Is Gatsby’s Dream Defeated by Nothing More Than Time Itself? Essay

Top of Form F.Scott Fitzgerald have set up in his novel â€Å"The Great Gatsby† the different views of how â€Å"ultimately, Gatsby’s dream is defeated by nothing more nor less than Time itself.†, such as Gatsby’s inability to diffrentiate between reality and illusion and his build-up of unrealistic dreams. However, there are also other ways in which his dream can be defeated, other than time itself. The significance and importance of the presence of time as well as other significant factors are both heightened by Fitzgerald’s skillful use of range of key techniques such as symbolism, metaphors, foreshadowing, characterisation to effectively convey the extension of my agreement towards whether or not Gatsby’s dream is defeated by time. Fitzgerald uses Gatsby’s inability to distinguish between reality and illusion to speak of the defeat of his dream through Gatsby’s ideal persona and through the act of his house as a metaphor. Gatsby’ s downfall seems to be result of his inablity to see through and beyond illusions- especially when â€Å"he sprang from his platonic conception of himself.† We can see that it’s the attempt itself and the firm belief that he can achieve the impossible that is more than the sum of his reality. Gatsby conforms to the ideal of himself that can transform reality to possibility. Therefore, using this to his advantage Gatsby ha crafted Daisy into the ideal woman that he wishes her to be. Fitzgerald writes: â€Å"There must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of his dreams–not through her own fault, but because of the colossal vitality of his illusion.† As a reader, we can all recognise that Daisy is only a regular, rich western girl. However, because Gatsby has made her more perfect than she actually is in his imagination,this suggests that the â€Å"colossal vitality of his illusions† of Gatsby, the idealized version of himself is what thrown him into the idea that Daisy is perfect. By doing this, I think that Fiztgerald intends to critisize how people in the 1920s blindly giving meaning to the idealism of the American Dream, as much as Gatsby is trying to give as much perfection to his own love, Daisy. Furthermore, another idea of illusion present in Gatsby is his â€Å"failure,  incoherent of a house.† By describing his house as a failure and by using the word â€Å"incoherent†, the mansion is suggestive of the measure of failure of the democratic ideals. For many years, Gatsby presented his house with demoractic ordeals to enhance his aristocratic image and wealth. Therefore by doing this, Gatsby has hidden away traces of himself which further deepens his illusions and driven him to live in it, as much as his house is an unrealistic object he uses to only impress Daisy. Thus, I do agree that Gatsby is driven by his illusions to an extent that when he faces with reality when Daisy leaves him, he realizes that his dream is gone forever. Fitzgerald also uses Gatsby’s desire to rewind time to show how his dream is defeated, through the manner of Gatsby and the symbolism of the clock in Nick’s house. After Gatsby’s tale with Daisy begins with he fa lling in love with her in 1917, he is devastated to see her married with Tom. When Nick says â€Å"you can’t repeat the past† and Gatsby confidently replied with â€Å"of course you can, old sport.† This determination in Gatsby’s saying manage to highlight his desperation and longing to return to the past, where all of his memories and Daisy were stored. At one point his nervousness during his first meeting with Daisy in Nick’s house, he â€Å"knocks a broken clock off the mantel, catching it just before it hits the ground†. The readers can see that this clock goes beyond Gatsby’s nervousness, but is a symbolic nature of his desire for time to stop. In a way, the clock stopped at a specific point in time and is seen to be trapped, just as Gatsby’s life stopped when he was hit with the realization that while he was poor and the fact he could never have Daisy. He’s been so busy chasing a dream rather than enjoying reality, therefore like the clock, he is emotionally stunted in his mindset when he has loved Daisy in the past. Thus, I do agree that even though Gatsby’s dream is defeated by the presence of time, but time doesn’t stop for anyone and this also allow characters like Daisy to have a change of heart-Daisy is no longer a sweet girl Gatsby knew long time ago- but now a selfish woman with a voice â€Å"full of money†. The obsession of wealth that caused Daisy to love Gatsby’s superficial image only proves to us that repeating the past under the influence of the American Dream is impossible. Other than time itself, Fitzgerald also uses comparison to show the hopelessness in Gatsby’s defeated dream even before he was bornt. Nick finishes his story when he â€Å"became aware of the old island here that  flowered once for Dutch sailors’ eyes- a fresh green breast of the new world.† Fitzgerald have created the imagery of explorers travelling long distances, from East to West, to escape from their corrupted nations. The use of â€Å"Dutch† people here suggests their root coming from the western, and when America was found, they â€Å"flowered† of a new nation of peace and moral status. However, we can see that America itself is now corrupted- highlighting that despite the fact the Dutch wants to create something new and of value, the fact that their root coming from corruption doesn’t go away, and instead brought karma with them here tchuo the new land. Therefore like the Americans, characters in the Great Gatsby travelled west to east in search for wealth while leaving behind the social and moral values, and thus implies how Fitzgerald successfully present to the readers how people like Tom and Daisy- their immorality and purposelessness were created. Like the others, Gatsby choose this way and since he cheated his way to success, his dream failed due to the class distinctions that were present even before his existence. Gatsby’s American Dream is seen to be achieving Daisy, but when Gatsby is no longer the man she used to love, but rather a man of great success and prosperity, this proves to us the heartlessness in characters like Daisy that’ s in contrast to the basic nobility of Gatsby’s character. Thus, I do disagree that even though Gatsby can’t defeat the power of time, his dream is already out of his reach since young. However, Fitzgerald uses Gatsby’s build-up of sentimental dreams overtime to prove that he’s defeated by time. Gatsby set out to reach for his dream when he met his Dan Cody. During the time he travelled with Cody, he experienced a glamorous life and began to dream of a bright future where Daisy is present in it. At the end of chapter 1 Nick saw Gatsby â€Å"stretched out his arms towards the dark water† tat is a â€Å"single green light at the end of the dock.† For a long time the action of Gatsby â€Å"stretched out† is a representation of the future that he longs for. The â€Å"green light† at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s hopes and dreams of an ideal life though he’s oblivious to the unattainable nature of his wishes. However, Gatsby reaches not only for Daisy herself but for this idea of Daisy and the utopian future he associates with her. Nick muses that â€Å"it had not been merely the stars to which Gatsby had aspired on that June night.† In a sense, the readers can see that Gatsby is reaching for the stars as well. He heavily idealizes all of his dreams and builds  them up on a stellar level-so much to an extent that he loses track of time. I think Fitzgerald intends to do this in order to criticize and reveal the nature of the American society led by capitalist system, of creating false hopes for the nepotism in the roaring 1920s through characters like Gatsby living vicariously through the upper class society. Therefore, I agree to an extent that Gatsby is defeated by time because of his failure to pick up the facts that his dreams only exist as memories. In conclusion, Fitzgeral have displayed throughout the novel many aspects of how Gatsby’s dream is defeated by time and aspects of not only time itself. However, I think I would agree that Gatsby’s dream is largely been affected by the importance and presence of time in the novel- the last line of the book summarizes Gatsby’s struggle as â€Å"boats against the currents, born back ceaselessly into the past.† Though the green light symbolizes everything Gatsby wishes for, it directs him backwards in life instead of forwards. He never manages to understand that time doesn’t stop for anyone and move on. This also criticizes the cruel American society during the 1920s it leads to chaos and betrayals, it leads to destroying others who’s trying to reach their goals. Characters like tom and daisy were created and the American Dream failed everyone who tries satisfying themselves.

My Strengths

The only reason why I can say so much about myself is I take in a lot of feedback from people who know me. Although I know that I should be a person with full self-awareness, I take into account how other people see me so I could improve in areas where I could improve (and when I think it is fair and appropriate) and subsequently lead a better life. It is one good sign of openness to the opportunities that the world can offer – the ability to take criticism, move on and know that there is nothing personal about seeking improvement in what you are doing. My friends, classmates and loved ones have always told me that I have the knack for speaking my own thoughts. I am straightforward and I like expressing my thoughts in a direct manner. I think it is a plus, because people do not really want to waste time guessing what you mean. I live to describe things as I see them, and tell things as they are. I have a great sense of humor. I find it easy to make friends laugh during casual conversations. Sense of humor is a great element in interpersonal communication, specifically in the field of marketing and campaigns. Sense of humor is also good for career-driven people who need to talk to countless people to build an excellent business network. I am also a fast, responsive learner. I am smart when it comes to numbers — it is good for business, I know. I studied in reputable schools, and that gives me an edge over people who did not get to study at all. Although my education is not a reason for bragging, it is a reason to be grateful that I know a lot of things that life outside school will not be able to teach me. I have had several part-time and summer jobs, which honed my alertness, level of customer service understanding, and entrepreneurial side. I am fully aware that every job I’ve done in the past is a lot of the reason why I am the confident person that I am today; it will also form part of who I’m going to be tomorrow, or five years down the line. To sum it up, the major details of my past — in school and in my career, ultimately, in life in general — have helped me become this strong and competent person that I am today. My Weaknesses Like most human beings, I have my own set of weaknesses. I am not tolerant of hunger. When I’m hungry, I eat. I eat peanuts or crackers, I just have to shove some edible and nutritious food down my throat and I’ll be fine. But when I’m hungry, really very hungry, I lose concentration, and experience terrible mood swings. This is the reason why I always have chocolate and crackers in my pocket. One of weaknesses, too is not putting down a book when I started reading. I also do not turn off the DVD player once I decide to watch a TV series-in DVD minimovies. On one hand, it is good that I do not stop doing something when there seems to be nothing going on. On the other hand, it is bad because I should be able to stick to schedule and I’ve got to have the courage to turn off the television when I have to, whether I’m being slaved over by my boss. Why an Employer Should Hire Me An employer should hire me because my whole life has been a preparation for a job that would make me extremely competent as an employee. An employer should hire me because I am a very fast learner and I am an excellent team player. At the same time, I am independent. You can leave me here and I’ll be fine. I will ask a few questions but that’s that. I won’t ask for spoon-feeding because I like the idea that I’m leaning in an unsupervised environment. An employer should hire me because I will take care of his business as if it’s my own. (It will spell a lot of difference.) The many mistakes that have occurred in many businesses and contacts before include their team’s unsupportive nature. I am excellent story-teller. I will make a socially-aware potential Mr. Mc Donanld? Â   Â   Â  

Financial performance of Intercontinental Hotels Group Plc 2009-2010 Essay

Financial performance of Intercontinental Hotels Group Plc 2009-2010 - Essay Example This can be attributed to the reduction in the cost of goods sold for the organization from 2009 to 2010. Profit margin of a company can be defined as the ratio of net profit to net sales. The margin for IHG was 18% in the year 2010. The same margin in 2009 was 13.91%. There is a considerable increase in the profit margin of the hotel. This can be attributed to the lowering of costs from 2009 to 2010. The net profit that we have considered here is including the exceptional items. If we exclude the exceptional items, we find that the ratio has decreased from 19.12% in 2009 to 17.44% in 2010. This is because the existence of high net profit margin excluding exceptional items in 2009 as compared to 2010. The value of this ratio for year 2009 and 2010 is 7.40% and 10.55% respectively. We see that there is a slight increase in the net profit from year 2009 to 2010. At the same time, total assets have come down. Therefore, there is a slight increment in the return on assets. While return on assets measure the amount of net income generated for each unit of assets, return on investment measures the amount of income generated from each unit of owners’ equity. Return on equity can be calculated by dividing the net profit by total equity. The return on equity for IHG has decreased from 2009 (137.18%) to 2010 (100.69%). This is because there is a significant increment in the total equity of the organization. The margin has increased considerably from 2009 (-0.65%) to 2010 (28.19%). In 2009, the company had high cost of goods sold and high impairment costs that resulted in the lowering of the operating profit. Hence the company had a negative operative margin in the year 2009. The high costs can be attributed to the global economic slowdown. This ratio is an indication of the financial leverage of a company. While total liabilities represented 17.54% of the total equity in 2009, it was only 8.54% of the total equity in the

How important are cultural values in the formation of human rights Essay

How important are cultural values in the formation of human rights - Essay Example Although members of the Western culture have developed worldwide organizations addressing human rights issues, there are vast differences between the way that Western values address the nature of the individual in comparison to values of other cultures. Through aspects of work, feminism, and punishment, there is a great variety of value administration towards addressing the rights of members of a society. The nature of human rights as they are practiced within a region are determined by the values of the relevant culture that has control over the ideological philosophies that inform public policy. Value Diversity What is culture? When speaking of culture, it is necessary to understand that any discussion of culture will include an â€Å"implied other†, thus defining one group as different from another (Storey 2006: 1). The truth about the concept of culture, from some perspectives, is that it divides people much more definitely than is actually appropriate. Being human allows for the same motivations for behaviors, the needs for life not changing from one regional setting to the next. Human beings need to be warm enough, cool enough, satisfy their hungers, and satisfy their bodily needs. Everything that is done is an extension of basic human needs and the way in which the environment lends support to those fulfillments. How life is framed for supporting these needs is how culture is defined. If one looks at Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, for purposes of understanding the nature of human need fulfillment, one can see how all people share the same focused needs, that it is just the semantics of how those needs are approached that change from one region to the next (see Appendix 1). Motivations emerge from the bottom of the pyramid up, each level of need reflected through the behaviors and activities of each region of human development, no matter what that level of development and despite frameworks that vary from one set of people to the next. Culture is defined by frameworks that support needs, rather than through differences in basic human needs. Thus, human rights, despite the differences that are appreciated from one culture to the next, are not different. It is only the introduction of power that changes the way in which one culture will define how people are treated. Those in power will assert their authority by manipulating people through threats and rewards towards their human needs. Deprive a man of basic physical needs, and the motivations to follow the reigning authority will increase as those needs are fulfilled by that authority. Deprive those needs and not fulfill them and the next rebellious force that comes along promising to fulfill those needs will gain support. How human rights are defined is about the political frameworks in which needs are addressed and fulfilled. However, this still does not fully explain or define culture. There are general terms in which to define culture. Storey (2006: 1) suggests that a good broad definition of culture can be considered by saying it is a â€Å"general process of intellectual, spiritual, and aesthetic development†. This definition allows for the separation between the diversity of culture and the cohesion of human needs as universal. People are essentially the same through each incarnation of culture. The differences are in the interpretations that are created about how to address needs, not from within the human condition. What people come to believe is a

Domestic Violence and Health Consequences Research Proposal

Domestic Violence and Health Consequences - Research Proposal Example mestic abuse or spouse abuse is when a family member is suppressed or dominated by another member, partner or ex-partner in a psychological or a physical manner. According to Buzawa (2002), â€Å"Domestic violence is operationally defined as violence between intimates living together or who have previously cohabited.† Domestic violence usually takes place between spouses and is also called spousal abuse but it can also occur among people living together that is, among brothers, child and parent, sisters, friends and non-married intimate partners. People from various races, sexes, religions and cultural backgrounds sexes can be the victims of domestic violence. It occurs and affects all kinds of people and couples. Domestic Violence doesn’t just affect a way a person acts, but it affects their health as well. Domestic violence is defined as behavior used by one person in a relationship to control another. The relationship can be between married or unmarried couples, separated or dating, gay or lesbian. Domestic violence includes, keeping a partner away from calling his/her friends or family, withholding money, threatening or harming physically, calling names or putdowns, stalking, intimidation and abusing sexually. It can occur occasionally, on and off or very often. The intensity of harm can be mild, severe and also can go up to homicide. However emotional, psychological and financial abuse is not considered criminal violence like physical abuse but may lead to criminal violence. Domestic abuse caught attention only after womans movement in 1970s, particularly feminism and women’s rights which was focused on the wives being physically assaulted by their husbands. And only after the mens movement the abuse of men by women has caught attention. Domestic violence can have some very serious physical and mental effects on the victims as well as the children of a family where domestic violence occurs, and they are more likely to be ignored or to get

Computer Software Taxation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Computer Software Taxation - Essay Example As a preliminary matter, it must be noted that attempts to tax computer software have long been particularly troublesome. How a taxing authority decides to classify sales transactions involving computer software determines whether it will be subjected to sales/use tax or treated as exempt. It is here that, in attempting to classify computer software, a number of state authorities and judicial bodies have struggled to forge a uniform approach. Uniformity and consistency, to be certain, have proven elusive ideals. This essay will examine the sales/use tax implications for transfers of computer software, particularly to the electronic delivery of computer software, in an effort to demonstrate how more consistency and uniformity might be brought to the issue. In order to understand how electronic delivery has become an interesting issue, however, it is first important to understand how and why the electronic delivery of computer software has become a viable option for avoiding the imposition of sales tax in some jurisdictions. States began to implement sales/use tax schemes beginning in the 1930s in an effort to raise revenues (Morse, 1997). These taxes were levied on retail sales made within the states, they developed into a primary source of revenue for the states, and the mobility of the internet and computer software has since then made many states quite eager to apply their sales taxes to this burgeoning area of commerce. A sales tax is designed to impose an excise tax for retail transactions within a state whereas the use tax is designed to impose an excise tax for goods purchased outside of a state but subsequently used or maintained within the state. The taxes in this way are complementary. That states became extraordinarily interested in imposing sales taxes on an emerging industry is hardly surprising. What is surprising, on the other hand, is the tremendous conflict generated by attempts to tax transactions involving computer software. Legislation and regulations were rushed through; frequent m odifications were required because the implications of certain policies, both legally and economically, were not well-considered in advance. In many respects, the relationship between sales taxes and sales of computer software has been messy at best, and nearly incomprehensible at times. In Ohio, a sales tax was enacted in 1934. As noted by a leading tax practitioner, When Ohio sales tax was first imposed, and for many years thereafter, the taxes applied to all sales of tangible personal property unless otherwise exempt. This prompted many disputes over the nature of the transaction: tangible personal property, real property or a service. The latter two were not listed as potentially taxable sales. Historically, the exclusion from personal, professional and insurance services has been provided in R.C. 5739.01(B) (last para.). Judicial tests developed to help taxpayers make meaningful distinctions among the various types of transactions (tangible personal property vs. real property vs. services) for sales tax purposes (Ehler, 2007: 1). Nearly every state,

Compare and contrast the different connections Essay

Compare and contrast the different connections - Essay Example Firstly, with respect to Buddhism, the reader can acknowledge the direct meaning of the term â€Å"karma† within the Buddhist tradition relates to action or doing. Within this understanding, there is a further separation between meanings as karma refers to actions that come from a sentient being and those that refer to the entire karmic teaching that encompasses the entire universe (Ciurtin 493). Within this, it is clear to understand that karma is not only something that is represented between human relations, but a static and very real concept that helps to define the universe itself and the mechanisms through which humans interact with one another. Perhaps the most basic level of understanding that exists within the Western world with reference to karma is with relation to the Hindu understanding of what it represents. As a direct result of the Hindu focus on reincarnation and the importance of allowing for positive deeds to determine whether or not one will achieve a higher station in the afterlife, karma within Hinduism is intrinsically tied to good deeds and good thoughts being rewarded and attributable to reciprocity in both the current life and the afterlife. Not surprisingly, by contrast and comparison, bad deeds and bad thoughts experience reciprocity in this life as well as the afterlife as well; within the Hindu tradition (Sharma 29). From such an understanding, the reader can assert that of the three religions that have thus far been discussed, it is the Hindu tradition that places the most immediate emphasis on karmic tradition and the need to integrate with it as a means of ensuring the afterlife and intrinsic happ iness within the present. Moreover, as a direct result of the karmic tradition within Hinduism and the belief that all living creatures have a soul, the need to protect those creatures and

IAS 40 Investment Property Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

IAS 40 Investment Property - Essay Example There has been a widely held debate in terms of a need to classify a property as an investment property or a property which is in use by the owner. International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) provides a clear cut difference between the property which is intended to be held as investment and the property to be held for the purpose of use other than any investment purpose (Deloitte, 2012). On the other hand, if Generally Accepted Accounting Principles are taken into consideration, then there cannot be found any difference between the two as such. However IFRS has recognized the need for providing specific guidance especially for the property which is to be held by the owner for the purpose of investment (Deloitte, 2012).This article aims to study the various impacts of IAS 40 â€Å"Investment Property† with respect to different elements. The paper is structured in such a manner that first section highlights the overview of IAS 40 in which a brief history, definition, obje ctive and scope of Investment Property is briefly discussed. Second part of this article outlines at the accounting treatment of Investment Property such recognition, measurement and disclosure requirements are explained in detail. Next section provides a brief comparison of IFRS and GAAP in respect of Investment Property followed by a section which illustrates an example reproduced from the annual report of a publicly listed company. Discussion and conclusion of IAS 40 will summarize this article.

History and Analysis of city Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

History and Analysis of city - Assignment Example Located at north latitude of 39 degrees 56’ and east longtitude of 116 degrees 20’, Beijing grandly reposing along the north most part of the north China plain; along with the northwest is the Shanxi province and inner Mongolian plain, and from the east is the Bohai sea. Among the neighborhood provinces are the Hebei province and Tianjin to the southeast. Beijing as being considered as one of the three mega cities of China under the direct jurisdiction of the central government is divided into 10 districts and 8 respective counties. The people of Beijing are enjoying the moderate continental climate. 600 to 700 millimeters is the average rainfall Beijing receives yearly and much of it falls in late June, July, and August. Spring is dry and dusty and the best season being considered in Beijing, as well as in the whole of China is the autumn. Beijing serves as the political and cultural center of the modern China. It was the considered as the capital of many dynasties dur ing the past, ancient times. Everything in this place picturesque the aura of the past history, battles, origins and the sensations present in this place will lead encourage anyone to feel the deep respect for the city that holds stories dated back to its origin. Taihang Mountains Beijing claimed to be a gulf by the historians and geologist two to three million years ago. The geographical distribution of Beijing is very significant to be called â€Å"Beijing Gulf†. Beijing is enclosed by Taihang Mountains located at the west and Yanshan to the north, to the east is the Bohai Bay and in front of the Hebei plain to the south. According to geologist and historians, the melting of ice and snow during spring carried enormous amount of mud from the mountains to the gulf. This was transformed to be alluvial plain and is now known to be Beijing. Mountains that surround Beijing serves as the protection cover from the northern strong winds. From the east part blew the wet air, huge pla in stretched far to the southland and wide lengthy rivers and streams are some of the features that this place is made suitable environment for human to live and settle down. Inhabitants of this place are also blessed with temperate climate and plentiful rainfall that suits to agricultural activities. History of Beijing Peking Man Anthropologist’s claim that evidences shows manifestations that more than half a million years ago, in the southwest suburbs lived a Peking man. Climate condition during that time was warmer and compared to the present climate of Beijing. Relics of the Peking man was found as well as the stone tools, how the fire was used up to the tools being used way back 18000 ago. It is considered as the earliest cultural relics China have recorded in the history. The true significance of the city’s origin, tracing back 2,000 years ago, started in the period of the Western Zou Dynasty dated 11th century BC to 771 BC. The feudal lords during this time were given by the emperor plots of land in which one of the plot given was called â€Å"Ji City†. This is considered as the first city in Beijing history. During the Eastern Zhou Period dated 476 BC to 221 BC, the Ji kingdom was abolished and replace by â€Å"Yan Kingdom† but JI remains as the capital during that time. When china was unified by Emperor Qin Shi Huang, Beijing has been considered as a strategic place in China’s northern part. Beijing was called â€Å"

The effects of retail channel integration through the use of Essay

The effects of retail channel integration through the use of information technologies on Firm performance - Essay Example The article â€Å"The effects of retail channel integration through the use of information technologies on Firm performance† gives a vivid insight into the strategy that can be employed to integrate activities across multiple channels. This resolution lies in the use of information technology, a solution that offers a promising opportunity for most of the retail firms. This is because it is directed towards the enhancement of the relationship that exists between them and their customers. This is, in addition to improving the performance, of the firm in virtually all sectors. This can be tied to the fact that the goal of most firms is to improve people’s lives through their services and products. This is, in addition to, making profits that can enable them stay in the market for a long time. Throughout the article, the authors have focused on the constructive effects of information technology just to encourage those who are not into it to try out. They base this on the f act that by integrating both traditional and contemporary Channels within the retail industries efficiency and integration is improved. These effects, in one way or another, function to the act of the firm as well as customers who are among the key stake holders in any given firm. Another fact is that environment has a role to play because its dynamism is a sure moderating factor of the effects brought about by competence and modernization. All these attributes are aimed at inciting firms to employ this technique in both the retail and service sectors especially to those firms that have both physical and online operation. (Khosrowpou, 2006). Critique of article In the modern world of business, there has been increased shift towards the creation of positive environment that enhances productivity and efficiency. Thus, why many firms resolve to employ CRM software to provide a dependable platform for both customers and firms. This, in part, corresponds to the message in the article dis cussed. However, even though there is the persistence of adoption of technology, it should be noted that it is not for all companies to use it for some use â€Å"excel and outlook† in a stationary surroundings to uphold their information. In such a company, high technology such as use of CRM software is undoubtedly inappropriate. Therefore, the article has not emphasized on what companies are eligible to this high technology, for this is most prominent in growing businesses who are obliged to manage customer’s information with reliable software especially in the constantly changing business environment (Sambumurthy, 2003). However, the article has a valuable message concerning the ways in which businesses can manage change. This is because the modern day organizations have become complex, uncertain and more unpredictable, and, therefore, invention of ways of overcoming these challenges. Therefore, the advent of globalization demands that companies keep themselves up-to -date either through the latest technology or management fad (Lin-Bin et al, 2010). This vertical integration has numerous effects on the factors that lead to firm’s performance such as increasing firm size and reducing uncertainty. However, it has also its own

An Analysis of Satrapi’s Persepolis Essay Example for Free

An Analysis of Satrapi’s Persepolis Essay Persepolis presents the Islamic Revolution in Iran through the point of view of a child who questions the most fundamental practices and assumptions of Islam. Growing in a household that frowns upon the dictates of Islamic fundamentalism at a time when there is a growing presence of Islamic fundamentalists, the point of view in the graphic book offers a different look into the local Islamic movement in Iran. Through that perspective, my understanding is that the movement placed the people within the limits of a religious fence that does not give room for questions. Challenging the dictates of the Islamic institution is also seen as a challenge to the religion itself, which in turn explains why those who openly opposed the movement were physically harmed by the advocates of the Islamic Revolution. My understanding of the impact of the Islamic Revolution in Iran is that it caused people like Marjane Satrapi’s child character in Persepolis to develop an attitude that tries to resist the forces of the movement. At least in terms of forming a household behavior deviating from the principles put forward by the movement, the child is able to question her surroundings and find the answers to satisfy her desire to be fully aware of what is happening around her. In general, I see the Islamic Revolution as a double-edged sword—while it rebuilds and strengthens the piety of the Muslims to their religion and its edicts, it also threatens to lose the devotion of those who are against some of the principles advocated by the movement. Unfortunately, the movement creates a wide gap between those who are for the movement and those who are against it, dividing the believers into two extreme opposites which defeat the essence of religion. Some of the cultural and political issues raised by Satrapi’s narrative include the negative response of Islam towards the Western societies, the conflict between fundamentalism and the changing trends in the modern world, and the issue of sacrificing or repressing individual liberty in exchange for following stringent religious doctrines. In the narrative, the parents of the child try to expose their child to the Western culture right in the midst of the conflict in Iran. They gave her posters of Iron Maiden and Kim Wilde and they drink wine in their home despite the fact that their religion forbids them to do so. Her parents are Marxists and they try to teach her about the glaring evils of the Iranian regime. These things indicate that Iran at that time was a country where there is no stability in terms of politics and culture. The fact that the Islamic fundamentalists at that time tried to repress those who were against their principles suggests the apparent conflict that creates the impression of turmoil. There was a struggle and it was one that was far from being over. The conflict between fundamentalism and the Western world present in Iran is best seen in terms of the attempt of the Islamic fundamentalists to do the opposite of what most democratic Western societies practice. While most democratic Western societies encourage their citizens to practice social liberty and freedom of expression, Islamic Iran under the clutches of the fundamentalists are trying to â€Å"veil† their society, in a manner of speaking, from the influence of the Western societies. In a way, the fundamentalists do not only discourage the Iranians from replicating the beliefs and practices of the Western societies; they also give sanctions to those who attempt to become religious subversives. Satrapi’s graphic novel comments on those issues by presenting the conflicts in Iran from the life of a little girl who, despite being a child, sees her Iranian society as a crumbling society, whose principles do not promote the interests of the people but rather promote the interests of the religion. The strip also injects a bit of humor on the issue, using language that invokes comedy along with the horror of some of the images in the strips. The use of humor indicates that the weight of the issues involved in the Islamic Revolution is so heavy that it leaves no space for the lighter side of life. Instead, the movement rejects all assumptions of gaiety in religion and culture simply because it sees those two things as entirely serious matters that require even the most harassing and physically daunting sanctions to those who stand against its way. Islamic fundamentalists are portrayed in the strip as extremely violent individuals who are more than willing to inflict harm to their fellow Muslims if only to further the goals of the movement. They are portrayed in a negative light precisely because they are seen as agents of conservative religious principles that fail to recognize the worth of individuals. They oppose those who oppose them up to the point of assaulting them if only to silence their opposition or to put an end to those who confront the movement with questions and arguments. I think that the portrayal of the Islamic fundamentalists in the graphic novel is closer to the truth than one can begin to imagine. I think that it is also honest portrayal although I am somehow tempted to believe that some of the illustrations of the fundamentalists are not fair on their part. For one, it is a fact that violence has been a part of the Islamic fundamentalist movement in the past. In fact, religious jihad is an integral part of the Islamic faith, promoting violence for the name of Allah and so as to quash the presumed enemies of the religion. Violence in protests against the religion arises because of the intolerance of the fundamentalists towards those who oppose them. I understand that, perhaps, the graphic descriptions of the fundamentalists in the strips were only part of the observations of Satrapi in her life. However, I do think that there is a deep reason as to why these fundamentalists act the way they do. I believe that their violent actions are results of their deep ties with their religion and these strong ties cannot be opposed or deposed by those who think otherwise. The nature of the antagonists in Satrapi’s graphic novel is fierce and violent whereas the nature of the antagonists in Lorrie Moore’s â€Å"How to Become a Writer† is one that adheres to convention. In a way, the antagonists in Persepolis—the Islamic fundamentalists—do not permit deviance from the status quo or from the tradition. Instead, these antagonists strongly advocate the practice of the old and traditional religious habits. They promote intolerance so that the challenges to their beliefs will not displace what they see as the proper way of living under Islamic tenets. On the other hand, the antagonists in Moore’s article exhibit conventional behaviors. They seek to influence the protagonist to follow the accepted conventions of writing because they see the protagonist’s literary style as inappropriate and technically inefficient. In forcing the protagonist to stick to the rules and convention instead of deviating from them, the antagonists limit the development of the protagonist as a writer who is not only unconventional but is also one who is a master of the freedom of expression. To a certain degree, the antagonists in Moore’s article and in Satrapi’s novel share the similar characters of intolerance and conservative attitude. They do not subscribe to the idea of changing the status quo or of allowing others to deviate from the convention because they do not find it suitable to what they are espousing. Works Cited Moore, Lorrie. â€Å"How to Become a Writer. † Self-Help. New York: Knopf, 1985. Satrapi, Marjane. â€Å"The Trip. † Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood. New York: Pantheon, 2003.

Advantage and Disadvantages of Japanese Nationals Working in the Philippines Essay Example for Free

Advantage and Disadvantages of Japanese Nationals Working in the Philippines Essay â€Å"Teaching is learning. Teaching is enriching. Teaching is challenging, it’s trying in unimaginable ways. Teaching is motivating, it’s inspiring. Teaching is frustrating, it’s frightening. Teaching is growing. Teaching is loving. Teaching is a blessing. And being a teacher means that I have a lot to learn.† (anjaligill, 2011) A quote I have read on one article on the internet that actually touched my heart. I am not a teacher but appreciate the hardships of teachers throughout their journey to imparting to us student all they can for us to have a better future. Yes we have a lot of teachers here in our country but learning is not limited to only our country. Because of media and many other sources or information we have been exposed to other cultures and languages from many different countries. Thus which lead to us wanting to learn other culture and languages. Some of these languages are Korean, Japanese, Spanish, and French. And who else are more capable in teaching us these languages than the natives of theses languages themselves. That is why this study aims to shed a light on the existence of Japanese Language teachers that are working in the country. The first part of this paper is going to touch upon the rules that’s the immigration imposes on these aliens that wish to enter the country. What kind of permits and visas that must be secured in order to be able to work. Also it talks about the role of the Department Of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in allowing these aliens to have a fair and legal job here. The second part of my report talks about the different issues that these aliens have encountered over their years of working in the Philippines. For years now we have been hearing about the melodramatic life of an OFW, we’ve had a lot of articles on the different experience they have out there. But have we ever given a thought about these foreigners that come to our country not as tourist, but to look for jobs? Probably as teachers? What more these Japanese nationals working in Davao as Japanese language teachers? We’ve been so focused on Filipinos that we forget to check on these other people who are also making a living here in our country. This paper will try to shed a light on what are the most common difficulties and what are the measures they took in order to be able to overcome these obstacles. And I am hoping to gather these datas through interviewing some Japanese nationals residing in the country specially Davao. A. What are the necessary visa and permits these Japanese nationals must secure in order to be able to work in the country? B. Are they given enough compensation and benefits in their jobs? C. Why of all other country would they choose Philippines? D. What are the different experiences they have here? For the last part this paper will try to compile the gathered data and express what are the common advantages and disadvantages of experienced by these Japanese Language teachers working in the Philippines? Those are just some of a few things this study aims to shed a light on, and to give the readers a deeper understanding on their situation through their experiences. Review of Related Literature 1. Japanese Language as a Profession When we hear the word Japanese Language most of us would think: oh that’s all about kanji!† â€Å"That is a very hard language to learn†. Yes it is true, it is not an easy language to learn but it is also one of the most interesting of all. With all the variations in the conjugation of every word, to all the particles for every sentence, but most especially to the different strokes in their unique 3 writing styles namely hiragana katakana and kanji. In the beginning yeah it will be hard but in the long run you will be able to appreciate all the hardships you have gone through in order to reach that level. So because of that many people have engaged in learning the language. Some would say that if you really want to learn something you have to do it yourself. But then again because of the complexity of this language it has become hard for others. That is why we have come to the conclusion that who else is more capable to teach us the complicated and very meticulous language than these Japanese nationals themselves? But then again this poses a very big hindrance when it comes to language barriers. It is because before Japan has been a very secluded country that doesn’t want to open up to other country. That’s is why even though some Japanese wanted to teach Japanese it would be hard for them since that not all Japanese know English and since English is the universal language communication and explanation would be hard. But as years pass by and as Japan slowly open their doors to other countries, international colleges started to rise and because of this the Japanese nationals studying in such colleges are being exposed to the word and thus they became aware of the eagerness of other people to learn their language which triggered a domino effect to theses Japanese to teach them. 2. Philippine and Japan relation in terms of work Over the years the Philippines was known by the world as major exporter of skilled workers. They even have this saying that there is no country in the world that does not have Filipinos in it. From that this study aims to focus on the Japanese citizens working in the country. For decades there has been a noticeable relationship between Japan and the Philippines. May it be in terms of trading of goods, and even official development assistance funds also known as the (ODA). The relationship of these two countries not only varies in goods and monetary sector but even in human resources. The Philippines is reputed to be the leading exporter of labor in the world, ranging from the semi-skilled to professional and technical workers (CORTEZ, 2009). This greatly impacted on the yearly remittances that the OFW’s give to the country. At the same time Japanese engineers, managers, experts and other skilled workers have entered the Philippines to accompany, implement and manage the huge direct investments and overseas development assistance programs of Japan (Tereso S. Tullao, Jr. and Michael Angelo A. Cortez, 2004). The Japanese have remained the largest group of foreign workers in the country over the years (OECD 2001). This then greatly impacted the country in terms of tourism. 3. Naturals working overseas Due to the growing economic crisis in the world most people opt to work in other country to look for â€Å"greener pastures†. Approximately eight million Filipinos are overseas, representing almost ten percent of the nation’s population (Commission on Filipinos Overseas, 2004). And one good example to these is the growing migration rate in the Philippines. Where in most Filipinos think that because of the economic crisis in the Philippines and the Low salary that working overseas became a better option. Yes they may have big salaries and they may be able to experience other culture but at the end of the day these OFW’s would have to sacrifice being with their family for money. 4. Language Barriers In order to be able to teach students, communication is important and in communication Language is vital. This is what makes learning easy. Because through language student will be able to understand what the teacher wants to deliver. But in teaching language something these language barriers pose a very big problem. Especially for those language teachers who are native speakers of the language they are teaching and only know a little English. English, with its many varieties, is a language of international and therefore intercultural communication. (Sharifian, 2009). But then we all know that there are still some countries that are not open to accepting English as an international language and Japan is one of them. The people being raised to love their own country in other words in the ways of patriotism it became hard for them to open up an accept changes being brought by the modern world. Definition of terms 1) (AEP) Alien Employment Permit is a document issued by the Department of Labor and Employment which authorizes a foreign national to work in the Philippines. 2) Alien shall refer to the foreign nationals who intend to work in the country. Japanese Workers I. Immigration All foreign nationals can freely enter the Philippines with only a passport and other travel documents for business, leisure, and social visits. The Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 states Foreigners or â€Å"non-quota immigrants† may be admitted without considering such numerical limitations (CASTRO, August). The country has not been strict on allowing foreigners to enter, In fact Nationals from some countries are allowed to enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding twenty-one (21) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination (Bureau of Immigration 2007-2008), Japan being one of these countries are allowed to enter the country without visa. They must present for admission into the Philippines unexpired passports or official documents in the nature of passports issued by the governments of the countries to which they owe allegiance or other travel documents showing their origin and identity. II. Department Of Labor and Employment (DOLE) But when it comes to employment the Philippines is very strict at letting foreigners to work in the country. These aliens need to secure certain visas and permits before they can actually work here. Some of these are the a)Alien Employment Permit (AEP), b)Special Work permit, and the c)9g Prearranged Employment Visa. a) Alien Employment Permit (AEP) is a document issued by the Department of Labor and Employment which authorizes a foreign national to work in the Philippines. This permit must be petitioned by a company to allow a foreigner to work locally and is the requirement for a 9g visa as well as several other visas. The employment permit may be issued to a non-resident alien or to the applicant employer after a determination of the non-availability of a person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing at the time of application to perform the services for which the alien is desired (Labor Code of the Philippines PD 442, Article 40). Article 41 of the Labor Code provides: â€Å"After the issuance of employment permit, the alien shall not transfer to another job or change his employer without prior approval of Secretary of Labor and Employment.† In addition the alien who is found to be working without an AEP or an expired AEP shall pay a fine of Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000) for every year to the Regional Director (DOLE Department Order No. 75-06 (Series of 2006)) and shall be subject to deportation after service of his sentence (Ferrolino, 2009). b) Special Work Permit is given by employers to foreigners that will only work for a brief time in the Philippines usually less than 6 months that can be extended for another 6 months and they are not required to apply for a (AEP) from DOLE ( Triple i Consulting Inc., 2005). c) 9g Prearranged Employment Visa is given to any foreign national who will be employed in the Philippines and occupying a technical, executive, managerial or a highly confidential position in a company for at least one year, can apply for an employment visa under Sec. 9(g) of the Philippine Immigration Act. III. Issues/Problems 1) What are the necessary visa and permits these Japanese nationals must secure in order to be able to work in the country? As to the rules of immigration and DOLE these Japanese nationals knowing that they are considered as aliens must be able secure an AEP before they can work. But according to one of my respondents who is ms. Ariza Okumura, that she only secured a working visa which is valid for only two years, before she got to work in our school. 2) Are they given enough compensation and benefits in their jobs? When it comes to compensations and benefits we all know that Philippines really give a very low compensation rate in terms of salary. According to the National Wages and Productivity Commission minimum wage in the National Capital Region ranges from P456.00 to P419.00 depending on the type of job, while in Davao city it ranges from P301.00 to P270.00. Clearly this kind of wages will not be enough to support a family that is why these families that are working here in Davao always keep a tight budget on their money. According to Miss Ariza Okumura, a Japanese Language teacher in Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku â€Å"if I live for a long time for example ten (10) years or more? The salary is okay. But if if have plan of one year or three years? The salary is low.† Mr. Tanino also a Japanese Language Teacher in MKD said â€Å"the salary is low†. True enough even these aliens or Japanese nationals to be exact who is working here in the Philippines have also experienced the very low salary here. In another interview I conducted this time it is from Takako Okamoto, also a Japanese language teacher in MKD she said â€Å"I think it is enough, for Japanese nationals’ teacher†. From this we can see the different points of view of these Japanese in terms of the compensation given to them. But one thing is for sure, they do not want the money, it’s their love of teaching and imparting what they know to those who are willing to learn. 3) Why of all other country would they choose Philippines? Some would say that Philippines is a good place to relax because of its serene beauty and it is also close to nature because it is rich in natural resources. The country being an archipelago means it is close to beaches which attracts tourist from all over the world to come here. A few would even say they want to go to the Philippines because of Filipinos have been known to the world as hospitable kind of people. But when it comes to employment there have been also very many speculations upon the capacity of the country to cater workers because of the ongoing crisis in its economy and a whole lot more. But even so after all these negative comments and speculations some still chose to work here. One good example is Ariza Okumura, MKD teacher she said during our interview that it was here choice to work here and when I asked her why this is what she told me â€Å"before when I was student we had a school trip and I came here in Davao. Also I really want to teach Japanese in foreign country†. Almost all of the Japanese language teachers I have interviewed said the same thing. That it was in their own will to go to the Philippines. In a follow up question I had which was â€Å"did you originally come here as a teacher?† I was amazed at their answers. Takako Okamoto, a MKD teacher said â€Å"I chose Philippines as a place for volunteer work.† Tanino, who is also a MKD teacher, said he first came to the Philippines to work for a company named sharp. From their answers it was clear that teaching was not their real objective in coming here, but the longer they stayed the more they fell in love with the country and its people. â€Å"During the time I met many Filipino Filipina and then they took care of me well and then I don’t like to forget everything they did for me. After one year four months I came back to Japan and decided to help the Filipino resident in the Philippines as Japanese Language teacher.† Said Okamoto sensei. 4) What are the different experiences they have here? We can finish up all day if we talk about experiences, but these are one of the parts of the lives of the people which make us actually say that we are alive. Through these experiences we learn and from these learning we can adjust in order to make things better. When it was time to ask them this question I observed that they had a very hard time in picking which experience they wanted to share. One of them said that being with students everyday are counted as one of their memorable experience, one also said that seeing the students learning is their most unforgettable experience. But there is one story that actually touched my heart. It was from Takako Okamoto she told me â€Å"actually he’s a last year graduator. He hated any kind of teacher, he hated study Japanese especially. He was lazy to attend all the class he was lazy to pass shukudai (assignments), and then sometimes he was against to the teachers. But I have been continuing to approach to him. Siguro very Samok sa kanya *how about your shukudai ? *how many times absent you might be dropped! Like that. Whenever I see him I say something. Finally he changed, he changed totally. He had a focus on study in nihongo but it was already 4th year. But I found his changes. Before RP Japan I was telling him, I know you are good at nihongo. You try to attend speech contest in RP Japan. In his speech he was saying to me thank you, like saying because of me he was changed. But for one week he got dengue and was absent. Nobody expected he could attend the speech. But he came, and said *Sensei I’m Here.† It may not mean as much to you but as I saw her as she was telling me this story you would see the happiness in her eyes. The kind of happiness that meant showed how their job as a teacher can be very rewarding, that even the small thing could make a big difference. Conclusion I admit I started late in doing this paper. But in those limited amount of time left, I was still able to learn new things through this. First is the importance of time. Know this is not port of my paper but I was able to learn and appreciate time, and how to use it wisely and productively. Second is the importance of work, as to why people look for jobs. Another is I learned to appreciate the teachers more. This happened during the times I was able to interview a few of them. At first I was hesitant in conducting interviews because I was afraid of the teachers, but then I said to myself â€Å"what’s there to lose?† So when I started the interviews I realized that I should not be afraid of these teachers because their only goal it to teach is to become a better person. That they are doing what they do not to make us suffer but to make us learn, I was able to see that â€Å"the students are the only ones who are making themselves suffer†. I also came to a conclusion that in all we do there’s a good and bad side to it. Isaac Newton’s third law of motion said that â€Å"For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction†. In life that is also proven true, with everything we do, even in may it be as a person, as an employee, etc. there will always be an advantage and a disadvantage. Yes Japanese language is very interesting but at the same time it is also very complicated and hard to learn. Even the Japanese Language teachers themselves said that its hard and it really takes time. That even they as a teacher they also have to adjust to their approach to the students. Which brings us to the conclusion that teaching as a language teacher is not just a profession but also a lifestyle, where in it has its up and downs, the good and the bad, and its own advantages and disadvantages. Bibliography Triple i Consulting Inc. (2005). Retrieved february 21, 2013, from http://www.tripleiconsulting.com: http://www.tripleiconsulting.com/Amain/philippines-business-guides-tips-and-news-blog/181-work-visas-in-the-philippines anjaligill. (2011, august 19). What Teaching Means to Me and Why it is Important†¦. Retrieved january 20, 2012, from www.teachforus.org: http://anjaligill.teachforus.org/2011/08/29/what-teaching-means-to-me-and-why-it-is-important/ CASTRO, J. M. (August, 11 2009). Philippines Visas, Permits and Immigration. Retrieved february 6, 2013, from http://www.expatforum.com: http://www.expatforum.com/articles/visas-permits-and-immigration/philippines-visas-permits-and-immigration.html CORTEZ, M. A. (2009). Japan-Philippines Free Trade Agreement: Oppotunities for the movement of workers. RITSUMEIKAN INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS , 126. Ferrolino, T. (2009). Employment of Foreigner

Informal Groups within an Organisation

Informal Groups within an Organisation Abstract Organisations contain formal groups which have been put into place by the organisational management to perform specific tasks in order to further the aims of the organisation. In addition to the formal groups, there are informal groups which can assume an existence in organisations as a result of the mutually shared interests of the individuals who are a part of the organisation. Informal groups exist purely because of mutual interests and have no formal mandate from the organisation. The membership of the informal groups seeks to satisfy some need by belonging to these groups. These needs may include needs for security, knowledge acquisition, informal attempts to shape organisational policy, family, social interaction etc. Leadership position in such groups is freely accorded by the group membership based on qualities that are considered to be critical for the satisfaction of the needs of the moment, with changing needs resulting in changes of leadership. Informal groups in formal o rganisations can be powerful and important because they have the capability of supporting or opposing organisational aims. Organisational managers should attempt to acquaint themselves with the informal groups in their areas of jurisdiction so that informal discussions with these groups may be possible and attempts may be made to change their norms if they prove to be contrary to the organisational aims. Informal groups can be found in any organisational setting including clubs, schools, health care units, industries etc. The motives behind their formation are a part of human nature and it should not be necessary to excessively interfere in the activities of informal groups unless they are proving to be destructive. In this essay, an attempt has been made to take a look at informal groups in organisations with a special emphasis on the informal groups to be found in a hospital ward. 1.1 Introduction Organisations exist in order to perform useful functions or tasks which will generate revenues or provide a service. In order to achieve organisational missions, teams may be established within the organisation which are organised around a set of objectives. A team or a group is, therefore, considered to be a number of people who have been brought together as a result of a desire to perform some function or accomplish a set of objectives. Groups and teams are formally created in order to provide a remedy for the dysfunction of bureaucratic structures that may be present in an organisation. Segmentation in organisations results in large problems being cut into sub – problems which are then cut into even smaller problems. These problems are then allocated to sub – units or components of sub-units which offer inputs to the problems or tasks and the solution to the whole consists of these inputs. Specially created groups within organisations may horizontally cut across exis ting boundaries and functions existing within organisations in an attempt to take advantage of lateral linkages. A management team or group with lateral linkages can therefore be created by the corporate management in order to better manage the organisation. Such groups which have been created as a result of the design choices and the development processes in an organisation are different from the informal groups which almost always come into existence in organisations if opportunities exist. The informal groups which can come into being within organisations can come about as a result of common interests, desire to learn and share knowledge and achieve specific objectives. These groups can also act to counter organisational function and the imposed standards of management. Standards of the informal groups are the standards of the group members which have not been imposed on them by anyone and certainly not by the organisational management. The leaders of the informal groups in organ isations will have power within the groups which can oppose the formal directives of the organisation or the organisational managers. Hence, it is important to realise that informal groups do exist within organisations and that they have an implicit code of ethics or an unspoken set of standards. In order to positively harness the power of the informal groups, it is important to understand group dynamics and to bring about changes in the informal group norms so as to support the formal organisation. [Arndt 1997]; [Onepine.Info 2005] The terms groups and teams are often used interchangeably and are important concepts in management literature. Groups can be found almost anywhere including schools, work organisations, families, and hospitals as well as in sports clubs. As opposed to a group, a team is expected to have some positive attributes to it. A team will have cohesion, cooperation and teamwork and groups are expected to develop into teams. A team is, therefore, a special type of group which has became sufficiently organised in order to fulfil a mission or a purpose. A group can consist of more then one individuals capable of interacting with each other who are aware of their membership within a group as well as their positive interdependence as they strive to achieve mutual goals. Although members of the group are most likely to have face-to-face interactions most of the time, they can also have interactions over the internet or other media once the group has been formed and members are known to each other. Informal groups will have communication processes which are smoother and less cumbersome then those of the formal organisation. Leadership status is mostly afforded to members who have access to information vital to the functioning of the group or the ability to distribute this information. Whereas formal groups come into existence as a result of organisation design, task allocation and decision making which result in communications and team learning, informal groups are formed as a result of mutually shared interests and are led by members with a strong commitment to the cause. Informal groups can provide a sense of belonging with friendship, support and affiliation along with a sense of identity as well as self esteem for its members. Informal groups can also serve as defence mechanisms for forces that can be too great for a single individual to resist and may also serve as a platform to develop a consensus amongst members about issues which can also be related to the organisation and which may have been regarded as being controversial. The members in an informal group can feel more secure, less anxious and more capable of facing threats such as the cruel behaviour of a supervisor. The leadership of the informal group mostly belongs to the member who is most capable of satisfying the needs of the group and this leadership changes with changing requirements and the ability to cater for the requirements of other members. Because the informal leader does not possess formal powers, therefore, the informal leader can be deposed if this leader cannot adequately satisfy the requirements of the members. Because the cohesiveness of the informal groups can be enhanced in the face of external threats, attempts to force a group to conform to organisational norms can backfire and it may be better to try and neutralise the group leader or to conduct reasonable dialogue. Informal groups can have norms, values and unspoken rules which may be necessary to perpetuate the exis tence of the group and in some groups violations of these rules or norms can carry severe penalties. Although informal groups become important and noticeable because they start to challenge the formal organisation, it must however, be realised that not all informal groups in organisations are harmful and some may in fact be serving a useful purpose such as knowledge sharing, helping members cope, generating ideas or pursuing hobbies. Apart from the work floor, informal groups can also exist as ‘communities of practice’ amongst professionals who are informally sharing knowledge, pursuing design excellence or in other ways controlling and generating knowledge or skills in an organisation. [Accel-Team.com 2005]; [Rupert 2004]; [Fiona 2004] Informal groups in organisations arise as a result of the interpersonal relationships of the members of a formal organisation and there are formal leaders who have authority because of the existence of a formal organisation as well as informal leaders who may be given deference by the employees because they have been able to assist in the satisfaction of some of their needs. Some of the leaders of informal groups or the ‘workers of influence’ can hold rather ordinary positions in the formal organisations but can be a force to be reckoned with because of their leadership of the informal organisation even though this leadership may be temporary or in transition. Without any formal mandate, leadership in the informal group may be based on knowledge, past services, seniority, personality attribute and the art of inducing compliance, a power relationship, the desire for the achievement of a goal or the emerging result of group interactions. Generally, groups do not act becaus e there are leaders but they acquire leaders to help them act. In a fee environment, the leader of the informal group will be the individual who will have a reciprocally rewarding relationship with the rest of the group. However, just like any other leader, the leader of the informal group will have a guiding vision, enthusiasm and a passion for action, integrity, maturity, knowledge, candour, trust, curiosity and daring. The reason why an informal group leader may not have succeeded in the organisation’s formal management structure could be due to a lack of formal qualifications or money and they may be perceived to be belonging to a different ‘class’ which is distinct from the formal managerial core. Power in the informal groups is vested by the peers and informal group leadership has influence over their members as well as the capability to exert an influence over managerial decision making. Hence, an informal organisation exists in parallel to the formal orga nisation and there is informal status that can be conferred on members of the organisation as distinct from the formal status in an organisation [Sandra 2004]; [Onepine.Info 2005] The development of formal as well as informal groups can be described in terms of Tuckman’s five-stage model consisting of the stages of forming or the process of group formation, storming in which individual search and conflicts occur, norming or the normalising of relationships between group members, performing during which peak group activity takes place and adjourning a stage when group members leave and are replaced by others. At the informal group level, where personal relationships are more significant, factors related to sociometry or the science within psychodrama may influence the informal relations between actors apart from considerations related to gain or protection from threats. The basic notion behind sociometry is the flow of feelings which can attract or repel individuals to each other and this is used to explain the inner structures of groups which also have an outer structure. The outer structure of a group may not fulfil the needs of the group members altho ugh such a structure will reflect the decision and responsibility structure of the group and attention should also be placed on relationships of attraction between members without which a group can loose its creative life. In a hospital ward, for instance, the formal structures consist of the nursing supervisors who are in charge of the ward and the doctors, but there is an element of interaction between the patients who are all in the ward because they have a need to get well and be looked after while they try to achieve this aim. There are no formal groups which have been put in place by the administration in a ward, but patients will tend to form informal groups because of their likes and dislikes as well as a need to cope with and survive their experience of ill health and get better. These informal groups will lend support to the members, help them when they need assistance, guide new members and may also take a stand against the formal administration of the ward consisting of the nurses and the doctors on duty if the interests of their members are threatened. [Diana 1996]; [Arndt 1997]; [Nathan 2004] In this essay, an attempt has been made to take a look at perspectives associated with informal groups within organisations and to consider the dynamics of such informal groups. An emphasis has been placed on attempting to understand the dynamics of informal groups by considering the situation in a hospital ward in which patients have been placed because of a joint need to get well and informal groups are formed in order to satisfy the needs of members. 2.1 The Development of Informal Groups in Organisations When creating formal groups in organisations, attempts are, or should be made to bring together individuals who are capable of harmoniously interacting with each other so that the group which has been created to accomplish a task can work at peak efficiency. In informal groups which are created spontaneously and not by an organisational dictate, the self interest of the individual members and a likeness for each other is what keeps the group together. Jacob L. Moreno (1892 – 1974) was the first to attempt to analyse group interactions using psychodrama and sociodrama, which are role playing techniques, in an attempt to analyse interpersonal relations. Members of the group will interact with each other and the behaviour of the group will have a tendency to modify the behaviour of the individual members, as was observed by Kurt Lewin (1890-1947). Most informal groups are controlled through leadership and the group discipline is maintained through internal pressure. In most infor mal groups, there is a respect for the individual and all members can participate in deciding things which are affecting them. However, once rules have been made, disobedience in certain groups can carry heavy penalties. Prison gangs are also a form of a group in which force and terror is used by the informal prison organisation to make members join and the penalty for disobedience can be very heavy. Hence, it is important for formal authorities to ensure that informal groups operating in an organisation are operating in a healthy and constructive manner with any conflict with the established authority lying within manageable and legal limits. Extreme behaviour in a group should be of concern to the law enforcement authorities and the group can no longer be described as an informal group. The humanist philosophy of Abraham Maslow (1908 – 1970) suggests that individuals are motivated by a dynamic hierarchy of needs including psychological, safety, love, esteem and self-actuali zation, with individuals moving up or down the ladder in order to satisfy their needs as best as possible. These needs of individuals are what keep informal groups together and in a hospital ward situation, the patients form informal groups in order to satisfy these wants. Responsibility, recognition and opportunities for growth along with opportunities for self actualization which cannot be satisfied in the formal organisation because of the specialisation of labour and command / obey directives as well as the control of activities are amongst the reasons why individuals in an organisation may want to join informal groups. According to Douglas McGregor (1906 -64), the average individual does not dislike work and has an acute interest in attempting to present solutions for organisational problems which can also motivate individuals to form informal groups. The strict division of labour in a formal organisation without the participation of the organisational members and the resulting dissatisfaction can also lead to the creation of informal groups in which members can participate and which have the capability to provide stronger inputs to the formal organisational hierarchies. There are many other evolving needs such as those involved with safeguarding the family, the community and the self in a hostile or alien ambiance which can cause individuals to form informal groups. Examples of such tendencies may include groups formed by expatriate workers or their spouses in foreign lands. [Arndt 1997]; [Malcolm 2000]; [Tim 2001]; [Betty 1997] In formal groups, there is a greater emphasis on task or goal-oriented activities which aim to get the job done rather then the maintenance-oriented activities which involve creating a good atmosphere, creating social-relationships and the general happiness as well as a state of well being for the members. The emphasis on task-oriented activities rather then the maintenance-oriented activities, however, does not mean that the maintenance-oriented activities are irrelevant. In fact every group tries to find a balance between the two and in a formal group, neglecting the maintenance-oriented activities can mean that the overall group starts to malfunction or a member who may be quite proficient at doing the job is not much of a success any longer. In an informal group, maintenance-oriented activities can be more important then they are in a formal group, although informal groups do have broad aims behind their creation. [Arndt 1997]; [Thomas 2004] All groups including informal groups exhibit a state of dynamism with new members arriving, getting accepted into the group, coming to terms with their status within the group, contributing and then leaving because they have found new places to go to or have developed new interests. Members must, however, have a reason to become a part of an informal group and most often the reason is that they have to be in the organisation to satisfy their economic wants or have been put into a situation or a place in which joining the local group can be beneficial. As new members of an organisation arrive on the scene, they are exploring and finding meanings in the new environment. Initial social contacts are limited and mostly existing members of the informal group will sound out the new arrivals, offer clarifications and provide support. In the forming stage of the group, dependency is rather high and the group leadership may want to exploit the situation in order to induct new members. In the s torming stage, the new individual member will start to exert their individuality and begin to come to terms with other members of the group and the group’s values as well as mode of operation. Personal conflicts can occur as differences in the roles and personalities of members are resolved. There can be competitions over status and positions as well as roles and responsibilities. A hostile environment can develop with members coming to term with reality. The position and the role of the informal group leaders and hierarchy may be questioned by the new arrivals but a realisation may sink in that there are benefits to be attained by the individual as well as the group because the members cannot all leave immediately. Dialogue, facilitation, coaching as well as discovery may take place as the group moves towards normalcy. In the norming stage, a level of understanding between members will develop after the new information and facts have been processed with an acceptance of the differences. Cooperative patterns will start to emerge in the group which are broadly acceptable and members will start discussing issues and making decisions on consensus. Tensions which had existed will start to disappear as group cohesion grows, although feelings of disenchantment may occur as a reaction towards authority of the formal organisation and the group leadership. The group members will try to become independent and adjust the norms of the group to be broadly suited to all and there may be a tendency to attack the group leadership in order to bring in greater democracy. [Arndt 1997]; [Robert 2002] The group will tend to move towards performing in line with its broad aims after the process of normalisation and will carry on with its day to day existence. The group members will have settled into their roles and will be valued for their talents and the contributions that they may be able to make to the group. Ways of improving the situation and enhancing the levels of happiness for all may be pondered on and implemented along with ways to neutralise any threats. Individual members may move towards building up better relationships with others in the group that they like. Excitement may once again enter into the group as a result of new members joining and some old members leaving because they have to move to new places that are located far from the place where a group is functioning. Adjournments from the group may be marked with rituals such as a dinner, a drink or a last conversation, with some members looking back while others looking towards their future. Departure of old memb ers and the induction of new members can move the group into an earlier stage in its dynamics with members coming to terms with new realities, roles and changes in the group composition. Loss of some departed members may be deeply felt and certain new members can be very refreshing, bringing in new ideas and to challenges to the group norms. [Onepine.Info 2005]; [Arndt 1997] 3.1 Sociometry at Work in Informal Group Interactions Interpersonal relationships in a group are important because they enable individuals in a group to perform their function and contribute to the objective of the group. Poor relationships in any group can cause a gulf to develop between the members or the group leaders and between members resulting in poor performance. Members may leave groups in which there are poor interpersonal relations or they may want to keep away from the activities of such groups. In formal groups, absenteeism, sick leave and poor work attitude may be the result of poor interpersonal relationships while an informal group can disintegrate in such a situation. Tele or the two-way flow of feeling, as distinct from empathy or transference which are one-way flow of feelings is the basis of individuals forming relationships and coming together to pursue common aims. Individuals are drawn together spontaneously by common motives in order to achieve certain aims. The forces of mutual attraction can be constantly chang ing within a group with individuals coming closer on the basis of various criteria. Hence, there are likely to be a number of constantly changing sub-groups within a group, with the group being kept together by a stronger common goal. The forces of tele may determine who may be found sitting to whom, the person whose advice is sought on problems and the member who is seen to be providing the leadership in a group. Members in a group may have relationships based on dependency, mutual respect and pairing or indecisive fight or flight type relations with a group’s leadership. The identity of an individual within a group will contain identities from many other groups including identities related to family, profession and place of residence, previous affiliations related to education, employment or membership of clubs as well as any special experiences including those related to culture. Individuals who are thinking of forming stronger affiliations with a group will be asking them selves questions related to inclusion as well as identity, control, influence, power and acceptance as well as intimacy. Attempts will be made to determine what an individual can become in a group, how much influence or control an individual may be able to exercise and if the individual will be liked and respected. Based on the answers to these questions and the alternatives that are likely to be available, the individual will form a relationship with a group. If a member’s expectations related to the group are responded to positively then greater energy is likely to result, alternatively anxiety and preoccupation with the self and a lack of interest may be the result of thwarted expectations. Strong group cohesion is likely if individuals are drawn to each other as a result of more then one factors of common interest which are enduring and not of transitory nature. Cohesion is demonstrated by spontaneity, sincerity and enthusiasm. Observing and analysing the affection, trust and advice networks in a group can assist in the determination of what is going on in a group and who is likely to be able to influence group behaviour and values. Such knowledge can be useful if the formal organisation wants to change the behaviour patterns of an informal group to be less damaging or supportive of the aims of the formal organisation. [Diana 1996]; [Robert 2002]; [John 1998] In a formal organisation, it is the informal networks of working relationships and the informal groups which can have a bearing on productivity and resistance to change. Managers must, therefore, try to keep the informal organisation in mind when implementing change and making decisions. It is important to know the key members of informal groups and have some sort of a dialogue and channels of communication open with them so that discussions based on reason may be initiated if there is a need to change some behaviour patterns. Misunderstandings, a lack of communication and dissatisfaction with some decisions of the formal organisational managers and their way of working can result in the informal network attempting to work in a manner that is contrary to the interests of the formal management and the organisation. Indications that this is happening may manifest itself in the form of apathy, a lack of interest in work and communications with the formal managers. Members of the informa l groups may try to conduct secret discussions in order to try and find a solution and there can be a sense of disillusionment with the organisation. Such wars are usually not healthy either for the organisation or the workers and the formal organisation can try to conduct a dialogue with the informal organisation in order to discus and explain matters which may improve the situation. [Cristiano 2004]; [Diana 1996]; [David 2001]; [John 1998] Some informal groups in an organisation may not have aims which are contrary to the interest of the organisation. Informal groups of professionals who may want to enhance their knowledge, knowledge workers, managers, sports and hobby groups etc can actually greatly benefit the organisational capabilities as well as prestige. Such groups can also assist the organisation by furthering their skills and using these skills to assist organisational aims such as those related to product design, management, marketing, sales etc. The formal organisation may choose to assist such groups within the resources that are available to the organisation. [Kristina 1999]; [Andrew 2004]; [John 1998] In the next section, an attempt is made to study the dynamics of informal groups in a hospital ward. Such a study can be instructive because a hospital ward is likely to be a place where the most idealised informal group formation is possible with there being a possibility of far fewer harsh forces at work in the hospital ward as compared to other settings. 4.1 Informal Groups in a Hospital Ward Treating and caring for the ill can be a challenging occupation and depending on the nature of the ward being considered, there can be a certain level of tension between the hospital staff and the patients. The nurses in the ward are more directly involved with the patients and come in contact with them far more often. The doctors are the senior managers of the formal hierarchy and remain relatively distant from the action whereas the patients and informal groups made up by the patients is the informal organisation. A children’s ward is the place where there is a minimal level of tension between the formal organisation and informal organisation consisting of the relatives of the sick kids. The kids themselves are too young to be making rational informal groups. Caring for the mentally ill or for adult patients in a depraved economic environment can result in serious frictions being generated between the ward staff and the groups formed by patients. Mentally ill patients can be very demanding while the adult patients may not be receiving the proper care in a depraved hospital because of a lack of resources. The circumstances presented in the novel Cancer Ward by Alexander Solzhenitsyn are instructive in this regard. [Valerie 2000]; [Harborne 1996]; [Sandford 1990]; [Ann 2004] In most hospitals, however, a genuine attempt is made to care for the patients and depending on the formal culture which has been cultivated as a result of the policies of the senior medical staff of the hospital, the relationship between the formal ward organisation and the patients tend to be friendly and cooperative. Informal groups consisting of patients, however, do spring up because there is a need to be helpful and be helped, pass time, converse and help each other to face the common enemy, the illness, as well as any other threats which may present themselves including the attitude of the ward staff. [Harborne 1996]; [Sandford 1990]; [Ann 2004] The arrival of a new patient generates an interest amongst the existing members of the ward and as the new arrival is investigated by the ward patients, the process of the forming of a new group starts. The newly arrived patient in the ward will initially be assisted by the formal ward staff or the nurses and will slowly get to know the other patients. The leaders of the informal patient groups may also express an interest and assist in the resettlement of the newly arrived, gathering information and making an assessment of the new patient. The formal ward administration will know much more about the patient because they will have their particulars and medical records Any factors in common between two patients in the ward including similar medical conditions, close neighbourhoods, cultural experiences or professional background etc will lead to an attraction or tele between two individuals which can assist in the formation of an informal group. An attraction or tele can also exist be tween a patient and a member of the formal organisation such as a nurse if there are any common backgrounds or interests. Norming of the ward takes place when the newly arrived patient starts to fit into the new environment and slowly gets to know the other members. In the storming phase, there may be personality clashes or debates about ward regulations and perhaps attempts to deliberately flout any regulations of the ward such as restrictions on smoking or meeting with others as a result of the attempts by the new members to personalise the ward space. The performing stage occurs with ward members settling down and helping each other while trying to get better. Sub-groups will be constantly formed and re-formed as the process of discovery continues and mutual interests shift. A member who has been through trying times, undergone a painful procedure or an operation may be given extra attention by the group as a whole and especially by those who have a strong attraction or tele with this member. The nursing staff, doctors, the senior medical staff as well as the administrators can judiciously intervene by conducting a dialogue and reasoning to keep the situation in the ward under control in order to maintain healthy relationships amongst the patients as well as between the patients and the ward staff. The ward group is adjourned with the departure of a patient and ritual farewell meetings or exchange of gifts may take place for those who have recovered, while some ritual mourning and remembrance will be present for those who may not have recovered. Informal groups in a ward can act in a protective manner towards their members, the patients, while collectively standing up against threats or the unreasonable behaviour of the ward staff. Occasionally, an informal group of patients may threaten the discipline of the ward and the formal medical staff will have to find ways to bring this group in greater harmony with the aims of the hospital and the ward. [Valerie 2 000]; [John

E-commerce :: essays research papers

E-commerce. Does this sounds familiar to you? Of course it does but most of us doesn’t really know and understand what is all about. We know that everything today is growing ‘e’ now but we really don’t know what does it mean by that. E-commerce means electronic commerce, which means that commerce, is now electronic. In general term, trading electronically or you can say trade on the internet is called e-commerce. This concept has been widely used in the market now, since last 2 years and almost each and every company is coming out with this new formula to stay in the market. Almost each and every superstore has their web site and facility to their customers to buy products online. In the 21st century each and every individual among us will be running out of time and nobody wants to go out to shop and waste 4 to 5 hours rather every one of us would prefer to shop online at the same price and get delivered at our door step. The electronic retail marketplace dema nds the highest attention to visual graphic design quality, coupled with the ability to construct an electronic catalog. This catalog must support multiple layouts and instant credit card transaction processing. There are certain advantages and disadvantages of trading on the net. Advantages ? One can buy each and every product sitting at home. ? It saves lot of time. ? Sometimes it saves lots of money too. For example, “ when I registered for this fall term I visited the book store and figured out that the total cost including all the books was $ 390 and when I surfed on the net, the same books I bought on the net for $ 320 including shipping and it was at my doorstep in two days. Thus, I saved 70 bucks sitting at home and saving my time.'; ? Also when the companies start their business they give lots of gifts and promotions for the customers who buy from their web site which one cannot find in stores at all the times. ? Even each and every newspaper in the market is now online so you don’t need to buy from the newstand and save the same money which you can use for different purpose. ? These shopping web sites also offer points towards everything that you purchase online and later on you can redeem this points to shop something free or use it towards your sky miles and fly free around the world. E-commerce :: essays research papers E-commerce. Does this sounds familiar to you? Of course it does but most of us doesn’t really know and understand what is all about. We know that everything today is growing ‘e’ now but we really don’t know what does it mean by that. E-commerce means electronic commerce, which means that commerce, is now electronic. In general term, trading electronically or you can say trade on the internet is called e-commerce. This concept has been widely used in the market now, since last 2 years and almost each and every company is coming out with this new formula to stay in the market. Almost each and every superstore has their web site and facility to their customers to buy products online. In the 21st century each and every individual among us will be running out of time and nobody wants to go out to shop and waste 4 to 5 hours rather every one of us would prefer to shop online at the same price and get delivered at our door step. The electronic retail marketplace dema nds the highest attention to visual graphic design quality, coupled with the ability to construct an electronic catalog. This catalog must support multiple layouts and instant credit card transaction processing. There are certain advantages and disadvantages of trading on the net. Advantages ? One can buy each and every product sitting at home. ? It saves lot of time. ? Sometimes it saves lots of money too. For example, “ when I registered for this fall term I visited the book store and figured out that the total cost including all the books was $ 390 and when I surfed on the net, the same books I bought on the net for $ 320 including shipping and it was at my doorstep in two days. Thus, I saved 70 bucks sitting at home and saving my time.'; ? Also when the companies start their business they give lots of gifts and promotions for the customers who buy from their web site which one cannot find in stores at all the times. ? Even each and every newspaper in the market is now online so you don’t need to buy from the newstand and save the same money which you can use for different purpose. ? These shopping web sites also offer points towards everything that you purchase online and later on you can redeem this points to shop something free or use it towards your sky miles and fly free around the world.