Of Mice and Men Relationships

The novel ‘Of mice and Men’ is written by John Steinbeck, set in the 1930’s, America, during the Great Depression. The theme of the novel is of two men (George and Lennie)   Steinbeck introduces the two characters, George and Lennie, in the opening section of the novel. From this dialogue-â€Å"You drink some, George†- the reader is able to establish an understanding of the two characters’ relationship. One stayed behind the other’, is the first indication that one take more of a lead in the relationship than the other, and more evidence to support this: ‘Lennie imitated him exactly’. Steinbeck goes on to describe the first man to be ‘small and quick’, whereas ‘behind him walked his opposite, a huge man’. It would be thought the larger man would lead, to protect. The two men are described as ‘Both were dressed in denim trousers and in denim coats†¦ and both carried tight blanket rolls’ .This shows they are similar in the way they are both itinerant workers. However they differ with appearance: George is explained to have ‘sharp features’, and Lennie to be his opposite ‘shapeless of face’. Steinbeck uses their appearance to show how completely different they are with everything, George has a sharp, quick mind, while on the other hand Lennie is rather simple minded. Steinbeck presents George and Lennie’s relationship very much like that of a father and sons.George looks after Lennie’s work card as George knows Lennie well enough not to trust him with it: â€Å"think I’d let you carry your own work card? † George also looks out for Lennie and tries to protect him- ‘you never oughta drink water when it ain’t running’, which is evidence to show he is like a father, advising Lennie. Steinbeck emphasises the theme of George and Lennie being like a father and son further by George praising Lennie to build Lennie’s self esteem: â€Å"Good boy, that’s it†.

Cold as Ice vs. Hot as Hell Essay

â€Å"Cold as Ice vs. hot as hell† is a metaphor that is applied to our daily lives. At times we are not in its control. The following metaphors described, â€Å"Cold as ice vs. hot as hell† as a characteristic or personality. Allow me to explain the differences between both of the following metaphors meanings. It is with in our nature to remain either calm or peaceful, yet at times we have the most complex mental personalities. This metaphor would be an alteration of â€Å"cold as ice vs. hot as hell of types of personalities and characteristics in them. For example: anger, temper, serenity and tranquility. The outcome of these traits would be a â€Å"cold as ice vs. hot as hell† defining two metaphors in our daily lives struggles. â€Å"Cold as Ice† is a metaphor that is practically in people that remain calm at all times. There are those who experience depression and still remain in a calm state of mind. Imagine your daily routine, and then suddenly something catastrophic occurs, everyone becomes temperamental and violent. These individuals remain calm, focus and open minded to thoughts and opinions. This enables people to think outside of the box and undertake various mental explorations. Being aware there are no limits to our thinking process. The hypothesis result is being successful in life as long you put your mind to it in an environment surrounded of positive people. When you hear or observe positive reinforcement we tend to rationalize, resulting to be more conscious of our surroundings, allowing us to maintain a calm state of mind. â€Å"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.† (Helen Keller) A negative characteristic is someone that was raised in a different perspective in life, violence, hate and no love. Being around angry people, full of resentment are negative qualities of a pessimistic person. Is it possible this could be someone who lives by the metaphor, â€Å"hot as hell† always on a short fuse? Could this be a form of adversity to keep them from being happy with him or herself, and other people? For example those people who are going through depression, suicidal thoughts, and many ups and downs in day-to-day activities, which can be difficult. The inability to communicate with others and on a constant hot temper may think that life is not worth living. A constant frustration and pressure will not allow them to be happy. One moment they are happy and another they are on a fuse waiting to explode. Most people that are angry get caught up with an overwhelming of emotions. We are so engaged in anger our reasoning will not work. When anger is responded with an ger it will only make the problem escalate. A wise man said the following â€Å"Pessimist one who, when he has the choice of two evils, chooses both.† (Oscar Wilde) Many individuals are brought up with different perception in life. As infants we demonstrate our personality through love and always wanting attention. Through parental guidance we leave our mothers womb not knowing what is to come of our beliefs and manners. We are also informed that life is to be cherished and to not take life for granted. Honestly we all have same level of â€Å"cold as ice vs. hot as hell†. We all have our moments of struggles to remain calm. Some may come as fighting a profound addiction of serenity. From the day that we are born till the day we pass, everyone will always have to face the struggles and in the process we encounter these metaphors. Lets all maintain peace on earth and tranquility among humanity. World peace is produced to make the world a better place to live in; this phrase must be cherished forever. REFERENCES Keller, H. ( Optimism is the faith: Para 2. Retrieved October 27, 2012 http://bibleversesbytopic.com/quotes/optimism..html Wilde, O. Pessimist Para 3 Retrieved October 27, 2012 http://wisdomquotes.com/quote/oscar-wilde-5.html

The Middle Ground Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Middle Ground - Assignment Example One plans to propose a resolution to the conflict, even in theoretical means, as disputing parties, particularly China, signify a selfish approach by indicating suggested resolution from the international organization that is assigned to resolve territorial disputes using the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). In this regard, one hopes that the reader would understand the arguments posed by each party and decide for themselves, other alternative courses of action that would assist in resolving the dispute. 2) What did you learn from completing this assignment? Did you experience a new understanding of the topic? Did you change your perspective after completing the research? One learned that there are some issues or controversies that are not simple and that would require some form of third party mediation to resolve. However, in this case, it is more complex since China explicitly indicated refusal to accept third party resolutions to the dilemma. As a result, one definitely experienced greater depth in understanding the topic and enabled one to gain increased appreciation for conflict negotiations or resolving issues using middle ground concepts. 3) What difficulties did you encounter during the research, writing, or editing phases of the assignment? The difficulties encountered during the process were trying to locate authoritative information on the topic being researched and to find a balanced discourse that would present both sides of the arguments. There were also some challenges in trying to fit the arguments into the specified word count and therefore observe quality in writing. Finally, there was extreme difficulty in proposing a middle ground solution because of China’s stance on the issue. 4) What did you enjoy about this assignment? The assignment proved to be very enlightening and informative in terms of the knowledge gained from the research. One learned to use skills in research, writing and editing to ensure that the f inal structure would comply with the needed requirements. Therefore, the assignment was an opportunity for both personal and professional growth. 5) What made you decide to write about this particular topic? Is this a topic that you are discussing in another course? Is this a topic that concerns you in particular? The topic was decided on due to its current nature and the controversial issues that emerged. Likewise, one could note that since this is a territorial dispute between China and the Philippines, one might conclude that other countries are not, in any way, affected by the issues. However, one believes that its immediate resolution would benefit, not only these countries, but others who trade and inter-relate with them in any way. 6) Is there anything else you would like for me to know before reading your essay? None anymore, except that this middle ground essay is an effective way of enhancing skills in both thinking (analytical) and writing and is therefore a rewarding end eavor. The Middle Ground Essay Introduction and Claim The topic to be discussed, evaluated and expounded on is the current maritime and territorial dispute over Scarborough Shoal by two countries: China and the Philippines. According to the website Disputed Territories, â€Å"the Philippines controls and runs this group, but China (People's Republic of China) lays claim to it, as part of its Paracels, Spratlys, and Zhongsha Islands Authority, and Taiwan (Republic of China) expresses sovereignty too, in the context of being the 'true ruler of China'† (Disputed Territories par. 1). As disclosed by BBC News Asia, â€Å"China's claim includes almost the entire South China Sea, well into what the UN Convention on the Law

The effects of globalization on design (brand globalization and the Essay

The effects of globalization on design (brand globalization and the design industry) - Essay Example To have a consistent and definite visibility the companies require having a design that represents them. Designing a logo requires a lot of research. The designing of a logo is not an area of art where the creativity has to take over. Designing a logo is a combination of creativity and logic. A company must have a clear idea about how they want to position themselves in the market. Not all the key features of the company can be represented by the logo, so the company especially the designers have to decide which feature they want to highlight in their logo. A logo is not just a symbol it is a symbol which makes the company statement with the help of visual icon. Many companies like Nike, Microsoft and Coke are known for their logo design. They have been successful in positioning themselves in the global market with the help of their logo design. Logo design also wins the company the global recognition. This current trend of global branding with the help of logo design has placed a lo t of responsibility on the design industry. It becomes one of the main services for the design industry to design logos that help companies to expand. The design industries often have to do extensive research on the product of their clients and their area of operations. This helps them to design a logo and the promotion message for their clients which are effective. Designing a logo indeed plays an important role in the global branding of the company. 1 Globalisation and Design Globalisation is interconnection of countries economically. Globalisation has made all the companies realise that they must follow marketing strategies that are applicable globally. To enter foreign country a company must be very careful regarding the branding strategy followed by them. In global arena to establish a brand that is recognised by all requires a lot of thought process. Companies today are aware that they have to go global sometime during their expansion and chalk out their strategies accordingly . Consistent brand recognition all over the world is the main aim of all the companies. To design a logo and company message the design industry has to do a lot of research. Especially on the visual impact it has on the customers worldwide. The landscape has changed in the world of branding due to globalisation. According to experts brand must have a global reach. Brand visibility is a must for all companies who want to trade across the borders.2 However some brands do get advantage of being regional. The regional identity gives a lot of brand the ability to operate successfully in their nation. Consumers do recognise these brands as national brands and this gives them an added advantage. On the other hand to survive in international market these brands must have a global appeal. A new middle class has emerged in the BRIC nations namely, Brazil, Russia, India and China. This new customer base has deep pockets and for companies to target them a global approach is required. The design industry has to work on the presentation of these companies in such a way that all these countries feel included. Most companies try to break away from their regional identity to have a global appeal. Coke and Pepsi are the best example they always try to have a global approach .However, there are few companies like Dominos that do promote themselves globally with their regional

Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures - Essay Example For a private disposal system seeking approval by a local authority, the organization must provide FSIS with the approval letter from the authority upon request. 1 A provision of clean running water that abides by the National Primary Drinking water convention(40 CFR part 141), at a required pressure and appropriate temperature must be provided in the necessary areas ( for cleaning rooms and equipment, packaging materials, for processing products and for workers hygienic facilities, etc). If the organization source its water from the Municipal, then it must provide a water report issued under the authority of the local health agency certifying to the portability of the water delivery to FSIS upon request. And if the organization uses water from a private source then it must hand in the documentation to the FSIS upon request, certifying the portability of water supply that has been renewed within a six-month duration. 2) Ice, water and liquid smoke solutions used in food production may be reused for the same function, provide that they are sanitized from fecal coliform organism, pathogenic organisms and also minimization of other chemical, physical, and microbiological infectivity to avoid product adulteration. 3)Water, ice, and solutions used to wash unprocessed products may be recycled for the same functions provided that caution is taken to minimize chemical, physical and microbiological contagion for the prevention of product contamination. Do not use recycled materials that has contacted raw materials in a finished product. 4) Reconditioned water that has no contact with human waste and has been treated by an onsite highly developed sewer treatment unit may be used on raw product, except in inedible and edible production areas, and product formulation provide that caution is taken to ensure that prescribed criteria in National Primary Drinking Water regulations Act

Business Strategy - IKEA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Business Strategy - IKEA - Essay Example As such, we as individuals and the organizations that utilize our services need to show collective responsibility towards each and every aspect of our society. One of the best ways this can be achieved is by continuing to use resources and developing better processes for managing our businesses, albeit in an efficient manner without causing any harmful impact on the environment and by foreseeing how best we can preserve our economy and nature for our future generations. IKEA is one such organization that has been demonstrating corporate social responsibility over a long period. The company is popular worldwide for selling low-cost furniture across outlets around the globe. The range of products produced by IKEA span every possible thing that can be used in a home from kitchens and draw rooms to bathrooms and bedrooms. IKEA today has sales in over 36 countries and looks all set to expand into 6 other countries in the near future (Gerald S. Albaum, Edwin Duerr, Jesper Strandskov, 2005). The present case study is an attempt at studying the success behind IKEA and studying the reason behind what has enabled it to become the largest furniture company in the world. The study is deemed important as IKEA has come to dominate the furniture world within a short span of 60 years and the turnover of the company simply suggests the existence of a very strong business model and supporting processes that aid in generating high revenue. The study will concentrate on evaluating the different aspects of IKEA’s operations and performance figures against a set of six models that will attempt to answer a variety of questions. The current strategic position will be ascertained by using the Porters generic strategies and the Bowman’s clock models.

Factors affecting quality of MRI image.Benefits of circular or square Essay

Factors affecting quality of MRI image.Benefits of circular or square spiral EPI methods - Essay Example For example, if a spin is exposed to a magnetic field different from the expected value due to magnetic susceptibility, geometric distortions will be seen from the MRI image (Reinsberg, Doran, Charles-Edwards, and Leach, 2005). In particular, an increased spin produces MRI signals of low intensity, while high magnetic susceptibility areas are seen as areas of total signal loss (Zhou and Gullapalli, 2006). Figure 1 shows an example of metallic susceptibility distortions in the presence of metallic implants. Magnetic susceptibility In magnetic resonance imaging, tissues are temporarily magnetized by the large magnetic field that the imaged subject is exposed to, with the extent of magnetization varying among tissues that differ in magnetic susceptibility. For example, relative to other tissues, air and bone are less susceptible to magnetization. On the other hand, metallic implants have high magnetic susceptibility as compared to the body tissues. These differences in magnetic suscepti bility cause field inhomogeneity, especially in tissue boundaries, particularly air-tissue and bone-soft tissue boundaries (Zhou and Gullapalli, 2006). That is why magnetic susceptibility distortions are sometimes seen in such boundaries, like the sinuses (Reinsberg, Doran, Charles-Edwards, and Leach, 2005). 1. Discuss various methods to correct for magnetic susceptibility distortions, while maintaining a good EPI image. ... a.) Parameters that can optimize EPI image ESP can be decreased through the use of powerful gradients, such as increased gradient slew rate (~20, 000 T/m/s), increased maximum amplitude (350 mT/m), increased rise time rate, increased accuracy, decreased eddy currents, increased voltage, and decreased field strength. In addition, these parameters decrease signal-to-noise ratio. Meanwhile, a decreased ESP results to a smaller total train length time. In fact, it has been estimated that decreasing ESP to 40 ms limits the distortion to only one pixel wide. Similarly, increased data gathering via decreased frequency- and phase encoding steps and ramp sampling, fast analogue to digital converters and large receiver bandwidth decrease the time in which phase errors can accumulate (McMahon, 2012). On the other hand, phase and read directions can be swapped, so that the phase encoding gradient is along the same axis as susceptibility gradients. Although this may not totally prevent distortion , it shows the image in a more presentable and understandable manner (McMahon, 2012; Zhou and Gullapalli, 2006). Figure 2 shows the decrease in magnetic susceptibility upon converting from left-right phase encoding to anterior-posterior phase encoding. Other ways to minimize magnetic susceptibility distortions include decreasing the resolution, use of SE sequence, increased acquisition matrix and proper shimming before image acquisition. It should be noted, however, that heating of nearby tissues can occur when using fast SE acquisition with a high bandwidth to decrease magnetic susceptibility distortions resulting from metallic implants (Zhou and Gullapalli, 2006). b) Chain of consequences after increasing the receiver bandwidth Receiver bandwidth is a

Marketing Strategy of Coffee Making Equipment Manufacturers in China Assignment

Marketing Strategy of Coffee Making Equipment Manufacturers in China - Assignment Example â€Å"In the 1990s, the main consumers of roasted coffee in China were expatriates. Germans wanted one kind of roast, Italians wanted it another way and so on, making it hard for a roaster to find one blend to please all†.  The above-mentioned statement bears testimony to the fact that the market in China has braced itself for the coffee boom. But to fully know the market thereof such equipment, there is a need to conduct proper market research there as well.This research should be conducted using both primary and secondary sources. The data needs to be collected and collated so that we could gauge the market for such research.The following primary sources could be used: questionnaires, interviews, consumer panels, stock counting, observation.All of these aforementioned types of primary sources have their own advantages and disadvantages. The main advantages are:- They elicit direct responses.- They provide accurate data. - They give the researchers a chance to have direct i nteraction with the target market.The main disadvantages are:- They might be biased.- Costly to conduct.- Difficult in terms of accessibility.- They might give one a one-sided picture of things.The secondary sources that are also called the ‘desk research’ methods include the following: newspapers and magazines, government reports, official statistics, specialist journals.The main advantages of such a method are fewer costs involved, fewer hassles, information is authenticated, easy accessibility. The main drawbacks are:- Data might be biased.- It could be out-dated.

Telecommunication systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Telecommunication systems - Essay Example If telephone lines are used then serial access program are used to enable the communication of the computer with telephone line. Because the firm employees require voice transmission voIP system is necessary, this system helps set up and separate calls into audio codec’s. The speech is encoded to allow transmission over the IP network as an audio stream (Haykin, 2001). They help in data transfer, i.e. data reception and transmission between the terminus equipment. They enable in conversion of data from analogue to digital and vice versa, modems, microwave links, wireless link, repeaters hubs are all used in computer networking to enable data transfer. In the case of the medium sized firm modems and hubs can be used. This refers to the path/ medium used for data transmission. Most common data communication channels are copper wires, fiber optic cables, coaxial cable and microwave links. The most common types of communication channels are the simplex communication and duplex communication. This is the control software present in all computers and helps in controlling network functions and activities. In the case of the medium sized firm this will include application software to be used is run on the application server such as java application server, Microsoft platforms, Zend platforms etc. for the firm to implement WAN, application web server which accept HTTP program request from the user has to be used. web severs perform authentication, handling of file static and dynamic content, HTTP support through encrypted connections, data compression for transmission, virtual hosting bandwidth throttling among other functions. Exchange server such as the Microsoft exchange server aids in electronic mail exchange, support for web and mobile programs. The help in interconnecting computers within a small area. E.g. in this case the company with 20 – 50 employees, if all the employees have computers, these computers can be interlinked

Plato - Understanding Essay Example for Free

Plato Understanding Essay Knowledge and opinion essentially form the entire dialogue of Plato’s Meno. Throughout the dialogue Socrates and Meno are on the search for whether virtue can be taught. From Socrates and Meno’s search for virtue, the importance of understanding knowledge and opinion becomes evident. Socrates and Meno’s search for virtue results in three themes. These themes are the relationship of knowledge, opinion and the helpful importance of teaching. Understanding knowledge, opinion and teaching’s importance help create the understanding of why knowledge is beneficial and pursued in life. Knowledge, according to Socrates, is recollection. Socrates shows this by saying, As the whole of nature is akin, and the soul has learned everything, nothing prevents a man, after recalling one thing only—a process men call learning—discovering everything else for himself, if he is brave and does not tire of the search, for searching and learning are, as a whole, recollection (81d). Teachers play a role in developing knowledge so it can become recallable. Today almost every person in this world in one way or another is schooled and taught things by a teacher. Years continue to go by with teachers playing an impact in almost everyone’s lives because they are benefiting people’s growth in knowledge. Teachers not only help us gain knowledge but even with things that cannot be taught, teachers can still play a role. In the Meno it is concluded that virtue is one of those things that cannot be taught. Teachers are also actually helpful in the pursuit of things that cannot be taught. Different ways teachers can help in the pursuit of knowledge of things that cannot be taught is by asking questions, or encouraging questions to be asked. What this allows is those to pursue knowledge faster and more successfully than they would in most cases alone. So regardless whether it is something that can be taught or not, teachers play a key role in gaining knowledge. Gaining knowledge is something that is desired by each one of us. All of us because of our human nature have a desire to know things. Sometimes that desire is so we can feel superior to another, sometimes it is to answer ones own questions about life itself, and sometimes it is to simply better ones everyday life. From these desires of wanting to know things it is obvious we as humans desire knowledge. But where exactly does this desire to know come from? This desire stems from opinion. Humans are opinionated and often feel very strongly about one’s opinions. Knowledge and opinion relate and there is a key difference essential to understanding knowledge. As Socrates pointed out knowledge is understood to be something that is true and can be recalled upon over and over knowing it is always true. However, the ability to be recallable is where opinion differs from knowledge. Opinions can in fact be true (true opinion) and be as useful as knowledge; however, there remains one distinct difference between the two. That difference is opinions can leave one’s mind. Opinions need to become tied down and become knowledge to avoid being forgotten. Socrates shows through an example of what happens if opinions are not tied down. Socrates refers to a beautiful work of Daedalus to show the importance of knowledge. Socrates explains that opinions if true are good only as long as they hang around in one’s mind. As soon as the true opinion escapes one’s mind it is no longer valuable. So if Socrates can tie the beautiful work of Daedalus it becomes more valuable just as knowledge becomes more valuable than true opinion because it is tied down forever with no potential of being forgotten (98a). Understanding this difference between knowledge and opinion is essential because it gives the reason as to why knowledge is pursued. Besides knowledge and opinion’s difference they also relate to one another in the pursuit of knowledge. Acquiring knowledge begins with opinions that are gained through different experiences. Before opinions become knowledge they can be stirred up through questions. In the Meno, Socrates does a demonstration that stirs up different opinions in a slave boy. Socrates asks the boy different questions and because of the questions asked the boy actually gets the questions correct without any knowledge of the answers. This example from the text shows two things regarding knowledge. First, this example shows that opinion precedes knowledge. The slave boy had true opinions about the questions Socrates was asking because he was answering correctly, but he did not have knowledge yet. Secondly, this example shows how teachers, in this case Socrates, help the pursuit of knowledge. By asking the proper questions opinions can be stirred up and start to become knowledge. When opinions are true they can become knowledge through an account of reason or proof that the opinion is indeed the truth. Once this happens the opinion turns into knowledge and that knowledge will now remain with no threat of being lost. Acquiring knowledge is essential in life and the pursuit of knowledge is in human nature. Throughout our entire lives knowledge is constantly pursued. Understanding knowledge and opinion’s relationship allows this to be reasoned. With knowledge being distinguished from true opinion by being recallable teachers play an important role. Teachers help by asking the right questions which then speeds up the knowledge gaining process. So with these three relationships it is more understood as why knowledge is beneficial and constantly pursued through life.

Market Entry Strategy: Analysis Of Wal-Mart In India

Market Entry Strategy: Analysis Of Wal-Mart In India Generally in formulating a plan the business turns to the choice, in the situation whenever the object is to locate a market which would make their business money spinning or in the situation a new market is to be ventured into. At times when there is no plan of action, venturing into an untapped market will seem tricky, thus recognized the term market entry. According to Cinco (2003) the vendor must be able to differentiate their supply ways that might be beneficial either to the company or to the nature of alternatives it can be able to add value. So to increase its market share, the vendor must have competitive sustainable benefits, the time to build-up their proposal and other resources. In the era of competition vender must posses some attributes that are hard for competitors to copy (Barney, 1991). For the companies that are aspiring towards entering a foreign market, there are various modes that could be employed for the gaining of access. They are as follows Licensing Exporting Franchising Joint ventures or strategic alliances Establishing a subsidiary that is wholly owned Exporting This refers to the transferring of the services or production over the boundaries of the nations and the majority of the companies initiate their plans of expansion into another nation by means of this process of international expansion by exporting the goods produced in abundance and best quality and then they move on to follow other available strategies to gain their entry and make their presence felt stronger. There are many advantages that are associated with the process of exporting like the nation that is planning to gain access to a foreign market can control production by means of maintaining the facilities of production at the home land itself and then can transport the services or products to other nations (Miller, 1998). Licensing This is nothing but a arrangement by means of which the international company who is naturally the licensor offers the company where it plans to enter or the licensee one among the following Rights of trademark Rights of patent Copyrights Know how on the product and its associated processing Any of the above would be offered to the nation in exchange for a payment from the country who buys it or a specific performance Following are the list of things paid or offered by the nation that has bought the rights from the other nation Agree to produce the service or the product which any one of the above rights have been bought Agree for marketing the product or service in an area that has been already assigned Agree to pay money to the nation that has sold the license that is proportional to the volume of sales that is obtained by selling the product as royalty (Minor et al, 1991) Franchising This refers to an agreement through which the franchiser is involved in the selling of the rights of the product so that the name of the brand can be used by the franchisee and in return, a payment of a big sum of money can be made. Along with this the profit gained by the franchisee could be shared with that of the franchiser. This mode of gaining market entry has been used by the companies involved in marketing and services whereas the mode of licensing is used by the companies involved in marketing (Mintzberg and Quinn, 1992) Strategic alliances and joint ventures The concept of forming strategic alliances and the formation of combined ventures are clubbed together since the formation of strategic alliances is rather weaker than that of the joint ventures. Hence we can define a strategic alliance as the agreements that are formed between the participating firms so that the activities of value chain of the companies could be aggregated for the gaining of advantage in competitive terms. In majority of the cases the strategic alliances are formed between two concerns that are equal competitors in the same field. But a joint venture is nothing but a venture that is formed between a foreign firm with that of a national firm and in this alliance, the foreign firm would have sufficient equity stake in order to have a strong hold on the management functions but still not a complete hold so that it can have full domination of the venture at hand. Hence the equity share possessed by the international firm could be varied and this can range from 10 to 90 percent, but normally this would be from 25 to 70 percent (Johnson and Scholes, 1999). Wholly owned subsidiary This is nothing but a mode of entry where the company that initiated has a total and complete ownership of the stock possessed by the subsidiary. This type of wholly owned subsidiary could be set up by the process of acquisition or by the process of setting up a wholly new entity. The advantages of establishing a wholly owned subsidiary is many. In case if the company possesses a lot of competitive advantage in terms of its technical background, it can have a 100 percent hold on it and hence there is no control exerted by any external forces. A wholly owned subsidiary also helps in benefitting greatly from the process of strategic co-ordination at the global level. Another advantage of this system is that a company can enjoy the total benefits offered by the economies of location and also from that of the experience curve effects (Keegan and Green, 1997) The retailing giant Wal-Mart has been successful in the obtaining of a toehold in the sector of retail in India by means of adopting the mode of entry as a joint venture and has had a significant impact on the traditional system of retail existing already in India. Importance of market entry strategies There are many studies existing to show that the position of first entry into market provides the entrant with a lot of advantages in terms of stock prices, sustenance and other events as well. But there are chances of success for the other people who enter later as well because they can adopt specific strategies in the market that would help them for positioning themselves better. When some of the pioneering industries have attained the present status, eventually they become very much self-satisfied and would not be able to fulfill the dynamic and ever increasing demands that are posed by the market place. Hence the market entry strategies and the strategies adopted to gain a cutting edge in the market is greatly dependant on the market atmosphere and also on the range of players who exist in the market and their strategic positioning as well (Kanagal, 2006). Hence to maintain the leading position in the market, the pioneer industries should always be prepared to react to the change s occurring and also to expect the possible threats and the new entries. For instance, a leading player can react to the new entries by bringing about reductions in price and thereby decreasing the business value for the new entries. Other modes of reacting are by taking control over the major channels of distribution. Hence a comprehensive perception of the strategies of defense in the market along with a good timing sense complemented by a fool proof decision making plans will make the entry into markets and tackling the customers easier for the entrant (Evans, 2008). Overview of Emerging Economies: BRIC Nations According to World bank (2010) emerging economy is the term given economies or nations having middle to low per capita income. Around 20%of world economy and about 80% and about 80% of world population is represented by such emerging market economies (Burt et al, 2002). BRIC is a short form utilized to represent the speedily developing economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China. Goldman Sachs (2008) has identified BRIC nations is leading world economies by 2050. Data collected on BRIC nations shows that put together BRIC nations have a GDP of 15.435 trillion dollars, 25% of total land and about 40% of world population. RETAIL MARKET IN INDIA: A Scenario The Indian retail industry is still in the embryonic state. This segment has not been paid any attention post Indian Independence (1947). The extent and size and growing populace all are factors which offer an assurance for the retailing sector to develop in the future. The retail setting of India has conventionally centered on small, mom-pop shops which are located next to the residences of people. People have the facility to make payments on a monthly basis in such shops apart from interacting personally with the proprietors. Such shops are also endorsed by committees formed by people living in the localities. Services such as courier pick up and local promotions are facilities provided complementary by the stores. If people face a crisis they may request the proprietors to open the shops even when it is night time (Berman and Evans 2006). Indians usually prefer such stores. The segment pertaining to retailing is not structured and very few rules are followed by the stores. Such st ores comprise of nearly 92% of the total retail shops in the country. The residual 8% organized stores have emerged in the 2-3 years gone by thanks to ever-growing economy and opening up of the Indian economy.  A study undertaken by Market Graph (Research Firm based in New Delhi, India), in June 2008 concluded that the value of trade in India was around INR 12,000 Bn. As per the report it was stated this segment is the second largest provider of jobs for people of the country (Covey 2005) . The retail segment of India is imbalanced as the total market share of ordered retailers is only around 2% according to Bill and Bill (2004). The scenario was the same even in developed nations initially in the previous century; the materialization of huge retail stores including Wal Mart, Sears and McDonalds was the reason of quick development of the structured retail and increasing merging of the retail business in the advanced countries. It is the quick increasing incomes and changes occurring in the way people live which is transforming and encouraging the development of the structured retailing in the West (Kotler, 2004). The structured retail sector in India also shows promise as the purchasing power of Indians has increased while the rapidly growing middle class imitates the Western existence (Srivastava, 2007). Thanks to the tremendous growth of the Indian economy (2002-2008), individuals have more money to spend and they now expect to increase their standard of living. This was a reason for large renowned Indian businesses to venture in the retail business. During 2007-2008, around 33000 retail shops found their way in the country. Products offered by such shops included garments, provisions, fruits and vegetables, Electronics Auto. The next 4-5 years will see several new stores being introduced in the country. This phase of retail development is likely to recede by 2014; the market leaders will be those who are successful and have accurate skills related to operations in this sector. Retail stores who fail to follow suitable strategies related to marketing and consumer satisfaction will be forced to shut shop. The sales growth of US$ 392.63 billion in 2011 to US$ 674.37 billion has been forecasted in India Retail Report (BMI, 2011). Ever increasing upper class consumer base coupled with increase in construction of organized retail infrastructure have been identified as key factors behind its growth. McKinsey and Co (2010) has reported and expected increase from 5% to 14-18 % in organized retail market, which is expected to reach US$ 450 billion by 2015. Regulations and relaxations of the Indian market The business environment in India was characterized by an atmosphere that has been regulated to a high degree by a system of license that is pervasive and by tariff barriers that are high and this was the case till the year 1991. In the year 1991, there have been many sweeping reforms introduced by the Indian government and the other succeeding governments have also consistently operated so that the whole course of the economy of India has undergone a radical change (Bajpai and Sachs, 1999). The nation of India is one of the largest economies next only to China in the continent of Asia. There are a large number of investors from the foreign nations who are being attracted to India particular in the sector of retail. This trend has been happening ever since the market in India was subject to the processes of liberalization as well as privatization (Das, 2001). The nation is now being looked upon as a thriving market for the investment purposes in spite of the hassles in the bureaucracy and also shortcomings in the facilities and infrastructure in India. The nation also presents with a huge capacity for investment from abroad and the nation has realized this and hence in keeping with this trend, the nation is encouraging the entry of players from that of the foreign market. Also the nation also uses English language as the medium of communication for the business purposes, governmental policies and administrative issues and these factors offer a friendly environment for th e investors. Hence any company that aspires to be a leader in the global arena cannot afford to ignore India which is one among the emerging nations of the world (Bajpai, Jian and Sachs, 1997). In the present scenario India experiences the fresh spirit of economic freedom that is helping the nation to introduce changes that are far reaching and helping it to unleash the great capacity of the economy of India. An array of reforms have been introduced that helped in the additional deregulation and stimulation of foreign investment and these steps have pulled the nation to the forefront in the row of leading international players (Sreejith and Raj, 2007). Some of the obvious strengths possessed by India are the skills in information technology and soft wares and the huge capacity for e-commerce. There also exists a strengthened consensus from the political arena in the concept of economic liberalization at the level of central government and state governments (Das, 2001). These combined factors promises a continued and increasing strength in the policies pertaining to the investors in a friendly manner and have led to the formation of opportunities in ample amounts for the inv estors at the foreign and the domestic level. Overview of the Indian retail Industry The industry of retail in India is divided in to unorganized and organized sectors and the activities of trading that are being undertaken by the retailers who are licensed and are liable to pay taxes like the sales and income tax is called as organized retailing. The organized retailing is inclusive of the hypermarkets that are backed by the corporate and the chains of retail and the businesses in retail that are being owned privately. Retailing that is not organized is inclusive of the formats of retailing that is of low cost. This is inclusive of the kirana shops that is located in the local areas, general stores that are manned by the owners and the beedi or paan shops, stores of convenience and the carts pulled by hand, the vendors on the pavement etc. there are new trends coming up in the retail scenario of India and this sector has a rate of growth of over 45 percent which amounts to the three year growth rate and hence it is one of the sectors with rapid growth among all the other sectors (India Retail, 2008). There are new and innovative formats like the departmental stores that have come up and this is replacing the specialty stores, supermarkets, hypermarkets etc. Particularly in the metros, malls in the western style have started appearing and these malls are now spreading out to cities in the second rung and these promise the consumers in India a shopping experience that is unparalleled (Johnson Tellis 2007). There is a high degree of fragmentation in the retail sector of India because over 97 percent of the businesses being run in the country is by the retailers who are not organized. Hence organized retailing in India is still at its infancy even though there are lot of attempts that are being made to bring an increase in its relative proportion to over 10 percent by the end of the year 2010. This would also bring about tremendous opportunities for the aspiring young players. This sector also provides the largest resource for employment next onl y to the agricultural sector and also is penetrated deeply in to the rural parts of India. This sector is also involved in the generation of over 10 percent of the total GDP of India (Das, 2006). FDI in the Indian Retail According to Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP, 2010) India had an inflow of US$ 1,392 million in October 2010 through FDI. In total US$ 122.68 billion has been channeled in to India from April 200o to October 2010. Decision to implement consolidated FDI policy has provided India with a respected position as a key partner in trade on international scale. Policy allows foreign investor to their funds through automatic route, do not mandate any permission prior to investment from the government of India (IBEF, 2010). In a survey Earnest Youngs 2010 have ranked India as 4th most attractive destination to invest. Similar results have been published in various repots like UK Trade and Investments, Japan Bank for International Cooperation and United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCAD), which have ranked India as second most lucrative destination following China in next three years (IBEF , 2010). As mentioned earlier the retail sector in India has been kept closed for the foreigners so that the means of livelihood of over 15million kirana store owners and the small shop owners would be safe guarded. It has now allowed only 51 percent of direct investment when it comes to retailing with single brands with the proper permission obtained from the Indian government. In the sector of whole sale trading also there is foreign direct investment allowed. The retailers with single brands like Fendi, Nike, Louis Vuitton and Toyota can have their own operations in India. There is another company called Metro which now has its operations by means of trading on a whole sale basis. There are also options being invited by the policy makers in such a way that the interests of the retail community at the local level are also not affected (Bajpai and Sachs, 2000). The Indian government is also considering the opening of the retailing for sports goods, stationery items, electronic goods, equipme nt for building etc. But the tough part for the government is that it has to maintain the delicate balance and a equal space for all the players. Hence due to the FDI policy that permits over 51 percent of one brand has made options for entering of Nike which sells foot wears, Lladro that is involved with porcelain items, Louis Vuitton that sells watches, textiles, shoes, accessories for travel, etc, Damro that sells furnitures, Fendi that sells luxury goods, Argenterie Greggio that is involved in the selling of cutlery, gifts and silverwares and the retail trader of Cars- Toyota. The successful entry of these players is also attracting others into the Indian market like a luxury industry in France that plans to cover the domestic luxury segment (Guruswamy, 2005). Major players in the Indian retail industry There has been tremendous growth in the retail sector of India with players like Ambanis, ITC, Bharti airtel, Rahejas and a lot of other investors, who are involved in the making of significant contributions in the sector which would lead to the emergence of retailers at the international level. These retailers have the power to make proper bargains with the suppliers and can reap the benefits of the economies of scale. Hence the process of discounting has become a widely accepted practice (SIA, 2003). In the international arena, India is looked upon as the last option left because the sector of retail in the nation of China has almost become saturated. At the same time the restrictions imposed by the government of India on FDI are also giving hard times to the international giants like the walmart and Tesco and a lot of other aspirers. The present scenario is that, only 51 percent of foreign direct investment has been allowed by the government towards shops with single brands like t he Reebok, Nike etc. but the international retailers are also taking other available routes for gaining access to the Indian market in an indirect manner by means of entering in to licensing agreements that are strategic and franchisee agreements. There is also whole sale trading on cash and carry basis being opted by the international players because there is permission to 100 % foreign direct investments when it comes to trading on a whole sale basis ( Narayanaswamy and Zainulbhai, 2007) Pantaloon Retail Pantaloon retail has its head quarters in the city of Mumbai and this retailer possesses a retail space of over four million sq. feet. It also has about 140 stores that are spread over 32 indian cities. The retailer is also involved in the provision of employment to over 15,000 indians and reaped a turn over of about 20 billion rupees for the financial year of 2005-2006. Lifestyle International The major activity carried out by the Life style is the running of outlets for retail as well as departmental stores. The main focus of Lifestyle is the operation of department stores in the high end format. The company possesses two names for its brand- SOGO as well as Jiuguang through which all the operations of the retail business are carried out. RPG enterprises One of the leading and largest conglomerated of business in India are the RPG enterprises and the company has a turn over of about 1.6 billion US dollars. The assets of the company itself amount to about 2 billion US dollars. This enterprise was the most rapidly growing group at the national level right from its inception in the year 1979 and possesses a chain of over 20 companies. It also has its operations in over 7 sectors of business like retailing, information technology, transmission, life sciences, power, tyres and entertainment. Trent (Tata) This group has a relatively recent origin and with its establishment in the year 1998 and has been successfully operating chains of retail stores in the nation in a fast manner. The company took its initial step in 1998 by opening Westside a retail chain for life style after which there was the opening of star India Bazaar in the year 2004. Star India Bazaar is a hypermarket that offers a large range of products at the cheapest prices. The growth of Trent continued with the acquisition of Landmark which is the largest retailer of Music and books. Shoppers stop It was in the year 1991 that this major retailer began its journey by the corporate group of companies owned by K. Raheja. This has now developed to the extent that it has become the sole brand for fashion and Lifestyle for entire family. Viveks limited This retailer is the leading player in the section of household appliances as well as consumer electronics in India. Viveks has over 15 showrooms at world class standards in over 3 major cities like Salem, Banglore and Chennai. The retail occupies a retail place of about 1,00,000 square feet. The annual turn over generated by Viveks is around 1 billion rupee.

Ednas Escape The Awakening Essay -- essays papers

Edna's Escape The Awakening Edna’s Escape The ending of Kate Chopin’s The Awakening is both controversial and thought provoking. Many see Edna Pontellier’s suicide as the final stage of her â€Å"awakening†, and the only way that she will ever be able to truly be free. Edna’s suicide, however, is nothing more than her final attempt to escape from her life. Edna Pontellier’s life has become too much for her to handle, and by committing suicide she is simply escaping the oppression she feels from her marriage, the suppression she feels from her children, and the failure of her relationship with Robert. Edna Pontellier’s marriage is a failure in her own eyes. Although when thinking of other husbands she at one time admits that, â€Å"she knew of none better† than her own, she is in no way happy with her married life. When describing the feelings Edna had regarding her marriage Chopin describes the marriage as, â€Å"An indescribable oppression, which seemed to generate in some unfamiliar part of her consciousness, filled her whole being with a vague anguish. It was like a shadow, like a mist passing across her soul’s summer day†. Throughout the course of this novel Edna is coming to the realization that she is extremely unhappy with her married life, and she wishes to be free from the oppression that she feels with the relationship with her husband. Unfortunately for Edna divorce at this time is unheard of, and would be regarded as a disgrace to Edna as well as her family. Edna’s unhappiness with her marriage leaves her with few choices; she can remain in her marriage and be miserable, or she can leave her husband and face the consequences. Edna, however, does not have the heart for either of these choices, and escapes the pain of he... ...l not result from a new house, or her painting, or even her love for Robert, but instead will be much more difficult for her to obtain. It is this realization, as well as the oppression she feels from her marriage and the suppression she feels from her children that lead Edna to commit suicide, for she realizes that is the only way she will truly be able to escape her troublesome life. Edna Ponteillier’s suicide at the end of The Awakening is a result of her failed attempt at a new life. Edna’s suicide was her last resort, and was simply a way to escape from the troubles that resulted from the unhappiness she felt with her life. Edna’s suicide was not representative of the final stage of her â€Å"awakening†, but was merely an escape from the oppression she felt from her husband, the suppression she felt from her children, and from her failed relationship with Robert. Edna's Escape The Awakening Essay -- essays papers Edna's Escape The Awakening Edna’s Escape The ending of Kate Chopin’s The Awakening is both controversial and thought provoking. Many see Edna Pontellier’s suicide as the final stage of her â€Å"awakening†, and the only way that she will ever be able to truly be free. Edna’s suicide, however, is nothing more than her final attempt to escape from her life. Edna Pontellier’s life has become too much for her to handle, and by committing suicide she is simply escaping the oppression she feels from her marriage, the suppression she feels from her children, and the failure of her relationship with Robert. Edna Pontellier’s marriage is a failure in her own eyes. Although when thinking of other husbands she at one time admits that, â€Å"she knew of none better† than her own, she is in no way happy with her married life. When describing the feelings Edna had regarding her marriage Chopin describes the marriage as, â€Å"An indescribable oppression, which seemed to generate in some unfamiliar part of her consciousness, filled her whole being with a vague anguish. It was like a shadow, like a mist passing across her soul’s summer day†. Throughout the course of this novel Edna is coming to the realization that she is extremely unhappy with her married life, and she wishes to be free from the oppression that she feels with the relationship with her husband. Unfortunately for Edna divorce at this time is unheard of, and would be regarded as a disgrace to Edna as well as her family. Edna’s unhappiness with her marriage leaves her with few choices; she can remain in her marriage and be miserable, or she can leave her husband and face the consequences. Edna, however, does not have the heart for either of these choices, and escapes the pain of he... ...l not result from a new house, or her painting, or even her love for Robert, but instead will be much more difficult for her to obtain. It is this realization, as well as the oppression she feels from her marriage and the suppression she feels from her children that lead Edna to commit suicide, for she realizes that is the only way she will truly be able to escape her troublesome life. Edna Ponteillier’s suicide at the end of The Awakening is a result of her failed attempt at a new life. Edna’s suicide was her last resort, and was simply a way to escape from the troubles that resulted from the unhappiness she felt with her life. Edna’s suicide was not representative of the final stage of her â€Å"awakening†, but was merely an escape from the oppression she felt from her husband, the suppression she felt from her children, and from her failed relationship with Robert.

The Children in Sons and Lovers and What Maisie Knew :: Lawrence Sons and Lovers Essays

The Children in Sons and Lovers and What Maisie Knew      Ã‚  Ã‚   The characters in Sons and Lovers by D. H. Lawrence and the characters in What Maisie Knew each have a special meaning.   They all seem to be interwoven with one another portraying a new cycle in another characters life.   For instance, in What Maisie Knew Mrs. Wix was introduced, in my opinion, at a time when Maisie needed a mother figure. Also, Sir Claude is introduced when she seems to need a father figure.   On the other hand, in Sons and Lovers there are not very many new characters introduced. However, the ones that are introduced seem to want to try and break the bond that Paul and his mother have.  Ã‚   Thus, James and Lawrence seem to be using similar themes with different surroundings and events.   Although the circumstances are different, Henry James and D. H. Lawrence characterize the children as being Impoverished.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Henry James in his novel What Maisie Knew, portrays the main character, Maisie, as being impoverished emotionally.   The emotional poverty that Maisie experiences in her life exist because of her parents extremely vicious hatred for each other.   They use Maisie as a "vessel for bitterness" (13). To Beale and Ida, Maisie was just a tool that they used to hurt the other person.   Eventually, Maisie figured out that they were using her to be the bearer of brutily hateful messages.   Consequently, she learned not to deliver such messages.   This made her parents very angry and they decided that she had "grown incredably dull".   Thus, Maisie realized " They had wanted her not for any good they could do her, but for harm they could, with her unconscious aid, do each other." Unfortunately, Maisie's emotions were of no concern to either parent.   As a result, Maisie seldom experienced any meaningful affection from either of her parents. Furthermore, on the rare occasions when Maisie's mother embraced her it was performed without any affection, or it is so convulsive that it makes her feel as though "she had suddenly been thrust, with a smash of glass, into a jeweller's shop-front..." (112 Lawrence).  Ã‚  Ã‚   Likewise, Maisie's father subjects her to emotional neglect by reminding her that everything had " changed on her account, everything ordered to enable him to give himself up

An Analysis of Humes Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion Essay

An Analysis of Hume's Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion ABSTRACT: Hume's Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion (1779) may be read in the way Cleanthes (and Philo as well) reads Nature, as analogous to human artifice and contrivance. The Dialogues and Nature then are both texts, with an intelligent author or Author, and analogies may be started from these five facts of Hume's text: the independence of Hume's characters; the non-straightforwardness of the characters' discourse; the way the characters interact and live; the entanglements of Pamphilus as an internal author; and the ways in which a reader is also involved in making a dialogue. These and other analogies should reflect upon the Author of Nature as they do upon Hume's authorship: They do not prove the existence of their respective authors, but may well shed some light on the nature of these disparate beings. The bulk of Hume's Dialogues concerning Natural Religion is given over to two discussions of "the" so-called argument from design. (1) In Part 2 Cleanthes succinctly states an "argument a posteriori" that attempts to "prove at once the existence of a Deity, and his similarity to human mind and intelligence." According to this argument, the world and its parts are (like) intricate machines or human contrivances, implying "by all the rules of analogy" that their cause, "the Author of Nature," is a designing intelligence (all 2.5.Cleanthes to Demea and Philo). Philo then subjects this argument to various and withering criticisms in Parts 2-8, although he later ends up confessing, more than once, (2) his inability to deny the powerful attraction this form of argument and its natural theological conclusion has for everyone, himself included. In Parts 10 and... ...otelian Society Supplementary Volume 18, 179-228. Tweyman, Stanley. 1986. Scepticism and Belief in Hume's Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion. The Hague: Martinus Nijhoff. Williams, B. A. O. 1963. "Hume on Religion," in David F. Pears, ed. David Hume: A Symposium. London: Macmillan; New York: St. Martin's Press, 77-88. Wollheim, Richard, ed. 1963. Hume on Religion. London: William Collins Sons/Fontana Library. (editor's introduction, 7-30) Wood, Forrest E., Jr. 1971. "Hume's Philosophy of Religion as Reflected in the Dialogues." Southwestern Journal of Philosophy II, 185-193. Yandell, Keith E. 1976. "Hume on Religious Belief." In Livingston, Donald W. and James T. King, eds. Hume: A Re-Evaluation. New York: Fordham University Press, 109-125. ________. 1990. Hume's "Inexplicable Mystery": His Views on Religion. Philadelphia: Temple University Press.

Gene doping: the hype and the reality

Genetic manipulation has produced some potential advantages to be able to alter the cells in animal models of human diseases, which may make disease as a thing of the past and help with the development of better pharmaceutical products in order to extend the human life spans, however, there are still major technological obstacles that require further research to ensure the methods and effects of genetic manipulation. The gene therapy products may not only be beneficial to human diseases, but also to athletes in sports. Some potential targets for gene doping include the induction of muscle hypertrophy, increasing oxygen delivery, and the induction of angiogenesis. Some of them may be undetectable by using current tests. Therefore, in order to prevent athletes from benefiting from novel treatments for diseases, it is important to improve the technology of gene doping and the methods of detection. For some potential targets of gene doping, insulin-like growth factor 1 is an example, which is a protein that can stimulate the proliferation of cells, somatic growth and cellular differentiation. And myostatin is another protein that negatively regulates the muscle mass. Therefore, overexpression of insulin-like growth factor 1 along with the blockade of the action of myostatin may induce the hypertrophy of muscle. Moreover, increasing oxygen delivery is also important for endurance events. In order to increase the delivery of oxygen, erythropoietin can be used to raise the hematocrit because the expression of erythropoietin leads to an increase in the production of red blood cells and hence an increase in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. As a result, it might improve the athletic performance, particularly for endurance athletes. Personally speaking, as a guy, I would like to manipulate the insulin-like growth factor 1 because it can increase the muscle mass and induce the hypertrophy of muscle which can make me look more muscular. Also, it can stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of the cells, which can escape age-related muscle atrophy and retain to be young. That is what everyone wants to be! For gene delivery, the genetic material is transferred into the target cell by using a delivery system called vector. Gene transfer can be divided into ex vivo and in vivo gene transfer. In ex vivo gene transfer, the cells are taken from the individuals to be treated, and then they are genetically modified in the cell culture by using the viral vector, which is more complicated and expensive. For in vivo gene delivery, the vector is prepared with the gene of interest, so this prepared vector can be used to treat many individuals, which costs less. Actually, both methods of gene delivery have their own benefits and limitations; therefore, a comprehensive gene transfer protocol is required to make sure that there is no risk to the individuals.

Media Systems in China and the Us

The world is filled with many diverse media systems. These media systems are built on many elements from cultural characteristics to media content. China, for instance has very distinct news reporting guidelines and regulations that affect the media content. In the United States media regulations affect what media we are exposed to and the news reporting that is present. These two media systems have some similarities but they differ greatly from each other in the way and extent that their media is regulated and by the way their news is reported and by who reports the news.The United States has a very vibrant media system with many choices for consumers. The US is about 9. 7 million square kilometers with 278 million people. The most common languages spoken are English and Spanish. Out of the 278 million people, 97% are literate. The country is run by a democratic government and the president is Barack Obama. One of the most important parts of the US is the information system. It is o ne of the most quickly growing sectors of the economy and it has 144,000 businesses dedicated to media. Because of this, media is extremely important in everyday life.Two important aspects of the United States media system that differentiate it from other large media systems are regulation and news reporting. To begin with, regulation in the US is based on democracy. All citizens enjoy the protection of speech under the first amendment which also protects freedom of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. But there is still some regulation. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) controls broadcast stations, amateur radio stations, and repeater stations, just to name a few.These users and stations must obtain and renew an annual license. Also, news stations must operate under licenses for their reporters to report on stories. Overall, the FCC controls six separate areas: broadband, competition, the spectrum (radio), the media, public safety and homeland security. Its main purpose is to promote safety by communicating and publicity. Regulation in the US also strongly affects newspapers and print media. Most newspapers, like broadcast stations, are part of chains that are owned by corporations. Currently, ten different companies own over half of the newspapers in circulation in the US today.Gannett, Knight Rider and Tribune Co. are just a few of those corporations. Since newspapers are owned by powerful companies, there is serious concern that they will gain too much power and influence, but there are no restrictions in place against this. Unlike under the FCC, newspaper journalists only have to be licensed when covering campaigns, the White House, legislatures and sporting events. These journalists are issued credentials as needed. Even though licenses aren’t necessary, journalists face many laws such as those concerning libel and defamation.This prohibits them from publ ishing false statements about people. Also, these journalists face privacy laws. Privacy laws differ between two different people First, AN ALL purpose public figure (Jennifer Aniston), IS someone who chooses to be forced into the public eye, THEY have less protection. Limited purpose public figures (politicians) can choose whether or not to be in the public eye and have slightly more protection. The journalist reporting on these people can be punished if they â€Å"challenge† the privacy of that person.AS FOR CENSORSHIP, luckily, the government is not officially allowed to censor newspapers, magazines, broadcast stations or any other media in the US and there is no censorship agency. News reporting in the US is also very diverse. It has a very strong affect on the government’s policies. MOST PEOPLE CONSIDER THE NEWS REPORTING TO BE A CHECK ON THE GOVERNMENT’S POWER AND A CORRUPTION MONITOR. For example, at the most crucial point during the Vietnam War, the resi gnation of Nixon could be â€Å"directly correlated to the pressure by the media and the news† (Gale).ALSO IT WAS THE INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING OF THE WASHINGTON POST THAT DISCOVERED AND REPORTED THE WATERGATE SCANDAL THAT LED TO THE RESIGNATION OF PRESIDENT RICHARD NIXON. (FIND A SOURCE) Currently, there are many news sources, such as newspapers and television. Newspapers subscribe to many varieties of news agencies depending on topic. The Wall Street Journal subscribes to business wires (agencies focusing on business). Bloomberg, Dow Jones, Reuters and Associated Press (AP) are other well known news wires. The Associated Press is the oldest news agency in the world.It is a nonprofit agency which is funded by member subscriptions from over 121 countries. AP transmits data to over one billion people per day (Gale). In addition to newspapers, there are many television news stations. The first news stations were the Detroit News, Kansas City Star, and KDKA. But in 1980, CNN, a li beral news station, was born, and grew into one of the leading news companies in the US. CNN was the first 24 hour news network. Today, Piers Morgan and Anderson Cooper are well known names affiliated with CNN. Today a rival conservative station, Fox News, competes with CNN.Fox has famous correspondents such as Sean Hannity and Mike Huckabee. In addition to these large news stations there is the BBC, Democracy Now and MSNBC and many local news stations that broadcast in over 100 other countries every day. In addition to news stations, there are comedic political shows such as the Daily Show with Jon Stewart and the O’Reilly Factor with Bill O’Reilly. China has a very different culture and media system than the US. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) is a large country with about 1. 2 billion people. The most common languages spoken are Chinese and Mandarin. Out of the 1. 2 billion people, 92. % are literate. China has been governed by the Chinese Communist Part y (CCP) since 1949 and is currently under Hu Jintao. The communist rule affects the Chinese media system strongly in many ways. The regulation of the media in China is very extreme. According to the PRC’s Constitution, â€Å"citizens of the People’s Republic of China enjoy freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of association, of procession and of demonstration† (Chinese Constitution). But these rights are not guaranteed. The government will not take the chance of being damaged by what the Chinese citizens say. Regulation begins with the CCP.The CCP uses â€Å"central control of the press as a tool for public education, propaganda and mass mobilization towards socialist progress† (Gale). The mass media is not allowed to report any aspect of the Chinese policy making process, or any serious government event for that matter. Media regulation also exists IS DIRECTED THROUGH the Central Propaganda Department. This department deals with censorship from provincial to local township levels. It controls â€Å"state run culture, education, sports, science and technology and media sectors. † Many compare this department with the church in medieval Europe (Westminster. c. uk). It is thought to keep the Chinese away from democracy. Newspapers, Television and Internet are also strongly regulated. All newspapers must be approved by the State Press and Publications Committee. Before the economic reform in 1992, all papers relied on state funding but after, 1/3 of those papers had private funding so they SUPPOSEDLY had freedom of speech—but they are still subject to censorship. Television cable stations are one of the few media sources ARE ALSO not funded by the government. They work off of cable fees. Lastly, the internet is highly regulated.Websites must get qualifications certificates to post any type of information online from sports to news. People who violate these laws may face life in prison. News reporting in China is also very different HEAVILY REGULATED. There is ONLY one CCP mandated news agency called Xinhua News. It has had a monopoly on Chinese news since 1931. Xinhua is comprised of three major departments: domestic, international and the general office (entertainment). They release news daily, weekly and monthly including reports such as Zhongguo Zhengquan (business news and stock market) and Xinhua Meiri Dianxun (general interest report).It is the â€Å"largest and most articulated internal news system in China† (Gale). It is divided into many â€Å"secrecy† groups on a need to know basis. The many levels of the Party bureaucracy control the daily operations of the Xinhua agency. In addition to Xinhua News Agency, China Central Television (CCTV) broadcasts news 24 hours a day in English. Also, an independent magazine called China Now, reports on social, economic and cultural news. In an article about Chinese citizens accessing BBC for the first time, citizens voiced their f rustration of not being able to see western news publications even if they talked about events in China (BBC).There are a few distinct similarities between the media systems of the US and China. First both countries have very high literacy rights, a very high number of newspapers and a equally large land mass to cover. Both countries television stations are not funded through the government and are either privately funded or funded through user fees. Also, both countries have news agencies that reach billions of people. Xinhua focuses on daily reports that are sent to the outside world while CNN has broadcasts in over 100 countries.DESPITE THESE SIMILARITIES, There are many more differences between the US and Chinese media systems, though. China has twice as many television stations as the US although the US has ten times as many radio stations as China. â€Å"Reporters without Borders† ranks the US at 20 and China at 171, a drastic difference Concerning regulation, China doe s not have the guaranteed freedom of speech while the US does and Chinese journalists must be licensed at all times. There is no censorship agency in the US, but in China, the CCP censors every bit of media, making sure it is all favorable to the government.Also, the Chinese Central Propaganda Department deals with censorship and propaganda from local to governmental levels while the US has no such department. The newspapers in China are sometimes government funded while all US newspapers are owned privately by corporations. Concerning news reporting, China only has one main news station (Xinhua) while the US has many (CNN, MSNBC and Fox) ALLOWING FOR HEALTHY COMPETITION. Most political preferences are represented in the US media while only one is represent in China.China and the United States have very distinct media systems that make them very different from one another. China has very strict regulations making their news and print media very biased. The United States has relaxed rules and values the freedom of speech and press, which give the citizens a wide variety of news and media to choose from AND ENSURES THAT INFORMATION IS EASILY AND READILY AVAILABLE. THIS DIFFERENCE SERVES TO PROTECT DEMOCRACY IN THE US WHEREAS IN THE PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA CENSORSHIP AND CONTROL OVER THE MEDIA PROTECTS THE AUTHORITARIAN GOVERNMENT OF THE CCP.

Positive Risk Taking Essay

Explain ways in which risk is an integral part of everyday life, Risk for most people is an accepted part of everyday life e.g. catching a bus or walking to the shop etc†¦ will carry some element of risk. Risk is associated with our health, safety, security, well being, employment, education, daily activities, using resources and equipment and community participation. Some adults such as those who are disabled or who are older are usually discouraged from taking risks with their budgeting, planning, employment and their daily living skills usually because people fear for their limitations or that they might hurt themselves or others. Everyone has the right to take risks and make decisions about their own lives, a balance should be found between service users participation in everyday activities and the carers duty of care. Social care and health policies are encouraging residents to increase their independence by being involved in the wider society such as leisure and work. It should be noted that it is impossible to eliminate risk completely , however minimising and being prepared for risk by preventative action. Supporting people to live independently by taking part of their lives means accepting that there are risks that cant be avoided but can be prepared for. Explain why individuals may have been discouraged or prevented from taking risks, see more:explain ways in which risk is an integral part of everyday life For some services, approaches to risk have been a problem because they have been concerned with avoiding potentially harmful situations for the service user and staff. People need to take risk to achieve things on their own merit, but there are people who should support them but will discourage them from taking risks because of perceived perceptions of the persons limitations. Risk taking can have benefits for the individual as it will enable them to do things most people take for granted. Risk is beneficial, balancing levels or protection and preserving levels of choice and control. A balance will need to be achieved between the wishes of the individual and the law duty of care. Described the links between risk taking and responsibilities, empowerment and social inclusion, Personalised care is a right for everyone, however some people will need more support than others in helping to make choices of their own lives. Effective personalisation of care comes the need to manage risk for people to make decisions as safely as humanly possible. Making risks clear and understood is crucial to empowering residents and the carers, risk management does not eliminate risks. managing risk to maximise peoples choice and control of their own lives. If the outcomes are part of the support plan and all risks have been discussed and understood, this will lead to real choice and control and will offer a better quality of life for the individual. Positive risk taking will help the resident to gain self confidence, develop new skills knowledge and hopefully allow them take an active part within their community so that they don’t feel included. Explain the process of developing a positive person centered approach to risk assessment, The person centered approach will focus on the individuals rights to choose their own lifestyle, even if that includes making bad decisions. A person centered approach is about helping people and those involved, think in a positive way to achieve the changes they want whilst keeping risk at bay. Risk management is about finding the balance been positive risk taking based on autonomy and independence and a policy of protection for the person and the community based on reducing harm. Its been stated that for a positive person centered approach to a risk assessment should consist of the following, involvement of the service user and relatives in the risk assessment, positive and informed risk taking, proportionality, contextualising behavior, defensible decision making, a learning culture and tolerable risks. Explain how to apply the principles and method of a person centered approach to each of the different stages of the process of risk assessment, Working in a personalised way and developing a positive person centered approach means to know that risks cannot be avoided but however can be prepared for. Reasonable risk is about balancing empowering people who need help to make their own decisions, once they have all the information, that is tailored to their needs so that they make their best decisions. Involvement of service users and relatives in risk assessment, to involve the resident, nearest and dearest is one of the most important parts of the person centered approach. The people involved with the resident will help gather information in framing of what the risk actually is, in thinking, generating ideas and solutions, by evaluating the solutions, in decisions making around the risk, in implementing the actions and by the learning that takes place during these actions. Staff must make note of the residents and others wants, their views on their owns risk and what responsibilities each person has in managing their own risk effectively. The person Centered Approach will meet this by asking for a clear picture of what the person is wanting to achieve, why it is important, what the outcome would look like, a history of the risk, the decision making agreement tools to look at staff roles and responsibilities and who will be responsible for the different decisions relating to the r isk. Positive and informed risk raking, This particular process is formed around the positive view of the person. This process is based on finding creative solutions rather than just saying no. Informed and positive risk taking is about quality of life being lived to the full whilst people in the community are kept safe, by meeting what is important to them, how they would keep themselves and others safe. Remember that positive and informed risk taking needs to touch on what the law says and allows i.e. legislation within The Human Rights Act. Proportionality, The management of risk must match the potential harm that could be caused. Using a person centered approach means flexibility. The more serious the task the more time you would consider it in greater detail. Centered approach looks at the consequences of not doing the task that could have potential risks for the resident, family member etc†¦ and being able to balance against the consequences that could happen of taking the risk. Contextualising Behavior, asks why did the person behaved in a certain way? at this time? in this situation? Part of this process involves getting information regarding previous information about the person, including the history of the resident of the risk they are wanting to undertake from their own perspective, historical data from a variety of sources to look at what has worked in particular situations, and communication charts will help with a persons words and behaviors, seeking their meaning and what the best response should be. This will help to get a understanding of the persons behavior in different context, but also to build a picture of what has been learned about how to best support the resident. Defensible Decision making, Following the person centered approach generates a clear trail of written and recorded records of what has been discussed, the different perspectives, the problems and solutions that have been considered, alongside any legal issues, such as the Human rights act or that of the mental health act that could effect the risk decision. All paperwork generated during the process provides a clear rationale for the decisions that will emerge during the processes that have been taken, and why other options have been declined. The rationale for decision making is also more clearly expounded and recorded than in traditional risk assessment forms in common usage. A learning Culture, The positive and productive approach to risk has a deep emphasis within its on going learning, using learning and reflective tools such as questions such as whats working? whats not working etc†¦ by defining staff their core duties and their own judgement and creativity in relation to the risk. Tolerable Risks is a key aspect for the Person Centred Approach in using this process it enables participants to have a more balanced and rational approach to risk, finding ways to enable the person to achieve what is important to them while considering what keeps that person and the community safe in a way the individual understands. Explain how a service focused approach to risk assessment would differ from a person centred approach A risk assessment only identifies the probability of harm, assess the impact on the individual, and interventions that will help to diminish the risk or to reduce the harm. Assessments cannot prevent risk. Risk is a normal and enables learning and understanding. Risk assessments are full of charts and scoring systems. A service focused approach seeks to avoid all risks. Risk assessments have no flexibility and is not a responsive approach to meet peoples changing circumstances. A service centred approach to risk assessment would be guided by a standard procedure and can compromise individuals rights to make choices and take risks. A person centred approach to risk taking will find the balance between what is important to the person, their aspirations and the supports that they require. Identify the consequences for individuals of a service focused approach to risk-assessment. Risk taking will usually often have positive benefits for individuals, enabling them to do things that most will take for granted. The problem with a service focused approach to risk assessment, is that it reduces the individual’s independence which in turn could reduce the positive benefits for the individual in question. A service focused approach to risk taking usually tends to have a negative focus on what the individual is not able to do or what they cannot achieve and has a limited outlook on identifying the benefits of positive, person-centred risk assessment. It does not empower the individual or encourage independence. Explain how legislation, national and local policies and guidance provide a framework for decision making which can support an individual to have control over their own lives, There are many different legislations and policies in place to promote human rights, in relation to support the individuals right to make up his or her own mind and to take risk. The equality Act 2010, is a law that bans any unfair treatment and help to get equal opportunities in the workplace and society. This Act covers nine protected characteristics, which cannot be used as a reason to treat people unfairly they are, Age Disability gender reassignment marriage and civil partnership pregnancy and maternity race religion or belief sex sexual orientation The Human rights Act 1998, This Act states that are able to seek help from courts if their Human rights have been infringed. The Human Right Act guarantees the following rights; The Right to life The right to freedom from torture and inhuman or degrading punishment The right to freedom from slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour The right to liberty and security of person The right to a fair and public trial within a reasonable time The right to freedom from retrospective criminal law and no punishment without law The right to respect for private and family life, home and correspondence The right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion The right to freedom of expression The right to freedom of assembly and association The right to marry and found a family The prohibition of discrimination in the enjoyment of convention rights The right to peaceful enjoyment of possessions and protection of property The right to access to an education The right to free elections The right not to be subjected to the death penalty Mental Capacity Act 2005, is to promote and safeguard decision making within a legal framework. It does this in two ways: By empowering people to make decisions for themselves wherever possible and by protecting people who lack capacity by providing a flexible framework that allows them to be part of the decision making process By allowing people to plan ahead for a time in the future when they might lack the capacity for any number of reasons Mental Health Act 2007 – amends the Mental Health Act 1983 and the Mental Capacity Act 2005. It introduces significant changes which include: Introduction of Supervised Community Treatment. This replaced supervised discharge with a power to return the patient to hospital, where the person may be forcibly medicated, if the medication regime is not being complied with in the community. Redefining professional roles: broadening the range of mental health professionals who can be responsible for the treatment of patients without their consent. Nearest relative: making it possible for some patients to appoint a civil partner as nearest relative. Definition of mental disorder: introduce a new definition of mental disorder throughout the Act. Criteria for Involuntary commitment: introduce a requirement that someone cannot be detained for treatment unless appropriate treatment is available. Introduction of independent mental health advocates for qualifying patients. Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 This act is intended to prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable people and to reform current vetting and barring practices. The act sets out a legal framework for the Independent Safeguarding Authority. Valuing People (Department of Health, 2001) This states the importance of Person Centred Planning can play in helping people with learning difficulties take charge of their own lives. The Guidance (Department of Health, 2002) stressed that Person Centred Planning is not a professional activity done to people; instead people themselves and their friends, families or other allies, must lead it. Putting People First, stated that person centred planning must become mainstream. Putting People First recognises that person-centred planning and self-directed support are central to delivering personalisation and maximising choice and control. It recognises that to achieve real change, users and carers must participate at every stage. These areas are: universal services – transport, leisure, health, education, housing and access to information and advice; choice and control – shaping services to meet people’s needs, rather than shaping people to fit in with the services on offer; social capital – care and support that individuals and their carers can get from their local community (friends, family, neighbours or community groups); and early intervention and prevention – support that is available for people who need help to stay independent for as long as possible, to keep their home or garden tidy, or to start taking regular exercise. Describe how a human rights based approach supports an individual to make decisions and take risks; A human rights based approach to risk management means to make sure individuals know their rights and that they are being supported to participate in making their own choices and decisions. A human rights based approach to risk assessment will balance the human rights of service users, carers, and other members of their communities. This is done so risks can be managed more positively and effectively. A human rights based approach looks at risk with ‘Human Rights’ in mind, it identifies the relevant equality and diversity issues, and maximises service user participation and empowerment. A human rights based approach to risk, means ensuring service users are as involved as they can possibly be in their own risk assessment process. support an individual to recognise potential risk in different areas of their life, and support the individual to balance choices with their own and others’ health, safety and Wellbeing; Positive risk taking is the process which will identify the potential benefit or harm. Positive Risk taking is to encourage and support people in positive risk taking so that they can achieve personal change or growth. Risks can be in many different areas of their life including, risks relating to their own health, their social life and also their finances and it is important to support the individual to recognise all of these potential risks. The risk assessment looks at four areas of risk; risks to self, risks to others and risks from other and risks to property. It is important that whilst improving on their quality of life they need to maintain their safety, responsibilities to themselves and others. Supporting an individual to recognise potential risks whilst balancing the choices with their own and others health, safety and well-being involves: Empowering people to access opportunities and take worthwhile chances. Understanding the person’s perspective of what they will gain from taking risks and understanding what they will lose if they are not allowed to take the risk. Ensuring the individual understanding the consequences of different actions to understand what the reasonably expected consequences may be of making that choice. Helping the individual to make decisions based on all the choices available and accurate information. Being positive about risk taking. Understanding a person’s strengths and finding creative ways for people to be able to do things rather than ruling them out. Knowing what has worked or not in the past and where problems have arisen, understanding why supporting people who use services to learn from their experiences. ensuring support and advocacy is available sometimes supporting short term risks for long-term gains. ensuring that services provided promote independence not dependence assuming that people can make their own decisions (in line with the Mental Capacity Act) and supporting people to do so working in partnership with adults who use services, family carers and advocates and recognise their different perspectives and views developing an understanding of the responsibilities of each party promoting trusting working relationships. Describe how own values, belief systems and experiences may affect working practice when supporting an individual to take risks Encouraging risk taking can put people in a difficult position as trying to balance someones own personalisation through risk taking with your own values and beliefs and the duty to keep people safe. Peoples past experiences may make them feel that the risks involved, will result in problems, however they should not let this interfere with the individual’s wishes. At some point everyone will have had a bad experience following a course of action this does not necessarily mean this will happen to other people. Your beliefs and experiences should not cloud the issue. It is key that you feel confident and equipped to support people to assess and evaluate their own risks. Advice is readily available when facing difficult cases in the form of risk enablement panels. Record all discussions and decisions made relating to supporting the individual to take risks, It is very important to ensure that all discussions and decisions made relating to supporting the individual to take risks are recorded within their support plan. Records will need to be eligible and understandable to all the members that work with the individual. The aim of record keeping is to ensure that the right people have the right information at the right time to provide the best care for the person in question. Recording information will provide a record of what has been discussed and decided in regards of risk taking. The records should also record any incidents which have taken place. The reason for keeping the records are: To show that you have offered the individual choices To show that you have agreed the desired outcomes To show that the individual has given their consent. complete a risk assessment with an individual following agreed ways of working, Risk assessment is the activity of collecting information through observation, communication and investigation. It is an ongoing process that involves considerable persistence and skill to assemble and manage relevant information in ways that become meaningful for the users of services (and significant other people) as well as the practitioners involved in delivering services and support. An effective risk assessment will need the person in question, their families, carers, advocates and practitioners to speak with one another to decide on decision and course of action. communicate the content of the risk assessment to others It is important to communicate and work in a consistent way with all those whom are supporting the individual. Gathering information and sharing is important. It is not just an essential part of risk assessment and management, but also key in identifying risks. Its important to communicate the relevant information of the risk assessment to all relevant staff. It will also be important to discuss and explain the risk assessment with the individual’s carer and family, so that they are kept in the loop. The individual’s goals and targets should be discussed too, so that they can aid understanding regarding the risk assessment and to ensure all those involved are aware of the desired outcomes. support the individual to take the risk for which the assessment has been completed; One way of supporting the individual to take the risk, could involve having a trial run. An example could be where the individual wants to make an independent trip in to town using public transport. On the first trip you could accompany the individual on each step of the journey. On the second trip, you could accompany them to the town and then arrange to meet with them later in the day. On the third trip, you may just accompany them to the bus stop. Gradually you can reduce the amount of support you provide. It is also important that the individual knows what to do if things do go wrong. You can support them to take risks by ensuring they have clear information and advice about what to do if they have any concerns. Review and revise the risk assessment with the individual; After each risk assessment has been agreed it will be important that to monitor and review in case any revisions are necessary. Risks may change as circumstances change, so they should be reviewed regularly. Risk assessments should be reviewed periodically and whenever circumstances change to ensure they remain current. i.e. Resident Baths on the own accord, but due to a fall now need assistance getting in and out of the bath. evaluate with the individual how taking the identified risk has contributed to their well-being. Well-being describes the way we think and feel about ourselves and others, our confidence, and our ability to control things in our life. When evaluating you will need to speak, with the individual, how taking the identified risks has helped their well-being and their quality of life. This will involve looking at the positive /negative consequences and outcomes of their choices they have made. Looking at whether taking the risks have met the individual’s needs and achieved their desired outcome. Taking an identified risk will hopefully make the individual feel empowered and to have a greater feel of independence, control and normality. In supporting the individual to take positive risks, it should help them to evaluate other courses of action and can build confidence. The experience of failure, as a result of risk taking in a safe environment, can help to manage the identified risk better in the future. explain how the principle of duty of care can be maintained while supporting individuals to take risks, Everyone has a duty of care and a responsibility not to agree to a support plan if there are any serious concerns that it will not meet the individual’s needs or if it places an individual in a dangerous situation. Whilst an individual can choose to live with a level of risk and is allowed to do so through law, the local authority does not have to fund it. When you support individuals so that they can have more choice and control within their lives through positive risk taking, things may go wrong from time to time. A defensible decision is one where those involved in the risk assessing process: Used reliable assessment methods Acted responsibly in relation to their duty of care Were not negligent Assessed and took steps to manage and minimise foreseeable risks Recorded decisions and subsequently checked they were carried out Followed policies, procedures and guidance Involved the person and other relevant people in the process Supported people to make informed decisions Identification of positive and negative risks Involvement of people who use services and those who are important to them – this includes people who form the individual’s informal ‘circle of support’, who are involved from the beginning to gather information, define what the risks are from the individual’s point of view and to discuss ways to enable and manage these risks. Positive and informed risk-taking – this is built on a strengths-based approach to the person and looks at creative ways for people to be able to do things rather than ruling them out. Proportionality – this means that the time and effort spent on managing a risk should match the severity of that risk. The approach should also explore the consequence of not taking the risk in question, such as loss of autonomy or restriction of choice. Contextualising behaviour – this means knowing about the person’s history and social environment, their previous experience of risk, what has and has not worked in previous situations. Defensible decision making – this means recording a clear rationale for all the decisions made and the discussions that led to the decisions, including reference to relevant legislation such as the Mental Capacity Act or the Human Rights Act. A learning culture – this require a commitment to ongoing learning and the use of reflective practice for people working at the frontline. Tolerable risks – this involves negotiating and balancing issues of risk and safety to identify what is acceptable for everyone concerned (the individual and others including the community) on a case by case basis. Describe what action to take if an individual decides to take an unplanned risk that places him/herself or others in immediate or imminent danger, When looking after someone if you believe that he or she is about to take an unplanned risk which could potentially place them or others in immediate or imminent danger it is very important to take appropriate corrective and preventative action and stop the activity immediately. Risk assessments should include contingency plans that address risks from unplanned events. Physical intervention may only be the course of action. Staff should be trained with a range of skills to deal with any potentially violent situations, as well as a range of restraint techniques that will help them use the minimum level of force possible. Physical intervention is only used in response to challenging behaviour.