introduction Business environment refers to conditions that are not controllable but are encountered in the process of undertaking a business activity. Such conditions are determined by factors that range from politics, territorial economies and regulations. Foreign investment in a country, on the other hand, refers to the capital that is brought into a country from another country with the aim of acquiring control of business enterprises in the recipient country.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on How Colombia’s Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Economic growth is the increase in a country’s productivity level which is indicated in the country’s increased gross domestic product. Economic growth is the primary increase in produced goods and services in a country. This paper seeks to discuss the relation ship between the business environment in Colombia and the foreign investments and economic growth. The paper will look at the improved business environment in relation to the economic changes that have resulted from such changes. History of Colombia’s economy The history of Colombia’s economy is characterized by features that had negative impacts on the economy. Events such as political instability and illegal businesses were some of the factors that hindered economic growth in Colombia. Political instability in the country can be traced to the middle of the twentieth century after the assassination of the country’s president in the year 1948. This sparked a lot of violence in the country thereby disrupting activities including economic activities. The country was then majorly under military government following a coup in the year 1953 until a movement called â€Å"the national front† assumed power in the year 1958 (Infoplease 1). It was after the end of the movement’s rule in the year 1974 that Colombia started recovering from its economic recession that was a result of political stability. Illegal businesses that involved drugs and crude weapons however picked its roots after the 1970s to again pose new threats to the country’s economic growth. Rebel groups also established centers in many parts of the country lead enhancing violence thereby undermining economic growth. Such instabilities specifically discouraged foreign investments in the country (Infoplease 1). Improved business environment Some of the significant reforms that were undertaken by the country were done in the year 1996. Reforms such as â€Å"Colombia’s market-opening measures, its implementation of the Uruguay round commitments and its six year effort at sound macroeconomic management† (world Trade 1) were some of the features that contributed to the shift that was realized in the country’s economic growth (world Trade 1). These moves actually linked the country’s economy to the international market thereby diversifying the country’s trade to being in line with globalized aspect of economics. The results of these moves saw the liberalization of the Colombian market system leading to â€Å"lower tariffs, fewer non tariffs measures and a number of market access commitments in professional and financial services† (world Trade 1). Reduction or total elimination of tariffs in an economy has a direct impact of facilitating international trade together with its resulting benefits.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More When tariffs are reduced, for example, the cost of importation or exportation of commodities across a country’s boundaries is reduced. Consequently, raw materials are easily accessed from their cheap sources and finished products are as well easily sol d at any market that can yield the maximum profits to producers. The overall result is that producers will be more willing to operate in a territory where trade limitations are minimized. The steps that were taken to reduce tariffs, therefore, had the potential to positively influence the country’s economic growth. The 1990 policy review specifically improved the level of the country’s participation in international trade (world Trade 1). The reform also led to the enactment of a new constitution by the country that provided further reforms that were favorable to business. Another review was also undertaken in the country in the year 1993 with special interest in strengthening small scale domestic producers in the country. Steps that included, â€Å"subsidized loans, debt recovery or support, price support and stabilization mechanisms, marketing arrangements and modernization subsidies† (world Trade 1) were affected. These moves were specifically aimed at motiva ting Colombians to join the private sector in contributing to the country’s economy. A reform in Colombia’s trade policy that was undertaken in the year 1990 was significantly felt in the country’s economy. Following the reforms, an almost steady growth has since been reported in the country. Such growths have also been reflected on the inflation in the country that realized a reducing effect after the year 1990. It is reported that the country’s inflation rate reduced from over thirty percent in the year 1990 to below twenty percent in a span of five years (world Trade 1). Though the reform process which started in the year 1990 was meant to create a favorable environment for commercial activities, it was not primarily based on making economic policies in the country. One of the steps that were identified to be necessary in facilitating business was the enhancement of security and political stability that was still challenged by the presence of rebel gro ups and other groups that dealt in drugs. A sufficient economic base was being sought to ensure the country’s economic stability by reforming structures that were identified to be supportive to a business environment.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on How Colombia’s Improved Business Environment has Led to Increased Foreign Investment and Economic Growth specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This was particularly because the country had survived economic crises not because it had a strong economic basis but just because it was able to avoid economic strains. Political reforms that included the steps of enacting a new constitution was thus part of the trade reform process. A solution was therefore to be sought by curbing the problem of rebel groups that had been a burden to security in some parts of the country (Aviles 3). As part of the reform agenda in the Colombian economic environment, the reform process in the year 1990 as was undertaken by the government also included privatization of some sectors in the economy. Service proving sectors such as the â€Å"banking and telecommunications† were for example privatized (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 42). Such privatization was meant to bring the competitiveness in the industries for better service provision as compared to the governments’ provisions which are normally based on ensuring service provision. Such efficient provision of services that are supportive of business activities was therefore a positive contribution to the business environment. Following the authority that was granted to the then Colombian president, Gaviria, over economic reforms, the president instituted a lot of changes in economic policies that ranged from international trade policies to domestic policies. Apart from measures to reduce tariffs that were imposed on international trade activities, the president also reduced non tariff barriers t o international trade. Other economic reforms that were instituted at the time included â€Å"reduction and rationalization of reserve requirements, freeing of most interest rates, abolition of exchange controls, reform on labor legislation, relaxation of control over foreign direct investment† (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 42). All these measures liberated the ground for conducting business by reducing governmental control measures that restricted business operations. Reducing the level of control over foreign direct investments, for example, had the potential of increasing the inflow of investment capital into the country which in turn would be translated into the country’s increased productivity level. Other measures such as reduced control over sectors of the economy such as financial sector also provided the opportunity for a free market, in such sectors, that was then only dependent on the market forces of demand and supply. With these direct economic reforms, the country expected to increase its level of importation, its technological knowhow as well as operational efficiencies (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 42).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Though with subsequent side effects, the country succeeded in increasing its level of exports at the international market. Immediate increase in foreign direct investment was also realized following liberalization of interest rates. As a result of capital flow into the country, wage rates were triggered to rise thus increasing the incomes of individuals who found employment opportunities (Holmes, Pineres and Curtin 45). According to Edwards, the move to stabilize the country’s economy involved massive retrenchment by the Colombian government. As part of the reform agenda, reduction of government’s expenditure was a necessity in the realization of this stability. As a result, the inflation rate in the country was significantly reduced at the expense of increased unemployment rate. However, the business environment was enhanced as a result of the economic stability that was attained. The country has since then depended on the reforms that were made in the country in the period between the year 1990, 1993 and 1996. No further significant reforms have been made by subsequent governments (Edwards 84). Following the reforms that were instituted, modalities and formalities of processes involved in starting and running a business in Colombia have been made easier. Processes of obtaining formal necessities as well as undertakings of business processes have been simplified in terms of the short time durations that are taken. Most of applications only take one day to be processed by relevant bodies (Doing Business 1). The reforms that were taken by Colombia government have enlisted the country as one of the best in terms of investor protection. Rating that relates to investor confidence has also favored the country with indications that investors can easily put their long term investment capital in the country without much worries over risk factors. Consequently, foreign direct investment in the country has, for example, greatly increased to about four time s its level in the year 2003. The changes that were undertaken by the country in the name of reform policies therefore had positive impacts in improving the country’s economic environment in terms of business activities. This as a result reflects increased productivity levels and a potentially attractive environment for foreign investment (Proexport 1). Foreign direct investments and economic growth in Colombia As Colombia underwent political, legal and economic reforms in the early years of 1990s, a lot of changes were realized in the country’s operational systems. Economic issues that were deemed to be critical to the country were, for example, included in the country’s constitution that was enacted during that time period. One of the provisions of the enacted constitution stipulated that â€Å"the government will promote the internationalization of the economy and the economic, social, and political integration with Latin America and the Caribbean† (Go mez 13). The internationalization of the economy required the removal of barriers to forms of international trade that restricted foreign investors to the country’s market. The government was thus able to undertake measures of enhancing foreign investments and trade. Regional integration of the country with its neighbors was also a step to promoting good relations that could then be reflected in economic relations in countries that traded with Colombia. The next constitutional provision was that â€Å"foreigners have the same civil rights as nationals† (Gomez 13); this established a leveled ground under which everyone would be treated. The country then totally abolished regulations that were put to govern foreign direct investments into the country (Gomez 13). Following the measure to promote foreign direct investment in the country, investors yielded to the incentives and consequently resources were directed into Colombia. Significant increase in the level of foreign direct investment has been reported in the country over the past years with a direct proportionality being realized with respect to gross domestic product. Such investments have increased the country’s productivity level. The Colombian economy has in the past been registering improvements with an increasing trend in per capita income in general consideration of the country’s economy. Contrary to the condition prior to the 1990 reforms when foreign investment was majorly felt in the mining industry, diversification has been implemented occurred and foreign investment is currently significantly experienced in a variety of sectors that include â€Å"manufacture, finance service, electricity, and telecommunications sectors† (Melo 6). Prior to the liberalization, about sixty three percent of the country’s foreign direct investment was directed to the mining industry with the remaining percentage being shared among other industries. Currently, finance and manuf acturing sectors commands forty one percent of the country’s foreign direct investment (Melo 6). Change in direct investment in Colombia It is important to note that the changes were not with respect to fixed foreign investment but an increase in investments in other sectors of the economy. The overall impact of the liberalization was therefore increased participation in the sectors of the Colombian economy that induced efficiencies in productivity thus contributing to the country’s increased productivity level (Melo 6). The increasing trend of foreign direct investment in Colombia has continued to grow since then. A comparison between data in the year 2000 and the year 2008 for example indicated an increasing trend. Stock value of foreign direct investment was for instance sixty seven billion dollars in 2008 and grew to seventy four in the year 2009 reflecting the increasing trend that has over the past been realized (Betancourt 1). Conclusion Columbia was faced with a history of political and economic instability. It however struggled to establish its political stability in the 1980s. Economic environment of the country was left behind as the world moved to a globalized market system. Economic transformation was then undertaken in the country during the 1991 reform process that liberalized the country’s market creating a favorable business environment. As a result, direct foreign investments with corresponding economic growth have been realized in the country. Aviles, William. Global Capitalism, Democracy, and Civil-Military Relations in Colombia. New York, NY: SUNY Press. Print. Betancourt, Miguel. Inward FDI in Colombia and its policy context. Vale Columbia Center, 2011. Web. vcc.columbia.edu/files/vale/documents/Colombia_IFDI_updated_Nov_10_2010_final.pdf Doing Business. Ease of doing business in Colombia. Doing Business, 2011. Web. doingbusiness.org/data/exploreeconomies/colombia#starting-a-business Edwards, Sebastian. Colombia. Par is, France: OECD Publishing, 2011. Print. Gomez, Julian. Foreign direct investment in Colombia. Georgian, 2011. Web. http://digitalcommons.law.uga.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1017context=stu_llmsei-redir=1#search=%22trend+in+foreign+investments+in+colombia%22 Holmes, Jennifer., Pineres, Sheila and Curtin, Kevin. Guns, drugs, and development in Colombia. Texas, TX: University of Texas Press, 2008. Print. Infoplease. History. Encyclopedia- Colombia, 2011. Web. infoplease.com/ce6/world/A0857443.html Proexport. Improved business environment. Proexport Colombia, 2011. Web. investincolombia.com.co/why-colombia/improved-business-environment.html World Trade. Colombia: September 1996. Trade policy reviews, 2011. Web. wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp39_e.htm