Article summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 5

Article summary - Essay Example However, some senators and presidential candidates have been opposing this approach of the government by suggesting that revenues should be increased by restricting the deductions in the income tax. According to the, this approach will definitely help the government collect more taxes in such a way that it will not put burden on the middle class. The author of the article believes that Obama is likely to consider both suggestions, which include increasing tax rates and limiting income tax deductions. Republicans are in favor of lowered tax rates because it will help the government in increasing the level of growth. They believe that higher taxes would lead the country away from the pro-growth tax reform. Republicans also seem to be opposing other steps of the government, such as, premium support proposal for Medicare, school-choice programs, and vouchers. Summing it up, the article seems to be written in opposition to the steps likely to be taken by the American government for improving the economy of the country. Will, George. A Fiscal Cliff of the Democrats’ Own Choosing. Azstarnet.com, 29 Nov. 2012. Web. 04 Dec. 2012.

H Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

H - Assignment Example This includes: It is important to ensure that you stay away from carbon monoxide dense areas, for instance near factories that emit toxic gases, near vehicle exhaust pipes and other cigarette smokers. It is crucial to consider staying safe as this reduces your chances of getting back to smoking and helps you reduce continuous intoxication. Avoiding these areas will help in ensuring that the lung cleaning process is successful. It is important to eat healthy foods and also consider taking lots of fruits especially pineapples. Pineapple is a fruit that contains an essential component known as Bromelin which helps in cleaning the lungs and further for enhancing free supply of oxygen. After consuming the pineapples, you will take in deeper breaths thus boost the elastic limits of your lungs. It is important to weigh up the eating patterns and make adjustments on the diet when needed. There are a lot of healthy foods to eat in the present day and live healthy as much as foods that improve the performance of the lungs are essential. There are spices and herbal medicines that play a major role in cleansing the lungs which include rosemary, avocados, thyme, cayenne, horseradish and ginger. These are food complements that can be served or prepared with other food. On the other hand, it is also advisable to seek medical advice or guidance from a qualified nutritionist on what to eat in order to successfully cleanse the lungs. Engaging in workout programs has never been so helpful than it is in cleansing the lungs. Long term smokers are always advised to begin with less strenuous exercises or small amounts of work outs that multiplies as time goes by. This is because, during the exercises, it is possible to note the increase in Phlegm and mucus in the lungs. This will be enhanced especially by coughing. This is the greatest part of exercise programs as the lungs biologically try to remove the toxic substances. Over and above, it is advisable to ensure

Business Essays Corporate Governance

Business Essays Corporate Governance Corporate Governance Executive Summary The main goal of the report is to evaluate the current corporate governance of a certain organization. In this report, the company that has given emphasis is a food retailing company which operates in UK. This company has been able to have effective corporate governance. However, there are still issues that should be given attention in order to ensure that the company is implementing effective corporate governance. The report includes the analysis of the corporate governance structure of the company as well as the issues concerning the board of the organisation. Furthermore, this report also analyses the positive and the negative aspects of the corporate governance implemented in the organisation.All in all it can be concluded that the company has been able to have as strong and systematic corporate governance to ensure quality output. Late in the 1980s, it became apparent that a fundamental shift in the power relationship between a firm’s shareholders and its professional managers was taking place. Shareholders increased their control over the firm’s professional managers, demanding that managers respond more quickly to poor financial performance and to changes in the competitive environment. Stockholders were becoming increasingly dissatisfied with management’s slowness and the ineffectiveness of their actions in trying to adapt to new environmental conditions. Many stockholders became convinced that management did not keep the shareholders’ interests in mind while developing and implementing new strategies. Numerous stories have appeared in the business press chronicling the efforts of shareholders to exert control over corporate management. Fortune magazine’s January 11, 1993, issue featured a cover story by T. Stewart titled â€Å"The King Is Dead,† proclaiming the death of the imperial corporate presidency (Chaganti Sherman, 1998). An increasing number of chief executive officers have been forced to relinquish control of their organizations to others who will more quickly implement massive corporate change. According to Stapledon (1996), corporate governance can be defined as a system that is used in order to direct and control companies. As a matter of fact, this idea applies to all business sectors all throughout the world such as the banking institutions, financial corporations and other types of businesses such as the retailing industry. In particular, corporate governance refers to the examination of the control of a company as utilized by its directors. In accordance to theory, the directors of public companies are held responsible for their action by their shareholders (Davies, 1999). On the other hand, the authority of the shareholders to influence the behavior of the company directors is limited in practice and is rarely exercised. This then provides directors of considerable power to take action as they see fit. However, this is not always the case as it appears to be relatively different form that of the government in which the action of the officials is slightly restrained b y certain actions of the people it governs. Corporate governance, as a term, has come to imply good, in the non-moral as well as the moral sense. Its non-moral applications include efficient decision making, appropriate resource allocation, strategic planning, and so on (Monks Minow, 2001). Nonetheless, in its moral sense good corporate governance has come to be seen as promoting an ethical climate that is both morally appropriate in itself, and consequentially appropriate in that ethical behavior in business is reflected in desirable commercial outcomes (Francis, 2000). Thus, the links here are with due diligence, directors duties, and the general tightening of corporate responsibility. Corporate governance should set a proper example of good intent, and provide for those lower in corporate hierarchies the clear message that it is â€Å"do as I do† as well as â€Å"do as I say† (Francis, 2000). Middle and lower management find it hard to be ethical when it seems that the top of the corporate hierarchy have no commitment. The message of sincerity will always filter down, and no amount of deception will foster the view that a board is ethical when it plainly is not. Additionally, the commitment to ethical corporate governance by a board will enhance the prospects of an ethical infrastructure within the organization. That ethical infrastructure is a manifestation of the commitment, a means of preventing and resolving ethical problems, and an impressive demonstration of sincerity. Primarily, the objective of this paper is to analyse the corporate governance implemented in the company. Herein, the company that will be given emphasis is a food retailing company. Overview of the Company Kay (1995) stated that food retailing in Britain is dominated by six chains and that the oldest and largest is the company that will be analysed in this report. The founder started the company by establishing its first grocery store in south London over a century ago, and the family tradition and the philosophy of good quality products at competitive prices have remained central to the firm ever since. Conservatively managed, the company came to the stock market only in 1973 and since then has expanded steadily from its loyal, and mostly southern, customer base. Founded in the year 1869 in London, John and his wife established their first shop, a dairy business in an area called Drury Lane. Because of the fact that Drury Lane was considered as one of the underdeveloped areas in the city back then, the shop managed to gain recognition in the area as it had products that were inexpensive despite the fact that they were of high-quality. Due to the business’ resounding success, two more shops later on opened at other streets. In the year 1882, the firm already had four shops that were in operation. But this didn’t stop the owner from further expanding his business. Hence, he unveiled his plans to have a storehouse in a town in northwest London in order to accommodate his growing number of supplies. At the same time, it was in this place that the first brand product of the company, namely bacon kilns, was made. Consequently, it was in the same year that the company opened its first branch in a town called Croydon. Unlike the other towns, Croydon was prosperous. And so, the shop here sold superior quality products. Not to mention, it looked much better than the previous shops that had opened. From here on, Sainsbury would continue to grow. At present, this food retailing has been able to hold on to the lead in the market. As a matter of fact, the company is pretty much advanced in many aspects, especially with regards to technology and of course, its fresh products. The company was the first to be able to use scanning and computerized stock control technology. In addition, it had implemented certain techniques such as sales-based ordering. All-in-all, these factors contributed greatly to the company’s competitive advantage that it is currently enjoying. Not to mention, its computerized energy management has helped bring down the consumption of energy. Moving on, the firm has a wide range of products. In fact, during the year 1994, its number of products multiplied more than twice its original number. And as of the moment, the business continues to pride itself with its specialty in fresh foods such as fruits, breads and low-fat milks. Even up to now, their customers continue to demand for even better products which the company efficiently responds to. The corporation is now mainly concentrated on their business in the UK (United Kingdom). This includes the supermarkets, the bank and its recently acquired stores which sells bells. Moreover, the company now has other products which are not food-associated such as home equipment, beauty products, clothing apparel and other general merchandise. As of March 2004, figures indicate that the firm is operating at least 583 supermarkets and it also has 50 banking centers which are housed in the stores themselves and as a result, the workforce has ballooned to about 153,000 people. Nature and Style of Governance It can be said that the company has a very good framework that has been established in order to deal with different corporate matters. In fact, there is usually a properly structured program that is further reinforced by company policies and other procedures for the proper guidance of the directors in their daily duties. Consequently, the company has a clear reference guide to its business operations and corporate governance. The Board of Directors which oversee the businesses and the decision-making routines as well as the financial aspect of things, keeps watch. In addition, this includes the maintenance of the standards with regards to corporate governance in the corporation’s different sectors. The Board is made up of ten directors; two are executive while six are non-executive. Because of this, there is a fair division of responsibilities and other tasks among them. And while the non-executive directors are independent from the others, they are still able to contribute their experience and knowledge during Board discussions. Without a doubt, The Board is in-charge of caring for the company’s operations, assets, and its shareholders. All-in-all, the board aims to work with these factors in the hopes of maximizing performance. Because of this, it is The Board that is responsible for the finalization of budgets and strategic plans. And in order to ensure the firm’s competent operations, The Board conducts a monthly review of the company’s businesses in relation to its financial movements. Furthermore, there is a company law that obliges The Board of Directors to carefully prepare each year, a financial report that would have to be accurate and reliable reflecting the true state of the company. All things considered, The Board of Directors is the one that is responsible for the proper safekeeping of accounting statements and to ensure that these records are precise and truthful. In addition, the board is in-charge of guarding the company’s other assets as well as making the necessary steps in order to prevent complications such as fraud and other types of risks. Aside from the board of directors, the company also has other committees as part of their corporate governance. Just like the board, other committees have a well-established reference guide which also discusses their duties and their scope of authority within the corporation.Composed typically of independent directors who are non-executive, the remuneration committee handles the outline for the company’s remuneration policy which would eventually be reviewed by the board. Moreover, this group is also responsible for the various remuneration packages that are given to executive directors. On the other hand, there is also a nomination committee which is also made up of mostly non-executive directors. The responsibility of this group is to recommend to The Board on which people should be appointed as directors. Finally, there is also a group known as the audit committee. Compared to the other two, the members of this committee is purely composed of non-executive directors. This group’s duty is to make proper recommendations with regards to the company’s accounting policies as well as overseeing financial control within the corporation (Sternberg, 1998) . For this reason, the committee usually receives and reviews financial reports and other statements delivered to them. Then, they make a comprehensive report before they submit it to The Board. Of course, there is also the group’s evaluation of the risks involved which has always been done to assist with the company’s next business move, and have further control of the corporation’s different operations. Issues Concerning the Board The board of directors is responsible for ensuring that the organization always has the best business performance and corporate governance. However, there are several issues that concern the board. One of which is in terms of the level of skill and care expected of the directors, specifically the non-executive directors. All non-executives should take note of the following comments in the Report, which could well foreshadow the approach of a court: â€Å"It must be recognised that non-executive directors may bring different skills to a board, some quite specialised, and that such persons may have limited accounting experience. However, accounting is not so complicated that such directors should be excused responsibility for the accounts. Accounting issues can be clearly explained so as to be understood by sensible laymen. If accounts are gone through carefully, explaining significant items in them, laymen should be able to ask pertinent questions and make informed judgments thereon. If, after all this, the layman cannot understand the companys accounts, then he ought not to be a director of that company. Often it is the director with little accounting experience whose common sense may lead him to question what those with accountancy experience may let pass. The accountings issues in respect of which some make criticisms were nearly all ones which involved no accounting complexity and what was acceptable and what was not should have been obvious to any reasonable director possessed of the facts who sensibly applied his mind to the issue. In most instances, those directors who decided to adopt the accounting were in a better position than the auditors to determine whether the treatment applied was acceptable or not. Those directors were thus not entitled to suspend their own independent judgment and rely upon the fact that the auditors failed to prevent them from adopting an unacceptable course. Another issue that concerns the Board is in terms of inadequate financial information. There are time that some of the members of the board, never prepared or presented to the Board any consolidated budgets or managements accounts which brought together the budgets and results of all the divisions in the Group. The absence of consolidated management accounts facilitated the practice of unacceptable year end adjustments being made by the accountant directors, unbeknown to most of the other directors, to create extra reported profits. In the last few years, the first the board as a whole knew of the results to be published was when the preliminary or interim announcement was circulated for information at the close of the board meeting that invariably occurred the day prior to announcement. In effect, the board as a whole never discussed the details of the results or what lay behind them. The main boards lack of understanding of the composition of the reported results was an extraordinary state of affairs which no director should ever have tolerated. Positive Aspects of Governance The Board has been able to attain complete control of all matters regarding the company. Their self-perseverance and obligation to their duties and finally, their obedience to the company laws all contribute to the development of the corporation. As such, The Board constantly believes that all the data pertaining to financial information and other facts regarding to their operations that are currently being used is reliable. The Board’s authority is clearly recognized within the company. And because of this, it is able to have a solid grip on the corporation’s actual operations, stakeholders and its financial concerns. Needless to say, because of the corporation’s proper structure and its commitment to the stakeholders and to the community as well, the board of directors has proven that it can efficiently handle both its ethical and legal responsibilities. Furthermore, the company is currently maintaining good relations and open communications with its investors. As a matter of fact, shareholders are regularly invited by the corporation whenever there are gatherings to discuss trade updates. Moreover, whenever there is an annual general meeting, investors get the chance to meet The Board members themselves. And of course, for private investors, they can also access the company’s website for various shareholder services. Undoubtedly, the company has good consideration for all of its stakeholders; past, present and future. There definitely seems to be a very well planned framework in the firm’s corporate division. It has good policies and procedures with regards to financial matters and operational concerns. Its procedure of assessing the different kinds of situations that come up is certainly a good move on their part. Not to mention, they have maintained good relations with their stakeholders. And finally, The Boardâ€⠄¢s authority is unsurpassed. Clearly, these facts prove the strength of the company’s corporate governance structure. Negative Aspects The weakness on this case however, is the fact that it cannot always be assured that there are no losses or other errors which may result from mistakes and inconsistencies by one of the committees or employees involved. In addition, having diverse populations, there can be a possibility of having internal problems between members who have different culture and beliefs. In addition, some problems occur in terms of giving value to the companies’ shareholders. There are times that the shareholder is not given the enough information about the status of the company, specifically that shareholder which have a small part in the business. This happens when the board of directors does not give value to their shareholders. Other negative aspects include the imperfection of financial reporting procedures which may definitely result in ineffective corporate governance. Recommendation Corporate governance is said to be one of the most important aspects to be considered in an industry. Hence, it is recommended that the company should be able to determine the most appropriate and effective corporate governance structure and approach so as to ensure that the business will adhere to all social responsibilities, legal and ethical aspects. In addition it is also recommended that this food retailing industry should give value not only to its customers and employees but most especially to the shareholders who have trusted the company and its capabilities. The company must be able to align carefully their corporate governance approach with its organizational objectives. Conclusion Corporate governance is a process which is concerned about how corporations are managed, how managers are governed, what questions face by boards of directors and the accountability a corporation has to shareholders. In this case, it can be seen that the food retailing industry has been able to implement effective corporate governance which guides the organization to become more competitive in the marketplace. Accordingly the issues concerning the board include the level of skill and care expected of the directors and inadequate financial information. In order for the organization to address the issue, the members of the board are trying to create a resolution for these issues. In terms of positive aspects, the members of the company have been able to contribute well in ensuring competitive performance of the company. The board of directors of this organization ensures that all their actions are legal and adheres to business ethics. In addition, they also ensure that their social responsibility is also incorporated with their accountabilities. Although the company has positive aspects, it also has its negative aspects. One of which adheres to the notion that, because of the mistakes and inconsistencies of the individual involved, it cannot always be assured that there will be no losses or errors that will occur. In ability to handle diversities and differences is also a negative aspect that can be attached with the company’s corporate governance practice. Lastly, inability to ensure shareholder value is another negative aspect of the company. It is said that the shareholder is regarded as the central stakeholder of each industry. It can be concluded that in order for the company to have a competitive business performance, the company must start from within, from its corporate governance. Reference Chaganti, R., Sherman, H. (1998). Corporate Governance and the Timeliness of Change: Reorientation in 100 American Firms. Westport, CT: Quorum Books. Davies, A. (1999). A strategic approach to corporate governance. London: Gower Publishing Limited. Francis, R. (2000). Ethics and Corporate Governance: An Australian Handbook. Sydney, N.S.W.: University of New South Wales Press. Kay, J. (1995). Foundations of Corporate Success: How Business Strategies Add Value. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Monks, R.A.G. and Minow, N. (2001). Corporate governance. 2nd ed. Oxford: Blackwell Publishes Ltd. Stapledon, G. (1996). Institutional Shareholders and Corporate Governance. Oxford: Clarendon Press. Sternberg, E. (1998). Corporate governance: accountability in the marketplace. London: The Institute of Economic Affairs.

Millers Irony and the Truth about American Witch Hunts Essay -- Polit

Silence has pervaded every imaginable recess in the old dilapidated courthouse. A hundred silent onlookers hold their breath in baited anticipation. Suddenly, the dull sound that only wood can make as it slams into an desk echoes for what may as well be all eternity. A single man garners the attention of two hundred eyes as he unintentionally clears his throat. However his lips only are able to take form around one bloodcurdling word: guilty. Although of what crime depends on the time period of the aforementioned case, for trials such as these have occurred in American History not once but twice. The first began back in the 1600's in a little town known as Salem Massachusetts, where people were killed for crimes of witchcraft. The second instance, while not quite as known for bestowing rigor mortis still put ruin on the lives of many. Trials in the 1950's fueled by McCarthyism and the idea that communism was invading the United States led to the blacklisting of many people as supposed socialists. Arthur Miller saw the real story of the trials for supposed unamericans during his time and he set about making it known to the public. However, had miller outright stated his views he would have found himself in the same position as those who's stories he tried to tell. Therefore he devised a creative solution; he wrote a story based on events in the Salem witch trials that is nearly perfectly symbolic of the McCarthyism trials. Miller's extensive [use of] irony in the crucible reveals the actual motives behind events carried out during the Salem witch trials, and thereby he exposes the dark truth of what happened during 1950's McCarthyism trials on Unamerican activities. Even in the very beginning Miller wastes no time in d... ... in the court goes back to the confession of John proctor. He finally admits to his sin after months of concealing it and then Danforth and the court bluntly say to him â€Å"she spoke nothing of lechery, and this man has lied.† (113?) This shows that when an actual bit of truth is presented to the lawmen, they reject it and again side with the liars. The situational irony lies in the fact that when Proctor confesses his sin, the court rejects his confession altogether on only the evidence of his wife's claim. These three examples of irony are perhaps the most important of all in relation to McCarthyism. They reveal that the court itself may represent unfairness in its proceedings. (jr 23?) Miller urges his readers to believe that the judges not only believed liars and rejected the truth, but also that they pushed for the convictions rather than a fair trial.

Culture of the 1950s Essay

Websites allow global product and services distribution through intranets, extranets and internet Websites. Both groups of designers and professional analysts concur that a well-designed user interface is an essential component that improves the appeal and operation of the Web, allowing â€Å"browsers† or â€Å"tourists† to be converted into â€Å"customers† and â€Å"residents. † Recognizing demographic diversity and understanding the users are the two main focus of attention in the user-interface development process. However, these differences may demonstrate worldwide cultures in a global economy. The impact of culture in web content and tools is a factor which companies that aim to engage in online international business should consider. Few important pointers should be regarded. For instance, a person has a favorite website, how might this site be understood in countries like Paris, USA, London, Japan, or India, assuming that enough verbal translation are carried out? There might be something in a website’s metaphors, interaction, mental model or even the appearance offend or alienate a user. The date, most Culture of the 1950s is one of the controversial periods in American history marked by changes in worldviews of people and equal rights movements, new social values but old traditions dominated in the society. The World Wars had a great impact on cultural, political, social and economic life changing thinking and values of people. The post-war period of time became a watershed between ‘old’ and ‘new’ world of meaning, economy and ideas. Thesis The 1950s represents a time of disruption because the old values were rejected by the society but new ones had not been formed and accepted yet. The first half of the XX century changed greatly views of people and their destinies. The large-scale death and destruction exacted by World War II destroyed the security that had made current history a comfortable approach to international politics. The 1950s became an edge of the social change marked the beginning of the XX century. Such values as consumerism, trendy way of life and stylish goods were rejected by the society faced with grievances and disillusionment of war time (Fukuyama 8). Further support for the old social orientation to man’s impulses has been provided recently by a growing body of literature which seeks to document the innately violent and aggressive aspects of human behavior (Booker 34). In all these converging views of human nature, trust, intimacy, and openness are virtually self-destructive, and vulnerability and unguarded expressiveness become a positive threat. In this area, the puritan code was most explicit and ponderous. During 1950s, Americans did not have ‘a culture of consensus’ influenced by diverse social factors and liberation movements: the social life was influenced by feminist ideas and racial question. The second wave of feminism was diverse and involved lesbian, black, liberal and social feminism movements. Sexual liberation was a factor which had a great influence on the national idea during the middle of the XX century. Women paid particular attention to the role of sexual relations and sexual freedom in the society and their role in formation of self and universal order. Martin Luther King organized antiracial campaigns addressing a very important problem of racial inequality in America and its impact on the society. King expected that many people would â€Å"awake† from long sleeping and start fighting, because the established Constitution grants the right to the populace, and no doubt that in modern society the main role is featured to democracy and liberty. Social differences also influenced culture and led to the disruption (Booker 24). During the previous period, the good life consisted of work, work conducted with a religious attitude, for work was dedicated to God. The new way of liberation movements promulgated ideas of equality and equal pay for men and women contracted with the old values and norms (Fukuyama 237). Old social order and worldviews were rejected but the society did not create new values and traditions to replace the old ones. The puritan ethos in itself contained a number of crucial inconsistencies. They were exacerbated by the appearance of a set of values deriving from and entirely different source and based on an entirely contradictory set of premises about the nature of man. There were the democratic values founded on the assumption that man is innately good and trustworthy and that society is a contract among men that should enhance rather than restrain man’s humanity (Fukuyama 186). The themes of equality, social responsibility, democracy, liberty, and fraternity confronted the already internally conflicting themes of the world view and resulted in a dizzying welter of confusion and paradox. The internally paradoxical aspects of old views, combined with new democratic values together constitute anything but the disruption. In spite of the fact that some critics see 1950s as the ‘consenual period’, Derbyshire explains that The main reason the 1950s looks so good to so many of us is that in moving from the old order to the new, we lost much of our civilizational confidence. You may say that that confidence was misplaced, or an illusion; you may even say that it was obnoxious, and good riddance to it; and you may be right on all points† (Derbyshire cited Young & Young 29). American young people have inherited a â€Å"spurious† culture, a set of inconsistent arrangements and attitudes which have necessitated a variety of psychological and sociological stratagems aimed at disguising the basic lack of integrity and consistency in our culture. In the novel â€Å"On the Road†, Jack Kerouac vividly portrays this process through life and expectations of the main characters, Sal and Dean. Denial, self-deception, compartmentalization are some of the stratagems employed to cope with this disturbing state of affairs (Fukuyama 76). Kerouac portrays that segment of the younger generation was attacking the value orientations deriving from our puritan heritage. Such a direct and open-eyed confrontation was precisely what was necessary before any resolution of some of the inconsistencies can be attained. Sal says: I realized that these were all the snapshots which our children would look at someday with wonder, thinking their parents had lived smooth, well-ordered, stabilized-within-the-photo lives and got up in the morning to walk proudly on the sidewalks of life, never dreaming the raggedy madness and riot of our actual lives, our actual night, the hell of it, the senseless emptiness (Kerouac 208). It is just this resolution that the new generation were exploring in their alternative versions of â€Å"the good life†. The new generation interpreted the success goals of their parents as extremely constricting and threatening, and they were highly sensitive to the props adults use to buttress lives that were somehow less than fulfilling. Cultural diversity (and a new wave of immigration) added social tension and heated liberation movements. Perhaps the most interesting parts of the new ethic were themes which can be seen as not traditional or indigenous, that was the genuinely â€Å"foreign† elements, which because they were new arouse the most alarm, fear, and often repressive responses on the part of adults. The merchants of popular culture used the felicitous phrase, the â€Å"beat† generation, to refer to the group of people who celebrate the present and attempt to experience it as timelessly and intensely as possible. Being was desired for its own sake and becoming disappeared as a desired way of life (Booker 65). For instance, the novel by Jack Kerouac originated in racial fetishism and reflected vocabulary and language typical for diverse society and culture. Immigrants had an impact on literature and language using specific vocabulary and colloquialisms typical for their cultures (Nicholls 525). Another element which must be regarded as distinctly new was the attitude toward affluence, money, and private property on the part of these young people. Traditional adult success was regarded by them as â€Å"too expensive,† that was requiring too much sacrifice of the self, and of spontaneity, freedom and integrity, and giving too little in return (Fukuyama 270). In sum, the 1950s represents a time of disruption influenced by a mixture of the old and new social values. The decline of traditional culture encour ¬aged individualism which placed the self at the centre of concerns. Increasing social diversity led to a general relativism, not just in matters of taste or morals but even in matters of fact. These values were genuinely believed, there is no doubt, on the part of the parents, but the parents’ life experiences were so different as to locate them in a different culture. Life experiences were drastically different from the secure and protected environment before the WWII. The 1950s represents the disruption influenced by persona experiences of two different generations, cultural diversity and new social order. Works Cited 1. Booker, M. K. The Post-Utopian Imagination: American Culture in the Long 1950s. Greenwood Press, 2002. 2. Fukuyama, F. The Great Disruption: Human Nature and the Reconstitution of Social Order. Free Press; 1st edition, 2000. 3. Kerouac, J. On the Road. New York: Viking, 1957. 4. Nicholls, B. The Melting Pot That Boiled Over: Racial Fetishism and the Lingua Franca of Jack Kerouac’s Fiction MFS Modern Fiction Studies, 49 (2003): 524-549. 5. Young, W. H. , Young, N. K. The 1950s (American Popular Culture Through History). Greenwood Press, 2004.

Cost Benefit Analysis Essay

When operating a business or managing a project, there are many moving parts that need to be discussed, evaluated, and/or implemented. A very effective tool that can help that can help in a business decision or project is running a cost benefit analysis. Running this analysis will help a project manager determine how well, or how poorly, a planned action will turn out (John Reh, 2014). This type of analysis relies on the addition of positive factors and the subtraction of negative ones to determine a net result (John Reh, 2014). When putting a together a cost benefit analysis for a big production company like Bubble Films, it is a big project to own. Having 150 employees spread out into multiple states makes it difficult to get all the information needed. There are many factors when you are dealing with multiple areas of operation to provide an accurate cost benefit analysis. The cost of networking equipment and the power it takes to operate them. The amount of cloud space and the security used to protect it and the power to operate. Once you start operating outside of the office, conducting an accurate cost benefit analysis. With the employees working at home, are they working the full day or a few hours here and there? Do you have to pay for their use of electricity and internet, per diem? Is it more cost effective to put everyone in an office rather than work at home? Many questions have to be answered to create and effective analysis. Cost benefit analysis is a very important tool to use when pitching a new idea or project. This will show the investor, project manager, or CEO’s exactly where their money is going to go and how they are going to make a return. It also helps identify flaws in the budget and whether a company can expand or downsize. References John Reh, F. (2014). Cost Benefit Analysis. Retrieved from http://management.about.com/cs/money/a/CostBenefit.htm

Intellectual Property Example

Intellectual Property Example Intellectual Property – Coursework Example Intelectual Property Law Reed’s argument that Reed had no foreknowledge of the existence of Raybok would not be justified on the grounds that he did not have fore knowledge that Raybok already existed because according to the USPTO, â€Å"The principal factors considered by the examining attorney in determining whether there would be a likelihood of confusion† includes when â€Å"similarity of the marks; and the commercial relationship between the goods and/or services listed in the application† (All Experts, 2011). What is even worse is that ignorance of the law is no excuse. Moreover, not only is there similarity in product but then there is similarity in the sound of the name of Reed’s shoe line with Raybok. Jassin (2011) posits that â€Å"if a company can demonstrate that another companys name could cause confusion among potential customers, it can sue for trademark infringement, even if the trademark isnt registered.†Based on the discussion abo ve, Reed would not have any right to use the name Reedbok for his line of shoes.On the payment of profits to Raybok however, Reedbok has a cause to defend itself against the payment because it is not counterfeiting the shoes of Raybok with that same name but then producing the shoes under different name. This is in light of the law, which states that â€Å"a company must not use a trade name, trade mark and/or geographic indication belonging to another entity as its company name† (In the House Lawyer, 2010). Of course, the name Reedbok is not the same as Raybok. Consumer vigilance has never been the duty or responsibility of owners of companies or copyright holders of names of products. Consumers are liable for their own choices. For this reason if any consumer out of ignorance or carelessness refuses to critically examine the shoes and buys the shoes thinking they are Raybok instead of Reedbok, Reed would not be the one at fault here and so would not be held accountable to p ay any earnings to Raybok. REFERENCE LISTAll Experts, (2011). Trademarks/Trademark available. Accessed June 27, 2011 from http://en.allexperts.com/q/Trademarks-2140/2010/2/Trademark-available.htmIn the House Lawyer, (2010). Preventing trade name infringement in Vietnam. inhouselawyer.co.uk/index.php/intellectual-property/8175-preventing-trade-name-infringement-in-vietnamJassin L.J (2011). Is it Possible to Trademark a Name of a Company? Accessed June 27, 2011 from ehow.com/info_8047314_possible-trademark-name-company.html

d Only Known

If I’d Only Known As the song â€Å"Somewhere Over the Rainbow† echoed through my head, I walked with my brother one last time. The only thing was, he was in the casket in front and my parents and I had to follow tearfully behind. As I looked around, I saw through tear-stained eyes all the hundred of lives my brother had touched. He filled our days with happiness and laughter and left behind so many wonderful stories and memories that will be cherished in my heart forever. At the young ages of just 19 years old, my brother Todd Harris and his friend Ryan Stephenson, had their dreams and aspirations vanish before them on an empty highway just a half an hour away from their home. At the age of 17, my life changed forever as I began to see life through different eyes. As I walked down that aisle, memories flooded my mind on how this awful day arrived. It was September 12th and my brother and I were just sitting in his room talking about our plans for our weekend. We were always pretty close, but after our parents got a divorce, we became incredibly close. He became not just my brother, but my best friend. We did everything together. The problem was our idea of fun was not the safest way of fun. Our lifestyle consisted of parties, drugs, and alcohol. We saw nothing wrong with it. Everyone was doing it and we could handle it, especially my big brother. So there we were, sitting at home making our regular plans to Mizzou. I normally would just drive with him, but for some reason I wanted to drive my own car. We decided to meet up after the game. However, once again the plans changed. I was tired and although I knew he would pay for my drinks, I decided to just go back to my friend’s house. If I’d only known that would have been the last night I would have seen my brother’s smiling face. If I would have only known that would have been the last time I would have been able to wrap my arms around him and say I... 'd Only Known Free Essays on If I\'d Only Known If I’d Only Known As the song â€Å"Somewhere Over the Rainbow† echoed through my head, I walked with my brother one last time. The only thing was, he was in the casket in front and my parents and I had to follow tearfully behind. As I looked around, I saw through tear-stained eyes all the hundred of lives my brother had touched. He filled our days with happiness and laughter and left behind so many wonderful stories and memories that will be cherished in my heart forever. At the young ages of just 19 years old, my brother Todd Harris and his friend Ryan Stephenson, had their dreams and aspirations vanish before them on an empty highway just a half an hour away from their home. At the age of 17, my life changed forever as I began to see life through different eyes. As I walked down that aisle, memories flooded my mind on how this awful day arrived. It was September 12th and my brother and I were just sitting in his room talking about our plans for our weekend. We were always pretty close, but after our parents got a divorce, we became incredibly close. He became not just my brother, but my best friend. We did everything together. The problem was our idea of fun was not the safest way of fun. Our lifestyle consisted of parties, drugs, and alcohol. We saw nothing wrong with it. Everyone was doing it and we could handle it, especially my big brother. So there we were, sitting at home making our regular plans to Mizzou. I normally would just drive with him, but for some reason I wanted to drive my own car. We decided to meet up after the game. However, once again the plans changed. I was tired and although I knew he would pay for my drinks, I decided to just go back to my friend’s house. If I’d only known that would have been the last night I would have seen my brother’s smiling face. If I would have only known that would have been the last time I would have been able to wrap my arms around him and say I...

Write Super-Fast

Write Super-Fast Write Super-Fast Write Super-Fast By Michael Writing fast and editing later is a good practice. For many people, writing super-fast is an even better practice. Heres why: If you write fast, you dont have time to criticize your writing. And the more energy you spend criticizing your writing, the less energy you will have for writing. Many amateur writers can work up a writers block for themselves with just a few sentences of self-criticism. Dont get started on that road. When you write super-fast, your writing can approach the speed of your thought. Im serious. Even non-geniuses can think much faster than they can type, once they get going. Let yourself fly. Dont slow down your brain. Letting the words flow will actually spur new thoughts, and it will at least prevent you from losing thoughts because you couldnt get them down fast enough. Until you finish writing, you shouldnt edit. Everything that anybody writes is garbage until its edited. Editing is awfully inefficient when you try to edit every word as you type it. For the first draft, try to write like the wind. Wait to edit until you start the second draft, after the sweat has dried. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Writing Basics category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Writing a Reference Letter (With Examples)45 Synonyms for â€Å"Old† and â€Å"Old-Fashioned†30 Nautical Expressions

Mergers and Acquisitions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Mergers and Acquisitions - Essay Example The barriers in establishing business units in overseas countries were diluted as a result of globalization. Moreover, it is possible for larger firms to select their own strategies or mode of entry like merger, acquisition, or joint venture to enter in to the overseas market. Competition is becoming tough in every area of business and it is difficult for even big organizations to survive in the market if they fail to implement suitable business strategies to counter the competition. It is now easy for organizations to do business in any country they want because of globalization. Outsourcing and offshoring are some of the major business strategies adopted by organizations in order to exploit the overseas market. On the other hand, some organizations use merger and acquisition (M & A) based business strategies to spread their wings in to overseas countries. Gaughan (2007) explained M & A as a process in which two corporations combined together to form a single one. Moreover, only one corporation survives after the M & A while the merged corporation goes out of existence after the merger process (Gaughan, 2007, p.12). Domestic mergers and acquisitions were popular prior to globalization; however, cross border mergers were not accepted. ... This means cross border mergers have become a reality nowadays. The following chart provides an idea of the size of global merger deals between 2005 and 2007. (Mergers and acquisitions, 2008) â€Å"Cross border mergers and acquisitions (M&As) are a main vehicle for foreign direct Investment. Yet despite its quantitative importance, the determinants of cross-border M&As are still not well-understood† (Brakman et al, 2008, p.1). The benefits of cross border alliances or mergers are not limited to the companies alone. Cross border mergers and acquisitions may add more value to the companies and its stakeholders. This paper analyses the cross border merger and acquisition process and the sources of value added to the stakeholders as a result of this business strategy. Since the theories and principles with respect to cross border mergers are extensive, this paper will not discuss anything about negotiation, finance, alternatives etc. | Cross border merger and acquisition Leading f inancial consultancy Thomson Financial has said that 2006 was a mega-merger year for India: 1,164 deals valued at a total of $35.6 billion as against 1,011 deals worth $21.6 billion in 2005. After the Tata-Corus and Vodafone-Hutch mega-deals, conservative estimates by Indian analysts have pegged mergers and acquisitions (M&As), including outbound and inbound deals involving Indian firms, to reach $100 billion in 2007 (Shankar & Reddy, n. d, p.457) Companies from emerging economies like Brazil, India, Russia and China are currently engaged in acquiring some of the most prestigious companies in America, Europe and Africa (see appendix for some of the statistics of FDI inflows to the host countries as a result of cross border M& A). Recently India’s automobile manufacturer TATA acquired

Tests for Business Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Tests for Business Law - Essay Example By contracting with CI, a medical provider gains access to the network in exchange for accepting payments at lower than market rates. Doctors, Inc., contracts with CI but, when few patients are forthcoming, files a suit to recover the difference between the contract and market rates. The court will most likely rule that the contract is Quality Steel Corporation files a suit against Rite Tool Company, claiming that the consideration for their contract is inadequate. The court will most likely not examine the adequacy of the consideration if Baked Goods Company agrees to supply Comida Caf with all the corn chips that it requires for a year. A sudden demand for ethanol results in a shortage of corn, and the price rises sharply. Baked Goods asks Comida to pay a higher price for the chips. This request is In May, Rolf agrees to work for Soda Sales Company at $800 per week for a year beginning June 1. The following January, Tropical Beverages, Inc., offers Rolf the same work at $900 per week. Rolf tells Soda about the offer. Soda offers to enter into a new contract with Rolf at $875 per week. If Rolf agrees, is the new Soda contract enforceable Why or why not Hillside Homes, Inc., and Ideal Builders, Inc., enter into a construction contract that includes six pages of detailed calculations.

Five Secrets of Charismatic Leader Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Five Secrets of Charismatic Leader - Assignment Example It enables people to go beyond the confines of mediocrity and tread into the realm of existence. In the process, it induces people to define their desires and to pursue them with passion. Ultimately, leadership transforms potential into reality. Charisma has been identified as one of the characteristics of transformational leaders. Tasler indicated that â€Å"displaying charismatic leadership is one of the most effective ways to boost everything from motivation and creativity to productivity and plain old satisfaction† (Tasler, 2010, par. 2). In this regard, leaders who do not seem to possess the charismatic qualities have renewed hope to develop the rudiments for honing this potential. Through a research conducted by Francesca Gino from Harvard Business School and David Hofmann of the University of North Carolina, the secrets of unraveling the charismatic powers in leaders are revealed. As presented by Tasler, there are specifically five steps to assist leaders in developing a more charismatic personae, to wit: (1) through a definition of the main character; (2) identifying the ultimate goal or the happy ending; (3) pinpointing the weakness of the current situation; (4) identifying the alternative courses of action; and (5) encourage outpouring of emotions. Simply put, Tasler’s advice is focused on: â€Å"charisma can be conveyed simply by using emotional words. Incorporate such words as nervous, afraid, and frustrated to heat up your descriptions of the not-so-happy beginning, and then use words like excited, confident, proud, and peaceful to make the happy ending feel happier. The goal is to create a stark contrast between the unpleasant feeling of the place they are currently in and the wonderful place they can go to if they do what you ask† (Tasler, 2010, par. 12).

Tom Peters on Uncertainty Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Tom Peters on Uncertainty - Essay Example There is a great challenge to management to meet the changing landscape and capitalize on the new economies. Tom Peters was telling us that there is a brave new world of business and our management structures and organizations must be equipped to meet the uncertainty of the 21st century. The post bureaucratic era has introduced many new norms for institutions and business. While the staid structures of clearly defined hierarchy may have served history well, they can not keep pace with the speed of change in today's world. By understanding that we are faced with continual uncertainty, organizations can restructure to take advantage of that change. Networking and team concept approaches can offer the ability of an organization to react and act in the face of sudden change. While many opportunities will exist, it is the organizational structure most adept at handling change that will define the success from the failure. The globalization of capitalism has also presented new markets and manufacturing bases. Yet, here again the organization is faced with uncertainty. The firm may find itself embroiled in international politics or environmental issues that may threaten to sink their investment. The venture must be structured in such a fashion that they can withstand the assault of the unknown.

Financial Appraisal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Financial Appraisal - Essay Example These three financial aspects must be that, in order to run or execute them, it necessitates substantial inputs in terms of costs and they must entail a wide range of benefits upon their execution (Kirkpatrick & Weiss 2006). As such, the costs and the subsequent benefits must be subjugated in terms of money or they should be such that, their worth can be estimated considering the monetary terms. Further, it can be said as a systematic process by which alternative utilization of wide variety of resources are examined with a great focus on assessment of factors, which are likely to influence a decision (Gupta 2011). They include; benefits, affordability, goals, risks, costs, funding, needs and options among others. In some cases, it is used to mean the same thing as economic appraisal. It entails methodologies, which are put in place in an effort to assist in establishing and defining problems and thereby finding ways to solve them. As such, these solutions should be those that aim at offering the best value for money (Carroll 2006). This is ideal when it comes to matters concerning public expenditure. In this context, it is mostly used as a catalyst for planning as well as public investment approval relating to the three notions of financial aspects. This paper aims at establishing a good financial appraisal that best gives a good value for money taking into account, projects, policies as well as programs (Lock 2007). Financial appraisal tools and methodologies A good financial appraisal is the one that incorporates the use of various financial appraisals tools. As such, these tools are used in different stages involved in the process of development and by differentiated individuals who have a stake in the business (Lefley & Ryan 2011). For instance, there are situations where, a financial appraisal tools developer or applicant tends to appraise the site using such approach as residual land. In such a case, the costs, value, as well as returns maybe used to esta blish the potential value of the land, which they are ready to give out in exchange with the land but must be subjected to a negotiation. In this example, there are assumptions made and as such, before they are applied, it must be ensured that they are tested. This test is usually done against a framework associated with planning as well as the extant policy (Dayananda 2009). The developer, in most cases, is likely to have come up with appraisal tools that are more of an in-house nature. This is important as the in-house appraisal tools, aided by commercial accounting software, they do reflect the processes related to accounting and of which are internal (Nagarajan 2004). Moreover, there exist other financial appraisal models used in the public sector. These models are exclusively designed to suit a particular use usually in the process of planning. As such, they are used primarily in situations in which the impact of finance involving the affordable housing aimed at assessing the c ontribution of grant as well as additionality, if any, that affordable housing may achieve, are to be considered (Tosh & Rayburn 2003). Both the Affordable Housing Development Control Toolkit as well as Development appraisal tools are spreadsheet based financial appraisal models and as such, they are effective if utilized to see these functions through. Again, the HCA is also efficient as it produces an appraisal model commonly known as Area Wide Viability. This kind of an appraisal model has the capability to test the viability of alternative sites that differ in terms of their characteristics (Morden 2007). There are other projects that involve expenditure considering the public sector. Considering these projects and expenditures, there is a great deal of likelihood that there will be

Find contemporary problem about ( Personality, Lifestyles and Self ) Literature review

Find contemporary problem about ( Personality, Lifestyles and Self ) - Literature review Example This implies that a consumers self concept is critical in developing a brand’s personality, where the brand personality is matched to the self. Research in consumer behaviour have shown that brand personality is a key tool in consumer expression and instrumental in enabling consumers express their ideal or actual self, or in expressing certain specific aspects of the self (Swaminathan, Stilley, & Ahluwalia, 2009:2). One of the key notable problems in marketing is whether the brand personality should be matched to the self that consumers aspire to be (ideal self) or to the self that they are (actual self) (Malà ¤r, Krohmer, Hoyer, & Nyffenegger, 2011:35). This paper evaluates this issue to understand which of the self aligns well with brand personality and what this implies to marketers. Brand personality is defined as â€Å"a set of human characteristics associated with a brand† (Mahle & Supphellen, 2011:96). It is a critical emotional part of a brand image and therefore is highly involving in determining how attached consumer’s become to such brands. (Sung and Kim, 2010:645). It also often appeals to consumers who wish to enhance, affirm or express their sense of self or their personalities using the brand personality of the products they use (Park & Roedder, 2010). On the other hand, self concept is defined as a â€Å"multidimensional construct† in how individuals view themselves (Swaminathan, Stilley, & Ahluwalia, 2009; Khare & Handa, 2009: 64). Self concept is based on both group identity where people purchase certain goods in order to identify with a given group and a unique individual level self identity and expression based on individual autonomy. However in independent individualistic cultures such as western cultures, self concept is mainly associated with personal identity strongly then with group identity (Swaminathan, Page and Gurhan-Canli, 2007:249). Indeed, Fuornier

Financial Appraisal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Financial Appraisal - Essay Example These three financial aspects must be that, in order to run or execute them, it necessitates substantial inputs in terms of costs and they must entail a wide range of benefits upon their execution (Kirkpatrick & Weiss 2006). As such, the costs and the subsequent benefits must be subjugated in terms of money or they should be such that, their worth can be estimated considering the monetary terms. Further, it can be said as a systematic process by which alternative utilization of wide variety of resources are examined with a great focus on assessment of factors, which are likely to influence a decision (Gupta 2011). They include; benefits, affordability, goals, risks, costs, funding, needs and options among others. In some cases, it is used to mean the same thing as economic appraisal. It entails methodologies, which are put in place in an effort to assist in establishing and defining problems and thereby finding ways to solve them. As such, these solutions should be those that aim at offering the best value for money (Carroll 2006). This is ideal when it comes to matters concerning public expenditure. In this context, it is mostly used as a catalyst for planning as well as public investment approval relating to the three notions of financial aspects. This paper aims at establishing a good financial appraisal that best gives a good value for money taking into account, projects, policies as well as programs (Lock 2007). Financial appraisal tools and methodologies A good financial appraisal is the one that incorporates the use of various financial appraisals tools. As such, these tools are used in different stages involved in the process of development and by differentiated individuals who have a stake in the business (Lefley & Ryan 2011). For instance, there are situations where, a financial appraisal tools developer or applicant tends to appraise the site using such approach as residual land. In such a case, the costs, value, as well as returns maybe used to esta blish the potential value of the land, which they are ready to give out in exchange with the land but must be subjected to a negotiation. In this example, there are assumptions made and as such, before they are applied, it must be ensured that they are tested. This test is usually done against a framework associated with planning as well as the extant policy (Dayananda 2009). The developer, in most cases, is likely to have come up with appraisal tools that are more of an in-house nature. This is important as the in-house appraisal tools, aided by commercial accounting software, they do reflect the processes related to accounting and of which are internal (Nagarajan 2004). Moreover, there exist other financial appraisal models used in the public sector. These models are exclusively designed to suit a particular use usually in the process of planning. As such, they are used primarily in situations in which the impact of finance involving the affordable housing aimed at assessing the c ontribution of grant as well as additionality, if any, that affordable housing may achieve, are to be considered (Tosh & Rayburn 2003). Both the Affordable Housing Development Control Toolkit as well as Development appraisal tools are spreadsheet based financial appraisal models and as such, they are effective if utilized to see these functions through. Again, the HCA is also efficient as it produces an appraisal model commonly known as Area Wide Viability. This kind of an appraisal model has the capability to test the viability of alternative sites that differ in terms of their characteristics (Morden 2007). There are other projects that involve expenditure considering the public sector. Considering these projects and expenditures, there is a great deal of likelihood that there will be

The Crucible within the play Essay Example for Free

The Crucible within the play Essay What is The Crucible within the play, and how does it bring about change or reveal the individuals true character? A crucible is a cup-shaped piece of laboratory equipment used to raise metals to very high temperatures, and extract impurities. Therefore, I think that the court is the crucible within the play. The Crucible is a play written by Arthur Miller based on the events which actually happened in 1692, which led to the Salem witch trials, a series of hearings before the court, which prosecuted over 150, on the grounds that they were practicing witchcraft. These events occurred in Massachusetts, between February 1692 and May 1693. He likened the events in his play to the situation with the House Un-American Activities Committee. Miller wrote the play to warn people to plead for freedom. Later, Miller himself was called upon to appear before the McCarthy Committee and was questioned about his activities with the American communist party. Arthur Miller was an American playwright, who lived from October 1915 till February 2005. He was an important figure in American literature for over 60 years, and wrote many plays, including very famous plays, such as The Crucible, A View from the Bridge, All My Sons, and Death of a Salesman, which are still studied and performed all over the world. He was born to Jewish-American parents in Manhattan, in New York. His father owned a womans clothes manufacturing business, which failed in the Wall Street Crash of 1929. After the business failed, his family moved to Brooklyn. Because of the effects of the Wall Street Crash on his family, Miller had little money for college after graduating in Abraham Lincoln High School. In order to gain a place at the University of Michigan, Miller had to work in a number of low status jobs to pay for his tuition. In order to fully understand The Crucible, we must first understand some of the plays background and history. The term Witch-hunt was first used to describe the searching out and persecution of a religious minority, or a political group with ideas different to the majority of the population. After World War Two, US relations with the Soviet Union deteriorated, and there followed a period known as the cold war. A large amount of people feared Russia, and believed that they intended to take over the world. This is what started the fear of Communism in the US. We must also understand what the Puritan societies in Salem were like. Salem was originally founded by Pilgrim Fathers, who had left their own countries in order to practice their religion in peace. The Puritans had very strict moral codes, and this is probably what caused the girls to rebel, and experiment in the forest.

Analysis of the Organisation and Leadership of Unilever

Analysis of the Organisation and Leadership of Unilever 1- Introduction This report offers an analysis of the current organisational structure and management approach of the senior management team at Unilever, a multi-national organisation that produces and distributes many well-known consumer products. Recent years have seen the organisation undergo massive transformation, and they have reduced their workforce by some 41% over the last ten years (Unilever, 2010). They are dual-listed in the Netherlands and the UK, but operate as a single-entity with the same board and senior team. This structure offers them flexibility and adaptability across the globe, and also efficiency in production and distribution. It will draw on the theories of eminent scholars such as Taylor (1999) who proposed the theories of increased organisational efficiency by utilising an appropriate management structure, and also highlight how the internal structure of the organisation is influenced by external environment and organisational structure. This report will consider some of t he recent changes and challenges, which have faced Unilever, and provide and analysis of the likely future challenges facing the organisation. 2- Organisational History Unilever is one of the largest businesses in the world, with an annual turnover of nearly  £40 billion and in excess of 179,000 employees globally (Unilever, 2010). It was formed in 1930 as the amalgamation of the UK soap company Lever Brothers, and the Dutch margarine company Margarine Unie. The main driver for the merger was collaboration, as both companies relied heavily on palm oil as a major ingredient for their products and by sharing resources they were able to import and distribute to their factories far more cost effectively (Unilever, 2010). Indeed, palm oil remains a major ingredient for many products toady, and their continued commitment to sustainability and efficient distribution is one of Unilevers core corporate strategies (Dhillion, 2007). The growth of Unilever has been characterised by mergers and strategic acquisitions, not all of which have been friendly (Polsson, 2008), and their brand portfolio exceeds 400 and includes a wide range of consumer goods, ranging from foods and beverages to personal care products and cleaning products. They are listed on both the UK FTSE 100 and the Dutch equivalent the AXE, and they have 13 brands which generate revenue of over à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1 billion per year. The portfolio includes such well-known brand names as Walls, Ben and Jerrys, Dove, Lipton and Flora, and as can be seen from the few names mentioned, they are both diverse and equally powerful brands and market niches. They are also the largest ice-cream manufacturer in the world, controlling some 73% of the worlds ice cream production and generating revenue of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬5 billion per year alone from ice cream sales in Europe. Unilever have been able to make sales particularly profitable and efficient through centralisat ion of their brand under the heart logo, meaning that they were able to manufacture and distribute under the same brand across Europe with minimum customisation for local regions (Unilever, 2010). Unilever has also built strong links with its subsidiary businesses around the world for its teas and coffees, as much of the raw material required for food stuffs is sourced from African and Latin American countries, such as cocoa, vanilla, palm oil and coffee beans. To reach the size and level of diversity that they now control, Unilever have sought to acquire a further brand or manufacturing interest at the rate of approximately one per year for the last ten years. Such significant activity in terms of corporate diversity and consolidation makes for an interesting topic of study. (Full timeline of activities available in appendix 1). 3- Organisational Structure Considering the size and scope of the organisation it is understandable that they must operate within a defined framework, and as noted by Cummings and Worley (2005:136-138) the sheer size of the company can expose them to the risk of paralysis and stagnation as they are too large to respond flexibly to external challenges. Therefore Unilever have explicitly set out to create a management structure, which is capable of making faster decisions and responding more flexibly to external stimulus. Accordingly Unilever has created a four-tier hierarchical structure, which helps to funnel information into the business, and allows the senior team to make appropriate decisions based on available data (Unilever, 2010b). The structure of the executive team is set out in the diagram below:- Figure 1:- Corporate Structure of Unilever, adapted from Unilever (2010b) According to Unilever, they believe that this structure gives them suitable balance between corporate governance and organisational flexibility. Each level within the hierarchy serves a different function allowing the other levels of the organisation to concentrate on their core roles. Therefore the two executive directors; Paul Polman (Chief Executive Officer) and Jean-Marc Huà «t (Chief Financial Officer) serve as figureheads for the company. Their leadership styles and approaches will be discussed in more depth below. The ten non-executive directors serve as the independent element in Unilevers governance (Unilever, 2010a) and are drawn from a wide range of backgrounds all having huge experience and expertise in their respective areas. They are both internal and external to the organisation to help provide check and balance in their operational views and it is interesting to note that the board is very rare in having such a relatively high proportion of female NEDs at 30% (Black, 2003:236-238). The Unilever Executive (UEx) is responsible for managing profit and loss, and delivering growth across our regions, categories and functions (Unilever, 2010a). It comprises ten operational and executive directors all of whom have exceptional qualifications and experience in the fields of science, technology and business. Unilever has also taken care to ensure that the full cross-section of their multi-disciplinary functions and multi-national breadth are represented on the board, with several nationalities being represented. Finally, the three senior corporate officers are responsible for ensuring that the board of Unilever (both executive and non-executive) have all the necessary information to make prudent and timely corporate decisions on both an operational and strategic basis. The senior corporate officers are tasked with ensuring that the structure and framework of Unilever is returning suitable management information on which to base critical decisions (Unilever, 2010a). 4- Organisational Culture Organisational Culture has been defined as the specific collection of values and norms that are shared by people and groups in an organization and that control the way they interact with each other and with stakeholders outside the organization, (Hill and Jones, 2001:27). This definition also helps us to understand the values of the organisation and how they seek to lead and develop their business. Organisational culture is complex, and can be influenced by a huge variety of factors as noted by Hofstede (1980) who identified the influenced and effects of multi-cultural workforces within multi-national environments. He proposed a theory of cultural dimensions which he used to help explain how multi-cultural influences act upon an organisation with regard to strategic application as discussed by De Wit and Meyer; Hofstedes (1993) theory of cultural dimensions implies that although not all the individuals within a countrys population will have exactly the same characteristics, the cultural dimensions will colour the institutional and administrative arrangements that are made within the country, and will set the norms for behaviour. Hofstede, G. (1993) Cultural constraints in management theories, in De Wit, B. and Meyer, R. (2004) Strategy Process, Content, Context, 3rd Edition, Thomson, London pp206. This is strongly evidenced at Unilever where the culture of the organisation is derived from its own multi-national background. This has influenced the process of strategic decision making at Unilever under the systemic approach advocated by Whittington in his work What is strategy and does it matter? (2000). Whittington proposed that organisations in the same circumstances as Unilever would do well to adopt what he described as a systemic approach. In this model the organisation should seek to create a hybrid of processual or delineated strategy on the basis of organisational objective, but that the approach should be tailored or tempered by a respect for cultural differences. Whittington observed that organisational culture is governed by the social structures created by management level, social class and interest groups, and that trying to cut across these groups in certain localised areas was likely to create excessive tension and achieve very little (Whittington, 2000:185-189). It is therefore interesting to observe the influence and effect of Paul Polman as the first external candidate to take the role the Chief Executive Officer. Paul is a Dutch national and has held the role since October 2008. His background and experience in the commercial goods and manufacturing sectors make him an ideal candidate for the role, as he is both financially astute and commercially aware. From the analysis of the company and its operating ethos and mission it can also be implied that his management style is European-influenced and therefore likely to be reflective of an inclusive culture and style in that it is both democratic and laissez-faire (Morgeson, 2005:497-508). Alternatively under the Tannenbaum and Schmidt continuum (1957) it can be suggested that Paul Polman allows freedom of his subordinates to pursue suitable corporate strategies on the basis of their capability and the application of democratic decision-making. Paul Polman succeeded Patrick Cescau as the Chief Executive Officer of Unilever. Patrick Cescau was the former CEO of Unilever and the first group CEO for the company. He is a French national with numerous accreditations to his name and an extremely successful history at Unilever. As reported in the Telegraph (2008), Unilever searched long and hard for a suitable successor to the position and eventually felt that Paul Polman would be a suitable candidate given his own background, capabilities and skills. This was a departure for the Anglo-Dutch company as they had never previously taken an external candidate for the position, preferring to recruit internally. Although Patrick Cescau formally stepped down from his role following his 60th birthday (the main reason for him to leave the post), he has continued to play an active role in corporate life and now serves as a non-executive director to another large multi-national firm. Patrick Cescau was known across the world for his work in regard to sustainability and business growth, and he has proved a hard act to follow (Insead, 2010). 5- Specific Issues It is useful to compare and contrast specific issues at Unilever and the various approaches which the board of directors have taken when addressing these situations, particularly with regard to the work of Patrick Cescau and his approach to corporate sustainability and social responsibility. Indeed he is quoted as having said that There is no dichotomy between doing business well and doing good; and, in fact, the two go hand in hand. (Insead, 2010). Thus, this element will consider some of the current issues facing Unilever and how they will seek to address them. 5.1- Approaches to Corporate Social Responsibility As noted on the corporate website (Unilever, 2010c), Unilever have a strong commitment corporate social responsibility and sustainability and they have adopted a specific and targeted set of measures and key performance indicators to benchmark their own sustainability performance. It is recognised by scholars such as Atkinson et al (2007:66-68) that there is currently no uniform approach to sustainability or any codified measures of best operational practice. This is despite increasingly stringent legislation which seeks to set out minimum performance standards and has been applied on very few occasions save for flagrant breaches which have resulted in catastrophic consequences (Constanza et al, 2007:203-210). Unilever state that their approaches to Corporate Social Responsibility incorporate business benefits as well as ethical principles (Unilever, 2010c). By this they mean that they have continued the work started by Patrick Cescau seeking to align business activity and ethical ac tivity. They have chosen to apply sustainable principles to as many areas of possible in their business on the simple premise that sustainability makes good business sense. Therefore they have engaged some of the most innovative principles in research and development, agriculture, packaging and manufacturing as they believe that sustainability helps [them] win (Unilever, 2010c). The Unilever website offers several examples of successful case studies where sustainability has proved to be of great business benefit amongst both internal and external stakeholders, and the board of Unilever also recognise that this can only be achieve by impeccable business performance and adherence to best principles in their own right. 5.2- Reputation Management and Diversity Contrastingly it is also useful to consider some of the more controversial activities, which have been undertaken by Unilever in their recent history. Unilever have been accused of causing deforestation by campaigners such as Greenpeace because of the use of palm oil, a major ingredient in many products. In consequence Unilever have committed to sourcing all of their palm oil requirements sustainably by 2015 (Unilever, 2010d). This principle has also been applied with regard to their requirements for tea leaves for their Lipton and PG Tips brands (Unilever, 2010c). Unilever recognise that because of their level of consumption of these raw materials and their need to invest in sustainable practices they will need to work closely with bodies such as the Rainforest Alliance to form synergies, which are beneficial to all stakeholders. However Unilever have a strong commitment to positive diversity as evidenced by their localised products and marketing campaigns, which are specifically aimed to meet the needs of consumers at a localised level. This includes specific beauty products for various nations in response to consumer demand. Examples of such positive diversity can be found in Indian advertising for skin creams (Telegraph, 2007). Although there was some adverse reaction to the advertisement it is also recognised that the product met a considerable demand in India and there was also some evident confusion at a localised level as to why the product might not be required. When compared to the Dove brand real beauty campaign which Unilever have managed since 2007 (Dove, 2010) it can be seen that there is a strong demand for localised product management and positive diversity, which Unilever have responded to. This has helped their own reputational and brand management and has enabled them to react rapidly to con sumer demand, which has served to strengthen their corporate and market position. 6- Management and Leadership Approaches at Unilever Netherlands There are several theories, which can be used to help understand the relationship between managers and employees within an organisation. This element of the report will consider three of the main theories put forward by leading academics in the subject, via Taylor (1999) Maslow (1992) and Fayol (1999). Each of these theories addresses a different aspect of the employee management relationship as will be discussed. 6.1- Taylor and Scientific Management Taylor (1999 cited in Matteson and Ivancevich), identified that to achieve maximum efficiency and effectiveness within an organisation it is necessary to synthesize workflows (1999:12-15) to ensure that there is alignment between resource availability and organisational requirements. Taylor suggested that by measuring and monitoring these objectives and setting out clear processes and procedures for employees to follow, it is possible to significantly increase labour productivity and effectiveness. The cornerstone of Taylors theory was centred on adhering to best practice processes to minimise waste and maximise productivity. Taylors theories were developed whilst observing car production plants, and there are close analogies with regard to the production flows of manufacturing in the Unilever plants. As each of the manufacturing plants owned and operated by Unilever produces products and foodstuff, which their consumers will either ingest or use for personal care, the manufacturing must be of the highest standards and quality, with rigorous safety and quality checks at every stage of the process. Unilever have therefore developed and implemented a robust series of controls, which enables them to manage and monitor every part of the production process, and also standardise it across their estate. Such is the level of control exerted by Unilever, that in theory it should be possible to take an employee from a UK manufacturing site and exchange them for an employee from a Dutch manufacturing site, and they should each be capable of performing the necessary roles and functions (Unilever, 2010). Critics of Ta ylors approach such as Daft et al (2010:26), argue that the forced level of direction engendered by the Taylorist approach de-skills and de-motivates employees who effectively become machines who are dehumanised. This is a particularly so on production line, as there is a requirement for absolute conformity as opposed to creativity and individualism. It is a perpetual challenge for Unilever to maintain the interest and enthusiasm of employees who perform repetitive jobs such as those that will be required for a significant proportion of the Unilever workforce. This is something, which was acknowledged and addressed by Maslow (1999, cited in Strage), who noted that employees require more than simple fiscal reward to remain motivated. This has been noted and observed by the management team at Unilever, and when their management approach and corporate culture is applied to the Tannenbaum and Schmidt continuum, as cited in Matteson and Ivancevich, (1999), it can be seen that although so me level of authority must be applied to ensure consistency of process, many of the Unilever employees have a far greater level of freedom and creativity to offer innovative suggestions for product and process improvement. 6.2- Maslow and the Hierarchy of Needs In contrast to Taylor, the Maslow school of thought discusses tools and techniques to help managers to motivate and empower employees to perform to the best of their ability. Maslow (1999, cited in Strage) discusses the hierarchy of needs model, whereby he identified that it was not simply money that motivated employees to work, but many other factors contributed to the desire of employees to perform to the best of their ability. The diagram below outlines what Maslow has identified, in that as each level of need is satisfied, the individual moves up the pyramid to satisfy the next need in the ranking. Figure 1: Maslows Hierarchy of Needs (1999). As Maslows theory suggests, once the basic needs of financial reward for work have been satisfied sufficient to meet the demands of paying bills, then an employee looks for other motivations to come to work, such as feeling valued by their employer, and having their work and achievements recognised. It would seem given that there have been no recent publicised disputes between employees and leaders at Unilever that employees are satisfied with the both the pay and recognition which they receive from the management team. As Maslow noted, once the basic needs have been satisfied, the need to be accepted and to belong is a powerful human motivator. This is closely linked with reward and recognition for work that has been done well or is particularly innovative. Some theorists such as Hackman and Wageman (2005:269) refer to this as celebrating success. They suggest that if major achievements which have been made possible by the co-operative work of the team are celebrated and recognised, this will go on to motivate and encourage employees to continue to perform. Unilever have recently won awards for innovation and environmental achievement (Unilever, 2010), which they were keen to share with the rest of the business, as the entire firm will benefit from such a positive approach (Morden, 1996; McGovern et al, 2008). 6.3- Fayol A third perspective on matters of management and leadership approach is that put forward by Fayol (1999 cited in Matteson and Ivancevich), who similarly to Taylor subscribed to a scientific theory of management. He proposed a general theory of management, suggesting that managers had six primary functions and fourteen further principles of management. In contrast to Taylor, Fayol proposed a far more interactive approach to management techniques, which suggested that process controls were in fact best designed by those people who performed the work every day (ie, the workforce). Fayol argued that if management interacted closely with the workforce and understood their needs and concerns, they would be far better placed to gather feedback about systems and processes and make the necessary efficiency changes. It would seem from the success and growth of Unilever as a multi-national conglomerate that they have been particularly successful and following these principles and instilling a c ollaborative approach which harnesses the power and knowledge of the workforce and uses it to further the growth and development of the business (Fayol, ibid). Examples of this include working with employees to indentify and implement efficiency savings, and also generating a culture of continuous improvement, which builds a self-perpetuating cycle of success (Judge et al, 2002:770-775). When considering these findings in the light of the Blake and Moulton Leadership grid (1964), it can clearly be seen that the leaders at Unilever are at the inclusive and collaborative point on the scale as termed the sound style (previously known as tem style). At this point they have equal concern for both production and people as they recognise that to deliver consistently excellent products they must have committed and motivated employees. According to Blake and Moulton (ibid), this leadership style relies on managers recognising that employees must feel as if they are a highly valued part of the organisation, a theory that is closely aligned with that of Maslow who observed that those employees who produced the best work felt that they were suitably rewarded for their efforts. Moreover, as increasing numbers of organisations recognise the benefits of adopting a collaborative and co-operative approach to achieving organisational excellence, current management theory would indicat e that the days of dictatorial mangers are on the decline (Den Hartog and Koopman cited in Anderson et al, 2002:166-168). This also seems particularly likely given the increasing legislation to prevent employers from bullying their employees and behaving in an inappropriate manner (Miner, 2009). Application of the Hersey and Blanchards situational theory model (1999, cited in Gabriel et al, 1999) further underlines that the Unilever management style is one of participating and delegating as opposed to telling employees what to do. Unilever is characterised by open channels of communication, and there are points which against the Hersey and Blanchard model the leadership style could be regarded as selling, this is more to do with the differing levels of maturity in various parts of the business, and particularly in those parts which have been recently acquired. It is interesting to set the Hersey and Blanchard model against the backdrop of situational leadership, as it seems that the characteristics of Unilever are a mature and confident group of leaders who are happy to delegate tasks and responsibility, and thus leverage the best from their employees (Den Hartog and Koopman, ibid). Remembering that the board of Unilever has been secure and stable for some time, it is of lit tle surprise that they are able to adopt and react flexibly to change. Moreover, their considerable experience of acquisition allows them to rapidly assimilate and absorb new businesses into the estate, and embraces the culture changes, which must necessarily follow (Simons and Billing, 1995; Spillane, 2004). Despite the size of Unilever, it is remarkable that they are able to adapt so readily to change at both an internal and external level, and across global boundaries. In some ways their sheer size has enabled them to cushion themselves from some of the worst effects of the recession, coupled with the fact that their diverse portfolio requires them to be adaptive and flexible to consumer trends a style which is reflected in both their culture and leadership. 7- Recommendations to Enhance Management Practices As can be seen from the preceding discussions, the senior management team at Unilever have faced some serious internal and external challenges, both at a local level and a global level. Some of these challenges are outside of their control, however in order to ensure that they remain one of the leading conglomerates in the world they must adapt and respond flexibly to both internal and external challenges. This section of the report considers some recommendations to continue to improve employee motivation and engagement by enhancing and improving management practices, and also offer suggestions based on relevant theory as to how the necessary changes can be embedded. 7.1- Recommendations for Strategic Change and Effective Management Practices Although there are few current difficulties with employee relationships, it is apparent that some significant changes still need to be made in order to secure the future of Unilever in the current turbulent economic environment. Whilst they are far from bankruptcy, recent years have seen considerable expenditure and challenge for Unilever, which has centred on the considerable number if divestments and acquisitions in order to strengthen and consolidate their global brand portfolio (Morden, 1996:458-496). The theories of Taylor, Maslow and Fayol all offer suggestions as to how to engage with employees in times of significant change and challenge. Application of the Tannenbaum and Schmidt continuum (cited in Matteson and Ivancevich, 1999) indicates that the collaborative style of leadership has helped Unilever in managing and instilling change, and it is clear that under modern management practices that for them to continue to be successful they must continue to engage and motivate em ployees, especially those who are new to the culture of Unilever and have joined them through acquisition (Hassard and Parker, 1993:43-45). Furthermore, Gergen (1995) concurs with Hassard and Parker (ibid), in those organisations, which operate in a post-modernist world, should take care to adopt appropriate management styles and techniques, or get left behind their competitors in a rapidly changing world. Taking all of these factors into consideration, and with reference to all of the theories which have been discussed and applied, it is apparent that there is a self-perpetuating cycle and culture of success which is supporting the leaders at Unilever to behave in a manner which is highly likely to assist them in developing a robust business which is fit to operate in current times. The collaborative and communicative style of the leaders should be upheld and gently moulded in newer acquisitions to one which is collaborative and co-operative in approach, drawing on the theories of Maslow to help motivate and engage employees in such a way that they provide constructive criticism and feedback on how best to help Unilever develop in the current challenging environment. Whilst it is appreciated that management culture and organisational culture is not something that can be changed overnight, as reliance on technology increases and organisations must become more adaptable to survive, it i s likely that the current culture will be fit to see Unilever through into the future. References Atkinson, G., Dietz, S. Neumayer, E. (2007). Handbook of Sustainable Development. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar. BBC News. 22 May 2010 http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8633455.stm. Retrieved 18th Nov 2010 Blake, R.; Mouton, J. (1964). The Managerial Grid: The Key to Leadership Excellence. Houston: Gulf Publishing Co. Black, Richard J. (2003) Organizational Culture: Creating the Influence Needed for Strategic Success, London UK. Cohan, William D., (2009) House of Cards: A Tale of Hubris and Wretched Excess on Wall Street, [a novel]. New York, Doubleday. Costanza, R., Graumlich, L.J. Steffen, W. (eds), (2007). Sustainability or Collapse? An Integrated History and Future of People on Earth. Cambridge, MA.: MIT Press. Cummings, Thomas G. Worley, Christopher G. (2005), Organization Development and Change, 8th Ed., Thomson South-Western, USA Copenhagen Climate Change (2009) http://www.copenhagenclimatecouncil.com/about-us/councillors.html (retrieved 5th Nov, 2010). Den Hartog, D. N., Koopman, P. L. (2002). Leadership in organizations. In N. Anderson, D. S. Ones, H. K. Sinangil C. Viswesvaran (Eds.), Handbook of industrial, work and organizational psychology, Volume 2: Organizational psychology. (pp.  166-187): Sage Publications, Inc. DfT (2010) Road Freight drops 24% in first quarter of 2010 available online at http://www.aricia.ltd.uk/articles.aspx. (retrieved 5th Nov, 2010). Dhillon, Amrit (2007-07-01). Indias hue and cry over paler skin. The Daily Telegraph (London). http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/07/01/wskin101.xml. Retrieved 9th Nov 2010. Dove (2010) Campaign for Real Beauty available online at http://www.dove.us/#/cfrb/ retrieved 13th Dec 2010 Fayol, H. (1999) Planning in M.T. Matteson and J.M. Ivancevich (eds), Management and Organisational Behaviour Classics. 7th ed., London: Irwin, McGraw-Hill, pp.12-15. Gabriel, Y. Fineman, S. Sims, D. (2000) Organizing and Organisations. 2nd Ed. London, Sage. Gergen, K.J. (1995) The Limits of Pure Critique in H.W. Simons, H.W. and Billig, M. (1995) After Postmodernism: Reconstructing Ideology Critique. London, Sage. Greenpeace (2007) Unilever admits toxic dumping: will clean up but not come clean http://www.greenpeace.org.uk/contentlookup.cfm?CFID=6864301CFTOKEN=96874361ucidparam=20010620124942MenuPoint=G-A.Retrieved 9th Nov 2010 Hackman, J. R., Wageman, R. (2005). A Theory of Team Coaching. Academy of Management Review, 30(2), 269-287 Hill, C and Jones, G (2001) Strategic Management. Houghton Mifflin pp 27 Hofstede, G. (1980) Cultures Consequences: International Differences in Work Related Values, Beverly Hills, CA, Sage Publications Indian Resource Centre (14th May 2003) Monsanto, Unilever use of Child Labour in India http://www.indiaresource.org/issues/agbiotech/2003/monsantounilever.html retrieved 18th Nov 2010 Insead (2010) Top 50 Alumni Who Changed the World available online at http://50.insead.edu/alumni/patrick-cescau retrieved 13th Dec 2010 Maslow, A.H. (1992) A Theory of Human Motivation, Chapter 10 in Henry M. Strage,1992, Milestones in Management: An Essential Reader. Oxford, Blackwell Business. Miner, J. B. (2009). Organizational Behavior: Behavior 1: Essential Theories of Motivation and Leadership. Armonk: M.

Stem Cell Research Essay -- Current Events Argument Research Science E

Stem Cell Research Works Cited Not Included Stem cell research is a highly controversial topic that may hold the key to developing a cure for many cancers and diseases. In 1998, a group of scientists developed a technique to isolate and grow stem cells. The field is extremely new when compared with other fields. A few things need to be discussed before an argument can be made for or against stem cell research, the types of stem cells, the potential uses, and where funding should come from. There are many different types of stem cells and each one has a different role in promoting breakthroughs in the many diseases that can possibly be cured. All stem cells, including the embryonic and adult, have three properties in common: unspecialization, proliferation, and differentiation. Stem cells predilection towards being unspecialized entails it cannot do specialized functions like pump blood through the body or carry molecules of oxygen through the bloodstream. The process of replication, or dividing and renewing, for long periods of time is known as proliferation and normally does not occur in muscle, blood, nerve, or other types of cells. Differentiation occurs when internal signals trigger unspecialized stem cells to give rise to specialized cell. The two fundamental types of stem cells are embryonic and adult stem cells. Although the embryonic and adult stem cells have lots in common, they also have some differences, for example, embryonic stem cells can proliferate for a year or more in the laboratory with out differentiating, but most adult stem cells cannot (NIH Basics 1, 3-4). Embryonic stem cells are derived from four to five-day-old in vitro fertilized eggs, never from eggs fertilized in a women's body, d... ...on pro-life. We took something that was going to be destroyed and isolated cells from it that could improve the lives of people suffering from disease and trauma. I don`t know of any scientist who thinks this was a bad idea or that it should not have been done (Doug Melton Releases New Stem Cell Lines, 2)." The possibilities of curing so many diseases by far out ways the "ethical questions" that are easily fixed. Despite the touchy side of the stem cell controversy, that has poised some difficulties for scientists. Many remarkable discoveries have already been made. Stem cells quite possibly could hold a cure for everything from baldness to a variety of cancers to birth defects (NIH basics 1, 2). The limited amount of federal funding is restraining research though. Research on stem cells raises ethical questions as rapidly as it generates new discoveries.