Caged bird essays

Caged bird essays Why would the autobiography of one of the most influential female writers of our time end up on a list of the most frequently challenged books? In her novel I know why The Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou Discribes, in detail, some of the harshest realities of life. Including racism and segregation, the rape of a child, teen sexuality, abusive family situations, and teen pregnancy. Many parents feel it isn't appropriate for their children to be assigned Angelous book to read because they dont think their kids are ready to be exposed to such harsh things. Although Maya uses sometimes overly graphic writing, the struggles she depicts through provided her with the will to become who she is today and can provide the reader with a better understanding of the world they live in. The main reason parents disagree with Ancelcus book being taught in their childrens schools is because of the graphic descriptions of many the harsh realities that accrued in her life. But thats exactly why it should be taught. Most of the time when kids learn about real world situations like rape and racism they learn through statistics and history text book explanations. Maya presents her experiences in such a way that you feel that you too have been through them. For example: Very early on in her life Maya was molested and then raped by her mothers boyfriend. She lets you in on her thoughts and tells how a horrible thing like rape feels on a young body by saying things like Then there was the pain. A breaking and entering when ever the senses are torn apart (pg.65). I think that a teen or pre-teen reading this male or female will feel almost instantly sympathetic towards Maya and people who have been in her situation. Either that or this would be too much for some kids t o handle specially sheltered kids who are regularly exposed to unpleasant things. But the thing ...

Mixed Cropping Agriculture Technique

Mixed Cropping Agriculture Technique Mixed cropping, also known as polyculture, inter-cropping, or co-cultivation, is a type of agriculture that involves planting two or more plants simultaneously in the same field, interdigitating the crops so that they grow together. In general, the theory is that planting multiple crops at once saves space since crops in the same field might ripen at different seasons, and provides a wealth of environmental benefits. Documented benefits of mixed cropping include the balance of input and outgo of soil nutrients, the suppression of weeds and insect pests, the resistance of climate extremes (wet, dry, hot, cold), the suppression of plant diseases, the increase in overall productivity, and the management of scarce resources (land) to the fullest degree. Mixed Cropping in Prehistory Planting enormous fields with single crops is called monocultural agriculture, and it is a recent invention of the industrial agricultural complex. Most agricultural field systems of the past involved some form of mixed cropping, although unambiguous archaeological evidence of this is difficult to come by. Even if botanical evidence of the plant residues (such as starches or phytoliths) of multiple crops is discovered within an ancient field, it has proven difficult to differentiate between the results of mixed cropping and rotation cropping. Both methods are believed to have been used in the past. The primary reason for prehistoric multi-cropping probably had more to do with the needs of the farmers family, rather than any recognition that mixed cropping was a good idea. It is possible that certain plants adapted to multi-cropping over time, as a result of the domestication process. Classic Mixed Cropping: Three Sisters The classic example of mixed cropping is that of the American three sisters:  maize, beans, and cucurbits (squash and pumpkins). The three sisters were domesticated at different times but eventually were combined together to form an important component of Native American agriculture and cuisine. The mixed cropping of the three sisters is historically documented by the Seneca and Iroquois tribes in the US northeast and probably began sometime after 1000 C.E. The method consists of planting all three seeds in the same hole. As they grow, the maize provides a stalk for the beans to climb on, the beans are nutrient-rich to offset that taken out by the maize, and the squash grows low to the ground to keep weeds down and keep water from evaporating from the soil in the heat. Modern Mixed Cropping Agronomists studying mixed crops have had mixed results determining if yield differences can be achieved with mixed versus monoculture crops. For example, a combination wheat and chickpeas might work in one part of the world, but it might not work in another. But, overall it appears that measurably good effects result  when the right combination of crops are cropped together. Mixed cropping is best suited for small-scale farming where harvesting is by hand. It has been used to improve income and food production for small farmers and lessen the likelihood of total crop failure- even if one of the crops fail, the same field might still produce other crop successes. Mixed cropping also requires fewer nutrient inputs such as fertilizers, pruning, pest control, and irrigation than does monoculture farming. Benefits There seems to be no doubt that the practice provides a rich biodiverse environment, fostering habitat and species richness for animals and insects such as butterflies and bees. Some evidence suggests that polycultural fields do produce high yields compared to monocultural fields in certain situations, and almost always increase biomass richness over time. Polyculture in forests, heathlands, grasslands, and marshes has been particularly important for the regrowth of biodiversity in Europe. A recent study (Pech-Hoil and colleagues) was conducted on the tropical American perennial achiote (Bixa orellana), a rapidly growing tree that has a high carotenoid content, and a food dye and spice in small farming cultures in Mexico. The experiment looked at achiote as it is grown in different agronomic systems- intercropped polyculture, backyard cultivation including poultry farming, and a wide range of plants, and monoculture. Achiote adapted its mating system depending on which type of system it was planted in, specifically the amount of outcrossing that is seen. Further research is required to identify the forces at work. Sources: Cardoso EJBN, Nogueira MA, and Ferraz SMG. 2007. Biological N2 fixation and mineral N in common bean–maize intercropping or sole cropping in southeastern Brazil. Experimental Agriculture 43(03):319-330. Daellenbach GC, Kerridge PC, Wolfe MS, Frossard E, and Finckh MR. 2005. Plant productivity in cassava-based mixed cropping systems in Colombian hillside farms. Agriculture, Ecosystems Environment 105(4):595-614. Pech-Hoil R, Ferrer MM, Aguilar-Espinosa M, Valdez-Ojeda R, Garza-Caligaris LE, and Rivera-Madrid R. 2017. Variation in the mating system of Bixa orellana L. (achiote) under three different agronomic systems. Scientia Horticulturae 223(Supplement C):31-37. Picasso VD, Brummer EC, Liebman M, Dixon PM, and Wilsey BJ. 2008. Crop Species Diversity Affects Productivity and Weed Suppression in Perennial Polycultures under Two Management Strategies. Crop Science 48(1):331-342. Plieninger T, Hà ¶chtl F, and Spek T. 2006. Traditional land-use and nature conservation in European rural landscapes. Environmental Science Policy 9(4):317-321.

Paraphrasing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 22

Paraphrasing - Essay Example One needs to drink adequate amount of water and have enough rest to overcome heat effects on the body. The WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) system is used to measure heat and its index takes into consideration all environmental factors like humidity, radiant heat and air heat. WBGT can be ascertained through direct and indirect sunlight exposure. WBGT is made up of dry, wet and black globe thermometers. Dry bulb thermometer records air temperature (Tdb). Natural wet bulb thermometer records evaporative temperature (Tnwb) while black globe thermometer records radiant temperature (Tg). The analog and the digital instruments did not exhibit a significant variation in temperature. Both gadgets are designed to measure air temperature. Both instruments effectively record air temperature, but, they will record different measurements owing to the fact that one records temperature readings with decimals unlike the other. The experiment utilized a heater to assess the heating condition in for ten minutes. When the heater was used, we observed that the temperature of the two instruments increased. Air circulation was not measured, but the absence of a fan means there was limited error possibility in our data. Like any other experiment, this experiment is not free of human and gadget errors. Probable sources of error in this experiment include malfunctioning of instruments, thermometer failure on analog instrument and wrong data entry among others. In summary, this experiment is crucial for safety managers who can implement it in work environments with temperature fluctuati on to ensure safe working environment for

If drugs were legalized, would law enforcement agencies benefit Essay

If drugs were legalized, would law enforcement agencies benefit - Essay Example was 1.3% in 1914, when drug availability restrictions were much more lax. In spite of the strict regulations and the vast amounts of money spent to prevent the free availability of substances that are misused this percentage of drug addiction has remained the same at the turn of the new millennium (Kane, 2000). The second key argument is more important from the perspective of law enforcement. According to this argument a lot of time, effort and money of law enforcement are currently wasted on cracking down on drugs, which could be better utilized on their other functions of crime prevention and crime detection to enable the citizens to live in a more peaceful environment. In essence this argument is for increasing the focus on crime prevention of law enforcement, instead if distracting it with the additional function of curbing the availability and misuse of drugs (Levinson, 2002). Even if the point on the law enforcement agencies efforts to curb availability and misuse of drugs is conceded that does not mean that legalizing drugs would allow the law enforcement agencies to concentrate more effectively on reducing crime and making the country more for safe for its inhabitants. This is because legalizing drugs will make them more freely available and increase the misuse of these drugs, leading to the consequences of increased misuse of drugs. One of the important outcomes of this increased misuse of drugs will be the increase in crimes particularly violent crimes. The increase in crime rates that it will in all probability overwhelm the enforcement agencies and instead of increased efficiency of crime fighting by the enforcement agencies, there will be a deterioration in their ability to cope with the increased number of crimes and the severity of these crimes. The final consequence would be reduced safety of the population of the country and more criticism of the law enforcement agencies (Wilson, 2002). This argument of increased

Special Education Inclusion Essay Example for Free

Special Education Inclusion Essay Special Education Inclusion addresses the controversy of inclusion in education. It argues that inclusions controversy stems from its relation to educational and social values in addition to individual worth. Stout states the important questions that should always be asked when discussing inclusion. She gives us some arguments from advocates on both sides of the issue and everyone in between. She recognizes that inclusion has no simple answers. She merely intends to overview the concepts of inclusion and offers some recommendations to ensure the needs of all students are met. Her overview begins with definitions of common vocabulary, discusses laws governing inclusion, court decisions that have governed placement under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and ends with a conclusion, research, and discussion. Finally, she gives recommendations for inclusion success. When discussing inclusion address three important question: â€Å"Do we value all students equally? , What do we mean by ‘inclusion’? , and Are there some children for whom ‘inclusion’ is inappropriate? † The wide range of answers to these questions makes inclusion so debatable. This range places advocates for and against inclusion on a wide spectrum of believe. James Kauffman, University of Virginia, opposes of inclusion. He defines inclusionais â€Å"a policy driven by an unrealistic expectation that money will be saved. † He feels that â€Å"trying to force all students into the inclusion mold is just as coercive and discriminatory. † No one should be forced into special education, residential institutions, or inclusion. I do agree that not all children can cope with inclusion. Proponents to inclusion believe all students belong in a regular classroom. They argue that each student will have their needs met by a â€Å"good† teacher. The nature of those needs shouldn’t be a factor. In between proponents and opponents to inclusion is a large group of confused parents and educators. They are unsure of the legality of inclusion and if it’s best for the students. The school districts obligation to the children remains unclear to them. The overview tries to clear this up. Common vocabulary makes the concept of inclusion is clear. Mainstreaming means the placement of special education students in at least on â€Å"regular† education class. Inclusion includes a commitment to support the student in â€Å"regular’ education classrooms as long as the student benefits from it. Full inclusion means a regular classroom all the time regardless of the severity of the handicap. These definitions lead to distinction between the conceptual or philosophical ideas to mainstreaming and inclusion. Supporters of mainstreaming believe disabilities have to earn their way into the regular education classrooms from the special education classroom. On the other hand, supporters of inclusion believe all students belong in the regular education classroom unless it is impossible to provide services there. After reading these definitions it made things clearer to me. I would be more in favor of mainstreaming than inclusion. The overview addresses the laws of inclusion. Tow federal laws oversee the disabilities in students, neither law requires inclusion. IDEA required â€Å"the least restrictive environment† for educating students with disabilities which begins in a regular education classroom. However, IDEA recognizes that all students can not be placed in regular education classrooms. It says placement must be determined in an IEP (individual Education Plan by a team and not solely by a school’s convenience or a parent’s desire. The second law, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 states schools must educated students with disabilities and those without disabilities together as appropriate because they are recipients of federal funds. Too much of what is expected from school districts is left to interpretation by the district and parents. Even after IDEA’s amendments many questions remain unanswered. To what extent must a school go to provide inclusion? How important is the academic achievement? What rights do students without disabilities have? Some cases that have generated guidelines on inclusion include: Greer vs. Rome City School District – won by the parents because the district was refusing services base on added costs which is not allowed. Sacramento City Unified School District vs. Holland – ruled in favor of the parent for full time regular education because the district must also consider non-academic benefits. Oberti vs. Board of Education of the Borough of Clementon School District – the parents received a ruling in their favor of a more inclusive education because of educational benefits. Poolaw vs. Parker Unified School District – the district won this case because of the minimal education benefits in regular education placement vs. residential placement. School District of Wisconsin Dells vs. Z. S. – the district won this fight for home education for an autistic student with a history of violence and destruction. Stout found no comparative information available in her research for the impact of inclusive vs.non-inclusive settings on academic gains, graduation rates, or work. This information has proponents to inclusion claiming segregation is detrimental. Because of the range of statistics provided on inclusion Stout has concluded that the concern should â€Å"be based on the needs of the child, her/his peers, and the system’s ability to meet those needs. † I agree that every child needs to be evaluated case by case. Stout ends the paper with recommendations for inclusion. Before implementing inclusion two things need to occur. First, when considering an inclusive approach the entire school community should be included. Second, these changes need to be research based. With this mind some recommendations include: †¢Use Well-developed IEP’s should guide a child’s placement †¢Include teachers and support staff must be included in decision making †¢Make available staff development must be available †¢Develop a process to allow teachers to challenge and IEP †¢Involve parents and students in the process of making decisions †¢Consider team teaching, co-teaching, and other programs Stout concludes that for inclusion to be effective, through planning is critical. Planning must involve special education, regular education, and all involved in the restructuring of a school’s entire program for â€Å"real inclusion. † Constant assessment and reflection are absolutely necessary. Currently education classroom teachers seem unprepared and understaffed to be able to handle inclusion in their classroom. Stout, K. S. (2007, March 15). Wisconsin Education Association Council. Retrieved September 29, 2011, from Resource Pages on Issues: http://www. weac. org/Issues_Advocacy/Resource_Pages_On_Issues_One/Special_Education/special_education_inclusion. aspx.

What is an Education :: Teching Learning Schooling Papers

What is an Education There appears to be some writing on the note ... What is an Education How was school today, what did you learn in school today, or what did you do in school today? Those seem to be questions every parent asks their child upon their return from a day at school. Most kids answer fine, ok, or nothing. Occasionally the child will be excited about something and actually tell their parent a story. Sometimes it will involve an incident at lunch where a friend threw their bologna sandwich across the table and it hit someone else. Then there are those days where the kid tells how in class they poured vinegar onto some kind of powder and it fizzed like a volcano would. Parents should take note of something like this. This could be a sign at a young age that a child has an interest in chemistry or possibly geology. This could be useful later on down the road when the child is trying to decide which classes to take in high school. With an early expressed interest in a subject area the child may perform better in that area and that would help m ake him/her desirable to colleges. That may all be part of a bigger problem though, getting to college. There is a lot of emphasis put on college. Students are taught that they will go no where without a college education. The focus in high school isnt completing high school, its getting ready for college. When my parents were growing up, one could make it in the world without a college education. Many were expected to head off to work once they received their high school diploma. Some went on to college to get a college degree. College degrees werent necessary, but they were highly looked upon. Nowadays a Bachelor of Arts degree or Bachelor of Science degree in some subject seems to be the requirement and it is the Masters degree that is highly looked upon. With more and more people returning to educational institutions to earn their Masters degree, many students are finding that graduate school is becoming necessary to be able to compete in the job market. The Masters degree is soon on its way to becoming the requirement and the PHD will soon be what is highly looked upon. Every one is so focused on getting a good education, but no one can agree what an education is.

Drug Addiction

DRUG ADDICTION AND DRUG ABUSE A Research Paper presented to the faculty of Cabalum Western College Iloilo City In partial fulfillment In English II by: What is drug addiction? Drug addiction is a complex brain disease. It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences. What Is Drug Abuse? Dennie Ho I am an independent freelance writer and editor with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. I have worked professionally as an analyst in the government, higher education, and public relations industries.I have been freelance writing for over eight years, including two with Demand Studios. The effects derived from abusing drugs will differ depending on the type of drug, but the basic pattern of drug abuse is the same: a compelling urgency to acquire and use the desired chemical substance. With drug abuse comes drug addiction and, as the addiction grows stronger over time, the impulse to use the drug grows more powerful: powerful enough to alter relationships, destroy health, interfere with work schedules and disrupt normal activities. 1. Definition Drug abuse entails the excessive and/or repeated use of chemical substances (in any form) in order to achieve certain biochemical effects. Significance * The abuse of drugs is coupled with addiction, and obtaining and using the drug becomes increasingly more important than any other thing in life: friends, family, employment or even children. Types * Drug abuse involves chemical substances known as street- or illicit-drugs (illegal due to their potential for addiction), as well as prescription drugs that are acquired for pleasurable use rather than medical necessity.Consequences * The consequences of abusing drugs can be both physical and emotional, confounding the body's normal biochemical processes, making normal functions difficult to perform and impairing cognitive abilities–like judgmentâ€⠀œto dangerous levels. Effects * As described by the Mayo Clinic, stimulants increase blood pressure and metabolism resulting in powerful rushes of energy and difficulty sleeping. Depressants and barbiturates produce calming sensations and excessive relaxation by reducing blood pressure, heart rate and breathing to dangerously low levels. Potential Drug abuse over time chemically alters the brain's neurological functions, causing extreme discomfort and pain when it is deprived of the drug. The Difference Between Drug Addiction and Drug Abuse Dr. Howard Samuels The terms â€Å"drug abuse† and â€Å"drug addiction† are sometimes used interchangeably and incorrectly. Although drug abuse may lead to drug addiction, they are two completely different terms. Drug Abuse Drug abuse is the misuse of any substance, legal or illicit. Some drugs, such as prescription medications and alcohol, may be used in an appropriate way and not be considered abused.Taking prescription pills pr ecisely how prescribed or having a single glass of wine with dinner are examples of not abusive drugs. Drug abuse occurs with these substances when they are taken in excess. Also, use of any illegal drug may be considered drug abuse, as it is not supposed to be used at all. Many illicit drugs are vulnerable to be abused because of their psychologically and physically addictive properties. Drug Addiction Drug addiction develops from repeated drug abuse, and also is believed to have genetic factors.Addiction can be characterized by a complete overhaul of one's motivational factors, in which the individual strives only to get high. Generally, other motivational factors such as school, work, family life, daily activities, and self-care lose their importance, as the drug becomes the only way the addict can find any happiness or relief. Addiction is always psychologically based with some causing physical addiction as well by changing the chemistry of the brain. Although an addict may find temporary relief from using, their life usually is not pleasant around them.Although one who is abusing drugs may intentionally do so, an addict never wants to be an addict. As the drug is their only motivational factor, they cannot quit easily as nothing else gives them the same feeling they seek. Some form of treatment is often required to help addicts, whereas one abusing drugs may simply quit with their own willpower. All Addiction Articles * Drug Addiction * Meth * Methadone * Alcoholism * Ketamine * Cough Syrup * Valium * Dilaudid * Xanax * Suboxone * Sex * Drug Addiction Help * Oxycontin Statistics * How Drugs Can Become Addictive * Stages Intervention for Opiate Addiction * Drug Use in Prison * Athletes and Drug Abuse * Crystal Meth Rehab and Detox * Prescription Meds Post Surgery * Dangers of IV Drug Use * Heroin * Hydrocodone * Cocaine * Ecstacy * GHB * Inhalants * Demerol * Codeine * Ritalin * Adderall * Gambling * Drug Addiction Treatment * Drug Addiction vs. Drug Abuse * Drug Addiction Within the Family * Kids and Drugs * Vicodin * Defining Addiction * Olympic Doping * Current Events in War on Drugs * Alcohol Abuse Statistics * Love Addiction * Marijuana * Percocet * Substance * LSD * PCP * Spice Soma * Ambien * Morphine * Percodan * Nicotine * Cocaine Length in System * Drug Addiction Recovery Options * Genetic Aspect of Drug Addiction * Fact Sheet on Painkillers * Stigma * Malnutrition and Drug Use * Abstral: New Painkiller on the Market * Rich Kids Drug Use on the Rise * Agassi Crystal Meth Drug Admission * Bath Salt Addiction Causes of Drug Abuse Many people wonder about the causes of drug abuse. An underlying cause is the escape from emotional pain. Some people are physically predisposed to drug addition, whether emotional pain is present. 1. Emotional Issues The most prevalent cause of drug abuse stems from the addict's need to escape from emotional pain. Any sort of trauma can lead to drug abuse. Job Loss * An unexpected disruption, such a s job loss, can create a feeling of inadequacy and undermine a person's confidence, leading him to flee the pain through drug abuse. Marital Difficulty * Arguments and discord in the marriage can lead to drug abuse. Drugs can provide a release from tension in the family. Genetics * A drug abuser can be susceptible to addiction because of her genetic makeup. Once the drug abuser experiments with a substance, the body will crave more.Self-Medication * Self-medication can encompass all of the above issues for the drug abuser. He feels that he must relax, escape or mentally shut down through drug abuse. ————————————————- Causes of Drug Addiction Recognizing the causes of drug addiction can help prevent a person from becoming an addict. The motivators behind initial drug use or experimentation can lead to long-term use and becoming an addiction over time. ——â€⠀Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- Possible Causes of Drug Addiction Drug addiction can be found in many forms.A person can be addicted to alcohol, prescription drugs, inhalants or other street drugs (cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, etc. ). Understanding the reasons people are initially attracted to drug use can help stop future users from becoming addicts. Experimentation and curiosity are the first factors that draw many people into trying drugs. They want to feel that â€Å"high†, the sense of euphoria that comes with drug use. While this may lead to recreational use of drugs (using only in certain situations), it rarely leads to actual addiction unless other factors are present.However, some drugs (like heroin) have are more likely to cause addiction than others resulting in an addiction from simple experimentation alone. Prescription drugs can turn people into addicts because they have conditions in which they need to take drugs in order to get relief. People become hooked on prescription drugs when they take more than the recommended dosage, take it more frequently than recommended and continue using the drug after their initial medical condition clears up. Elite athletes are susceptible to using drugs. They use them for performance enhancing abilities.Steroids can make muscles bigger, while amphetamines help reduce or numb pain and allow people to play injured. Recently, major league baseball has come under fire for drug abuse. Although not as prominent, high school and college athletes have also been known to use drugs to enhance their performance. Others turn to drug use to cope with problems in their real lives. Whether it is past abuse (physical or sexual), school problems, work problems or relationship issues, drug use can help a person temporarily escape the realities of his/her life.Being around drugs and being exposed to addicts can also lead to drug addiction. If a family member or close friend uses or is addicted to drugs, it seems more acceptable for other members to engage in similar behavior. It becomes a tolerated activity. Peer pressure is also a factor in turning people into drug addicts. Contrary to popular belief, peer pressure can happen at any age. Adults fall prey to peer pressure to fit into new social classes, new workplaces and new neighborhoods. Teenagers fight peer pressure on everything from looks to alcohol to sex to drugs.In fact, using crystal meth is becoming a way for many teenage girls to fight the pressure that comes with needing to be thin and attractive. Teenagers can also fall prey to the rebellious attitude that they need to do anything their parents or those in authority say is bad. Easy accessibility to drugs and new, lower prices can also lead to drug addiction. Drugs can be found anywhere if a person simply asks. Street corners and alleyways are no longer the only place to find drugs. Schools, workplaces and even the family next door might be new places to find drugs.With more drugs being produced, the price has also been driven down. Drug addiction can also be caused by using drugs to mask other mental problems. For example, depressed people frequently use drugs to escape their sad feelings. Schizophrenics find that some street drugs can control their hallucinations. Denial and hiding the problem just lead to more problems in the long run. Four Stages of Drug Abuse Regina Paul Regina Paul has been a full-time freelance writer and author for three years. She has published over 500 articles online and 10 books. Her articles are published at Associated Content, e-How. om, and The Fun Times Guide. Her books are published with Amira Press, Eternal Press, and Leap of Faith Publishing. Introduction * Drug abuse is now seen as a disease, rather than just a moral problem as it was in the past. These days psychiatric professionals have identified four stages of drug abuse, enabling them to help individuals regardless of what stage they may be in. First Stage: Experimentation * The first stage of drug abuse can start out with using a drug voluntarily with the intent to erase a personal problem, or out of curiosity or because of peer pressure.For example, in the case of a personal problem, perhaps a man discovers his wife is cheating on him, and so he turns to drugs. When they appear to make him feel better, he moves from the first stage to the second stage of regular use. Second Stage: Regular Use * Someone that starts out experimenting with a drug and who likes the effects will often move on to regular use of the drug. In some cases, people will stop on their own even after they have begun regular use and they don't move beyond stage two, but others move to stage three and begin exhibiting risky behaviors. Third Stage: Risky Behavior The transition from stage two to stage three of drug abuse varies from person to person, and it can sometimes be difficult to determine if t he behavior a person is exhibiting is risky. In spite of this, if you believe the behavior of a loved one is risky, then you should tell your loved one. It is very easy to slip from stage three to stage four, which is dependence. A few examples of risky behavior are driving while high on drugs, doing target practice with a gun while high on drugs or jumping out of a second-story window under the influence of drugs. Fourth Stage: Dependence ; Addiction The characteristics of stage four are consistent drug abuse, always being high, not being able to function at work or at home, picking fights with loved ones, being incapable of rational thinking, engaging in risky behaviors such as taking drugs and driving or operating dangerous machinery while high, and legal problems that include receiving tickets for driving under the influence of drugs. If a person is in stage four they are addicted, and the problems mentioned above will continue to grow as the person's psyche is affected for the worse by continual drug use.Symptoms of Drug Abuse Drug, or substance, abuse is the habitual and exorbitant use of chemicals in order to produce a specific result or â€Å"high. † Abuse can involve illegal drugs or prescription drugs. Continued use can result in an addiction that ultimately affects addicts' work and home life as well as their health. 1. Physical Symptoms * Individuals may exhibit cycles of high energy or excessive sleep. Confusion or disorientation may be evident, along with slower speech, movement and reaction time.Changes in appetite with a sudden weight gain or weight loss may be an indicator of drug abuse. You may notice changes in the type of clothing worn, such as long-sleeved shirts to hide needle marks, or you may find paraphernalia, such as syringes, roach clips (used to hold a small marijuana cigarette) and pipes. Other physical signs include red and watery eyes, runny nose, chronic sinus problems or nosebleeds, persistent coughing, trembling, irreg ular heartbeat and serious dental troubles. 2. Mental and Emotional Symptoms *Drugs are abused for the purpose of achieving a â€Å"good† feeling. Signs of drug abuse can include cycles of unresponsiveness or being overly energetic and cheerful. Mood may change with heightened anger and irritability, and a lower threshold to become violent. Addicts may exhibit depression and apathy or paranoia and delusions. Other symptoms include hallucinations and silliness. 3. Behavioral Symptoms * You may notice a change in personality and attitude with drug abuse. Addicts may begin to socialize with different groups of friends and in different places.Hobbies, interests and activities may change, and family becomes less important. They may exhibit suspicious or secretive behavior, lack of motivation and decreased ability to pay attention. They may begin to steal money or objects that can be sold. 4. Specific Symptoms * Marijuana produces red or glassy eyes, unsuitable laughter and talking with subsequent sleepiness, loss of motivation and interest, and weight loss or gain. Depressants result in clumsiness, concentration difficulties, slurred speech, poor judgment, contracted pupils and sleepiness.The use of stimulants is evident by symptoms of euphoria, hyperactivity, anxiety, irritability, dilated pupils, dry mouth and nose, weight loss and excessive talking with subsequent depression or sleeping. Inhalants cause impaired vision and memory, watery eyes, nose or mouth rashes, nausea, headaches, drowsiness, appetite changes, irritability, anxiety and poor muscle control. The use of hallucinogens is exhibited by mood swings, paranoia, aggression, slurred speech, hallucinations, confusion and dilated pupils.Heroin may be suspected due to needle marks, sweating, coughing and sniffling, vomiting, twitching, contracted pupils, loss of appetite and sleeping at odd times. 5. Support * If you believe someone you know is abusing drugs, it is important to understand that the d ecision to stop is entirely up to him. You can offer him support, but he must have the desire to quit. You can find a treatment facility or support group to help him get started. It may also help to involve your minister or rabbi, your family physician or a therapist.The recovery is an ongoing process and an addict must work to overcome the withdrawal and to resist the drug cravings. What Are the Different Kinds of Drug Abuse? Someone with a drug abuse problem often displays general symptoms, regardless of the type of drug being abused: paranoia, confusion, overall attitude or mood adjustment, withdrawal from relationships or activities, abrupt changes in quality of work or school attendance. The specific signs of drug abuse, however, will differ, depending on the nature of the chemical. 1. Acute Alcohol Abuse The Handbook of Diseases describes the immediate signs of alcohol abuse as intoxication, loss of motor control (including walking and speech), alcoholic odor on breath or clot hing, loss of memory and blackouts. Chronic Alcohol Abuse * The chronic signs of alcohol abuse are more subtle. This abuse can be seen in someone who has including difficulty focusing, uncharacteristic behavior (passive or argumentative), dysfunctional interpersonal relationships, declining school or job performance, and fixated attention on alcohol, according to the Handbook of Diseases.Depressant Abuse * According to the American Council for Drug Education (ACDE), signs of the abuse of depressants (barbiturates—Amytal, Seconal; benzodiazepines—tranquilizers Xanax and Valium) include an intoxicated appearance (like alcohol, but without the noticeable smell). Signs of depressant abuse also include a lack of facial expressions or emotional responses, flaccid appearance, deflated or flat personality, and slurred or distorted speech. Stimulant Abuse The ACDE identifies the signs of stimulant abuse (amphetamine, methamphetamine, cocaine, Ritalin) as hyperactivity, extreme energy, fidgeting, twitching, nervousness, irritable or argumentative, lack of appetite and sleep deprivation. Physiological signs include dilated pupils, dry mouth and lips, runny nose or nose bleeds, and sinus problems. Hallucinogen Abuse * The ACDE describes the abuse of hallucinogenic drugs (PCP, LSD, Ketamine or Special K) as including distortion (self, others, time, the senses), hallucinations, confusion, altered mood or behavior and slurred or incoherent speech.Signs of hallucinogenic abuse also include physiological indications, such as extreme dilation of the pupils, warm skin, heavy perspiration and body odor. Narcotic Drug Abuse * Abuse of narcotics (opiate-containing drugs such as heroine, methadone, codeine, oxycontin and morphine) can be identified by lethargy, drowsiness, pupil constriction and slurred speech. Other clues include increased amount or frequency in taking pain medication and frequent trips to doctors and clinics for pain medication. Drug Addiction DRUG ADDICTION AND DRUG ABUSE A Research Paper presented to the faculty of Cabalum Western College Iloilo City In partial fulfillment In English II by: What is drug addiction? Drug addiction is a complex brain disease. It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences. What Is Drug Abuse? Dennie Ho I am an independent freelance writer and editor with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. I have worked professionally as an analyst in the government, higher education, and public relations industries.I have been freelance writing for over eight years, including two with Demand Studios. The effects derived from abusing drugs will differ depending on the type of drug, but the basic pattern of drug abuse is the same: a compelling urgency to acquire and use the desired chemical substance. With drug abuse comes drug addiction and, as the addiction grows stronger over time, the impulse to use the drug grows more powerful: powerful enough to alter relationships, destroy health, interfere with work schedules and disrupt normal activities. 1. Definition Drug abuse entails the excessive and/or repeated use of chemical substances (in any form) in order to achieve certain biochemical effects. Significance * The abuse of drugs is coupled with addiction, and obtaining and using the drug becomes increasingly more important than any other thing in life: friends, family, employment or even children. Types * Drug abuse involves chemical substances known as street- or illicit-drugs (illegal due to their potential for addiction), as well as prescription drugs that are acquired for pleasurable use rather than medical necessity.Consequences * The consequences of abusing drugs can be both physical and emotional, confounding the body's normal biochemical processes, making normal functions difficult to perform and impairing cognitive abilities–like judgmentâ€⠀œto dangerous levels. Effects * As described by the Mayo Clinic, stimulants increase blood pressure and metabolism resulting in powerful rushes of energy and difficulty sleeping. Depressants and barbiturates produce calming sensations and excessive relaxation by reducing blood pressure, heart rate and breathing to dangerously low levels. Potential Drug abuse over time chemically alters the brain's neurological functions, causing extreme discomfort and pain when it is deprived of the drug. The Difference Between Drug Addiction and Drug Abuse Dr. Howard Samuels The terms â€Å"drug abuse† and â€Å"drug addiction† are sometimes used interchangeably and incorrectly. Although drug abuse may lead to drug addiction, they are two completely different terms. Drug Abuse Drug abuse is the misuse of any substance, legal or illicit. Some drugs, such as prescription medications and alcohol, may be used in an appropriate way and not be considered abused.Taking prescription pills pr ecisely how prescribed or having a single glass of wine with dinner are examples of not abusive drugs. Drug abuse occurs with these substances when they are taken in excess. Also, use of any illegal drug may be considered drug abuse, as it is not supposed to be used at all. Many illicit drugs are vulnerable to be abused because of their psychologically and physically addictive properties. Drug Addiction Drug addiction develops from repeated drug abuse, and also is believed to have genetic factors.Addiction can be characterized by a complete overhaul of one's motivational factors, in which the individual strives only to get high. Generally, other motivational factors such as school, work, family life, daily activities, and self-care lose their importance, as the drug becomes the only way the addict can find any happiness or relief. Addiction is always psychologically based with some causing physical addiction as well by changing the chemistry of the brain. Although an addict may find temporary relief from using, their life usually is not pleasant around them.Although one who is abusing drugs may intentionally do so, an addict never wants to be an addict. As the drug is their only motivational factor, they cannot quit easily as nothing else gives them the same feeling they seek. Some form of treatment is often required to help addicts, whereas one abusing drugs may simply quit with their own willpower. All Addiction Articles * Drug Addiction * Meth * Methadone * Alcoholism * Ketamine * Cough Syrup * Valium * Dilaudid * Xanax * Suboxone * Sex * Drug Addiction Help * Oxycontin Statistics * How Drugs Can Become Addictive * Stages Intervention for Opiate Addiction * Drug Use in Prison * Athletes and Drug Abuse * Crystal Meth Rehab and Detox * Prescription Meds Post Surgery * Dangers of IV Drug Use * Heroin * Hydrocodone * Cocaine * Ecstacy * GHB * Inhalants * Demerol * Codeine * Ritalin * Adderall * Gambling * Drug Addiction Treatment * Drug Addiction vs. Drug Abuse * Drug Addiction Within the Family * Kids and Drugs * Vicodin * Defining Addiction * Olympic Doping * Current Events in War on Drugs * Alcohol Abuse Statistics * Love Addiction * Marijuana * Percocet * Substance * LSD * PCP * Spice Soma * Ambien * Morphine * Percodan * Nicotine * Cocaine Length in System * Drug Addiction Recovery Options * Genetic Aspect of Drug Addiction * Fact Sheet on Painkillers * Stigma * Malnutrition and Drug Use * Abstral: New Painkiller on the Market * Rich Kids Drug Use on the Rise * Agassi Crystal Meth Drug Admission * Bath Salt Addiction Causes of Drug Abuse Many people wonder about the causes of drug abuse. An underlying cause is the escape from emotional pain. Some people are physically predisposed to drug addition, whether emotional pain is present. 1. Emotional Issues The most prevalent cause of drug abuse stems from the addict's need to escape from emotional pain. Any sort of trauma can lead to drug abuse. Job Loss * An unexpected disruption, such a s job loss, can create a feeling of inadequacy and undermine a person's confidence, leading him to flee the pain through drug abuse. Marital Difficulty * Arguments and discord in the marriage can lead to drug abuse. Drugs can provide a release from tension in the family. Genetics * A drug abuser can be susceptible to addiction because of her genetic makeup. Once the drug abuser experiments with a substance, the body will crave more.Self-Medication * Self-medication can encompass all of the above issues for the drug abuser. He feels that he must relax, escape or mentally shut down through drug abuse. ————————————————- Causes of Drug Addiction Recognizing the causes of drug addiction can help prevent a person from becoming an addict. The motivators behind initial drug use or experimentation can lead to long-term use and becoming an addiction over time. ——â€⠀Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- Possible Causes of Drug Addiction Drug addiction can be found in many forms.A person can be addicted to alcohol, prescription drugs, inhalants or other street drugs (cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, etc. ). Understanding the reasons people are initially attracted to drug use can help stop future users from becoming addicts. Experimentation and curiosity are the first factors that draw many people into trying drugs. They want to feel that â€Å"high†, the sense of euphoria that comes with drug use. While this may lead to recreational use of drugs (using only in certain situations), it rarely leads to actual addiction unless other factors are present.However, some drugs (like heroin) have are more likely to cause addiction than others resulting in an addiction from simple experimentation alone. Prescription drugs can turn people into addicts because they have conditions in which they need to take drugs in order to get relief. People become hooked on prescription drugs when they take more than the recommended dosage, take it more frequently than recommended and continue using the drug after their initial medical condition clears up. Elite athletes are susceptible to using drugs. They use them for performance enhancing abilities.Steroids can make muscles bigger, while amphetamines help reduce or numb pain and allow people to play injured. Recently, major league baseball has come under fire for drug abuse. Although not as prominent, high school and college athletes have also been known to use drugs to enhance their performance. Others turn to drug use to cope with problems in their real lives. Whether it is past abuse (physical or sexual), school problems, work problems or relationship issues, drug use can help a person temporarily escape the realities of his/her life.Being around drugs and being exposed to addicts can also lead to drug addiction. If a family member or close friend uses or is addicted to drugs, it seems more acceptable for other members to engage in similar behavior. It becomes a tolerated activity. Peer pressure is also a factor in turning people into drug addicts. Contrary to popular belief, peer pressure can happen at any age. Adults fall prey to peer pressure to fit into new social classes, new workplaces and new neighborhoods. Teenagers fight peer pressure on everything from looks to alcohol to sex to drugs.In fact, using crystal meth is becoming a way for many teenage girls to fight the pressure that comes with needing to be thin and attractive. Teenagers can also fall prey to the rebellious attitude that they need to do anything their parents or those in authority say is bad. Easy accessibility to drugs and new, lower prices can also lead to drug addiction. Drugs can be found anywhere if a person simply asks. Street corners and alleyways are no longer the only place to find drugs. Schools, workplaces and even the family next door might be new places to find drugs.With more drugs being produced, the price has also been driven down. Drug addiction can also be caused by using drugs to mask other mental problems. For example, depressed people frequently use drugs to escape their sad feelings. Schizophrenics find that some street drugs can control their hallucinations. Denial and hiding the problem just lead to more problems in the long run. Four Stages of Drug Abuse Regina Paul Regina Paul has been a full-time freelance writer and author for three years. She has published over 500 articles online and 10 books. Her articles are published at Associated Content, e-How. om, and The Fun Times Guide. Her books are published with Amira Press, Eternal Press, and Leap of Faith Publishing. Introduction * Drug abuse is now seen as a disease, rather than just a moral problem as it was in the past. These days psychiatric professionals have identified four stages of drug abuse, enabling them to help individuals regardless of what stage they may be in. First Stage: Experimentation * The first stage of drug abuse can start out with using a drug voluntarily with the intent to erase a personal problem, or out of curiosity or because of peer pressure.For example, in the case of a personal problem, perhaps a man discovers his wife is cheating on him, and so he turns to drugs. When they appear to make him feel better, he moves from the first stage to the second stage of regular use. Second Stage: Regular Use * Someone that starts out experimenting with a drug and who likes the effects will often move on to regular use of the drug. In some cases, people will stop on their own even after they have begun regular use and they don't move beyond stage two, but others move to stage three and begin exhibiting risky behaviors. Third Stage: Risky Behavior The transition from stage two to stage three of drug abuse varies from person to person, and it can sometimes be difficult to determine if t he behavior a person is exhibiting is risky. In spite of this, if you believe the behavior of a loved one is risky, then you should tell your loved one. It is very easy to slip from stage three to stage four, which is dependence. A few examples of risky behavior are driving while high on drugs, doing target practice with a gun while high on drugs or jumping out of a second-story window under the influence of drugs. Fourth Stage: Dependence ; Addiction The characteristics of stage four are consistent drug abuse, always being high, not being able to function at work or at home, picking fights with loved ones, being incapable of rational thinking, engaging in risky behaviors such as taking drugs and driving or operating dangerous machinery while high, and legal problems that include receiving tickets for driving under the influence of drugs. If a person is in stage four they are addicted, and the problems mentioned above will continue to grow as the person's psyche is affected for the worse by continual drug use.Symptoms of Drug Abuse Drug, or substance, abuse is the habitual and exorbitant use of chemicals in order to produce a specific result or â€Å"high. † Abuse can involve illegal drugs or prescription drugs. Continued use can result in an addiction that ultimately affects addicts' work and home life as well as their health. 1. Physical Symptoms * Individuals may exhibit cycles of high energy or excessive sleep. Confusion or disorientation may be evident, along with slower speech, movement and reaction time.Changes in appetite with a sudden weight gain or weight loss may be an indicator of drug abuse. You may notice changes in the type of clothing worn, such as long-sleeved shirts to hide needle marks, or you may find paraphernalia, such as syringes, roach clips (used to hold a small marijuana cigarette) and pipes. Other physical signs include red and watery eyes, runny nose, chronic sinus problems or nosebleeds, persistent coughing, trembling, irreg ular heartbeat and serious dental troubles. 2. Mental and Emotional Symptoms *Drugs are abused for the purpose of achieving a â€Å"good† feeling. Signs of drug abuse can include cycles of unresponsiveness or being overly energetic and cheerful. Mood may change with heightened anger and irritability, and a lower threshold to become violent. Addicts may exhibit depression and apathy or paranoia and delusions. Other symptoms include hallucinations and silliness. 3. Behavioral Symptoms * You may notice a change in personality and attitude with drug abuse. Addicts may begin to socialize with different groups of friends and in different places.Hobbies, interests and activities may change, and family becomes less important. They may exhibit suspicious or secretive behavior, lack of motivation and decreased ability to pay attention. They may begin to steal money or objects that can be sold. 4. Specific Symptoms * Marijuana produces red or glassy eyes, unsuitable laughter and talking with subsequent sleepiness, loss of motivation and interest, and weight loss or gain. Depressants result in clumsiness, concentration difficulties, slurred speech, poor judgment, contracted pupils and sleepiness.The use of stimulants is evident by symptoms of euphoria, hyperactivity, anxiety, irritability, dilated pupils, dry mouth and nose, weight loss and excessive talking with subsequent depression or sleeping. Inhalants cause impaired vision and memory, watery eyes, nose or mouth rashes, nausea, headaches, drowsiness, appetite changes, irritability, anxiety and poor muscle control. The use of hallucinogens is exhibited by mood swings, paranoia, aggression, slurred speech, hallucinations, confusion and dilated pupils.Heroin may be suspected due to needle marks, sweating, coughing and sniffling, vomiting, twitching, contracted pupils, loss of appetite and sleeping at odd times. 5. Support * If you believe someone you know is abusing drugs, it is important to understand that the d ecision to stop is entirely up to him. You can offer him support, but he must have the desire to quit. You can find a treatment facility or support group to help him get started. It may also help to involve your minister or rabbi, your family physician or a therapist.The recovery is an ongoing process and an addict must work to overcome the withdrawal and to resist the drug cravings. What Are the Different Kinds of Drug Abuse? Someone with a drug abuse problem often displays general symptoms, regardless of the type of drug being abused: paranoia, confusion, overall attitude or mood adjustment, withdrawal from relationships or activities, abrupt changes in quality of work or school attendance. The specific signs of drug abuse, however, will differ, depending on the nature of the chemical. 1. Acute Alcohol Abuse The Handbook of Diseases describes the immediate signs of alcohol abuse as intoxication, loss of motor control (including walking and speech), alcoholic odor on breath or clot hing, loss of memory and blackouts. Chronic Alcohol Abuse * The chronic signs of alcohol abuse are more subtle. This abuse can be seen in someone who has including difficulty focusing, uncharacteristic behavior (passive or argumentative), dysfunctional interpersonal relationships, declining school or job performance, and fixated attention on alcohol, according to the Handbook of Diseases.Depressant Abuse * According to the American Council for Drug Education (ACDE), signs of the abuse of depressants (barbiturates—Amytal, Seconal; benzodiazepines—tranquilizers Xanax and Valium) include an intoxicated appearance (like alcohol, but without the noticeable smell). Signs of depressant abuse also include a lack of facial expressions or emotional responses, flaccid appearance, deflated or flat personality, and slurred or distorted speech. Stimulant Abuse The ACDE identifies the signs of stimulant abuse (amphetamine, methamphetamine, cocaine, Ritalin) as hyperactivity, extreme energy, fidgeting, twitching, nervousness, irritable or argumentative, lack of appetite and sleep deprivation. Physiological signs include dilated pupils, dry mouth and lips, runny nose or nose bleeds, and sinus problems. Hallucinogen Abuse * The ACDE describes the abuse of hallucinogenic drugs (PCP, LSD, Ketamine or Special K) as including distortion (self, others, time, the senses), hallucinations, confusion, altered mood or behavior and slurred or incoherent speech.Signs of hallucinogenic abuse also include physiological indications, such as extreme dilation of the pupils, warm skin, heavy perspiration and body odor. Narcotic Drug Abuse * Abuse of narcotics (opiate-containing drugs such as heroine, methadone, codeine, oxycontin and morphine) can be identified by lethargy, drowsiness, pupil constriction and slurred speech. Other clues include increased amount or frequency in taking pain medication and frequent trips to doctors and clinics for pain medication.

Blue Ocean Strategy Theory and Criticism

Outline the main components of Kim and Mauborgne’s (2004) concept of ‘Blue Ocean Strategy’. Critically assess the strengths and limitations of this approach to pursuing competitive advantage. Use relevant examples to support your argument. Introduction In the contemporary hostile business environment, innovation has become part of any company’s paramount strategy for continuous survival. Nokia, despite being the world’s largest mobile phone manufacturer having a large customer base, realized how lack of innovation to compete against rivals high end smart phones threatened its market presence. Kim and Mauborgne’s (2004) Blue Ocean Strategy is one of the major contributions in that context. Accordingly, this essay examines the Blue Ocean Strategy concept in the following order: First, the theory is explained with a real-life example. Secondly we look at few of its limitations. Thirdly, a critical appraisal of why this approach is better or worse off than other competing and value innovation theories is presented and finally the conclusion is drawn. Blue Ocean Strategy Theory According to Kim and Mauborgne (2004) the business universe consists of two distinct kinds of space: Red and Blue Oceans. Red Oceans  are the known market space where industry boundaries are defined and accepted, and the competitive rules of the game are known. Here companies try to outperform their rivals to grab a greater share of the market. As the market space gets crowded, prospects for profits and growth are reduced. Products become commodities, and cutthroat competition turns the ocean bloody and hence, the term  red ocean. Blue oceans, in contrast, refer to all the industries not in existence today—the unknown market space, untainted by competition. The essence of Blue Oceans is value innovation where demand is created rather than fought over. There is ample opportunity for rapid growth and profits. In Blue Ocean, competition is irrelevant because the rules of the game are waiting to be set. In contrast to Red Ocean which emphasizes either on cost or differentiation strategy, Blue Ocean suggests it is possible to attain both simultaneously. Pursuing this strategy is able to create high barriers to entry. There are two ways to create blue oceans: one is to give rise to completely new industries and the other is by changing the boundary of an existing industry. One of the classic examples of Blue Ocean strategy was Fords invention of Model T back in 1908. At that time the automobile industry in US was saturated (Red Ocean) with 500 small car companies manufacturing few expensive cars for the rich citizens only. Ford redefined the industry by the introduction of Model T car which was more robust, affordable and had less maintenance cost. With high demand and standardization in its product it was able to attain both differentiation and low cost. Thus instead of entering and competing on the same level Ford made the competition irrelevant by tapping into a whole new market or Blue Ocean within the existing industry. Limitations Some of the Blue Ocean Strategy limitation suggested by Bowman (2008) includes the cost associated with failed projects and innovations, the ambiguity in the industry definition and the methodology carried out for the theory. Other Strategy Theories and Approaches Competitive Strategy Forces Porter’s five forces viewing competition as the main issue that business out to be addressing is in direct contrast to Blue Ocean’s view of value innovation and creating new market. A recent research in the retail market by Barke (2010) suggests that Porter’s view of increased firm leading to lower profitability is in fact true but it does not go down alarmingly as suggested but rather a ‘pedestrian force’. Also Blue Ocean innovation in an existing market can last for 15 years before it to go down to a basic level (Barke, 2010). What that means is that the profit gains from innovation, in an existing market, are a lot more than previously supposed. Disruptive Innovation Kim and Mauborgne (2004) failed to identify the difficulty in adopting Blue Ocean strategy particularly for the established firms. Christensen and Overdorf (2004) spotted this issue in their ‘disruptive innovation’ model which bears similarity with Blue Ocean in that new markets can be created with the existing industry and ‘continual innovation’ is needed for survival. Broadly defining, it is a strategy which disturbs the trajectory f an industry it is heading to, instead of trying to change the whole industry and does so by targeting the so called non-consumers. Christensen argues that established firm’s strength in resources, process, and values culture can often lead to rigidity to change and adapt to threats or explore new markets. Easy jets incremental growth and rise in dominance against other airlines such as British Airways is a perfect example. British Airways tried to change its business model and copy Easy Jet’s low cost strategy but miserably failed due to its different value. Christensen and Overdorf (2000) highlight this issue about the ‘dangers of quickly imitating by established firms’ and instead urges new ‘organizational structure, acquisition’ means to tackle the issue. They further go on to say that small disruptive startups will always have an added advantage over established firms due to less stress in ‘managing resources’ and in CEO’s ‘quick intuitive decisions. ’ Their theory, thus, provide a whole new perspective in Blue Ocean Strategy model. Experience Innovation and Co-Creation of Value Prahalad (2004) argues that that today, customers want to be involved more and more in the production experience or become ‘co-creator’s’ instead of the ‘dominant logic’ of companies that decides which product to manufacture and sell as suggested by Blue Ocean strategy and other theories. According to him, this dominant logic fails to recognize threats, seize opportunities, growth and innovation. He suggests ‘value’ is created through experience of consuming the product rather than only measured by product, service or transaction (Prahalad, 2004: 173). This is what terms as ‘experience innovation’ that can be created through a paradigm known as ‘DART (Dialogue, Access and Choice, Risk Assessment and Transpercy). ’ Starbucks is a good example here – where people just don’t go to drink coffee but rather to experience of the coffee shop culture. Trends in Japanese Management While Blue Ocean Strategy emphasizes on finding a new market for competitive advantage, Clegg and Kono (2002) asserts that one of the rise of Japanese companies such as Hitachi and Toshiba was ‘developing strategic alliances and co operation with other companies’ (Clegg and Kono, 2002: 278). Further dissimilarity in Blue Ocean strategy includes Hamel and Prahalad (1989) ‘advantage of being a follower rather than a leader’ which enables companies to have a ‘strategic intent’ or a long term vision of winning and beating the biggest in the business such as Canon sought to beat ‘Xerox’ and ultimately matching global unit market share. Conclusion The competitive perspective suggests that companies should pay close attention to their existing markets when looking for opportunities for innovation; that competition is a much weaker force in terms of eroding the benefits from innovation. Disruptive innovation highlights the obstacles faced by firms in pursuing Blue Ocean but rightly urges firms to adopt this strategy for survival. With the current IT phenomena the experience innovation’s holistic view of measuring value through consumer is a new breadth of fresh air that should be included and be a part of Blue Ocean Strategy. Lastly, the trends in Japanese Management indicates that other successful strategy theories must also be considered alongside Blue Ocean as part of companies broader business plan to remain competitive.

The Reunification of Ancient Egypt under Mentuhotep II essays

The Reunification of Ancient Egypt under Mentuhotep II essays The second half of Pepy IIs ninety-four year reign was rather ineffective, as the forces that had been eroding the theoretical foundations of the Egyptian state became apparent. Since Egyptian kingship was based on the principal of divine kingship, a king whose economic power had been greatly weakened could no longer perform the role Egyptian doctrine had assigned him. The consequences of this for the whole of Egyptian society were serious; the ex officio system of remuneration no longer functioned satisfactorily and the fiscal system was probably on the verge of collapse. (Shaw pg.116) There is no one reason behind the decline and ultimate collapse of the Old Kingdom and unified Egypt. From tracking the direction and magnitude of the Nile, experts have determined that this period in Egyptian history suffered an extremely low amount of flooding. Agriculture along the Nile was dependant upon annual overflowing so rich topsoil from upstream could be deposited onto the parched farmland. When this failed, Egypts entire economic system failed with it. As there could be no real warning before this catastrophe, any preparations would have been useless, and as a result, Egypt suffered a terrible famine. As easy as it may have seemed for nature to shatter Egypt into many independent city-states called nomes, it would never have happened had not Egyptian kingship been so heavily linked to religion. How could anyone cope with their god completely forsaking them? It may be that Egypt didnt suffer from an irreversible economic crisis, but rather a spiritual crisis from which they could not recover. The reunification of Egypt didnt begin taking shape until the Middle Bronze Age. Two distinct empires arose from the ashes of the Old Kingdom. In Upper Egypt, there was Mentuhotep Is 11th Dynasty centered at Thebes, and in Lower Egypt, there was the great Herakleopolitan Empire which made up the 9th/10th Dynast...

6 Reasons You Should Seriously Consider Becoming a Nurse Practitioner

6 Reasons You Should Seriously Consider Becoming a Nurse Practitioner Ever thought about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners  are a combination of both nursing and medical care. These practitioners are able to help patients one step further  than a registered nurse. A nurse practitioner  can prescribe medicine, look at patients, diagnose illnesses, and provide treatments, similar to a physician. Here are 6 advantages of becoming a nurse practitioner.  Source [Ohio University]

Employee Reward (Executive Reward) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Employee Reward (Executive Reward) - Essay Example The executive compensation system helps in the improvement of the existing system that helps in accomplishment of goals and objectives. A well structured compensation system helps in the attraction of dynamic and talented pool of executives who can help the company in gaining competitive advantage over its competitors (Browning, 2012).An integrated approach of designing a reward structure helps in developing a system which is directly related to the growth of the company . Executive reward system in a company is the result of a high level interaction between the company executives and the director to maintain an acceptable return on the investment at all times. The executives expect some kind of salary based on daily or annual basis. It also includes employment contracts, portable retirement benefits and deferred compensation (Haygroup, 2013). The company management instead wishes that the executive achieve specific goals and also include developing capabilities (Edge and Davis, 2004 ). A well constructed EC system is only feasible with the development of a leadership framework in which the responsibilities, duties and capabilities are clearly identified and sorted out as per the executive level. In the leadership framework the level, responsibility, capability and results are clearly defined which helps in identification of the opportunities and the development of a strategy. The traditional executive compensation system was developed by Mirrlees and Holmstrom in the year 1975 and later it was modified by Holmstrom and Tirole in the year 1993 (Haygroup, 2013). This theory was developed to help in building an incentive scheme which focuses on trade-off risk sharing and incentive, reward consideration. The theory was also formulated keeping in mind whether the management would be able to pay back the invested amount or not. The author laid emphasis on the fact that stock prices not only reflected the fundamental value of the organization but also signified a shor t term speculative amount. The various constituents of the executive reward systems are as follows: Direct Pay Base Salary The entire executive system would include the annual based salary which would be replaced by the executive salary plans. As per the leadership framework the executive total rewards system would be as follows. Base Salary Annual Incentives and Perks Long Term Incentives Career Development Responsibilities Short Term Success Long Term Success The capability and short term success would be considered The executive salary planning would start as per the market pay data and the desired competitive range would be decided based on the competitive performance of the executives. It also includes the inputs and growth in individual responsibility and the high level performance for the individual (Armstrong, 2002). The salary plans are developed on the assumption of the consistent performance for the executive reward system. Annual Incentive The executive reward system, an nual incentive plan also forms an important part of the total reward and incentive system for the executives (Lepak, 2013). It helps in benchmarking the total work as per the quantitative and qualitative performance standards (Lepak, 2013). To ensure individual accountability the incentive system is designed in such a way that executives are able to accomplish the goals

International Human Rights law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

International Human Rights law - Essay Example The researcher states that international human rights law is actually the body of international law made to preserve and promote human rights and this law can be enforced at domestic, regional, and international level. This law was formed to protect human rights on many levels, so that if rights are abused, unnoticed or violated on domestic level, then the suffering parties would be able to seek justice or plead for enforcement of rights on regional and international level. International human rights law differs from other legislations in that it basically aims to regulate the relation between state authorities and common people for enforcing human rights in terms of daily life matters. Proponents of international human rights law claim that according to this legislation, it is the duty of the international community to respond to any such situation in which human rights get violated due to any reason and take a quick and effective action against such human rights abuse cases. It is commonly seen in the present age in many different parts of the world that no matter how many rights are abused by the oppressive parties, the international community fails again and again to take any proper action. This shows that though human rights are declared to be universal, yet state responsibility for their violations is limited by territoriality as well as by citizenship. A state only takes notice of human rights abuses if the violations occur inside its own territory and if the affected individual or party resides in that state. 3 Little or almost zero notice is taken of human rights abuses if the affected individual happens to be a citizen of another state. However, those in favor of this law suggest that there is an ever-growing impact of international human rights law on domestic legal systems all over the world which shows how effective this law is thought to be by domestic judges, prosecutors, and lawyers.4 The evolving legal situation suggests that even the daily wor k of those related to domestic legal systems in any way is seen to be heavily influenced by the international human rights law which would definitely not have been possible had this law actually lacked effectiveness.5 It is also claimed that this law has helped the states immensely in implementing and securing human rights obligations. This law also requires the relevant legal professions to carefully scrutinize the broad range of ways by which human rights can be enforced and protected from abuses. This law also fulfils the purpose of enforcing human rights globally to a great extent through international cooperation irrespective of sex, race, religion, or language.6 In short, this paper strives to present both sides of the picture and discuss that though international human rights law was developed to protect and promote different human rights and though it succeeds in doing so on certain levels, the approach taken for the protection of human rights lacks effectiveness on many lev els too. In order to validate discussion, the relevant research is presented with special reference to the rights of the child and the women’s rights. MAJOR HUMAN RIGHTS CONVENTIONS FOR GRANTING RIGHTS TO CHILDREN AND WOMEN This remains a resolute reality that children need very special kind of care, love, guidance, and attention as they happen to be very raw, vulnerable, sensitive, and immature. But another deplorable reality is that many children around the globe are subjected to violence on extreme levels. Rights of children are severely abused by forcibly making them participate in camel races in Arab countries where every year, cruel and influential people seek entertainment at the cost of myriad innocent lives. Children are also unlawfully forced to engage in prostitution, pornography, and labor. Since children happen to be particularly and naturally vulnerable and innocent, so they also feel insecure and hesitate to seek refuge and help. Children need to depend on othe rs so it is understandable that majority hesitates to exercise rights