Misconceptions Among Muslim Essay

This is the biggest misconception about Islam, no doubt resulting from the constant stereotyping and bashing the media gives Islam. When a gunman attacks a mosque in the name of Judaism, a Catholic IRA guerrilla sets off a bomb in an urban area, or Serbian Orthodox militiamen rape and kill innocent Muslim civilians, these acts are not used to stereotype an entire faith. Never are these acts attributed to the religion of the perpetrators. Yet how many times have we heard the words ‘Islamic, Muslim fundamentalist, etc.’ linked with violence. Many people use the name of religions for their own purposes. One should consult the source of Islam and separate what the true religion of Islam says from what is portrayed in the media. Islam literally means ‘submission to Allah’ and is derived from a root word meaning ‘peace’. Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world. Perhaps this is because religion doesn’t dominate everyday life in the West, whereas Islam is considered a ‘way of life’ for Muslims and they make no division between secular and sacred in their lives. Like Christianity, Islam permits fighting in self-defence, in defence of religion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes. It lays down strict rules of combat, which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees and livestock. Nowhere does Islam enjoin the killing of innocents. The Quran says: {Fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight you, but do not transgress limits. Allah does not love transgressors} (Quran 2:190), {If they seek peace, then seek you peace. And trust in Allah for He is the One that heareth and knoweth all things} (Quran 8:61) War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorous conditions laid down by the sacred law. The term ‘jihad’ literally means ‘struggle’. Muslims believe that there are two kinds of jihad. The other ‘jihad’ is the inner struggle of the soul, which everyone wages against egotistic desires for the sake of attaining inner peace.

Many of Today’s Drivers Have Dangerous Habits

The cars today have such far-advanced automotive technology that the motorized transport vehicle seems to drive itself. The problem is that because driving cars today require less concentration than the cars of yesteryear, inventors seem to have come up with new and varied ways to keep the driver busy behind the wheel. This would not be such a bad thing if it did not pose such a threat to the life and limb of the driver and the pedestrians and other cars in his path. I am not kidding, all you have to do is look at every single person behind the wheel these days to know that they should not be driving and performing whatever activity it is that is preoccupying their minds, hands, and mouths, all at the same time. So, what kinds of driving activities pose as bad driving habits or hazards on the road? How do the activities alter the driver's state of mind and concentration? The usual culprit that creates a dangerous driving habit is technology. It is not uncommon to see people driving with one hand on the wheel and the other holding a cellphone up to his ear while navigating dangerous turns and traffic lights. Women rushing out the door with curlers in their hair also try to put on make up while driving to work. Needless to say, the rearview mirror is not for applying mascara to the face. Speaking of rushing out the door, today's fast paced life style also insures that most people do not have time to have a decent breakfast before flying out the door. A quick trip through a drive through gives you the most common dangerous driving habit ever to be performed by man. Instead of keeping an eye on the road, the driver ends up with his eye on the sandwich and trying to balance the drink that he so does not need spilling unto his lap. Aside from these everyday-driving hazards that drivers do not seem to realize they are performing, there are also the bad driving habits that are caused by speeding. This is the tendency of a hurried driver to run down a pedestrian is greater and the possibility of loosing control of the wheel is a seriously dangerous reality. Not to forget, some drivers forget to use their turn signals and this often times causes accidents between other cars or pedestrians. By simply using these simple warning devices, accidents can be avoided. I would also like to mention that people who do not use their signal lights usually end up engaged in a violent game of road rage. Other drivers tend to get irritated and worked up into frenzy when the driver in front of them fails to use their signal lights and almost runs the driver behind him into an accident. Another example of a bad driving habit is an over confident and cocky driver behind the wheel. This is usually a bad habit attributed to experienced drivers because their driving route they traverse has become such a routine that they think they can navigate it with their eyes closed. So when an activity that poses a threat to the life and limb of the driver and those around him jogs the driver to reality, they are usually unprepared to respond to the situation. Basically, dangerous driving habits are not something permanent. If you remain conscious of your driving habits and remember to always stick to the rules of the road, there is no reason for one to become one of the many drivers on the road these days with terrible driving habits. Safe driving is practically just common sense and is not hard to follow. Just remember, bad driving habits means that you are just lucky that the grim reaper hasn't decided to take you yet. It never hurts to err on the side of caution and drive safely for a happy long life. Outline: I.Introduction to dangerous driving habits II.Technological advancements that cause bad driving habits III.Bad driving habits brought about by a fast paced lifestyle IV. Bad driving habits caused by speeding V. Bad driving habits caused by complacency of the driver in his driving skills VI.Suggestions to alter bad driving habits VII. Conclusion Work Cited â€Å"Dangerous Driving Habits†. Ezine Articles. 2006.May 8, 2007.

Flexible Firm Hrm

Assignment 2 (a)Outline the main forms of flexibility as defined in Atkinson’s (1984) model of the flexible firm (b) What are some of the strengths and weaknesses of the Atkinson model? ANSWER PLAN: ?Introduction/Background oWhat are the aims of flexibility oGuest (1987) de-centralisation helps to create flexibility oWhat are the main forms of flexibility that modern organisation need ?Body: 4 types of flexibility oFunctional/Temporal/Numerical/Financial ?Body 2: Atkinson’s Model oCore group oFrist/Second peripheral groups How each of these differ oOutsourcing activities/ Agency / Self-employed/Sub-contracting ?Advantages / Disadvantages of Atkinson’s model ?Criticism ?Conclusion In highly competitive environment, organisations need to be able to react quickly and effectively to changes. David Guest (1987) in advocating de-centralisation emphasised the role it plays in increasing flexibility within an organisation. He cited flexibility as one of the keys to respo nding effectively to changes in the environment, and that it is essential for organisational success.The main forms of flexibility in modern organisation according to Blyton and Morris (1992) are four: Functional, Temporal, Numerical and Financial. Functional flexibility involves the task of multi-skilling where employees are required to possess one specific skill and many other generalist ones. This means a reduced specialisation of roles with individuals being trained to carry out a much wider range of activities than before. The purpose of numerical flexibility is to expand and contract the labour force according to specific demand for it.In times of expansion, more workers are required. Conversely a smaller workforce is needed if the business is decreasing. The third form is temporal flexibility. In this case the number and distribution of hours varies. It concerns different approaches to managing the time of employees, such as â€Å"annual hours contracts† where there is a total number of hours to be worked but actual hours will vary according to circumstances. Finally, financial flexibility involves the way that an individual’s payment varies in ways which best allow it to meet objectives.At the individual level this can mean pay-related-performance or multiple pay strategies such as bonuses, dividends and share options. Atkinson developed a model of what he called the flexible firm which brings together a number of aspects of flexibility. This model is shown below: The model consists of a core group, first and second peripheral groups and outsourcing activities. The core group include the full-time, generalist skilled workers who are expected to keep learning and adapting to changes.This is the permanent component of the firm’s workforce; they are the ones with the most job security, and they have better opportunities for training and promotion. They are relatively few in the organisation. This group provides flexibility through its commitment because they are the permanent ones. In contrast, peripheral workers provide a firm with numerical flexibility. The first peripheral group is normally full-time but does not have the same job security as the core workers. Their numbers increase or reduce with changing labour market conditions.The second peripheral group is employed on a part-time basis, with short-term contracts. They tend to be less well paid and have fewer rights and benefits than the first peripheral group. Less is invested in them as far as training and opportunities for promotion are concerned. As a final alternative if necessary, organisations can outsource functions as a means of generating flexibility. These are contracted to do specific work and are more expensive; outsourced flexibility comes at a premium price.An example of outsourcing services is office cleaning where an agency is contracted to carry out the cleaning of the office on a continuing basis. In times of recession, peripheral or no n-full-time workers are much more likely to be made redundant. The advantages of the Atkinson model for the organisation include: a more easily controlled and managed workforce; core employees being more committed due to enriched jobs (Soft HRM); the facility for bringing in skills as required and cost saving and low wage costs for part-time workers.The disadvantages include: risk of lack of specialist expertise due to multi-skilling and issues connected with loyalty and security. Firstly loyalty, because they are not bound by permanent contract, there is no guarantee that the worker will continue to be available. They may also lack necessary training as the organisation will be focusing more on the core workers because the more you move to peripheral workers the more you want to contain costs, therefore minimal training is offered.Atkinson’s model is criticised because many organisations will have core, peripheral and outsourced workers without having the Atkinson’s m odel in mind. In other words even when flexibility is practiced, it is not because of his model. The requirement for flexibility happened in organisations before he developed his model. In conclusion flexibility can take a number of different forms as proposed by Blyton and Morris. It helps the organisation react to changes faster and more effectively. The four types of flexibility link to The Atkinson’s model which illustrates how organisations are structured.Managers value the model to a degree of financial flexibility because it separates core workers from peripheral workers. It helps them taking decisions on who to contract. High level skills can be brought in when necessary and outsourced tasks can end up being less expensive, as the termination of the contract is simple. There are a number of potential advantages and disadvantages of workforce flexibility, depending on which group is considered. The flexible firm emphasises the need for organisations to be flexible and have the capability to adapt to constantly changing circumstances.

ACME Tea Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

ACME Tea - Assignment Example However, ACME is not a global brand and has presence only in Muscat. Moreover, the company lacks marketing experience, and hence this report suggests a marketing plan based on the situation and industry analysis. The retail sales value of tea in the UK jumped 22% between 2006 and 2011 and was valued at  £655 million in 2011. Almost 87% of the Brits are tea consumers. Sale of loose tea has dropped between 2009 and 2011. Consumers are particularly cutting back on the use of higher price loose tea. However, tea being a staple item for every household, economic downturn is unlikely to have any significant impact on the consumption of tea. The overall tea market is expected to grow by 8% between 2011 and 2016 and reach  £708 million (Mintel, 2012). Sales of ordinary tea bags have been declining steadily over the past few years (73% in 2009 to 70% in 2011) (Mintel, 2012). More exotic varieties such as Green Bags, Fruit and Herbal Bags, Speciality Bags and Decaffeinated Bags, are now preferred by the Brits. Sale of green bags has grown a sensational 83% between 2009 and 2011. As many as 12% of the Brits, drink green tea on a weekly basis. A SWOT analysis has been conducted (Appendix A). The tea industry is experiencing growth as consumers seek health drinks and consider tea to be a health drink. Competition with other beverages and drinks are prevalent but tea is being promoted as a health drink. Green tea and new herbal infusions have been gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers even at the expense of other hot drinks (Groosman, 2011). Suki Tea is a strong contender in the UK tea market as it provides finest loose tea, herbal infusions, and fruit blends from around the world. They focus on ethical sourcing and their teas have Fairtrade, Organic, and Rainforest Alliance accreditation, which have served to enhance their market position (Suki Tea, n.d.). In the UK four companies dominate

Foreign Policy and the Middle East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Foreign Policy and the Middle East - Essay Example ng a permanent American force to remain in the country in so that it could maintain order and secure the gains that many American servicemen had died for. Furthermore, Republicans believe that in matters concerning conflicts in the Middle East, such as the ongoing Syrian civil war, it is essential for the United States to become actively involved in the overthrow of the Assad regime and replacing it with one which favors America. These policies are a direct opposite of those which the Democrats stand for, with the latter preferring a more subtle American approach to foreign policy where diplomacy is given precedence (Mostofi 227). The withdrawal of American troops from the Middle East is a step towards reducing the risk posed to the country. Furthermore, through the use of drone technology, it has become possible to fight terrorists without having to bring in troops to combat them. Therefore, according to the Democrats, American role in the Middle East should be limited to partnershi ps with its allies rather than on direct intervention in internal affairs of the countries in the region. Withdrawal of forces from the Middle East by the Obama administration is a move designed to ensure that the country remains safer. It is certain that United States spent billions of dollars and lost many servicemen in the Middle East for the purpose of keeping their country safe. While this was the case, the Middle Eastern situation, especially in Iraq, instead of improving, became even worse ("Obama Commits to Troop Withdrawal from Iraq by 2011" 4). This was essentially because the American backed government became the oppressors of the minority Sunni population in Iraq and this created an environment ripe for sectarian violence. This forms of violence continued for years, this despite the presence of American troops. Therefore, the security of the nation was not helped in any way by the presence of troops in Iraq, hence justifications for the withdrawal. In addition, public

Black & Decker - Eastern Hemisphere and ADP Initiative Case Study

Black & Decker - Eastern Hemisphere and ADP Initiative - Case Study Example Also, they faced certain challenges in these regions. Bill Lancaster, after his appointment as President in October 1995, wanted to set things right in his region i.e. Eastern Hemisphere. Bill Lancaster had certain concerns with relation to the Eastern Hemisphere organization and wanted to acquire a clear understanding of the scenario by discussing and seeking views of the existing employees and members of the Management Advisory Council (MAC). His prime concern was the fact that he found significant disparity in the ‘management styles’ that existed in the region. He found that certain managerial styles emphasized on employee empowerment whereas, others belonged to old authoritarian method. From his observation he felt that a few managers were bad managers. The other aspect was related to the growth and development of the people as he felt that in this region quite a few people were stagnant in their position. The other crucial matter of concern was with regards to exist ing process of management assessment as well as development system. They followed MBO-type system which had been discarded in the US a few years before. Bill Lancaster observed that these concerns required immediate addressing in order to not only increase the organizational growth in the Eastern Hemisphere organization but also to instigate human resource growth and development. ... ADP method of appraisal was observed to be one of the best tools available to provide employees with set goals and career plans similar to MBO process. The added benefit that ADP provided was that it was undeniably superior to MBO in guiding people towards growth prospects. The ADP plan followed six steps appraisal process which was in line with the 3600 appraisal method. This plan worked as immense aid for a manager as they were provided with the feedback about a subordinate who was reviewed by his peers and also by himself. It helped to reduce the burden of evaluation of an employee by a manager and also it provided a varied perspective towards an employee which in the long run helped in building leaders for the future which was greatly required in the Eastern Hemisphere organization. Thus, ADP had undoubted potential to develop people which was a major weakness in the organization. 2) What Concerns Do Asian Managers Have About ADP? How Substantive Are These Concerns? In the US, th ere was certain skepticism with ADP. The concerns were regarding its acceptability among the employees other than the senior level. It was also thought that the 3600 feedback process will give rise to biasness as popularity of an employee with the managers of would play a major role in getting a good review. The enormities of the process of collecting as well as processing of the feedback were also a major concern. The process was also thought to be devoid of providing any reward for a job done well by an employee. These concerns that were quite substantial in the US were seen to be raised in some form or the other among the Asian managers. The concerns among the Asian managers were that Asian people were generally thought to be averse from criticism

Embracing Globalization while Maintaining Identity Essay

Embracing Globalization while Maintaining Identity - Essay Example As the paper discusses while globalization is not the answer to all the world’s problems, a negative attitude towards it is one that is capable of breeding suspicion and misunderstanding between different cultures and nations. Also, economically speaking, globalization can be far more complicated than merely showing tolerance and acceptance towards other cultures. This essay will first illustrate some of the negative attitudes toward globalization. Next, globalization as it relates to education in Israel will be discussed. Through these examples one can likely see that many people are afraid that globalization will weaken their particular nation and take away from their common identities. In response to these fears, the paper will suggest that it is indeed possible to maintain one’s identity while at the same time accepting globalization. One instance of a negative view towards globalization is â€Å"anti-soccer† Americans as described in the work of Franklin Foer. According to Foer, globalization has actually failed some of its expectations, both economically and culturally, given that a majority of the world’s nations remain poor, and that some cultures actually fear that â€Å"globalized culture† will eventually erode their own unique cultural identities. In order to illustrate the failures of globalization, particularly in its failure to promote the homogenization of culture (and even attracted the reversion to old cultural identities and hostility to other cultures), Foer uses the ever famous worldwide sport of soccer.  

Individual portfolio on global enterprise Essay - 1

Individual portfolio on global enterprise - Essay Example Due to the process of the globalization, there is a fast growth in the technology, communication, science, transport and business. The worldwide economy has been affected a lot of the fast changes happening in the field of technology, communication and transportation. This concept has helped in building the relations between the countries for their smooth running of the businesses. The integration and the cooperation of the countries to move the present resources for maximum financial growth have resulted in increasing the momentum over the past few decades. This has resulted in opening new markets and worldwide commerce to increase the financial growth across countries. Therefore, the term globalization can aptly be explained as the amalgamation of nations and companies worldwide. Globalization - a historical overview There are different opinions of the history of globalization. According to Scholte (2005) the globalization process is indicated by â€Å"the scale of contemporary te lecommunication, air travel, transworld goods, transplanetary financial transactions, transworld civil society associations, global regulations, global festivals, and global awareness among the general public in the world over† (p118). The globalization practice is mainly due to the increased rate in improvement of technology, transportation, science, communication and commerce. ... The combination of technology infrastructure with supportive economic policies is the important requisite to open new markets and economic sections for improved amalgamations. Economic growth and development cannot happen with good economic policies and support of the government. The business policy and the socio-political atmosphere of the country are the important features deciding the â€Å"orientation towards integration into the global economy.† Rapid economic growth can be achieved also by promoting skills, by exhibiting the workforces and individual competence. Nowadays, economic growth is dependent on the individual competence the knowledge or specialization of the skills an organization has in a competitive market. The entry or exit of new industries totally depends on the industry policies. The growth and promotion of an enhanced atmosphere for economic amalgamation depends on the government policy frameworks, workforce efficiencies, and industry structures (Fischer, 2003). Many industries had dreamt about globalization to make the trade volume increase. The changes, which we have seen in the field of technology, communication and transportation, were the main features in overcoming the physical barriers and achieving the goal. Countries all over the world have allowed such policies so that foreign countries enter and there were more facilities in the market to enhance the economic growth and development. Some think that globalization happened just recently but they also feel that it might have started happening quite early, seeing the developments that are of recent times but supports the history. Now, this is

Health Administarion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 7

Health Administarion - Essay Example There are several determinants of what to measure in an organization. One of the determinants is the goals and objectives set for the organization. The aim of the organization from its inception lies in the goals and objectives. In order to therefore determine if the aim is being fulfilled, measurement of the performance against the set goals and objectives is necessary (Hannabarger, Buchman and Economy, 209). Other determinant is the strength and weaknesses of the organization. These are important in determining measurement because they reflect the true nature and state (financial or otherwise) and measurement of these will point the organization to its next direction and steps. Additionally, the threats being faced by the organization are also determinants of measurement if the organization is succeed in future. Finally, the specified mission and vision of the organization also act as effective determinants of performance measurement. This is because they involve the future of the organization and its success or failure. The mission and vision are what give the organization a brand name and distinguishes it from its competitors and it is therefore necessary to measure whether that is still the truth (Hannabarger, Buchman and Economy,

Emily Islation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Emily Islation - Essay Example The story explains that Emily got isolated and insane because of her Father which led her to kill her love and later die in agony.( Thesis). Emily had lived with her Father till he died and she never wanted to accept that she lost her father. As per (Fang 18-24) â€Å" In â€Å"A Rose for Emily†, Emily is such a tragic figure who forever lives under her father’s domination, even after his death. But her insanity started with her father’s death and went on to escalate later in life†. Her father never allowed anyone to court Emily and he contributed to her isolation. Later she got used to the lonely lifestyle and lived in isolation. After, her Father’s death she embraced isolation to lighten up her life. For example, she did not even take time to throw out the people who come to collect tax but order to throw them out. She also did not hold a civil conversation with them. She also did not communicate with her community and never went out. This in a way supported her. Because of her isolated life people thought of her as a weak women but she was strong inside. She could kill Homer and pret end to be naà ¯ve and isolation allowed her to keep her secrets. The root cause of all her problems had been her father. She is isolated from her city, relatives and people around her. Her alienation from love has led her to insanity. Emil’s isolation is evident because after her Father death, she felt deserted and hid from the society and embraced loneliness. As per ( Faulkner 129) â€Å"After her fathers death she went out very little; after her sweetheart went away, people hardly saw her at all†. Emily is a character who did not want to confront the reality. She lives in a fantasy world and where death has no meaning. Emily refused to accept that the life around her is changing and she wants to fondle the memories of her fast forgetting the present. After her father’s death she did not go out much and her

Essel Group Essay Example for Free

Essel Group Essay I wish to thank my parents for their undivided support and interest who inspired me and encouraged me to go my own way, without whom I would be unable to complete my project. At last but not the least I want to thank my friends who appreciated me for my work and motivated me and finally to God who made all the things possible Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd It is the second-largest Indian media and entertainment company based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a subsidiary of the Essel Group. The companys Chairman, Managing Director and Founders are Subhash Chandra and its Chief Executive Officer is Puneet Goenka. Through its strong presence worldwide, Zee entertains over 670+ million viewers across 168 countries. History The company was launched on 15 December 1991 and was previously known as Zee Telefilms until 2006, when it was renamed and the news and entertainment units were spun off into four smaller divisions. Zee currently operates over 15 different television channels, a cable company Siticable, a record label Zee Records, a production company and other businesses as well. It has expanded operations abroad, with several of its channels available in the UK and U. S. s well as Africa and Asia. In 2002 Zee Entertainment Enterprises acquired a majority stake (51%) in ETC Networks. In 2006, they acquired Integrated Subscriber Management Services Limited and in November 2006, Zee acquired an interest (50%) in Taj television TEN Sports. In February 2010 Zee Entertainment Enterprises acquired an additional stake (95%) in TEN sports. As Zee Telefilms, the company formed part of BSE Sensex from 2000-2005. The news and regional entertainment channel business was spun off into a separate company in 2006 under the corporate banner Zee News Ltd. 982 The Company was incorporated on 25th November, and it obtained the Certificate of Commencement of Business on 5th January 1983 as Empire Holdings Ltd. in the state of Maharashtra. It was promoted by the Essel group of companies, comprising Sanjay Badgamia, Vasant Parekh and Ashok Kothari. The main object of the company business was of entertainment software. 1992 It entered into the business of entertainment software and subsequently the name was changed to ZEE Telefilms Ltd. The Company co-promoted Essel Packaging Ltd. the partnership company of the Essel group in 1982. The Company produces/develops Hindi films, serials, game shows, children programmes etc. The Company would also commission serials, game shows etc. , through directors/producers on contract basis, purchase rights of Hindi films, serials and other programmes from the producers for a predetermined period. 1993 ASSPL became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. During the year, the Company entered into an agreement with the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation for supply of programme software to ZEE TV. During August, the Company issued 89, 28,000 rights equity shares of Rs 10 each at a premium of Rs 20 per share in proportion 12:1. Another 90, 00,000 shares were offered at a premium of Rs 20 per share through prospectus as follows: 9, 00,000 shares and 27, 00,000 shares reserved for allotment to FIIs and NRIs (repatriation basis) respectively. Only 21, 90,300, shares were taken up by NRIs. Of the balance 10,000 shares reserved for allotment on preferential basis to employees (only 4,100 shares taken up). Remaining 45, 90,000 shares along with 5, 15,600 shares not taken up were issued to the public (of these 4, 98,000 shares taken up by FIIs and 17,600 shares by public). 1994 The Company promoted Siti Cable Venture for provision of integrated cable network facility to individual cable operators on a city by city basis and function as a city TV station. The Company also proposed to develop Pay TV industry and with this in view is jointly promoting Zee Cinema, the first Hindi movie Pay TV Channel along with the News Corp 995 The Company along with NewsCorp’s promoted another company viz. Programme Asia Trading Company Private Ltd. (PATCO) for programme supplies to EL TV and Zee Cinema Channel. Asia Today Ltd. and Zee Telefilms Ltd. entered into a sale and purchase agreement for production, procurement and provision of Hindustani entertainment software from India and export the same to Hong kong for transmitting such software on ZEE TV Channel. 1996 Pref. shares redeemed during th is year. 1997 3, 00,000 pref. shares were issued. Walt Disney animation films will be telecast every day for two hours on Zee TV from February 1 following an agreement reached between Buena Vista Television India and Zee. In order to bring the first of its kind `Zee Cine Awards to millions of TV viewers across the globe, the Zee Network has tied up with the 150-year old world audit major, Price Waterhouse (which incidentally is the auditing firm for the Oscar awards also) and the market research firm Gallup MBA. 1999 As part of its expansion plans, ZTL will increase its authorised capital from Rs 50 to Rs 75 crore. Zee Telefilms Ltd (ZTL) shareholders approved an increase in the companys authorized share capital from Rs 50 crore to Rs 75 crore to safeguard itself from any fund shortfall required for the ambitious projects envisaged in the face of technological convergence. Subhash Chandra-promoted Zee Telefilms Ltd (ZTL) has tied up with French major Canal Plus for its proposed digital TV service, a precursor to a KU-band direct-to-home (DTH) service. ZEE TV will launch three new channels in Europe and start broadcasts in eight regional languages in India during an action-packed six months expansion programme. Zee Telefilms Limited (ZTL) will soon launch three English language channels, including a news channel called the Asian News Network, thus taking head-on its partner-turned-competitor Star TV. Zee TV up to 1999 has been operating four channels, three of which were being played out of STAR TV facility in Hong Kong on lease basis. With the growth of the network into eleven channels, the launch of the DTO bouquet and the Alpha channels including the English channels, a decision was taken to install a fully owned facility in Singapore which can play-out ten channels. This facility was set up in a record time of three months and has been fully operational since middle of March 2000. In September 1999, ZTL acquired Zee Multimedia Worldwide Limited (ZMWL). Following this acquisition, all the international operations including the broadcasting business of ZMWL came under ZTLs control. ZTL acquired NewsCorps 50% stake in Asia Today Limited (ATL), Siticable, and Programme Asia Trading Company Ltd. and now owns 100% of these businesses. The consideration paid for the acquisition was USD 296. 51 million 2000 Zeenext. com, the Internet portal site of the company subsidiary EConnect India Ltd, and mobile Internet firm Unimobile. com that they had tied up to offer zee next portal contents to wireless communication devices. Zee Telefilms has emerged as the new market mover on Dalal Street. Zee Telefilms signed a MoU with Asia net Communication Ltd. for consolidating Zees entry into the South Indian regional channels. Zee Telefilms will set up 500 Internet kiosks, named eZee centres, across the country as part of its e-commerce initiatives, senior company. Zee Telefilms has been awarded the prestigious Ground Breaker award as the top national programmer by the US-based trade publication, Multichannel News International. Media and entertainment major Zee Telefilms has acquired 26 per cent stake in Aplab Ltd, an electronic equipment market. Zee Telefilms will launch Basic Education Support Television in April 2001 a project aimed at educating the rural India through the television medium. Zee Telefilms Ltds American Depository Receipts/American Depository Shares issue worth . billion. Zee Telefilms Ltd aims at a 1:1 debt-equity ratio for its Rs. 2,400 crore outlay to set up a fibre-optic and coaxial network across 26 cities in the country. The Company and TransWorld International have joined their bids for the telecast rights for the cricket World cup tournaments for 2003 and 2007. Zee Telefilms subsidiary Zee Publishing has been hived off as a separate company. Zee Telefilms Ltd will be launching its sports channel, tentatively christ ened, zee Sports, on 1st October. Zee Telefilms Ltd. will float a new joint venture company with the Hollywood studio, Metro Gold-wyn Mayer Inc (MGM) to operate aco-branded movie channel exclusively for the South Asian market 2001 In May, 2001, Zee Telefilms has decided to induct a strategic partner, preferably an international media major to strengthen its financial and technical strengths to achieve high growth in the field of convergence. ZTL has converted its flagship Zee TV into a pay channel with effect from 10 June 2001. 2002 Zee Telefilms has come out with Open offer to acquire 23,39,900 fully paid-up equity shares of Rs 10/- each of ETC Networks. It represents 20% of the voting equity share capital at a price of Rs 31. 52/- per fully paid up equity share. The issue opens on 3rd Apr. 2002 and closes on 3rd May 2002. Zee Telefilms Ltd has informed that Zee TV Partners Cartoon Network, Snap Ties with Nickelodeon. Zee Telefilms took a controlling stake in ETC Networks in June 2002, following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two companies in February this year. As per the MoU, Zee was to acquire 57 per cent in ETC in two stages for Rs 25 crore. 2003 Zee News is attempting to give a full perspective of the stories by Following them to the cores. In this regard, it has launched a new programme, known as Zee Follow Up. The new programme will pick up the loose string of hundreds of stories that once made headlines but somewhere down the line lost their steam. Zee News is attempting to retrace history by keeping the viewers abreast of what had occurred since, the report said. Decides to persist with its plan of showing Thursday Bollywood blockbusters Hits upon a new income stream to boost revenues by permitting other international news channels to beam its exclusive footage and programmes for a fee. Delgrada, an overseas corporate body owned by the promoters of ZEE Telefilms, pledges an additional 3. 1 crore shares or 7. 6% of the equity capital of Zee Telefilms held by it in favour of Credit Suisse First Boston, Singapore Mumbai High Court stays Zee TVs daily and Sunday lottery draws Share price slumps to four-year low of Rs 60. 5 on 01/04/2003 Zee News starts new programme Zee Follow up through which it is attempting to retrace history by keeping the viewers abreast of what had occurred since Zee, Turner International expand partnership with 3 new channels wherein Turner will be the advertising sales agent for Zees English entertainment and lifestyle channels, Zee English, Zee MGM and the recently unveiled Trendz channel Announces its la carte price lis t for bundling channels Govt cancels Zee Telefilms plea for bundling its channels Promoters’ stake in Zee comes down to below 51-pc, stands at 50. % Zee News launches a new logo and a new advertising campaign with the baseline Haqeeqat Jaisi, Khabar Waisi Foreign shareholdings in Zee Telefilms surge to 58% Promoters of Zee offload 3% shares to FIIs Zee becomes first to get Letter of intent for DTH operation in India 2004 ? Zee announces launch of new religious channel Jagran ? Churu Trading Co. Pvt. Ltd, has purchased 3415518 equity shares of the Company from Livewire Programme Trading Co. Pvt. Ltd. Zee Telefilms announced the launch of a separate encrypted beam for Singapore ? BT Broadcast, ASCEL join hands to offer teleport services to Zee 2005 ? Zee Telefilms Ltd launches separate sports channel. ? Zee Tele teams up with IBM Global. ? Zee Network in alliance with Pan Global TV. ? Zee join hands with Malaysias Astro to launch Hindi channel. ? Zee TV has announced the launch of an interactive game show Kam Ya Zyaada. 2006 ? Zee Telefilms acquires 50% stake in Ten Sports. ? Zee Network launches new channel in Indonesia. Zee to acquire 60 pc stakes in Venus Films. 2007 Zee Telefilms Ltd has informed that consequent to all approvals having been received the name of the Company, effective from January 10, 2007, has changed to Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has informed that the Board of Directors, vide a resolution passed by circulation on December 29, 2007, has approved the appointment of Mr. R Vaidyanathan, Professor of Finance and Control at the Indian Institute of Management, 2009

Costs of residential photovoltaic solar electricity Essay Example for Free

Costs of residential photovoltaic solar electricity Essay Abstract Now a day’s electricity is more important concern. We use a lot of home appliances which is operated by electricity but electricity we use; it is costly and not available every where. As we know sun is the source of energy, the energy which provided by the sun, less in cost, mostly available every where in abundance.  Ã‚   Where electricity is not available in that case electricity generation by using solar energy can solve our problem but the main problem is that before apply such a technique, we familiar with installation cost, its limitation, uses etc. In this paper I want to focus our attention Costs of residential photovoltaic solar electricity with battery storage and its installation. Costs of residential photovoltaic solar electricity with battery storage   Sun is the most imp energy source of energy. Energy which is finding from sun is almost free of cost, pollution free and most abundant in nature. The generation of electricity from solar energy is one of the best uses of unconventional energy resources. We can generate electricity from solar energy by two ways one by used to photovoltaic technologies other by used to solar thermal technologies. Photovoltaic cell is the most important means for electricity generation; we use photovoltaic generated power because it is very reliable, low operating and construction cost and pollution free, so its use increases day by day. There are around thirties different devices used now a days. We store this electrical energy in the battery bank. There are around 400,000-800,000 photovoltaic systems operating worldwide its typical size varies from 50 watt to 1 kilowatt (kW) for stand-alone systems with battery storage and small water pumping systems; its cost varies according to use of photovoltaic panel, the average cost of approximately US$4 per watt. Its approx cost for 5000/kw photovoltaic module is $2600 and for photovoltaic system approx 7000/kw is $4700.to accurate measurement of the cost it is necessary we compare it from other energy resources with all aspects. We use photovoltaic module less than 10kw and it is increases according to use. In the beginning the installation cost is much but if we compare it from other resources it is cheaper to use as in the village where no electricity or it may have, the photovoltaic technology provide direct electricity.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   So the electricity generation by photovoltaic solar panel is cheaper than other electricity generation if we compare it for all aspects.   References:   Gupta, D., Mishra, V. (2005) Energy Ecology, Environment and Society. India.    Joshi, J.C., (2007-08) Research and Development. India. Hurricane, G., (2007-08) PV- An edge over other energy forms, article on PV.

Faced By Single Parents

Faced By Single Parents Different aspects of Chinese culture are manipulated to contribute to the difficult situation of single parent families; whereby, traditional family values and family relationships are both an asset and liability to single parent families. In this case, the parental role identity need to be flexible rather than traditional gendered role identity need to be facilitate in the adjustment of divorced parents. For the welfare services to be empowering there are some critical aspects that need to be considered such as selective traditional Chinese values and cultures and the resolution of the ideological dilemma in welfare policy. Routine services are the services that help single families to overcome their difficulties with sufficient resources should be explored. Benefits should be provided in a way that it can able to help the families such as housing and education allowances for the low income families. Effectiveness of the provision on welfare benefits in helping the families to develop competence and independence should be evaluate in a crucial way in order that the families are able to gain further competence and independence through the temporary assistance of welfare. Family friendly work policy has to be supported. The policy reforms in work or family policy which recognizes the legitimacy of employees family involvement that will largely reduce the dual role dilemma of the single parents. The hidden structural problems that increase welfare dependence rate should be addressed in addition to the enhancement of individual skills and competence. For example, flexible time, childcare provision and; support and parental leave as part of the benefit to all families including single parent families are implemented in some European countries. Cairney, J., Boyle, M., Offord. D. R., Racine. Y. (2003). Stress, social support and depression in single and married mothers. Soc Psychiatry Epidemiol 38, 442-449. Stress and social supports are the important mediators of the relationship between single and married mothers. The effect of life events in depression was stronger for married mother compared to single mothers because they are less reactive to negative events due to the experience significant chronic stresses and strains. Single mothers have used to dealing with adversity and less affected by negative events compare to married mothers who are lack of experience of the adversity. Social support to have a relatively impact in terms of explaining the link between family structure and mental well-being. Among the three variables, social support was the only significant variable in the research that stated social stressors have an impact of accounting for the relationship between single parent status and depression compare to the previous research found financial problem to be the main factor in the relationship between single parent status and psychological well-being. Additional knowledge regarding single parenthood and depression are being gained in this research but the nature of the inter-relationship between family structure, stress, social support and depression remains unclear. However, not only an effect relationship exists between single parent status and depression but the changes in stress and social support over time may lead to changes in psychological well-being. The impact of moving into and out of single parenthood will help us in a better understanding of the consequences of taking up the single parent role and the factors that might occur in and out of this status. Gladow, N. W., Ray, M. P. (1986). The impact of informal support systems on the well being of low income single parents. Family Relations 35, 113-123. Different types of support affect different aspects of well being. Thus, informal support systems do have a positive impact on well being of low income single parents. For example, support from friends and relatives make a unique contribution to reduce the problems of single parents lives where low income single parents can rely on the both parties for support that can lead to reduce the problems they are going to face. Support from friends appears to have the greatest impact on reducing loneliness but then support from relatives is not related to loneliness. This might happen because friends provide more opportunity for free and open conversations that individual feels not so comfortable discussing it with relatives. Besides that, support systems outside the nuclear family can have a very positive effect on the well being of low income single parent families such as social workers, family therapists, counselors and other professionals who can assure single parents that it is both human and helpful to need and rely on supports outside the nuclear family. Furthermore, agency programs designed to provide specific needs such as food, housing and maintenance. It is a good way if the agency workers can refer the low income single parents in groups to provide social support and building supportive relationships among the single parents. Group counseling for single parents through mental health centers can be established if the single parents groups might not provide the type of support that are needed by the populations. Webber, R., Boromeo, D. (2005). The sole parent family: family and support networks. Australian Journal of Social Issues 40(2), 269-283. Ten participants, nine of them saw that support networks as having an essential role to play in their personal well-being and support the children in the initial stages. Support was accessed from different sources including friends, relatives, colleagues, government agencies and social welfare agencies and support can involves different things such as emotional support, practical support (baby sitting, financial, advice and household repairs). Friends and relatives contribute a large amount in emotional and practical supports. Thus, supports will change according when the needs changed. Supports was seek and attained among community and friendship networks. Various counseling such as individual counseling, family counseling or family therapy was perceived to be the most effect one that are recommended to assist the extended family in going through terms with sorrow and relationship issues. Nevertheless, family and community support are the important factors in healthy families but then most of the participants are not satisfied with the quality of family support when it was provided in a low or critical way. As the result, parents do not cause the separation to feel the contempt of the family members and people who experienced negatively from relatives and friend tend to set a distance to those who do not validate their new status as a single parent. Grossman, C. C., Hudson, D. B., Lefler, R. K., Fleck, M. O. (2005). Community leaders perceptions of single, low-income mothers needs and concerns for social support. Journal of Community Health Nursing 22(4), 241-257 Social support theory, a framework used to develop focus group inquiry questions. From the group discussion by the community leaders, the needs and concerns of single, low-income mothers are social support issue, personal barriers to success and system barriers. Social support issues such as single mother needs verbal and non-verbal contact with relatives, friends and health care professionals. Needs of informational supports for single mothers including parent responsibilities, infant care tasks and resources that are available can help single mother to increase their level of parenting. Tangible support for single mothers including housing, food, financial, child care and transportation are important. This are supported by House (1981) and Revenson et al. (1991) stated that when tangible support needs are greater than available resources, individuals will experience poor physical and emotional health outcomes. Last but not least, nursing care can identify and use standardized instruments to assess mothers needs and concerns besides on the nurses intuitive perception. Community health nurses are professional in providing single, low-income mothers with informational support, appraisal and emotional support.

Feminist Approaches to Social Work Essay -- Gender Roles, Sexism, Oppr

This work is going to set out to investigate the relevance of feminist approaches to social work in today’s society. It will first look at the different types of feminism that are present in society. It will then trace and highlight the emergence of feminism in society. This essay will then delve deeper into the different types of approaches that were taken on by feminists within the field of social work. It will discuss what effect these approaches had on society especially women. According to Hooks (2000) as cited in Considine and Dukelow (2009:141) â€Å"Feminism is a movement to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression†. It is necessary to explain the different types of feminism that are present in society first. Freedman (2001:5) states that there are many different strands of feminism present in society, but the three most commonly recognised are liberal feminism, Marxist feminism and radical feminism, her explanation of these are as follows. Liberal feminism is based on the idea that everyone within a state should have the same rights and women should be treated equally to men. Marxist feminism is based on the belief that women’s maltreatment is linked back to capitalism. Radical feminists believe that men’s authority over women has a connection with patriarchy. The above explanation has been a brief introduction to the different types of feminism present in society. At a later stage within in this work, it will be examined wh at effect feminism has had on social work and society as a whole. Now that the meaning of feminism has been ascertained and the different types of feminism present in society today highlighted it is necessary to examine the emergence of feminism. Considine and Dukelow (2009:141) argue that f... ...uding marriage, employment and social work agencies, to give up power (ibid: 257). It quite evident that unless there is a reduction in the power that men still hold over women in society today that feminist theory will not be accepted and recognised. Millet (1971) as cited in Slattery (2003:157) states â€Å"Patriarchy’s chief institution is the family†. For many decades the Catholic Church in Ireland held a tight reign over people in society. Both men and women conformed to what they preached. Women in society were denied their rights by the establishment of reformatories and institutions by the Catholic Church. When a woman fell pregnant and was not married she would be sent to one of these institutions. Society was only informed recently of the terrible ordeals that these women had to succumb to through the publication of many reports that were carried out.

Eulogy for Mother :: Eulogies Eulogy

Eulogy for Mother Daughter of Teresa, granddaughter of Josefa, my mother, Natividad was born in El Paso, Texas on December 24th, 1921. She always told us that she was responsible for the rest of her sisters being born in this country. The family was on its way back to Mà ©xico because PD had closed the mine and was sending workers back to Mà ©xico. The family never got there because of my mother’s birth. She was the only one in her family who was not born in Morenci and although she made sure people knew she was born in Texas, she was very proud to be a â€Å"Morenci girl.† When I asked family members to describe my mother, they used many of the same terms: a private person, very shy, meek, humble, a caregiver, religious, loving, simple tastes, stubborn, intelligent, unassuming, frugal, timid, serious, modest, always put others ahead of herself, and most of all, she did not like being in the limelight. For their fiftieth wedding anniversary, Mama didn’t want us to make a big fiesta. We finally got her to agree to a simple renewal of their vows with only the immediate family present. For her eightieth birthday, we planned a big party with all the extended family invited. Again, she nixed the idea and we finally got her to agree to a small celebration with only her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The party was planned for last Saturday when everyone could come from California, Nevada, and Texas. When I talked to her on her birthday, she told me, â€Å"Can we cancel the party? I feel too weak.† I told her I would not cancel it but postpone it until she felt better. Today we are all here to celebrate my mother’s 80 years of life. It’s not the party we had planned for, and there are many more people than my mother would have been comfortable with, but we’re all here to honor her memory. I know, Mama that you didn’t like to be i n the limelight but today, like it or not, the spotlight is on you. My mother was the fifth child of Teresa and Wenseslado. That put her in the middle of a family of ten children, nine of which survived to adulthood. Maybe being in the middle of such a large family accounted for her demeanor but I think it was also part of her nature.

Statues of David Essay -- essays research papers

There have been many staues of David sculpted by famous artists like Donatello, Verrocchio, and Michelangelo. Bernini’s version of David and is about to begin his attack on Goliath, as he appears posing. The statue seems to be moving through space and the action suggests that the action of flinging the stone requires a lot of room around David. The statue forces the observer to look past the actual subject and focus more on the surroundings. He seems to have very muscular legs, and appears to be ready to turn and throw a stone from his sling. This is the most dramatic pose that Bernini could have picked and was chosen because it shows a sudden burst of energy and a moment of suspense as well. Bernini’s David is different from that of other artists because there is an expression of concentration that makes the statue a more imposing piece of artwork.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Donatello’s David was created for the courtyard of the Palazzo Medici. The statue takes on a different pose, and was one of the first free-standing nude statues of the ancient world. l when compared to Bernini’s, it is more classical. Bernini’s rendition is posing and relaxed like a Greek god would be. Donatello made the ancient Greek style popular during this time. Donatello’s David has long flowing hair and has one of his legs placed firmly on top of the head of Goliath, representing his victory over the behemoth. He portrayed David as the slayer of Goliath and as a symbol of the independent republ...

The Consequences Of Environment Violations Environmental Sciences Essay

The Environmental Impact Assessment ( EIA ) procedure was governed by the EIA Notification ( first issued in 1994 and later revised and issued afresh in 2006 ) which has statutory position under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, the chief statute law regulating EIAs. Thus any violation of the prescribed criterions sum to a statutory misdemeanor. Central to the EIA procedure was the quality of the informations and information collected, presented and analyzed in the EIA which are the indispensable substrate for the determination shapers to make up one's mind over whether to allow environmental clearance to the undertaking or non. Sing the graduated table of the undertaking ( 12 MTPY ) , there was a critical necessity of holding a comprehensive environment impact analysis ( EIA ) for both the steel works every bit good as the confined port. The Ministry of Environment and Forests ( MoEF ) should hold insisted on a comprehensive EIA by roll uping full twelvemonth informations which was besides pointed out by assorted province bureaus and the Regional Office of MoEF. MoEf granted environment clearance on footing of a study based on individual season, this should hold been avoided. Even in instance of the port, the information was collected during September to November 2005, which was the monsoon period. Collection of informations during monsoon period is prohibited by EIA presentment. The POSCO undertaking was an incorporate undertaking embracing different constituents like the township, and other substructure development, which were left out of the range of rapid environment impact appraisal ( REIA ) and other baseline informations. As a consequence of partial EIA, the full environmental impact of the full undertaking was undermined. The EIA both for steel works and confined port was completed by July, 2007. The Regional office of MoEF, Bhubaneswar every bit good as the Orissa Government informed that transcripts of the comprehensive EIA were delivered by manus merely in October 2010 after the elucidation from the member of the commission. Submiting such a basic and critical study three old ages after the clearances was merely an empty formality. The MoEF granted clearance for a portion of the undertaking ( e MTPY ) , this should non hold been the instance, since all the other constituents and substructure of the undertaking, were aimed for the full undertaking.i.e. 12 million dozenss. This was particularly so when the enlargement programs are non sometime in the distant hereafter but contemplated at the rate of addition of 4 million metric tons every two old ages. POSCO should hold been asked to use for clearance of entire capacity. Otherwise, the logical measure would were to curtail the demand of land and the size of the port to the demands of a 4 MTPY capacity works. It inquiries the scientific and proficient prudence of the MoEF. In a recent study the MoEF came out with an environmental pollution index called as Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index ( CEPI ) to assist in categorising the industrial bunchs in footings of precedence of be aftering demands for intercessions. Under this study Paradeep has a CEPI mark of 69.26 which shows that it was a badly contaminated country, merely surrounding on the CEPI of a critically polluted industrial bunch. The concern that the Paradip country was already polluted from bing industries was besides raised during the public hearing but unluckily it was ne'er addressed by any of the determination devising governments. The Technical Committee of the Orissa State Pollution Control Board raised many issues of significant importance specially related to air pollution which were non followed up to its logical terminal. The records do non uncover that these issues were of all time addressed before the clearances were given. However, even before these questions were satisfactorily answered by the undertaking advocate, the company was recommended for clearances and issue of Consent to Establish. This was a serious stepping down of statutory duty by the Orissa State Pollution Control Board. Concerns sing the impact of the POSCO confined port on the bing Paradip Port were repeatedly voiced by the governments every bit good as by the populace. The Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Government of India appears to hold a different position. A inquiry about inauspicious consequence of this confined private port was raised in the Lok Sabha to the Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways during December 2005. The so Minister in charge had replied â€Å" the proposed child port for POSCO steel works may take to terrible eroding along the coastline presenting a menace to the port installations at Paradeep † . The Minister besides stated that the Orissa Government was urged to set about a elaborate survey sing eroding if they decide to develop a minor port for POSCO and should tie in Government of India and Paradeep port with such surveies. Unfortunately the EAC and MoEF did non name for the survey study before giving clearance in 2007. The integrated steel works has a immense H2O demand. As per the Rapid EIA, the H2O demand will be met from Jobra Barrage over the Mahanadi River by puting an 86 kilometre long grapevine. POSCO has already taken an blessing from the Department of Water Resources, Government of Orissa, for backdown of 10 MGD H2O from the Jobra Barrage. The bing viing usage of the H2O resources from the Jobra Barrage are imbibing H2O for Cuttack and Bhubaneshwar metropoliss, irrigation H2O for agribusiness in four territories ( Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Khurda and Kendrapada ) and several industries, and these have non been taken into history. The Water Resources Department has allocated extra H2O from Hansua nalla for building intents which has non been disclosed in the EIA amounting to suppression of the information. The REIA has non addressed the widespread impact that will adversely impact a big population spread in a figure of large towns every bit good as territories. The Committee strongly felt tha t there were many serious oversights and illegalities in the EIA procedure. The EIA for such a megaproject was rapid, based on one-season informations without taking into history all the constituents of the undertaking like the township undertaking, H2O undertaking, railway and conveyance installations etc. Furthermore it was limited merely to Phase I of the undertaking. The infliction of extra conditions to the bing ECs ( conformity with the environment ) will non at all remedy the oversights and illegalities. There were serious misdemeanors with regard to Compliance of Coastal Regulation Zone ( CRZ ) . Some portion of the steel works was expected to come up on CRZ I ( I ) & A ; CRZ III countries which sums to misdemeanor of the CRZ ordinances. Dressing or changing of sand dunes, hills, natural characteristics including landscape alterations for beautification, recreational and other such intents are prohibited, except as permitted under the presentment. But the program was to widen the oral cavity of the brook to utilize it as an attack channel for vass. As per the REIA study for the steel works, a common wastewater intervention works ( CETP ) will be set up to take attention of untreated wastewaters from the production procedure and treated works healthful effluent. After partial usage of the treated H2O, the remainder of the H2O will be let into the sea by a undersea grapevine at 18-20 metres depth by jet diffusion. POSCO-India has non applied for CRZ clearance for this grapevine which amounts to suppression of facts and was a serious misdemeanor. In position of the above observations the commission felt that POSCO-India Pvt. Ltd has non addressed all the issues associating to CRZ presentment. There were a figure of serious oversights and misdemeanors, including suppression of facts. The Committee hence strongly recommended that the Environmental Clearance given by the MoEF dated 15.5.2007 for minor port and 19.7.2007 for the steel works should be instantly revoked. It besides recommended that environment clearance given by the MoE F vide missive dated 15 May 2007 should hence be revoked forthwith. Judgment or Verdict On 31 January, 2011, India ‘s largest FDI was cleared what could be its last hurdle. Environment and Forests Minister Jairam Ramesh gave his concluding finding of fact on South Korean giant POSCO ‘s Rs 52,000 crore steel and excavation undertaking to be set up in Odisha ‘s Jagatsinghpur territory. The nod came with 60 conditions. None of the conditions attached to this concluding blessing undo the sedate misdemeanors or right the concerns reported by three MoEF-appointed commissions. This determination besides fails to keep anyone accountable for the many anomalousnesss already documented, even though go againsting the Environment Protection Act ( EPA ) . In his concluding order, MoEF has asked the steel giant to â€Å" voluntarily forfeit † H2O should occupants fall abruptly of it, since it is Cuttack ‘s imbibing H2O beginning that will provide POSCO ‘s H2O. Another status asks POSCO to measure the impact of this undertaking on the fishing community and place donees, even though it was POSCO ‘s first appraisal that failed to include 1000s of fishermen as undertaking affected. The most confusing status relates to the most controversial facet of this undertaking: POSCO ‘s private port, which is located 12 kilometer from an bing major Paradip port, even though authorities guidelines prohibit two ports within such propinquity. Uncovering inside informations that POSCO had suppressed, the MoEF commission revealed that the port will take to building and waste dumping in high eroding countries in blazing misdemeanor of the Coastal Regulation Zone ( CRZ ) presentment. The port besides endangers the universe ‘s largest nesting evidences for the Olive Ridley polo-necks. In the concluding blessing, MoEF has asked POSCO to guarantee that â€Å" there is no industrial activity in the CRZ zones † . For this to go on, POSCO will hold to wholly redesign its port. It is ill-defined whether this is a pre-condition for the port building. If non, it merely perpetuates the misdemeanors of the CRA Act. Mentions Report of the Committee Constituted to Investigate into the proposal submitted by POSCO India Pvt. Limited for constitution of an Integrated Steel Plant and Captive Port in Jagatsinghpur District, Orissa Submitted to the MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS, Government of India, New Delhi BY MS. MEENA GUPTA on October 18, 2010 hypertext transfer protocol: //www.tehelka.com/story_main48.asp? filename=Ne120211Conditions.asp hypertext transfer protocol: //www.merinews.com/article/supreme-court-allows-posco-to-go-ahead/139110.shtmlMaharashtra Government v/s Union Ministry of EnvironmentBackground of instance The instance is about the permission for puting up a new airdrome in Navi Mumbai. This needed permission from the Ministry of Environment of India, since it had to acquire a clearance of around 400 hectares of forest land. There was a argument since major portion of the Rhizophora mangles would be destroyed taking to harm of the coastal country. Course of Action In November 1997, there was a survey done for the demand of a 2nd Airport, a commission was appointed which suggested site as Rewas Mandwa. In October 2000, State Government writes to Civil Aviation Ministry proposing Navi Mumbai as the site, because of better substructure. Until February, 2010 many studies were submitted by City Industrial and Development Corporation ( CIDCO ) and Experts Appraisal Committee ( EAC ) about the feasibleness, environment impact and other inside informations. During August October 2010 period, there were deliberations to salvage the Rhizophora mangles and to minimise recreation of H2O organic structures. October: A EAC visits site once more, It requests for redesign to forestall hacking of Rhizophora mangles, and recreation of at least one of the two rivers on the site. CIDCO agrees for the same and shifts non-aeronautical zone to the South to salvage around 400 hectares of Rhizophora mangles, reduces distance between tracks to forestall recreation of Gadhi river and minimise impact on Ulwe river. NOVEMBER 20: A Mr. Jai Ramesh, Union Environment Minister gets concluding recommendations from EAC allowing blessing on the status that 32 environmental precautions are met. Opinion The hurdle was cleared for the 2nd airdrome of India ‘s Financial capital. The green nod has been given merely if CIDCO complies to 32 precaution criterions. Cidco will besides hold to seek the permission of the Bombay High Court and the cardinal forest ministry in order to cut down Rhizophora mangles on 98 hectares for the project.A The prominent among the 32 conditions are as follows: CIDCO shall obtain necessary permission from Hon'ble High Court of Bombay for cutting of Rhizophora mangles and clearance under Forest Conservation Act 1980 as per the orders in regard of notice of Motion no. 417 of 2006 in PIL no. 87/2006, as required. CIDCO shall rehabilitate about 3000 households of 7 small towns falling within the part airdrome is traveling to be setup. Plantation of 615 hectares of Rhizophora mangles as biodiversity Parkss as compensation. CIDCO will carry on a study of the avian zoology before the start of the building of the airdrome and every 3 months thenceforth and the same should be uploaded on their web site. Mentions hypertext transfer protocol: //envis.maharashtra.gov.in/envis_data/ ? q=enmianws_nov10 hypertext transfer protocol: //www.washingtonbanglaradio.com/content/111514110-navi-mumbai-airport-gets-environmental-clearanceDahanu Taluka Environment Protection Group and Bittu Sehgal V/S Bombay Suburban Electricity Supply CompanyBackground of instance The instance includes one of the most environmentally endowed countries of Maharashtra ; the taluka of Dahanu situated 120 km North of Mumbai. The economic system of Dahanu is to a great extant agrarian with the support of most of its population linked to the natural resources of that country. Dahanu is an ecologically sensitive part which was classified under the Indian Coastal Regulation Zone ( CRZ ) by the Ministry of Environment and Forest ( MoEF ) . In 1989 the State Government of Maharashtra approved a proposal of the Bombay Suburban Electricity Supply Company ( BSESC ) , to put up a coal-based thermic power works in the Dahanu Taluka. It was challenged by certain environmental groups and citizen organisations that filed a writ request foremost in the Bombay High tribunal under Article 226 of the fundamental law of India and so besides filed a request in the Supreme Court disputing the puting up of the power works in the Dahanu taluka which is classified as a ecological delicate part. Course of action With the blessing of the State Government of Maharashtra, Bombay Suburban Electricity Supply Company ( BSESC ) under the authorization of the Department of Power, Ministry of India started the puting up of a coal-based thermic power works in the Dahanu Taluka.Because of its propinquity to Mumbai ; it has been invariably a victim of environmental pollution and debasement on history of of all time turning belt of industries. The major purpose of the power works undertaking was to provide to the demands of the of all time turning population of Mumbai. Prior to the blessing of the State Government of Maharashtra in 1989, the Environment Department of Government of Maharashtra granted site clearance to the undertaking subjected to the status that company obtain all the needed clearances from the other concerned governments as good. In 1989, the Ministry of Environment and Forest granted project clearance on the environmental angle to the Department of Power, Ministry of India to travel in front with the undertaking. Dahanu was besides declared ‘eco-fragile ‘ by a authorities presentment. As per the presentment under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, the development of industries, mining operations and other development in such a part is restricted. Dahanu was besides notified or classified, under the Indian Coastal Regulation Zone ( CRZ ) by the MoEF on 19 February, 1991. The CRZ bans any new building and development activities within 500 meters of the high tide line. On 29 March 1989, two local environmental militants: Nergis Irani and Kityam Rustom ( Members of the Dahanu Taluka Environment Protection Group ) along with Bombay on a higher Environmental Action Group filed writ requests foremost in the Bombay High Court and subsequently in the Supreme tribunal disputing the determination of the Cardinal Government to construct the power works in malice of the ecological menace confronting the part. The rule expostulations of the suppliants in the request filed in the Bombay High tribunal were: The undertaking violated the status no ( nine ) of the Memorandum of the Government of India necessitating a 500 meters to be kept between the high tide line grade and the construction of the undertaking. The H2O discharged from the chilling works into the brook was adversely impacting the aquatic life in the creek H2O. The misdemeanors of the presentment of conserving the Environment in an Eco delicate part. The Bombay High tribunal rejected the requests on the evidences of several feasibleness surveies and commission studies. Besides, the necessity of supplying power to the metropolis of Mumbai was precedence at that clip. In 1994, environmentalist Bittu Sehgal along with same suppliants filed a writ request in the Supreme Court inquiring the Court to implement the eco-fragile presentment and the CRZ presentment of the Government of India in Dahanu Taluka. The Supreme Court so appointed the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute ( NEERI ) to look into the issues set Forth in the request. Based on the NEERI study, the Supreme Court upheld the Dahanu Notification forbiding any alteration of land-use in the part and ordered that a commission of experts be formed under Section 3 of the Environmental Protection Act of 1986 which was empowered to guarantee the execution of Court waies every bit good as the eco-fragile presentment of 1991. The Authority directed the company to put in an FGD ( Fuel Gas Desulphurisation ) works for the environmental safety and protection and for the well being of Dahanu. The company was besides ordered to do attempts for obtaining gas and utilize it if available in penchant to coal. The thermic power works was taken over from BSESC by Reliance Energy Ltd ( REL ) in 2002 and Dahanu power works continues to run as per the orders of the Indian Supreme Court. Judgment or Verdict The request filed by the environmental groups and citizen organisations in the Bombay High tribunal in 1989 disputing the puting up of the power works in the Dahanu taluka was rejected by the Bombay High tribunal. The suppliants so filled the request in the Supreme Court disputing the misdemeanors of the several environmental presentments. The Supreme Court so appointed an adept commission to look into the issues. The commission directed the company to put in an FGD ( Fuel Gas Desulphurisation ) works and maintain all the emanation parametric quantities good below the criterions. This instance highlights how the post-judgment judicial activism through the Supreme Court appointed supervising commission in the Dahanu Power Plant has ensured the effectual execution of Court orders. Mentions hypertext transfer protocol: //moef.nic.in/index.php www.legalsutra.org www.cpcb.nic.in www.reocities.com www.infochangeindia.orgNiRMA CEMENT PLANT V/S Union ministry of environment and woodsBackground of instance The instance includes one of the most environmentally endowed countries of Padhiarka small town in Bhavnagar territory of Gujarat. The economic system of this part is to a great extant agrarian with the support of most of its population dependent onthree check-dams built in the country between 1998 and 2002 under a Gujarat authorities strategy to extenuate H2O deficits in this drought-prone part. These simple constructions stopped the saltwater and besides stored the rainwater during monsoons in reservoirs, reloading the groundwater. The 1.91-million-tonne-per-annum cement mill, with its coke oven and confined power workss, is being built by the detergent major Nirma. The mill is being built over the Samadhiyala reservoir, a big H2O organic structure constructed by the authorities to supply irrigation. Local husbandmans and villagers have been resolutely opposing this undertaking Course of action On March 12, the Ministry` of Environment had ordered â€Å" lasting suspension of work † with respect to 1.91 million metric ton per annum capacity cement works of Nirma Ltd, along with its confined power and coke oven works near Padhiarka small town in Mahuva taluka of Bhavnagar territory. The determination was taken on the footing of a study by the Experts Appraisal Committee ( EAC ) , which found misdemeanor of the Environment ( Protection ) Act 1986 by the undertakings being set up in a wetland in the territory. Unfortunately, the province authorities has played along with the company in this blind. The land allocated to the mill by the province authorities has been categorised as graze and barren in gross records. It is for this ground, when the Gujarat High Court was hearing the request of the husbandmans, the authorities argued that since the land was non listed as a H2O organic structure it had the right to apportion it to industry. No protection was needed because technically there was no H2O organic structure on this land! The environmental impact appraisal, used to allow clearance to the undertaking, says the works is situated on waste land. It does non advert the rivers that surround the site, conveying H2O to the reservoir. It does non even acknowledge the cheque dike, which the company has vandalised. Subsequently, when the truth of the H2O organic structure was established utilizing satellite imagination, the push was to happen a via media solution. In High Court, the husbandmans were told their H2O organic structure would stay but merely if they agreed to a divider – some 100 hour angle of the lake would be returned for irrigation. But they would hold to hold to give away the remainder, where the mill would be built. Judgment or Verdict The request filed by the Ministry of Environment and Forests Gujrat High tribunal disputing the puting up of the cement works in Padhiarka small town in Bhavnagar territory of Gujarat was rejected by the Bombay High tribunal. Terming it as â€Å" illegal † the way by the Ministry of Environment and Forest ( MoEF ) to hold work on its cement works at Bhavnagar territory in Gujarat, Nirma has said the orders had no binding on the company. The Ministry had on March 12 ordered â€Å" lasting suspension of work † at the 1.91 million metric ton per annum capacity cement works, along with its confined power and coke oven works near Padhiarka small town in Mahuva taluka of Bhavnagar territory. It had besides directed the company to react to a notice as to † why the environmental clearance accorded to the undertaking should non be revoked and arrest of the work non be made lasting † . On the same twenty-four hours, the company wrote a missive to the Environment Ministry saying the way under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act 1986, to halt execution including building work of the undertaking, was â€Å" wholly without legal power or authorization of jurisprudence including in misdemeanor of the rule of natural justness † .

Bishoy Fanous Writing 102 Professor Riveland

Bishoy Fanous Writing 102 Professor Riveland 9 February 2013 The Meaning of Work When one thinks of meaningful work, generally they think of labor that accomplishes a certain goal. They think of a prestigious job or occupation that has meaning to it. But meaningful work can mean a lot more than just a prestigious job or having meaning to something you do. Meaningful work can be as simple as feeding the birds in the park on a Saturday morning. It can be helping someone out or looking out for someone in need.Meaningful work can be defined as enjoyment of the worker, dedication of the worker to the job, and involvement that the worker shows toward his job. When students start to think of jobs, they try to think of something that they would love doing for the rest of their lives. But instead they end up running after well-paying jobs and prestigious jobs. They feel that society would judge them in a way that would put them at the bottom of the job spectrum. So they end up going for a top of the line jobs that give good salaries but at the same time are boring or not meaningful to them.Therefore, when it comes to jobs you want something you will enjoy doing for the rest of your life. You want something that you will satisfy you in life rather then depress you. According to Epstein in the section Work and its Contents from his book he says, â€Å"The most fortunate people of all, though, are those for whom the line between work and play gets rubbed out, for whom work is pleasure and pleasure is in work† (Epstein, 31). In other words, Epstein believes that your job should be close if not the same as your play time or the time you spend doing what pleases you.This can conclude my point that work that is not enjoyable to the person who is doing it gives it no meaning. It does not matter how prestigious or high paying the job is, if it’s not enjoyable, then it will not be meaningful to the person doing it. Also we notice in Epstein’s quote the part w here he says that the line between work and play is rubbed out (Epstein). Basically what he means by that is when you go on with your life doing your hobbies they should be similar, if not close to, what you do as a job for a living.If that’s not so, then the work you are doing is not meaningful to you. When it comes to meaningful work, dedication should be at the top of list. Dedication to work is more of a life style, like for example a doctor’s life style is a lot different from an engineer’s life style. A doctor might see something in a medical way while an engineer might see the same thing in a physical or a mechanical way. A doctor see’s things in a certain way because he dedicated most of his time and effort to this form of life style and in the end he uses it to go through everyday life.The same applies to an engineer and every other profession out there. The profession a person chooses is based on the amount of time and dedication they put in to that field. Dedication can be seen through many people in everyday life. We see it in famous football athletes, movie stars, and even teachers. As the prominent philosopher Malcolm Gla dwell’s talks about The Beatles and Bill Gates as a little kid and how they were dedicated to what they did before they even got paid for it or it was even their job yet.He mentions how The Beatles when they first started performing it was in a strip club and they would perform for long hours every night together without complaining (Gladwell). Many might disagree and say that dedication should be put in everything you do even your job. But the truth is that many people do their job and then they go on living a different life from what they do at work. They show no form of dedication to what they do in their job at home or when they go out with friends or family. If they show no form of dedication then how is it meaningful work to them?It’s not, it just another thing they do throughout t he day like brushing their teeth or showering just because they have to do it and because it’s a daily routine. Many people might say that they are dedicated to their job and they enjoy doing what they do for a living, but that does not necessarily mean that their job is meaningful to them. In order for work to be a hundred percent meaningful to the worker he has to be involved in it. Some might ask how can someone enjoy their job and be dedicated to their job but not be involved? The answer is that think of a football player in the National Football League.He might be dedicated to going to every practice and he might enjoy playing football for a living, but when it comes to game time he ends up not playing and sitting on the bench most of the season. In order for a job to be meaningful to the worker he has to get involved in some way shape or form. Likewise, the football player being benched for most of the season has to find a way to get better. But while he is getting bett er, he has to be involved in other things on the bench, like studying different plays in the play book or following different skills or techniques of other players on the team.This way he will be bumped up to playing more games in the season and end up getting involved in his job. In Thomas Sowell’s magazine, Meaningful Work, he talks about acquiring skills, he says that â€Å"Those relatively few statistics that follow actual flesh-and-blood individuals over time show them moving massively from one income bracket to another over time, starting at the bottom and moving up as they acquire skills and experience† (Sowell, 2). In making this comment, Sowell urges us to work our way up.He urges us to get involved in what we do in order for us to get the skills we need and move up in our work field. Further more going back to involvement, Sowell talks about how statistics show that some people start off with no skills or experiences. But over time through involvement in thei r field of work or study, they gain the skills or experiences they need to move up in their job or their income. This shows that without involvement in what you do for a living you can not have meaningful work or work that gives meaning to what you do.After reading this people might say that enjoyment, dedication, and involvement are not the only things that make work meaningful. But that living up to your goals is what defines meaningful work. I would answer and say that even though that could be a way to define meaningful work it has to involve one of these three topics because a person’s goal will never be to live miserable, but it would be to enjoy life. This can show that my definition of meaningful work is valid because whatever other way a person might want to define meaningful work. They will end up having to satisfy one f these three topics in their definition of meaningful work in order for it to be a valid and acceptable definition. In conclusion, meaningful work c an not just be work that you do for a salary or prestigious. But it has to be work that you enjoy doing everyday. It has to be work that you are dedicated to doing even if the job has a risk to it. Last but not least it has to be work that involves you in some way, not just a job that you go to, to get paid from. If the job you do does not involve one of these three things, then it can not be meaningful to you as a worker.It would be better off for you to not go through the struggle of getting that job, then getting to that job and noticing that it gave no meaning to your life in the sense of working. Work Cited Epstein, Joseph. â€Å"Work and It Contents. †Ã‚  Once More Around the Block. New York: Norton, 1987. Print. Meaningful Work Comes from Passion, Not Genius. Perf. Malcolm Gladwell. Meaningful Work Comes from Passion, Not Genius. Bnet. com, 29 Nov. 2008. Web. 18 Feb. 2013. Sowell, Thomas. â€Å"Meaningful Work. †Ã‚  NationalReview. com  29 May 2012: Web.

Business Model of Amazon Essay

Amazon.com is the pioneering bookstore on the Internet that first opened in July 1995 by Jeff Bezos. The firm offers online shopping services and partnership opportunities such as online search for books, music and video items. The products that they sell include an array of audio, video and book titles. Amazon has one of the widest selections and employs international shipping to virtually every corner of the globe in just a few days. Amazon’s focus is having the biggest selection of free-electronic greeting cards, online auction and millions of books, CDs, videos, DVDs, toys and electronics. They have expanded to different areas of the world, such as Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.de, to service consumers outside of the United States. They aim to be a Cost leader in which their firm has lower costs than the competitors. They have employed different Amazon branches in different parts of the world to lower costs. This allows Amazon to ship their products at a lower price from each po int of shipment to the consumer. In recent years, Amazon.com has expanded from being just an online bookstore to an all around online shopping experience. They have coined the tag line â€Å"Earth’s biggest selection†. Amazon has diversified into different websites. These are the Internet Movie Database (www.imdb.com), LiveBid.com, amazon.livebid.com, drugstore.com (an online retail and information about health and wellness), gear.com (online sporting goods company), homegrocer.com (online grocery shopping and delivery), pets.com (largest pet supply online shopping site), ashford.com (online luxury and premium shopping) and eZiba.com (online retailer of handcrafted products). Five Forces Model for Industry Analysis New Entrants The online bookstore industry that Amazon.com has pioneered in was, at first, very hard to penetrate. There were different barriers such as distributing capabilities and the variety of the selection offered that are supposed to be hurdled. Amazon successfully solved the tricky parameters as being the first one to get into the whole idea of online retail. With being the first, they had the luxury to set what were the norms for the industry. Factors that may lower these barrier tactics would be a wider selection and the  ability to go to an actual bookstore to exchange or return books or other products. This network of â€Å"actual† retail spaces makes it easier for the consumer to return or exchange the products they were not satisfied with. These handicaps of Amazon were the basis for the emergence of book retail giants Barnes and Noble and Borders in the online shopping industry. Industry Competitors The major competitors of Amazon are Barnes and Noble and Borders. Barnes and Noble is a retail giant offering books and CDs both in their outlets all over the country. It opened their online industry in 1997 and has become the fourth largest e-commerce sites today. Focused largely on the sale of books, music, software, magazines, prints, posters, and related products, the company has capitalized on the recognized brand value of the Barnes & Noble name to become the second largest, and one of the fastest growing, online distributors of books. Their â€Å"advantage† to Amazon is the brand name and the availability of actual retail outlets in which consumers could go in to exchange or return products easily. They also have an established book selection based in their retail operations. Borders is another multi-media retail store found in major cities around the country. Started out as a small bookshop in the college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan, it has since expanded into one of the finest bookstores. In 1992, Borders was bought by the Kmart group which further flourished the company into a Multi Media Giant with a wide selection of Audio, Video and Books found throughout the United States. The Online Bookstore industry have become a fierce business which involves discounts, varied selections and fast delivery in which all three companies are challenging each other. Buyers The consumers of this industry can be found in every corner of the population. These are mostly people who have had some form of higher education and have access to the Internet and computers. The segment of online shoppers has increased dramatically in recent years due to the convenience of shopping in the comforts of the home and the accessibility of the Internet. These developments have made it easier for consumers to log on and buy on the Internet. Consumers also tend to compare prices among the retail leaders such that buyers are able to buy products with very big  discounts compared to ones bought in â€Å"actual† retail outlets. The bargaining power of the consumer is based on the competitive strategies of each active firm in the industry. Thus, consumers can challenge one firm for charging more than the other one such that the firm will beat the price of the competing firm. Suppliers Amazon’s suppliers range from the publishing and media houses to electronics’ manufacturers. Amazon buys all their books, videos and audio CDs from the multi media houses and publishing giants such as Time Warner, Doubleday etc. Amazon also has alliances with other bookstores to cover orders that they cannot serve. Substitutes The substitutes for Amazon and other online bookstores are the â€Å"actual† book retailers and music stores such as Barnes and Nobles, Virgin Megastore, Tower Records, Sam Goody and other small mom-and-pop outlets. With the rise of online retail, there will be little impact from these substitutes. One impact would be some consumers who would like to hold or listen to their purchases prior to buying and those who are into the whole â€Å"shopping experience†. Barnes and Nobles have jumped into online retail and have succeeded into diversifying into the new e-commerce industry. Industrial Organization Model Degree of Competition Due to the shift of focus for Amazon, it has become the â€Å"Earth’s biggest anything store†. Its competitors have expanded from just online book retailers Barnes and Nobles and Borders to top audio retailers CDNOW.com and online auction house EBAY.com. Amazon has an overall lead of 40% market share against the other online retail firms. Their international business has more than doubled over the past 2 years and this growth increased Amazon’s share in the online business market. Life Cycle Amazon, in it’s first years, had negative income but the rise of e-commerce sites and being the pioneer made the succeeding years led to boom time for them. Their growth period was during 1994 to 1995 when they were the first of its kind in the world. They incurred very high costs in terms of  distributions to customers. Still with a negative income, Amazon went public in 1997 and had one of the biggest IPOs of the time. With investors banking on future positive cash flow for this company, Amazon’s market value soared. Many people caught on with the idea of online shopping, thus, Amazon’s success. Amazon’s success as an online retailer prompted bricks-and-mortar rivals Barnes and Noble and Borders to join in. Competition decreased Amazon’s profitability so in the past couple of years, Amazon has expanded to more than books, audio and video to electronics and other retail concepts. Social Relevance Amazon’s products are marketed for every consumer possible. Books, audio, video and electronics are appreciated by majority of the population especially those who have access to the Internet. Amazon is active in pursuing literacy programs for young children by collaborating with the makers of the Dr. Seuss books. They have actively participated in the Dr. Seuss shops, story telling sessions and Dr. Seuss days. Degree of Globalization Amazon’s strength internationally lies within its networks in major ports and cities around the Globe. Amazon first started out in Seattle but as soon as they have established a niche market, they have opened shop all over the nation and in cities such as London, Berlin, The Hague, Paris, Tokyo, Singapore and many more. These branches overseas improves their delivery service to a wide consumer base. Extent of Government Control There has not been many government regulations regarding online retailing. A group of CEOs whose firms that are engaged in such practices have formed an organization called Global Business Dialogue. This GBD group supports the development of a seamless global system that delivers the broadest array of goods and services to the largest number of consumers at the most competitive prices. This work effort will: offer recommendations to the WTO, including making the moratorium on online tariffs permanent; and collaborate with governments to target and eliminate discriminations against, or other non-tariff barriers to global trade in, electronic commerce. This working group will also provide an avenue for the GBDs to consider and promote the  growth of the electronic marketplace in an environment unencumbered by detrimental taxation. Degree of Vertical Integration Amazon’s primary value chain includes purchasing/sourcing, marketing, distribution and after-sales services, which includes returns and exchanges from unsatisfied customers. Their main focus is in the purchasing/sourcing and in the distribution of the products to the consumers. Their investments are therefore, geared towards warehouses in key points of high consumer demand areas and an efficient delivery and distributing system to service all its consumers. Thus, Amazon controls most of its distributing system that spans across borders. Inter Organization of Network Economics Amazon in its efforts to sustain its market leadership in the online retailing industry has tied up with various online organizations. Netscape Navigator and Amazon will offer members of Netscape Netcenter a co-branded storefront where Earth’s Biggest Bookstore will be easily accessed through Netscape Netcenter (home.netscape.com). In addition, Amazon.com has multi-year exclusive and premier bookseller relationships with 5 of the top 6 sites on the World Wide Web: AOL.com, Yahoo!, Netscape, GeoCities, and Excite. These partnerships widen Amazon’s presence in the World Wide Web. Sensitivity to Business Cycles The Online retailing business has a very quick cyclical growth. Amazon being one of the firsts to venture in this type of commerce are all ready in what seems to be in their decline stage where market share is declining. Therefore, Amazon is expanding to different industries within online retailing. Amazon and other online retailing firms are very sensitive to business cycles due to the speed of technology involved in the services they offer. Dynamics of New Knowledge Generation Online retailing relies on the work of an excellent distribution system. Amazon has invested their money into expanding their network of distribution centers around the globe. They also have investments in creating better technology for tracking orders and giving efficient delivery systems for their customers. Amazon.com has remained on top of the online retailing  business despite the entrance of giants such as Barnes and Nobles and Borders. Their success is attributed to two factors; timing and continuing to invest heavily into the inventory and distribution systems. Amazon, by being the first of its kind, has a big lead over the nearest competitors due to their experience and its reputation as the first movers. Their thrust remains on improving efficient delivery systems across borders and to build name recognition as the number one retailing firm in the Internet. They have also ventured into different retail options to keep that lead. Marketing, Innovative inventory and distribution systems, and name recall have helped Amazon build a sustainable competitive advantage. In order for any online retail company to remain prosperous and income generating, they must invest a lot of time and money into research and development of more efficient operations and distributions systems. This proved to be key for the Market Leader in online retailing, Amazon.Com. Mary Grace Velasco,College of Business Administration,Senior, Fordham University,Fall 2000