Cultural Considerations Essay

This paper will examine and assesses the cultural concerns and influences of today’s societies with mixed cultures and the effect on the criminal justices system. The paper will address how the cultural concerns and influences affect justice and security administration and practice. The paper will show some contemporary methods by the police and security used in societies of mixed cultures. The paper will address how these influences and considerations relate to and affect nondiscrimination practices within the criminal justice system. Finally, the paper will address Sir Robert Peel’s nine principles and how they fit into today’s police departments. The military occupation of numerous countries in the Middle East and Europe has brought police practices into question. The local police forces have been trained by the military in which the rules are different. The free people are suffering abuse at the hands of the police in those countries. In those cases where militant law is present and security is more prevalent, the police appear to work more for the current occupying military than for that country’s government or the people. More than 200 cases of torture have either been investigated or court marshaled by the United States in violation of the United Nations anti-torture body in 2006. This increase in torture may be caused by racial, ethnic, and religious differences in the contemporary War on Terrorism (French &Wailes, 2008). The abuse on that scale does not occur within the United States; however, a problem still exists with the assessment of police and security personnel. These practices are scrutinized by the military, governments, security agencies, and local and foreign police. Of course, these practices question discrimination and profiling. Profiling is one of the major concerns here in the United States. Some confusion exits between profiling and racial profiling. A person cannot be profiled by a police officer based on color, sex, religion, or culture. However, a person can be profiled if he or she matches the description of a suspect. The measures currently used to assess officers are objective and may disclose intimate aspects of the person tested. The standard for recognition in the United States is the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) that was established in 1979. Psychological testing is in place, however; standards are not set by CALEA, and each agency conducts their own testing (French & Wailes, 2008). In 1973, the National Advisory Commission on Criminal Justice Standards and Goals recommended that every police agency follow a formal selection process that includes a written test of mental ability or aptitude, an oral interview, a psychological examination, and a background investigation. It was believed that introducing greater screening and standardization to the selection process would result in a more qualified police force. International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) developed several guidelines for pre-employment psychological evaluations. These recommendations address such issues as validation of testing instruments, compliance with legislation, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), using qualified psychologists familiar with the relevant research, and content of the written reports (Cochrane, Tett & Vandercreek, 2008). Compliance with such acts as the ADA indicates the implementation of diversity in the testing process. A few of the most common comprehensive personality tests given to police officers during their psychological testing include the following: Neuroticism, Extraversion, and Openness (NEO) Personality Inventory, Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2(MMPI-2), and Inwald Personality Inventory (IPI). Traits from the NEO Personality Inventory–Revised, which was based on the five-factor model of personality, have also shown to be predictive of police performance. The MMPI-2 and the IPI have been shown to be effective in predicting several job criteria for police officers as well (Cochrane, Tett & Vandercreek, 2008). Today’s American policing and justice system is based on English principles and English common law. One such tradition was limited police authority. This gives way to liberties and freedoms and limits governmental authority. Another tradition was the localized police control as opposed to a national, centralized police force as experienced in many other countries. This turned out to be both an advantage and a detriment. The localization resulted in fragmentation and decentralization of law enforcement. The advantage was acquiring little national control (Walker & Katz, 2011, p. 24). Peel believed that prevention of crime could be accomplished without intruding into the lives of citizens so he developed the nine principles of community policing. His first concept was the basic mission of police was to prevent crime and disorder. The prevention of crime makes the job easier of the police. Police presence is deterrence, therefore prevents crime from occurring. This is the basis for today’s community policing concept. The public must also approve of the actions of the police in the performance of their duties. The people must work voluntarily with the police in observance of the laws to maintain public order (History, 2002). The public must comply voluntarily with the laws and work with the police. Most people do what is morally correct; in turn the police also must do what is lawfully correct. The police are directed by the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights to safeguard every citizen’s right from interference from government. These philosophies are still observed today. If a citizen does not approve of the conduct of the police, a complaint is filed. If the public does not agree with a law, they work to make changes. If the public fails to observe the law, there are consequences, such an arrest or a fine. Another concept concerns the use of physical force to gain compliance. The public is cooperative with the police whereas physical force not need be employed. If compliance is not gained and physical force is required, the force will not be so great as to be considered excessive (History, 2002). The Constitution provides rights to the people and protects them from the police in this area. Laws in most states specifically write out what is considered â€Å"force,† when and how it can be used. Last, the police are specifically trained in the application of force through means of various weapons and hand to hand combat. This force is not to be excessive, not to be used as punishment, or in a punitive manner. The force used is that reasonable force to effect and arrest, to protect oneself or another from death or great bodily harm. The police serve both the public and the law, they shall not show impartiality, but to the law. The officers are also members of the public. Any interest the public has would also be interest to the police (History, 2002). In this case, the officer may come from any background may be either sex or any race. The officer must show fairness to members of other groups and not discriminate against those members or members of his or her own group. The officer shall treat everyone as equally as possible. The police are hired to uphold the law, at the same time serve the public. Peel’s theory indicates, when a conflict arises, the service to the law should outweigh the public service. This concept is contradictory to today’s practices. Policing has become â€Å"customer service†-oriented, where the customer is always right. The officers are members of the public, when they are in an off duty capacity, they are afforded the same rights as any other citizen. However, they should govern themselves as an upstanding citizen because they do represent the law. The final concept indicates the effectiveness of policing is the lack of crime and disorder. This concept is known as preventative policing. In today’s society, the crimes are not occurring where there is a high police presence. So, Peel’s principles are still used to some extent. The demographics have changed since his time. People and crimes have evolved. People’s values have changed, whereas they are tolerant of certain crimes. The attitudes toward police have changed. In a location where there is a strong police presence, fewer crimes occur. This is consistent with Peel’s concept. However, if the demographics of the neighborhood are less desirable, the people of the neighborhood indicate the police are prejudiced and do not want the police in the neighborhood. Thus, more crimes occur in this less protected neighborhood. If fewer police are present, the response time for an officer to an incident is longer because there are fewer officers and more calls. The ratio of officers to calls is higher. In these cases discrimination is blamed for the increased of police presence and the lack of it as well. The affected parties assume they are discriminated against because more police are in their areas, where more crime occurs. However, when the police are not present, they blame the police for the increase in crime because the police are not present. In conclusion, most of Sir Robert Peel’s principles can be applied to the organization of a police department today. In fact, many departments in England still work by his principles. Some need to be altered to accommodate today’s society to be more â€Å"customer† friendly. The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights need to be recognized, as well such as the Due Process Clauses to both the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments if his principles are applied.

Physical and technological resources of a selected organisation Essay

Describe the main physical and technological resources required in the operation of a selected organisation. M1 – explain how the management of human, physical and technological resources can improve the performance of a selected organisation. In this assignment I will describe the main physical and technological resources required in an organisation, and how the management of human, physical and technological resources can improve the performance of Tesco. Physical resources Some of the main physical resources for Tesco are; their premises, machinery, equipment, materials and their stock. I have listed these as the main resources required as they are huge factoring reasons as to why and how Tesco makes such huge amounts of profit. A business can’t carry out its day to day activities without having a system in place which manages physical resources. Physical resources can include; buildings and premises, machinery, materials (and even waste) and equipment. Businesses should manage its premises according to size, the environment and location of the organisation and even according to its customer needs, wants and requirements as it needs premises to operate. The management of the businesses machinery greatly helps increase performance of Tesco as it means they can produce products faster, deliver and receive products faster, and serve customers faster and more efficiently. Lack of equipment or bad management in Tesco could mean production of products and customer service in some aspects of the business running couldn’t be carried out as efficiently or at all. Things classified as equipment could be IT hardware and software that must both be managed extremely carefully. No one unauthorised to do so should be able to access the IT hardware, this can be enforced with physical barriers and surveillance. The software should also be protected with adequate security and firewalls etc. to prevent people from accessing Tesco’s databases of customers and products, which could cause a huge loss of reputation and money if it was accessed by unauthorised  personnel. Technological resources Tesco’s’ main technological resources include their intellectual property, their copyrights/patents, and their experience and skill. Their intellectual property is, put simply, their ideas; things that make them unique. This would include things such as their logo, their ‘Tesco value’ range, and schemes such as the clubcard and the point reward scheme. The management of these resources can greatly improve Tesco’s performance. If the IP is kept up to date and fully modernised this will give them a competitive advantage, as long as the ideas are original and not different versions of competitor’s ideas. The IP of Tesco is what makes them Tesco, and will be how consumers recognise the brand; if this is kept in good light customers will trust the business and feel connected and familiar with it. By recruiting successful and experienced staff into the management, they can guarantee themselves to make the best decisions possible, and of course, the experience of the business as a whole also makes them what they are today. Human resources The management of human resources is crucial for an organisation. The management should ensure their employees are managed correctly and professionally. If employees perform efficiently and effectively then the customer service and therefore profitability of a business will be maximised. A business can manage its human resources through many methods, including; employee motivation/rewarding, training, appraisal and personal development planning. One of the most important aspects of managing HR is employing individuals with the right skills, qualifications and even personality for a particular job or task they will be required to do. In relation to Tesco, from experience working there, they could provide greater training in the products they sell so staff are able to provide a better, more personal feeling customer service. D1 – Evaluate how managing resources and controlling budget costs can improve  the performance of a business. Budgets must be closely monitored (and stuck to) in order to fully achieve to the businesses maximum potential. The processes and internal techniques must be managed and all resources must be effectively used. It is very important for a business such as Tesco to manage their resources and control their costs in order to budget. Managing resources and controlling costs to a budget is very beneficial for Tesco as it involves a lot of different resources and money is always flowing in and out of the business, which, if managed well, will improve the performance of Tesco. Managing physical resources is very important as they are essential for the day to day running of the business. Tescos management should do things such as check their machinery, equipment and premises regularly to make sure that everything is efficiently working and also to help Tesco improve their overall performance. It is also very important that Tesco provides employees with suitable induction and training programmes on how to operate new machinery so they are up to date in the knowledge of use and know how it can be used most effectively. If an employee isn’t familiar with how to use a piece of machinery, the efficiency of the business will be decreased. Tesco has many physical resources that should be effectively managed; such as their entrance and reception (customer services), which should be kept tidy, organised, and any damages (such as the fire damage as a recent example in Newbury) should be fixed as soon as possible. As this would be the first thing a customer would see when entering the store. Other physical resources used by Tesco could be the bakery and cleaning equipment; such as Hoovers, floor cleaners and ovens; all this equipment should be regularly checked as physical resources like these have a high chance of needing replacement, and subsequently, affecting the budget of Tesco. Premises is the most important physical resource of Tesco. If the premises and main equipment used within are managed well, then customers will be satisfied with their shopping experience and feel comfortable to return, increasing the chance of them being long term customers. Human resources are also a big aspect of the running of Tesco. This must be managed  effectively and successfully as the employee performance directly affects the success of Tesco. HR can be managed through training and regular appraisals, which will develop new skills and improve performance in the work place, which will affect the performance of the whole business. If HR is not effectively managed, employees job skills may go ‘off track’ and employees with the wrong skills will be in the wrong job, holding back the productivity of the area they work in, also, affecting the whole business. Keeping all employees motivated is a key aspect when managing employees. If they are not motivated, the working environment will be bad and staff will perform under their potential. Tesco could (and do) motivate their staff through reward systems, where they pay staff for successfully completed tasks, or offer them incentives to succeed. Regular appraisals have been proved to be a successful way of managing HR. this can be carried out whenever seen fit by management, so it is therefore not overly time consuming. It also costs nothing, meaning no monetary cost is placed on the business expenses. This can also relate to costs to budget as appraisals will create a better relationship between the management and the staff and therefore encourage long term employment, cancelling out recruitment costs. It will also, more simply, mean staff are happier to save the companies money, as they have a better view of it. Technological resources are intangible but are managed similarly to physical resources. The management of technological resources will massively improve the performance of a business. Budget management, may sound simple – controlling what the business spends, but it isn’t, nor is it just this. Budgeting can come under all categories of resources, for example; HR. HR can help a business budget by the amount of people they recruit, and keep in a job, for example, if Tesco were over-staffed they may consider laying off some staff. However, this could go either way. If too many members of staff are laid off, then the over all productivity of Tesco could be negatively affected. The staff left could lose respect for the business and therefore motivation to work within it. Less staff, if done in the right was, could be positive however, if those who are laid off have the reasons and regrets fully explained to them then  they may be less bitter about it. They should also ideally be offered some kind of benefit pack for staying employed in the business for as long as they have. If the staff left at the business are also explained what benefits have been given to the employees who have left, they will also be less bitter about the budget cuts, and may remain just as motivated as before, as long as they feel secure in their job.

Ebusiness Case Study

CISCO CASE STUDY ANALYSIS Submitted by: Sanal Jose (1021031) Aparna Panda (1021040) Cefi Johnkutty (1021041) Sonam Sethiya (1021052) Q1. Can other corporations benefit from investing in e-business functionality to the same extent that Cisco has? A1. Yes, other corporations can benefit from investing in e-business functionality to the same extent that Cisco has. The ever-changing and dynamic business environment necessitates use of internet and e-business technologies and therefore, these are going to be the face of business in future.Other corporations can benefit highly by making a calculated investment in this field, just as Cisco has been able to do. But there are certain prerequisites which need to be fulfilled before a company invests in e-business otherwise it might lead to a failure. The most important being the organization should have a web oriented culture. The other requisites are: * The company should have a well integrated system where the internet strategies are in sync with the business strategies. * The company should encourage other businesses to network with them. The top level management should ensure the application of an internet strategy in all areas or fields. * Implementation of internet strategy and processes should be as minimum as possible. * Employees should be encouraged to develop innovative processes with the help of internet to increase productivity. * Proper evaluation of processes should be done after the implementation and improvement scope should be there. Proper evaluation of processes should be done after the implementation and improvement scope should be there. Q2.What can other corporations learn from Cisco’s approach to guiding the e-business transformation? A2. The following are some of the learning’s that other corporations can take from Cisco’s approach to guiding the e-business transformation: * A single enterprise system embracing contract manufacturers, distributors, logistics partners, develop ment engineers, service engineers, sales representatives and customers into a single information system. * Information sharing in real time. * Direct fulfillment of orders whereby most of Cisco’s contract anufacturing partners ship directly to customers. * Automatic testing: to ensure product quality by creating test cells on supplier production lines. * Faster product introduction into the market: reducing the number of steps required during prototype development. * Recognize and forecast the need for a scalable business model to meet the demand of rapid growth. * Using Internet as the foundation of an enterprise and develop business models to achieve high performance and gain competitive advantage.

Case Study - Reading Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

- Reading - Case Study Example The world mostly looks upon the kindergarten teacher to ensure kids have acquired the rightful skills in each stage of development. Failure to achieve this development milestone in learning calls for intervention by the teacher to assist in ensuring the student catches up with the rest (Paulsen, 2010). As a kindergarten teacher in charge of Jeff, aged 5.9 years in grade K, I realized he was a quit a hardworking boy though he was lagging behind in reading skills compared to his peers. Jeff participated in all class activities and mastered most kindergarten skills involving math skills, art and hand-on activities. I identified his strengths as being able to identify and matching lower and upper case letters, understanding the meaning print convey, plus being able to listen and participate in reading sessions. After meeting with the parents and discussing his problem with them, I had to come up with goals and strategies that might be beneficial to being Jeff improve his reading skills ( Paulsen, 2010). The following four goals were the ones I managed to come with to ensure Jeff catches up on his reading skills. Given a book, Jeff will read fluently In reading books and print, Jeff will understand concepts in them After reading books and print, Jeff will engage in talk about them Jeff will pretend to read while using the book’s language. ... This strategy is often advantageous for a student like Jeff who has reading difficulties (Paulsen, 2010). The teacher is always present to ensure the student achieves the given goal. The teacher here will point on certain words and sentences and until Jeff is able to read fluently. This strategy allows for constant repetition until when Jeff improves on his reading skills (Paulsen, 2010). Repeated reading is another strategy that can be employed to ensure Jeff develops his reading skills. In repeated strategy, the student is made to repeat sentences, and certain words in order to achieve fluency. The student is made to repeat the same sentences and words so as to become more familiar with them and remove the reading difficulties he had (Paulsen, 2010). This could be achieved through partner reading. This is when classmates are paired so as to practice reading in pairs. Another way when repeated reading could be initiated is through group reading. Here, a group of students is made to read a given sentence or story collectively (Paulsen, 2010). Another strategy that could be employed to help Jeff improve is peer tutoring. Here, Jeff could be encouraged to practice reading with other students who are good in reading (Paulsen, 2010). Jeff could be placed with his peers and left alone to practice reading. In peer tutoring, a student is able to receive encouragement from his peers and try to achieve the reading level the other students had attained. Jeff on seeing his peers, will most likely feel more encourage since he can interact with them too, and help him build his confidence in reading (Paulsen, 2010). This could be done through cross-age peer tutoring that entails older students tutoring young students. Young students often

Job Fair Brochure and Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Job Fair Brochure and - Research Paper Example People know the company very well and this approach has established credibility and integrity of the company. Over the past few years, especially with the addition of Suptuous Ballroom, the profit margins have improved, sales increased and operating expenses have be reduced from 45% to 40%. Size/Growth – its effect and how management perceives it: Two staff accounts managers work under the company founder Rudy Electrum, each one handling a portfolio of clients. But positive aspect of being of small size is that company is more organic and lenient. The employees know each other very well and trust in each other. Vision/Mission Statement – What it says about the firm, and how management works toward it: There is no vision as such communicated by the management and CEO of the company but still employees have a dream of making Sumptuous Cuisine Cataering, a global catering company. Company has a mission to make the clients believe in them and trust them. Core Competencies: Company has a specific methodology of providing service according to international standards which is transparent, fluid and specialized. Moreover, its employees have high integrity, professionalism and dedication that assists them to mange and exceede client’s expectations. Client preferences, intersts and vision is held primary even if it requires unpopular decisions. Culture: The company has an informal atmosphere and all the employees know each other well. They work like a team and understand each other and work with coordination and collaboration. Due to long lasting relationship of the employees with the company, the employees understand the values and core competencies of the company which help them to perform their responsibilities well. Company has no international affiliation at this moment. The employees are self motivated to help the company to achieve its short term and long term goals. Employs believe the achievement of goals of the company as their reward. Lead ership/Decision Making: Company works under highly centralized decision making but as environment is like a team and family structure, so democracy helps in making some decisions but ultimate power lies with the founding partners Rudy Electrum and Tosca Cabrini. Leadership is very much encouraged in the company but only if you have guts and skills. Talent, skills and proposals of good projects are encouraged. Self motivation is there in the employees but as decision making is centralized, there is very limited empowerment. Recognizing & Rewarding Performance: There are no special rewards and recognitions, but only those of normal course of business. Employees believe themselves to be the incredible parts of the company and are self motivated. Innovation – Management’s perspective & the firm’s goals: Sumptuous Cuisine Catering is planning to open a Sumptuous Ballroom, to enable the company attain its future goals of becoming a â€Å"true one-stop shop† for all-inclusive events by creative competitive edge. Interaction – Marketing, personalization, and customization: Sumptuous Cuisine Catering is a professional organization and it follows the various media strategies for the promotion of its new Sumptuous Ballrom. Company is still new in the locality yet it has developed a strong credibility and integrity. People know the company very well. So marketing happens through word of mouth and transfer of business cards at dinners and in the events. Mostly, we reach our customers through the

Learning English as a Second language Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Learning English as a Second language - Essay Example As a second language, English can be learnt in two basic methods. Firstly, the language can be learnt through acquisition. This method of learning English takes place through interaction with native speakers. The method also involves practicing and imitations whereby the learner tries to copy the native speakers (Blackshire 123). Studying through a classroom setting is the second method through which a person can learn English as a second language. Unfortunately, I had to go through this procedure in order to become an English speaker and I always wish I had taken the first method. This perception concerning learning English through a class room setting always appeared as an inappropriate idea until recently when I held a conversation with one of my former teachers. During the encounter, the teacher informed me that had I opted for the first method, I would be in a far worse condition than I am right now. From the conversation, I realized that studying how to speak a language is equ ally important to learning how to write in the same language. I also realized that through the classroom setting there were measures that I could use to measure my progress unlike in the acquisition method where it is difficult to measure progress. These measures also acted as a source of motivation and challenges through my entire studentship. After discussing the issue of learning English as a second language with my teacher, I realized a change in my perception towards the standard of spoken English (Rokeach 34).

Why does ethnic conflict occur How can it be avoided Essay

Why does ethnic conflict occur How can it be avoided - Essay Example They usually fall under the following categories namely instrumentalist, primordialist and constructivist. Instrumentalist seeks to explain the role of community leaders in ethnic conflict while primordialist relates ethnic conflicts as being caused by a common feeling of kinship which makes a group to think along the same line. On the other hand constructivist tries to explain conflicts as being caused by individuals’ learning process1; however, most of the ethnic conflicts are largely caused by social and economic injustices. Gross violations of human rights have played a great role in fuelling ethnic violence; as a result, this has brought about a lingering question as to whether human rights can be enforced and at the same time end violence. Therefore, human rights have a strong negative effect in the management of ethnic conflicts. This has led to the establishment of the international criminal tribunal for Rwanda as well as the special courts for Sierra Leon as an indica tion of the need of involvement of the international community to address the issues of human rights violations.2 In the 1990s most ethnic conflict were religious base for instance the Palestinian-Israel conflict, Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, the Tamil rebellion in Sri Lanka, the southerners in the Sudan conflict with their northern counterparts just to mention but a few.3 Iran and Sudan are the best example of ethno religious conflicts, and this makes them attract international attention as well as journalistic and diplomatic coverage. The minority tag as in the case of the Kurds in Iran, Iraq and turkey is also a source of ethnic conflict due to their relationship with the state which is governed by the majority ethnic groups. This has exposed them to political and economic discrimination which has resulted in protest and rebellions to air their grievances. Consequently, they have resulted to the use of violent and rebellious organizations and other extra legal means geared towa rds attaining their rightful status in the society. The media is also to blame for ethnic conflicts that have occurred in various countries around the globe. This is owing to the fact that at times it abuses the freedom of speech and peddles propaganda pitting ethnic groups against each other, and a good example is on what happened in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.4 The media was used to fuel ethnic animosity against the minority Tutsi in Rwanda that resulted in the death of thousands of Tutsi civilians. Furthermore, the absence of a democratic government leads to formation of violent organization by the minority group e.g. in Sudan. Democracy ensures that the minority goals are achieved through a democratic process, and gives room for due process to be followed be it legal means or peaceful organizations. Therefore, the lack of proper democracy being practiced in a country makes violence to be the last resort.5 Mobilization of ethnic groups has also played a major role in fuelling ethnic c lashes, which can take the form of being offensive, defensive and preparatory that are all to blame for ethnic uprising. As a result, it leads to the formation of unruly militia groups that bring chaos in the society. Preparatory mobilization is highly counterproductive while at the same time creates unnecessary ethnic tension considering that some minor flare up in most cases leads to ethnic conflict due to this nature of preparedness. Ethnic security dilemma whereby there is no sovereign authority to oversee the security of every group security is another major factor that leads to conflicts. The government may be weak or entirely absent which creates a situation where the respective group acquires a group concern of feeling threatened, as

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

Business law - Essay Example The reporting of the matter has nothing to do with the claim from the insurance company or the third party. As per the policy in vogue, all insurers will have to operate day in and day out. Further, even those cases where settlement arrived at with the driver or vice versa, the matter should be brought to the notices of the insurers (The Law Society of Singapore 2012). 25 passengers who were dancing on the tune of music in the bus were injured on the application of brakes by the driver to save the bus from head on collision with the lorry. Had those passengers paid heed to the warning of driver to not to dance, the injuries could be averted. Here, neither the transport company nor the driver is liable for action (The Law Society of Singapore 2012). Whether Lancung Transport is liable for the action of the driver? Answer: The Actus reus  requires a voluntary act or omission for evidence of fault. It also merits clear causation so as to fix the liability against the individual at fau lt and make him liable for action of his misdeeds. This is the only way to remove the legal blame and to absolve the innocent. In another scenario if the defendant commits an act, which falls under the category of voluntary criminal act, it means that there is strong evidence that he is at fault, and can be blamed for the crime he committed. If an act does not fall within the category of involuntary act, such an act not be termed as act of automatism or under duress. Under the mentioned circumstances, the defendant will not be at fault, and hence not liable for action. It is a matter of fact that once a point of law has been decided by the competent jurisdiction in a particular case of law it can be applicable in all similar future cases that contains the same substance of the facts. Under the mentioned circumstances, the driver of the transport company is not liable for action under the law since the passengers were at fault, not the driver. If Lancung Transport has any defense aga inst their claim Answer: The cited transport company in its defense may take the plea that since those who met with the minor or major injuries are themselves responsible for their misdeeds and not the transport company. If those injured persons acceded to the request of the driver, the situation would have been the other way round. If the passengers are not ready to accept the version of the driver, they may have the authority to proceed further in the matter under the Non Injury Motor Accident protocol to determine the liability (The Law Society of Singapore 2012). This is the general policy for the stakeholders. However, the ultimate prerogative and the final decision lie with the insurers. If the injured persons against the wishes of the insurer will go to the trial court, have to bear the cost of suits and other expenses incurred on litigation to be determined by the competent court of law. Under the mentioned circumstances, the insurer will not be responsible to satisfy the ex penses as the competent court may deem fit and appropriate (The Law Society of Singapore 2012). 2-Explanation a) According to the doctrine of promissory, a promise is binding in nature although it is not supported by money consideration.  As per the applicable doctrine, a party of a contract ensures an unequivocal promise by words or act that he or she will not force for his or her legal rights available to them under the contract. The deeds of

Strategic Decision Making in a Global Business Setting Case Study

Strategic Decision Making in a Global Business Setting - Case Study Example 2. A cultural audit is needed to evaluate these two firms. The audit would evaluate the demographics of the population, education, and experience of the staff. The demographic variables to be judged are age, gender, language and ethnic background. The AMI operation seems to have a deficiency in terms of balance of gender. Only 15% of the worker populations are women. Such an imbalance in gender composition is not healthy and could be used as evidence against the firm if the company ever got into litigation with female workers. AMI also suffer from glass ceiling symptoms since not enough women are part of the managerial staff. The cultural audit performed at UCTC demonstrated that the firm has great diversity within its staff. A good initiative for this firm would be to create seminars and trainings to discuss the importance of diversity and how it can be used as a competitive advantage in the business industry. 3. Due to the differences in culture between the two firms my consulting firm could serve as a valuable intermediary that can create a plan to achieve synergy among the two business entities in the long run. The organizational culture affects the ability of the change agent to incorporate changes (Recklies, 2011). My first action would be to meet with the managerial staff of each company independently.

'The Cubie Report' Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

'The Cubie Report' - Essay Example The report had broken its parts into the committee's recommendations, the remit, the committee's approach, the elements of approach, and the initial responses to the committee. Before these, however, was some background information on the Scottish Parliament Debate and Proposals for England and Wales. In the first, there was to be a debate if agreed - In the second, David Blunkett had proposed for a 'a major new package of extra measures to widen access to higher education and tackle student hardship in England and Wales'. Blunkett was the Secretary of State for Education and Employment then. The elements of support referred to non-repayable support, tuition fees, student loan entitlement, and costs which were discussed as subtopics. Purpose. Written at the bottom-most part of the research note is the purpose of this document that Research Notes are compiled for the benefit of Members of Parliament and their personal staff. The document then serves as a digest for Members of Parliament and their staff to orient them of specific topics covered at specific times to help them be abreast of issues. Readership. The target readership of this document is clearly the Members of Parliament and their personal staff. ... Readership. The target readership of this document is clearly the Members of Parliament and their personal staff. However, secondary target could be the public, especially students and student leaders who are the most affected. As reflected in the responses to Cubie, there were many groups interested on the issue to include the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Scottish National Party, The Scottish Conservatives, The Scottish Green Party, The National Union of Students Scotland, COSHEP, The AUT in Scotland, and The CBI Scotland. Evaluation of content. The issue being discussed was capsulised and placed in a box. Clearly, it was about student support that should maximise opportunity for all to be able to access high quality lifelong learning. Such support, the box shows, "should promote social inclusion, the knowledge economy and an enhanced civil society." Then the system which can enable this is described and finally tells of the government role "to remove barriers to widening access and participation." The content, as discussed, is complex, because aside from the issue of student tuition, the work of Cubie as a committee is also hashed out, including Parliament motions and actions, and the reactions of political parties and student leadership. Format. The format presentation of the website caters to the more conscious readers like the government officials and the professionals. This judgment is based on the visual and contextual representation of the website. The conscripted color template of the presentation suggests formality and its gravity, thus it could be appreciated by sophisticated readers. The single dominant color of violet in the header signifies authority and discipline. Language impact. The language used in the document addressed the

Types of Matrimonial Regimes in Quebec Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Types of Matrimonial Regimes in Quebec - Essay Example Community Property, which is administered by the husband, Private Property, that is, the property bought under an individual's name, is administered by the spouses individually, during and after the marriage and, Wife's Reserved Property which is administered by the wife. Since 1st July 1970, couples who married without a marriage contract fell under the matrimonial regime of Partnership of Acquests. The rules under this regime classify the properties as acquests and private property. An acquest is something which is obtained during the marriage. It includes the property not declared as private property by law. The most commonly chosen matrimonial regime is the Separation as to Property. The properties of the spouses are categorized as private property and joint property. Property bought under the name of both the spouses is termed as joint property and is divided equally at the time of dissolution. The private property, like in every other regime, is retained by the individuals. Marriage is the formal union of a man and a woman, by which they become husband and wife. It can't get any simpler.

Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon Essay Example for Free

Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon Essay Among the films presented, what captures and awaken my interest was the film from Ann Hui entitled Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon. Somehow, it was portrayed very subtle in the few minutes of the filming, but at the end you will appreciate how it was orchestrated and letting message of the films came across to the mind of the viewers. The movie can be reflected also how the present vulnerability of some countries easily reckoned and entice by the overwhelming, numerous offers from the rich and powerful countries in exchange of something in their economy and future benefits. Then sooner or later their real intention of their acts slowly surface unveiling the shadow of hypocrites. I do appreciate much how the young and vibrant beautiful female villain in the movie depict her character of determination and patience in achieving her goal willing to gamble every thing she has in position. The female villain was willing to set whatever she has even her life was at stake for that cause of her just to fulfill the desire that stirred up her interest for her personal satisfaction and not after for the destruction of the many. Unfortunately, the fate of having that Green destiny sword was not meant for her to hold on forever for she was not the right one entrusted to look after the care of that green destiny sword. The very least she did, was trying to take the chance of having it. Thought she failed but you can not see in her face the expression of regrets. She have done her best to the best she can but maybe her best was not good enough and the fate of trying was not for the right time and responsibility to hold on that awesome destiny she ever dreamed of. The two characters that I fully appreciated to that young and vibrant villain named Jen Yu was so being energetic in pursuing her intention to have that sword and so cool that even a face of treacherous woman cannot be seen on her. But all of these Jen Yu adventures were a reflection of her mere fascination to the glamorous life of Yu Shu Lien. Believing that a woman can have so many adventures and achieving such freedom is a real marvelous for her. There we can consider also that it was her fascination for a great adventure and achieving such freedom that pushed her to commit such treachery in her in country. We can not even see any single history played along with the movie the reason why Jen Yu should be doing that kind of stuff. Though there are some influences she received from that witched type kind of a master, but we can see it clearly that she was really using her brain in a proper perspective. I really consider that Jen Yu was just using that witched type female master she clings to every time she has some chaos facing with. She was even more tricky compare to her lady master. But destiny did not fell at her hands for it was not intended to be. The least thing she did, was trying her luck on that great adventure of her. While on the other hand, Li Mu Bai, who were on the verge of his own quest of finding the missing sword, the Green Destiny who Li Mu Bai believed that finding it the said sword will open an avenue of knowing the real reason of his Master’s death. Li Mu Bai life was made colorful in the story due to Jen Yu’s presence in the said filming. It was Jen Yu’s character that made the story of Li Mu Bai more interesting and captivating. A little glimpse from the shadow of Jen Yu made Li Mu Bai shine clearly and made it more convincing to believed that such story as that still exist and continue to exist as long as it calls for someone to defend for the truth and righteousness against those people who had bested interest and willing to undermine the welfare of the many. To the question of how the story being orchestrated into the minds of the viewers, well, cinematography did it vividly. The venue of the filming was so simple and environmental yet it helped to make the story essence convey the message across to the minds of the viewers. The setting was so fit for the story because of the title that made it easily to connect with the settings itself of the story. Generally, though the story includes some furious fighting stands using their trademark artistry in handling a sword, still you can sense the compassion that goes with it. There was even a time when Li Mu Bai path came across with Jen Yu there were instance of chance giving Li Mu Bai to kill Jen Yu. But something holds on to him that reached at the back of his mind about the real motive, personality of the villain. Until such time, confession of the real scenario took place when the two characters met each other for a final encounter to fulfill their individual destiny that would dictate their fate in their future existence of the story. Just like us individual who has our own destiny to fulfill and keep continue to fight for it daily all in the name of personal gratification, satisfaction and survival. Nevertheless, we have to remember always that it is not what we have in position neither those people surrounding us and the potentials that we have that keeps us winning from the race. But it is by a having a big HEART of patience, determination and Humility.

The emasculation of males in society

The emasculation of males in society Emasculation of male has been said to gain its roots as from the World War II and the Post war period (Faludi. S 1999). Traditional gender roles have been said to the most important indicator of emasculation. This is mainly based on its application in modern society as opposed to traditional society. Changes based on jobs, empowerment, independence of women, loss of rugged individual, loss of G1 Joe ethics, Metrosexuals, Hollywood among others are important factors to consider in emasculation of the male in the modern society. According to Hillary, more effort is needed to eradicate emasculation of males in the modern society. Faludi J. in her book, The Betrayal of the American Man refers to male emasculation as the male crisis. She proceeds to state that it is the cause of the great unhappiness, violence , anger and confusion in the modern man. The thesis statement of this study is changes brought about by World War II and the post war Period. These had significant impacts on traditional gender roles more so the emasculation of the male. The problem is due to persists if men failed to recognize their gender roles meaning that it is very crucial for men to realize their gender roles before it is late. This state of affairs is not to be blamed on men or any particular person but on culture and society. These are the betrayers of men (Faludi S. 1999). Faludi identifies the reason why men are not able to pick themselves up as poor upbringing. During upbringing, they are raised to inherit a world they will exercise firm control over. Unfortunateltly, that world no longer exiats and all that remains an ornamental fa ¿Ã‚ ½ade of masculinity which Faludi refers to as  ¿Ã‚ ½male superdominance. ¿Ã‚ ½ Discussion Emasculation refers to the deprivation of man ¿Ã‚ ½s masculinity, power and his manhood hence making him impotent of both identity and expression. Through emasculation, patriarchy has lost value in men thus demoting male dominance in the family and the society. Masculinity is associated with the male. With emasculation, the patriarchy that exists in the male is breached hence enabling the female to compete with man for existence. It is true that masculinity is a female centered realty in every society in the world. According to Faludi (1999) the laid off laboring which has caused man to lose his work mates and the many paranoid husbands insecure about their wives during the second half of the twentieth century is a clear indication of the male crisis. Masculinity crisis was evidenced in America stage whereby men discovered that women were advancing. The advancement of women has been seen as a driving force to men ¿Ã‚ ½s distress. According to faludi, men have discovered that masc ulinity and femininity are similar ornaments, that they do not essentially differ from each other as it were the case in the traditional society. Mass culture from Hollywood, Madison and pop psychology highlights the avenues of America man troubles .several American men have perceived the advancement of women as the major cause of their decline (Faludi,1999). It was argued that men in stiffed did not miss male supremacy but companionship and social relevance. It was argued that emasculation of male has empowered women therefore being in a position to snatch jobs that were formerly made for men and dominated by men. Women have become independent.they have learnt to rely on themselves and not their husbands. A good example is that of divorced women who have managed to provide for their families in the absence of men or husbands. It was argued that in modern society, women do not base male utility on finding work and appreciation but it is all about looking for one ¿Ã‚ ½s place in the society. Faulty refers modern society as a Media world, that the media influences everything. For instance, the media has played a major role in the feminization process. Through the media, the public has advanced feminism massively resulting into what is referred to as gender war. This is because it sets men against women whereby the two genders struggle for existence. In America, men were said to have been betrayed, a situation which was not unique. According to Faludi, American men have faced emasculation but to some extent, this has been highlighted by the fact that many women are working into men ¿Ã‚ ½s miserable production jobs but they still earn low wages. Emasculation of the male also depends on personalities. Some men clearly emasculated while others still have very strong male complex. The Economic system in Stiff ed has highlighted aspect of emasculation of males through the manner in which it screws males in white working class jobs and their families in particular (Faludi, 1999). The collapse of masculinity has left males uncomfortable since their gender roles have been violated. Culture reveals that emasculation of men resulted from men ¿Ã‚ ½s brutalality, violence and irresponsibility, which was of their nature and the nature of their hormones. Susan Faludi holds that in the modern world cultural forces are disfiguring men ¿Ã‚ ½s lives and destroys their chances to live happy lives. Men ¿Ã‚ ½s attributes such as craft, social utility and loyalty are no longer honored as the traditional masculinity continues to decline or collapse. To Faludi, they have lost their loyalty and their economic power. The way we never was a myth presented by Stephanie Coontz which illustrates the way of life experienced in the modern world or society. According to this author, none of the past moments presents workable models based on how people conduct their lives today. According to this book, dichotomous gender roles were developed in the early nineteen century with an aim of creating balance between the male individualism and the female altruism. It has been argued that economic and political trends have led to deterioration of traditional life values hence advocating for emasculation of males. Male are said to be ignorant in that they believe that their reality is centered among females without adhering to the fact that female also have their own reality. Male reality is determined externally but not internally, because it has been noted that masculinity is measured based on one ¿Ã‚ ½s wife satisfying behavior in the society. This is to mean that the male soul does not play any part in individual reality. The selfishness implicated in the disregard of reality of females has been considered as the major cause of both spiritual and emotional differences between the two types of gender. As regards emotions, females are considered to be more emotional as compared to males. In the matter concerning spiritual backgrounds, female take the forefront as they are considered to be more religious than their male counterparts. During the World War II and the period after the war, several changes occurred in society leading to the erosion of male masculinity (Clinton Hillary, 1996). Women learnt that their freedom had been barred by the patriarchy or the dominance of males in the society. Before then, love was a good indicator of the relationship between the male and female but with the onset of emasculation of male, love was replaced by economic foundation . In the absence of emasculation, women had a close attachment to their husband. Emasculation in most cases is said to germinate into what scientist call bacterium. Male are said to be have been disadvantaged by the emasculation which is said to shed off their powers hence are they unable to practice patriarchy in the society. According to the masculine logics, this breach in behavior calls for punishment or any other consequences in the society. Males are said to find it difficult to resist the use of what is referred to as physical force and that is why aggression has been considered natural to male as in their reptilian brain. When males are offended by their wives they tend to use their masculine to punis h them but according to the recent research based on masculines, it has been noted that masculine prowess is under the counter of emasculation . According to Stephanie Coontz, women tend to exercise powers above their husbands in the society, which is contrary to the traditional gender roles. They use state authorities like the police as their watchdogs and they have the powers of summoning them at a mere dial of 911. With increased emasculation of males, both the man ¿Ã‚ ½s reality and masculinity are irrepairably damaged. They will never at any given time be the same again as it was during the times of traditional society. To cover their emasculations many males have indulged themselves into drinking sprees. Alcohol has become the bandage for their masculine wounds. Emasculation is said to be worsening as the time goes on hence developing into a full-fledged kind of disease. This showed how emasculation of males had affected men and their families whereby women had rights to decide when to quit marriage. Males are said to have no alternative reality that they could rely upon as opposed to females in every society in the w orld. Emasculation of males has made them to result into alcohol taking which has made them lose consciousness of their males reality in favor of their imaginative realities. This imagination of their reality has had negative effects on their jobs meaning it interferes with their jobs to the point that they are unable to play their roles as breadwinners in the family. Many males think or consider alcohol as the best solution for their emasculation but it has negative effects to males roles since it made them lessconcerned to what is expected of them. Imagination reality and Alcohol are said to collide if and only if the males apply them both. Emasculation is said to reach what is called malignancy hence resulting to death when males lose their jobs because they believe that there is no life worth living . The process of human evolution has been said to result to a more devastating form of emasculation since it led to feminization process through destruction of patriarchy organization and the old paradigm of expression of the masculine (Fricker, 2000). In the process of human evolvion, several roles or features were made less useful in the society. Things such as suppression, war, aggression, competition and brute muscle force are no long inexistence today. Emasculation is argued to become stronger and stronger as males escape the destruction imposed by nature. As time goes on, masculinity of males is viewed to have been transforming into a situation considered by many scholars as a vanguard of femininity in the society. According to Faludi, men have discovered that masculinity and femininity similar ornaments meaning that they do not differ from each other as it were the case in the traditional society. Mass culture from Hollywood, Madison and pop psychology highlights the avenues of the American man troubles .several America men have perceived the advancement of women as the major cause of their decline. Emasculation of males was good or bad depending on the side of human evolution one stood after the completion of feminization process. The feminization process is a complex and unstoppable process in the transformation of human beings since it is beyond people ¿Ã‚ ½s ability. This is to mean that human transformation is a process controlled by the spirit of God in every society in the world. This is a strong ascription of the natural law school of thought. In the early form of Christianity, females are said to possess values such as obedience, commitment, innocence, ability to sufferer silently and faithfulness (Fricker, 2000). According to the transformation of human being and the impact of industrial revolution,it was argued that these values are no longer useful since females have realized their roles after the call for gender equity in the society. Feminization process has brought about rugged individualism in the world where by a man has become a master of his own fate but not the fate of others; men are now responsible to make their beds, cook and clean among others roles previously known as duties of women. Rugged individualism has been implicated through several movies and television in the United States. The Hollywood culture is a good indicator of emasculation of males. Most of the American movies present a large number of female actors as opposed to males. In these movies female characters are empowered or play a dominant role in acting meaning that they are the most dangerous and armed characters as compared to the males. Hollywood culture had portrayed men as having adopted female characteristic. Men have taken up female habits such as trimming eyebrows, slim, tight abs, attractiveness among others. On the contrary, several researches have showed that females have embraced male ¿Ã‚ ½s characteristics and that is why they have ventured into roles that traditionally were made for males. On the issues of appearance conscious, it has been noted that with the onset of emasculation of males, many men have become more conscious of their appearance than it was before. Some sent a lot of times decorating their bodies through the use of cosmetics and other chemicals or substances that are said to bring about beauty in human beings. Traditionally men had a little concern on the issue of beauty but this seems to have ceased with passage of time (Lewis, 1975). Younger men are the major victims of appearance conscious since they are said to adhere to fashion trends more often than in past .Emasculation of males have made women to become independent of them meaning that women are able to provide for themselves without depending on their husband who have become ignorant of their role as providers. It has therefore been discovered that many women or females are not willing to get married to men since they can take on the role of provider with ease than it was before. This is so because females are taking on the roles or jobs of males in the modern society a fact that has contributed male emasculation. Professional fields are flooded since career equity has empowered female to compete males dominated jobs. In the past, that is before the world war two, females were not entitled to venture into certain fields such as drivers, engineers, doctors among others because nature prohibits them . The world war empowered women or females to take part in economic activities in every nation in the world. This is to mean that females have the right to remain in the task force like any other human being. Traditional gender roles are no longer considered important in the modern society that came about because of the industrial revolution. This industrial revolution is said to have enlightened females thus ceasing from being victims of male exploitation in the society. It was witnessed that emasculation of male has empowered women therefore being in a position to snatch jobs that were made for men. Women have become independent meaning that they rely on themselves but not their husbands. They are no longer silent sufferer and that is why they have become increasingly independent than in the past. The Solution According to Faludi, there is an opportunity for the two sexes to look above their adversarial relationship. That they can agree on a more suitable mechanism or paradigm of human progress that will enable both to excel. Solution to emasculation of males is that gender is socially determined meaning that people perceive their role depending on the acquired knowledge that brings about equity in human beings. Through the book gender-neutral socialization, people are free to make choices that at some points made them stuck in certain social positions in the modern society. This is to mean that those choices people made on their lives contribute largely to their imprisonment in their conventional gender roles (Hilary, 2004). According to Frazier, the solutions lays primarily in employment. He states that once a man has a job he behaves like a man and takes up both his sexual and social roles with adequacy. Further, man should not measure his masculinity base on the female perception of his ability to perform his duties (Scott M. 1997)

Experiences of Refugee Settlement in Norway

Experiences of Refugee Settlement in Norway Abstract This paper is a qualitative research project that explored the perspectives of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees on their resettlement in Trondheim Norway and considered aspects of their integration into Norwegian society. Integration is a multidimensional construct dealing with complex interrelated processes pertaining to societal participation that is, the ways in which migrants become part of the social, cultural, economic, and political spheres of the country of resettlement. This study did not discuss all perspectives of resettlement and integration. in contrast, this paper focuses mainly on the social and cultural aspects of this phenomenon. Introduction Migration is a process that commences with the simple thought of moving, but it continues long after the individual arrives in her or his new home. The process is constrained by certain factors such as capital, immigration policy, and the existence of kinship networks. Individuals, who are able to overcome these constraints and decide to migrate, must overcome a new set of challenges upon arrival in the host county. These challenges include the need to adapt to a new labour market, use of a new language, and integration with the rest of society. Integration is a multidimensional construct dealing with complex interrelated processes pertaining to societal participation that is, the ways in which migrants become part of the social, cultural, economic, and political spheres of the country of resettlement (Bloch, 1997). This paper, however, focuses primarily on the social and cultural aspects of this phenomenon. Objective of the study Exploring the settlement experiences of Sri Lankan Tamil refuges in Trondheim Norway and considered aspects of their integration into Norwegian society. Research questions What factors influence and constrain the decision to immigrate to Norway? What features influence the community’s resettlement in Trondheim? What are the restrictions that Sri Lankan refugees face in process of integration into Norwegian Society? Theoretical frame work Integration is frequently described in terms of continuity versus change, continuity being synonymous with socio-cultural maintenance and change with integration (Carey-Wood at el 1995). For this study I adopted a framework proposed by Berry and Sam (1997) that views continuity and change as complimentary, rather than competing, processes. This framework considers maintenance of socio-cultural identity and the associated establishment of ties with the dominant society as joint criteria for successful integration. A variety of factors influence the integration process. One is the distance between the home and the host culture; the greater the cultural gap between the refugee and the country of relocation, the more difficult the integration process (Duke, 1996). Another determinant is generational status; â€Å"The settlement of refugees in Britain †¦ indicate that the first generation of adult migrants largely preserve the features of culture and lifestyle of their country of origin† (Carey-Wood at el 1995); it is the second generation that more readily accepts the norms and cultural practices of the country of resettlement. The extent of migrants’ participation in mainstream culture also depends on structural factors within the society, including social and economic conditions and public policies that support their efforts in this direction (Duke, 1996). Refugees leave their homelands under great pressure, usually as a result of war, severe political or economic upheaval, or religious or ethnic persecution. They arrive in the host country after having endured the embarrassment and horrors of flight and, for some, prolonged stays in refugee camps. Refugees are not able to plan their migration in advance; consequently, they arrive in a host country unprepared for what they may encounter there. In addition, they must cope with the strain associated with sudden separation from, or loss of, family along with the challenges of integration into the country of resettlement. The dimensions of race, gender and the forms of patriarchy in their home and host countries compound their situation. The Tamil migration is largely made up of refugees and homelandless people. According to UNHCR, between 1980 – 1999, 256, 307 people of Sri Lankan origin applied for asylum in Europe, one of the top ten groups of asylum seekers during this period (Cheran, 2003). Large numbers of Tamils have been granted some form of residence status in their host country. Tamil migration consists of an estimated 700,000 people settled in Canada, Europe, India and Australia (Cheran, 2003) in which, some of them have migrated to Norway. Most live in Oslo, which is the capital city of Norway, and other small cities like Trondheim. It is likely therefore that one in every four Sri Lankan Tamils now lives in the migration. There is a long tradition of Tamil migration from the Jaffna peninsula. Elite and dominant groups among the Tamils of Sri Lanka have had a long history of temporary emigration for education and employment, usually to Britain and Malaysia. Sustaining a society under stress, strain and displacement has been the most important function of the Tamil Diaspora (Cheran, 2003). Almost, Sri Lankan Tamils are racial and ethnic largest second minorities in Norway (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oslo#Economy). To a certain extend, Tamil, those who are living in Norway have been affected by the changes in social structure. These changes included distance in social kinship, different language, and social behavior and so on. These and other restrictions in day to day constitute a significant hardship for Sri Lankan Tamil families. Role of Sri Lankan Tamil men and women in Sri Lankan Tamil’s culture Sri Lankan Tamil is a patriarchal society with its roots in Hinduism. The basis of Sri Lankan Tamil social structure is the kin-family system, which is traced through patrilineal (through fathers’) descent. Social identity in Sri Lanka is tied to kin, race, religion and caste. But religious category is not part of the social meaning and everyday interactions in Sri Lankan Tamil culture. Hinduism teachings permeate the consciousness of Sri Lankan Tamils, providing guidance in a certain aspects of daily living, including roles and expectations for men and women. Usually, men are the head of the family and who generate income for maintain the cost of living and other expenses of family. Women are generally regarded as subordinate to men and their primary role is to care for husbands, children and members of their extended families. Sri Lankan Tamils and identity documents When Sri Lankan Tamils fled the country, many did not take their identity documents with them because of uptight departures, and intensive fighting. Few people were able to take their documents, only to have the authenticity of these papers questioned by immigration officials. And because of conditions back in Sri Lanka, there was no longer a centralized government office from which they could request new documents or have existing ones verified. This situation caused problems for the many Sri Lankans who sought refuge in Norway, where identity documents are normally required for refugees seeking to become landed immigrants (i.e., permanent residents). Because so many Sri Lanka refugees could not produce documents deemed satisfactory by Citizenship and Immigration Norway. Undocumented refugees from Sri Lanka have been required to wait for more than a year after refugee determination before proceeding with applications for permanent residency (UDI Norway). This means it takes long time before they become permanent residents Methodology In this paper, describe a qualitative research project that explored the settlement experiences of Sri Lankan Tamil refuges in Trondheim Norway and considered aspects of their integration into Norwegian society. In depth and Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data that demonstrate these different issues in detail. In-depth interviews are the suitable method to use because they offer participants the chance to explain their experiences and the meanings they attach to those experiences (Limb and Dwyer 2001, Patton, 1990). A semi-structured interview format (Hay, 2000) or what Patton (1990) refers to as the ‘general interview guide approach’ was used. In this style of interview a list of key questions or issues, but not an inflexible, standardized set of questions, is established in advance. This interview format enables the investigator to ensure that certain topics are addressed by all research participants, which is essential for comparison, while still maintaining the flow of spontaneous conversation, the flexibility to pursue unanticipated topics broached by the participant, the option of probing respondents for additional information, and the ability to modify questions to suit a particular individual (Patton, 1990). The interview guides is used for each individual. Snow-ball sampling was used to recognize research participants that presented ‘information-rich cases,’ (Patton, 1990). Contrary to random sampling, where the researcher requests a representative sample that can be generalized to a distinct population, snow-ball sampling allows the investigator to identify those individuals that will give the richest information for the study, information that cannot be obtained as well from other potential participants (Patton, 1990). When I began research on Sri Lankan Tamil in Trondheim, Norway, I had little knowledge about the community or the sort of information that was available. I soon found that there was scarce literature addressing immigration of this community. In order to obtain detailed information about the experiences of Sri Lankan Tamil living in Trondheim, I had to look for primary source information. I conducted two in-depth interviews which lasted half an hour (more or less), and four shorter interviews (ranging between 10-15 minutes), all of which were based on the same format. The reason I chose a combination of these three (primary literatures, in-depth and semi structured interviews) was so that I could have information on several levels. The basic format provided a sample of general information and experiences, through which I could identify patterns within the community. The short interviews allowed me to explore immigrant situations and their own perceptions in some detail. The in-depth interviews paint a more comprehensive picture of the immigrant experience, including the reasons for leaving Sri Lanka, as well as their changing experiences and attitudes throughout their resettlement in Norway. Surveys would not have been able to capture all that I wanted to find. Unfortunately, time constraints limited the number of in-depth interviews that could be conducted. The circumstances behind their migration differ from person to person, and it requires separate analysis. I did not interview individuals who participate in the temporary worker program (for instance, student with temporary visa). The individuals who were interviewed are Sri Lankan Tamil who lived in Trondheim for more than two years. The sample included individuals aged nineteen to individuals in their sixties. Individuals who were interviewed are residents and citizens of Norway. My selection of interviewees takes transnationalism into consideration rather than the traditional definition of immigration. Thus respondents included individuals who planned to stay in Trondheim for several years to live, work, study, and become a part of Trondheim’s social structure. Respondents are from different backgrounds, states of origin in Sri Lanka, age; and entered Norway by using different policies such as asylum seekers, student visa, and family reunion and so on. They also now live in different locations throughout the Trondheim. Both men and women were interviewed. The respondents were found in part through a snow-ball sample and partly through the use of my own Sri Lankan Tamil friend’s network in Trondheim. The interviewees were assured anonymity. All interviews were conducted in Tamil. The interviews were conducted in Hindu Kovil (Temple) which is situated closed to Tiller Trondheim, coffee shop and some other places. The interviews were effective in supplying information regarding perceptions of what was necessary and difficult about resettlement in Trondheim. The lack of structure in the community, the reasons behind this situation, as well as why they chose the Trondheim. Findings Consequences of Undocumented Sri Lanka Refugee Status In Norway, the rights and privileges of all refugees are restricted in a number of ways. The problem for undocumented Sri Lanka refugees is that the restrictions remain in place for at least more than a year. This prolonged period of limitations on rights and privileges poses serious problems. People in this study discussed four topics related to their refugee status: restrictions on family reunification and mobility access to postsecondary education, access to employment, Concerns about children’s education Cultural Norms and Differences in Childrearing Practices and their perspectives on the regulations. Restrictions on Family Reunification and Mobility In Sri Lanka, people were adapted to living amongst their extended families. When they fled the country, however, their families were torn apart. The most of the people in this study had children, wives, and mothers and fathers living Sri Lanka and overseas. Refugees in Norway are prohibited from sponsoring family members until they have become landed immigrants. This regulation was very distressing to the refugees, because they knew they would have to wait at least five years before they could reunite with family members. Refugees are also not eligible for Norwegian travel documents. If they leave Norway for any reason, they are not allowed to return. This means they may not visit family members living in other countries. In times of family emergency, Norwegian Immigration sometimes makes exceptions for refugees with acceptable identity documents, but this option is not open to undocumented Sri Lanka refugees. They are not even allowed to travel overseas to visit a relative who is seriously ill or attend a funeral for a relative who has passed away. The following story was a typical one: â€Å"The greatest problem I am facing is that three of my own children are in Sri Lanka. †¦ I am two years in Norway †¦and for two years I haven’t seen my family.†¦ If I could have [my landed immigrant] document I could have visited them or sponsored them so that they could have joined me. My biggest disappointment is that I cannot sponsor my family†. Restrictions on Access to Postsecondary Education Refugees are guaranteed full access to elementary and secondary education by Norwegian government. But they are not eligible for educational loans and scholarships until they get permanent resident permit. Therefore, most are cut off from postsecondary education. One of the young man expressed his frustration on this restriction â€Å"Norway has recognized us as refugees, given us food and shelter and tried her best to assist us, but at the same time she has deprived us from what we need the most education. Our future depends on education. In addition, we have to wait for long time to continue our education since it takes time to issue permanent resident permit Therefore we loss courage to continue it further†. Restrictions on Access to Employment Refugees can only get temporary work permits. This makes them ineligible for some jobs. Even when they are eligible, many employers are still reluctant to hire them because of lack of language fluency. One informant said he was hired for a cleaning job, and excited when his employer found out he was a refugee. â€Å"The informant asked me, ‘If you dont have your landed papers, how can I trust you?’ Refugees are not eligible for bank loans and even internet bank facility. This makes it difficult for them to start self employment. A person who had been in business in Sri Lanka explained: â€Å"If I had the proper documents and a loan to open my own business, I could be an independent person. They [Immigration officials] told me to stay at home and wait for their subsidies. That is not what I came here for†. Because of the restrictions on education and work, the few people who had professional careers in Sri Lanka could not get work in their fields or upgrade their skills. One interviewer in this situation described his frustration: â€Å"I am a professional teacher with 7 years of work experience. Since I came to Norway, I find myself absolutely denied the opportunity to work in my profession or to go to college and continue my education†. Concerns about children’s education Sri Lankan children are faced with overwhelming problems in schools in Norway. Many have had little education because of the upheaval in Sri Lanka and the time spent in refugee camps. Lack of Norwegian language proficiency is another problem. One mother explained: â€Å"Even if the child has a good educational background, with a strong base in math and other subjects, still he wouldn’t be able to follow along in class because of the language. Language is the key factor, and it is only when the child has a strong language base that he can catch up to his or her classmates†. This issue is complicated by the fact that many Sri Lanka parents also face the same language barrier and cannot provide the needed educational support at home. Other difficulties were related to differences in cultural norms and expectations between Sri Lankan and Norwegian schools. Certain behaviours those are acceptable in Norwegian schools that are unacceptable in Sri Lankan schools. Likewise, behaviours that are rewarded in Sri Lankan schools may be viewed negatively here. Cultural Norms and Differences in Childrearing Practices Some parents raised issues about the negative influences of contemporary culture of their children. They were uncomfortable with some of the behaviours that their children had developed since their arrival in Norway. One mother gave this example: â€Å"Our children use some words, for example†¦.., and sometimes they make bad signals. These are bad things that are accepted here, but according to our culture, they are considered to be avoided†. Cultural differences in disciplinary practices formed another major topic of discussion. Sri Lankan strongly believes that children need discipline to learn respect, good manners, and good behaviour. The parents in my study were aware that some common methods of discipline in Sri Lankan culture, such as pristine, are not acceptable in Norway. In school, children are instructed to call police if they believe they are being verbally or physically abused. This threat of calling to police has become a weapon for Sri Lankan children to hold over their parents. Some women said that their children were becoming proud and disrespectful because of this. They also worried that the Children’s Aid Society might take their children away (they pointed out a very good example that has happened recently). The parents were concerned about their teenage children, who had graduated from high school, but waiting for jobs. Without school or work to keep them occupied, many spent their days in local interact, and their mothers worried that they might be drawn to drug and alcohol use. Finally, the women recognized that their roles and influence as parents were changing, as their children became more a part of Norwegian culture. They worried that some children might abandon their Sri Lankan culture heritage altogether. Discussion and Conclusion The people said they were grateful to the Norwegian government for accepting them as refugees. They were pleased to have left behind a culture of war for food, shelter, and safety. Nevertheless, everyday life was very stressful for them at the beginning, and feelings of anxiety, depression, and extreme nervousness were common. Some of them were still feeling the effects of stress due to the disturbance of the war in Sri Lanka, their flight out of the country, and their detention in refugee camps before their arrival in Norway. Many were sorrowful over the break up of their families and their inability to reunite with them. The stress of being in Norway while husbands or wife, children, parents were still overseas was a difficult burden for them to bear. Abbott (1997) points out that â€Å"separation in the family unit of involuntary migrants greatly disturbs the most basic relationship network† (Abbott, 1997). Results of other studies indicate that prolonged waits for family reunification, such as the men in my study were experiencing, are unfavorable to the integration process (Bloch, 2000). Another factor that weighed on the Sri Lankan Tamil refugees was the loss of their homes, culture, country, lifestyle, friends, and family, and their need to mourn these losses. Beside with this grieving process were the stresses of learning a new language and adapting to a culture with values that were, in some instances, in indirect conflict with traditional Hinduism values, attitudes and norms. The refugees’ difficulties in reconciling these contradictions demonstrate the importance of the distance between the home and host cultures as a determinant of successful or unsuccessful integration (Bloch 1997). Difficulties with Norske and problems with intercultural communication disadvantaged the Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in their dealings with government officials, teachers, and landlords and so on. Problems such as unemployment and constant worries about the well being of their families were other significant factors. Yet, poor Norske proficiency, the obstacles on secondary and postsecondary education and limited employment opportunities made it hard for the refugees to get jobs and integrate into the economic sphere. Recommendations Reducing waiting period of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees to get permanent resident permit Developing educational programs and services to meet the needs of Sri Lankan students and their families. Crating some job opportunities for refuges to get jobs easily The Sri Lankan community have to establish separate schools where Sri Lankan Tamil children would be taught the Hinduism religion, and traditional behaviour and cultural practices in addition to their regular academic program (actually, there is a Tamil school in Trondheim to teach Tamil culture and Religion ). Reference Abbott, L. (1997). A Barrier to Settlement: The Experience of Resettling in Australia as a Refugee when Family Remains in a Conflict Zone. Thesis for Masters of Social Work. Unnamed university, New South Wales. Bloch A. (1997) Refugee migration and settlement: A case study of the London borough of Newham, Ph.D. Thesis, London: Goldsmiths College-University of London. Bloch, A. (2000). Refugee settlement in Britain: the impact of policy on participation. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, 26(2), 75. Retrieved November 16, 2000 from Expanded Academic ASAP Intl Ltd on-line database. Carey-Wood J., Duke K., Kam V., Marshall T. (1995) The settlement of refugees in Britain, Home Office Research Study 141, London: Her Majestys Stationary Office. Cheran, R, (2003) Diaspora circulation and transnationalism as agents for change in the post conflict zones of Sri Lanka, A policy paper submitted to the Berghof Foundation for Conflict Management, Berlin, Germany, forthcoming publication, 2004, York University, Toronto, Canada. Duke K. (1996) The resettlement experiences of refugees in the UK: Main findings from an interview study, New Community 22, 3, 461-478. Espn, O. M. (1999) Women crossing boundaries. New York: Routledge. Limb, M., Dwyer, C. (2001) Quaalitative methodologies for Geographers,Oxford university press Inc, Newyork. Oslo-Demographics [Online]  / auth. Wikipedia the free encyclopedia  // Wikipedia foundation Inc Web site.   Wikipedia foundation, march 27, 2008 .   march 31, 2008.   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oslo#Economy. Refugees and asylum [Online]  / auth. Immigration The Norwegian Directorate of  // NORWEGIAN DIRECTORATE OF IMMIGRATION web site.   NORWEGIAN DIRECTORATE OF IMMIGRATION, 04 19, 2004.   03 18, 2008.   http://www.udi.no/templates/Tema.aspx?id=4481.

What Being An American Menas To Me :: essays research papers

What Being An American Means to Me I believe the term American applies to the entire hemisphere, from Alaska to Chile and Argentina, assuming that all people fall under the same culture as the conventional United States. Basically I feel like it means being a small part of a huge diversity of people. As an infant, like all other infants, I started with no culture and slowly learned the cultural values of the United States of America. These cultural values seem almost oblivious as I look back on it now, but as I have matured I have come to understand what it means to be an American. If I have the chance to travel some I believe I will have a stronger sense of what being American means to me. I think this is because it would give me a more realistic view of the world with regards to other countries. With diversity comes learning, understanding the differences between people and myself. It often seems that people simply think that their values are the right ones, but I would like to think that it is within the potential of every person to go beyond this. I believe that there is probably always a better way, we just have to find it. I think it is important to learn not to attach a good or bad label on a culture, but to realize that life is not that simple. Being American is a privile ge and there are many connotations to being American. I also think it is important to stand for what you believe in, but also be accepting of other possibilities without judgement. We all have to realize that there are differences and that is what makes this world such a great place to live in. Sometimes I believe that Americans feel they are so powerful and elitist and do not appreciate the wonder of other cultures in the world. I think being an American means the right to have rights, the freedom to be different. I would also say it means having the ability to control your own life, your destiny.

Freedom and Authoritarianism :: essays research papers

Freedom and Authoritarianism Freedom and equality are intertwined with one another. Freedom is defined as the custom of being free, political independence, and the possession of civil rights. When reflecting upon the history of the twentieth century many people all over the world were not afforded the luxury of being born with freedom or born with equal rights. In most cases, those people were often oppressed or subjugated by various forms of systematic state sponsored authoritarianism and terror. In order to receive the freedom necessary to survive and the equality required to live a happy and successful life the oppressed people had to take action. Often times the action took on various forms such as, revolts or nonviolent campaigns. Because the governments reliance on authoritarianism and terror to control their citizens, often times revolts and/or nonviolent campaigns were the consequence. Therefore, any advances towards gaining freedom and equality cannot happen without some form of systematic state-sponsor ed authoritarianism and terror taking place first. It is no coincidence because the two phenomena are linked. As mentioned before, any gains toward freedom and equality coexist with authoritarianism and terror maintained by the government. Emma Goldman, an anarchist, speaks of freedom, in â€Å"Victims of Morality†, but believes that religion is the main factor hindering the growth of that freedom. Goldman uses the term â€Å"morality† when referencing religion. Goldman believes that â€Å"morality† is â€Å"paralyzing to the minds and hearts of the people.† She also believes that morality forces people to become conformists during the process of reasoning and the completion of daily tasks, by ignoring their true inner thoughts and feelings. Therefore, Goldman believes that morality restricts people’s happiness and freedom by â€Å"shutting out love, light, and joy from the lives of innumerable victims.† As a result, Goldman does not believe that morality will help eradicate the ills of society. Goldman’s views involving religion and freedom d iffer from those of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s views involving that same topic. In Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s â€Å"Letter from Birmingham Jail†, his belief was that any gains toward freedom and equality could not happen without the use of God’s will and the influence of Christian values. Dr. King Jr. believed that Christianity and his faith in God would help eradicate the many injustices in society. A guiding force in Dr. King Jr.’s nonviolent protest were the â€Å"principles dear to the Christian faith†, in which, the need to fight injustices against people was on of them. Freedom and Authoritarianism :: essays research papers Freedom and Authoritarianism Freedom and equality are intertwined with one another. Freedom is defined as the custom of being free, political independence, and the possession of civil rights. When reflecting upon the history of the twentieth century many people all over the world were not afforded the luxury of being born with freedom or born with equal rights. In most cases, those people were often oppressed or subjugated by various forms of systematic state sponsored authoritarianism and terror. In order to receive the freedom necessary to survive and the equality required to live a happy and successful life the oppressed people had to take action. Often times the action took on various forms such as, revolts or nonviolent campaigns. Because the governments reliance on authoritarianism and terror to control their citizens, often times revolts and/or nonviolent campaigns were the consequence. Therefore, any advances towards gaining freedom and equality cannot happen without some form of systematic state-sponsor ed authoritarianism and terror taking place first. It is no coincidence because the two phenomena are linked. As mentioned before, any gains toward freedom and equality coexist with authoritarianism and terror maintained by the government. Emma Goldman, an anarchist, speaks of freedom, in â€Å"Victims of Morality†, but believes that religion is the main factor hindering the growth of that freedom. Goldman uses the term â€Å"morality† when referencing religion. Goldman believes that â€Å"morality† is â€Å"paralyzing to the minds and hearts of the people.† She also believes that morality forces people to become conformists during the process of reasoning and the completion of daily tasks, by ignoring their true inner thoughts and feelings. Therefore, Goldman believes that morality restricts people’s happiness and freedom by â€Å"shutting out love, light, and joy from the lives of innumerable victims.† As a result, Goldman does not believe that morality will help eradicate the ills of society. Goldman’s views involving religion and freedom d iffer from those of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s views involving that same topic. In Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s â€Å"Letter from Birmingham Jail†, his belief was that any gains toward freedom and equality could not happen without the use of God’s will and the influence of Christian values. Dr. King Jr. believed that Christianity and his faith in God would help eradicate the many injustices in society. A guiding force in Dr. King Jr.’s nonviolent protest were the â€Å"principles dear to the Christian faith†, in which, the need to fight injustices against people was on of them.

George Washington Farewell Speech

Early in 1796 President George Washington decided that he didn’t want to run for a third term as the United States President. President George Washington started drafting his â€Å"Farewell Address â€Å". The Address was drafted multiple times in part due to Alexander Hamilton’s suggestions. This address was hand written in crafted into a 32 page speech that warned Americans on issues such avoiding excessive political party spirit and geographical distinctions. In foreign affairs, he warned against long-term alliances with other nations. President George Washington’s Farewell address was printed in Philadelphia Pennsylvania In September of 1796. The Final manuscript of this speech can be found at New York Public Library. I will be summarizing the major points of George Washington’s Farewell address to the American people. First, George Washington opened his Farewell Speech by expressing his gratitude to the Country by sticking by his side when America was in a crisis. Washington urged all Americans to stay focused and not to allow any entity to break the Sprit and power of America. He made a convincing argument to Americans to be patriotic and loyal to their country. Washington also encouraged Americans to stick with the foundations of the Constitution of America and not to be so quick to ratify the constitution; he urged to give the standing laws of the constitution a chance. In Addition to being loyal and patriotic, Washington also encouraged Americans not to have political parties. Washington argued that if there was an existence of political parties, there would be a power struggle between the two parties. Washington more specifically urged the country not to have regional political parties because it would cause extreme problems just 2 s it had during the American Revolutionary War. Washington explained that political parties should be avoided at all cost. Washington also talked about America investing in a good educational system. He justified this idea by saying in order for America to have an intellectual government its people need to be well educated. Also, Washington urged America to avoid permanent Rivals or Alliances illustrating that if America did have permanent Rivals or alliances nothing good would come out of it. Washington told Americans to keep peace, that was the best way for a newly country to thrive. He stated that permanent Alliances would only cause issues with the country you’re in alliance with because you would have to give up things you don’t want to give up, there would be a possibility of divided loyalty between your own citizens, and jealousy was another issue that could possibly arise. Although Washington opposed of permanent Rivals or Alliances he was in favor of alliances when fighting a defensive war, alliances are okay in emergencies he stated. Another point that Washington made in his Farewell speech was that morals and religion both play a major role in politics, law, and government. He stated that without religion it would be hard to trust anyone who swears under an oath of the law. Washington also made the point that a good politician in a position such as leadership should possess good morals and a religious foundation. Washington began to close the speech with saying that he did his absolute best in leading the country in his two terms that he served. He stated that the whole purpose of his farewell address was to leave a record behind that the country could refer to in the future if these issues arise. President George Washington served two terms of presidency and declined the third term offer. Washington was just and fair when it came to his position in power and he never displayed an attitude of being boastful or superior. He displayed all the qualities of a good commander and chief. His Farewell speech was the exit of his presidency. This speech was amazing because George Washington pointed out a lot of issues that America should avoid in order to survive as a new nation. Many of the issues that he addressed turned into reality. In the past two hundred years America has experienced many if not all of these issues that Washington talked about during his speech. Washington was well respected by his peers as well as the American people. He left an incredible legacy behind his name George Washington. I enjoy reading your discussion board essay question. Christian you made some very valid points in your essay that I will like to point out. First, you stated that there is not a clear cut separation of church in state in the United States constitution. I agree with you there is not an underlining separation between the two (church and state). As you read the language of the constitution you notice that there are religious foundations at the root of this document. It is evident that Religion was very important to the founding fathers because they included religious principles in all of the country’s important documents. In George Washington’s Farewell speech he stated that morals and religion both play a major role in politics, law, and government. He stated that without religion it would be hard to trust anyone who swears under an oath of the law. Washington also made the point that a good politician in a position such as leadership should possess good morals and a religious foundation. Washington began to close the speech with saying that he did his absolute best in leading the country in his two terms that he served. He stated that the whole purpose of his farewell address was to leave a record behind that the country could refer to in the future if these issues arise. In your essay you could have addressed the current relationship between church and state in politics. Overall this was a well written essay, you did an excellent job.