Starbucks Financial Analysis

Starbucks is a strong competitor in the service sector and a leader in the gourmet coffee industry. With a continued growth rate in store openings and maintaining successful profitability of its operations, Starbucks has demonstrated its ability to sustain a reliable and steady growth. Starbucks’ ability to contend with the vulnerability to current financial threats such as economic recession, higher interest rates, and global competition, is constantly proven by its incomparable brand image, its continual product innovations, and its exceptional customer service. This also proves to be its strongest investment strategy.One strategic way to evaluate the vulnerability of Starbucks to current financial threats is to execute a SWOT Analysis. A SWOT analysis is a situation analysis in which the strengths and weaknesses of an organization, and external opportunities and threats it faces are examined to chart a strategy (Business Dictionary, 2012).SWOT is the acronym for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The purpose of the SWOT analysis is to assess what an organization can and cannot do in addition to evaluating the potential opportunities and any financial and economical threats it may face.Over the years, Starbucks have developed much successful strengths. Here are a few of the most recognizable strengths: The quality of their coffee is considered the highest in the world. They engage with customers and the communities to provide better business.Starbucks has over 17,000 stores globally in convenient locations to attract more customers. Starbucks have expanded their product line to sandwiches, pastries, and natural tea-blend drinks. Starbucks have loyal employees who are valued, motivated, and hard-working and are provided a pleasant working environment.They have exceptional relationships with all suppliers which helps them exceed as industry market leaders. Over the past several years, Starbucks has received several award and recognitions such as â€Å"No. 1 Best Coffee† and â€Å"No. 1 Most Popular Quick Refreshment Chain† by Zagat’s Survey of National Chain Restaurants, one of â€Å"The Best 100 Companies to Work For† by Fortune Magazine, one of the â€Å"World’s Most Ethical Compamies† by Ethisphere, and one of the â€Å"World’s 50 most Innovative Companies† by Fast Company. With all companies, where there are strengths there are weaknesses.Starbucks have noted and viable strengths, but they have weaknesses that could overshadow the success of these strengths placing them a step or two behind their competitors. Here are some of their weaknesses: The size of the company is larger than most of their competitors, lack of internal focus because much focus is on expansion and not on the diversification of other sectors, product pricing is overstated because of their premium brand coffee, which demands premium pricing, and excessive dependency on coffee-alone produ cts.Starbucks have willed many opportunities to become the most valuable gourmet coffee leader in the world. They have already succeeded in expanding their product line by introducing the world to cold coffee beverages, flavored herbal drinks, and hot sandwiches and salads for lunch.So, now they have the opportunity to continue to expand in their development overseas, continue their innovation and commitment to product development, and possibly co-brand with other manufacturers of food and drinks to help expand their product line.The competition in gourmet coffee in general has proved to be more advanced than one would imagine. So, it’s no surprise that the competition would be one the most highly doable threats. With coffee sellers ranging from coffee houses to restaurants and fast-food carry-outs such as McDonald’s, Starbucks has to contend with ensuring that they maintain their perfection in coffee and customer service to avoid such threats. Another major threat is the economy. The state of the economy today, particularly in the future depends especially on consumer spending.This would play a key role in Starbucks’ sales growth and profits. Factors such as increased debt service levels resulting from interest rate changes, downturn in the housing market, and the increase in oil and gas prices would affect optional spending.Now that the assessment of the SWOT analysis has been completed, it’s time to determine the financial performance of Starbucks over the past three years and predict how it will perform in the future by using financial ratio analysis. This will be determined by examining the Income Statement and Balance Sheet as of FY 2011.Consolidated Statements Of Earnings (USD $)12 Months EndedIn Millions, except Per Share data Oct. 02, 2011 Oct. 03, 2010 Sep. 27, 2009 Net revenues: Company-operated stores $ 9,632.4 $ 8,963.5 $ 8,180.1 Licensed stores 1,007.50875.2795 CPG, foodservice and other 1,060.50868.7799.5 Total net re venues 11,700.4010,707.409,774.60 Cost of sales including occupancy costs 4,949.304,458.604,324.90 Store operating expenses 3,665.103,551.403,425.10 Other operating expenses 402293.2264.4 Depreciation and amortization expenses 523.3510.4534.7 General and administrative expenses 636.1569.5453 Restructuring charges 053332.4 Total operating expenses 10,175.809,436.109,334.50 Gain on sale of properties 30.200 Income from equity investees 173.7148.1121.9 Operating income 1,728.501,419.40562 Interest income and other, net 115.950.337 Interest expense 33.3-32.7-39.1 Earnings before income taxes 1,811.101,437559.9 Income taxes 563.1488.7168.4 Net earnings including noncontrolling interests 1,248948.3391.5 Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests 2.32.70.7 Net earnings attributable to Starbucks $ 1,245.7 $ 945.6 $ 390.8 Earnings per share – basic $ 1.66 $ 1.27 $ 0.53 Earnings per share – diluted $ 1.62 $ 1.24 $ 0.52 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 748.3744.4738.7 Diluted 769.7764.2745.9 Cash dividends declared per share $ 0.56 $ 0.36 $ 0In reviewing the Income Statement for Starbucks from 2009 to 2011, it is evident that the company has successfully increased its profitability through performance each year by almost 10%. Its income from operation has almost tripled from 2009. Based on Starbucks’ continued plan of expansion, this financial progression depicts a continuous trend.As noted in the financial statement above and pictured in the chart below, Starbucks obtains the majority of its revenue from its company-operated stores. This proves that if Starbucks continues its expansion of retail stores, the revenue from these sales will continue to rise as it has in the past 10 years. The company’s share earnings have also spiked in the last three years by almost doubling between 2009 and 2010 and up 31% in 2011.The financial ratio analysis will provide an assessment of the stability and profitability of Starbucks and allow investors and shareholders to determine the probability of a profitable future. Below is a chart of different financial ratios used to describe the different criteria for Starbucks and to evaluate the past three years. Profitability – Revenue201120102009Gross Profit 57.7%   58.4%   55.8% EBIT Ratio 15.5%   13.4%   5.7%The first set of ratios measures the profitability of Starbucks. These ratios measure the effectiveness of Starbucks capital. A high profitability could be attributed to effective competency. This chart shows that Starbucks have maintained an elevated profit margin, which indicates its ability to manage its largest assets costs.The other ratio, EBIT measures the overall operating efficiency. The next chart shows the liquidity ratios of the firm which indicates how efficient Starbucks handles its short-term obligations. Short-term liquidity includes items that are to be received or paid in cash within a year.A ratio of 2 is the ideal rate for a good standing company using the current ratio. This indicates that the company can pay its creditors and that it has more current assets than current liabilities. A current ratio below 1 signifies trouble for the company and that they may have problems meeting their creditor obligations. The difference between the current ratio and quick ratio is the use of inventory.Financial Condition 2011-2010Debt/Equity Ratio 20%   25% Current Ratio 1.831.55 Quick Ratio 0.190.17The below chart illustrates what kind of return Starbucks receives on its investments. These ratios give investors a clear mind of how well the investments are performing. The ROE ratio illustrates the returns that stockholders are earning on their investments in Starbucks. In prior years, Starbucks have consistently increased this ratio percentage and continues to rise. The ROA ratio tells investors how much profit Starbucks generated for every dollar in assets.Investment Returns % 2011-2010Return on Equity 28.4% 25.7% Return on Assets 18.1% 13.8%Based on the ratios above, it appears that Starbucks is continuing to progress successfully in profits and its ability to increase leverage and maintain a reasonably stable trend in the future. Starbucks can increase leverage by repurchasing outstanding stock and increasing debt financing. Based on the recent benchmarks over a 12 month period, Starbucks is still in line with the industry. â€Å">

Why Prostitution Shouldn’t Be Legal?

Prostitution is a world wide controversial matter that has been around for many years. Prostitution itself is an old profession, but what about it leads to controversial arguments and opposing view points from our society? The idea that prostitution poses of selling one's body in exchange for money has had a negative impact in our society since it was first introduced into our presence. The many risk factors that follow prostitution, for example HIV, are one of many problems associated with going against legalizing prostitution. However, many people feel that diseases will be less frequent with legalizing prostitution.I would like to further explore this topic throughout the course of the semester, and gain an enhanced insight involved on each opposing side's point of view towards the issue, while finding the relevant information needed to back up my ideas and theory for this particular topic. â€Å"Prostitution is an extreme form of gender discrimination. Legalization of this viole nce to women restricts women's freedom and citizenship rights. If women are allowed to become a legitimate commodity, they are consigned to a second-class citizenship. Democracy is subverted† Donna Hughes Making the Harm VisibleThere is intense debate surrounding the legalization of prostitution. Full legalization involves prostitution taking the same status as any other occupation, i. e. giving sex workers access to social security and healthcare, regulating their places and terms of employment, etc. In many EU countries prostitution is de-criminalized, in other words, it is not a criminal offence to work as a prostitute. In the words of Hughes: â€Å"Considering the documented harm to women who are trafficked and prostituted, it is only logical that women should not be criminalized for being the victim of those abuses.Decriminalization also means that women will not fear arrest if they seek assistance and may be more likely to testify against pimps and traffickers. † Hughes goes on to argue that profiting from the services of a prostitute should be a crime in law, be this as a man buying sexual services, or as anyone gaining financial profit from a sex worker's activity: â€Å"But there absolutely should be no decriminalization for pimps, traffickers, brothel owners, or the men who buy women in prostitution. All legal reforms should aim to stop these perpetrators and profiteers. In her Factsheet on Prostitution, Melissa Farley argues that prostitution is: a) sexual harassment b) rape c) battering d) verbal abuse e) domestic violence f) a racist practice g) a violation of human rights h) childhood sexual abuse I) a consequence of male domination of women j) a means of maintaining male domination of women k) all of the above The well known Andrea Dworkin is part of the feminist camp which claims â€Å"Violation is a synonym for intercourse† (Dworkin, Intercourse), and prostitution is no exception; Beyond that, prostitution is the not only the affirmation, but the result of male supremacy.In a 1992 speech called Prostitution and male supremacy, Dworkin claims: â€Å"When men use women in prostitution, they are expressing a pure hatred for the female body. It is as pure as anything on this earth ever is or ever has been. It is contempt so deep, so deep, that a whole human life is reduced to a few sexual orifices, and he can do anything he wants. † Dworkin too asks how to define prostitution, she provides an answer: â€Å"Prostitution is not an idea.It is the mouth, the vagina, the rectum, penetrated usually by a penis, sometimes hands, sometimes objects, by one man and then another and then another and then another and then another. That's what it is. † Andrea Dworkin was speaking at a symposium with the focus of translating ideas from academia to action, but Farley claims Dworkin's brand of feminism is dead. Citing Catharine MacKinnon: â€Å"[In the past, we had a women's] movement which understood that the choice to be beaten by one man for economic survival was not a real choice, despite the appearance of consent a marriage contract might provide. .. Yet now we are supposed to believe, in the name of feminism, that the choice to be fucked by hundreds of men for economic survival must be affirmed as a real choice, and if the woman signs a model release there is no coercion there. † Farley's factsheet publishes results from one study which found 75% of women working as escorts had attempted suicide, and Hughes too points to the harm done to women through prostitution: â€Å"Prostitution causes extreme harm to the body and the mind.Women, who survive the beatings, rapes, sexually transmitted diseases, drugs, alcohol, and emotional abuse, emerge from prostitution ill, traumatized, and often, as poor as when they entered. † Calling on governments to realize that ‘women's bodies and emotions belong to them', Hughes says that is a state permits prostitution to flouri sh, a certain portion of each generation of young women will be lost. â€Å"Prostitution should not be legalized. Legalization means that the state imposes regulations under which women can be prostituted. In effect, regulation means that under certain conditions it is permissible to exploit and abuse women. In 1998 the Swedish government brought a bill to parliament which would in effect criminalize the buyers of sexual services, punishing them with a heavy fine or 6 month in jail. The bill as cited by EUROPAP states: â€Å"This new prohibition marks Sweden's attitude towards prostitution. Prostitution is not a desirable social phenomenon. The government considers, however, that it is not reasonable to punish the person who sells a sexual service. In the majority of cases at least, this person is a weaker partner who is exploited by those who want only to satisfy their sexual drives†¦It is also important to motivate prostitutes to seek help to leave their way of life. They s hould not run the risk of punishment because they have been active as prostitutes. † The legislation in Sweden was not only the result of lesser social acceptance of prostitution, but also an effort to eradicate trafficking. Legally able to sell her body, albeit for a short period of time, women become commodities. Commodification of women not only leads to women becoming second class citizens, but it also normalizes the concept of a human being becoming the property of someone else.For Hughes, there is no difference between trafficking which is by now universally recognized as a severe violation of human rights, and prostitution, which in Europe is widely tolerated, occasionally partly legal, and in the case of Holland, entirely so: â€Å"Prostitution is consuming thousands of girls and women and reaping enormous profits for organized crime in post-communist countries. In addition, each year, several hundred thousand women are trafficked from Eastern European countries for p rostitution in sex industry centers all over the world.The practices are extremely oppressive and incompatible with universal standards of human rights. The sex trade is a form of contemporary slavery and all indications predict its growth and expansion into the 21st century. † The European Parliament reports that police do not expect the sex trade to grow substantially in the Nordic region, however, the Swedish government hopes â€Å"By prohibiting the purchase of sexual services, prostitution and its damaging effects can be counteracted more effectively than hitherto.The government is however of the view that criminalization can never be more than a supplementary element in the efforts to reduce prostitution and cannot be a substitute for broader social exertions. † Hughes would agree that there is a wider social context; however she says â€Å"Above all, state bodies and non-governmental organizations should understand that prostitution is a demand market created by men who buy and sell women's sexuality for their own profit and pleasure.Legal reforms should therefore create remedies that assist victims and prosecute perpetrators† The perception of the prostitute as a victim is one which resounds through the literature against legalization of sex work. For Dworkin, the prostitutes is a victim of male supremacy, poverty and/or incest, and Catharine MacKinnon puts prostitution in a wider context in Prostitution and Civil Rights: â€Å"The legal right to be free from torture and cruel and inhuman or degrading treatment is recognized by most nations and is internationally guaranteed.In prostitution, women are tortured through repeated rape and in all the more conventionally recognized ways. Women are prostituted precisely in order to be degraded and subjected to cruel and brutal treatment without human limits; it is the opportunity to do this that is exchanged when women are bought and sold for sex. † An alternate school of feminism s ees sex work as empowerment, and the sex worker as willfully exerting and exploiting her power over the client.For Hughes, the concept is impossible: â€Å"Most arguments in favor of legalization are based on trying to distinguish between ‘free' and ‘forced' prostitution and trafficking. Considering the extreme conditions of exploitation in the sex industry, those distinctions are nothing but abstractions that make for good academic debates. They are, however,

Stefan’s Diaries: Bloodlust Chapter 10

I awoke next as dusk was settling over the city. From my window, I could see the goldfish-orange sun sinking low behind a white steeple. The entire house was silent, and for a moment, I couldnt remember where I was. Then everything came back: the butcher shop, the vampires, me being flung against the wall. Lexi. As if on cue, she glided into the room, barely making a sound as she pushed open the door. Her blond hair was loose around her shoulders, and she was wearing a simple black dress. If looked at quickly, she could be mistaken for a child. But I could tell from the slight creases around her eyes and the fullness of her lips that shed been a full-grown woman, probably around nineteen or twenty. I had no idea how many years shed seen since then. She perched on the edge of my bed, smoothing back my hair. â€Å"Good evening, Stefan,† she said, a mischievous glint in her eye. She clutched a tumbler of dark liquid between her fingers. â€Å"You slept,† she noted. I nodded. Until Id sunk into the featherbed on the third floor of the house, I hadnt realized that Id barely slept in the past week. Even on the train, Id always been twitching, aware of the sighs and snores of my fellow passengers and always,alwaysthe steady thrum of blood coursing through their veins. But here no heartbeats had kept me from slumber. â€Å"I brought this for you,† she said, proffering the glass. I pushed it away. The blood in it smelled stale, sour. â€Å"You need to drink,† she said, sounding so much like me speaking to Damon that I couldnt help but feel a tiny pang of irritation–and sorrow. I brought the tumbler to my lips and took a tiny sip, fighting the urge to spit it out. As I expected, the drink tasted like dank water and the scent made me feel vaguely ill. Lexi smiled to herself, as if enjoying a private joke. â€Å"Its goats blood. Its good for you. Youll make yourself sick, the way you were feeding. A diet made exclusively of human blood isnt good for the digestion. Or the soul.† â€Å"We dont have souls,† I scoffed. But I brought the cup to my lips once more. Lexi sighed and took the tumbler, placing it on the nightstand next to me. â€Å"So much to learn,† she whispered, almost to herself. â€Å"Well, we have nothing but time, right?† I pointed out. I was rewarded with a rich laugh, which was surprisingly loud and throaty coming from her waif-like body. â€Å"You catch on quickly. Come. Get up. Its time to show you our city,† she said, handing me a plain white shirt and trousers. After changing, I followed her down the creaking wooden stairs to where the other vampires milled about in the ballroom. They were dressed up, but all looked faintly old-fashioned, as if theyd stepped out of one of the many portraits on the wall. Hugo sat at the piano, playing an out-of-tune rendition of Mozart while wearing a blue velvet cape. Buxton, the hulking, violent vampire, was wearing a loose, ruffled, white shirt. and Percy had on faded britches and suspenders that made him look as though he were running late to play a game of ball with his schoolmates. When they saw me, the vampires froze. Hugo managed a slight nod, but the rest merely stared in stony silence. â€Å"Lets go!† Lexi commanded, leading our group out the door, down the slate path, through zigzagging alleyways, and finally onto a street marked Bourbon. Each entryway led to a dimly lit bar, from which inebriated patrons stumbled out into the night air. Suggestively clad women gathered in clumps beneath awnings, and revelers acted punch-drunk, ready to laugh or fight at a moments notice. I instantly knew why Lexi took us here. Despite our odd attire, we attracted no more attention than any of the other lively revelers. As we walked, the others flanked me, keeping me in the center of their circle at all times. I knew I was being watched sharply, and I tried to remain unaffected by the scent of blood and the rhythm of beating hearts. â€Å"Here!† Lexi said, not bothering to consult the rest of the group as she pushed open a saloon door that read M ILADIESin curlicue script. I was impressed by her boldness–back in Mystic Falls, only women of ill repute would ever enter a barroom. But as I was fast realizing, New Orleans wasnt Mystic Falls. The floor of Miladies was caked with sawdust, and I winced at the overwhelmingly acrid smell of sweat, whiskey, and cologne. The tables were packed shoulder to shoulder with men playing cards, gambling, and gossiping. One entire side of the room was filled with Union soldiers, and in another corner, a motley band consisting of players with an accordion, two fiddles, and a flute was playing a jaunty rendition of â€Å"The Battle Hymn of the Republic.† â€Å"What do you think?† Lexi asked, leading me to the bar. â€Å"Is this a Union bar?† I asked. The Union army had captured the city some months back, and soldiers stood sentinel on nearly every corner, maintaining order and reminding Confederates that the war they were fighting looked to be a losing cause. â€Å"Yes. You know what that means, right?† I scanned the room. Aside from the soldiers, it was a solitary crowd. Single men drowned their loneliness at wooden tables, barely acknowledging their neighbors. The bartenders filled glasses with a mechanical air, never seeming to register the people for whom they poured their wares. I understood immediately. â€Å"Everyone here is a stranger passing through.† â€Å"Exactly.† Lexi smiled, clearly pleased that I was catching on. Buxton cleared his throat in disapproval. I could tell he didnt like me–that he was waiting for me to slip up so he could stake me without incurring Lexis wrath. â€Å"Hugo, find us a table!† Lexi commanded. Hugo walked his hulkish frame over to a rough-hewn table next to the band. Before he could even open his mouth, the blue-coated soldiers at the table glanced at each other and stood up, leaving half-filled mugs behind. Lexi pulled out two chairs. â€Å"Stefan, sit next to me.† I sat, vaguely embarrassed that I was so compliant, like a child. But I reminded myself that even Hugo followed her lead. Lexi had Power, and she knew how to use it. Percy, Hugo, and Buxton also settled around. â€Å"Now,† Lexi said, taking one of the abandoned beer mugs and waving it around in the air, just as the waitress approached us. â€Å"Lets teach you how to behave in public.† My cheeks flushed with anger. â€Å"I am behaving,† I said through clenched teeth. â€Å"Despite the fact that there are so many people that its nearly impossible to concentrate.† Percy and Hugo snickered. â€Å"Hes not ready † Buxton said in a surly tone. â€Å"Yes, he is.† Lexis words were low and slightly menacing. Buxton clenched his jaw, clearly trying to rein in his temper. I shifted in my chair. I suddenly felt like I was ten years old again, with Damon protecting me from the Giffin brothers. Only this time it was a girl standing up for me. I was about to point out that I didnt need Lexi to answer for me when she placed a hand on my knee. The touch was gentle and calmed me. â€Å"It gets easier,† she said, briefly catching my eyes. â€Å"So, lesson one,† she stated, addressing the entire group. A kindness on her part, I realized, since I was the only one who didnt know the finer points of being a vampire. â€Å"Lesson one is learning how to compel without drawing attention to yourself.† She leaned back and eyed the band. â€Å"I dont like this song. Stefan, what song would you like to hear?† â€Å"Uh .† I glanced around the table, confused. Percy snickered again, but stopped when Lexi glared at him. â€Å",,God Save the South?† I said hesitantly. The first thing that came to my head, it was a tune Damon used to whistle when he was on leave from the army. Lexi scooted her chair back, the legs kicking up a layer of sawdust. She sauntered over to the band and looked each of the members in the eye as she said something I couldnt hear. The band stopped mid-chord and immediately switched to â€Å"God Save the South.† â€Å"Hey!† one soldier shouted. His comrades glanced at one another, clearly wondering why a band in a Union bar had suddenly been inspired to play a pro-Southern song. Lexi grinned, as if delighted by her trick. â€Å"Are you impressed?† â€Å"Very,† I said, meaning it. Even Percy and Hugo nodded in agreement. Lexi took a sip of her beer. â€Å"Your turn. Pick someone,† she said. I glanced around the bar, my eye catching on a dark-haired barmaid. Her eyes were deep brown, and her hair was tied in a low knot at the nape of her neck. Her lips were parted, and she wore a cameo pendant that nestled in the notch of her neck. In the split second between seeing and knowing, I was reminded of Katherine. I thought of my first glimpse of Miss Molly, and how Id mistaken her for Katherine as well. It felt as though my maker were intent to haunt me in New Orleans. â€Å"Her,† I said, nodding toward the girl. Lexi looked at me sharply, as if she knew there was a story behind this decision. But she didnt pry. â€Å"Clear your mind,† she said instead, â€Å"and allow your energy to enter her.† I nodded, remembering the moment on the train when my thoughts had touched Lavinias. I fixed my gaze on the barmaid. She was laughing, her head tilted back toward the ceiling, but as soon as my focus locked on her, her eyes lowered to mine, almost as if Id bidden her to do so. â€Å"Good,† Lexi murmured. â€Å"Now, use your mind to tell her what you want from her.† That was the piece I had missed. When Id tried to compel the conductor, Id had thousands of thoughts about possible scenarios that could happen during our interaction, but I had not asked for any of them. Come here, I willed, staring into her liquid chocolate eyes.Come to me.For a moment she held her place behind the bar, but then she took a hesitant step forward.Yes, keep going.She stepped forward again, more confidently this time, making her way toward me. I had expected her to look dazed, almost as though she were sleepwalking. But she didnt appear to be in a trance. To any bystander, she could have simply been coming to our table to take our drink orders. â€Å"Hello,† I said when she reached us. â€Å"Dont break eye contact,† Lexi whispered. â€Å"Tell her what you want her to do now.† Sit down,I thought. And, almost instantly, the girl wedged herself between me and Buxton, her thigh warm against mine. â€Å"Hello,† she said unblinkingly. â€Å"Its the strangest thing, but suddenly I just knew that I needed to sit here with you.† â€Å"Im Stefan,† I said, shaking her hand. My fangs elongated, and the sides of my stomach knocked together. I wanted her. Badly. â€Å"Dont embarrass us,† came Lexis final words before she turned from me to face the band. It was clear that while she wasnt condoning any of my subsequent actions, she wasnt necessarily condemning them. Invite me outside, I thought, placing my hand on the barmaids thigh. But even as I thought the words, I glanced at Lexi, breaking my connection with the girl. The girl shifted, pulled her hair up, then dropped it down on her back. She glanced at the band, rubbing her forefinger on the rim of a glass. Invite me outside, I thought again, refocusing my attention fully on her. Sweat prickled my temple. Had I lost the connection for good? But then she gave a slight nod. â€Å"You know, its awfully loud in here, and I want to speak with you. Would you mind if we went outside?† she asked, staring at me. I stood up, my chair scraping against the floor. â€Å"Id like that very much,† I said, offering her my arm. â€Å"Bring her back alive, boy, or youll be answering to me,† said a voice so low that I wondered if Id imagined it. But when I turned back, Lexi merely smiled and waved.

Read "Sticks and Stones 255-259 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Read "Sticks and Stones 255-259 - Assignment Example The controversial position taken by the Native American community led education institutions such as the Stanford University, to review the names of their teams. The move to stop the usage of Native American names, slogans and customs by sporting teams is very important. This is because sporting needs must be sensitive towards the feeling and opinions of the native communities. Adequate consent should be obtained from the leadership of the Native Communities for the usage of their traditional artifacts and practices. Consent will enhance the support and ownership of the Natives, in the sport teams. Sticks, Stones and Sporting Team Names, illustrate the controversial issue of representing an ethnic group through the sports mascots. Cases in point are the sporting teams that were known as the Washington Redskins and the Cleveland Indians. The ethnic sporting names were not initially aimed at disparaging the Native Americans. This is because the noble symbols represent pride and strength. But, the concept of using human societies as mascots is very dehumanizing. The mascot practices, differentiates the affected communities from the rest of the American

Analysis of Article about Renewable Energy and Climate Change Annotated Bibliography

Analysis of Article about Renewable Energy and Climate Change - Annotated Bibliography Example The temperature of the earth is increasing due to entrapment of sun’s heat and light by the greenhouse gases such as methane, carbon dioxide, and water vapor among others. As a result, global warming affects the life of living beings on land and water as well. Thus, many species of aquatic plants and animals have become extinct from the global history. In addition, many human beings also lost their lives due to loss of shelter, food and water. Apart from this, rise of temperature also resulted in melting of ice deposits which hampered the growth of human life. Apart from this, increase in the level of ocean water also destroyed many agricultural lands thereby hampering cultivation as well as lives of many plants, animals and human beings. In addition, due to loss of agriculture, drought raised resulting in the demise of many human individuals, animals and plants as well. Moreover, due to discharge of harmful greenhouse gases namely carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide from automobiles and heavy industries also created a high impact on the atmospheric situation of the world. Apart from these, cutting of trees in order to develop elevated constructions is also considered as an important aspect responsible for global warming in this era. Moreover, the article also provides a detailed overview about the total cost incurrence while implementing Renewable Energy (RE) technologies rather than fossil fuels. Hence, in order to condense global warming, many organizations are attempting to innovate and to develop modern technologies and tactics such as renewable energy sources. Among them, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climatic Change (IPCC), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) are certain noteworthy names responsible for altering the climatic variations and its impact on world.

How to decrease the possibility of having financial crisis Essay

How to decrease the possibility of having financial crisis - Essay Example The financial crisis in a company is an unplanned burden which may affect its resources, capabilities, the values and the goodwill of the company. Lack of corporate governance and business ethics is one of the reasons responsible for the financial crisis in an organization. Acemoglu and Johnson (2003) have said that managers should change their way of thinking by disregarding that mismanagement of the macroeconomic policies is responsible for the lack of corporate governance. They should plan for strategies to overcome crisis in an organisation. The business leaders should focus on the policies like the legal framework of the organisation and protection of the interest of the stakeholders and investors. A good relationship between the shareholders and the managers help to achieve corporate governance within an organisation. Lack of business ethics in an organisation is responsible for weak corporate governance. Business ethics help an organization to frame a corporate governance stra tegy consisting of values, principles, a good work culture and proper decision making ability of the organizations. Wood (2002) and Lagan (2006) have said that organizations need to set the business ethics with strategic objective which can provide scope for achievement of corporate governance. ... The purpose of this research is to provide a methodology by which an organization can achieve proper corporate governance required in order to reduce its financial crisis. The main objectives of this research are: To achieve transparency and fair operations within an organization. To provide proper decision making ability in order to achieve the goals of an organization. To protect the interest of the customers, the shareholders and the investors. To understand the needs and demands of the stakeholders. To prevent the occurrence of unethical behaviour within an organization. To understand the liability of the directors to the managers and the liability of the managers to the shareholders, also known as accountability. Methodology According to Joseph and Tobin (2006) research philosophy is a procedure of collecting data, analysing it and then interpreting the result in order to work on a particular research. Research philosophy mainly consists of two approaches. One is the positivist style and the other one is the phenomenological style. Positivist research model focuses on analyzing the interdependency of the external variables and internal variables. Positivist style is selected for this research, as this style deals with understanding of the internal affairs related to a business. Positivist style of research will also help to understand the reasons behind the lack of corporate governance in an organization. There are two types of research strategies, namely quantitative research methodology and qualitative research methodology. The research strategy chosen for this research is qualitative methodology. Qualitative research model is used for descriptive research. Qualitative research can be analysed in terms of culture, ethics and behaviour. Qualitative

Explain a Marketing concept for MKGT 3000 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Explain a Marketing concept for MKGT 3000 - Essay Example We would be discussing few major factors that significantly impact purchase behavior and consumption pattern of the products that are used in marketing a product. Customers’ purchase behavior is quite complex because it is intensely influenced by socio-economic and psychological paradigms. It is true that consumers purchase products only when they perceive the need for it. But at the same time, the need could have triggered either by advertisement or by observing other people which could lead to the purchase of the product. Various factors like price, buying value, consumption value and after sales performance add credibility to the purchase. If customer is satisfied, the organizations are not only able to retain them but they are also liable to get new ones through word of mouth publicity that greatly establishes their market credibility. Arnould et al (2004) assert that consumer behavior is also motivated by desired goal that is need based. Products that are bought mainly as a lifestyle statement are prompted by motivated goals. Luxury brands and trend setting goods are major indicators of changing lifestyle pattern that people are ready to adopt to keep up with the times. People are prone to adopt new lifestyle that reflects that changing socio-economic status in society. It also reveals their new value system, tastes and indeed changing preferences.

Country Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Country Analysis - Essay Example Some scholars argue that the process of globalization is beneficial for a country’s economy because it is based on the principle of free trade and thus increases the overall competition levels and consequent efficiency of the world’s markets. However, in the specific case of India, scholars have elaborated on how the process of globalization has in fact had negative effects on the country’s economy. Since partition in 1947, India’s trade and industrialization policies have varied; up until 1961 the trade policies were quite â€Å"liberal†, from this point onwards and up till 1977 the government of India geared its trade agenda to prioritize domestic industry, 1978 onwards they were again aligned towards liberalization and finally in 1991, after a severe financial crisis India opened its doors to free trade and globalization. To aid the process, IMF and World Bank provided the Indian economy with loans. The country strove to meet its import demands w hile simultaneously removing import duties in stable phases. In 1995, India formally joined the World Trade Organization. 2004 was a precipice for the Indian economy and saw privatization of several public sectors companies, the crash of their stock exchange and the slowdown and in some places the reversal of the globalization process for the Indian economy. The time period from 1991-2004 was the time in which India experienced the highest levels of foreign direct investments yet. India also received aid from several countries all over the world; to name a few, the UK provided grants aimed towards developing the education sector and alleviating poverty, Japan provided loans and grants aimed at the development of power industry, railways, telecommunication and poverty alleviation and Denmark gave India grants and loans for private sector businesses related to imports. There were also some measures taken by GATT and WTO on India’s account geared towards solving India’s b alance of payment problems, increasing the economy’s productivity and global competitiveness and local equity management. Foreign direct investment in India peaked by 1961 and had increased up to 90% by 1990. From 1991 onwards FDI kept increasing as India was now open to free trade and liberalization policies. Globalization also affected the export levels and levels of outsourcing from India; the export basket was made up of mostly law value goods like textiles, handicrafts and garments. The levels of outsourcing however, were phenomenal; India had strong footing in the supply of cheap labor, thin margins and competitive markets. In recent years, outsourcing in India has expanded to involve the technology sector and other backend services sectors. Simultaneously, the outward foreign direct investment from India has also expanded which shows that India’s competitiveness and productivity in the global market has also increased however, improvement is still required as In dia’s outward FDI consists mainly of basic and commodity products and has not yet reached the efficiency levels required of global standards. Nayar (2006), talks about how globalization in India has had an impact on three important elements, namely the flow of goods and services, the flow of capital and the migration of people. This paper

Introduction to Financial Services Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Introduction to Financial Services - Case Study Example Fifty years ago, financial services has accounted for less than 3 percent of GDP in the US and developed Europe, which at present, is mounted to almost 10 percent (Stephenson 2005). Thus, the financial services industry is one of the many industries that produce rapid growth in the world economy (Stephenson 2005). The modern financial industry witnessed 1986 as the 'big bang' era that opened London up more widely to international competition through electronic trading (Harris 1998). The onset of computer technology and global telecommunications systems has undoubtedly brought rapid changes that likewise brought changes to financial services. A widening of shared ownership and investment opportunities from few to many has been heralded by this development (Harris 1998). This development has bid adieu to the usage of a stockbroker, as it has now been possible for one to buy and sell certain financial investments through a visit to the local bank or using the computer. Before the onset of advanced technology and computerization, there used to be a clear difference between a retail bank and a building society, or an insurance company, which all had a separate business from the retail bank. Today, financial institutions cannot be easily differentiated as the differences between them are disappearing while they continuously compete against each other to sell services that used to be sold by just one portion of the sector (Harris 1998). The past witnessed each firm with a narrow band of services, which it offered to a wide range of consumers and business clients. Even the payment system was controlled by commercial banks that have the authority to clear checks and drafts. Today, payments and money are facilitated electronically in volumes that are not easily handled in the physical form (Johnson 2000). Mortgage finance, which is now traded as securities, is likewise available from a wide range of sources while securities firm offer corporate and gover nment securities as investment avenues (Johnson 2000). Even insurance companies provide products that compete with investments, which can be obtained through securities firms. It may be inferred that the dynamics of the banking industry have been permanently changed by mutual funds, which is an outcome of recent technology advancement (Johnson 2000). The same advancement has blurred traditional roles, causing difficulty to distinguish the product of a commercial bank from that of another financial institution. Banks are now selling insurance, with some having taken over some insurance firms. Virgin Boots offers a range of insurance companies in much the same way as Marks &Spencer sells investment products and pensions (Harris 1998). Likewise, if one needs a mortgage, he can go to a building society, a bank, an insurance company, and even a local supermarket. Financial services also witnessed the rapid growth of telephone call centres and helplines with their increased staffing jobs. A process of significant change in a period of new alignments in domestic markets and increased global competition is currently faced by the financial services industry (Johnson 2000). For several years, bank deposits have served as the basis for the country's payment mechanism, until such time electronic banking occurred, replacing physical

Individual Assessment of the Inquiry-Guided Learning Team Project Personal Statement

Individual Assessment of the Inquiry-Guided Learning Team Project - Personal Statement Example The United Nations comprises of the International Court of Justice, General Assembly, Trusteeship Council, Secretariat, Economic and Social Council and the Security Council. Unlike the League, United Nations membership comprises all the major world sovereign states except Vatican City, and focuses on peacekeeping operations. The process towards United Nations membership entails the fulfillment of the requirements as outlined in the United Nations Charter. The Security Council reviews the application then recommends the applicant for membership to the General Assembly who approves or declines the membership. The two World Wars created conflicts that called for peace initiatives in preserving international relations. In this regard, the team project embarked on assessing initiatives for peace through diplomacy in relation to the League of Nations and the United Nations. The team then designed an inquiry project on how the United Nations carries on with the aims of the League. Through a document-based research, the team conducted an inquiry into the peace problem and documented the findings in writing as well as presenting them orally in class (Kaabi et al. 1-4). Class presentation became an interactive and interesting activity that provided a wider insight into the inquiry and presentation of the ideas. The power point presentation outlined the most significant elements of the findings thereby providing ease and continuity of the presentation of ideas. Writing a collective paper entails both positive and negative implications on team members and the overall results of the project. Teamwork eased the pace at which inquiry would be achieved, its documentation and oral presentation as well as the collection of diverse ideas from different team members. On the contrary, teamwork could be time consuming in terms of conducting documentary research and all members on the topic under study must reach documentation since an agreement. Also, harmonizing each

Office Automation and Group Collaboration Software Essay Example for Free

Office Automation and Group Collaboration Software Essay Nowadays, in the modern business world, Office Automation Software include calendar and scheduling, call accounting and management, data entry, email management, fax management, and forms management softwares. On the other hand, Group Collaboration Software include group calendar, groupware solution, mailing list management, messaging solution, teleconferencing, video web conferencing, and web discussion system software. However, the uses of aforementioned software in most of the offices vary with respect to the requirements and the environment of the business operation. Office Automation Software have become an essential part of any business organization. As a matter of fact, word processing programs like Microsoft Word have replaced typewriters and paper-based work is being performed in database programmes. For instance, Employees attendance records and periodical inventory sales reports are useful operations which are being accomplished using automation software. On the other hand, group collaboration software adds value to business with respect of time management. This software allows business representatives to collaborate and get their colleagues’ views and ideas on different occasions. In this article, I will describe the uses of these software and analyze their advantages and disadvantages In my organization, there are 40 employees and all of them use Office Automation Software for the timely and accurate completion of their duties. In addition to that, most of the time we also use group collaboration software to solve a particular problem or we use it while analyzing sales, evaluating inventory, holding online meetings, etc. Video Conferencing Software Video conferencing system uses a room system in most of the offices. It allows its users to make a solicitation from the template that has already been created by someone. Consequently, it allows bidders to make or replace their bid in an electronic format, saves time, helps users who want to place or change their bid from their residence or offices, and saves money which might have been spent on traveling. A major disadvantage of this software is that in complex situations, while users bid on this platform, secret information may get leaked. Electronic Mail Electronic mail has replaced postage in every organization. Email software allows billions of users to communicate fastly and cheaply as compared to postage. In business offices, email has changed the whole phenomena of communication. Office colleagues can communicate directly both inside and outside the organization in a short period of time. Emails also allow a user to send or receive multiple documents with attachments of files or folders. On the other hand, you may lose data which is saved in your email account or your email account can be hacked by someone else resulting in an unauthorized use of your account and the leakage of your private business information. Furthermore, if you send some wrong information in your email, it cannot be taken back. Web Conferencing Software Web conferencing software enables multiple users to arrange an online meeting in order to solve particular problems or to discuss particular matters related to business operation. Web conferencing has completely changed the concept of meetings in the way that you can discuss many things online and solve your problems from anywhere. Consequently, it saves the time of business executives. The only disadvantage of web conferencing is that some problems cannot be solved on web conferencing since the physical presence of employees creates a different environment of mutual understanding and cooperation and gives a sense of closeness. Word Processing Software Nowadays, word processing software has become mandatory software for every organization. Before the invention of this software, the work associated with this nature was done by the typewriter and it was time-consuming. Following are the advantages and disadvantages of this software. (1) â€Å"It is easier to make changes to your document. You can move, change, delete, save, and format all your ideas in one handy file. (2) It frees you to express ideas more clearly and to let your thoughts flow because anything can be changed or deleted later. 3) It allows you to organize all your work or ideas together in a file. Instead of deleting paragraphs that do not seem to fit an assignment, you can move them to the end of the file where they can be used later or in another project. (4) It is easy to share and store word processing files electronically†. The only disadvantage associated with this software is that you may lose your data while working due to sudden electric power failure. (Advantages) Call Accounting and Management Software Since its invention, call accounting software has been adopted by approximately 90% of the established and non-established organizations because of its accuracy and cost effectiveness. A good call accounting software tracks and records various calls of clients and business partners, facilitates customer support management by saving all telephonic data, tracks call timing, and so on . Thus, by taking an analysis of its calls, an organization can easily know about its precious customers records and orders. This practice creates a good business environment across the organization. However, the only disadvantage of this software is, if the operator did not create a backup file and an error occurred in the software, data may be lost. Group Calendar Software Group calendar software allows you to organize your critical business events and meetings according to the departments, locations, projects, and time. Having group calendar software online, your employees and business partners can easily arrange a meeting by keeping in mind their work details and availability of time. Web based group calendars provide a cost effective solution without the anxieties and cost inherent with supporting complex in-house calendar system. There is no software to install no server to maintain ever plus group calendar tools are a perfect solution for rapidly expanding projects or distributed work forces†. (group calendar) Time and Attendance Software By using time and attendance software, we can easily save time of our payroll department employees. Time and attendance software automatically record and keep check-in and check-out timings of employees without delay. This software also makes it possible to calculate wages and salaries of workers and employees. Moreover, it provides complete details of attendance and check-in and check-out times to the payroll department that saves time. In addition to that, it is completely secure and can be accessed form different departments of an organization. However, occurrence of an error can create problems because this is the only place where employees records are kept. Conclusion Finally, computer software made it possible to run business operations more effectively and accurately. In today’s global world, computers have become a major part of every business organization because of their cost effectiveness and they also pave the way for every business organization to excel upon others by using them. Both Office Automation Software and Group Collaboration Software enhance the business activities and make it possible for the employees to save precious time and money of the organization. Some software like call recording software adds value to customer services and creates an excellent platform to keep records of their clients which increases organizational goodwill.

Fruit of Divorce Essay Example for Free

Fruit of Divorce Essay The increasing number of divorce and separation issues among families has sprouted an immense change in the behavior of children, specifically on negative characteristics that has in a way or another spurred debates and deliberations both in the state and in the country. Studies show that changes in marriage, divorce and fertility have led to distinction in family structures—overt interparental conflict, poor parenting and economic hardship—these however, are found to be conjointly predicting the behavior of preadolescent and early adolescent youth. The identification of specific factors that place youth at risk for behavioral and emotional problems has concerned social scientists for years. As a matter of fact, several literary social scientists have commenced studies on determining the factors that may have led juvenile delinquents to their absurd conditions and in most cases, they incorporate psychological aide to prevent such results in the long run. Further, in an article written by Shannon E. Cavanagh and Aletha C. Huston, their study expressed the dilemma in which family instability sprouts and affects children (Cavanagh Huston, 2006). Findings from their study support the pattern of independent, additive effects of individual family stressors and variances that include other social factors that may have led to the behavior of a child. Even though their research only scaled quite a number of respondents, they were able to come up with a pattern, which they expressed to diagrams, on the level of sensitivity and behavior of children not only to their parents but including their teachers and relatives. In order to give weight on the study, the University of Texas at Austin authors paved a way in portraying the common grounds of family instability by relating the behavioral transitions to previously published related studies. Initially, the authors presented an array of ideas on the concept of an American Family while incorporating statistical details on perspectives that involved common family dilemmas or histories that constitute major stressors in a child’s life (Cavanagh Huston, 2006). In such way, they are able to set the evaluative factors of their study hence not undermining the importance of reviewing related literature. The aim or the objectives of the study were thoroughly defined—describe the histories of family instability during the preschool years for children born into different family structures; examine how family instability from birth through early childhood affect childrens problem behavior during the transition into formal education; and explore how the developmental significance of family instability is exacerbated or reduced by initial family structure as well as the material, social and emotional resources of the home, in order to identify circumstances in which children are most and least vulnerable to family instability. Further, their sampling procedure, with National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (NICHD SECCYD) as sample in the comprehensive longitudinal study gave concise results. With 120 child behaviors and 34 items of problem conducts, each teacher has been asked to describe the child for the past two months scaling each behavior with 3 choices in accordance to frequency. Taken as a whole, offspring whose mothers had stumpy typical levels and waning levels of maternal compassion towards their nursery years patented further problem manners in the classroom, as any person could apparently anticipate. In essence, the primary rationale of SECCYD was to identify the implication of progression of early child care, on the other hand, the extensiveness and profundity of data collected branched valuable resources for studying the development of youth overall.In the light, the study still has limitations which I believe still needs to be addressed in a more meticulous and comprehensive study or research. Reference Cavanagh, S. E. , Huston, A. C. (2006). Family Instability and Childrens Early Problem Behavior. Social Forces, 85(1), 551-581.

This Experiment Marcet Boiler Engineering Essay

This Experiment Marcet Boiler Engineering Essay In This experiment a Marcet boiler was used to conduct the relationship between a saturated pressure and temperature of water in the range of 0-14 bar indicating in the gauge and also to determine the temperature of a body when being heated or cooled. When the temperature increases pressure also increases in this case the relationship between pressure and temperature is directly proportional. Assumption was made that the temperature is uniform throughout the boiler and the outside surface temperature of the boiler is the same as the steam temperature. Theoretically, the values from the steam table should almost be the same with the recorded values. In this case, if the values are not the same then this is due to error that was made in the experiment. The experiment was performed carefully and all procedure was followed to get accurate result. First of all the startup procedure is to fill water in Marcet boiler and the water level is half of the boilers height. Then the supply switch was turned on. It is important to remove the air in the boiler in this case the valve would be open from the start up of the experiment When the temperature increases to 100Â °C, the steam is allowed to come out from the valve for few seconds and close the valve. Record the steam temperature and pressure reaches 14 bars. Introduction Thermodynamics is the study of heat and in relation in other form of work and energy between a system and its surrounding; in this case the property in the system will change. Generally ideal gas obeys the equation of state which is showed below. PV= When energy is increased in the water .the molecules in the water that is increasing will enable the molecules to escape from the surface until it is in equilibrium (boiling point). The state of equilibrium depends on the pressure in the surface of the water. When the pressure is low it is easier for the molecules to leave the water with less energy. The Marcet boiler is used to investigate the relationship pressure and temperature in saturated steam for comparison with the steam table .the experiment slope (dT/dp) is obtained water at saturated temperature Theory The Marcet boiler is used to investigate the between pressure and temperature of saturated steam, in equilibrium with water, at all pressures between atmospheric and a 14bar An ideal gas can be characterized by three state variables: absolute pressure (P), volume (V), and absolute temperature (T). The relationship between them may be deduced from kinetic theory and is called the Ideal Gas law. The ideal gas law was originally determined empirically and is simply. and hf + hfg = hg Æ’Å ¾ hf as vg >> vf In which, vf = specific volume of saturated liquid vg = specific volume of saturated vapor hf = enthalpy of saturated liquid hg = enthalpy of saturated vapor hfg = latent heat of vaporization Equipment Procedure Fill up water half the height of the boiler Ensure the valve is opened Connect the boiler to the electrical switch The boiler is heated up to 100Â °c and the steam will come out of the open valve Close the valve after 1 minutes to ensure that the air in the boiler is out and continues heating When the pressure start rising , start the stop watch Record all the temperature readings at different pressure with time Pressure must not exceed 14 bar Discussion The theory can be compared with the experiment where pressure and temperature are directly proportional to each other When a water is heated in a container to a boiling point the tempreture increases and presussre also increase in the case where the steam is closed in a cylinder, Their will be internal pressure in the container and also internal forces. it is shown in the graph that tempreture is relatively proportional to pressure In the table error was zero because the decreasing tempreture of the boiler was not noted down therefore erro is unknown . assuming the decreasing tempreture is considered the the error percentage would now exceed 10% because the experiment was done in a closed system so no amount of volume will escape It was important to remove the air from the boiler to avoid flaws of readings . Marcet boiler is used in plant steam industries, power plant, cooking utensil and so on Conclusion in the experiment, it shows from the table and theory that temperature and pressure is relatively proportional in balance with water Disgracing some negligible faults, this experiment can be consider successful, to improve the result of the experiment, it should be carried out at room temperature switching off all the air-conditions, and also by repeating the experiment and taking the average value. If some insulation were kept on theMarcet boiler to reduce heat loss, the experiment could be more accurate

Physics of Cooling Lava :: physics lava volcano

On January 23rd 1973 a new volcano unexpectedly erupted in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, southwest of Iceland. The new volcano was a fissure 1.25 miles long and only 1100 yards from the center of town, also named Vestmannaeyjar. The new volcano was named Heimaey. The town was mostly evacuated over the next few days and the lava slowly flowed towards town and the mouth of the harbor for the next seven months. Vestmannaeyjar is the only good harbour in that part of Iceland, and was the base for a large fishing fleet that produces a significant part of Iceland’s GNP. As the lava threatened to overrun the town and close off the harbor, a decision was made to try to slow and divert the lava by cooling it with sea water. The idea was initially scoffed at, but when small initial efforts seemed to have an effect the scale of the operation was increased. Over seven months eight million cubic yards of sea water were pumped onto the lava flow; they cooled 5 million cubic yards of basal t lava to solid rock. The harbor and much of the town survived the eruption, likely as a result of the efforts to cool the lava. Iceland is known for its volcanic activity. A few years before Heimaey erupted; a nearby sub oceanic eruption formed the new island of Surtsey. The town of Vestmannaeyjar already had an extinct volcano on its outskirts, the volcano was known as Helgafell. It was thought to have been extinct for several hundred years. In January 1973 a new fissure opened up a few hundred yards from the extinct volcano. It went clear across the island and into the ocean on both sides. Boats escaping the harbor saw red magma under the water, and sub oceanic power and water lines from the mainland were broken by the eruption. In the initial eruption a curtain of lava 500 feet erupted from the fissure, after a few days the eruption was mostly from a single vent, with a cinder cone 300 feet tall. The lava flows from the eruption were a viscous slow moving basaltic magma. Average speeds for the lava flows were 3 to 9 yards a day. These relatively slow speeds are what made it possible to try and cool and div ert the lava. The lava was initially cooled with fire pumps and hoses, later in the effort large pumps were leased from the US military and several fire fighting boats were used.

Different Yet Complimentary :: essays papers

Different Yet Complimentary Even though the Bergmann rule and Allan rule are different rules entirely they are both complementary to each other. In 1847 Bergmann observed that within the same spices of warm-blooded animals, populations have less bulky individuals are more often found in warm climates near the equator while, those with greater bulk, mass, are found further from the equator in colder regions. This is due to the fact that big animals generally have larger body masses that result in more heat being produced. The greater amount of heat results from there being more cells. A normal by product of metabolism in cells is heat production. Subsequently the more cells an animal has, the more internal heat it will produce. In addition, larger animals usually have smaller surface area relative to their body masses and therefore are comparatively, in efficient at radiating their body heat off into the surrounding environment. This is illustrated when the volume increases twice as fast as the surface size. Rel atively less surface area results in relatively less heat being lost. In 1877, Allen went further than Bergmann in observing that the length of arms, legs, and other appendages also has an effect on the amount of heat lost to the surrounding environment. He noted that among warm-blooded animals, individuals in populations living further away from the equator in colder environments. This is due to the fact that a thin body with relatively long appendages is less compact and subsequently has more surface area. The greater the body area, the faster body heat will be lost to the environment. A tall and slender individual will have the same volume but greater surface area. It is comparable to an animal with arm and legs. I will demonstrate to you in this essay that even though the Allan rule and Bergmann rule are two different rules they are also complementary to each other. I will show this through explaining each on thoroughly, compare and contrast them and by presenting examples for e ach rule. Carl Bergmann was a 19th century biologist who pointed out that amongst birds and mammal individuals of the same species tend to be larger and heavier when they lived in colder climates. This applies to pumas, bears, koalas, penguins, etc. Even in the case of people, there is an obvious difference between the height and weight of a high-latitude Scandinavian and those of an equatorial pygmy.

Jorge Borges Life Seen In The Secret Miracle Essay -- Jorge Luis Borg

In 1944, Jorge Luis Borges published â€Å"The Secret Miracle†, a short story describing Jaromir Hladik, a Jew living in the Second World War. Jaromir Hladik is taken away by the Germans to a jail by the Germans to be executed shortly after. While in jail, he ponders on all the ways he could be killed and later realizes that he still has yet to finish his play â€Å"The Enemies†. He prays to God, begging for a year to be granted to him so that he can complete his last masterpiece. In a dream, he is granted that year. When the Germans pull the trigger, the world freezes for a full year so he can finish his play. At a first glance, â€Å"The Secret Miracle† appears to be merely a fictioness story. However, Borges included so much of his own life in the character of Jaromir Hladik that the story no longer seems to be so made up. â€Å"Borges writing was impelled and shaped by experience† (Williamson 296). Borges grew up loving books from the very start of hi s life. His father was always a reader, so he had a room set up like a library that housed hundreds of books. Borges also grew up in a family with colorful war history, which allowed him to be introduced to interesting stories early on. At the age of 56, he was completely blind, causing him to see literature in a different way. He no longer thought literature was a reality. For instance, he believed that although an apple is called an â€Å"apple†, it may not actually have that name. Yet he continues to write in this unreality for he feels that it is a writer’s duty to speak out against Juan Peron through literature. In spite of Borges’ belief that literature is not reality, there is evidence of Borges’ life embedded in it which clearly shape the issues and concerns of his work. Borges was always one ... ...ss, which is difficult and requires strategy to succeed. This would fit in with Borges struggle to succeed in his work. In addition, Borges states that, â€Å"No one could any longer describe the forgotten prize, but it was rumored that it was enormous and perhaps infinite† (Borges 166). This could be referring to the prize of life. Many speak of life as being grand, yet no one actually knows whether life on Earth is a prize or not. It goes on to say that Hladik does â€Å"not remember the chessmen or the rules of chess† (Borges 166). In other words, Borges no longer remembers how to live his own life. Borges was first introduced to the game of chess by his father who â€Å"presented him with mathematical theories and philosophical puzzles† (Sickels 4) while teaching him how to become a better chess player. Perhaps this was Borges’ first encounter with the philosophy of life. Jorge Borges' Life Seen In The Secret Miracle Essay -- Jorge Luis Borg In 1944, Jorge Luis Borges published â€Å"The Secret Miracle†, a short story describing Jaromir Hladik, a Jew living in the Second World War. Jaromir Hladik is taken away by the Germans to a jail by the Germans to be executed shortly after. While in jail, he ponders on all the ways he could be killed and later realizes that he still has yet to finish his play â€Å"The Enemies†. He prays to God, begging for a year to be granted to him so that he can complete his last masterpiece. In a dream, he is granted that year. When the Germans pull the trigger, the world freezes for a full year so he can finish his play. At a first glance, â€Å"The Secret Miracle† appears to be merely a fictioness story. However, Borges included so much of his own life in the character of Jaromir Hladik that the story no longer seems to be so made up. â€Å"Borges writing was impelled and shaped by experience† (Williamson 296). Borges grew up loving books from the very start of hi s life. His father was always a reader, so he had a room set up like a library that housed hundreds of books. Borges also grew up in a family with colorful war history, which allowed him to be introduced to interesting stories early on. At the age of 56, he was completely blind, causing him to see literature in a different way. He no longer thought literature was a reality. For instance, he believed that although an apple is called an â€Å"apple†, it may not actually have that name. Yet he continues to write in this unreality for he feels that it is a writer’s duty to speak out against Juan Peron through literature. In spite of Borges’ belief that literature is not reality, there is evidence of Borges’ life embedded in it which clearly shape the issues and concerns of his work. Borges was always one ... ...ss, which is difficult and requires strategy to succeed. This would fit in with Borges struggle to succeed in his work. In addition, Borges states that, â€Å"No one could any longer describe the forgotten prize, but it was rumored that it was enormous and perhaps infinite† (Borges 166). This could be referring to the prize of life. Many speak of life as being grand, yet no one actually knows whether life on Earth is a prize or not. It goes on to say that Hladik does â€Å"not remember the chessmen or the rules of chess† (Borges 166). In other words, Borges no longer remembers how to live his own life. Borges was first introduced to the game of chess by his father who â€Å"presented him with mathematical theories and philosophical puzzles† (Sickels 4) while teaching him how to become a better chess player. Perhaps this was Borges’ first encounter with the philosophy of life.

Proton Holdings Berhad Company Vision & Mission Critique Essay

The Critiques on Vision & Mission of Perusahaan Automobil Nasional (PROTON) Vision can be define as an inspire statement that consists of goal and objective that an organization would like to achieve or accomplish in the mid-term or long term future. It is intended to serves as a clear guide for choosing current and future course of action. It also becomes the driver statement that will lead the organization to achieve its objective and goals. Mission is a statement or a written declaration that consist of organization core purposes. Normally a mission statement remains unchanged over time. Mission statement serve as filters to separate what is important from what is not, a statement that clearly state which markets will be served and how for business organization and a statement that communicate a sense of future direction to the whole organization. Vision and Mission statement for an organization must be clear and understandable by all staff  in the organization. Mission statement is slightly different from Vision statement, although both statements carry same objective which lead and drive the company by act as a railway path in order for a company keep track on all course of action to achieve the organization objective and target. A mission is something to be accomplished whereas a vision is something to be pursued for that accomplishment. As mentioned earlier, it is important for a company to have its own Vision and Mission statement and it is import for both statements are logically achievable and understandable. A vision helps to lead the company to its main objective. A mission defines the organization purposes. Vision of PROTON is to be â€Å"A Leading Globally Mobility Solutions Provider†. Mission statement of PROTON is to â€Å"continuously create innovative processes, products & services that win people’s hearts & minds†. In my opinion, I do agree with the both Vision and Mission statements due to some reason and factors that will be briefly explain and critique on the next paragraph. The reason I agree with the Vision statement because of several factors that physically may be observe and analyze on the result that related to the statement. The word of â€Å"A Leading† describes the position of PROTON in the automotive industries in Malaysia. For past a few years back, PROTON did achieve on that level as a No 1 ranking car manufacturer and volume of sales in Malaysia Automotive industries. The ranking drop and become No 2 since year of Myvi launched by Perodua. The only reason PROTON drop in ranking due to several factors that makes the Brand name losing its customers confidence. Since PROTON share being bought by DRB-Hicom, this Vision statement has been impose and to lead the company to get back on the No 1 ranking not only in Malaysia Automotive Industries but ranking No 1 globally in term of mobility solution provider which will further explain on next paragraph. The word â€Å"Global† being used and presence since PROTON start to export car to United Kingdom and acquired LOTUS. For the financial year of 14/15, PROTON had exported almost 600 Units of various model of car (Proton Models) to almost 45% big automotive market around the globe. The emergence of Research & Development (RND) Division in Proton is also one of the main factors that the Vision statement has been setup as the Global Mobility Solutions Provider. With the ability to perform research and development on car engine, safety features and other related technology for developing a new car that meet the demand and current  requirement of global environmental act, PROTON set a target to be the leading Global Mobility solution provider which resulted to ensure PROTON excel in future. In order to perform this, a knowledge transfer and adoption of new technology being done by PROTON and it resulted from joint venture projects, exchange technology and others with various othe r automotive manufacturers around the world. The word of ‘Mobility† in the vision statement is referring to 6 main pillars of PROTON Business Structure. There are motor vehicles, technology provider, engineering services, manufacturing services, human capital development and supporting business. Motor vehicles manufacture refers to the development of passenger vehicles (Exora), Performance-niche (Preve, Suprima & Iriz), alternative propulsion (Saga EV, Exora EV, Preve EEV & Iriz EV-Prototype and has high intension to be develop and produce in future), commercial vehicles (All Model) and others (Prototype Engine). All this activity has shown a various results and this justify a positive feedback on the vision statement setup by PROTON. It also inline with the objective to be a leading global mobility solution provider where all the 6 pillars had to be works together, by having a good human capital development through a professional training and supporting business through increase number of sales volume and high thro ughput of Service revenue. Besides that, PROTON has various strategy implemented to ensure all this 6 pillar working together, by having a contract assembly, component manufacturing (Proton Parts Centre), Sales & Service, Financing, Insurance and other for PROTON to build and develop a good platform to achieve the level in leading global mobility solution provider. Besides that PROTON has the capacity to serve the concept of mobility solution provider because, under PROTON there is more than 1 brand that joint with PROTON such as LOTUS, MIYAZU, POTENZA and others. PROTON also has experienced adoption of different management, business operation for sales and service brand such as Mitsubishi and Honda. With all this, it shows that the Vision is achievable and logically states the ability of PROTON to be at that particular level in future. On the mission statement, it is verified that PROTON mission give and defines the organization as a whole. The word â€Å"Continuously Create† refers to the PROTON activity that continuous and constantly put an effort to deliver better solutions to target recipients which is the customers. A rapid development of new product technology and to rapidly close all issues  related to products failure become one of the major priority by PROTON. It is true that there is quite a lot of complaint on products but most of case solve within the time period set by the company. PROTON continuously develops an efficient and effective process in line with the needs and preference of the customer. For example, the appointment booking for service job done through phone call, reminder of service done by Customer Retention Executive, delivery of cars at the customer doors, and others. The words of â€Å"Innovative† give the definition of new or improved solutions that is beneficial to users or customer and environment. Customer always becomes the first priority to PROTON. In inventing a new te chnology and process, environmental issues and local act remain to be one of the factors to be looks into before any changes made. As at 2015, there is a zero cases Proton involvement in Environmental Issues in Malaysia. All environmental rules and regulation fully complied by PROTON. All PROTON Service equipment being certified with Jabatan Kesihatan dan Keselamatan Pekerja (JKKP) and follow the standard set by the government and local authority. â€Å"Process, Products and Services† refer to the Outcomes from the efforts and initiatives by PROTON. This can be seen by PROTON had impose rapidly training for all staff on the process operation, products knowledge and Service quality in order to ensure a good service provide to the customer. This also to ensure all service provided in line with the statement of â€Å"Win People’s Hearts & Minds† which desirable benefits by all stakeholders, especially to the customers and business partners. The main focus is to produce a quality services to all customers and to retain customer confidence on the service provided. This shows the commitment of PROTON to serve customer, stakeholders, employees and business partners by offering preferred and desired products and excellent services, delivering sustainable profit together with financial growth and sharing successes within the business process. As a conclusion, the Vision and Mission statement done by PROTON is clearly defines its objective and its target. It’s reflecting the management aspirations for PROTON perform in high performance with support of its capabilities and creates the competitive conditions. The mission statement clearly identifies PROTON products service, specifies the customer needs and strategy to fulfil it’s and shows PROTON identities. Furthermore, the Vision statement shows clearly the company future strategic core and direction  where PROTON should be in the future.

The Use of Physical Space in Architecture

Physical infinite The term environment is burdensome to cover with when trying to definite it briefly. However as Caldwell ( 1980 ) assert â€Å"everyone understands the term but cipher is able to specify it† . One needs to be sedulous, both in identify and curtailing it range because it circumscribe anything from the biosphere to the smallest animal ( Ladan, 2009 ) . The environment on an international graduated table is given by the wide scopes of issue being addressed globally. It includes sustainable usage of natural resources, biodiversity, and outstanding natural heritage, protection of the ozone bed, atmosphere, clime, and quality of life, safeguarding of human wellness and therefore doing environmental construction and infinites handiness to all. With a broader position, the environment encompasses the physical, economic, cultural, aesthetic and societal infinites. For this thesis work, accent shall be on the physical infinite, which is an built-in portion of the environment. The physic al infinite here refers to the built environment. The position of designers and metropolis interior decorators are such that the physical environment, to a big extent is referred to as the reinforced environment. Ahianaba, Dimuna and Okungun ( 2008 ) stated that, construct environment is the edifices and infinites between them. There is a relationship and interaction between the edifices and the infinites. The reinforced environment in many developing states is going increasingly worse. Peculiarly Nigeria built environment is in a province of desperation. Harmonizing to World Bank ( 2005 ) , a batch of factors are therefore accountable to the deteriorating position of Nigerian built environment. Unplanned metropolis design attacks, rural-urban migration, rapid urbanisation, regular economic downswings, neglect of urban housework, rot of urban substructures, to call but a few of them. Another important discouraging factor of the Nigerian urban built environment is non-compliance with constructing bye-laws and ordinances. This inatten tiveness consequences continually brings traffic hurt, dehumanisation and overturns the civic pride ( Ahianaba et al. , 2008 ) . Ahianaba et al. , ( 2008 ) further argues that in the formation of any environment, the physical environment is considered as the most of import built-in. The physical environment helps organisms, persons and at big, the public a direct contact and interaction. This interaction and relationship are largely obvious and existent. The relationship between human wellness and the physical infinite can’t be over-emphasised. An improved lodging system with handiness for all characteristics, good sanitation, recreational installations, and environmental hygiene could put a gait for an enabling built environment. The issues of overcrowding, slums development and homesteader colony, all have negative influences on our built environment. One of the focal point of this research work is to grok how a individual quandary i.e. an architectural design in the reinforced environment is keeping the people from really personal to economic domain of life. In an effort to unknot this individual design hindrance, we need to holistically look at the Nigeria built environment. It is non a far fetch truth that developed states are seeking and recommending remodelling of old edifices and increasing handiness characteristics in new edifices to carter for the turning handicapped and elderly public. ( ADA 2010 ; Equality Act 2010 ; ILO 2002 ; UNCRPD 2006 ) . In Nigeria context as enunciated by Ahianba ( 2008 ) , Nigeria built environment is fast decaying. A putrefy built environment can therefore non concentrate on handiness characteristic, her precedence will be how to acquire out the present province of desperation. The Nigeria built environment, deteriorating as a consequence of rural built environment missing proviso of basic comfortss. Where this comfortss are provided, they are unequal and do non work efficaciously due to laxness of relevant Nigeria governments. This has led to high rate of rural-urban migration. The urban infinite, hence has to postulate with overcrowding, substandard lodging system. As a consequence of this migration displacement from rural infinite to urban infinite, force per unit areas are on designers and metropolis interior decorators to carter for the pullulating migrating public. Nigeria characterised of an unplanned physical infinite, has two issues to face with. Suiting the new urban inhabitant and how efficaciously they will take part in the degenerating â€Å"unplanned† urban infinite. Ahianba et al. , ( 2008 ) , posit that â€Å"to better our built environment, there should be proviso of basic infrastructural comfortss, standard lodging, decrease of ove rcrowding, good sanitation and conformity with edifice bye-laws and regulation† Nigeria urban infinite is overcrowded as a consequence of addition in her population and deficient lodging. Lagos, Ibadan, kano, Enugu, Benin metropolis etc. , are Nigeria high denseness urban metropoliss. The ratio of tenancy per room in urban infinites is every bit high as 1:6 or 1:10 ( Federal Offices of Statics, 2001 ) . Overcrowding of Nigeria public infinite causes environmental pollution, deteriorate professional and societal services, destroys the beaches, recreational installations and Parkss, etc. ( Dubos, 1967 ) . The overcrowding issues of our urban infinite restraint the authorities into looking at the how the public infinites could be accessible and functional for her senior citizen as they age. Government range is being limited to how to decide the overcrowding. Disability and handiness as a societal issue ( Gleeson 1993 ; Oliver 1996 ) is a job that has a societal and wellness effects ( Asbell 1975 ; Chombant 1979 ) .The United Nation ( 1975 ) believes that African li ves in brooding and interact in a public infinite that is parlous and a cause of human indignity. This is largely reflected in Nigeria lodging system, which sometimes lacks conventional and natural airing, illuming and sunlight shading devices, buffers to cut down noise pollution and walkers for walk-way way of her people. These issues can’t be over-emphasised, they are indispensable aspect of comfy life. The urban infinites are non planned, it is a merchandise of â€Å"grown† development. It sprang and developed from small towns and trade station. However, they still retain their disused semi-permanent edifices. These are grounds for Nigeria edifices, jumping up randomly, roads are narrow, colony are homesteaders, addition rate of slum development, seamy environment, deficient traffic marks, etc. The hapless airing in Nigerian edifice designs causes her citizens to kip outside during dry season. Their house are either non good cross-ventilated or being block by another house or fencing. World Health Organisation nucleus map includes publicity of good lodging, enabling public infinites which must be environmentally hygienic ( WHO, 1946 ) . Borrowing from Osuide ( 2004 ) , one of the cardinal self-respect, physical and mental wellness, is holding a safe topographic point to brood. Odomudu ( 1987 ) and Sarinen ( 1966 ) argues that a good home and a functional public infinite esca late the well-being and aspiration of the people because the dwelling topographic point and public infinites are where domestic and personal map of each persons takes topographic points. The physical and mental wellness of a individual depends greatly on his or her environment. An person and his or her place are centerpiece of society ( Aihana et al. , 2008 ) . Harmonizing to Ahianba et al. , ( 2008 ) , to accomplish a functional and healthier built environment, on a Nigeria context, based on her present built environment quandary. Creation of aesthetics values, fancify the urban environment, good landscape gardening and ocular satisfying unfastened infinites should be integrated into the design strategy of designers and metropolis interior decorators. Advocating of an equal urban and rural colony, which should be conceptualised in an orderly manner manner of a good professionals be aftering. Government policies should be re-evaluated with a possibility for amendment and new Torahs or Acts of the Apostless emanating and rigorous conformity with bing edifice jurisprudence. Non-compliance with Nigeria constructing bye-laws and ordinances is one of the indispensable factor responsible for Nigeria disintegrating built environment ( Ahianba et al. , 2008 ) . In the sub subdivision of this chapter, it holistically looks at Nigeria constructing by e-laws and ordinances with the position that if the jurisprudence is being purely adhere to, possibly, it will further better the quality of Nigeria built environment and possibly, accessible to all her people. The town planning regulations and Torahs are being violated, which resulted to improper planning of the environment. In the creative activity of a reinforced environment, the issue of lodging is non an exceeding. Salama ( 2006 ) argues that lodging is the platform for the creative activity of life environment for adult male and his family.it cater for his psychological and societal development. The issue of handiness in a adult male ‘s house ca n't be overemphasized because lodging transcend the physical dimension of shelter proviso for adult male but it encompasses the general environment within the edifice, which avail societal services and infrastructural services for optimal satisfaction of the utilizing public. Housing as a entire environment in which adult male lives and turn, should hold handiness characteristic included at the abrasion of the architectural design and non improvised at building or usage phase. The handiness issue therefore correlative between the quality of life and the quality of the physical environment in which 1s lives. Housing signifiers in Nigeria have over the old ages wear a enormous alterations in content, signifier, construction and spacial planning as a consequence of architecture.in our delicate planet, alteration is the lone changeless thing. This changes harmonizing to sa'ad and ogunsusi ( 1996 ) have unerasable effects on the life styles of Nigerians and it therefore affects their orientation of the physical infinite. Housing as a contemplation of cultural, societal and economic values of any society as to be given proper consideration of planning and governmental policy should be geared toward achieving a humane and antiphonal environment. Housing which is a signifier of shelter and a larger portion of any states built environment, is one of the basic necessity of man’s being. Olotuah ( 1997a, 2002a ) argues that the insufficiency of lodging threatens the very footing of his beings. It enhances the public assistance, societal engagement and productiveness of adult male. The United Nation ( 1971 ) adopted that every citizens deserve an entree to adequate lodging without any hinderance whatsoever. The UN ( 1971 ) and by its indorsement in 1976 by 131 other states, was bore out of the fortunes of the demand to better the lodging criterion and insufficiency of the nation’s hapless bulk. Her cardinal purpose is the proviso of appropriate lodging within the economic range of the bulk of the public. Nigeria is a party to this pact but yet Nigeria authorities still finds it difficult to supply an enabling environment for lodging proviso, allow entirely an accessible lodging for her people. ( Olotuah, 2002a ) . The Nigerian authorities lodging programmes have non been able to fit the lifting public. It been left to the custodies of the private sectors. In Nigeria today, the private sector provide the majority of the lodging stock which do non hold handiness characteristic because their designs are non socially oriented but net income oriented ( Olotuah, 2009 ) . For this ground vast of the public will non look out for handiness characteristics in the edifice, instead will see how the lodging stock could be increased to run into the high demand. It is the sentiment of the research worker that every bit much as there is a diminution in the Nigeria lodging stock. Introduction of accessible characteristic in new designs and an effort to reconstruct bing constructions, will non incur an excess cost of building but it will assist advance the United Nations ( 1979 ) acceptance. Furthermore, doing the Nigeria built environment friendlier and less discriminatory to the people of different capablenes ss, which do hold their ain socio-economic values to the economic system of the state. The Nigerian designers have a great function to play in face-lifting of our reinforced environment. The quality of human home ground is a cardinal architectural issue in achieving a humane and antiphonal environment ( Olotuah, 2009 ) . The architectural design must be in such a manner that it improves the quality of the human environment through an orderly development of the human environment.

Gender Segregation in ClassroomÂÂ

Gender segregation in educational institutions has been a subject of great deliberation as well as conflict. Proponents of single-sex schools give religious and orthodox arguments to assert that gender segregation is beneficial for the society on an aggregate level. However, critically evaluating the socio-economic situation of the world at present, one can very rightfully decipher that gender segregation fosters and give rise to gender disparity and inequality which is ultimately detrimental to a society in terms of development and progress. From my initial elucidation on the subject of gender segregation, it can rightly be discerned that I, keeping in view, the contemporary mode of life, is strongly in negation of gender segregation in classroom due to the fact that it gives a great chance for the gender imbalance to thrive and prosper which on the long run is extremely unhealthy for any society in modern times. One of the most important roles that can be played in correcting this state of affair is that of parents. Most of the times, it is no one else but a child's own parents who regards that their daughter/son must be taught separately without the interruption by any student of the opposite gender. Gender differences grow deeper in non-segregated schools and myths regarding men's and women's cognitive differences are highlighted more. One of the strongest reasons that underlie the negation of gender segregation in educational institutions, particularly at an initial school level, is primarily the fostering impact that it has on inequality. In his article entitled â€Å"should boys and girls be taught separately in our schools†, the author Ellie Mulcahy critically analyzes and evaluates both sides of the story; the one supporting gender segregation in schools and the one negating it. According to the author and other experts studying the same dilemma , we can assert that when boys and girls are taught separately in schools, the myths regarding men's and women's cognitive differences are highlighted and inculcated or embedded more strongly and deeply into the young minds of the students. The irony however lies in the fact that these differences have no such concrete basis and are just a form of irrational myths that has long been utilized by male chauvinists to gain advantage over the female specie. The writer further stresses that contrary to the mass believe that gender differences casts an immense impact on learning patterns or preferences, the research has not indicated or proved any such thinking (Mulcahy,2017) . This translates to the at that gender differences originated not biologically but is a result of psychological efforts to devalue a woman and disregard her rights to satisfy male ego. Furthermore, many times parents of the students think it right to segregate girls and boys in relation to the gender myths. David Holthose mentions in his article called â€Å"Gender segregation: Separate but effective?† a statement made by girl and which got affirmation from her parent too saying that girls don't question much when boys are around owing to their shyness. (Holthose,2010). This mindset of parents needs to be altered for good. In addition to this, even if some gender differences occur in learning they can possibly not be generalized and hence are subjected to some individual differences. Therefore, we can assert that co-education helps removing perceived and mythical gender differences in learning processes. Co-education helps avoiding gender stereotypes and the students learn gender fairness. David Holthouse has beautifully dealt with the subject of gender segregation in schools in his 2010 article entitled â€Å"Gender segregation: Separate but effective?†. The entire article is suffused with real life examples and testimonies and thinking of teachers, parents, students and experts and hence provides a holistic understanding of the matter. One of the parents named Mark Jones (his views being cited in the same article) regards that through this gender segregation in schools and supporting this form of education serves to support nothing but irrational ideas about gender coming from the â€Å"dark ages†. Students learn gender fairness when they study in co-educational institutions and the supposed ‘weaker gender' gets a chance to compete. The traditional â€Å"heroic behavior† and â€Å"good character† gets reinforced in single sex schools. (Holthouse,2010). By this we mean that boys in single sex schools are made to learn to be more competitive, aggressive and dominating while girls are trained to be more cooperative shy and quiet. Hence, there is more focus on reinforcing gender stereotypes which ultimately creates noncompetitive and least exposed women in future and it is due to this that the social crimes against women such as domestic violence, sexual violence, and other related crimes against women occur worldwide. The roots of such frustrations against women have a long history and schools serve as an institution where such initial judgments are formed. A stark example is given in the article when the author points out that in one specific 6th grade class in segregated school when boys were asked to brainstorm some words they were all related to action and aggressiveness and the girls were asked to imagine their â€Å"dream wedding cake† thereby indirectly telling them that they must think in the terms of gender. This ultimately keeps them away from developing any form of compassion towards opposite gender. In addition to this, boys took more STEM subjects (Science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and girls were inclined to take softer subjects such as Arts and drama and this is reinforced only in single-sex school setting. Conclusively, we can say safely assume that co-education lead students of both gender compete and remove gender specific expectation and roles.Many parents from the West as well as a lot of Muslim parents regard it good for their children especially the girls to get educated in a segregated school because of the free mixing of girls and boys in coeducational institution which can lead to teenage crimes but since this attitude depends on the nurture, children must not be segregated on the basis of this idea. Eventually they will step into a mix world and this attitude of parents will halt their interpersonal skills.Co-education prepares students to learn how to deal with opposite genders as they ultimately had to face in practical lives. Yet another reason for negating gender segregation is because of the fact that since this world is integrated and a mixture of both genders, students when practically exposed to the world won't find it difficult to settle if they have had a combined education system. Never in this century one could possibly find a road where only women are driving, or a departmental store where only men are shopping, or a club where only men are dancing and hence to survive in the corporate world, gender segregation must be dealt with opposition.The proponents of gender segregation in schools are of the view that because of the difference in the learning patterns of girls and boys, they must be segregated. This view also occurs on an online debating platform called debate.org where in order to support their stance on the subject they were of the view that to reach their maximum potential, girls and boys must be kept separately from each other's influence (Debate.org). In addition to this, the intimacies between girls and boys that occur quite easily in co-educational situations have been cited as one of the arguments against non-segregated schools. Although the latter claim by opposition might be true to some extent as seen in the increase in intimation, it can be controlled by enforcing strict rules and regulations. The former view point of segregating them on the basis of their different learning capabilities serve as a support to the already present gender inequity and discrimination faced by females in work places. Also, once they enter their professional lives, children from segregated schools find it hard to catch up with the mixed environment. According to Emily Martin, Deputy Director of the ACLU Women' Rights Program, gender segregation in schools cannot possibly boost learning by either sex because there has been no proven instance of this claim and the thinking that gender differences in cognitive patterns are there too, has no evidence whatsoever. (Holthhose, 2010. While the intimacy argument can be dealt with the inclusion of strict atmosphere in schools and schooling over maintaining a good distance amongst themselves, the opposition view of gender differences in learning only gives a toll to this social disease of gender inequality.Gender segregation must rightfully be dealt with opposition because it serves as a great propagator of gender inequality, strengthens gender myths regarding differences in the learning pattern, snatches the women right to competition and hence is detrimental to society. Therefore, coeducation must be supported so that gender integration and an ultimate success can be achieved.In the light of above arguments, it can be rightfully discerned that in order to uproot the social vices such as gender inequality and foster a modern growth and improvement in our societies, gender segregation in schools must be opposed. Since parents form a great part of their children's lives, they must treat their children openly and attend workshops or lectures where both can get a chance to work out the conflicts regarding this and enjoy the eventual enlightenment and benefits of it.ReferencesShould schools be segregated by gender? (n.d.). Retrieved February 08, 2018, from http://www.debate.org/opinions/should-schools-be-segregated-by-genderHolthouse, D. (2010). Gender Segregation: Separate but Effective? Teaching Tolerence Issue 36.Retrived from: https://www.tolerance.org/magazine/spring-2010/gender-segregation-separate-but-effectiveMulchay,E.(2017). Should boys and girls be taught separately in our schools? The Guardian ,Opinions. Retrieved from: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/jul/14/gender-segregation-state-schools-disaster-damage-children